Euphoria creator Sam Levinson is addressing the intense online backlash surrounding Sydney Sweeney’s character, Cassie Howard, and her season 3 OnlyFans character arc.

“If you look at OnlyFans, it is making as much money as Hollywood. I mean, essentially it’s on par,” Levinson, 41, said on the Friday, June 19, episode of Real Time With Bill Maher about the storyline and the swift condemnation it received from fans of the hit HBO Max series and real-life sex workers alike.

“It’s not a niche business, it is a massive enterprise,” he continued. “And so if you’re young, you’re going … ‘I don’t want to go work in a nine to five at this place or that thing. Well, maybe I can just start taking photos of myself?’”

In the third and final season of Euphoria, Sweeney’s Cassie films herself in a slew of naked or near-naked scenes in which she cosplays various sexual fantasies for her online clients and admirers, including adult baby play, foot fetishes, dominatrix work and more. For many of the scenes, Sweeney was topless or near-naked, sparking online backlash about how both her and her character were portrayed on screen.

“She has a need to be validated by other people,” Sweeney, 38, told Vanity Fair in a June interview. “She doesn’t know how to love herself unless someone else loves her. So I understand how Sam got her to where she was in season 3. I think she was more excited by the idea of these people loving her and knowing who she is and feeling like her world isn’t small.”

She continued at the time, “He actually, as we were finishing up season 2, started hinting at different ideas that he was putting together for season 3. And it was very similar to season 1 and season 2, he would call me, usually a few weeks after we wrapped, and he pitched me the entire idea. So I knew years before we started filming season 2 that I would be married to Nate, we’d be living in a suburban neighborhood and Cassie would be crazier than ever.”

On Friday, Levinson said that as a creator he was interested in exploring the “long-term consequences” of online sex work, like OnlyFans.

“What happens when you know, as a young person, you’re on Instagram … and you’re told that you’re the product, you’re the brand, and now you’re 18 years old, and you’re going, well, ‘How do I make money?’” he said. “And I just thought chasing that desire, that kind of fast cash, was an interesting thing to kind of explore.”

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Related: Sydney Sweeney Marks ‘Euphoria’ Season 3 Finale With Near-Total Nude Photo

Sydney Sweeney is seemingly saying goodbye to Euphoria season 3 much like her on-screen character, Cassie Howard — with a bang. “It’s called… acting,” Sweeney, 28, wrote via Instagram on Sunday, May 31, alongside several behind-the-scenes and on-screen photos of the actress during what many believe to be the final season of the hit HBO […]

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He added of the backlash, “You know, we take a fairly critical look at it. It hollows out the individual. You know, you’re constantly just depending on the likes and external validation.”

Levinson also discussed what he said is an added layer to Sweeney’s character’s arch — social media and how pervasive the online influencer culture can be for young people.

“I mean, if you’re constantly taking photos of yourself and selling yourself online,” he explained, “it’s the natural evolution of it.”

Holly Ramsay and Olympic swimmer Adam Peaty are preparing to become parents. The couple announced on Saturday, June 20, that they are expecting their first child together, sharing the exciting news on Instagram alongside a series of photos. Holly revealed the pair are expecting a baby girl, writing, “Baby Ramsay-Peaty coming December 2026. We can’t wait to meet our baby girl.” The pregnancy news comes less than a year after the couple tied the knot in a romantic ceremony at England’s historic Bath Abbey.

While this will be Holly’s first child, Peaty has spoken candidly in the past about how becoming a father changed his life. Back in 2020, the Olympic gold medalist described parenthood as one of the most meaningful experiences he had ever experienced.

“I knew everything was going to change from there, but it’s been amazing,” Peaty told the BBC. “Everyone’s thinking it was an accident, but that’s not the case. It’s one of the most beautiful things you can do together, and we’ve already sorted the nursery.”

The following year, he doubled down on those sentiments while reflecting on how fatherhood shifted his priorities. “The most rewarding and brilliant thing” he’s experienced, Peaty told The Independent in 2021. “I make decisions now based on how he’s going to perceive it [and] what matters in the long-term for him. It’s less self and more him.”

Holly Ramsay Called Adam Peaty Her ‘Best Friend’ After Engagement

The pregnancy announcement comes nearly six months after Holly and Peaty exchanged vows during a lavish ceremony at England’s historic Bath Abbey on December 27, 2025.

For the special occasion, Holly wore a custom-designed Elie Saab wedding gown featuring long sleeves, a dramatic full skirt, and an elegant circular train. Ahead of the wedding, she told British Vogue that she envisioned a timeless, feminine look inspired by iconic royal and Hollywood brides, citing both Grace Kelly and Princess Kate as influences in her search for the perfect dress.

“I’m truly so lucky being able to walk this beautiful bride down the aisle and gaining an incredible son-in-law @adamramsaypeaty!” the celebrity chef wrote on Instagram at the time. “I love you so much @hollyramsaypeaty and couldn’t be a prouder dad.”

Holly Ramsay Gushed Over Adam Peaty Before Their Wedding

Before saying “I do,” Holly publicly gushed over Peaty following their September 2024 engagement. “I am marrying my best friend. I truly cannot put into words how I am feeling right now,” she wrote on Instagram at the time. “Thank you for letting the little girl inside of me feel loved, seen and happier than ever.”

She added, “I love you, and I cannot wait to be your wife. I promise to always be there with you and George, I’m so grateful to be in his life and I cannot wait for more. Everything is better with you. Everything has been better since you. Here’s to forever.”

Gordon Ramsay Once Joked About Being Mistaken For A Grandfather

The baby news will mark Gordon Ramsay‘s first grandchild, adding a new role to the celebrity chef’s already busy family life.

Gordon and his wife, Tana Ramsay, share six children together: Megan, twins Holly and Jack, Tilly, Oscar, and Jesse. While he may soon officially become a grandfather, Gordon previously joked that he wasn’t exactly thrilled when strangers assumed he already held the title.

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In a 2020 interview with Men’s Health UK, the chef recalled being mistaken for Oscar’s grandfather while out with his family.

“The worst thing is when I’m walking with Tana and Jack, and everyone is looking at Jack as if Oscar is his son,” Gordon said. “‘You must be so proud to be a grandad.’ ‘F-ck off, he’s ours.’ If I get called ‘grandad’ one more f-cking time, I’m going to hit the roof.”

Gordon Ramsay Says Fatherhood Brought Out His Softer Side

Despite his famously fiery television persona, Gordon has often insisted he’s much softer at home than viewers might expect.

“The kids have brought the most emotion out of me,” he told PEOPLE in 2023. “It’s funny, isn’t it? Because everyone thinks, ‘God, you must be an absolute a-s to be at home with.’ [But] Tana’s super fierce, an ex-Montessori school teacher. So I’m the softie.”

Now, with Holly expecting her first child, Gordon is preparing to embrace grandfatherhood for real.

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Daveigh Chase’s mother, Cathy Chase, has broken her silence after The Ring child star’s shocking and tragic death at 35.

“I was devastated. It felt like something inside of me squeezing all of the air out of me, and at the same time, It felt like I was exploding outwardly,” Cathy, who last saw Daveigh in 2019, told Daily Mail in an interview published Friday, June 19. “I let out this guttural scream and I just was running, and these weird sounds were coming out of me, like, primeval sounds. I went out into the backyard, and I was screaming, “No, no, no, no!” I am in so much pain but I hope her soul heard me.”

Daveigh’s boyfriend, Roy Hernandez, announced on Wednesday, June 17, that the actress had died one day prior. He claimed that Daviegh had meningitis and an infection in her blood that causes sepsis, a life-threatening illness that can cause organ failure.

Days earlier, Hernandez launched a GoFundMe campaign to cover Daveigh’s medical expenses.

Related: How Did ‘The Ring’ Child Star Daveigh Chase Die? What to Know So Far

Former child star Daveigh Chase, the voice behind Disney’s beloved Lilo in Lilo & Stitch and the haunting Samara in The Ring, has died at 35. Chase’s boyfriend, Roy Hernandez, confirmed the news to TMZ on June 17, 2026, revealing that the late actress had been battling meningitis and a serious blood infection prior to […]

“Daveigh was diagnosed with meningitis and several serious blood infections. Her condition has become critical, and the doctors have told me she may not have much time left,” he wrote in the fundraiser description. “All she ever wanted was a place where we could live together, feel safe, and be happy. Now, more than ever, I want to give her that sense of home and peace in her final days.”

Cathy, for her part, claimed to the Daily Mail that she found out about Daveigh’s death through the media after years questioning her daughter’s health.

“I would just put her name in the coroner’s [search system] and see if her name came up and if somebody had her somewhere,” Cathy recalled to the outlet. “I would look at their list of unidentified bodies. It was very difficult, but you do everything you can as a mother.”

According to Cathy, Daveigh allegedly struggled with substance abuse issues after injuring her back in a 2016 motorcycle accident.

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Related: Daveigh Chase’s Former Manager Skeptical of Boyfriend’s GoFundMe

Daveigh Chase’s former manager is casting doubts on the legitimacy of the GoFundMe page set up by her boyfriend, Roy Hernandez, in the wake of the actress’ death. “A man claiming to be Daveigh’s boyfriend has launched a GoFundMe page purportedly on behalf of Daveigh and her family. Neither her family nor her close friends […]

“She was seeking drugs and was partying with the wrong people,” Cathy claimed. “I never kicked my daughter out. She wanted freedom and these people got her hooked on some drugs. That was the beginning.”

Cathy further claimed that she last saw Daveigh in October 2019.

“She was completely gone, like, out of her mind. I honestly thought there was something wrong with her,” Cathy said. “My daughter was never diagnosed with mental health other than PTSD, but the drugs took hold of her.”

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Daveigh is survived by her parents, her brother and her boyfriend. Cathy also helped identify the Donnie Darko actress’ body earlier this week.

“[The hospital chaplain and I] were able to lay hands and pray,” Cathy told the Daily Mail. “Technically, we were touching the glass, but it’s as close as we could get, so we were able to lay hands and pray for her. It was a beautiful experience, and, and I feel very blessed, too, have been able to share that with my daughter.”

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

From literary classics to contemporary favorites, books have always served as a major inspiration for Hollywood. But while some books are perfect for film adaptations, some are better suited for the small screen. Television and streaming have seen some of the greatest works in contemporary and classic literature being translated to the screen, sometimes reimagined, and sometimes directly adapted.

From literary legends Leo Tolstoy to modern icons like Margaret Atwood and John le Carré, authors from different eras and genres have had their work take the shape of remarkable productions and great performances. Unfortunately, not all such shows remain timeless or become mainstream pop-culture sensations like The Lord of the Rings or The Handmaid’s Tale. Here’s our handpicked selection of near-perfect book-to-TV adaptations that sadly nobody remembers.

1

‘Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy’ (1979)

Image via BBC

Directed by John Irvin and written by Arthur Hopcraft for the BBC, 1979’s Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy is the first visual adaptation of John le Carré’s novel, featuring the grizzled MI6 spymaster, George Smiley. The series follows the retired agent, who is brought back to MI6 after the death of the head of the British Secret Service, as he attempts to catch a Russian double agent. Alec Guinness stars as Smiley, with Michael Jayston, Anthony Bate, George Sewell, and Patrick Stewart in notable roles.

In its day, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy was considered a masterpiece of spy fiction on TV and was lauded for Guinness’s perfect depiction of Smiley and its faithfulness to the original story. Unfortunately, the 1979 series has since skipped audience memory, with the 2011 film adaptation taking its place as the more acclaimed and popular adaptation. However, with its intricate production and timely depiction of the 1970s Cold War-era sentiments, the seven-part BBC series will always remain a television landmark and one of the finest screen translations of John le Carré’s spy classics.

2

‘Alias Grace’ (2017)

Image via Sarah Gadon

Created by Sarah Polley and adapted from Margaret Atwood’s novel, Alias Grace follows Grace Marks, a 16-year-old Irish immigrant and housemaid in mid-1800s Canada, who is accused of killing her employer. Her case takes a new turn when a young psychiatrist, Thomas Jordan, is assigned to evaluate her mental state to determine if she should be pardoned. The series stars Sarah Gadon as the titular character, with Paul Gross, Anna Paquin, Edward Holcroft, Zachary Levi, and David Cronenberg in key roles.

The six-part Canadian drama miniseries brings life to Atwood’s remarkable interpretation of true events from 1843 and is a modern television masterpiece. The narrative beautifully blurs the lines between fiction and reality, leaving the audience with ambiguity, thus doing every bit of justice to the original historical fiction story. But despite its incredible production values, powerful acting, and engaging storytelling, Alias Grace has remained an underrated gem and an eclectic favorite, never achieving mainstream success.

3

‘Station Eleven’ (2021)

Image via HBO Max

Based on Emily St. John Mandel’s novel, Station Eleven is a post-apocalyptic dystopian series by Patrick Somerville that centers on a devastating flu pandemic that causes the collapse of civilization. Twenty years after the catastrophic events, the story intertwines the lives of a group of survivors: a nomadic theater group, a famous actor, and an aspiring artist. Mackenzie Davis, Himesh Patel, Matilda Lawler, David Wilmot, Nabhaan Rizwan, Daniel Zovatto, and Lori Petty star in the main roles.

A story about a pandemic that upended life across the world, Station Eleven could not have been timelier, serving as a hopeful, reassuring approach to survival. A subtle, slow reflection on life, art, and memory, the series thrives on its balanced narrative of sci-fi elements, grim motifs, and artistic pursuits. One of the most perfect sci-fi miniseries to watch on HBO, Station Eleven earned critical acclaim and garnered a dedicated following during its run, but it was soon forgotten amid other mainstream shows and miniseries on the network.

4

‘Shetland’ (2013–Present)

Image via BBC

A British crime drama by David Kane, adapted from Ann Cleeves’s novel collection of the same name, Shetland is set in the titular Scottish archipelago and follows local Detective Inspector Jimmy Perez and his loyal sergeants as they investigate all kinds of crimes within the community. The show’s later seasons center on DI Ruth Calder, who replaces Perez as the series lead. Douglas Henshall, Ashley Jensen, Alison O’Donnell, Steven Robertson, Julie Graham, and Mark Bonnar play the main roles.

While the first two seasons of Shetland are direct adaptations of four books in Cleeves’ The Four Seasons Quartet, the following seasons are exclusively original storylines, which largely change the overall impact of the show. However, the grim and gritty crime thriller appeals with its powerful characters, compelling performances, and distinctive Nordic Noir aesthetic. Since its premiere in 2013, Shetland has been widely acclaimed, earning several accolades, and yet, it has remained quite a niche show with a small but dedicated fan following.

5

‘Little Fires Everywhere’ (2020)

Image via Hulu

Created by Liz Tigelaar from Celeste Ng’s novel of the same name, Little Fires Everywhere centers on Elena Richardson, a perfect suburban mother and landlady, and Mia Warren, a single mother with a teenage daughter and a mysterious past who moves to an Ohio suburb. When Elena offers Mia a home and a job as her housekeeper, their lives and those of their children become a complicated entanglement, upending the Richardsons’ seemingly perfect lives. Reese Witherspoon and Kerry Washington star as the central characters, with Joshua Jackson, Rosemarie DeWitt, Jade Pettyjohn, Lexi Underwood, and Megan Stott in key roles.

Anchored by fiery performances by Witherspoon and Washington, Little Fires Everywhere is as perfect as a miniseries can be, where every episode is deep and thoughtful. A powerful and incisive show, it raises and addresses tough questions about identity, race, and class dynamics, not to mention the complexities of motherhood. While the show made waves during its 2020 premiere and became Hulu’s most-watched series at the time, Little Fires Everywhere has since become quite niche and has not been a subject of mainstream pop-culture conversations.

6

‘The Shannara Chronicles’ (2016–2017)

Image via MTV

A post-apocalyptic fantasy created by Alfred Gough and Miles Millar, The Shannara Chronicles is a series adaptation of the novel trilogy The Sword of Shannara by Terry Brooks. The series, set in the fictional Four Lands, centers on three heroes who embark on a perilous quest with the help of the last druid to save a magical, dying tree and stop an army of demons from destroying the world. Austin Butler, Poppy Drayton, Ivana Baquero, Manu Bennett, Aaron Jakubenko, and Vanessa Morgan star in the main roles.

With magic, elven races, and the classic conflicts between good and evil, peace and war, The Shannara Chronicles is a well-made high fantasy show that fans would love. It nicely weaves two parallel plotlines with ample action and adventure, making it an exciting genre gem that is worth watching. Unfortunately, the show’s lower viewership and ratings led to its cancellation after two seasons, making it relatively obscure.

7

‘The Little Drummer Girl’ (2018)

Image via AMC

Directed by Park Chan-wook, The Little Drummer Girl is a spy drama series based on John le Carré’s 1983 novel of the same name and the second screen adaptation of the book after the 1984 film starring Diane Keaton. Set during the Cold War, the six-part BBC show follows Charlie, a young and radical left-wing English actress who is recruited by a Mossad agent to stop a terrorist plot planned across Europe. Florence Pugh, Michael Shannon, and Alexander Skarsgård star as the main characters, with Charles Dance, Simona Brown, and Max Irons in supporting roles.

The Little Drummer Girl is a near-perfect adaptation of le Carré’s complex espionage drama and stays faithful to the original 1970s setting, tense atmosphere, and complicated nuances of spycraft. On its release in 2018, the series was highly acclaimed and became one of the most celebrated spy shows of the 2010s, with praise for Chan-wook’s directorial vision and the invested performances of the lead cast. Despite its ardent genre following, The Little Drummer Girl has remained heavily underrated and has gotten lost in the never-ending stream of new content.

8

‘War & Peace’ (2016)

Image via BBC

Directed by Tom Harper and written by Andrew Davies, War & Peace is a historical drama miniseries adapted from Leo Tolstoy’s 1896 novel and the second major English-language TV series and BBC adaptation of the literary classic. Set during the Napoleonic Wars of the early 1800s, the series follows the interwoven tales of five Russian aristocratic families and their young members as they navigate love, loss, and the meaning of life amid a raging war. The show’s ensemble cast includes Paul Dano, Lily James, James Norton, Jessie Buckley, Brian Cox, and Gillian Anderson in main roles.

War & Peace is elevated by its passionate drama, sprawling visuals, and luxurious costumes, balancing humor and heart at various stages. While it cannot capture the complete depth of Tolstoy’s genius, the six-part series largely stays faithful to the original material and makes the complex literary classic more comprehensible for modern audiences. At the time of its premiere in 2016, War & Peace garnered critical acclaim, but it has remained a hidden gem ever since, though it is more than worth rediscovering.

Keeping your wardrobe stocked with light, airy basics is key to any good summer wardrobe. The idea is to have some easy, go-to options for the days you want to look put-together and stylish, even if it feels like it’s over 100 degrees outside. And if you’re going to buy just one of those pieces for the season, make it this Merokeety Romper.

With more than 700 happy reviews, this versatile romper is a favorite among shoppers, and it’s not hard to see why. It’s made of a lightweight, breathable material and can easily be dressed up or down depending on your plans. And it’s hard to ignore that almost every shopper has noted just how comfortable it is, making it one of those clothing items you’ll never want to take off.

Get the Merokeety Romper for $30 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change. 

This short jumpsuit features a button-down look, a deep V-neck and a pleated, elastic waist. It has a loose, relaxed fit that is somehow still really flattering, and just works for those steamy summer days. Major bonus: there are two pockets that are actually big enough to stash some of your small essentials. Oh, and did we mention it’s only $30?

Related: This Bestselling Summer-Friendly Jumpsuit Flawlessly ‘Hides the Tummy’

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As a mom of three young kids, the morning chaos of getting dressed, getting out the door and trying to look reasonably put-together demands simplicity — which is why a one‑and‑done jumpsuit has become my go-to uniform. Thankfully, Amazon has a figure-flattering jumpsuit reviewers say is one of “those outfits you can throw on and […]

When you’re running errands, meeting friends or just hanging out, you can keep this airy romper simple with a pair of flat sandals or sneakers and minimal accessories. Heading out to dinner or a casual party? Throw this on with platform sandals and some eye-catching jewelry, and it instantly looks more elevated.

The best thing about this pick, though, might be how good it feels when it’s on. Shoppers can’t stop talking about how “cute and comfy” it is, confirming that it’s “perfect for those days that you want to throw something on that is quick and easy.”

“It feels like wearing pajamas, it’s so comfy,” one reviewer wrote. “And light and breathable. Great for the summer heat! Will be buying another color.”

Fans also point out that the design is great for vacation since it’s so easy to pack.

“Great outfit for travels,” someone noted in a review. “Doesn’t wrinkle and saves some packing of multiple pieces of clothing. Perfect on my cruise excursions.”

Snag this Merokeety Romper in one of its 15 available colors while you can — this one is bound to go fast!

Get the Merokeety Romper for $30 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change. 

Related: Shoppers Are Snapping up This Easy, One-and-Done Outfit for Summer

Getting dressed isn’t always easy. It can be hard to choose what to wear or which pieces go together. But, some outfits take the guesswork out of the equation. Case in point: the Antnation Smocked Top Lounge Set that has Amazon shoppers totally obsessed. It delivers that perfectly styled, boutique-worthy look without forcing you to […]

Hailee Steinfeld has been refreshingly candid about her motherhood journey.

Steinfeld announced in April 2026 that she welcomed her first child, daughter Harper, with husband Josh Allen.

“We’re feeling incredibly grateful and blessed and savouring these early moments,” she wrote in her “Beau Society” newsletter. “Thank you so much for the love and well wishes.”

Through her newsletter and beyond, the Sinners actress has chronicled the highs, the exhaustion and the unexpected transformations that have come with becoming a mom. Keep scrolling for Steinfeld’s most honest quotes about life as a new mother:

Related: Hailee Steinfeld Reveals Biggest Lessons She’s Learned After Becoming Mom

Hailee Steinfeld is opening about how she’s grown since welcoming her baby with husband Josh Allen. “One of the most unexpected things I’ve learned from my daughter is the importance of modeling unconditional self-love,” the Sinners actress, 29, wrote in the Friday, June 12 edition of her “Beau Society” newsletter. Steinfeld and Allen, 30, welcomed […]

Hailee Steinfeld Reveals Daughter Harper’s Full Name Name in Emotional Letter

Steinfeld used the June 19, 2026, edition of her newsletter to publicly announce her daughter’s full name for the first time: Harper Haize Allen.

“Dearest Harper, I’m in awe of you,” she wrote in the letter to her baby girl. “You’ve been here for only a short while now, and somehow it feels as though you’ve always been ours.”

The actress described the past few months as “beautiful and exhausting,” noting that every minute together is “sacred and so special.”

“Your daddy and I look at you often and ask each other the same question: How did we get so lucky to have you?” Steinfeld continued, referring to Allen. “You, whose tiny fingers already wrap around mine with a trust I pray I never take for granted.”

Steinfeld closed her note with a tender message to her daughter, “Even though I know I am meant to guide you through this life, Harper Haize Allen, the truth is that already, you have taught me far more than I could ever teach you. One day you’ll read this and know that to be true, my sweet girl.”

Hailee Steinfeld on Becoming ‘Someone New Over and Over Again’

In her same June 2026 letter, Steinfeld revealed how motherhood has reshaped her sense of self. She admittedly used to think motherhood was simply “about raising a child,” but has since realized it’s actually about “allowing yourself to become someone new over and over again.”

“A softer version. A stronger version. A more patient and present version,” Steinfeld wrote of meeting different versions of herself each day. “A version that loves everything and everyone — including myself — more deeply than she ever knew possible.”

She added that motherhood feels like having her heart “somehow living outside my body.

Hailee Steinfeld Shares Her Biggest Mom Lesson

In the June 12, 2026, issue of her newsletter, Steinfeld opened up about the most surprising lesson she’s learned about parenting to date.

“One of the most unexpected things I’ve learned from my daughter is the importance of modeling unconditional self-love,” she stated. “I’m obviously still learning what that looks like in practice. But during these early stages of motherhood, specifically with raising a daughter, I’ve realized that how I see myself is how she’ll see herself. It’s that simple.”

Hailee Steinfeld Details Her Postpartum Body Changes

Steinfeld has also been open about adjusting her fitness and nutrition routines as she heals from childbirth.

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“My body has gone through a lot of change recently, so I’m taking it slow while I figure out what my workout routine will look like moving forward,” she explained in a May 2026 newsletter issue. “But any time the weather is nice enough to get outside, I’ll get out for a quick walk. If that’s not an option, I’m on the treadmill, or the stairmaster — which I’m really into right now.”

Her doula has advised her to stick to warm foods during recovery to help with digestion and nutrient absorption — a philosophy rooted in Ayurveda. “My mom made me this amazing albondigas soup the other day,” Steinfeld said. “It’s one of those rare soups that looks as good as it tastes.”

This story was compiled with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists. 

By Jonathan Klotz
| Published 6 seconds ago

The 2026 television season has been a little lackluster so far when it comes to original, new series. The Boroughs was a fun binge on Netflix, Margo’s Got Money Troubles was a good comedy, but nothing can compare to the surprising success of Widow’s Bay on AppleTV. It’s a horror comedy, which might be the hardest combination of genres to pull off, that plays out like Twin Peaks meets Parks and Recreation. No show will leave you laughing so hard in one episode, before traumatizing you in the next.

Widow’s Bay Is The Most Original Show In Years

That odd mix of shows makes sense since Widow’s Bay was created by Katie Dippold, a writer for Parks and Recreation. The series takes place in the island town of Widow’s Bay in New England when Mayor Tom (Matthew Rhys) decides to boost tourism to the small community. The catch is that the community, primarily Wyck (Stephen Root) believes the island is cursed. 

It’s not a spoiler to say that yes, yes it is cursed, and yes, there are real horrors at work on the island. That’s not surprising. What is surprising is the dry humor and Matthew Rhys’ perfect facial expressions, as the town’s residents will deliver the most absurd lines with a perfectly straight face. If you vibed with the humor of Parks and Recreation, you know what you’re getting into with the odd residents of Widow’s Bay, especially Kate O’Flynn as Tom’s assistant, Patricia. There’s a sequence with her involving a shotgun that is destined to be a social media hit for years to come, and one of those moments that you’ll think, “I’d do the same thing.”

Slapstick Comedy, Horror, And Amazing Sight Gags

Before starting your binge of the first season, avoid as many spoilers as you can. Widow’s Bay sets up mysteries early on with the chained church bell, the strange basement room, a rolling fogbank, and, while it’s not a supernatural mystery, how many Diet Cokes can Town Hall employee Dale consume? His desk is filled to the brim with cans. That can’t be healthy. 

Keep your eyes peeled while watching Widow’s Bay as the production team was heavily influenced by The Simpsons usage of sight gags. Some are called out with blatant shots, others exist in the background of a conversation, but put together, they make the town of Widow’s Bay an absurdist version of Twin Peaks. 

No one had supernatural slapstick down on their 2026 Bingo card, but here we are. While Netflix pulled the plug on The Boroughs, Widow’s Bay has already been confirmed for a second season, which is good considering the stakes-raising season finale ends by revealing a whole new layer to the mystery of the island. We have a long wait until Season 2 premieres, giving you plenty of time to watch the show of the Summer, and you can still convince your friends you were a fan of Widow’s Bay before it was cool. ]

Widow’s Bay Season 1 is now streaming on AppleTV.

Making an animated show is hard. Not only do you have to go through the usual rigamarole of pitching an idea to a network and assembling the cast and crew, but animation is a costly, time-consuming process that doesn’t allow much room for reshoots and script alterations, since you literally have to re-draw the scene. Thus, it can be very devastating when a show doesn’t do very well on release or is cancelled early.

Fortunately, the internet has made it a lot easier to watch old shows and give them a second chance. Some of these shows are also helped by their small but dedicated fanbases.

‘The Pirates of Dark Water’ (1991–1992)

Image via ABC

Prince Ren (George Newbern) is the heir to the ruined kingdom of Octopon on the oceanic planet of Mer. He sails the seas with an ecomancer named Tula (Jodi Benson), and a pirate named Ioz (Héctor Elizondo), searching for the Thirteen Treasures of Ruel that can restore Octopon to its former glory, and stop the Dark Water, a mysterious liquid that destroys anything it touches. Unfortunately, Ren has to compete with a wicked pirate named Bloth (Brock Peters), who wants to use the treasures to control the Dark Water, and the Dark Dweller (Frank Welker), who created the water in the first place.

It can be surprising to learn that The Pirates of Dark Water was produced by Hanna-Barbera, since it’s quite different from their expected lineup. Though it only had 21 episodes before being cancelled due to high production costs, the show earned praise for its mature storytelling, complex characters, and unique premise. That high production cost also didn’t go to waste, as the show looks very good for an early 1990s cartoon, with fun character designs and detailed water animation.

‘Megas XLR’ (2004–2005)

Image via Cartoon Network

As humanity fights a losing war against the Glorft, they plan to send pilot Kiva Andru (Wendee Lee) back in time with an experimental robot called Megas to save humanity from extinction. A Glorft attack causes Megas to be sent too far back, and in 2004, it is found and modified by slacker Harold Cooplowski (David DeLuise). When Kiva comes back to retrieve Megas, she is distraught to learn that only Coop can pilot it now, so she has to teach him how to use the mech as the Glorft send their own agents back in time to claim it.

Megas XLR ended due to low ratings, but it received high praise thanks to its concept and unique style of humor. It combines the grand action sequences of mech anime with a tongue-in-cheek style of humor utilizing billboard gags and pot-shots at MTV. Really, all you need to know can be summed up in the theme song, the aptly named “Chicks Dig Giant Robots.”

‘Invader Zim’ (2001–2006)

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The extraterrestrial Irken Empire has made it its mission to conquer the galaxy, and sends agents to infiltrate planets to make them easier to subdue. The Irken leaders, the Almighty Tallest (Wally Wingert and Kevin McDonald), assign their most hated agent, Zim (Richard Steven Horvitz), to the planet Earth to keep him out of their way, and assign him a malfunctioning robot named GIR (Rosearik Rikki Simons). Zim makes headway thanks to the humans of Earth being easily duped, except for a paranoid boy named Dib (Andy Berman), who makes it his mission to expose and defeat Zim.

Invader Zim is one of the most unique shows to come from Nickelodeon, and far more mature and unhinged than their usual lineup. The show pushed the limits of what is considered acceptable in kids’ media, with plenty of gross-out shots and disturbing concepts for episodes. Yet it’s all balanced out by its aggressive sense of humor that can go from 1 to 100 in a minute.

‘Dave the Barbarian’ (2004–2005)

Image via Disney Channel

When King Throktar (Kevin Michael Richardson) and Queen Glimia (Erica Luttrell) of Udragoth leave to battle evil, their teenage daughter, Princess Candy (Erica Luttrell), is left in charge, and their eldest son, Dave (Danny Cooksey), is tasked with protecting it. They are aided by their sorcerer uncle, Ozlo (Kevin Michael Richardson), their aggressive younger sister, Fang (Tress MacNeille), Dave’s talking sword, Lula (Estelle Harris), and Faffy (Frank Welker), the family’s pet dragon. Unfortunately, the group is a lot less competent than they sound, and Dave in particular would rather run from a fight than throw a single punch.

Dave the Barbarian feels like a more modern take on The Flintstones, combining modernity with antiquity to create some hilarious juxtapositions. A typical episode is filled to the brim with fourth wall breaks, absurdist humor like Dave making a homemade megaphone with a squirrel, string, and a megaphone, and the primary antagonist is an evil pig named The Dark Lord Chuckles the Silly Piggy (Paul Rugg). Though it only lasted one season, the show won an Annie Award for Storyboarding in an Animated Television Production, and was nominated for Writing in an Animated Television Production.

‘Shadow Raiders’ (1998–1999)

Image via YTV

Princess Tekla (Donna Yamamoto) is left the only survivor of Planet Tek after it is consumed by the Beast Planet, and flees to the Cluster, a collection of four habitable planets named Rock, Ice, Fire, and Bone, who constantly raid one another for resources. The Beast Planet follows her and begins invading the Cluster, attacking the planets with armies of drones led by three generals: the aggressive Blokk (Scott McNeil), the deceptive Lamprey (Tasha Simms), and the silent Voyd. Tekla meets a miner from Rock named Graveheart (Paul Dobson) and King Cryos (Mark Oliver) of Ice, and together they work to unite the four planets into an army strong enough to repel the Beast Planet before it kills them all.

Shadow Raiders came from the same creators as ReBoot and Beast Wars: Transformers, and though it didn’t last as long, it made a powerful impression in its short lifespan. The show balanced its action and comedic moments with diplomatic talks that emphasized the difficulty of bringing these planets together, with plenty of strong scenes of characters debating with one another while the threat grows ever closer. The Beast Planet and its forces also make for effective antagonists: the generals provide a face and something tangental for the heroes to face, while the Beast Planet itself is a literal cosmic horror that feels like it cannot be defeated, merely avoided.

‘Freakazoid!’ (1995–1997)

Image via Kids’ WB

A computer accident merges Dexter Douglas (David Kaufman) with the 1990s internet, transforming him into a superhero named Freakazoid (Paul Rugg). The transformation proves to be a double-edged sword, as while Freakazoid has access to cartoon logic and enhanced speed and durability, he also loses his mind and attention span, as seen whenever he gets sidetracked by his good friend Sgt. Mike Cosgrove (Ed Asner). Nevertheless, when villains rear their wicked heads and threaten the innocent, Freakazoid will be there to save the day in his own unique and incomprehensible way.

Freakazoid! is one of several animated shows produced by Steven Spielberg during the 1990s, and remains fondly remembered thanks to its comedic writing and impeccable voice acting. The jokes feel like precursors to internet memes with their nonsensical combination of timing, ad-libbed rants, and cutaway gags, which have helped the show feel evergreen even 30 years later. As for the voice acting, Rugg easily steals the show, but Asner is also hilarious in his deadpanned delivery, and other voice actors included talent like Jeff Bennett, Tim Curry, and Ricardo Montelban.

‘The Marvelous Misadventures of Flapjack’ (2008–2010)

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Flapjack (Thurop Van Orman) is a young boy raised by a whale named Bubbie (Roz Ryan) who lives among the wacky inhabitants of the floating city of Stormhold Harbor. One day, Bubbie rescues a washed-up pirate named Captain K’nuckles (Brian Doyle-Murray), who tells Flapjack stories about Candied Island, a mysterious place full of candy. Now Flapjack accompanies K’nuckles on numerous adventures to acquire candy or sail to Candied Island, which often leads them into trouble.

The Marvelous Misadventures of Flapjack is one of the best examples of a show that didn’t do well on release, yet still shaped the look and tone of future projects. Many of the people who worked on the show went to work on some of Cartoon Network’s best shows of the 2010s, such as Adventure Time and Over the Garden Wall. As for the show itself, time has been pretty kind to it, as those who watch it tend to fall in love with Flapjack’s adorable optimism, its surrealist humor that seems to always be trying to one-up itself, and its use of high-seas hijinx to explore its unique world and the numerous islands that make it up.

‘Sym-Bionic Titan’ (2010–2011)

Image via Cartoon Network

When the world of Galaluna falls to General Modula (Don Leslie), only three people escape: Princess Ilana (Tara Strong), a warrior named Lance (Kevin Thoms), and a robot named Octus (Brian Posehn). They flee to Earth and disguise themselves as human teenagers, but Modula’s forces pursue them. Fortunately, they can merge together into a being called the Sym-Bionic Titan to defeat their attackers.

Sym-Bionic Titan is another feather in the cap of famed animator Genndy Tartakovsky, known for hit TV shows like Dexter’s Laboratory, Samurai Jack, and Primal. It has all the trademarks of his best work, such as using animation to express emotion more than dialogue, stylistic action sequences, and immersive worldbuilding. The characters also stand out thanks to their simple but effective personalities, especially Octus, who grows the most of the main cast through his relationship with popular girl Kimberly (Kari Wahlgren).

‘The Tick’ (1994–1997)

Image via FOX Kids

A crime-ridden city can sleep easily knowing that they are protected by the Tick (Townsend Coleman), a mysterious blue superhero with a boisterous personality and a love for upholding law and justice. He meets an accountant named Arthur (Micky Dolenz and Rob Paulsen), whom the Tick takes on as a moth-themed sidekick. When not trying to pay rent on their apartment, the duo protects the City from all sorts of eccentric criminals.

The Tick was released during a boom of superhero cartoons, but managed to carve out its own identity thanks to how hilarious it is. The show delights in spoofing classic superhero tropes and archetypes, best seen through The Tick’s over-the-top love of justice and crime fighting, which include longwinded monologs and strange catchphrases like “Spoon!” It’s been followed by two live-action series in 2001 and 2016, but they, too, ended prematurely, leaving The Tick with an unfortunate legacy of hilarious parody and tragic ending.

‘Cybersix’ (1999)

Image via TMS Entertainment

The town of Meridiana is watched over by Cybersix (Cathy Weseluck), a leather-clad gynoid and runaway creation of the twisted scientist Dr. Von Reichter (Terry Klassen). By night, she battles against Von Reichter’s other creations and thwarts the schemes of his son, José (Alex Doduk), with the help of an orphaned kid named Julain (Andrew Francis), and her brother, Data 7 (Scott McNeil), reborn in the body of a panther. By day, Cybersix disguses herself as a male teacher named Adrian, and maintains a friendship with her love interest, a biology teacher named Lucas (Michael Dobson).

It is criminal that Cybersix was ignored on release. While some of the darkest aspects of the original comic strip had to be toned down, the show still went to some dark places as it explored the difficulties of Cybersix’s dual life and the dangers of science gone too far. It’s also gorgeously animated by the legendary TMS Entertainment, leading to fluid action sequences and striking cinematic moments, especially when Cybersix’s cape blows in the wind.

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The third and final season of “Euphoria” generated intense debate among fans, with much of the conversation centered around Cassie Howard’s shocking OnlyFans storyline and Sydney Sweeney‘s increasingly explicit scenes. Now, creator Sam Levinson is responding to the criticism, explaining why he felt it was important to explore the intersection of online validation, influencer culture, and the growing popularity of platforms like OnlyFans.

After months of criticism from viewers and online commentators, Levinson is standing by the creative decisions that shaped Cassie’s final season arc.

Appearing on “Real Time With Bill Maher,” the “Euphoria” creator explained that he viewed OnlyFans as a major cultural force worth exploring rather than a niche topic. “If you look at OnlyFans, it is making as much money as Hollywood. I mean, essentially, it’s on par,” Levinson said. “It’s not a niche business; it is a massive enterprise.”

Levinson said the storyline was designed to examine how young people may be drawn to online platforms that offer both financial rewards and validation. “And so if you’re young, you’re going … ‘I don’t want to go work in a nine to five at this place or that thing. Well, maybe I can just start taking photos of myself?’” he explained.

Rather than glorifying that path, Levinson said he wanted to explore the emotional consequences that can come from building self-worth around attention from strangers online.

According to Levinson, Cassie’s journey wasn’t just about online sex work. It was also about the influence social media and internet culture have on young people’s sense of identity.

“What happens when you know, as a young person, you’re on Instagram … and you’re told that you’re the product, you’re the brand, and now you’re 18 years old, and you’re going, well, ‘How do I make money?’” he said.

The filmmaker added that he was interested in examining the long-term effects of chasing attention and quick success online. “You know, we take a fairly critical look at it. It hollows out the individual,” he said. “You know, you’re constantly just depending on the likes and external validation.”

Levinson argued that Cassie’s storyline represented what he sees as the “natural evolution” of a culture that encourages people to constantly market themselves online.

Sydney Sweeney Backed The Character’s Evolution

In a recent interview with Vanity Fair, Sweeney also defended Cassie’s controversial trajectory, saying the character’s actions stem from a deep need for acceptance. “She has a need to be validated by other people,” Sweeney explained. “She doesn’t know how to love herself unless someone else loves her.”

The actress added that Levinson had discussed the broad outlines of Cassie’s season 3 story with her years before filming began, including her marriage to Nate (played by Jacob Elordi) and the increasingly chaotic direction her life would take.

Sam Levinson Previously Praised Sydney Sweeney’s ‘Fearless’ Performance

Levinson’s latest comments aren’t the first time he’s spoken out about the controversial storyline. As The Blast previously reported, the filmmaker revealed that he initially considered filming Cassie’s OnlyFans scenes without nudity, but said Sweeney quickly pushed back on the idea.

“When I first wrote it … I thought, ‘Well, maybe, we shoot all of this, and we don’t have any nudity,’” Levinson recalled. “I was talking to her about, maybe, there’s ways to shoot around certain [things], and she looked at me, and she’s like, ‘Are you kidding? I’m playing an OnlyFans model.’”

Levinson went on to explain that he regularly collaborates with actors when developing scenes and character arcs, but said Sweeney fully embraced the creative challenges that came with Cassie’s final chapter.

Sam Levinson Calls Sydney Sweeney ‘Fearless’ Amid Backlash

The “Euphoria” creator described the actress as “fearless” and praised her willingness to take risks in service of the role.

“I think she’s a totally fearless actor. She’s also just wonderfully professional, and shows up just game every day,” he said. “I adore working with her, because there’s such a flexibility in terms of the performance.”

His remarks echoed Sweeney’s own defense of Cassie’s storyline, with both star and creator maintaining that the character’s actions were rooted in her ongoing search for love, validation, and self-worth.

Jimmy Kimmel is stepping away from late-night television for the next two months, but his replacement is already turning heads. During Thursday night’s episode of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!,” the host announced that a rotating lineup of guest hosts will take over while he enjoys a temporary sabbatical. Among the names revealed was longtime comedian and outspoken Donald Trump critic Rosie O’Donnell, whose selection immediately raised eyebrows given her decades-long feud with the president.

While Jimmy Kimmel is stepping away from late-night television for a brief break, viewers won’t have to wait long for a familiar face to take over.

During Thursday night’s episode of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!,” the comedian revealed he will be taking a two-month sabbatical and has lined up a roster of celebrity guest hosts to fill in during his absence. “I will be taking the next two months off, this time voluntarily,” Kimmel joked, before unveiling several stars who will helm the show while he’s away.

Among the names announced were Tiffany Haddish, Colman Domingo, Ike Barinholtz, Anthony Anderson, Jelly Roll, and Rosie O’Donnell. “And… I asked one of our commander-in-chief’s all-time favorites, Rosie O’Donnell, to be here to keep the hits coming,” Kimmel quipped, drawing a loud reaction from the audience.

O’Donnell’s Booking Comes After Years Of Public Feuding With Trump

O’Donnell’s upcoming guest-hosting stint is particularly notable given her long-running public feud with President Donald Trump. The comedian made headlines in 2025 after relocating to Ireland with her youngest child following Trump’s election victory. Tensions between the two escalated further in July when Trump publicly suggested he was considering revoking O’Donnell’s U.S. citizenship.

“Because of the fact that Rosie O’Donnell is not in the best interests of our Great Country, I am giving serious consideration to taking away her Citizenship,” Trump wrote on Truth Social at the time. “She is a Threat to Humanity, and should remain in the wonderful Country of Ireland, if they want her. GOD BLESS AMERICA.”

O’Donnell quickly fired back on social media. “The president of the USA has always hated the fact that I see him for who he is, a criminal con man, sexual-abusing liar out to harm our nation to serve himself; this is why I moved to Ireland,” she wrote.

Rosie O’Donnell Recently Returned To The U.S.

Despite relocating overseas, O’Donnell has continued making occasional trips back to the United States. Earlier this year, she revealed that she quietly returned home for a visit with family after spending more than a year abroad.

“I recently went home for two weeks and I did not really tell anyone. I just went to see my family,” O’Donnell said during an appearance on SiriusXM’s “Cuomo Mornings.” “I wanted to see how hard it would be for me to get in and out of the country. I wanted to feel what it felt like. I wanted to hold my children again. And I hadn’t been home in over a year.”

Her appearance on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” marks one of her most high-profile returns to American television since relocating to Ireland.

Jimmy Kimmel And Donald Trump’s Feud Has Escalated For Years

While Rosie O’Donnell’s ongoing battle with President Donald Trump is well documented, Kimmel has also become one of the president’s most outspoken critics in late-night television.

Over the years, Kimmel has regularly used his monologues to mock Trump, frequently taking aim at the president’s policies, public statements, legal troubles, and campaign appearances. The comedian’s sharp criticism has often prompted responses from Trump himself, who has repeatedly attacked Kimmel on social media and labeled him a “loser” and a “third-rate talent.”

Their feud intensified in recent years as Kimmel became increasingly vocal about political issues, with the host often arguing that comedians have a responsibility to speak out when they see something they believe is wrong.

Most recently, Kimmel referenced the brief controversy surrounding his show after comments he made regarding conservative commentator Charlie Kirk sparked backlash and temporarily put him at odds with ABC.

During his announcement about taking time off, Kimmel joked that his upcoming hiatus was voluntary, a lighthearted nod to that controversy.