Spoiler Alert: This list contains spoilers for House of the Dragon Season 3, Episode 6.The fight for the Iron Throne continues in House of the Dragon Season 3. Set about 200 years before Game of Thrones—specifically 172 years before the birth of Daenerys Targaryen (Emilia Clarke)—the series chronicles the events that led to the decline of House Targaryen, culminating in the infamous war of succession known as the Dance of the Dragons. What begins as a dispute over the line of succession eventually spirals into one of the bloodiest conflicts in Westerosi history.

Over the course of the series, House of the Dragon begins as an internal conflict over who should inherit the Iron Throne after the death of King Viserys I Targaryen (Paddy Considine). Although Viserys names Rhaenyra Targaryen (Milly Alcock and Emma D’Arcy) his heir, her claim is challenged after he marries her closest confidante, Alicent Hightower (Emily Carey and Olivia Cooke), and fathers sons of his own. As each side continues to take the lives of the other’s family members, this family feud erupts into a realm-shattering civil war — pinnacling in the greatest battles of House of the Dragon, ranked.

7

Shipbreaker Bay

Season 1, Episode 10 “The Black Queen”

Image via HBO

Shipbreaker Bay proves that bloodshed and family grudges are generational—especially when young royals are involved. Sent as Rhaenyra’s envoy, Prince Lucerys Velaryon (Elliot Grihault) arrives at Storm’s End to secure Lord Borros Baratheon’s (Roger Evans) allegiance, only to find Prince Aemond Targaryen (Ewan Mitchell) already there. Still consumed by the childhood incident that cost him his left eye, Aemond pursues Lucerys through a violent storm atop the colossal Vhagar, while Lucerys flees on his much smaller dragon, Arrax.

The chase is hopelessly one-sided, but Lucerys uses the storm and narrow cliffs to evade the massive Vhagar. Everything unravels when the terrified Arrax disobeys Lucerys and breathes fire at the ancient dragon. Enraged, Vhagar ignores Aemond’s commands and tears Arrax apart with Lucerys still aboard. Horrified by what he has unleashed, Aemond realizes he never intended to kill his nephew. Lucerys’ death becomes the spark that ignites the Targaryen civil war and the infamous vow of vengeance: “An eye for an eye, a son for a son.”

6

Cargyll vs. Cargyll

Season 2, Episode 2 “Rhaenyra the Cruel”

Image via HBO

Cargyll vs. Cargyll is one of the most tragic duels in House of the Dragon because it never should have happened. Twin brothers Ser Erryk Cargyll (Elliott Tittensor) serves Queen Rhaenyra, while Ser Arryk Cargyll (Luke Tittensor) remains loyal to King Aegon II (Tom Glynn-Carney). In retaliation for Prince Jaehaerys’ murder, orchestrated by Daemon (Matt Smith), Ser Criston Cole (Fabien Frankel) orders Arryk on a near-suicidal mission: infiltrate Dragonstone by impersonating his twin, enter Rhaenyra’s chambers, and assassinate her. Arryk initially refuses, but Criston exploits his sense of duty and shames him into accepting.

By the time Arryk reaches Rhaenyra’s chambers, Erryk arrives to stop him, forcing the brothers into a brutal sword fight. Erryk ultimately kills Arryk, but the grief proves too much. Devastated by the fact that he has slain his own brother, he takes his own life not a second later. The mission ends with no victors, only two needless deaths that accomplish nothing beyond further fueling the war. It also just goes to show Criston’s recklessness, poor strategic vision, and his tendency to act based on past grudges.

5

Fall of King’s Landing

Season 3, Episode 2 “Queen’s Landing”

Image via HBO

Although there is not much bloodshed, the Fall of King’s Landing in House of the Dragon proves that strategy can triumph over brute force. When Aemond and Ser Criston Cole leave King’s Landing for Harrenhal with Vhagar, the capital is left heavily unprotected. Meanwhile, Alicent stays behind, already determined to surrender the city to Rhaenyra, even ordering the guards to put down their weapons before Rhaenyra and Daemon arrive on their dragons.

The only major confrontation occurs when Rhaenyra and Daemon encounter Green loyalists, whom Daemon swiftly kills. Even when more troops arrive to challenge them, they are surprised when Daemon’s former City Watch, now known as the Gold Cloaks, turns up to support Rhaenyra’s claim. As for Aemond, although he successfully burns Harrenhal, his victory is short-lived when one of Ser Simon’s sons strikes him through a gap in his armor, leaving him bleeding heavily and injured.

4

Butcher’s Ball

Season 3, Episode 6 “Faceless Men”

Image via HBO

The Butcher’s Ball uses such a deceptively simple trap that it’s baffling Criston and the remnants of the Green army fall for it. Stranded in the Riverlands, Criston and his men stumble upon a camp where everyone appears to be dead. As they investigate, the corpses suddenly spring back to life, revealing they had been playing dead as part of a carefully planned ambush. Just when the Greens think they have regained control, they find themselves surrounded by forces led by the young Ser Oscar Tully (Archie Barnes) and Ser Garibald Grey (Mark Oldridge).

Realizing death is only moments away, Criston still tries to argue that continuing the battle will only claim more lives. Garibald refuses, reminding him that House Tully has already vowed to build a sept from traitors’ bones. Roddy the Ruin (Tommy Flanagan) declares he would rather die with a sword in hand than surrender. Criston offers single combat, but his request is denied. Instead, Alysanne Blackwood (Annie Shapero) kills him with three arrows, triggering the massacre that follows immediately.

3

The Battle of Rook’s Rest

Season 2, Episode 4 “The Red Queen and the Gold”

Image via HBO

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The Battle of Rook’s Rest is Season 2’s biggest heartbreak of a battle. With Criston Cole leading 1,400–1,500 troops to surround Rook’s Rest and intimidate Lord Staunton (Michael Elwyn), Rhaenys Targaryen (Eve Best) takes Meleys into battle to defend one of the Blacks’ strongest allies. Even when Aegon joins the fight on Sunfyre, he struggles against Meleys, with Rhaenys steadily gaining the upper hand against the inexperienced king and his younger dragon.

The course of the battle changes instantly when Aemond arrives on Vhagar, blindsiding everyone by unleashing dragonfire on Meleys and Rhaenys—but also on Aegon and Sunfyre, severely burning the king and crashing to the ground. From there, the fight becomes hopelessly one-sided, as Vhagar’s sheer size gives him a decisive advantage over Meleys after a long, hard-fought, yet clearly mismatched battle. Rhaenys, the Queen Who Never Was, dies alongside her dragon, while Aegon’s catastrophic injuries leave him unfit to continue ruling, allowing Aemond to assume power as Prince Regent instead.

2

War for the Stepstones

Season 1, Episode 3 “Second of His Name”

Image via HBO

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The War for the Stepstones was a conflict over control of the Stepstones, waged by Prince Daemon and Corlys Velaryon (Steve Toussaint) against the Triarchy, a confederation of the Free Cities led by the vicious Craghas Drahar (Daniel Scott-Smith). Lasting nine years, the war dragged on largely because of King Viserys’ complacency. Fearful of “ruining the peace,” he refused to intervene and instead focused his attention on his new son from his marriage to Alicent.

Fed up with the Triarchy hiding in the caves and frustrated by his brother’s inaction, Prince Daemon marched into the Stepstones alone carrying a white flag, seemingly signaling his surrender. The ruse lures Crabfeeder and his troops out into the open, only for Caraxes to rain fire down on them while Corlys’ forces charge in to wipe out the remaining soldiers. Amid the chaos, Daemon pursues Crabfeeder into the caves before emerging with his body split in half, bringing the brutal war to an end.

1

The Battle of the Gullet

Season 3, Episode 1 “Salt and Sea, Fire and Blood”

The Battle of the Gullet is arguably House of the Dragon‘s most unforgiving battle to date. First, there’s the factor of it being a naval war, meaning the Blacks and the Triarchy must also contend with Mother Nature as they steer their ships through danger. There’s also the Triarchy’s massive 90-warship fleet, which is divided into two pincers to blind the Velaryon ships by taking advantage of the morning sun’s glare.

But most dangerously, because of the Triarchy’s history with Daemon in Season 1, they now know exactly how to counter dragons. By fashioning heavy scorpion crossbows equipped with grappling hooks, they can bring down even the largest dragons. This weapon ultimately takes down Prince Jacaerys (Harry Collett) and Vermax, with the dragon dying from blood loss while Jacaerys is struck by arrows while struggling in the water. The battle only brings more losses than victories, destroying two wealthy port towns and, more importantly, taking Queen Rhaenyra’s son—a loss that shapes her rule afterward.

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House of the Dragon

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Release Date

August 21, 2022

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HBO

Showrunner

George R.R. Martin

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Directors

Clare Kilner, Geeta Patel

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• 
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  Fabien Frankel

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  Ser Criston Cole

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Two weeks after finishing as runners-up on ‘Love Island USA’ season 8, Carl Schmidt and Aniya Harvey have shared an update on where their relationship stands. During a recent appearance on ‘Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen,’ the pair revealed they are not officially boyfriend and girlfriend, despite saying their connection has continued to grow since leaving the villa. Carl also weighed in on the criticism surrounding KC’s comments about Aniya during Casa Amor.

Related: Issa Wrap! ‘Love Island USA’ Star Clarke Carraway Announces Decision To End Relationship With Taylor Williams

Carl & Aniya Share Relationship Update After The Villa

‘Love Island USA’ Season 8 runner-ups, Carl and Aniya, joined winners Trinity and Bruce on a recent episode of ‘Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen,’ where the couples reflected on life after the villa. While Trinity and Bruce confirmed they are officially dating, viewers were still curious about where Carl and Aniya stand.

When Andy Cohen asked about their relationship status, Carl said the two are intentionally taking things slow after only knowing each other for a short time.

“No, so we are not officially boyfriend-girlfriend yet,” he said.

Carl explained that because he entered the villa during Casa Amor, the pair only had about two weeks together before the finale.

“I honestly feel after two weeks, the connection has just been really strong, and we just feel really, really happy. We just kind of want to keep rolling that as long as we can,” he added.

Carl Weighs In On KC’s Comments About Aniya

Before finding a connection with Carl, Aniya was originally coupled up with KC. Their relationship unraveled during Casa Amor after KC explored a connection with Tierra, whom he ultimately chose to recouple with. Aniya was left single until Carl returned to the villa following Casa Amor. The two quickly built a connection that carried them to the finale. Tensions between KC and Aniya escalated during the show’s Movie Night episode. Islanders watched clips revealing what their partners had been saying and doing during Casa Amor.

During ‘Watch What Happens Live,’ a fan asked Carl about KC’s comments regarding Aniya. Carl said he would not defend everything KC said, but suggested some of the remarks were likely “boy locker room talk.” He also noted that spending weeks constantly wearing microphones can make Islanders forget they’re being recorded at all times.

Social Media Reacts

Fans quickly flooded social media with reactions after Carl and Aniya’s relationship update.

Instagram user @thereall.lakey wrote, “They only knew each for 2 weeks, that very right to take it slow. Yall don’t know how to date. You have to be in the talking stage getting to know each other first before you get in a relationship. Ain’t nobody finna keep riding into relationships to keep falling out of it!”

Another Instagram user @heavenleighdes wrote, “they be wanting these people to hop in a relationship soon as they meet 😂😂😂😂”

While Instagram user @shadyladytree wrote, “Last night was Carl and Anita’s first time seeing each other since the show ended. They don’t have a relationship 🥴”

Instagram user @luvvaskye wrote, “more like lust island 🙄🙄”

Another Instagram user @asutoras wrote, “no chemistry”

While Instagram user @thehannahmwale wrote, “if they end up like Nic and Olandria imma be disappointed ngl”

Instagram user @tifftiffrk wrote, “Carl Is real ad for everything he said!!! They are taking things slow and also speaking for KC because that’s how men talk when women aren’t around but a lot of ppl don’t realize or think it won’t happen. KC and Anita were not exclusive and both had doubts whether anyone wants to admit it or not! 🤷🏽‍♀️ kudos to Carl!”

Another Instagram user @acireluv wrote, “Yes 👏🏽 thank you Carl because it wasn’t that deep for a hate train on KC 😭”

While Instagram user @ajaneetimore wrote, “Now this is a PR relationship”

Related: ‘Love Island USA’ Star Nic Vansteenberghe Claps Back As He Breaks His Silence Following Split From Olandria Carthen

Claressa Shields is throwing her support behind ‘Baddies’ star Big Lex ahead of her highly anticipated boxing match against fellow cast member Tesehki. After the undisputed boxing champion shared footage of the pair training together, fans quickly flooded social media with reactions, debating whether Shields’ coaching will be enough to help Big Lex compete with Tesehki.

Related: Not The One! Claressa Shields Sends Heated Message After Interview Had Fans Side-Eyeing (PHOTO)

Claressa Shields Says She’s Riding With The Underdog

The upcoming boxing match between ‘Baddies’ stars Big Lex and Tesehki has become one of the most talked-about storylines among fans, with many eager to see the two settle the long-running debate over who packs the harder punch.

On Friday, July 31, Shields shared a video on Instagram showing Big Lex working through drills, combinations, and footwork inside the boxing ring. Alongside the video, Shields explained why she decided to work with Big Lex despite many fans favoring Tesehki.

“I saw the polls. Majority picked Tesehki to beat Big Lex, so I went with the underdog,” Shields wrote. “I put Big Lex through some hard training and showed her some of my best GWOAT moves. She is ready.”

Shields’ endorsement immediately sparked debate online, with fans weighing in on whether the extra training could change the outcome of the fight.

Social Media Reacts

Fans wasted no time sharing their opinions in The Shade Room Teens’ comment section after Shields revealed she was Team Big Lex.

Instagram user @jakylaaa wrote, “honestly can’t say who gon win this one but I’m here for it !! 🍿🥤☺️”

Another Instagram user @myasiaasimone wrote, “she still can’t fw Tesehki 😂😂😂😂😂”

While Instagram user @gmac4life wrote, “Tesehki Tesehki… the sister of Chrisean Rock ?! She’s teaming for no reason 😂😂😂”

Instagram user @s.sneakyyy wrote, “Claressa just don’t like Tesehki a*** that’s the only reason why 😂😂😂😂”

Another Instagram user @tsx2__ wrote, “The only thing that lex got over Tesehki is reach and height.”

While Instagram user @xoziya.__ wrote, “Lex gone get more hits in and Tesehki is doing more damage idc argue with ya mama”

Instagram user @2valid_.Dora wrote, “Tesehki might as well ask Laila Ali to train her 🤷‍♀️”

Another Instagram user @nyahhh_j wrote, “Why does Claressa think she’s the Baddies Connoisseur”

While Instagram user @allhailteezus wrote, “she not gonna use none of these moves in the ring trust me 😂😂😂”

Tesehki Has Support From Chrisean Rock Ahead Of The Fight

While Shields has stepped into Big Lex’s corner, Tesehki has received encouragement from her younger sister, Chrisean Rock. In a viral video shared online, Chrisean invited Tesehki to train with her in Baltimore ahead of the fight, saying she would love to help her prepare for the matchup. “I’m glad she’s doing this lane,” Chrisean said, adding that her sister “could really fight.” The support comes after Chrisean also entered the boxing world, making her amateur boxing debut earlier this year.

@clips_ofdrama

#fyp #foryou #tesehki #tesehki #foryou

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Related: Oop! Blueface Alleges Chrisean Rock Posted Message Calling Chrisean Jr. His Son As Nevaeh Akira Reacts To Their Cozy Link-Up

Video games can deliver a whole range of intended experiences, from relaxing and wholesome content in Animal Crossing: New Horizons to terrifying frights in Resident Evil 7: Biohazard. However, one of the most timeless aspects of the medium is boss fights, which pit players against an extra-powerful enemy where they must showcase what they have learned while adapting to the moveset of the opponent.

A boss fight can make or break a game. That is why this list will rank the ten greatest video game boss fights of all time based on aspects such as memorability, originality, difficulty, thematic relevance, moveset, unique mechanics, skill testing, narrative stakes, fan opinion, critical acclaim, and overall quality. From the ones with a massive build-up to the boss fights that happen out of nowhere, each one brings a glorious and tense feeling, which is why gamers love the medium so much.

10

Sans – ‘Undertale’ (2015)

Image via Toby Fox

Almost every single boss fight on this list comes from a AAA blockbuster title, except for one indie game that proves this underrated genre is home to some thrilling boss fights. Undertale is one of the most recognized indie titles of all time, and while it has many bosses, none are better than the final fight in the Genocide storyline against Sans.

After the player decides to kill every character in the game, their final opponent is Sans, who is undoubtedly the hardest boss in the game. His battle is intentionally unfair, from attacking the player while in their inventory to dodging attacks, which no other enemy does, to removing invincibility frames; Sans is the ultimate punishment for the player in Undertale if they select the Genocide route.

9

Volo – ‘Pokémon Legends: Arceus’ (2022)

Image via Game Freak

Pokémon unexpectedly has some incredible boss fights, such as Whitney, Cynthia, and Red, but the one that makes this list is probably pretty unexpected. Volo is presumably an ancestor of Pokémon Legends: Arceus, who spends most of his time helping the player until the finale of the game, where he challenges the player in what is easily the franchise’s most challenging fight.

Pokémon is a series, and the game can be hand-holdy, but this boss fight subverts those expectations through the most difficult fight in the franchise. Volo’s first team is essentially the same as Cynthia’s, and after winning that, the players fight against Giratina’s two forms, all without healing or changing teams. It is a gruelling and unfair challenge that can only be passed using potions and more than a few revives, proving Pokémon Legends: Arceus was a step in the right direction for Pokémon.

8

Phalanx – ‘Shadow of the Colossus’ (2005)

Image via Team Ico

Some games have good boss fights, and then other video games are only boss fights, with the main purpose being to defeat the challenging enemies. Shadow of the Colossus has the player killing 16 Colossi to revive their loved one, and one of these gargantuan beings they must kill is Phalanx, a massive serpent flying around the dunes of the desert.

There are so many boss fights in this game that are deserving of making this list, but Phalanx is arguably the best because of how it subverts expectations. It never once attacks the player, with gamers needing to chase it down on horseback, leap onto the massive creature and scale the beast while slowly chipping away at its health bar. This grand, sweeping cinematic boss fight is a spectacle to behold, but its end is a bleak and depressing note when players learn they killed a peaceful, majestic being.

Image via Konami

Hideo Kojima is a legendary game designer, and his Metal Gear Solid franchise is known for having some of the best boss fights, with two of them being on this list. Let’s start with Psycho Mantis from the first game. This psychic enemy pushes the character and player to the limits by levitating furniture, controlling allies, and breaking the fourth wall.

The boss fight in the game itself isn’t anything special, but it becomes such a memorable experience because of the way it breaks the fourth wall. Psycho Mantis can read Solid Snake’s mind, which is achieved by reading the memory card on the console, highlighting what the player has previously done. Metal Gear Solid goes one step further with the player needing to switch controller ports, so Psycho Mantis can no longer read your movements. It’s an ingenious and creative way to blend gameplay with real life that results in an unforgettable gaming moment.

6

Malenia, Blade of Miquella – ‘Elden Ring’ (2022)

Image via Bandai Namco Entertainment

FromSoftware and soulslike games in general are known for their challenging combat and infamous boss battles, earning two spots on this list. The first is Malenia, Blade of Miquella from Elden Ring. With so many boss fights, it was hard to choose one, but the honor had to go to the most popular boss, Malenia, a demigod rotting from within who made so many players rage-quit the game.

Elden Ring is all about dodging, parrying, blocking, and learning the enemy’s movements, and that is tested to the extreme with the Malenia boss fight. She demands frame-perfect timing that is nearly impossible to do repeatedly, not to mention she can heal after landing an attack even if it is blocked. Malenia is a definitive Elden Ring boss that is the reason why so many players love the soulslike genre.

5

Ganondorf – ‘The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time’ (1998)

Image via Nintendo

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The Legend of Zelda franchise has some fun boss fights like Koloktos, and while that is more mechanically fun, it doesn’t have the same weight as the final fight against Ganondorf/Ganon in The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. This three-tiered boss fight starts with an energy-deflecting round that evolves into a dramatic escape from the castle into a final battle against his pig demon form in Hyrule Field.

The first section is the successful first encounter, but the escape from Hyrule Castle is just as gripping. But the epic scale and dramatic weight of the fight in Hyrule Field is the culmination of one of the greatest video games of the century. Ocarina of Time is perfect in many ways, and the final fight against Ganondorf is a thematic conclusion with an operatic finale that feels like a symphony of triumph.

4

Vergil – ‘Devil May Cry 3: Dante’s Awakening’ (2005)

Image via Capcom

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One of the best things about the Devil May Cry franchise is that there are plenty of recurring boss fights with everyone’s favorite villain, Vergil, especially in Devil May Cry 3: Dante’s Awakening. Vergil isn’t just an enemy, but the brother of Dante, the protagonist, making every encounter a narrative duel of two familiar characters wondering if this will be the last time they face off.

While Vergil’s fights in the fifth game are also incredible, the final fight against him in Devil May Cry 3 is simply outstanding. Vergil is the quintessential rival boss, who reappears to match Dante’s chaotic style with calculated moves. By mirroring the player’s moveset, Vergil becomes a familiar boss fight that forces the player to understand the gameplay and controls more thoroughly.

3

Mr. Freeze – ‘Batman: Arkham City’ (2011)

Image via Rocksteady Studios

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Batman is a character with many iconic villains in his rogue’s gallery, and they are brought to vivid life in Batman: Arkham City, specifically Mr. Freeze. After wandering into a frozen GCPD laboratory, Batman must face off against Mr. Freeze in a lethal game of cat and mouse where the player must use their wits, gadgets, and surroundings to defeat the ominous presence.

Most boss fights have a specific pattern and dedicated puzzle or combat solution to take them down, but not Mr. Freeze. Direct confrontation leads to instant death, meaning the player must use everything they have learned in a mini sandbox room to defeat him. This approach makes every playthrough unique, and with endless possibilities, it makes the audience feel like Batman solving a problem through detective work. Batman: Arkham City has many other great fights, but Mr. Freeze is the top of the list for a reason, proving why this is the best Batman video game.

2

Isshin, The Sword Saint – ‘Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice’ (2019)

Image via FromSoftware

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This list mentioned that there would be two FromSoftware soulslike games, and Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice earned the second spot with Isshin, The Sword Saint. The sword combat in this game is remarkable, and this boss fight shows that off firsthand, but also boasts a couple of other tiers where he wields a spear and a pistol.

A lot of video game bosses have some sort of gimmick to make them fresh and distinct from others, but Isshin is simply a final exam where players need to use everything they learned. Deflecting, counters, reversals — players need to be in top shape, with nothing but mastery to take down Isshin. This final boss is the best way to end Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, making the last battle feel like an earned win.

Image via Konami

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Psycho Mantis from the first Metal Gear Solid was fun and unique, but there is one better boss in the series, and that is The Boss from Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater. Once Snake’s mentor, The Boss supposedly defected; the twist is that she did so as part of her mission. When a nuclear warhead was fired, she takes the blame, trading her legacy and pride for the safety of her nation. It is fitting that the greatest boss fight in video game history is named The Boss, but there is more poetic and thematic relevance to this character.

This fight was the climax of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, and the buildup was immaculate, making players dread the moment they have to kill Snake’s mentor. Outside the narrative perfection, it is also technically impressive and engaging, promoting the hand-to-hand combat the two created and stealth mechanics that are so important. It ends in a poetic climax where the burden of killing The Boss is taken from Snake and given directly to the player, concluding in a tragically beautiful final moment that highlights why Metal Gear Solid 3 is a fantastic action video game.

As conversations surrounding Nolan Wells continue to unfold online, another familiar name has entered the chat. This time, Officer Tatum is calling attention to a recent interview between Don Lemon and Wells’ mother, Christine Wonsley, claiming one particular moment left him with more questions than answers.

RELATED: Ms. Rachel Shares Her Thoughts On Investigation Into Death Of Nolan Xavier Wells

Officer Tatum Calls Out Don Lemon & Christine Wonsley

In a post shared to Instagram, Officer Tatum uploaded a clip from Don Lemon’s recent interview with Nolan Wells’ mother, Christine Wonsley. Alongside the video, Tatum wrote, “WOW: Don Lemon tried not to say my name, but Nolan’s mother made sure to say ‘Brandon Tatum’ in full. Yet neither of them addressed the actual facts from our interviews, including Warren’s claim that he told Nolan’s mother he had Nolan’s phone.”

Tatum went on to accuse both Lemon and Wonsley of avoiding key questions, adding, “They keep naming me, attacking my character and pivoting, but they refuse to answer the questions that matter. Why?” In the clip, Lemon refers to an “officer” and says he “hates mentioning his name,” before Wonsley quickly identifies who he’s talking about, responding, “I’m not even gonna comment on Brandon Tatum. No.” Tatum then cuts back to himself, telling viewers he found the interaction “suspicious” and questioning why his name continues to come up without what he believes are answers to the issues he’s raised.

Why Officer Tatum Keeps Coming Up

Officer Brandon Tatum, a former police officer turned conservative commentator, has closely followed the Nolan Xavier Wells case. Throughout the investigation, Tatum has shared his analysis on social media and interviewed people connected to the case, including Nolan’s friends, Warren Hudson, and Tracestin Shepherd. His coverage has made him a recurring voice in the ongoing public conversation, often drawing both support and criticism for his commentary and interviews.

More Voices Continue To Weigh In On Nolan Wells’ Case

The conversation surrounding Nolan Wells’ case continues to grow. And, more public figures and those connected to the investigation are sharing their perspectives. Most recently, Ms. Rachel weighed in on Threads, telling her more than 2.3 million followers that she believes the investigation “would have been different if Nolan Wells were white and his friends were Black,” adding that Wells and his family “deserve justice.”

Her comments come as Nolan’s friends, Warren Hudson and Tracestin Shepherd, have also continued speaking publicly. Hudson recently denied allegations that content was deleted from Nolan’s phone. Meanwhile, Shepherd said he feels “backstabbed” and unfairly blamed by the Black community. At the same time, attorney Benjamin Crump pushed back after Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves accused him and Rev. Al Sharpton of fueling division. Moreover, reports revealed that Wells’ friends received spoliation letters.

RELATED: Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves Says Ben Crump & Rev. Al Sharpton Are “Stoking Division” & Are To Blame For Threats Amid Nolan Wells Investigation

Gangster movies have long been one of cinema’s most alluring and intriguing subgenres. Some immerse themselves in the callous grit of gangland brutality while others flaunt an enrapturing sense of style that illustrates the luxury, glamour, and status that comes with a life of organized crime, but all the greatest and most perfect gangster movies are anchored by their thematic interest in issues of morality, violence, power, and opportunity.

Here, we have Hollywood classics that use the ambition and intensity of crime cinema to present barbed visions of the volatility of the American dream and international masterpieces that revel in an arresting sense of grounded and visceral realism. These gangster movies are genuinely perfect from start to finish. In addition to being defining triumphs of the genre, many of these pictures have also come to be accepted among the greatest and most iconic movies ever made.

‘Once Upon a Time in America’ (1984)

Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

An epic with a runtime of almost four hours, Once Upon a Time in America is the ultimate parable of the misrepresentation of the American dream. Unfolding with a non-linear plot, it follows a group of Jewish gangsters from their humble beginnings as ambitious youths in a New York ghetto to their prominent standing in the city’s underworld, and even to an old age of paranoia, betrayal, nostalgia, and remorse.

Under Sergio Leone’s astute direction, the film captures distinctly different tones with each of its timelines. Further complemented by Ennio Morricone’s masterful score, Tonino Delli Colli’s gorgeous and evocative cinematography, and a cohort of incredible performances, Once Upon a Time in America has overcome several complexities in its initial release. It is now regarded as one of the greatest crime epics of all time and a unique, emotional descent into a life of lawlessness.

‘The Departed’ (2006)

Image via Warner Bros.

Few directors are as celebrated for their contributions to any genre of cinema as Martin Scorsese. One of his most defining triumphs, and the picture that saw him finally win an Academy Award for Best Director, is 2006’s gritty thriller, The Departed, which follows a tense cat-and-mouse game between a mole in the Boston Police Department and an undercover cop in an organized crime syndicate.

The Departed stands among the greatest crime movies Hollywood has produced in recent decades. The Oscar-winning gem is defined by the hard-edged grit Scorsese imbues all his crime pictures with, a magnetic sense of propulsive storytelling and editing, and a litany of astounding performances from the ensemble cast. Its relentless high-stakes suspense presents a raw vision of morality, duplicity, and desperation that makes for one of the defining feats of 21st-century cinema thus far.

‘Angels with Dirty Faces’ (1938)

Image via Warner Bros.

The gangster movies of Old Hollywood may not have had the license to be as graphic as their modern counterparts, but the era still produced many timeless hits, including 1938’s Angels with Dirty Faces. This powerful story of morality, influence, and redemption centers on Father Connolly’s (Pat O’Brien) efforts to guide a group of impressionable youths away from the allure of Rocky Sullivan (James Cagney), a notorious gangster who was once his childhood friend.

Between the two men, the film explores life trajectories with piercing poignancy, illustrating how their lives turned out so drastically. It acknowledges the allure of crime as a pathway to luxury, status, and power, while highlighting Connolly’s complex internal angst through his sorrow for Rocky and his aspiration to steer the boys away from sharing his fate. Anchored by one of the greatest endings in cinematic history, Angels with Dirty Faces is a timeless masterpiece of crime cinema and an underappreciated pioneer of gangster movie tropes that remain in use to this day.

‘Miller’s Crossing’ (1990)

Image via 20th Century Studios

An underrated gem in the stunning filmography of the Coen Brothers, Miller’s Crossing sees the filmmakers implement their trademark blend of cynical wit, offbeat style, and intense character-focused tension in gangster cinema. Functioning as a bleak character study, it follows icy mob strategist Tom Reagan (Gabriel Byrne) as he navigates an escalating gang war amid Prohibition-era America while adhering to his interplay of personal principle, survival, and shrouded loyalty.

What it lacks in the scope of other, more epic crime films, it more than makes up for with its concentrated, intimate focus on Reagan’s shifting circumstances. Only strengthened by its poetic and biting dialogue, gorgeous noir visuals, and Carter Burwell’s deftly melancholic score, Miller’s Crossing is an engrossing subversion of traditional gangster drama. This emotionally compelling plunge into a jaded protagonist’s peril remains in focus even as the labyrinthian nature of the growing conflict intensifies.

‘Animal Kingdom’ (2010)

Image via Madman Entertainment

Gritty, realistic, and raw, Animal Kingdom cuts down any semblance of romanticism and glory that can surround crime cinema. Here, director David Michôd emphasizes a pervasive air of dread through the story of a crime family’s self-inflicted downfall. Following the death of his mother, teenager Joshua (James Frecheville) is taken in by his uncles and grandmother and exposed to their life of criminal ambition and brutality. Torn between mounting pressure from his besieged family and the offering of help from a cop, Josh struggles to navigate a volatile and escalating situation.

Inspired by the actions of the Pettingill crime family in Melbourne, Animal Kingdom is fundamentally an exercise in ferocious authenticity. However, Michôd imbues it with complexity and Greek tragedy to conjure a powerful sense of resonance through its meditations on morality, ambition, and violence. Aided by a plethora of visceral, note-perfect performances and a razor-sharp screenplay, it represents the very best of modern Australian cinema and stands among the finest crime movies of the 21st century.

‘White Heat’ (1949)

Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

Another gem from Hollywood’s golden era to thrive off the back of a lead performance from James Cagney, White Heat is a landmark gangster movie from a time when the genre had lost its punch following the introduction of the Hays Code. Instead of delivering a spectacle of grim violence or complex morality, it excels as a heart-racing descent into the unstable psychology of Cody Jarrett, a maniacal criminal who breaks out of jail and rallies his crew to carry out a heist.

The erratic volatility of Cagney’s Jarrett, who oscillates violently between his disturbing penchant for violence and equally disturbing adoration of his mother, imbues the film with an unyielding, ferocious intensity. Complimented by one of the most iconic climaxes in gangster cinema, White Heat stands tall to this day as a harrowing deep-dive into criminal psychosis that grapples with the unpredictable terror and white-knuckle tension of gangland amorality.

‘Pulp Fiction’ (1994)

Image via Miramax Films

It is a treacherous path to make a gangster movie feel cool, slick, and stylish without also wrestling with the unbearable psychological duress of a life in organized crime, but if a movie is to take that approach, it doesn’t hurt to be imbued with the panache and punch of Pulp Fiction. A sprawling, non-linear epic that contains everything from atmospheric suspense to hysterical comedy, it follows the intersecting lives of several people involved in L.A.’s criminal underworld.

A defining smash hit of ’90s cinema, it soars off the back of Quentin Tarantino’s intoxicating trademark style, a medley of wit, pop-culture references, and razor-sharp storytelling prowess that enthralls from its opening shot to its final moments. Its litany of iconic scenes, lines, and characters is testament enough to its greatness as a cinematic masterpiece. Moreover, its brilliance as a gangster thriller resides in its subversive boldness, tonal control, glorious unpredictability, and underappreciated analysis of morality in the criminal underworld.

‘City of God’ (2002)

Image via Miramax

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Few movies of any genre are as fiercely impressionable and savagely confronting as City of God. The plot presents a harrowing descent into crime in Rio de Janeiro through the eyes of two childhood friends who take drastically different paths as they reach adolescence. A loose adaptation of Paulo Lins’s semi-autobiographical novel, it unfolds as Rocket (Alexandre Rodrigues) struggles to pursue his dream of becoming a professional photographer and escaping the crime-riddled favela while Li’l Zé (Leandro Firmino) becomes a local crime lord who rules through sadism, brutality, and fear.

Defined by its grim realism, City of God is an unflinching depiction of Brazilian crime that scars viewers with its conviction and ruthlessly confronting violence. It presents the ugly savagery of favela gangs, even going so far as to illustrate how children are both complicit in and victims of the violent cycle of power and evil. A quintessential crime masterpiece, City of God strips gangster cinema of its lavish allure with its exploration of systemic, inescapable poverty.

‘The Godfather’ (1972) & ‘The Godfather Part II’ (1974)

Both The Godfather and The Godfather Part II stand at the pinnacle of cinematic brilliance in their own right. Both films have endured for over 50 years as absorbing stories of morality, corruption, and power bolstered by stunning filmmaking craft, thematically rich drama, and a litany of unforgettable performances. The 1972 original follows a difficult transition of power within the Corleone crime family, while the sequel explores Michael’s (Al Pacino) ambition to expand his empire as well as a young Vito’s (Robert De Niro) rise up the ranks of organized crime in early 20th-century New York.

Whereas many previous gangster movies flaunted an air of anti-hero pulpiness, The Godfather saw Francis Ford Coppola reinvent the genre as a platform for epic tragedy that explores the allure and toxicity of the American dream through organized crime. The two movies present over six hours of faultless cinematic mastery, with every single discipline of filmmaking, from Gordon Willis’s shadowy cinematography to Nino Rota’s iconic score, executed with majesty, precision, and timeless impact.

‘Goodfellas’ (1990)

Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

“As far back as I can remember, I always wanted to be a gangster.” The opening narration of Goodfellas is a perfect illustration of the picture that follows, an enrapturing exploration of life in the mafia that captures both the allure of organized crime and the terrifying paranoia that comes with it. Revered as being Martin Scorsese’s defining masterpiece, the biographical drama follows Henry Hill (Ray Liotta) as he rises from his impoverished upbringing to become a major player in his neighborhood’s crime branch. However, the life he always dreamed of achieving fast becomes a waking nightmare.

Here, we have kinetic narrative pacing, Thelma Schoonmaker’s outstanding editing, a brilliant soundtrack, and stunning camerawork that includes one of the greatest long takes the medium has ever seen. Goodfellas uses every tool at its disposal to immerse viewers in Hill’s tumultuous rise and fall as a gangster. It exudes style and flamboyance without ever sacrificing striking realism, a feat that makes it not only one of the greatest crime movies of all time, but one of the finest achievements in cinematic history as well.

Shopping Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale section is a little like treasure hunting. Sure, there are thousands of markdowns to sift through, but every now and then I stumble upon a piece so good it goes straight into my cart before I can overthink it. This week, Nordstrom quietly dropped more than 7,000 new deals, and let’s just say my wallet didn’t stand a chance.

After far too much scrolling (so you don’t have to), I narrowed my favorites down to the 13 hidden gems I’d actually spend my own money on. Inside, you’ll find everything from Levi’s Easy Dad jeans and adidas Sambas sneakers and JW PEI totes — all at seriously good prices. These deals start at just $23, making it way too easy for me to justify hitting “checkout.”

13 Hidden Nordstrom Fashion Finds I Added Straight to My Cart

1. My Favorite: My wardrobe lives and dies by great basics, so this $23 white tee was an instant add to cart. It’s clean, classic and the kind of piece I’ll style with everything from relaxed denim to tailored trousers — was $35, now $23!

2. Timeless Trench: A belted cropped trench coat has been on my fall wish list, and seeing this one marked down $66 made it an instant add to cart. It’s timeless enough to wear for years but still feels fresh thanks to its shorter silhouette — was $199, now $133!

3. Everyday Sparkle: I reach for a dainty pendant necklace almost every day, so finding one this chic for $23 felt like a no-brainer. The sparkling cubic zirconia and delicate gold chain give it that timeless, expensive-looking feel — was $35, now $23!

4. Sleep in Style: I’ve been wanting to upgrade my old PJs, and this matching pajama set feels like the perfect excuse. It’s polished enough for slow weekend mornings, cozy enough for movie nights and is now 34% off — was $85, now $56!

5. Cashmere Crush: If I’m splurging on anything, it’s a short-sleeve cashmere cardigan I’ll wear season after season. The soft knit, subtle puff sleeves and $50 savings made this one impossible to ignore — was $149, now $99!

Related: The 17 Best Under-$100 Fashion Finds in Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale can be overwhelming, especially when there are thousands of deals competing for your attention. Instead of scrolling through page after page of markdowns, I zeroed in on the under-$100 finds that actually deserve a spot in your closet. These are the pieces that combine timeless style, everyday versatility and impressive savings. […]

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6. Worth the Hype: I don’t say this lightly, but Bombas ankle socks completely live up to the hype. They’re soft, breathable and cushioned in all the right places, which is exactly why I’d buy another six-pack — was $84, now $63!

7. Levi’s Forever: Whenever I’m shopping for denim, I almost always check Levi’s jeans first. This Easy Dad style looks just as chic with a simple white tee as it does with a cashmere cardigan — was $110, now $73!

8. Pop of Color: I’ve been wanting to add a red leather shoulder bag to my collection, and The Sak’s Melrose one immediately caught my eye. It’s timeless enough to wear for years but bold enough to make every outfit more interesting — was $159, now $107!

9. Shoe Crush: It only took one look at these Dolce Vita suede mules for them to land in my cart. The rich brown suede and sculptural kitten heel are exactly the kind of details I can’t resist (especially come fall) — was $135, now $90!

10. Pilates Pick: I’ve been wanting to try Zella bootcut leggings, and these immediately landed in my cart. The high-rise waist and flared silhouette feel just as chic for coffee runs as they do for Pilates class — was $79, now $50!

11. Still Trending: Just when I thought I couldn’t justify another pair of adidas Sambas, this chocolate brown colorway appeared. It’s a fresh twist on the cult-favorite sneaker I’ll wear with everything from jeans to dresses — was $100, now $70!

12. Designer Energy: I love when accessories do all the talking, and this JW PEI croc-embossed tote does exactly that. The sleek shape and glossy texture make it look incredibly expensive — was $129, now $85!

13. Pink Perfection: I’m usually drawn to neutral tops, but this Caslon striped rugby polo completely changed my mind. The soft pink hue feels unexpected, while the classic silhouette means I’ll wear it for years — was $70, now $46!

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: Crocs, Vionic, Franco Sarto! Crocs, Vionic, Franco Sarto!

We still have a few months left of sandal season, however, if you’re like Us, you’re bored with your current lineup. The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is a (totally justified) excuse to restock, especially with when the most chic brands are on major sale. Spoiler: some are over 50% off. The only catch? Top picks are […]

Take a look at the summer concert docket this year – or any year, really – and you might catch yourself thinking, “Didn’t these guys do a farewell tour already?” The answer, inevitably, will be, “Yes.” In the coming months alone, Motley Crue will be playing sheds around the country, but they also finished up The Final Tour in 2015. That same year, Rush confirmed the R40 Live Tour was to be their swan song, but recently launched a run dubbed Fifty Something, which will stretch well into 2027.

For many artists, a farewell tour is supposed to be exactly that, a final chance for fans to see them before calling it a career. The reality is, plenty of musicians have announced their “last” tour, only to change their minds a few years later. Excuses that they missed performing, needed the paycheck, or simply weren’t ready to quit all lead to the conclusion that retirement in the music business often comes with an asterisk.

Over the years, there have been so many artists who have tearfully said their goodbyes while cashing in on an unsuspecting audience who thinks this might be the last time they will get to see said act, only to find out years later they’ve been hoodwinked when some sort of “comeback tour” is announced. Right now, there’s a slew of artists across all genres on the road or about to head out on what’s being called their last tour. Journey, Megadeth, the Eagles, Ministry, Little Feat, and so many more are offering up a final chance to see them live. When their respective dates come to a close, will that really be it? All we can say is: buyer beware.

Here are 10 farewell tours that turned out not to be goodbye at all, from classic rock legends to heavy metal icons. Some were back on the road within a year or two, while others stayed retired long enough for fans to believe it really was the end…until another reunion was announced.

10

Frank Sinatra

Frank Sinatra was one of the early artists to pull the “I’m finished” shenanigans, revealing in early 1971 that he would be retiring at the age of 55; not just from performing, but public life as well. Other than a pair of charity commitments that year, he was adamant about being done with the stage and retiring to Palm Springs. At a gala for the Motion Picture & Television Fund on June 13 in Los Angeles, he performed a dress rehearsal set at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion during the day, and in front of a star-studded audience that night in the Ahmanson Theatre. Sinatra closed the performance with the jazz standard “Angel Eyes” and dramatically stepped away from the microphone as he said the final line, “Excuse me while I disappear…”

But unlike an exorcised ghost, the Chairman of the Board couldn’t stay away from the limelight, chalking it up to the pressure he received to return. “Mail, phone calls…just talking to people,” were just some of the reasons he said during 1973 rehearsals for the television special ‘Ol Blue Eyes Is Back, which a new album was titled, too. The studio effort was panned but had no bearing on the desire from audiences to see Sinatra live, and he would continue to appear on stage until 1995.

9

Kiss

Image via Everett Collection

Come 2001, music fans were a bit savvier towards the idea of a goodbye jaunt, doing a collective eye roll when Kiss announced they were going to hang up the platforms and spandex. It took less than two years for that to last, with frontman Paul Stanley later rewriting history by claiming it was meant to be a farewell to the original lineup.

The tour itself was fraught with drama, from drummer Peter Criss letting his contract expire before it ended and guitarist Ace Frehley exiting the band following the final date. Two years later, with half of Kiss masquerading as originals, and Aerosmith onboard as a co-headliner, nostalgia brought overly forgiving audiences out in droves, because you never know when it’s really going to be the last time. For Kiss, that night was December 2, 2023 at the final date of the End of the Road Tour.

Then, last fall, they played three nights of the Kiss Kruise Landlocked in Vegas. How? Because that End of the Road Tour was simply the last with the makeup on. Of course.

8

Elton John

The first time Elton John retired came in front of a stunned audience at Wembley Stadium in November 1977 when he said, “I’ve made a decision that tonight is going to be the last show. There’s more to me than playing on the road.” When he was back tickling the ivories less than two years later, he attributed the announcement to being burned out, and “I was fed up with myself musically.”

“I was stale and stagnant as far as my piano playing went, and vocally I hadn’t improved in three or four years,” John said while promoting his return in 1979. “I could see the touring going on and on, and I thought there just has to be something better than this.”

Years later, he would chalk the move up to his over-the-top drug use. In 2018, John began the Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour, playing more than 300 shows before it concluded in 2023. He did leave the door open to doing a residency one day, but no more touring; it had become too much of a pain.

Then tickets went on sale earlier this month for two stadium dates in Mexico City. And John has hardly quit playing – averaging about eight shows a year, from corporate events to fundraisers to the rare public gig – but still no full-scale return. To date.

7

The Who

Drummer Keith Moon’s death in 1978 effectively put a period at the end of The Who’s career, though they carried on for a few years with Faces drummer Kenney Jones before calling it quits. Guitarist Pete Townshend said he wanted to focus on his solo career, adding that The Who would continue only as a studio act, when a farewell tour was announced in 1982.

Aside from one-off appearances at Live Aid in 1985 and the 1988 Brit Awards, the band stayed off the road until The Kids Are Alright 25th anniversary tour in 1989, where Townshend tested the stupidity of the concert-going public by insisting The Who hadn’t actually reunited.

“We did our farewell tour,” he said. “We said goodbye… We’re not a group as such anymore. We’ve actually come together, especially, for a 25th birthday party.”

It would be another nine years before The Who toured again, and they never really stopped after that, despite the death of bassist John Entwistle and repeated claims that each new run of dates would positively, probably, be the last.

“The touring is incredibly grinding on the body, and we have to draw a line in the sand somewhere,” singer Roger Daltrey said ahead of 2014’s The Who Hits 50! tour. “This will be the last old-fashioned, big tour.”

Then, last year, the band completed The Song Is Over, solemnly dubbed a “bittersweet final tour” of North America. We’ll see about that.

6

Lynyrd Skynyrd

Image via Robert Bell/INSTARimages

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Lynyrd Skynyrd had earned a little more grace than most bands because of a deeply complicated history. The original group didn’t end because of egos or burnout, but a tragic 1977 plane crash that killed frontman Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines and his sister, backup singer Cassie Gaines, and left the rest of the members physically and emotionally scarred for life. Nobody expected anything but the end of the Southern rock outfit for good. A decade later, the surviving members reunited with Ronnie’s younger brother, Johnny, handling vocals for what was billed as a tribute tour. That was supposed to be it. Instead, fans kept buying tickets, and Skynyrd kept coming around.

Thirty years later, the group announced the Last of the Street Survivors Farewell Tour, saying this really would be the final lap. Down to just one original member in guitarist Gary Rossington, one would hope so. Then the pandemic happened, and a good chunk of dates were postponed. When they picked back up, the tour had a new name: the Big Wheels Keep on Turnin’ Tour. And dates kept getting added. When Rossington died in 2023, the band didn’t skip a beat, headlining the Florida Strawberry Festival one week later. These days, it’s pretty clear there’ll never be a Lynyrd Skynyrd farewell tour since ticket sales are still strong for a tribute act in everything but name.

5

Ozzy Osbourne

Image via YouTube

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Coming on the heels of one of his best-received solo efforts, 1991’s No More Tears, Ozzy Osbourne announced that the road jaunt to support it, cleverly dubbed No More Tours, would be his last. The reasoning was that he wanted to spend more time with his family, and – though unknown at the time – he had been misdiagnosed with multiple sclerosis.

While it would’ve been quite a commercial high to go out on, the Ozzman quite finished, launching the Retirement Sucks! tour a few short years later, followed by a full-scale reunion with his bandmates in Black Sabbath. Once the Godfathers of Heavy Metal finished their own final run in 2017, Osbourne went to the well again with No More Tours II.

An unfortunate cocktail of medical maladies and the COVID-19 pandemic brought the trek to an end after just 41 shows. Luckily, fans – and Ozzy – were able to say a proper goodbye with the historic Back to the Beginning show in England last summer as the Prince of Darkness did short solo and Sabbath sets. Just over two weeks later, he was dead. Sad as it was, there was a certain poetry in the way it ended.

4

Nine Inch Nails

Trent Reznor never really did the whole “this is the last tour ever” routine. That’s probably because he’s always been a bit too smart to paint himself into that type of corner. Instead, he announced the 2009 Wave Goodbye tour and said Nine Inch Nails would be disappearing “for a while.” He had recently begun turning more of his attention to film scores, so it sounded believable enough.

The break lasted about four years.

By 2013, Nine Inch Nails was back with a revamped lineup and a world tour, and Reznor was saying he’d been thinking about the band more than he’d expected. Since then, the group has alternated between touring, disappearing again, releasing new music, and disappearing some more. Recently, NIN completed the wildly acclaimed Peel It Back Tour. Towards the end of the dates earlier this year, Reznor once again hinted that the band might be done at its conclusion but cleared it up in mid-March at the final show in Sacramento.

“What I said was, this is the last show of this tour, and we don’t have any shows booked, and we don’t have any plans to book any shows any time in the future so far,” he said from the stage. “That doesn’t mean we may not tour again. We may tour again. It won’t be next month; it won’t be this year. I never said we were intentionally stopping, and I never meant that.”

3

Garth Brooks

Country crossover superstar Garth Brooks announced he was tired of ropin’ the wind back in 2000, ostensibly to raise his three young daughters. There wasn’t much drama attached to it, as he simply decided he’d rather be a father than miss his children grow up. But the problem is, the kids eventually get big and want nothing to do with dad, and, within five years, Brooks was back performing select dates and even did a loosely structured Las Vegas residency.

Brooks was back at it for real by 2014, launching a stadium-sized comeback tour alongside his wife, fellow country star Trisha Yearwood. It didn’t take long for him to start breaking attendance records all over again, proving there was still a massive audience waiting. He added in a more traditional Vegas residency, and this year has begun rolling out dates for the Blame It All on My Roots Arena Tour.

2

Judas Priest

Image via INFevents.com

Not even a decade after Rob Halford returned to Judas Priest, the band decided to end it for good in a yearlong world tour. Billed as the band’s final major trek after more than four decades on the road, the Epitaph World Tour was largely believed to be it for the group. Guitarist Glenn Tipton said they wanted to go out while they could still perform at a high level, and fans believed them.

They shouldn’t have.

Barely two years after wrapping up the run, Priest released the Redeemer of Souls album and were back on the road again. More albums followed, including the critically acclaimed Firepower and 2024’s Invincible Shield, along with plenty of tour dates proving the Metal Gods aren’t quite ready to hang it up. In a slight gesture of fairness, the band later clarified Epitaph was meant to be the last world tour, not the last tour, period. That’s a distinction scores of fans probably didn’t appreciate when they bought tickets thinking they were saying goodbye.

1

Motley Crue

When Motley Crue announced The Final Tour in 2014, it was expectedly theatrical in saying there wouldn’t be a next time. A binding legal “Cessation of Touring Agreement” stating they would never tour again under the Motley Crue name made sure of it. The prop gravestones featuring each member’s name on them drove the point home.

“It’s not gonna be like a Kiss farewell to the farewell to the farewell to the farewell tour,” singer Vince Neil said. “It won’t be like that. We’re not going to say farewell and then try to get people to come back again in a little while.”

Then they did exactly that. Less than four years later, in late 2019, the Crue revealed they’d be back on the road with The Stadium Tour, alongside co-headliners Def Leppard and support from Poison and Joan Jett & The Blackhearts. The reasoning was due to the unexpected success of the Netflix biopic The Dirt, there was an overwhelming demand to see the group live. Combined with the lure of performing in stadiums for the first time, co-founding bassist Nikki Sixx said it was impossible to resist returning. He then stated that he’d like to see Motley continue until their 50th anniversary in 2031.

iShowSpeed has been celebrating win after win over the past few months, from wrapping up a successful tour around the Caribbean to performing his Gold-certified track at the FIFA World Cup. Now, the streamer had even more to celebrate as he neared 60 million YouTube subscribers. However, once he officially hit the milestone, the stream quickly took an unexpected turn.

RELATED: FIFA Reveals Investigation Into Alleged Racist Incident Involving IShowSpeed During World Cup Match

iShowSpeed’s 60 Million Subscriber Celebration Ends With A Hard Fall

On Friday, iShowSpeed had fans excited as he geared toward his goal of 60 million YouTube subscribers. Throughout the livestream, he added one balloon for every 10,000 new subscribers as his supporter count steadily climbed.

After reaching 59.90 million subscribers, the first giant balloon was added, followed by a second balloon after he reached 59.95 million subscribers. Finally, after hitting 59.97 million subscribers, the last balloon lifted Speed into the air as he closed in on 60 million.

Once Speed was lifted high into the air, the celebration quickly took a scary turn. The balloons suddenly popped, sending him crashing back to the ground 

IShowSpeed Reassures Supporters That He’s Okay Following Stream

Speed laid on the ground after the hard fall. And many questioned whether he was okay and if he had suffered any serious injuries. Moments later, the livestream abruptly ended. The streamer later took to his Instagram Story, showing a visibly banged-up and bleeding thumb while receiving medical attention. He also reassured supporters that he was okay following the scary incident.

Speed said, “In a medic I’m okay alright. We’re okay it was crazy. Thank yall for 60 million love yall.”

Social Media Reacts 

Many gathered under The Shade Room and across social media to celebrate IShowSpeed reaching 60 million YouTube subscribers. While celebrating the milestone, many were still shocked by the scary fall. Kai Cenat’s mom even stepped into the comments to celebrate Speed, writing, “I love that boy 😍BLACK EXCELLENCE🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤”

Instagram user @missweets2022 wrote, “We love you too speed 💙🙌🏾” 

Instagram user @tanishalanae added, “I hope his mental health is protected. I’m so proud of this young man. ❤️ “

While Instagram user wrote @thepriizzyshow added, “NO HE JUST DOIN STUFF! HE THINK THIS UP 😂😂😂”

Instagram user @amourmaddii wrote, “Why they take so long to check on him g wtt”

Instagram user @madbeauty_5 added, “This what they mean when they say ” I’II about ts “

RELATED: Another W! iShowSpeed Celebrates As ‘World Cup’ Earns His First Gold Certification (VIDEO)