Marvel Studios may have found its Scott Summers.

According to a new report from Deadline, Kit Connor has emerged as the studio’s choice to play Cyclops in Marvel Studios’ upcoming X-Men reboot. While Marvel has not officially confirmed the casting, Deadline’s report states that director Jake Schreier and Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige selected Connor following months of meetings and screen tests with multiple actors.

If finalized, Connor would become one of the first major members of Marvel’s next generation of X-Men alongside Sadie Sink, who recently made her debut as Jean Grey in Spider-Man: Brand New Day, and Samara Weaving, who was previously reported to have landed the role of Emma Frost.

Connor, best known for his breakout performance in Netflix’s Heartstopper, has quickly become one of Hollywood’s fastest-rising young stars. In recent years, he has expanded his resume with roles in Alex Garland’s Warfare, the upcoming Elden Ring adaptation, and a successful run on Broadway in Romeo + Juliet.

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Cyclops has long been considered one of Marvel’s most important mutant characters. Introduced in X-Men #1 in 1963, Scott Summers serves as the field leader of the X-Men, balancing powerful optic blast abilities with the responsibility of leading Charles Xavier’s team through countless battles.

The report also notes that Marvel considered numerous actors for the role before settling on Connor, making him another unexpected casting choice during the studio’s ongoing search for its new X-Men lineup.

Marvel Studios has yet to announce an official cast for the reboot, and, as with previous casting reports, neither the studio nor Connor’s representatives have publicly commented. However, Deadline has correctly reported several recent Marvel castings before they became official, giving this latest report significant credibility.

With Jean Grey and Emma Frost reportedly locked in and Cyclops now seemingly selected, anticipation continues to build for Marvel’s long-awaited mutant era. Fans are also expecting additional casting announcements in the near future, with many speculating Marvel could reveal more of the team during D23.

If people thought Hulu’s “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” or “SLOMW,” for short, was over after the drama that ensued earlier this year, think again! According to a new report, the streaming giant, which has produced some of the most talked-about reality shows of the last few years, including “The Kardashians,” has renewed the show for a massive 6th season.

“SLOMW” star Layla Taylor recently opened up about the news on an episode of Hulu’s “Get Real” podcast. During the show, Taylor, who recently came out as bisexual during Jay Shetty’s “On Purpose” podcast, revealed that Hulu greenlit the series for another spin around the block.

According to a source who shared more information about the season with TMZ, the 6th season’s batch of episodes will be unlike any other, considering Hulu reportedly ordered 20 episodes, which is double the amount of any season in the past.

Will Taylor Frankie Paul Be Part Of Season 6 Of ‘SLOMW’?

As for the cast, it’s unclear who all is coming back just yet, but it seems safe to assume Taylor will be back, as she was the one chosen to make the announcement.

Besides her, Taylor Frankie Paul‘s involvement seems to be the one fans will be most eager to learn about, given the immense amount of drama she went through with her ex, Dakota Mortesen, earlier this year.

According to several reports from The Blast, production on the upcoming season 5 of “SLOMW” was put on pause after the cast learned she was involved in an alleged domestic violence situation with Mortensen for the second time.

After that, a damning video was released, showing Paul physically abusing Mortensen and even launching two heavy metal chairs toward him.

Throughout all of that, Paul was in and out of court, speaking with a judge about the custody of her son, Ever, whom she shares with Mortensen.

Paul didn’t share many details about her personal life or the show’s status at the time, but she made several social media posts about her life and implied she was going through a difficult time.

This Cast Member WON’T Appear In Season 6 Of ‘SLOMW’

One cast member who certainly won’t appear in season 6 of the show is OG Whitney Leavitt.

According to The Blast, Leavitt revealed that while she would finish filming season 5, she wouldn’t return for season 6.

Despite her exit, Leavitt thanked the show for the opportunities it provided her with, such as Broadway and “Dancing With the Stars,” in her exit post.

“Every time I left, it wasn’t with gratitude,” she said. “But this time it is. It just feels like a chapter that’s closing in my life. My cup is full, and it just feels like it’s time. So I’m excited.”

What Can Fans Expect From The New Season?

Before season 6 begins, fans have to get through season 5, which currently doesn’t have an air date. Even then, there’s still a lot to look forward to, according to The Blast.

In addition to Paul’s drama with Mortensen, viewers can expect to see her feuds with her co-stars, like Mikayla Matthews and Taylor.

Although the rest has been kept under wraps, it’s sure to be worthwhile, considering Leavitt said she was even excited to watch it back.

“It’s gonna be great. I’m so excited to watch it. It’s a great, great cast,” she said.

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What Else Is Coming To Hulu?

Apart from “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,” a new show is coming to the streamer centered on Khloé Kardashian and her tight-knit circle of girlfriends.

The show, which is dubbed “The Girls,” premieres on August 21 and follows a group of highly successful, ultra-wealthy, fabulous women.

Khloé’s long-time besties, Malika and Khadijah Haqq, will lead the cast and will film with Olivia Pierson, Natalie Halcro, Yris Palmer, and Nicole Williams English, per The Blast.

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“The girls in question here? These are my OG girlfriends. They’re wild and absolutely unhinged. Kinda like me. Like real sisters, we’ve got our issues. With the girls, it’s always something. And honestly, that’s why I’m obsessed,” Khloé said about the new series.

A former colleague of Perez Hilton is urging the public to show compassion after the celebrity blogger was hospitalized following an alarming social media livestream. Hilton, whose real name is Mario Lavandeira, was taken for medical care Tuesday after authorities responded to his Miami-area residence. While acknowledging the pain Hilton caused throughout his controversial career, a Daily Mail reporter who has known him for more than 25 years argued that his current suffering should not be used as another form of entertainment.

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According to the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, authorities responded to Hilton’s residence following reports of a man “livestreaming acts of self-harm on social media.” Hilton was subsequently hospitalized and remains under medical care.

A statement posted on his celebrity news website confirmed the blogger’s hospitalization and requested privacy for the blogger and his loved ones. “We can confirm that Perez is receiving medical care, and our family’s focus right now is on his well-being. We kindly ask that you respect Perez’s privacy, as well as the privacy of his family, during this difficult time.”

Hilton’s family has since said that he is able to communicate, giving them hope as he continues receiving treatment, according to PEOPLE. Further details about his condition or treatment have not been publicly disclosed.

A Former Colleague Saw The Man Behind The Perez Hilton Persona

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The Daily Mail reporter explained that they had known Hilton for more than 25 years, including working alongside him on VH1’s “The Gossip Table.” When Hilton was hired to co-host the program in 2015, he reportedly called the journalist before relocating to New York and admitted that he desperately needed the opportunity and its accompanying salary.

Despite spending years at the center of celebrity culture, Hilton was allegedly worried that he could not afford to live in Manhattan. The conversation offered the reporter an unexpected glimpse of the person behind the abrasive public personality.

Perez Hilton had become known as a fearless provocateur who seemed to thrive on conflict. Hilton, according to his former colleague, was far more financially insecure and emotionally fragile than his image suggested.

The Reporter Did Not Ignore The Damage Hilton Caused

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The journalist made clear that Hilton’s vulnerability did not erase his destructive influence on celebrity culture. During the height of his website’s popularity, Hilton frequently mocked celebrities’ appearances, sexuality, relationships, addictions and mental health struggles. The Daily Mail reporter previously represented Ashlee Simpson as her publicist and witnessed Hilton’s treatment of the singer firsthand.

According to the journalist, Hilton relentlessly targeted Simpson, magnified her mistakes and transformed vulnerable moments into public spectacles. His coverage often appeared to take pleasure in the humiliation it created. That approach helped build his online empire during an era when cruelty routinely generated traffic and attention.

Hilton’s influence also made him a feared figure in Hollywood. Celebrities and their teams never knew who could become his next target or which private difficulty might be turned into public entertainment.

The Celebrity Gossip Empire Eventually Lost Its Power

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Hilton’s dominance diminished as the entertainment media landscape evolved. Social media allowed celebrities to communicate directly with audiences, reducing their reliance on blogs and traditional gossip outlets. Instagram, TikTok and other platforms gradually displaced the celebrity websites that had once controlled online conversations.

According to a Daily Mail reporter, Hilton struggled as his influence faded and the opportunities that once came with it began to disappear. The former co-host said Hilton enjoyed performing, being recognized, and feeling as though his voice mattered. Losing that position reportedly took an emotional toll.

During their last conversation, Hilton allegedly acknowledged that money had become tight. The admission surprised people who assumed the fortune generated during his blogging peak would sustain him indefinitely. The reporter attributed those difficulties to a changing media industry, unsuccessful television ventures and the expense of raising three children as a single parent.

Hilton moved from Los Angeles to Las Vegas before eventually settling in Miami, with each relocation appearing to represent an effort to rebuild his personal and professional life.

His Former Colleague Says Compassion Does Not Erase Accountability

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The reporter argued that extending compassion to Hilton does not require rewriting his history, excusing his treatment of celebrities or dismissing the experiences of those he targeted. Instead, it recognizes that a person can cause harm and still deserve humanity during a moment of profound distress.

Hilton built a career by treating other people’s suffering as public entertainment. His former colleague warned that celebrating his pain would merely repeat the same cruelty for which he has long been condemned.

The blogger is also a father of three whose children and family are now facing uncertainty over his well-being.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org.

Hey now, Hilary Duff and ex Joel Madden’s post-split friendship is precisely what dreams are made of.

Duff, 38, brought her Lucky Me Tour to New York City’s Madison Square Garden on Wednesday, August 5, where she enlisted Madden’s Good Charlotte for a special duet.

In addition to Duff’s setlist of Luck… or Something tracks and throwback hits, the pop star rocked out with Joel, 47, and brother Benji Madden for a rendition of 2002’s “The Anthem,” per social media footage.

Later during the show, per In Style clips, Duff changed into a vintage Good Charlotte T-shirt to perform “Why Not.”

Related: Hilary Duff, Matthew Koma Dress as Madden Twins for Dinner With Her Ex Joel

Hilary Duff and Matthew Koma got in on the Halloween fun by dressing up as her ex Joel Madden and his twin brother, Benji Madden. “Going as @benjaminadden and @joelmadden to a Halloween dinner with @joelmadden and @nicolerichie,” Koma, 37, wrote via Instagram Stories on Wednesday, October 30, alongside a photo of him and Duff, […]

“FAMILY NIGHT @ MSG. CONGRATS @hilaryduff,” Benji, 47, wrote via his Instagram Stories following the concert, sharing a backstage selfie with his brother, Duff and her husband, Matthew Koma. Joel’s wife, Nicole Richie, was also present for the nostalgia-induced evening.

Long before Duff and Madden found love with Koma, 39, and Richie, 44, respectively, they dated from 2004 to 2006. The now-exes have since remained on friendly terms.

“I have a good relationship with their whole family. We actually hang out all the time,” the Younger alum recalled on a 2023 episode of Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen. “I was just in [Nicole’s] driveway, honking for her to come drink wine with us the other day. … Now, we get them to hike together all the time. And you know what? It’s lovely.”

Joel, for his part, had also been candid about staying cordial with Duff long before their MSG duet.

“Every girl I’ve ever dated I have respect for, and I always try to leave them [on] good terms,” Joel told People in 2007. “I don’t see the necessity to be friends with anyone you’ve dated but definitely out of respect of the time, you have to be kind of respectful and that’s what I try to do.”

According to the rocker, he was never one to publicly address the breakup.

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Related: Hilary Duff Confirms New Music Is About Family After Haylie Feud Rumors

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Hilary Duff confirmed that at least some of the music on her upcoming album is about her family after fans speculated that one song in particular is about her sister, Haylie Duff. Hilary, 38, opened up about her new album, Luck … Or Something, in a cover interview with Glamour published Tuesday, February 17. The […]

“I kind of ignored it and tried to just continue to live my life,” he said at the time. “People can say or think whatever they want, so in my reality, it’s kind of irrelevant. I’m always the kind of person that does the right thing and keeps my side of the street clean.”

Joel married Richie in 2010 before they welcomed two children. As for Duff, she shares son Luca, 14, with ex-husband Mike Comrie and three daughters with Koma.

Duff, who kicked off her Lucky Me Tour in June, returns to MSG for a second show on Thursday, August 6.

We love any opportunity to temporarily leave our reality and escape to places beyond our own. It’s why we adore fantasy stories. Many of our favorite tales started on the page before finding a home on the screen. And some new books are so good, we know that day is inevitably arriving. To celebrate the year in fantasy across all media, we have picked 10 titles that you must read this year. Why? A plethora of reasons!

The titles on this list reflect new books that have made waves in the literary world and books that have been adapted into films and series. The new titles are a range of brilliant tales from extraordinary storytellers that deserve to be on your reading list. The novels range from epic classics by Homer to modern classics by Alice Hoffman, all of whom have found their works coming to a screen near you. Reading them will not only prepare you for the adaptation, but it’ll also give you a different perspective when you watch.

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‘Agnes Aubert’s Mystical Cat Shelter’ by Heather Fawcett

Image via Penguin Random House

Some people believe that low-stakes, cozy stories aren’t worthy of praise. If that’s the case, you certainly have yet to read Agnes Aubert’s Mystical Cat Shelter by Heather Fawcett. In this 2026 book set in 1920s Montreal, Agnes Aubert, an organized, type-A cat-rescue manager, uses her daily lists to cope with grief after losing her husband. She is forced to move her shelter into an affordable building, only to discover her landlord, Havelock Renard — a disorganized, charmingly grumpy, notorious former Dark Lord — is running an illicit magic shop in his basement lair. As enemies from Havelock’s shadowy past resurface, putting both the magical artifacts and the rescue cats in grave danger, Agnes must team up with him to save her cats from looming threats. And yes, the potential of romance looms along the way. Fawcett’s story has everything and more, giving you a delightful reading experience.

Agnes Aubert’s Mystical Cat Shelter is a truly charming book. Fawcett succeeds through her blend of a heartwarming cat rescue, witty banter, and a delightful grumpy-meets-sunshine romance between an unlikely duo. Fawcett crafts a whimsical atmosphere where her characters roam freely. The early 20th-century Montreal setting is filled with potential for magic, artifacts, and more. If you’re a cat person, you’ll adore the fun feline scene-stealers, including His Majesty and Banshee. Agnes Aubert’s Mystical Cat Shelter marries lighthearted magical shenanigans with a comforting, emotional center about healing and second chances. You can’t help but imagine how this cozy story could one day translate to a live-action adaptation.

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‘Death of the Author’ by Nnedi Okorafor

Image via William Morrow

Striking a balance of fantasy and science fiction comes Nnedi Okorafor’s award-winning book, Death of the Author. The book tells the story of Zelu, a disabled Nigerian-American writer in Chicago who gets fired from her teaching job and writes a breakout sci-fi novel called Rusted Robots about a post-human future that becomes a massive blockbuster and movie. Zelu struggles to maintain ownership of her identity and work as a fickle public, media outlets, and an intense fandom consume her life. Meanwhile, she accepts an experimental exoskeleton from an MIT scientist that lets her walk, sparking debate and friction with her judgmental family and disability activists. The metafictional story explores the chaotic nature of sudden fame, disability, family expectations, and how an artist’s identity intertwines with their creation.

Okorafor’s latest is another example of an Africanfuturist masterpiece. It cleverly blends messy human drama with a fantastical post-apocalyptic sci-fi story about robots. Death of the Author serves as a book-within-a-book. It is interspersed with chapters that tell the story of Rusted Robots, tracking machine factions — Humes and NoBodies — and the last human, Ngozi, whose fate eventually mirrors the real-life struggles of Zelu. Okorafor’s twists and turns brilliantly blur the line between reality and fiction. This year, the book was awarded the Locus Award and the NAACP Image Award. Now, she awaits the results of the highly anticipated Hugo Award. If that’s not a good reason to read it this year, I don’t know what is!

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‘Sunrise on the Reaping’ by Suzanne Collins

Image via Scholastic Corporation

One of the most highly anticipated films of the year is The Hunger Games prequel Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins. Concluding the massive media franchise, the adaptation lifts Collins’ gripping dystopian thriller, set about 24 years before the events of the first novel. The story centers on the 50th annual Hunger Games, the Second Quarter Quell, following a 16-year-old Haymitch Abernathy from District 12 as he is forced into the brutal arena where double the usual number of tributes compete. The novel depicts how a totalitarian government uses the media, narrative control, and public spectacle to manipulate society while providing a raw look at how political systems exploit and destroy the lives of the young and powerless.

Sunrise on the Reaping wonderfully highlights the early, dangerous sparks of defiance against tyranny in Panem, building Collins’ world even further. It answers long-held fan questions by exploring Haymitch Abernathy’s tragic past while deepening the themes that made the original trilogy so profound. The book holds emotional weight by putting Haymitch through devastating trials, making his later survival and trauma feel earned and deeply tragic. Whether you’re a loyal reader of Collins’ series or not, adding Sunrise on the Reaping to the reading list is perfect before the November 20th cinema debut. It will offer you the chance to spot book-only details as you watch the action unfold. The film, directed by Francis Lawrence, stars Joseph Zada as Haymitch and Mckenna Grace as Maysilee Donner, as well as Jesse Plemons, Elle Fanning, Kieran Culkin, and Ralph Fiennes as younger versions of Plutarch Heavensbee, Effie Trinket, Caesar Flickman, and President Coriolanus Snow, respectively.

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‘Tales of Dunk and Egg’ by George R.R. Martin

Image via Radom House

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It’s been quite a few years since the end of Game of Thrones, but the series has lived on in our hearts and on screen. For the first time ever, the calendar year of 2026 featured not one but two Game of Thrones spin-offs, and it all kicked off with A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms. The hit series is based on George R.R. Martin’s novellas Tales of Dunk and Egg, a collection of novellas set in Westeros about 90 years before A Game of Thrones. It follows Ser Duncan the Tall, known as Dunk, a kind and towering hedge knight, and his young bald squire, Egg, who is secretly Prince Aegon Targaryen in disguise. The stories follow the pair as they travel across the Seven Kingdoms, taking odd jobs, entering local tournaments, and protecting common folk. Compared to the massive political scale of A Song of Ice and Fire, these tales are more personal, focusing on friendship, chivalry, and the daily struggles of ordinary people in Westeros.

The draw into the series is the brilliant bond between a towering, lowborn knight and a royal prince hiding his identity. Their connection drives the story, serving as the beating heart. For those diehard fans of Martin’s flagship series, Tales of Dunk and Egg provides a wealth of Westeros history as told through a different perspective. It’s through these tales that Martin offers a closer look at the Targaryen dynasty during a time of peace before their final decline. Martin has written big and bold characters; here, it’s all about the banter. Dunk and Egg’s constant bickering and mutual respect bring genuine heart and humor to the page. It’s the ultimate buddy story Westeros has ever known. The HBO series is everything you could dream of and more. Peter Claffey and Dexter Sol Ansell do a steadfast job of bringing the iconic characters to life, with the former providing the charm that makes you believe in hope in Westeros. The first season of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms covered The Hedge Knight, so reading ahead lets you explore The Sworn Sword before Season 2 drops.

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‘The Book of Magic’ by Alice Hoffman

Image via Simon & Schuster

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Practical Magic defined the fantasy genre in the ’90s. And now, 28 years later, fans of the Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman film are rejoicing as the sequel is set for this fall. The film is based on Alice Hoffman’s 2021 novel The Book of Magic. The final book in the spellbinding Practical Magic series follows three generations of Owens women as they use their unusual magical gifts to try and finally break a 300-year-old family curse that causes anyone an Owens loves to die. Aunt Jet Owens foresees her own death in seven days, signaling that the family love curse is actively targeting them. When a young man falls into a coma after a confession of love, teenager Kylie Owens takes up the search for a hidden magical grimoire. The Owens family and a long-lost brother travel across Paris, London, and the English countryside, where their ancestor Maria Owens first practiced magic, to seek a way to lift the spell. A wonderful celebration of love between mothers, daughters, sisters, and brothers, The Book of Magic examines how true love requires profound sacrifice and how family history echoes through generations.

The Book of Magic is a wonderfully satisfying piece. Hoffman employs lyrical prose that evokes the spirit of the series. Hoffman’s signature magical realism creates a cozy, bewitching world that pulls readers right into the emotion of the moment. The high-stakes plot digs deep into the roots of the family’s witchcraft and the secrets hidden by older generations. It’s then a story of fate as Hoffman presents the characters with a decision about how far they will go to change their destiny and protect each other. The Book of Magic thoughtfully explores how to face grief and make every day count when time is short. Though this book marks the end of a series, Hoffman’s world extends into Practical Magic 2. In addition to Bullock and Kidman returning, they’ll be joined once again by Dianne Wiest and Stockard Channing, as well as newcomers Joey King as Kylie, Maisie Williams as Antonia, and Lee Pace as Ian Wright. The film is destined to tie together all the shimmering narrative threads from the entire Practical Magic universe.

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‘The Faraway Tree’ by Enid Blyton

Image via Newnes

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Though it may be meant for a target demographic, there’s no reason not to revisit Enid Blyton’s beloved children’s book The Faraway Tree series as a whimsical companion to the recent film, coming to the United States this August. Comprised of a quartet of books, Blyton tells the story of Joe, Beth, and Frannie, three children who move to the country and discover an enchanted wood containing a giant, magical tree. At the top of the tree are changing magical lands that lead the children and their quirky tree-friends on exciting and dangerous adventures. As a new, different magical land appears at the very top of the tree every week, the children climb up to explore these strange worlds, often having to escape before the cloud moves on and traps them. A series that helped to ignite young imaginations, The Faraway Tree series provides pure joy.

In a highly stressful time in the world, The Faraway Tree offers a low-stakes, enjoyable reading experience. The stories focus on the joy of discovery rather than heavy danger. Blyton offers a wonderful escape into a world only our mind can concoct. She allows you to experience ever-changing magical worlds at the top of the tree, connect with quirky friends like Moonface and Silky, and enjoy a nostalgic, screen-free adventure that complements the major live-action film adaptation. Directed by Ben Gregor from a screenplay written by Simon Farnaby, the 2026 film The Magic Faraway Tree features a star-studded ensemble, including Andrew Garfield, Claire Foy, Nicola Coughlin, Jennifer Saunders, Jessica Gunning, Rebecca Ferguson, Michael Palin, Simon Russell Beale, and Judi Dench. ​​​​​​​

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‘The Lord of the Rings’ by J.R.R. Tolkien

Image via Allen & Unwin

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One of the most beloved fantasy series of all time is The Lord of the Rings. After Peter Jackson dreamed up the perfect adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s sweeping epic, devoted fans always wished for more. It came in the Prime Video dark fantasy series The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power. The series chronicles the rise of the Dark Lord Sauron, the creation of the magic rings, and the history of Middle-earth thousands of years before The Hobbit. But where does the series pull from? It is based on the history of Middle-earth, primarily material from the appendices of the novel. So, now’s the best time to go back and fully engulf yourself in the Tolkien classic. While Tolkien’s posthumous book The Silmarillion covers the era in detail, Amazon acquired the rights specifically for The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, including its extensive appendices. As a result, the showrunners use the historical summaries, lore notes, and timelines found in the appendices as the foundation for the series.

The series draws from Tolkien’s exploration of Middle-earth’s Second Age. Because the appendices provide more of an outline than a traditional narrative novel, this read is more of a textual study of the greater myths and lore that serves as a companion to the book you already adore. No matter how deep you go into The Lord of the Rings, the novel is ripe for those with active imaginations. Tolkien forces you to paint the landscapes and creatures in your own mind, creating a deeper personal bond with the story than any film can provide. Though Jackson certainly rivals that sentiment. The Lord of the Rings remains a timeless tale because the themes help us look at our own mundane world with fresh, unclouded eyes. If you’re caught up on The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, then prepare yourself for a time jump, as Season 3 will take viewers into the height of the War of the Elves and Sauron.

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‘The Odyssey’ by Homer

Image via Penguin Classics

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Unless you’ve been living under a rock, stranded on a mythical isle, or stuck inside a Trojan horse, chances are you have been inundated by the summer blockbuster epic The Odyssey. While Christopher Nolan is a visionary genius, this is one story that didn’t come from his brain. In fact, you likely had to read it at some point in your schooling. Homer’s epic poem depicts Odysseus, king of Ithaca, and his 10-year journey home after the Trojan War. It covers his perils at sea, his son Telemachus’s search for news of him, and his wife Penelope’s struggle against rowdy suitors. Filled with magic and mystery, true grit and determination, it is a journey you must read to believe. Written nearly 2,700 years ago, The Odyssey has served as the basis of many modern stories and archetypes, so it’s important to learn the root of the epic.

The Odyssey combines a thrilling, creature-filled adventure with a deeply moving story about a person trying to get back home. With a plethora of foes, including a one-eyed Cyclops, magical witches, and dangerous sea sirens, you’re left on the edge of your seat with fast pacing, narrow escapes, and high stakes. Odysseus is a relatable hero. He makes mistakes and lets his ego get the better of him, making him feel real and flawed rather than perfect. And yet, his great desire to return to family and safety depicts how people deal with suffering, temptation, and making mistakes. With many easy-to-read adaptations, The Odyssey is quite accessible and perfect to compare and contrast with the Hollywood masterpiece. Reading Homer’s story is a great opportunity to see the changes Nolan implemented to make his piece resonate more with a modern audience. ​​​​​​​

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‘The Pendragon Cycle’ by Stephen R. Lawhead

Image via Baen Books

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There’s no better time than now to read Stephen Lawhead’s seven-novel series, The Pendragon Cycle. The epic historical fantasy book series retells the Arthurian legend. Through each novel, Lawhead blends myth, history, and Christian themes, following the fall of Rome in Britain, the destruction of Atlantis, and the rise of King Arthur. The series begins with Princess Charis escaping the destruction of Atlantis and her romance with the British bard Taliesin, laying the mythological groundwork. It then centers on Myrddin, better known as Merlin, a prophet and warrior, who navigates a fractured, post-Roman Britain threatened by Saxon invaders. It then shifts to the emergence of Arthur as the high king meant to unite the warring tribes of Britain, his reign, battles, and the spiritual quest to protect the Holy Grail.

The Pendragon Cycle remains a well-regarded historical fantasy series thanks to Lawhead’s seamless ability to blend the gritty historical realism of post-Roman Britain with the myth of Atlantis and a profound Christian worldview. Marrying Atlantis to the Arthurian lore served as the hook that kept readers coming back for each subsequent book. It captures the mud, dirt, and tribal conflicts of Britain after the Roman legions leave, straying from standard medieval tropes to present a raw, ancient world. One bold omission is the traditional dark sexual intrigue and adultery, like Lancelot’s affair, found in other Arthurian tales, in exchange for a powerful backdrop where druidic paganism meets the dawn of Christianity.

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‘The Kingdom Will Not Kill Me’ by Ilona Andrews

Image via Tor Books

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The powerhouse author team known as Ilona Andrews has a new series underway that has officially kicked off with the 2026 novel This Kingdom Will Not Kill Me. The epic fantasy novel follows Maggie, who wakes up naked in a gutter inside Kair Toren, a city from an unfinished dark fantasy book she loves. Armed only with her deep encyclopedic knowledge of the plot, character fates, political structures, and the fact that she cannot be killed, Maggie avoids staying on the sidelines as she tries to save the characters and stop a cataclysmic war just as the timeline begins to move off script. A masterpiece in portal-fantasy storytelling, This Kingdom Will Not Kill Me combines high-stakes political maneuvering, sharp world-building, and a resourceful heroine you can’t help but love.

This Kingdom Will Not Kill Me is a love letter to the fantasy genre. Ilona Andrews writes a batch of compelling characters that are utilized in expert world-building. The story features a mature, intelligent protagonist alongside a thoughtful yet striking male lead with high emotional maturity, and a memorable supporting crew including a former lady’s maid, an assassin, magical creatures, dukes, villains, and dueling princes. For a casual fantasy reader, be warned: there is some dense world-building and information dumps as Maggie processes her environment, but once the action gets moving, it’s balls to the wall. Yes, there is romance, but unlike traditional romantasy, the romance subplot focuses heavily on slow-burn yearning rather than immediate, explicit focus. Maggie has other priorities. Like many of Ilona Andrews’ novels, the potential for adaptation is ripe. Add This Kingdom Will Not Kill Me to the list.

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Release Date

July 15, 2026

Runtime

173 minutes

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A clip of King Harris getting pinned to a car while teaching Major how to parallel park has social media users crackin’ jokes.

RELATED: Oh, Nah! King Harris Goes Viral After Sharing Footage From His Time Visiting Elephants In Thailand: ” Was Violated” (WATCH)

King Harris Gets Pinned To Car By Major While Teaching Him How To Parallel Park

On Wednesday, August 5, Tiny Harris took to Snapchat to share footage of her sons, King and Major Harris. Furthermore, Tiny captioned the footage, explaining that Major just got his license and T.I. brought his car to him. In the clip, Major attempted to parallel park his gray Audi as King instructed him to get the car aligned straight.

At one point, King had Major back his car up, then he instructed his brother to drive the car straight, toward him. Ultimately, the clip escalated when Major pulled in too quickly, pinning his brother between his car and another.

Check out the clip below.

Social Media Is Crackin’ Jokes At King Harris Getting Pinned To Car By Major

Social media users immediately began crackin’ jokes in reaction to the parking mishap with King and Major Harris. This, in TSR’s comment section.

Before Learning How To Parallel Park, Major Harris Graduated

A few months before his apparent parking lesson, Major Harris made headlines for another milestone. As The Shade Room previously reported, in May, Tiny Harris shared a clip of Major walking across a stage as his family supported him from the audience.

“Big congratulations to my youngest son @majorpharris but the biggest boss of the family. Who graduated with Honors today frm Woodward Academy. When I tell u all 288 graduates graduated with scholarships. It was so amazing to witness! Major it has been one of the greatest moments to see u pull thru like we all knew u would. @preciousharris1913 would be overjoyed seeing her baby walk & with Honors. We celebrate u! We honor u for all your greatness & beautiful human u are inside & out!! Love u with all I got son! Here’s to you & your bright future ahead!! U make the family so proud! 🙏🏽💚👑🙌🏽🤟,” Tiny wrote in celebration at the time.

RELATED: All Grown Up! Internet Users Are Shedding Tears As Major Harris Graduates With Honors (PHOTOS + VIDEO)

Russell Dickerson is not interested in allowing traditional genre boundaries to dictate the music he creates. The country singer took another unexpected turn with “Boots,” a genre-blending collaboration featuring rapper Fetty Wap. Although Dickerson knew the song’s distinctive sound could face resistance from some country fans, he refused to let the possibility of criticism prevent him from releasing something that felt authentic to his wide-ranging musical taste.

During an exclusive conversation with The Blast on behalf of his new partnership with Hershey’s, Dickerson opened up about the surprisingly quick creation of “Boots,” how Fetty Wap became involved, and why artists should focus on creating what they love instead of attempting to recreate the past.

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Despite the work that can go into developing a cross-genre collaboration, “Boots” came together remarkably quickly. Dickerson revealed that he and his collaborators were initially working on another track when the idea unexpectedly emerged.

Rather than planning the song around a particular genre or carefully constructing a new sound, they followed the momentum of the writing session. “We wrote it in like an hour,” Dickerson told The Blast. “It was just, like, such a fun vibe.”

According to the singer, the track began taking shape after he started experimenting with a banjo. The process allowed him to create instinctively instead of worrying about where the finished song would fit within the country landscape. “Instead of thinking about ‘Oh, what sound do I need?’ I just started playing this banjo thing,” he recalled. “The song just came out.”

Russell Dickerson Is ‘So Grateful’ Other Artists Passed On His Fetty Wap Collaboration

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However, “Boots” was not immediately set aside for Dickerson. The song remained “in his back pocket” for some time and was even presented to other performers. “We pitched it to a couple other artists, and it never worked out, which I’m so grateful for because I’m such a bigger fan of Fetty Wap than any of the artists that we sent it to,” Dickerson admitted.

The outcome gave Dickerson a collaboration that his younger self never could have imagined. “I still can’t believe it. If 2016 me could know that I had a song with Fetty Wap in the future, I don’t think my brain could have actually understood what was gonna happen,” he said.

The Country Star Expected Some Resistance From Fans

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Pairing Dickerson’s country foundation with Fetty Wap’s hip-hop background helped “Boots” stand apart, but the singer understood the creative decision might not appeal to every country listener. When asked whether he anticipated pushback over the genre-blending sound, Dickerson offered an immediate response. “For sure,” he said.

Nevertheless, potential criticism has never been enough to keep him from exploring the different sounds that have influenced him. “I’m never afraid to genre blend,” Dickerson explained. “I have a huge respect, and a foundation of mine is traditional country music.”

While that respect remains central to his work, Dickerson does not believe modern country artists should feel obligated to reproduce the sound of another era. “I don’t think that, me personally, I don’t think you should be trying to emulate that,” he continued. “Be an artist. Create what you love, and if you only love traditional country music, then perfect.”

Dickerson’s own musical interests extend well beyond country. That variety naturally finds its way into the music he releases, even when it produces something listeners may not expect. “I love R&B, hip-hop, jazz. I love it all,” he said. “And so I will let those genres into my sound and come up with something fresh and new.”

TikTok Helped ‘Boots’ Find An Audience Before Its Release

Dickerson’s creative risk appeared to connect with listeners before the full song was even available. A TikTok teaser reportedly surpassed 35 million views ahead of the track’s release, demonstrating how dramatically social media has changed the way audiences discover new music.

The massive response reinforced a lesson Dickerson has learned about using TikTok. Artists cannot spend too much time attempting to perfect every post. “I think there’s a famous book. I think it’s called, like, ‘Ready, Fire, Aim’ or something like that,” he told The Blast. “And that, to me, is TikTok.”

Instead of constructing an elaborate promotional campaign, Dickerson believes artists should share content and allow fans to determine what resonates. “Just put it out. Just do it, just go,” he said. “That’s what I’ve learned, is, you can’t tease a song too much. You just gotta go.”

One of the videos that helped draw attention featured Dickerson in his kitchen and was filmed by his wife. Its casual quality was part of what made it work. “Not overthink it,” he explained. “Honestly, the crappier the better. Just, like, that’s real life, as long as you can keep it as real as possible. That’s what I’ve learned.”

Russell Dickerson’s Latest Risk Reflects His Identity As An Artist

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Between the song’s rapid creation, its unexpected featured artist, and its viral reception, “Boots” represents Dickerson’s willingness to follow an idea without forcing it into a predetermined category.

He remains grounded in traditional country music, but he does not view that foundation as a restriction. Instead, it gives him a starting point from which he can incorporate the R&B, hip-hop, jazz, and other sounds he has always enjoyed.

Science fiction as a whole is a relatively young genre, but since as far back as the very early 20th century, it has been one of the oldest and most foundational in the history of cinema as a storytelling medium. As such, it should be no surprise that throughout film history, several of the best movies ever made have been science fiction stories.

Whether it’s a modern sci-fi-adventure blockbuster like Dune: Part Two or a classic arthouse sci-fi masterpiece like Stalker, the best sci-fi movies in film history are all irrefutable proof of the tremendous narrative, emotional, and thematic power that this genre has always held. These are powerful futuristic reflections of the problems of the real world, while also being among the most engrossing motion pictures in the art form’s history.

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‘Dune: Part Two’ (2024)

Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

Frank Hebert‘s Dune is nothing short of one of the greatest and most important works of science fiction literature in history, so it was never a surprise that attempts to translate it onto the big screen had historically been all-out failures. That was until Denis Villeneuve came into the picture. But as great as 2021’s Dune was, it’s Dune: Part Two that will easily be remembered as one of the best sci-fi movies of the 21st century even a few decades from now.

It’s one of the best adventure movies in film history, Villeneuve’s vision of the world of Dune matching Herbert’s unique imagination perfectly. From the jaw-dropping visuals to Hans Zimmer‘s unforgettable score to the perfectly-crafted screenplay, this cautionary tale against the dangers of charismatic leaders is among the strongest book-to-screen adaptations in recent memory.

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‘Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind’ (2004)

Image via Focus Features

Directed by Michel Gondry and penned by Charlie Kaufman (who may very well be the greatest screenwriter currently working in Hollywood), Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is one of those soft sci-fi movies that are absolutely perfect from the first scene to the last. But far from being your typical sci-fi film, this romance dramedy is a deeply humanistic drama first and a soft sci-fi gem second.

Indeed, the way Kaufman and Gondry employ sci-fi elements and tropes to elevate this profoundly existential story about the complexities of human connection is nothing short of masterful. Bolstered by Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet at their very best, Eternal Sunshine is one of the most paintfully realistic yet beautifully bittersweet romance dramas in film history.

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‘Terminator 2: Judgment Day’ (1991)

Image via Tri-Star Pictures

Sci-fi cinema doesn’t have very many filmmakers more visionary than James Cameron, whose The Terminator is one of the greatest sophomore feature efforts in film history. However, it’s its sequel, Terminator 2: Judgment Day, that’s far and away one of the greatest sci-fi action masterpieces of all time, one of those R-rated action movies that can be called masterpieces.

What really makes Terminator 2 stand out even all these many years later is that it offers the perfect balance between high-octane action set pieces and a surprisingly emotional story. Thanks to its tremendous budget (the highest of any movie in history back in 1991), its many action sequences are absolutely riveting from beginning to end. And thanks to a phenomenal cast and a wonderfully-written script, it’s also a deeply moving tale about an unlikely friendship.

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‘Blade Runner’ (1982)

Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

Ridley Scott‘s output throughout the 21st century has generally been quite hit-or-miss, but back during the 20th century, he was genuinely one of the greatest filmmakers working in Hollywood. For proof, one needn’t look any further than Blade Runner, one of the best sci-fi movies of all time. Part neo-noir detective story, part cyberpunk action flick, it’s truly one of the most iconic masterpieces in Hollywood history.

That wasn’t always the case. Back when it originally released, Blade Runner was an all-around commercial and critical flop. It was home video that granted it a second life, allowing it to become the massive cult classic that it’s still remembered as today. Perfectly directed, hugely complex, deeply atmospheric, and endlessly analyzable, it’s a must-see for anyone who loves science fiction.

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‘Alien’ (1979)

Image via 20th Century Studios

As if any more proof were needed that sci-fi as a whole owes an awful lot to Ridley Scott, Alien is probably the greatest sci-fi horror movie ever made. While this blend of genres was definitely not uncommon before 1979, Scott essentially revolutionized it, polishing it with a level of artfulness and with an A-level budget that completely changed the way sci-fi horror was approached going forward.

It’s one of those horror movies without any flaws, a haunted house in space that anyone who loves horror, science fiction, or even just filmmaking as a whole ought to watch at least once in their lives. With a top-tier Sigourney Weaver performance, stunning production values that have aged like fine wine, and a level of slow-burning atmosphere rarely seen in either of Alien‘s genres, what’s not to love?

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‘Back to the Future’ (1985)

The Back to the Future series is one of the most universally-beloved movie trilogies of all time, but as far as quality and iconicity go, it doesn’t get any better than the original. One of the most popular sci-fi blockbusters in film history, this delectably ’80s-y masterpiece is not only Robert Zemeckis‘ magnum opus, but also one of the greatest popcorn flicks in the history of cinema.

Back to the Future is irrefutable proof that sci-fi movies don’t need to be extremely artsy in order to be genuinely flawless, because there is simply nothing to complain about when watching this masterpiece. From Marty’s first time-travel to his climactic return to 1985, Back to the Future is filled to the brim with unforgettable set pieces, excellent performances, great music, and production values that have aged wonderfully.

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‘The Empire Strikes Back’ (1980)

Image via Lucasfilm

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The Star Wars franchise is, simply put, the biggest and most successful multimedia franchise in history. But as full as it is of enthralling pieces of media, it was the original trilogy that started it all, and it’s almost universally agreed-upon that Episode V — The Empire Strikes Back is the best that the whole Star Wars franchise has ever been.

Where can one even begin singing Empire‘s praises? It contains several of the most immensely entertaining sci-fi set pieces in film history, one of John Williams‘ most beloved scores, one of the scariest sci-fi movie villains of all time, and the single most iconic plot twist in film history. Blockbusters simply don’t get any better or more universally appealing than this.

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‘Metropolis’ (1927)

Image via Parufamet

When talking about film history’s most important sci-fi classics, the conversation can never be complete without Fritz Lang‘s Metropolis. This silent German epic is one of those perfect sci-fi movies that are pure cinema, the sort of classic masterpiece that tends to make people go “they sure don’t make ’em like that anymore.” When talking about Metropolis, that’s not any sort of exaggeration.

Lang’s magnum opus is still one of the most stunning sci-fi filmmaking achievements in film history even after nearly a century of its release. On paper, it’s a relatively simple story about class differences and the conflicts between the heart and the mind, but the wonders that Lang pulls off with that premise must be seen to be believed. Technically masterful, emotionally stirring, and packed with unforgettable imagery, it’s one of the most essential masterpieces in the genre’s history.

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‘Stalker’ (1979)

Image via Goskino

Andrei Tarkovsky was far more than just a simple filmmaker: He was a poet with a camera, one of the most important and revolutionary arthouse filmmakers in the history of European cinema. The Soviet auteur only made two sci-fi movies during his career, and though some may argue in favor of Solaris being superior, it’s Stalker that’s more often recognized as one of the greatest sci-fi movies in history.

Those who prefer more traditionally entertaining popcorn blockbusters to provide their sci-fi movie fix are probably better off looking elsewhere. However, those who love artful, slow-burning, meditative science fiction ought to experience Stalker at least once in their lives. It’s one of the most poetic sci-fi movies of all time, an endlessly analyzable masterpiece that grows even more complex and spiritually provocative with every rewatch.

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‘2001: A Space Odyssey’ (1968)

Image via Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

Far more than just one of the best sci-fi epic movies of all time, 2001: A Space Odyssey is perfect proof of why many would confidently call Stanley Kubrick the greatest filmmaker in Hollywood history. With a perfect balance between slow-burning arthouse atmosphere and the sort of high-budget technical wonders that you expect from an A-lister Hollywood production, it’s one of the most essential masterpieces in film history, regardless of genre.

What’s not to love and praise when watching 2001? Kubrick’s direction is as powerfully evocative as it is technically impressive, HAL 9000 is one of the most effective villains in film history, the music and visuals are high art in and of themselves, and the way the whole story is paced is enthralling without ever losing its arthouse-coded charm. There is no sci-fi movie more perfect than 2001: A Space Odyssey.

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2001: A Space Odyssey

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Release Date

April 10, 1968

Runtime

149 minutes

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  Keir Dullea

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Kathy Griffin is looking back on the painful breakdown of her friendship with Dave Grohl. 

The comedian and Grohl, who used to be friends, had a falling out following the controversial post Griffin shared, depicting a fake Donald Trump-inspired head that appeared to have been severed. 

Years after the 2017 incident, Griffin is now explaining how it affected her life, both professionally and emotionally.

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Opening up on a recent episode of “Talk Your Head Off,” Griffin detailed her falling out with her “former friend” Grohl.

Describing their past relationship, the comedian said the two were on friendly terms. She even pointed to a 2011 promotional video she filmed alongside the “Foo Fighters.”

However, Griffin explained that their dynamic completely shifted after her controversial post about Trump. Recalling their run-in at John F. Kennedy International Airport shortly after the incident, Griffin explained that she spotted Grohl standing near a newsstand. 

Uncertain of how he would react, she hesitated to reach out first. “I didn’t want to initiate a conversation because I was so used to celebrities not wanting anything to do with me or wanting anyone to even see them standing next to me,” she admitted.

 “Then Dave acted like he didn’t know me. Maybe he didn’t see me, because I’m so hard to miss at a newsstand,” she added.

The awkwardness continued once they boarded the plane, where Griffin noticed they were seated just two spots apart from each other. Though she briefly considered approaching him on board, she decided against it to avoid an uncomfortable situation.

Kathy Griffin Recently Opened Up About Her Career Comeback After Years of Exile

Alongside her personal falling out with former celebrity friends, Griffin has also spoken about the broader impact the 2017 incident had on her career.

Almost nine years after the incident, the comedian revealed that she finally feels vindicated and views herself as “uncanceled,” per The Blast. 

Reflecting on the aftermath, Griffin shared that she never expected public perception to swing back in her favor after years of professional isolation. She also revealed that she did not work for seven years as a result of the controversy.

While acknowledging that the infamous image remains tied to her public identity, Griffin noted that she now feels a renewed sense of confidence as she continues to build her career on her own terms.

Kathy Griffin Still Gets ‘Confronted’ About The Donald Trump Photo

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Months before Griffin expressed relief about finally being “uncanceled,” she admitted that the photo still haunts her.

Attending the Out100 event in November 2025, where she was honored as Advocate of the Year, she opened up about how she navigates ongoing public confrontations, as reported by The Blast. 

Griffin shared that while her perspective on life has evolved, she no longer expects to change other people’s minds and has even formed friendships with individuals holding different political views. 

However, she noted that the controversial photo remains a sore spot, admitting that certain Trump supporters still approach her to voice their anger. Interestingly, while some Trump fans still criticize her for the incident, others praise her for it.

Kathy Griffin Sparked Online Frenzy After Teasing Romance With A Much Younger Man

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Similarly, in her usual fashion of stirring up public debate, Griffin recently ignited a frenzy online by introducing a surprisingly younger companion to her followers. 

According to The Blast, she uploaded a snapshot featuring herself alongside an unnamed 22-year-old companion. Inviting public reaction to their substantial age difference, the comedian cheekily captioned the image, “He’s 22. Have at it, internet.”

Followers quickly flooded the post with contrasting opinions. Skeptical fans warned her against rushing into anything serious, with one user advising, “Just don’t marry him,” while another reminded her of past comments regarding age gaps in her previous relationships. 

Kathy Griffin Revealed That The Age-Gap Prank Was A Social Experiment

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Following the public reaction to her post, Griffin stepped forward to clarify that the apparent romance was nothing more than a lighthearted joke. 

Addressing her followers on social media, the performer explained that the post was a deliberate sociological experiment designed to see how the public would react to a massive age difference.

“You guys! Thanks to all those who participated in my social media sociological experiment,” she wrote, per The Blast.

She further explained that he was simply assisting her with security during a trip to New York City, and went on to highlight what she views as a clear double standard in Hollywood regarding age-gap relationships.