UPDATE 2/19/2026 at 12 p.m. ET — The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requested and reviewed transcripts of Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl LX Halftime Show after Republican Congressman Andy Ogles’ demand for an investigation.

Commissioner Anna Gomez told Reuters on Wednesday, February 18, that she reviewed the transcripts of the performance after seeing that the commission requested them. Gomez told the outlet that she found “no violation of our rules and no justification for harassing broadcasters over a standard live performance.”

The FCC has no plans to continue reviewing the matter, barring additional evidence, a source familiar with the situation told The New York Post.

The investigation came after Ogles, 54, argued that Bad Bunny’s halftime show contained “indecent” dancing and lyrics.

Original story continues below:

United States Congressman Andy Ogles is demanding an investigation into Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl LX halftime show, which he described as “pure smut.”

Ogles, a 54-year-old Republican from Tennessee, called for “a formal congressional inquiry into the National Football League and NBC immediately for their prior knowledge, deliberate approval, and facilitation of this indecent broadcast” on Monday, February 9. 

“American culture will not be mocked or corrupted without consequence,” Ogles shared via X. 

He added, “Children were forced to endure explicit displays of gay sexual acts, women gyrating provocatively, and Bad Bunny shamelessly grabbing his crotch while dry-humping the air. And if that weren’t outrageous enough, the performance’s lyrics openly glorified sodomy and countless other unspeakable depravities. These flagrant, indecent acts are illegal to be displayed on public airways.”

Related: Bad Bunny‘s Super Bowl Halftime Show: All the Hidden Symbols Explained

One of the most talked-about and widely covered halftime performances in Super Bowl history took place this Sunday, February 8. “Qué rico es ser latino,” Bad Bunny declared at the very start of the show at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. What followed were 13 minutes filled with symbolism, history, folklore and flavor — […]

Advertisement

In a letter written to Brett Guthrie, the chairman of the Committee on Energy and Commerce, Ogles pointed out specific points of contention with Bad Bunny’s performance, which aired live during Super Bowl LX on Sunday, February 8. 

Ogles criticized Bad Bunny for performing his song “Safaera,” which the congressman said includes references to “analingus, sexual intercourse and other explicit themes.”

He also referenced the choreography during “Yo Perreo Sola,” which he said featured “overtly sexualized movements including widespread twerking, grinding, pelvic thrusts and other sexually suggestive conduct.”

“While the set was performed predominantly in Spanish, it relied on songs whose sexual content remained readily apparent across any language barrier,” Ogles argued. “This language barrier did not mitigate the explicit nature of the material; rather, it heightened the broadcaster’s obligation to exercise reasonable diligence in reviewing, translating and evaluating the content prior to airing.”

Ogles added, “We must ensure that we hold Spanish-language content to the same standards and expectations we have for English-language content.”

The politician suggested it was “highly implausible” that the NFL and NBC, who broadcast the game, “lacked advanced knowledge of the performance’s content.”

“Rehearsals were conducted, setlists and production elements were submitted in advance and broadcast networks maintain delay mechanisms, commonly referred to as a 7-second delay, specifically intended to prevent indecent or inappropriate material from reaching live audiences,” Ogles wrote. 

The congressman said a committee review was necessary to “ensure that the law continues to function as intended in safeguarding the airwaves relied upon by American families.”

Ogles isn’t the only elected official to demand action in the wake of Bad Bunny’s halftime show. 

Advertisement

Related: Why Bad Bunny Wore No. 64 on His Jersey During Super Bowl Halftime Show

Bad Bunny had family on his mind when he took the field for the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show. The rapper, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, wore a cream-colored custom jersey for his performance, with “Ocasio” on the back and No. 64. “Bad Bunny paid homage to his uncle who played football […]

Congressman Randy Fine, who represents Florida’s 6th Congressional District, said that the Puerto Rican rapper’s “disgusting” performance was “illegal” because he cursed in Spanish. 

“Had he said these lyrics — and all of the other disgusting and pornographic filth in English on live TV, the broadcast would have been pulled down and the fines would have been enormous,” Fine, 51, alleged via X on Monday. “Puerto Ricans are Americans and we all live by the same rules.”

Fine sent a letter to the Federal Communications Committee, demanding “dramatic action” be taken. 

The politician also referenced the NFL, NBC and Bad Bunny himself, writing, “Lock them up.”

Roommates, heartbreaking news is continuing to unfold following the passing of Jacksonville rapper Lil Poppa. New details have now been confirmed about what led to the 25-year-old artist’s sudden death, and the information is leaving fans stunned.

RELATED: Prayers Up! Florida Rapper Lil Poppa Has Reportedly Passed Away At Age 25

Medical Examiner Confirms Lil Poppa’s Cause Of Death

According to the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office in Georgia, Lil Poppa’s death has officially been ruled a suicide. Officials confirmed that he died from a gunshot wound to the head. The ruling comes shortly after initial reports of his passing began circulating online, sending shockwaves through social media and the hip-hop community.

Additionally, the news arrived shortly after the release of his latest single, ‘Out Of Town Bae,’ which had fans showing love and support. And, many are now reflecting on his recent music and wondering what he may have been going through behind the scenes.

Lil Poppa’s Close Collaborator Speaks Out

Born Janarious Mykel Wheeler, the rapper—widely known as Lil Poppa—was raised in Jacksonville, Florida, where he began rapping at a young age. Friends say he started performing around age 7, often alongside peers from his church community. Over time, he carved out a lane for himself with introspective lyrics and a calm, restrained delivery that spoke on mental health, loyalty, pain, and relationships. His storytelling style earned him a dedicated fan base who saw their own struggles reflected in his music.

At the time of his passing, Lil Poppa was signed to Collective Music Group, the label founded by Yo Gotti. The roster also includes artists like GloRilla. Those who worked closely with Wheeler described him as focused, driven, and grounded despite his growing success. Producer Scotty OTH shared heartfelt words with WTLV, reflecting on the man behind the music. “He’s just a great guy. Outside of the music and the artistry, man, he was a good human, and I’ll never forget him,” he said.

Social Media Reflects On His Legacy

In the wake of the announcement, fans and fellow artists have flooded TSR’s Instagram comment section with tributes, remembering Lil Poppa not only for his talent but for the vulnerability he wasn’t afraid to put into his records. As conversations around mental health in the industry grow louder, many are pointing to the importance of checking in on loved ones—especially those who appear strong on the outside.

One Instagram user @whothatboytrey said, “Some of his lyrics did give a cry for help 🥺🥺 this is sad“

This Instagram user @therealkilahslay added, “Black men we love you ! It’s okay to speak to someone!“

And, Instagram user @feezyimhim commented, “💔 never know what somebody going through fr !🙏🏾 I’ve been there“

Meanwhile, Instagram user @vibewithvivian__ shared, “MENTAL HEALTH IS SO IMPORTANT.“

While Instagram user @lortinklmg_ wrote, “Mental heath is a real thing , check on y’all peoples…“

Finally, Instagram user @darealstackssss said, “Don’t hesitate to pick up the phone & check on your people sometimes“

RELATED: Prayers Up! Lizzo Shares Emotional Tribute Following The Death Of Beauty 2 The Streetz Founder Shirley Raines (VIDEO)

A dentist was allegedly intoxicated while performing an oral surgical procedure on a child at a Texas pediatric dental practice, according to police.

A dentist’s office in Sherman called police on Monday, February 16, to report a dentist, identified as Kelly Buck, “was potentially intoxicated while treating patients,” the Sherman Police Department said in a news release issued Wednesday, February 18. The city of Sherman is about a 65-mile drive north from Dallas.

In an update, police said officers discovered Buck, 36, had treated one patient before they arrived and suspected that she was intoxicated when they met with her, according to police.

Pediatric Dentistry of Sherman acknowledged in a statement shared to Facebook on February 18 that the practice “experienced a difficult situation” in reference to Buck, who was described as a “temp dentist.”

Buck was taken into custody on a felony charge of performing surgery while intoxicated, according to police, who confirmed that she was “working in a temporary capacity through a staffing agency at the time of the incident.”

According to a search warrant affidavit reviewed by WFAA, Buck was performing a “filling and crowning” on an 8-year-old boy, whose father called police.

Related: Timothy Busfield’s Lawyer Claims He Passed Lie Detector Test After Arrest 

Advertisement

Timothy Busfield allegedly submitted to a polygraph test after he was arrested for child sexual abuse. “Tim Busfield denies the allegations in the criminal complaint and maintains they are completely false,” Busfield’s lawyer, Larry Stein, told Us Weekly in a Wednesday, January 14, statement. “As a voluntary step, he submitted to an independent polygraph examination […]

A technician who was helping Buck “observed behavior by Buck which [led] her to believe that Buck was intoxicated,” and “stopped the surgery mid-course due to the risk that Buck’s intoxication presented to the patient,” the affidavit says, the TV station reported.

Following her arrest, Buck would not agree to give a sample of her blood, the filing states, according to the TV station.

While speaking with WFAA over the phone, Buck shot down the accusations that she had been intoxicated.

“This is absurd,” Buck told the TV station. “I plan on fighting this … it’s doing irreparable damage to my career.”

Buck’s attorney, Matt Hamilton, maintained that she was innocent while speaking with the TV station.

“She looks forward to clearing her name and getting this behind her,” Hamilton said to WFAA.

Buck has been a licensed dentist in Texas since August 2016, according to the state’s online licensing system. No disciplinary actions have been filed against her to date, records show.

According to the Pediatric Dentistry of Sherman, the practice booked Buck for contracted work through Cloud Dentistry, a company that connects dental offices with dentists for temporary work.

The company’s CEO and co-founder, Trey Tepichin, said in a statement to NBC DFW that “Cloud Dentistry cannot comment on the alleged conduct as it’s currently under investigation.”

“All Cloud Dentistry users, including the user in question, have passed a background check,” Tepichin’s statement also said, in part, according to the outlet. “The user in question has been suspended from the platform pending a more thorough investigation.”

Advertisement

Related: Prosecutors Request Timothy Busfield Be Denied Bail Amid Child Abuse Claims

Prosecutors in the child sex abuse case involving Timothy Busfield will file a motion to keep the actor in police custody as the case proceeds towards trial. According to a Facebook post shared by Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman on Tuesday, January 13, “The Bernalillo County District Attorney’s Office intends to file a motion […]

Buck was supposed to perform multiple dental treatments on February 16, according to the Pediatric Dentistry of Sherman.

“During the 1st dental treatment,” a registered assistant noticed she “did not seem herself,” the practice wrote on Facebook.

The assistant alerted an officer manager, who told staff “not to call” Buck “into any additional operative appointments or hygiene exams,” according to the dental practice.

The officer manager ultimately alerted police after contacting several consultants to discuss how to respond to Buck’s alleged, potential intoxication, the dental practice said.

“We are deeply saddened and troubled over this situation, and we are extremely concerned that this negatively impacted a valued patient,” the practice wrote on Facebook.

By Jennifer Asencio
| Published 47 seconds ago

The sixth episode of The Pendragon Cycle: Rise of the Merlin, titled Ganieda, is different from the episodes that preceded it. Both show creator Jeremy Boreing and director Ryan Whitaker have said on social media that this is their favorite episode. The script was written by executive producer and series star Rose Reid, who plays Charis.

If you’re looking for the intrigue that surrounds Aurellius and Uther, it’s not here. The drama and anticipation of war with the Saxons is also not directly part of this episode. There’s no Charis, no Morgain, no hints of Ygrena to taunt fans of Arthurian legend. Even Pelleas makes only the most token of appearances. This episode is about Merlin and is probably the most important episode because it is the linchpin of the entire series.

 In past episodes, we were shown the world in the time of the Pendragon brothers, and Merlin appears to be around their age: a young man in his early 30s. But Merlin is much older than that, and his history that was hinted at in the other episodes now comes to full bear. We delve fully into Merlin’s missing years, and tie together elements of the plot that were introduced as Merlin has campaigned around England on Aurellius’s behalf.

What happened to Merlin after he was abducted by the Hawk Fhain hill folk as a child? That is succinctly summed up in the cold open. How did Merlin become King of Maridunum? Shown in all its glorious heroism. What is behind King Custennin’s anger at Merlin? Explained in gritty and heart-wrenching detail.

Romance Between Merlin And Ganieda Carries The Episode

At the center of Merlin’s world is Ganieda, whose mysterious presence in his life is finally examined. The vision who watches him from afar and even occasionally talks to him is a tragic echo of Merlin’s past, is the woman he loved, married, and lost. Every aspect of who he is, he owes to her. This episode is their story.

This episode largely falls on two actors: Tom Sharp and Brett Cooper. Sharp’s acting as Merlin has been stoic and bland so far, mainly because Merlin is a stoic character. In this episode, even his most anguished cries are perfect, as we are shown who Merlin really was before tragedy jaded him. His interplay with Cooper’s Ganieda reveals a love that is wholesome and true.

Who is the woman that could attract such a powerful and composed man? She is impish, alluring, and determined. She is supportive and loving. She is her own power, without the advantages of Merlin’s lineage or divine benefaction. Cooper, who has been relegated to the background so far as Ganieda has been shrouded in mystery, brings Merlin’s love to life as a true peer who complements his stature without overtaking it. A nod also must be made to her costume designer, whose work clothed her in designs that were as feminine and intricate as they were emblems of her strength and fierceness.

Tonally, this episode is a very different story from the war campaign that has been the larger arc of The Pendragon Cycle. Without the massive threat of Saxon invasion, the England of this episode is the world of fractured kings and Pictish and Irish raiders. While the love story between Ganieda and Merlin is the main framing device, the episode neatly ties together the events of the future through both diplomacy and battle and establishes the reputation we’ve come to know Merlin by. There are clever throwbacks all over the episode to remind us of these connections: a wink, a stance, the way a scene is lit.

The Pendragon Cycle Comes To Life

It is in this episode that the world of The Pendragon Cycle comes most to life. We are thrust into the world of the early medieval Britons, from their ways of dispensing justice to slice-of-life scenes of cooking or washing clothes. A scene in the mead hall in Goddeu doesn’t cut the other diners’ chatter, making it seem more like the revel it’s intended to be than a private conversation in an enclosed room. The Fhain’s mountain huts and connection to nature could have been filmed through a time machine, save for a death scene that was a little overdone.

I’ve given a lot of attention in previous reviews to the show’s stunning cinematography, the illuminating composition, and the gorgeous views. There is no lack of that in this episode as well. There are two very amazing battle scenes that manage to portray all the brutality without any of the gore. A savage execution is rendered humorous by background actions while two major characters speak. The attention to detail and drive for quality that has been exhibited thus far in the show are fully present, but it would be so repetitive to examine these things again that even the show only glanced at its stunning Goddeu exterior set from episode 5.

The biggest stand-out element of production in this episode, to me, was in the soundtrack, something I hadn’t really paid attention to before. Usually, the soundtrack to The Pendragon Cycle is there to garnish the drama, action, and tension of the show. In this episode, especially its gut-wrenching, terrifying ending, the soundtrack does as much work as the actors to bring us into the emotion of the moment. Composer Kyle McCuiston’s music for the entire show is worthy of its own CD release, but in this episode, he adds compellingly to the mood and the drama.

The effects in this episode were also wonderfully understated, enhanced mainly by camera tricks and editing. Swords that catch fire are terrifying reminders of the angry nature of Merlin’s One True God, but a slow-motion rendering of a shield shattering to pieces provides a powerful visual of the price of medieval war. The episode’s climax does not disappoint, showing us that the Merlin we have been wanting to see is not someone we should have wished for.

The Battle Break Merlin Needed

Although it is not the same as what we’ve seen before, a show subtitled Rise of the Merlin would not be complete without knowing how the pieces were assembled to enable that rise, and what the motivations are behind his work with the Pendragon brothers. The series needed this break from the struggles of the war against the Saxons to shed light on the mysterious figure behind Aurellius’s quest for the throne.

It is not a spoiler to say that this episode was bittersweet. Anyone who has been watching the show knew this was coming. But it definitely hits harder to see it. Merlin is not stoic and composed because it’s his personality. Merlin possesses a power so destructive that he can level armies. Will that fury be unleashed in the final episode of the series?

PENDRAGON CYCLE EPISODE 6 REVIEW SCORE

The Pendragon Cycle is on Daily Wire+, and episode 6 will be released on Thursday evening.

Overhauling my wardrobe is a vital component of my annual spring cleaning extravaganza, but refreshing my basic tees collection as soon as temperatures teeter on 60 degrees has also become a yearly tradition. I narrow down what’s missing from my assortment, then I look for affordable replacements on Amazon.

The Amazon New Releases section of the e-tailer’s fashion sector is a goldmine of elevated basics. The pieces range from luxury items to budget-friendly picks, so if you’d rather not splurge on staples, there’s a variety of classic T-shirts under $25 to browse. Here’s what’s worth adding to cart.

15 Basic T-Shirts and Tank Tops to Refresh Your Spring Wardrobe

1. Business-Casual: In-office days no longer require stiff button-downs. Your business ensemble should be as easy-breezy as the weather outside, and this short cap-sleeve blouse, constructed from a breathable blend, will be a seamless fit into your workoutwear capsule.

2. Transition Must: Sweater material isn’t exclusive to your fall and winter rotation. Unlike bulky cold-weather knits, this ribbed tank also works as a lightweight vest, keeping you warm (thanks to a wool component) when the sun goes down and cool when temperatures are high.

3. Best Value: Sometimes scoop necks feel too basic, so switch up your status quo with a square-neck instead. These tops (which come in a 5-pack) create the illusion of a longer neck and can be dressed up further with an accessory, such as a statement necklace.

4.  Seasonally-Appropriate Sleeves: Springtime weather conditions flip-flop between almost-too-cool and just-warm-enough, which makes this double-lined long-sleeve top worth adding to your rotation. Its second-skin-like fit makes it ideal for layering over in the chilly mornings and evenings, while the boat neckline is a sleek statement all its own when you can knix the blazer.

Related: 21 Cap-Sleeve Tops for Women Who Hate Showing Their Arms

The upcoming warmer weather means it’ll soon be time to ditch long sleeves. However, if you get self-conscious about your arms and don’t exactly love showing them off, consider filling your closet with cap-sleeve tops. They were designed to have a drapey, loose fit that won’t hug your upper arms in an awkward way. Still, […]

5. Detailed Neckline: Rumor has it that 2026 is channeling 2016, and scallop necklines were a top trend in the 2010s. This contemporary version of a ruffle-detailed top leans into the nostalgia and elevates basic tanks.

6. Y2K Essential: While on the subject of 2016, this bandeau crop top is the epitome of Y2K spring-summer fashion. Pair it with high-waisted bottoms and a cardigan for a business-casual look, then swap the trousers for denim and high tops when you’re off the clock.

7. Everyday Ease: V-neck tanks that deliver on quality and fit are hard to come by (trust me, I know, I’ve bought and returned many), but I have my eye on this slim-fit, ribbed cami. It boasts spaghetti straps and a subtle (not plunging) V neckline that can be worn both casually and to the office.

8. Color-Blocked Win: The wrong color-blocking combo and ratio can consume your top half, but this color-blocked basic keeps the style subtle — and therefore universally attainable — with a main shade and contrasting trim around the neckline and short sleeves.

9. Lovely Lace: Despite lace’s dainty connotation, the meshwork detail of Zesica’s basic tank top enhances a simple design in a way that is feminine and understated.

10. Cold-Shoulder Chic: Off-the-shoulder tops that need constant adjustment? Bye. But this off-the-shoulder top that’s double-lined for a sleek fit and enough compression to keep its sleeves and neckline (mostly) in place? Buy!

11. Comfort MVP: One essential basic tee you don’t want to overlook in your spring capsule is a long-sleeved top for those occasional blustery days. This option offers a slim fit and a ribbed construction with elastane for a bit of necessary stretch.

12. Multipurpose Design: Versatility is king if you’re looking to consolidate your closet, and this multi-purpose top (which went viral on social media last year) can help eliminate some of the clutter. It boasts a buttery-soft feel, double-lined fabric, four-way stretch, moisture-wicking materials and sleeves that can be styled in a myriad of ways, so one top can be multiple.

13. Regency Core: Between the new Wuthering Heights movie adaptation and the return of Bridgerton, corsets are back on my radar for spring 2026. If you’re not ready to go full lingerie-as-clothes, this corset-style top alludes to the undergarments’ sensual tone, without too much shock value.

14. Cozy Sophistication: Vest tops seem to go in and out of style, but this elevated basic secures its spot in my wardrobe due to its simplistic sophistication and, of course, the dainty button detail.

15. Dreamy Cowl Neck: I’m obsessed with the ruching of this cowl neck top. It starts at the neckline and continues throughout the tee, delivering a slouchy, casual fit contrasted by ribbed knit fabric for effortless elegance.

Related: Nail Gwyneth Paltrow‘s Effortlessly Chic Style With These 17 Sweaters

Advertisement

When we think of rich-mom style, Gwyneth Paltrow is one celebrity who instantly comes to mind. The Goop founder is certainly no stranger to dressing up, but her everyday fashion includes button-down shirts, tailored trousers and, yes, classic sweaters. Paltrow’s timeless taste has inspired us to refresh our own wardrobes with a knit or two […]

By Robert Scucci
| Published 1 hour ago

There’s nothing more anxiety-inducing than watching somebody you care about try to navigate dozens of browser windows, each containing dozens of tabs with no perceivable organizational structure. You ask why they can’t just bookmark the important pages, or at least keep the windows from overlapping so they can actually see what they’re doing, but they don’t have a clear answer. If you’re a neat freak like me, who can’t survive without clean page breaks and closes unwanted tabs with reckless abandon, 2014’s Open Windows is going to send you to a dark place you’ll wish you could control + shift + escape from.

Framed as a found footage techno thriller, Open Windows is either a hacker’s dream come true or a cyberspace nightmare if you just want to surf the web and scroll your favorite fandom sites. It’s a picture within a picture within a picture, overlapping with another picture that contains a clickable link that opens more windows, and that’s how you watch events unfold from our hero’s perspective.

The crazy part is that what transpires in Open Windows is far more horrifying than having too many tabs open. I only brought that up because I was already in a heightened state 20 seconds after hitting play, and I hadn’t even been exposed to the actual mystery yet.

I Always Feel Like, Somebody’s Watching Me!

Open Windows centers on Nick Chambers (Elijah Wood), a webmaster who runs a fansite for his favorite B movie actress, Jill Goddard (Sasha Grey). He flies to Austin, Texas after winning a blog contest that promises him access to a publicity event where he can meet her. He’s devastated when he learns through her assistant, Chord (Neil Maskell), that she cancelled at the last minute, meaning he traveled and booked a nearby hotel for nothing.

While uploading new images to his site that he clipped from Jill’s latest livestream, Nick is contacted again by Chord, who sends him a link granting access to all of Jill’s devices, though he doesn’t know this until he clicks it and it’s already too late. Though he’s not the voyeuristic type by any stretch, Nick plays along because Chord comes off as threatening and he feels like he has to do what he’s told. 

As if the entire evening had been orchestrated months in advance, Nick is given access to increasingly sophisticated audio and video feeds and pushed further when Jill’s agent, Tony (Ivan Gonzalez), the man she’s secretly having an affair with, nearly catches him spying. Nick is urged to use a taser to neutralize the situation and erase suspicion, and that’s the fatal mistake. Chord has been recording everything from the beginning. Now the only person who looks guilty is Nick, the fan site operator who appears to be stalking the actress and has assaulted someone connected to her.

Whispers suggest the entire operation is being run by a master hacker known only as Nevada. Nick finds himself trapped in a web of incriminating screenshots, manipulated video feeds, and shifting identities. The hackers use him to obtain compromising material of Jill for their own purposes, and they’re so adept at covering their tracks that Nick isn’t even sure who he’s speaking to, who’s actually in charge, or what happens if he tries to contact the authorities.

A Disorienting Mess Elevated By Elijah Wood

Like I said at the top, the sheer volume of open browser windows in Open Windows was enough to send me into a spiral before I understood what was at stake. Elijah Wood, who performs much of the film reacting to screens before the third act forces him into the real world, is trapped in the net trying to figure out just how screwed he is. Every click feels documented. Every hesitation feels watched.

The bewilderment on Nick’s face in Open Windows is the real selling point. He’s forced to violate his favorite actress’s privacy in increasingly invasive ways, and there’s no clean exit. He’s simply the wrong fan in the wrong place at the wrong time. Watching him piece it together in real time as he’s followed through cyberspace and eventually the streets of Austin makes for a tense thriller delivered through wildly unconventional means.

While all I wanted to do was reach into the screen and start closing tabs, the story Open Windows tells is layered with deception, voyeurism, blackmail, and extortion. The twists constantly make you question what’s real, what’s manufactured, and whether this is all some elaborate publicity stunt waiting for a final reveal.

An anxious watch from start to finish, Open Windows is an obsessive spiral of media manipulation, and you can stream it for free on Tubi as of this writing.

Horror has a special place in cinema history. The most prolific and recognizable filmmaking style ever created has had a helping hand in shaping the entertainment world into the smashing juggernaut that it is today, and its popularity grows each year. Since the medium’s conception, with the first horror technically being 1896’s Le Manoir du Diable (The House of the Devil), the genre has been at the forefront, creating some of the most iconic, terrifying, and wildly successful films ever made.

The timeline of the horror genre from its inception to the current era is nothing short of spectacular. Each era, from the silent age to the start of the 2020s, has seen horror change considerably and introduced something inventive that helped elevate the genre into the exciting powerhouse we know and love now. From the most revered classics to modern achievements, let’s track the frightening history of the horror genre using ten landmark films that best represent each significant point since its invention.

10

‘Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror’ (1922)

Image via Film Arts Guild

Starting with the silent age, horror in the time before talking pictures was when the genre was still in its infancy. This period was filled with pioneering classics, many of them still highly revered today for creativity and compelling visual storytelling. From The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari and The Golem to The Phantom of the Opera, these were some of the first films to truly show the terrifying potential of horror. But, in this age of excellence, it is F. W. Murnau‘s Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror that’s widely hailed as the most definitive thanks to its historical influence.

Released in 1922 as an unofficial adaptation of Bram Stoker‘s Dracula, Nosferatu provided endless terror, becoming the pinnacle of early horror cinema. Featuring eerie visuals, a dark, haunting atmosphere, and one of the most unsettling depictions of a vampire in Count Orlok (Max Schreck), Nosferatu has become a timeless masterpiece that continues to have a lasting impact on modern horror. Arguably, it best represents the silent age of filmmaking with how iconic and revered it’s remained all these decades later.

9

‘Frankenstein’ (1931)

Image via Universal Pictures

Moving away from the silent era to the dawn of talking motion pictures, next, let’s talk about Hollywood’s Golden Age of horror, when iconic tales of monsters, ghouls, and ghostly nightmares ruled cinema for most of the 1930s and ’40s. It was when Universal Studios entered its most legendary stage: the classic Monsters Universe, a time that saw Dracula, The Wolf Man, and The Mummy triumph on the big screen. But, taking the next spot on this list is a pioneering classic and arguably the most representative of this time, Frankenstein.

Released in 1931 by the remarkable James Whale, this legendary retelling of Mary Shelley‘s iconic novel has had a helping hand in shaping pop culture. Its story, characters, and classic sets have all been ingrained in the minds of cinemagoers for generations. Everything, from the lines to Boris Karloff‘s riveting portrayal of the creature, is still remembered, showing the power and excitement of watching a classic Universal Monster film. Though other adaptations of Shelley’s work are arguably more compelling, Frankenstein certainly represents the peak of this memorable age of horror history.

8

‘Gojira’ (1954)

Image via Toho Pictures

In a post-WWII entertainment world, the late 1940s and ’50s saw the rise of the sci-fi horror craze. It was a time when the biggest thing to fear in theaters wasn’t some vampire in a dark castle or a supernatural beast, but something much more scientific. From alien invader flicks like War of the Worlds and The Thing from Another World, science-gone-wrong movies like The Fly and The Tingler, to cheesy B-movie classics like Tarantula and The Blob, it truly was a unique change for the genre. The atomic age defined this period, and what better film to define this time than the 1954 classic Gojira?

The world was still recovering after the war, and a new era of atomic energy brought the fear of nuclear devastation to an all-time high. It was greatly expressed through the films that came out during this time. Gojira is the pinnacle of this age, a powerful and creative film that uses its titular monster, the towering and iconic Godzilla, as a metaphor for the A-bomb’s devastating result. It’s also become a massive pop-cultural phenomenon that’s still widely watched, and Godzilla himself has remained a recognizable icon who is still featured in films today. Still, this first film will always be the best representative of this iconic point in history.

7

‘Psycho’ (1960)

Image via Paramount Pictures

The 1960s were some of the most transformative years of the 20th century, a time marked by significant cultural change and advancing ideas. Nowhere was this shift better expressed than through cinema, as films were evolving and shaping into the modern moviegoing experience that we know today. When it comes to horror, no film better exemplifies this change more than Sir Alfred Hitchcock‘s groundbreaking proto-slasher masterpiece Psycho.

Hailed as one of the most influential horror movies ever made, Psycho embodies the genre’s remarkable shift towards edgier, bolder horror during the ’60s. This bold approach was outright revolutionary, as many films during this time were lighter and followed much of the still-enforced Hays Code. Psycho dared to break all that, telling a darker, terrifying tale that was more risqué and violent than anything up to that point. It was way ahead of its time and ushered in a new age of terror that’s still prevalent even now.

6

‘The Exorcist’ (1973)

Where the ’60s got the ball rolling and helped shape modern horror, the ’70s were really where things kicked it up a notch. This is arguably the most revered decade for horror, an age marked by wild acclaim and featuring intense classics. Steven Spielberg‘s monster hit Jaws birthed the summer blockbuster, and The Texas Chain Saw Massacre and Halloween kick-started the slasher craze. However, there’s no mentioning this decade without talking about the scariest movie of all time: William Friedkin‘s The Exorcist.

The Exorcist is the ultimate ’70s horror movie, and it’s the most praised and recognizable film to come out of this time. It’s timelessly terrifying, featuring some of the scariest moments in horror history. From Linda Blair‘s bone-chilling performance as the possessed Regan to Krzysztof Penderecki‘s eerily brilliant film score, there’s so much that’s made this seminal picture endlessly horrifying over the years, and its terror can still trump any of the films that come out today.

5

‘A Nightmare on Elm Street’ (1984)

Image via New Line Cinema

Advertisement

The 1980s were a truly exhilarating time to be a movie fan, an age of mega blockbusters and iconic Best Picture winners. The movies let the audience get swept up in the fun, abandoning most pretenses beyond entertainment. It was also where the horror genre reached the height of the slasher craze after it took off in the late ’70s. From Friday the 13th to Child’s Play, most of the thrilling slasher flicks we know and love started here. But, here to represent the peak of slashers and the peak of ’80s horror, is Wes Craven‘s A Nightmare on Elm Street.

A Nightmare on Elm Street rolled into theaters in 1984 and instantly became a pop-cultural phenomenon, a major hit with critics and audiences that turned its sinister killer, Freddy Krueger (Robert Englund), into one of the greatest characters in cinema. Craven’s masterpiece marked a time when slashers absolutely dominated the box office, and today it’s still hailed for its intense scares, legendary characters, and for just overall capturing the spirit of this exciting decade.

4

‘Scream’ (1996)

Image via Dimension Films

Advertisement

Horror went through quite a remarkable change in the 1990s. Like any decade, it also saw extreme highs and major lows. It was when The Silence of the Lambs came out and became the first horror movie to win Best Picture, but it also experienced the most significant dark age, a time when slashers were becoming tired, outdated, and too clichéd. Then everything changed when Wes Craven returned with another game-changer, 1996’s Scream.

Scream came at the perfect time to save the subgenre from irrelevancy, delivering a fresh, bold new story that powerfully poked fun at the horror genre while giving new inspiration. Scream ushered in a new age of meta-horror, where the stories reference other movies and the characters are self-aware and know the tropes that made up the genre. It’s still a huge influence on the slasher and horror comedies that come out in modern cinema, and its impact on cinematic history will likely never be forgotten.

3

‘Saw’ (2004)

Images via Lions Gate Films

Advertisement

A new century brought all kinds of shifts to horror. The 2000s were the peak of experimental horror, where every year they tested the waters to see what would float and become the next biggest thing. Through this ever-advancing time for the genre, up-and-coming filmmaker James Wan dared to push something far edgier and unique, and so his 2004 splatter masterpiece Saw became seen as one of the ultimate horror films of the early century.

Packing some intense scares, a chilling mystery, and a now-legendary and iconic villain, Jigsaw (Tobin Bell), Saw is a recognizable staple of 2000s horror cinema. It was darker, more shocking, and more gruesome than anything really up to that point, and it really elevated the splatter and torture subgenres to the next level of recognition. It’s still a pop-cultural phenomenon more than twenty years later, and its influence really helped shape the genre going further into this century.

2

‘Hereditary’ (2018)

Image via A24

Advertisement

The early 2000s kick-started a new age of horror, and then the next decade brought a new meaning to the genre. Next, we enter the 2010s, and truly, the movement that represented this time was the elevated horror subgenre. Trading jump-scares, loud noises, over-the-top gore, and expensive Hollywood-style productions for quieter, more thematic storytelling, this decade was marked by a return to subtler, more thought-provoking horror. And, truly, what better masterpiece to describe this point than Ari Aster‘s 2018 film Hereditary?

A wickedly intense, highly suspenseful, and unimaginably terrifying thrill ride, Hereditary is now considered to be one of the all-time most twisted horror films in the industry. Its story is perfectly written, the direction is on point, and it features talented stars at the top of their game, giving award-worthy performances. Hereditary greatly represents this terrifying new wave of elevated horror with its tense story that easily creeps under the viewer’s skin. It’s a modern masterpiece whose influence has carried over to the next decade.

1

‘Sinners’ (2025)

Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

Advertisement

Finally, we’ve entered the current era of the 2020s, and boy, have things been interesting. Though we’re only slightly past the mid-point of this decade, it’s safe to say that we’ve certainly entered a new horror renaissance. It’s a time marked by high-quality new stories and a resurgence at the box office, where reboot franchises like Scream and Final Destination have returned to reclaim their dominance, and where freshly creative tales are here to make a name for themselves in the genre. No original horror film demonstrated this approach more than Ryan Coogler‘s Oscar-caliber vampire film Sinners.

This modern masterpiece is the current face of the horror genre, an absolute cinematic achievement that was a mega hit both critically and financially. With a record sixteen nominations, it’s now the most nominated movie in Academy Award history, a testament to how wildly acclaimed and truly brilliant it’s become. Sinners is a symbol of the horror genre’s dominance and influence in this current decade, and if it’s anything to go by, it’s that horror is only going up from here.

North West Signs With Mariah Carey’s Label Gamma

North Expands Her Musical Footprint

North West Trends After Getting Face Tattoos

Kim Kardashian Defends North’s Fashion Choices

Before gushing about her experience inside the Olympic Village, Team USA figure skater Isabeau Levito admitted she had eyes for another one of her sport’s stars.

“Oh my God, someone said my celebrity crush is Cha Jun-hwan, that is so real,” Levito, 18, said in a resurfaced clip from a recent Instagram Live with fellow Team USA figure skater Alysa Liu. 

Liu, 20, responded, “Is this a bit?”

Levito and Cha, 24, were both members of the 2024 Stars on Ice tour, which is where Levito’s affinity for the skater first blossomed. 

Related: Who Is Alysa Liu? What to Know About the Figure Skater’s Comeback Story

Alysa Liu’s incredible comeback story has led her to the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milan and Cortina, Italy, after previously retiring from competitive figure skating. Liu made history as the youngest-ever U.S. Figure Skating champion at just 13 years old and represented Team USA in Beijing at the 2022 Winter Olympics when she was […]

“Everyone’s bit with him was just that he was perfect,” Levito explained. “In the group rehearsals, when everybody was looking bad, everyone would just look at Cha Jun-hwan and say, ‘But he is perfect.’”

Cha, who represents the Republic of Korea, finished in 4th place in the men’s figure skating event at the 2026 Olympics, falling just 0.98 points behind Japan’s Shun Sato, who took home the bronze medal.

The clip of Levito began circulating online after her comments about loving life in the Olympic Village went viral earlier this week. 

“I’ve spent every night in the [Olympic] Village. It’s been everything and more,” Levito told NBC in a video posted on Monday, February 16. “You can’t evict me.”

She added, “I don’t think there’s anything not to enjoy. I haven’t even gotten to compete yet and I feel like my experience is already complete. Not complete, but I’m having a blast. The best time.”

The American star had plenty of time to explore the Village grounds, arriving in Italy weeks before she finally hit the ice to compete in the women’s figure skating short program event on Tuesday, February 17. 

“I feel like I’m exactly where I want to be and I’m so glad that things have aligned and worked out for me to be here,” Levito said. “I’m excited for the opportunity to compete.”

Levito finished in 5th place in the short program, with American Liu in 3rd. Amber Glenn, the third member of Team USA’s Blade Angels, had a disappointing skate and finished in 13th place.

“I feel very good,” Levito told NBC after her performance. “I feel like I skated with the elegance that I wanted to skate with. And I’m very glad that my Olympic debut looked like that … I just felt special.”

Advertisement

Related: What Athletes Have Said About Hooking Up in the Olympic Village Through the Years

Every two years, the summer or winter Olympics bring together the best athletes in the world to compete in the same city and live in the same Olympic village. They’re usually 20-somethings in peak physical fitness, forced into close proximity amid a high-stress, high-stakes environment. It’s ripe for extracurricular activities. In fact, People reports that […]

She continued, “I really love this program. I love the costume, and I love the character that I get to play in this program. So I just feel very confident and very satisfied and happy with myself right now.”

Liu was in a similarly positive mood after her short program on Tuesday. 

“It felt great,” Liu told reporters. “I don’t know if I felt this good because it was Olympic ice, or because my best friend, my siblings, my [dad] and my friends were watching. I don’t know which it is — I’m just really happy, and this moment is really exciting.”

Levito, Liu and Glenn, 26, all return to the ice for the women’s free skate on Thursday, February 19.