Bachelor in Paradise alum, Joe Amabile, is revealing the physical reality of undergoing brain surgery — and fellow cancer survivor Busy Philipps is showing her support.

Posting via his Instagram on Wednesday, September 9, Joe, 40, shared several close-up photos of his brain surgery staples and healing scar in a carousel of images.

“I feel like my scar is coming along pretty nicely,” he captioned the image.

Philipps, 47, commented on the post to share her support after undergoing her own brain surgery in February after doctors found a tumor.

“Omg it looks so good👏👏👏(lol i won’t text you mine from when it got infected.),” the Dawson’s Creek alum wrote. In response, Joe joked, “Yeah, no need to 😂”

In July, Joe shared via Instagram that doctors had found “a blueberry size lesion” on his brain which appeared to be a tumor during an MRI scan.

The Bachelorette alum underwent brain surgery last month to get the lesion removed and tested. On August 6, Joe revealed that doctors “got it all” after operating on his brain. He was later diagnosed with “an astrocytoma, but it’s very low grade.” (Astrocytoma is a type of tumor found on the brain or spinal cord that starts in cells called astrocytes and may result in headaches, seizures, nausea or changes in mood or behavior, according to the Mayo Clinic.)

Meanwhile, Philipps updated fans on her cancer journey earlier this week.

“I got my six-month scan MRI and … no sign of tumor,” Philipps shared on Tuesday, September 8 via an Instagram video.

The actress revealed in August that she had been diagnosed with a grade 2 oligodendroglioma, a rare slow-growing tumor.

During an interview with People, Philipps said that she was recovering at the time. “I’m grateful that I’m alive,” she told the magazine, which reported that she showed no obvious symptoms ahead of her diagnosis.

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Related: Bachelor Nation’s Joe Amabile Has 23 Staples Removed After Brain Surgery

Bachelor in Paradise alum Joe Amabile is documenting the next steps of his brain surgery recovery. “How does it feel, Joe?” Joe’s wife, Serena Pitt, asked in a Tuesday, August 18, social media video as doctors removed 23 stitches from his head. Joe, 40, noted in response that the process “feels, kind of, like nothing.” […]

Last month, Philipps said that she reached out to Joe after being alerted to his health journey, which bore many similarities to her own.

“If you’ve been following Joe Amabile … from The Bachelor, he’s been documenting in real time,” Philipps said via her Instagram Story on August 26. “I reached out to him because several of my friends sent me his original post. We have almost the exact same story — prenuvo scan, found this lesion in our brains, almost the exact same kind of tumor. His is slightly different than mine, we know now. I introduced him to my doctors.”

She continued, “He’s like my brain tumor brother. It’s so weird. But he’s been documenting it in real time. His recovery, he’s just a couple weeks out now. He’s going to run the marathon. He’s doing great. Love you Joe.”

BTS returned to Los Angeles for the final four shows of the North American leg of its “Arirang” tour and left SoFi Stadium with more records to its name.

The K-pop group had spent around five months taking the tour across the continent before the California finale, which drew roughly 282,000 die-hard fans.

This brought its North American audience to an estimated 1.92 million across 31 shows.

BTS returned to North America for a tour that marked another milestone for the K-pop group.

The tour lasted five months, with the band performing 31 shows. It took the group to cities such as El Paso, Mexico City, and New York, where eager longtime fans filled the venues.

In total, an estimated 1.92 million fans attended the concerts, according to the group’s agency, BigHit Music.

BTS Becomes First Act to Play Eight SoFi Stadium Shows

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Drawing 1.92 million fans during a five-month run was not BTS’ only milestone on the North American leg of its tour.

The group also became the first music act to perform eight shows at SoFi Stadium, where it held the final four dates of the run.

Across those four shows, BTS welcomed roughly 282,000 fans to the Los Angeles stadium. Viewers in 177 countries also watched the performances through Weverse, the K-pop fan community platform.

Including attendance from its previous shows in 2021, BTS has now drawn approximately 496,000 fans to SoFi Stadium, setting the highest cumulative attendance for any act at the venue.

Fans Serenade Jungkook and RM at LA Shows

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BTS fans who visited SoFi Stadium had another reason to celebrate, as the concerts fell on or near the birthdays of members Jungkook and RM.

Jungkook’s birthday fell on September 1, while RM will celebrate his on September 12. Fans serenaded Jungkook at the show on his birthday, while RM got an early celebration on September 6.

The celebrations extended beyond the singing, as fans lit up the stadium in gold and blue. The colors paid homage to Jungkook’s “Golden” and RM’s “Indigo” solo albums.

The group later thanked fans during its closing remarks, reflecting on how quickly the time had passed and expressing hope of staying connected with them wherever they were.

BTS Topples The Rolling Stones’ Monthly Touring Record

During the tour, BTS broke a record previously held by The Rolling Stones.

The group grossed $127.8 million and sold 641,000 tickets across 12 shows between May 2 and May 28.

That total exceeded the record The Rolling Stones set in August 2019 during their No Filter Tour by more than $30 million.

The result made BTS the month’s highest-grossing and best-selling touring act for the second consecutive month.

More significantly, the May figures gave BTS the biggest monthly gross by a group since Billboard’s Top Tours chart began in 2019.

BTS’ Arirang Shatters Spotify Records Upon Release

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Before the tour, BTS made an impact on streaming platforms when “Arirang” arrived in March.

At the time of its release, the album became Spotify’s most-streamed album in a single day in 2026 and set a single-day record for a K-pop album.

It earned 110 million filtered streams on its first day and 545 million streams during its first week.

One of its songs, “SWIM,” also reached 100 million Spotify streams in eight days, making it one of the fastest songs to reach the milestone in 2026.

The album had also generated significant interest before its release, with Spotify reporting more than five million pre-saves on its Countdown Page.

Summer meant wearing sneakers daily, but now that it’s (basically) fall, I’m ready for new go-to shoes. Instead of opting for boring black boots, I’m copying the New York rich girls on Pinterest with these 13 sleek, luxe-looking styles.

From loafers and flats to mules and slingbacks, these elevated fall shoes give sporty kicks a run for their money — and they don’t cost much of it. My favorite styles from Dr. Scholl’s, Vionic, Sam Edelman and more scream ‘expensive’ yet start at only $8! Read on to see the chicest fall looks on my radar this season.

13 Rich-Girl Fall Shoes to Replace Sneakers — From $8

1. My Favorite: This slingback style gives boring flats a modern twist, especially with the pointed toe and rich nude color.

2. Brown Trend: Everyone’s rocking chocolate brown lately, and these matte penny loafers nail the aesthetic. The intricate stitching gives them a high-end appearance.

3. Ballerina Babe: Ever since Nicole Kidman wore ballerina sneakers, I’ve been eyeing this bow-lace pair. They’re much more chic than trainers.

4. Luxe Leopard: Leopard print is totally back, so it’s no wonder these classy, sassy flats are selling out. I also adore the metal hardware on top.

5. Busy Mornings: When you’re running out the door, you’ll be glad to have these easy suede mules that slip on in seconds. I promise, they’ll instantly add polish your outfit.

6. Real Leather: If you’re serious about dressing expensive, opt for these leather Vionic loafers. The hidden arch support is just a bonus.

7. Glam Girl: Become the center of attention in these shiny gold shoes that feature a slingback strap, pointed toe and modest 3-inch block heel.

8. Total Classic: Look no further for shoes you’ll wear from now through 2030. These timeless Mary Janes never go out of style.

9. Wine Night: These wine-colored mule flats make even a tee and jeans look expensive. The glossy finish seals the deal.

10. Secret Support: Calling comfort connoisseurs! Not only do these Dr. Scholl’s loafers have a cute tassel accent, but they also feature plenty of cushioning.

11. Confidence Boost: Swap flats for these boutique-like kitten heels and watch your confidence (and height) skyrocket.

12. Diamond in the Rough: I scoured DSW’s fall collection to find these bejeweled Sam Edelman flats that truly go with everything.

13. Oddly Versatile: Give your wardrobe a pop of color with these oddly versatile blue loafers. They’re equally pretty and playful.

UsNow Fall Sale Alert: These chic fashion finds are up to 60% off – plus free shipping

Welcome to fall with our biggest sale of the season. Our favorite dresses, tops, handbags, and shoes are all on sale + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they’re gone.

Shop the UsNow Fall Sale →

Related: Ditch the Boots — Rich Girls Are Wearing These Luxe-Looking Shoes in 2026

When September hits, you may think it’s time to pull out your Chelsea boots. Well, not this year. Rich girls in New York, London and beyond are wearing elevated, luxe-looking shoes instead, and we found 13 chic pairs that capture the aesthetic. These polished sneakerinas, Mary Janes, mules and more are the ticket to high-class […]

Workout clothes have officially become everyday clothes, and Hillary Duff just gave Us another reason to embrace the crossover. The actress stepped out in the Free People Go To Striped Sports Bra, a sporty $48 top that’s cute enough for the gym, running errands or even when your workout plans never quite materialize. Suddenly, our usual black sports bras are starting to feel a little bit boring.

Duff was spotted wearing her Free People sports bra after a workout, pairing the striped style with leggings and low-profile sneakers for an easy off-duty look. Shockingly, the triple-threat’s top is still available for purchase, so you can recreate her sporty style without the hassle of hunting down a quality lookalike.

Get the Free People Go To Striped Sports Bra for $48 at Free People! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

A playful striped design instantly separates this sports bra from the sea of plain workout tops already taking up space in your drawer. The scoop-neck silhouette has a sporty, retro-inspired look, while the cropped length makes it easy to style with your favorite high-rise leggings or bike shorts.

Related: Hilary Duff Wore the Sleek, Cool-Girl Sneakers Dominating 2026

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When one A-lister wears a shoe style, we take notes. When all of our favorite celebrity rich moms wear the same one, we add it to our cart immediately, as is the case with Hilary Duff‘s latest look. Her chic sneakers nail the low-profile Adidas trend, and we found her exact pair at Nordstrom! These […]

You don’t have to reserve this pick for workouts, either. Throw an oversized zip-up or button-down on top for coffee runs and daily errands, or pair it with relaxed sweatpants when comfort is the only goal. On warmer days, it’s cute enough to stand on its own with casual shorts and sneakers. Plus, it comes in so many color combinations that there’s an option for everyone.

Shoppers are so impressed that buying just one apparently isn’t always enough. “I have 5 of these,” wrote one five-star reviewer. “I loved the first one so much I ordered another and then just kept going.”

Another shopper confirmed its appeal extends well beyond workouts. “This top is so cute and perfect just for a lazy day or going for a run,” they wrote, making a strong case for keeping it in your rotation regardless of what the day has in store.

If your activewear drawer could use something a little more fun than another basic sports bra, follow Duff’s lead while her exact striped style is still available. At $48, it’s the kind of versatile Free People find you might end up wanting multiples, too.

Get the Free People Go To Striped Sports Bra for $48 at Free People! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

UsNow Fall Sale Alert: These chic fashion finds are up to 60% off – plus free shipping

Welcome to fall with our biggest sale of the season. Our favorite dresses, tops, handbags, and shoes are all on sale + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they’re gone.

Shop the UsNow Fall Sale —>

Related: Free People-Style Activewear That Make Workouts and Errands Look Chic

Bohemian style that’s effortlessly cool is exactly the kind of vibe we’re going for when piecing together an everyday athleisure collection. The only problem? The California-esque style can sometimes come with a hefty price tag, especially when browsing elevated retailers like Free People. Now, that doesn’t mean we have to give up on the carefree […]

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Star Trek: Strange New Worlds has featured a variety of intriguing guest stars over its four-season run; for one, this season saw Days of Our Lives legend Deidre Hall drop in for the show’s soap-opera-themed episode, “Like Chronitons Through the Hourglass.” Now, one of the show’s most beloved guest stars is set to return to the show in the future, as revealed by star Christina Chong at a panel at last weekend’s Tampa Bay Comic Con moderated by Collider’s Maggie Lovitt.

On the series, Chong plays La’an Noonien-Singh, a descendant of genetically-enhanced dictator Khan Noonien-Singh, one of Star Trek‘s most infamous villains. The survivor of a horrific attack by the reptilian Gorn aliens, she now serves as the chief of security aboard the USS Enterprise. The businesslike La’an is quite different from her effervescent portrayer, who managed to get one of her best friends a role on the series. Chong’s beloved dog Runa Ewok, named after the cuddly critters from Return of the Jedi, is officially slated to make a return appearance. Sadly, she couldn’t attend the panel in person, thanks to a customs issue, but her owner was happy to speak on her behalf: “She may or may not be appearing on the show very soon, so keep an eye out for that, in a big way. I’m very excited for you to see that.”

Runa previously appeared on the first-season Strange New Worlds episode “The Elysian Kingdom.” When a powerful entity turns the Enterprise into a storybook kingdom, La’an becomes the kind-hearted Princess Thalia and is never seen without her furry companion. Chong explained how Runa landed that role with the power of social media. “During the first season we had, during the quarantine before the show actually started, I created an Instagram page for her,” Chong explained. “And I had to decide what character she was going to be. I know, she wanted to be an actress, and wants to get an audition for the show, so I started doing her posts like that. If you go to her Instagram, you’ll see, from the beginning, how I was like setting it all up.”

When it came time for her big moment, Chong had some help from castmate Celia Rose Gooding, who plays Uhura, in getting Runa on-screen. She told the audience:

“And then obviously, work colleagues would follow her and look at her page, and they would be like ‘Why don’t you just ask if she can be on the show?’ I’m like, ‘Oh yeah, that’s a good idea, why don’t I just ask?’ And then the script came out for the fantasy episode of Season 1, and I was like ‘Oh my gosh, this is the perfect episode for her, she can be the princess’ dog.’ And so I asked them, and they were like, ‘Is this like a morale thing, or what is this?’ I was like ‘Yeah yeah yeah.’ So this was around Covid, we were all really struggling, and we needed a dog on set. Celia was behind me, and was all ‘Yeah, we all want it, we all want the dog.’ So the next time a draft came out, the dog was in it.”

What Other Dogs Have Starred on ‘Star Trek’?

Surprisingly, there have been several canine guest stars on Star Trek, dating back to The Original Series; in the episode “The Enemy Within,” an alien canine is played by a costumed puppy, complete with a horn on its forehead. Of course, Star Trek‘s most prominent pooch is Porthos, the prized beagle of Captain Jonathan Archer (Scott Bakula) on Star Trek: Enterprise. Despite the impracticalities of keeping a dog aboard a spaceship, Porthos (who was played by several different canine thespians) remained at Archer’s side for all four seasons of the series. More recently, Jean-Luc Picard (Patrick Stewart) owned a dog named Number One after his preferred sobriquet for Will Riker on Star Trek: Picard.

The first eight episodes of Season 4 of Strange New Worlds are now streaming on Paramount+; the season finale is slated to premiere on September 24. Stay tuned to Collider for future updates.

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Release Date

2022 – 2027-00-00

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Network

Paramount+

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Showrunner

Henry Alonso Myers, Akiva Goldsman

Directors

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Dan Liu, Amanda Row, Maja Vrvilo, Akiva Goldsman, Dermott Downs, Eduardo Sánchez, Jeffrey W. Byrd, Jonathan Frakes, Jordan Canning, Leslie Hope, Valerie Weiss, Sydney Freeland, Christopher J. Byrne, Rachel Leiterman

Writers

Onitra Johnson

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Cassie and her husband Alex Fine made a rare public appearance together more than a year after testifying at the high-profile trial involving her ex, Sean “Diddy” Combs.

The singer, whose real name is Casandra Ventura, stepped out to support Fine, 33, at the Season 2 premiere of MobLand at Odeon Luxe Leicester Square in London on Thursday, September 10. (Fine plays Donnie in the crime drama, which stars Tom Hardy, Pierce Brosnan and Helen Mirren.)

Cassie, 40, stunned in a grey, figure-hugging dress while posing alongside Fine, who opted for an all-black ensemble.

The couple, who tied the knot in 2019, share two daughters, Frankie Stone Fine, 6 and Sunny Cinco Fine, 5, and a son who was born in May 2025 — just weeks after her testimony in the Diddy trial. After the case concluded, Cassie and Fine have mostly kept out of the limelight.

Combs was arrested in September 2024 and charged with racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution. For four days, a heavily pregnant Cassie testified against Diddy, claiming the rapper physically and sexually abused her throughout their on-again, off-again relationship from 2007 to 2018. (Diddy has denied all the allegations against him.)

Diddy was ultimately found guilty of transportation for prostitution, though he was acquitted of the more severe charges. He was sentenced to four years in federal prison. His legal team has attempted to appeal the conviction.

Fine was by Cassie’s side throughout the legal ordeal. After Cassie’s 20 hours of testimony, Fine supported his wife via a statement read by his attorney Douglas Wigdo outside the courthouse.

“Over the past five days, the world has gotten to witness the strength and bravery of my wife freeing herself of her past,” Fine said in the May 2025 statement. “There has been speculation online surrounding how it must feel for me to sit there and listen to my wife’s testimony.”

Fine continued, “I have felt so many things sitting there. I have felt tremendous pride and overwhelming love for Cass. I have felt profound anger that she has been subjected to sitting in front of a person who tried to break her.”

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Related: Cassie Shares Rare Social Post After Diddy Trial to Honor Husband Alex Fine

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Singer Cassie is sharing a rare social media post in honor of her husband, Alex Fine, following her emotional and at times disturbing testimony in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ high-profile sex trafficking trial. “Happy Father’s Day,” Cassie, real name Cassandra Ventura, wrote in four separate posts shared via her Instagram Stories on Sunday, June 21. “We […]

He did not name Diddy, but Fine’s statement seemingly took aim at the disgraced music mogul rapper and others who tried to harm Cassie: “So to him and all of those who helped him along the way, please know this. You did not. You did not break her spirit, nor her smile, that lights up every room. You did not break the soul of a mother who gives the best hugs and plays the silliest games with our little girls. You did not break the woman who has made me a better man.”

Since the trial, the couple appear to have left the U.S. behind for good. In court documents obtained by Us in June 2026, Cassie declared that she is “not a resident of California.”

The singer now lives “outside of the United States” and does “not intend to move back,” per the docs.

Folks are calling an Ohio waiter a “hero” after a video captured him stopping a man from shooting his ex-wife in a busy restaurant. Tracy Cole Jr. was working in a restaurant in downtown Toledo when he tackled the man in heroic footage.

RELATED: Ohio Man Found Incompetent To Stand Trial After 16 Grandchildren Were Rescued From NASTY Living Conditions (MUGSHOT)

Waiter Stops Man From Shooting Ex-Wife In Ohio Restaurant

Heroic footage captured Cole stopping a man as he tried to shoot his ex-wife while she dined at the downtown eatery Sabira, per ABC News4. The drama unfolded on April 11, 2025.

Matthew Exton is seen in the clip pointing a gun at his ex-wife’s head, pulling the trigger. However, the safety was still on, and as he fumbled with the weapon, Cole came to the rescue.

Footage shows Cole walking into the frame as he sees Exton with the gun. Cole immediately ran toward Exton and tackled him from behind. Other people at the table jumped in to assist Cole, and Exton was arrested.

Exton Also Spat At Ex-Wife

Exton was reportedly drinking at a venue nearby when he witnessed his ex-wife and her family at the downtown restaurant. Before the attempted shooting, Exton allegedly ordered a drink to be sent to her table. He then spat toward the group before leaving.

Furthermore, he returned to the restaurant with a gun and pointed it at his ex-wife, who yelled, “gun,” according to WMGT News.

Exton’s ex-wife’s name is being withheld from reports. However, she made a statement in a protective order, per NBC News.

“The gun made rapid ‘click’ noises as he pulled the trigger,” she reportedly recalled.

Exton reportedly denied trying to shoot his ex-wife.

“I did not fire,” Exton said. “I did not hurt her. I did not try to hurt her.”

Nevertheless, he was found guilty of attempted murder and assault charges. The former attorney is scheduled for sentencing later in September.

Tracy Cole Jr. Speaks Out

Cole told WMGT News what he was thinking in the moment he saw Exton pull the gun’s trigger. Additionally, he added that he does not consider himself a hero, even though he felt his life was in danger when he jumped Exton.

“The only thing that went through my mind was that I’m gonna die,” Cole recalled. “It’s hard when I watch the video, and I see him pull the trigger… It’s just hard to see that and know that it 110% could have gone a completely different way.”

Lucas County Prosecuting Attorney Julia Bates said that Exton tried to publicly execute his ex, per NBC News.

“Nothing in their training and soft openings at the restaurant could have prepared the staff for what walked through that door,” Bates said. “The defendant did not come with the intention of having a meal. He came with anger in him and with the intention to commit a public execution of his ex-wife at the restaurant that day.”

RELATED: Prayers Up! Mass Shootings In Chicago & Trenton, New Jersey Reportedly Leave 3 Dead And 18 Injured (VIDEOS)

For a fantasy fan, there are few better weekend plans than sitting down with an incredible show and binge-watching the whole thing in just a couple of sittings. This is a genre that, at its best, can be incredibly addictive, and over the years, many TV creatives have taken advantage of that and delivered some of the most irresistibly entertaining genre shows the small screen has ever seen.

From pure fantasy masterpieces that are still ongoing, such as A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, to science fantasy hybrids that have already delivered their resounding finales, like Arcane, as long as these fantasy shows run for 20 hours or less in total, they’re perfectly possible to binge over the course of a single delightful weekend.

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‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ (2026–Present)

Image via HBO

Of course, it’s typically most enjoyable to do a weekend binge of a fantasy show that’s already complete; but it’s also perfectly valid to want to catch up with a currently ongoing fantasy gem, and there are currently few ongoing fantasy shows better than A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms. It has hardly been a surprise just how prolific the Game of Thrones franchise has been following the success of the original HBO show, but even fans of the series may be surprised by how good this prequel spin-off is.

It’s one of the best fantasy shows with under 40 episodes, and even though it doesn’t yet have the benefit of a satisfying conclusion, the three-and-a-half hours of runtime of its surprisingly breezy first season should nevertheless make for an incredible Saturday night watch. Will it eventually become too long to binge in a single weekend? Perhaps. As such, now’s about as great a time as ever for those who haven’t watched it to dive right in.

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‘The Lost Room’ (2006)

Image via SyFy

The 2000s were the true peak and Golden Age of science fiction television, at least in North America. As such, the genre proved to be immensely prolific throughout those 10 years, which makes it unsurprising that many great sci-fi series ended up slipping under the radar. Case in point: The Lost Room, one of those sci-fi miniseries that are true masterpieces.

One of Syfy’s best miniseries ever, The Lost Room is science fantasy at its most technically dazzling, wonderfully written, and charmingly imaginative. A mere four-and-a-half hours are all it takes for this exceptional cult classic to deliver an awfully underappreciated mystery box thriller whose fast pacing, creative fantasy elements, and incredible cast all make it essential viewing for fans of the genre.

8

‘Pushing Daisies’ (2007–Present)

Image via ABC

Most of history’s best fantasy shows are dramas, but that’s not to demerit exceptional fantasy comedies like Pushing Daisies. One of those forgotten fantasy shows that are perfect from start to finish, this quirky cult classic was designed as a “forensic fairy tale,” and even though it was canceled after only two short-lived seasons, a third is currently being developed and waiting to be properly greenlit.

The show had to put together a rushed and not-entirely-satisfying conclusion due to being canceled, so it may not be the most thoroughly fulfilling of weekend binges; but it’s all nonetheless so clever, so gleefully idiosyncratic, and so irresistibly funny that it’s easy to ignore any shortcomings. Pushing Daisies offers 15-and-a-half hours of pure whimsy and a surprisingly effective balance between heartfelt drama and laugh-out-loud comedy.

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‘Ghosts’ (2019–2023)

Image via BBC

As if any more proof were needed of just how exceptional fantasy comedy TV shows can be, there’s also the British sitcom Ghosts, one of the best fantasy shows to binge in one week. The haunted house genre has provided several of the scariest stories in the history of horror, but in this instance, what’s proven beyond a shadow of a doubt is that ghost stories can be absolutely hilarious too.

Though it ran for five seasons, those looking for a less daunting weekend binge shouldn’t be scared of Ghosts: It’s only about 15 hours long, which should provide a perfectly entertaining weekend. Combining its comedically brilliant writing with an ensemble that’s nothing short of perfect, it’s a clever (and quintessentially British) farce which all fans of ghost-focused fantasy should add to their watchlist.

6

‘Over the Garden Wall’ (2014)

Image via Cartoon Network

Unfortunately, there are many television lovers out there who tend to look down on animation as a lesser form of content, but not fantasy fans. How could they, when there exist shows like the masterful miniseries Over the Garden Wall? The Cartoon Network’s first miniseries ever, this cult classic only keeps getting better with age.

Indeed, Over the Garden Wall is one of the best animated miniseries of all time, and proof that even the most coldhearted of adult fantasy fans can enjoy fantasy cartoons mostly aimed at children when they’re done with this level of passion and artistry. Tonally and thematically masterful, this two-hour series is easier to watch in a single sitting than several of the best fantasy films of all time—and it can even be said to be superior to a lot of them.

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‘One Hundred Years of Solitude’ (2024–2026)

Image via Netflix

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With the rise of magical realism—blending fantastical elements into realistic, even mundane settings—Latin America became the epicenter of world literature between the 1960s and 1970s, producing masterpieces of the caliber of Colombian author Gabriel García Márquez‘s undisputed magnum opus: One Hundred Years of Solitude, the greatest work of literature to grace the Spanish language since Don Quixote. Netflix’s television adaptation may not be quite as groundbreaking, legendary, or downright flawless, but it sure is worth checking out.

No matter where they’re from, what kinds of fantasy stories they tend to like, or even whether they’re familiar with the source material or not even in the slightest, anyone and everyone who loves this genre should check out Netflix’s One Hundred Years of Solitude. It’s no surprise that one of the best magical realism books of all time inspired one of the best magical realism TV shows of all time, one that can be watched in just around 15 hours.

4

‘Death Note’ (2006–2007)

Image via Madhouse

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Anime television started becoming more and more mainstream throughout the entire world between the late ’90s and early 2000s. By the time Death Note came into the picture, the medium was already considerably popular throughout the globe, making the level of success that it achieved much less surprising, though not any less admirable. After all, it’s one of the most perfect anime of the last 30 years that we’re talking about here.

In just about 18 hours and 30 minutes, fans of animated television will be treated to this nearly-perfect adaptation of Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata‘s manga series. Full of gripping tension, high stakes, and psychologically overwhelming suspense, this is one of the most unforgettable cat-and-mouse thriller stories that the small screen has ever housed.

3

‘Garth Marenghi’s Darkplace’ (2004)

Image via Channel 4

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Part sci-fi, part fantasy, part horror, and 100% genius, Garth Marenghi’s Darkplace is one of the greatest parody shows in the history of television. Satirizing low-budget horror television from the ’80s and poking fun at the pompous egos who created them, this delightfully hilarious British comedy is one of those classic sitcoms better than most modern shows.

But Garth Marenghi’s Darkplace is very far from a one-trick pony, either comedically or as a multi-layered satire. It’s full of exquisite twists and effective surprises, making it a perfectly varied and fun weekend activity to engage in over the course of just around three hours. Smart, star-studded, and genius in its meta aspects, it’s a genre series that anyone looking for a good laugh should watch at least once.

2

‘Gravity Falls’ (2012–2016)

Image via Disney Channel

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Further proof that fantasy cartoons aimed at children can absolutely work for grown-ups as well, Gravity Falls may very well be the biggest cult classic that the Disney Channel ever produced. It is, after all, one of those animated shows without any significant flaws, a delightfully funny and inventive series which anyone who loves genre storytelling should be perfectly capable of enjoying—regardless of their age.

Inspired by the likes of Twin Peaks and The X-Files, Gravity Falls is a series intimately tied to the history of the great fantasy, sci-fi, and horror shows from the past, making it essential viewing for anyone who loves these genres. Colorful and full of vibrant lore and world-building, it’s a show that constantly amazes with the sheer depth of its writing, how compelling its characters are, and how fun each of its 20 hours of runtime is.

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‘Arcane’ (2021–2024)

Image via Netflix

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Who could have possibly predicted that a Netflix series based on League of Legends, of all video games, would end up becoming the single most universally acclaimed animated show of the 2020s so far? Arcane is just that good, bolstered by an incredible blend of steampunk sci-fi and fantasy elements that help deliver a hard-hitting story about class, family, and fate.

All in all, it’s one of the most perfect fantasy shows of the last 20 years, the sort of animated series that has something in it for everyone. Jaw-dropping visuals, nail-biting action, fascinating lore and world-building, compelling character development, and a killer soundtrack are but a few of the reasons why anyone who watches Arcane inevitably ends up falling in love with it. With just a little over 12 hours on their hands and a weekend to sit down in pure enjoyment, anyone could see what all the hype is about.

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Arcane

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Release Date

2021 – 2024

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Network

Netflix

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Showrunner

Christian Linke

Directors

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Barth Maunoury, Marietta Ren, Christelle Abgrall

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For many broadcasters, cutting back on work would signal the start of a slowdown. For Howard Stern, however, the latest changes to his media empire are being framed as the start of something entirely different. 

As the radio icon prepares to launch a new HBO Max chapter while significantly reducing his SiriusXM workload, the person arguably most affected by the move is thrilled about it. According to wife Beth Stern, the shake-up isn’t creating problems at home, but creating opportunities.

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While industry observers have focused on channel changes, staffing cuts, and Howard Stern’s reduced radio schedule, Beth sees the situation through a far more personal lens.

Speaking during New York Fashion Week while attending Alice + Olivia’s latest showcase, Beth couldn’t hide her excitement when discussing Howard’s upcoming HBO Max venture.

“Oh my gosh, it’s such a wonderful [thing] – I mean, so Howard!” she told the Daily Mail.

The change means Howard will now broadcast just one live SiriusXM show each week before adding a separate HBO Max program on Thursdays. 

With Andy Cohen taking over Howard’s former 101 channel and the latter scaling back from two weekly shows to one, Beth admitted the arrangement comes with an unexpected benefit.

“It’s actually great for me, because he’s now going to start only working one day a week – so I get more Howard at home and he’s still connected to the world, so it’s a win-win for all of us,” she explained.

Howard’s Hamptons Life Is Looking More Permanent Than Ever

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The extra time at home comes as the couple continue to spend most of their days at their Hamptons residence, where Howard Stern has largely worked since the pandemic reshaped his broadcasting routine in 2020.

Beth revealed they still travel back and forth when necessary, but the Hamptons has clearly become the center of their world. It is also where the comedian’s creative side continues to flourish.

According to Beth, her husband remains incredibly thoughtful, frequently creating artwork for her. 

Many of his paintings feature the animals they care for together, but his next project appears to have a more personal inspiration.

“They’re usually of our animals, and so he’s now going to be working on a butterfly for me because I love butterflies,” Beth noted. She added, “I saw him taking pictures of a butterfly – I think he’s going to be painting me a butterfly.”

Howard Stern’s New Chapter Arrives As SiriusXM Enters A New Era

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Behind the scenes, Howard’s career transition has come with broader changes at SiriusXM.

The reduction in programming reportedly led the company to lay off a dozen staff members this summer, including longtime writer Benjy Bronk. 

Yet company executives remain enthusiastic about the SiriusXM-HBO Max partnership. 

In an August 31 news release, SiriusXM President and Chief Content Officer Scott Greenstein praised the move, saying, “There’s simply no one like Howard, and the start of his new season is another exciting chapter in an extraordinary run.”

Greenstein also said the company was “proud … that Howard, HBO Max and SiriusXM have now teamed up to create a compelling new video version of his show.”

More From The Blast

Howard Sees HBO Max Deal As Vindication After SiriusXM Shake-Up

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If there was any doubt that Howard Stern viewed the recent shakeup at SiriusXM as a demotion, those closest to the radio legend are now making it clear he sees it very differently. 

The Blast explained that after losing Howard 101, reducing his live schedule to one show per week, and watching dozens of staffers depart amid restructuring, many critics assumed Stern’s influence was fading. 

Instead, insiders revealed that the broadcaster treated his HBO Max partnership as proof that he remained one of the most powerful voices in media. 

According to the report, Howard was energized by the deal, which would bring filmed versions of “The Howard Stern Show” to HBO Max each week following their SiriusXM broadcasts. 

An insider explained that the 72-year-old viewed the move as validation after years of speculation about his future. 

“Howard is in a really good mood with his new HBO deal,” the source said, adding, “He feels that it is a big middle finger to all his critics who either want him done or think that he is done.” 

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While Howard is celebrating a new streaming future, some longtime listeners are mourning the loss of one of the show’s most beloved traditions.

Among the casualties of the show’s restructuring is the Emotional Friends League, the fantasy football competition that became a recurring source of drama, feuds, and comedy on “The Howard Stern Show” for nearly two decades. 

The news was revealed by actor and longtime Howard Stern contributor Michael Rapaport, who confirmed the league’s sudden end on his podcast. 

“It’s done,” Rapaport told “I Am Rapaport” listeners while reflecting on the league’s legacy. He called it “one of the greatest” and “most famous fantasy football leagues.” 

On another occasion, he was even more blunt. “Historical. It’s done. One of the greatest fantasy football leagues ever,” Rapaport said before adding, “Motherf–kers just can’t do it anymore.” 

The league had become a staple of Stern Show culture since 2008. Staff members, producers, and on-air personalities routinely turned fantasy football disagreements into entertaining radio segments. 

Rapaport himself served as commissioner and frequently helped fuel the rivalries that made the league a fan favorite.

Brooks Nader going sans top in the presence of her family caused a stir online last month.

The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model, 29, ditched her bikini top and rocked nothing but white crochet bottoms on a boat vacation with her dad Breaux Nader, mom Holland Nader and sister Sarah Jane Nader.

After photos of the getaway, which took place in Sardinia, Italy on August 9, went viral and stirred up a fierce debate, Brooks addressed critics who suggested it was inappropriate to be topless, particularly in front of her father.

“I had the time of my freaking life,” Brooks said in an Entertainment Tonight interview posted via Instagram on Thursday, September 10. “I don’t care if I’m not from Europe. I’m from Louisiana. I grew up in an all-girl household. We’re always naked together as sisters.”

Brooks insisted that her dad had no issues with being around her when she was topless.

“My dad’s half blind, so he didn’t even notice,” she said. “He was like, ‘I don’t care.’”

“He has selective hearing and selective seeing,” Brooks added. “I was just having the time of my life and really not thinking that anyone was documenting some of it, but we love it. It’s great.”

At the time, social media users had mixed opinions on her lack of attire for the family boat outing.

“Mom and sister is one thing but the dad and brother is crazy,” one person commenting on a clip shared via TMZ’s TikTok account. Another added, “Topless in front of her dad is strange, but I don’t see an issue with mom and sisters.” A third commented, “Being topless in front your family IS weird wtf are ppl talking about.”

Others didn’t see what the big deal was and defended Brooks stripping off while family were around. “How is this a problem? Men are topless all the time,” a person commented. Another wrote, “This is very normal in a lot of countries.” A third fan chimed in, “Idc her choice bye.”

The Love Thy Nader star has since taken the viral moment in her stride, laughing off the comments in an Instagram Stories post shared on August 18.

Related: Brooks Nader Goes Topless During Family Trip, Dad Looks Unfazed

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​​The Naders are a tight knit family. Brooks Nader was recently seen ditching her bikini top while spending time with her sister Sarah Jane Nader and their parents, dad Breaux Nader and mom Holland Nader. In a viral clip shared via TMZ’s TikTok, the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model was spotted wearing nothing but white crochet […]

Brooks clapped back by sharing a photo of herself jumping off a boat and into the water fully clothed and covered up.

“Are we happy now?” Brooks joked in the post’s caption.

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While Brooks’ choice to free the nip on her family getaway appeared to be intentional, the Baywatch star has suffered a few wardrobe malfunctions in the past.

In November 2025, Brooks poked fun at her public nip slips while speaking to Us.

“I have so many,” she admitted at the time. After being asked if she’s ever had a wardrobe malfunction on purpose, Brooks replied, “No! Whenever the actual areola is popping out, it’s not intentional.”