Miss USA 2026 winner Justus Kelley has opened up about her preparation for the swimwear portion of the pageant after becoming the first married woman and mother to win.

“My pageant prep, it did look different,” Kelley, 31, told Fox News Digital in an interview published on Saturday, September 19. “I’m not going to pretend like I was able to dedicate the same amount of time as what I did in the past. I had to get creative. [My kids’] nap time was my prep time. It was late nights. It was after the bath and bed routine. I did walking classes with my baby on my chest, in his carrier. I did squats in my living room while holding my 2-year-old. I practiced interview questions while feeding my toddler.”

She added, “There were days when I wished I could just take the entire day to dedicate to pageant prep, but that’s not where I am. That’s not the season of life that I’m in. And we made it work, and my family was fully on board with this experience. They know that they’re along for the journey; they’re along for this ride with me.”

Kelley triumphed over 50 women from around the country to win the Miss USA 2026 crown at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County in Miami on August 26. In doing so, Kelley became the first representative of the state of Virginia to win Miss USA since Deborah Shelton did so in 1970.

The Arlington, Virginia, native not only made history as the first mother and married woman to take the crown but she was also the first person in her 30s to ever win Miss USA. (Kelley and her husband Tyler have welcomed two foster children into their home.)

In 2023, Miss USA changed a rule that previously prevented women with children from competing in the pageant and removed a previous age cap of 28.

“Knowing that history was made as the first mom, as the first wife, as the first woman in her 30s, my first thought was how amazing it is to get to do this and to represent women from all over the country, from all over the world that resonate with, ‘Hey, we’re still dreaming,’” Kelley told the outlet.

Kelley revealed that giving up social media allowed her crucial time to dedicate to fitness ahead of Miss USA’s iconic swimwear competition.

“I love abductor and adductor exercises, something that I usually do on a machine at the gym,” she added her exercise regimen. “But if I can’t make it to the gym, I’m just lying on the floor, elevating my leg and mirroring what I would’ve done on that machine.”

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Related: Miss USA Winner Alma Cooper Announces She’s Skipping 2025 Pageant

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Miss USA winner Alma Cooper, who was crowned in 2024, has announced she won’t be attending this year’s pageant. Taking to Instagram on Friday, October 24, the beauty queen, 23, told her followers that she made the “extremely difficult decision” to skip this year’s event. The post was shared just hours before the pageant, where […]

The Miss USA winner went on to say, “For me, leading up to a pageant, knowing there’s a fitness component, I’m going to be in a swimsuit on that stage. I want to feel good. I want to show off all this hard work.”

Per reports, Kelley’s prize package for winning Miss USA includes a $150,000 salary, a one-year lease on a Miami apartment, a Range Rover and a Westgate Vacation Home Club membership. She also received $30,000 to put toward her Miss Universe wardrobe as well as $15,000 for hair and glam.

The next step for Kelley is to represent the U.S. at Miss Universe 2026, which will be held at the José Miguel Agrelot Coliseum in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on November 24.

Everybody Loves Raymond alum Brad Garrett is sharing his support for friend and fellow comedian Carrot Top after the performer was hospitalized following an alleged suicide attempt.

“Oh my beautiful, talented friend @carrottoplive. We’re ALL thanking our lucky stars that you’re OK,” Garrett, 66, wrote via Instagram on Saturday, September 19, alongside a photo with Carrot Top, 61, and Ray Romano. “Please take this time to remember how appreciated and loved you are by so many.”

He continued, “We’re here for you. We need you OK. YOU need you OK. Whatever it takes, we’re here for you. You’re getting a second chance for a reason. Use it wisely. We need folks like you around. Show yourself grace. We love you.”

Carrot Top (real name Scott Thompson) was hospitalized in Las Vegas on Friday, September 19, after a reported suicide attempt. (TMZ was the first to report the news.)

Related: Comedian Carrot Top, 61, Hospitalized After Canceling Las Vegas Show

Comedian Carrot Top has been hospitalized. “Mr. Thompson is recovering in the hospital and is receiving the care and support he needs,” his rep, Jami Schlicher, told TheWrap in a Friday, September 18, statement, while using the 61-year-old comedy star’s real name, Scott Thompson. “His family and those closest to him are deeply grateful for […]

“Mr. Thompson is recovering in the hospital and is receiving the care and support he needs,” his rep, Jami Schlicher, told the outlet in a statement. “His family and those closest to him are deeply grateful for the concern, prayers and respectfully ask for privacy.”

TMZ also reported that Carrot Top’s comedy shows at the Luxor Casino on Friday and Saturday were both canceled amid the comedy star’s hospitalization. Us reached out to reps for Carrot Top, Luxor Casino and the Las Vegas Police Department for comment but have not heard back at the time of publication.

Carrot Top, who has not publicly addressed his hospitalization, has headlined a residency at Luxor since 2005.

“It came around by accident, believe it or not. I used to do a couple of weeks at a time at the MGM Grand, 17 years ago,” he recalled in a 2022 interview of performing in Vegas. “It was like a mini-residence. I would go there for two weeks, and then I would go on the road and do shows. Then, I would come back and do two weeks and then go back out on the road again.”

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Related: Carrot Top’s Las Vegas Show Reportedly Canceled After Alleged Suicide Attempt

Comedian Carrot Top’s Saturday, September 19, comedy show has reportedly been canceled following an alleged suicide attempt. The comedian, real name Scott Thompson, will reportedly remain hospitalized on Saturday and as his scheduled performance at the Luxor Casino is canceled, according to TMZ. Us has reached out to reps for both the comedian and venue […]

Soon after, Carrot Top was offered his own show.

“I wasn’t ready to be a resident headliner. I was reluctant,” Carrot Top confessed at the time. “I said, ‘Let’s do a year and see how it goes.’ It was horrible for that first year. I was living in the hotel. It was just not a good time. Things weren’t working. Shows were tough and I was losing my mind, and thinking I have to get out of this gig. Then, one day it was really weird, I just started having fun and it started to click.”

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He continued, “I agreed to do another two years, making it a three-year deal, and at that point we really got into a groove. It wouldn’t make any sense for me not to be in Vegas. Then, I agreed to a five-year deal. Then, it became a 10-year deal, and now it’s been 16 years and counting. You’re in one place and people come to you, as opposed to you going to them. I’ve gotten used to the room.”

Carrot Top’s show was recently nominated for Best Comedian, Best Resident Performer/Headliner and Best Production Show at the Best of Las Vegas Awards.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.

Shortly after Macklemore was dropped from Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour concert for his unapologetic support of Palestine, ticket prices for the singer’s upcoming Philadelphia show have dropped by at least 50 percent.

According to recent TickPick data, the get-in ticket price for Sheeran’s Saturday, September 19, show at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia has plummeted, going for as low as $42 at the time of publication. The tickets were listed at around $100 early Tuesday, September 15, signifying a significant decrease.

Simultaneously, more tickets to his Saturday show — his first since Macklemore, 43, was booted from the tour and the remaining opening acts stepped away in solidarity — are now available. Per the same TickPick repording, the show saw a 54 percent increase in the number of tickets made available from Tuesday morning to the morning of Friday, September 18.

The show’s start time was also changed in the midst of the controversy. Given that Sheeran’s show now has no openers, the concert will begin promptly at 8:00 p.m. ET, per Ticketmaster, three hours after it was initially scheduled to begin.

Related: Ed Sheeran and Macklemore’s ‘Loop Tour’ Drama Explained: What to Know

Ed Sheeran‘s Loop Tour has become the center of a major music-industry controversy after Macklemore was dropped from the lineup following a pro-Palestine chant during his opening set. Fallout from the situation has since sparked chatter from the likes of New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, Pink and a string of other artists. Scroll down […]

Macklemore was removed from Sheeran’s Loop Tour for comments he made during his opening act at Met Life Stadium, in which the Seattle rapper voiced his unapologetic support for the Palestinian people amid Israel’s war in Gaza in response to the deadly October 7, 2023, terrorist attacks. Israel and the United States’ military campaign has resulted in the estimated deaths of over 70,000 Palestinian civilians, including more than 20,000 children, per the Palestinian Health Ministry and the United Nations.

“After Macklemore’s performances at my New Jersey shows, venues on my upcoming tour dates communicated that they would pull the shows if he was still supporting,” Sheeran, 35, claimed via Instagram on Tuesday, breaking his silence on the controversy. “I was informed that this stance was based on how Macklemore conveyed part of his message during his performance, rather than on everything that was said. I spoke with the venues at length all week to try and build a bridge.”

Sheeran continued, “Macklemore coming off tour was the promoter’s decision, it was not mine. Macklemore’s contract for the tour was with the promoter, not me.”

In the wake of Macklemore’s unceremonious dismissal, the remaining opening acts for Sheeran’s tour dropped out in solidarity with the rapper and the Palestinian people.

“Artists must not be silenced when they speak up for the oppressed,” Billie Eilish’s brother, Finneas, wrote on social media at the time, announcing his departure from the tour. “I have decided to withdraw from my upcoming tour dates with Ed Sheeran. I stand with Palestine and its people.”

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Related: Ed Sheeran’s PA Concert Undergoes Major Change Amid Macklemore Controversy

Ed Sheeran’s Saturday, September 19,  Loop Tour concert in Philadelphia will feature a major change as the singer continues to face backlash. The show will begin promptly at 8:00 p.m. ET, per Ticketmaster, three hours after it was initially scheduled to begin. The concert was previously scheduled to start at 5:30 p.m. to account for […]

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Aaron Rowe, an Irish singer who opened for Sheeran in Australia earlier this year and who was scheduled to perform for the final 10 North America Show, announced his own withdrawal from the tour shortly after.

“I don’t take the decision lightly,” he wrote on Instagram. “Ed has been a friend to me and has changed my life, I could never thank him enough for this. But as Irish people we know all too well about genocide, forced famine and violent occupation. I cannot stand by and allow billionaires to use their position of power to silence the rightful voices of those who speak up against Israeli genocide and who highlight the savage murder of children. I would lose all respect for myself to carry on as normal.”

When I think of Mary-Kate Olsen, two things come to mind: the unforgettable, straight-to-video movies she starred in as a child (alongside twin, Ashley Olsen, of course) and her enviable outfits — big bags included. So when the actress-turned-designer recently stepped out in New York City carrying a large, croc-embossed tote, the millennial in me wasn’t surprised. I was, however, very upset, immediately assuming the chic, oversized purse was way out of my price range and likely cost thousands at Olsen’s brand The Row.

While I’m too responsible to empty my bank account on one single accessory, I’ve been thinking about Olsen’s bag for days and found a worthy lookalike on Amazon. The KingTo Luxury Crocodile Embossed Tote Handbag Set is pretty similar: dark brown and structured with a trendy croc-like texture — the kind of extra that elevates your entire outfit and makes you look rich.

Get the KingTo Luxury Crocodile Embossed Tote Handbag Set for $31 (was $36) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

Unlike Olsen’s bag, this PU leather alternative gets you even more bang for your buck because it comes as a set. For under $40, you’ll get the spacious top-handle bag, which includes a crossbody strap and plenty of storage slots, plus a card pouch and a clutch you can keep inside or wear separately. Talk about a fashion deal!

The same luxe-looking tote set is also available in other colors, so if you’re bored with brown, you can snag it in black, red, khaki and more. Reviewers swear it’s everything you imagine and more, with many rating the find 5 stars.

One person summed it up well, saying the bag was “beautiful, expensive-looking but yet affordable,” while another highlighted the “good quality.”

“Perfect, perfect, perfect!” a thrilled shopper wrote. “I love this 3-piece women’s bag set. It is gorgeous, the perfect size, color, versatile, and the best buy for your money. It is the perfect size, shape, and durable.”

As a mom and an overpacker, I’m always looking for bags that fit the essentials and then some, and this KingTo designer-inspired pick checks all my boxes. It’s also much fancier than a flimsy canvas tote, with a croc-like look that gives off wealthy vibes while channeling Olsen, a style icon since her Full House days. Did I mention it’s only $31? Run!

Get the KingTo Luxury Crocodile Embossed Tote Handbag Set for $31 (was $36) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

Looking for something else? Explore more croc-embossed handbags here and don’t forget to check out all of Amazon’s Daily Deals for more great finds!

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.

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Related: I Can’t Believe This Classic ‘Rich Mom’ Leather Tote Is Only $39

As a shopping editor, I spend a good portion of my day browsing fashion must-haves. I’ve tried hard to train myself not to buy every cute item I see, but this faux leather tote is looking pretty tempting — especially since the designer-like pick is priced at just $39. Between busy workdays and outings with my toddler, […]

As someone who tries to work out on a daily basis, I am always on the hunt for a versatile sports bra. It’s not always easy to find one that works for both exercising and daily wear, and my requirements include comfort, functionality and a cute enough look that I don’t mind wearing it out.

The Gym People Longline Sports Bra checks all of my boxes and more. It’s made of a buttery-soft fabric that feels stretchy but still supportive, and it offers a full-coverage design that lets it double as a top on its own. The cropped fit and lightweight feel make it comfy and cute, and I like the slim straps for when it’s worn under a top.

Get The Gym People Longline Sports Bra for $20 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change. 

While this sports bra scores major points for style, it’s also functional for workouts, which matters just as much. The built-in shelf bra offers medium support, so while it might not be the best pick for an intense cardio workout with lots of jumping, it’s perfect for low-impact activities like Pilates, yoga or walking. I like the removable pads for extra padding, and I love that there’s no wiring digging into my skin.

Related: Run! Hilary Duff’s Exact Free People Sports Bra Is Still in Stock

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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 […]

The fabric is super soft, but it’s also moisture-wicking and dries fast, so it holds up well against sweaty skin. The bra feels light, airy and breathable, and the U-shaped back offers smooth lines for layering. I also appreciate the longer cut since I don’t love wearing anything too cropped – I feel comfortable wearing this on its own.

Shoppers are also huge fans of this sports bra, with more than 33,000 people giving it five-star ratings.

“If you are looking for a workout top that you will actually want to wear every single day, this is it,” one reviewer wrote. “I first bought these years ago and have continued buying them ever since.” They added, “It stays in place, nothing shifts around and it provides just the right amount of support for the workouts I do.”

Another shopper noted that the bra is so cute, they wear them even when they’re not working out. “I can go from a workout to a date night paired with a skirt, and they always look fabulous,” they wrote in a review.

Whether you need a new sports bra for your Pilates princess era, or you’re just looking for a sporty, versatile tank top, this longline bra is one to try. And at just $20, you really can’t go wrong — grab this one now.

Get The Gym People Longline Sports Bra for $20 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change. 

Looking for something else? Explore more sports bras here and don’t forget to check out all of Amazon’s Daily Deals for more great finds!

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 –>

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Related: This Machine-Washable Shapewear Smooths Without the Squeeze

Shapewear is often the unsung hero of your wardrobe. The right piece can make a fitted dress or pair of trousers fall more smoothly, but not all shapewear is created equal, and sometimes you find yourself spending the entire day counting down the minutes until you take it off. The Shapermint High-Waisted Tummy Control Shorts, […]

J Balvín is publicly giving his ex Valentina Ferrer her flowers following their shocking breakup after a decade together.

“Today I celebrate your life, Vale,” Balvín, 41, wrote via Instagram on Saturday, September 19, in a post translated from Spanish to English. “I celebrate the woman you are — your light, your strength, the way you love, your wisdom and that heart of yours that makes life more beautiful for those fortunate enough to know you.”

The “Mi Gente” artist (real name José Álvaro Osorio Balvín) went on to praise Ferrer as the mother of their 5-year-old son, Río, and alongside a carousel of throwback images of Ferrer, 32.

“Thank you for giving me the greatest gift in life: Río. Watching you be his mom is one of the things I admire most about you,” he continued in his social media tribute. “There are people who deserve all the flowers — not just for what they do, but for who they are. And today, all the flowers are for you.”

Balvín added, “May God watch over you, bless you, and return to you, multiplied, all the love and light you give. Happy birthday, Vale. 🤍🌹.”

Balvín and Ferrer were together for 10 years before recently calling it quits.

“After sharing so many years and important moments together, José and I have decided to take separate paths,” Ferrer wrote via her Instagram Stories on Wednesday, September 16. “[Our split] has been a decision made from love, respect and the desire to do what is best for our family. Our priority will continue to be always accompanying Río with all our love.”

She concluded, “We are going through this process calmly and deeply appreciate the understanding and respect toward this very personal moment for us.”

Neither Ferrer nor Balvín have further addressed their breakup at the time of publication. Us reached out to the pair’s respective reps for comment at the time.

Balvín first met Ferrer on the set of his “Sigo Extrañándote” music video in 2017 shortly before the pair began dating.

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“There isn’t [one key]. Each couple develops a different kind of complicity and way of approaching the relationship,” Ferrer told Brazil’s G Show earlier this month when asked about the secret to the now-exes’ relationship. “It’s more about respecting each other, knowing how to communicate, and a lot of companionship.”

At the time, Ferrer revealed how they balanced their careers with raising their son.

“Río is 5 years old and already has his own routine with school, activities and playtime. We’re always adjusting our daily lives so we can enjoy time with Río,” Ferrer added on the broadcast. “He doesn’t yet understand the scope of our careers, but that will come with time.”

Sydney Sweeney may be putting on a confident front publicly, but behind the scenes, the intense criticism surrounding her latest advertising campaign is reportedly getting to her.

The actress recently partnered with a sports betting platform, Novig, for a provocative campaign that quickly became the subject of online debate.

Female athletes were among those who objected to the imagery, while Sydney Sweeney also saw her social media following take a huge hit because of the nude ad.

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Sweeney stirred controversy after unveiling her partnership with Novig on September 9. The campaign featured the actress posing without clothes while strategically using different pieces of sporting equipment to cover herself.

Although Sweeney appeared unfazed publicly, a source claimed the reaction has affected her more than she has shown.

“Behind closed doors there have been plenty of tears,” the insider told NE, adding that the actress “can’t understand why she’s always a target.”

Sweeney appeared to respond to the criticism by sharing images of popular athletes who had previously posed nude. However, the source claimed her response should not be mistaken for how she is actually feeling, describing it as her attempt to put on “a brave face.”

The insider maintained that Sweeney never intended to disrespect female athletes with the campaign.

With the actress allegedly already dealing with a lot privately, the source added, “This is the last thing she needs.”

Thousands Of Followers Went Down The Drain As A Result Of The Nude Campaign: ‘A Disaster From A Business Perspective’

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Beyond the emotional impact, the controversy may also be affecting Sweeney’s online presence. The source claimed, “She’s lost tens of thousands of social media followers over this.”

“Her ad was not putting women down,” the insider added, arguing that Sweeney did not anticipate the level of criticism the campaign would attract.

According to the source, the actress has been surprised by how quickly the situation escalated.

The decline in followers could be particularly concerning because Sweeney’s involvement with Novig extends beyond appearing in its advertising.

She also joined the sports betting platform as a strategic partner and equity holder. The insider described the loss of followers as “a disaster from a business perspective.”

Female Athletes Didn’t Find Sydney Sweeney’s Campaign Appealing Either

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Much of the strongest criticism came from women in sports who felt the campaign placed greater emphasis on sexual imagery than athletic accomplishment.

British sprinter Amy Hunt addressed the controversy after finishing fourth in the 200-meter final at the Ultimate Championship in Budapest.

“Sydney Sweeney, this is what women in sport look like,” Hunt told BBC Sport. She went on to highlight the “muscles,” “hard work, blood, sweat, tears” behind athletic success.

As reported by The Blast, American gymnast Gracie Kramer also joined the conversation by sharing footage of herself training. In the caption of the video, she said: “I don’t know what Sydney Sweeney was doing, but this is what women in sport look like.”

Four-time Olympic swimming champion Ariarne Titmus was similarly critical, questioning why “monetizing a woman’s body” and “sexualising women’s sport is still a thing.”

Meanwhile, Olympic cyclist Sophie Capewell argued that the issue was not about denying Sweeney personal choice, but about the limited way women are often presented when it comes to sports and advertising.

Elon Musk’s Mother Jumps To The Actress’s Defense

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Not everyone believes Sweeney deserves the criticism. Billionaire Elon Musk’s mother, Maye Musk, came to the actress’ defense, arguing that women should be able to embrace their appearance without being accused of undermining other women.

Speaking on “Tomi Lahren Is Fearless,” Maye pointed to Sweeney’s work as both an actress and model. “She’s a model,” she said. “Well, she’s an actress, but she’s a model and modeling, you can look sexy and acting, you can look sexy and have fun.”

Maye, who has modeling experience herself and appeared on the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover at 74, had more praise for Sweeney.

“I think she’s fabulous,” she noted, describing the actress as “beautiful” and someone who appears to have a “good sense of humor.”

Her comments offered a different perspective amid the backlash. Rather than viewing the campaign as damaging to women, Maye defended Sweeney’s freedom to use her image as part of her work.

Sydney Sweeney’s Lingerie Brand Is Also Experiencing Downtime

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The Novig controversy comes as Sweeney is allegedly facing another business challenge with SYRN, the lingerie company she launched in January 2026. The brand entered the market with considerable attention but is now said to be struggling to meet initial sales expectations.

A source claimed the company has been holding meetings to develop ways to improve sales. “It’s been a disaster,” the insider said. “They thought it would be a sellout based on Sydney’s brand, but clearly her saleability is waning rapidly.”

SYRN was designed around inclusive sizing, offering bras and underwear across 44 sizes. At launch, Sweeney explained her goal to Elle, saying, “I wanted to build a lingerie brand that feels like it understands women instead of talking at them.”

However, some criticism has focused on how prominently Sweeney herself features in the company’s image.

The Robin Report argued that SYRN’s advertising focuses so heavily on its famous founder while neglecting its target audience. With questions now surrounding both her lingerie business and the controversial Novig partnership, Sweeney appears to be dealing with a whole lot of internal pressure.

Singer Ed Sheeran directly addressed the Macklemore backlash while speaking to the crowd gathered to support the “Shape of You” singer during his tour stop in Philadelphia on Saturday, September 19. Although protesters gathered outside the venue, Sheeran emphasized that what is happening in Gaza is both “catastrophic” and “unjustifiable.”  

On Saturday, Ed Sheeran continued his Loop Tour without Macklemore and performed at Lincoln Financial Stadium. While there, he addressed the criticism and backlash that he has received online and apologized for “making mistakes” in how the situation was handled.

“This is not usually how I would open the show, but before I play some songs tonight, I hope it’s okay if I say a few words about this last week. I’m used to my music being criticized, and I’m always happy to take that because I’m lucky,” he said in remarks recorded by The Hollywood Reporter.

“A lot of you like my stuff, and to be honest, I’m surprised,” he continued. “But this week, the criticism was about something much more important, and I’ve had to take and make difficult decisions, and I am making mistakes, and I’m so, so sorry.”

‘My Concerts Have Always Been A Safe Space For Everyone’

The “Sapphire” singer continued, “I don’t want to disappoint fans, and I’ve never wanted to be an activist musician, but this has put me in the middle of an important and passionate argument about freedom of speech and the most complex political issue on the planet. My concerts have always been a safe space for everyone, and that matters hugely to me. Honoring my commitment to my fans is also completely essential to who I am, and that is why I’m here tonight on my own and continuing my current tour.”

He went on to say that he was “deeply worried about the idea that venues pre-approve content for performance,” noting that, “This happens in so many places that I perform around the world, but it should never happen in the free world.”

The “Thinking Out Loud” singer then went on to “address the question of where I stand in the situation in Israel and Palestine.”

‘What Is Happening In Gaza Is Catastrophic And Unjustifiable’

“I am trying in my career not to be a political commentator of any kind because I want my music and shows to be about unity, not division. About humanity, not politics. But this is a humanitarian issue, and I cannot hide how I feel about it anymore,” he told the audience. “What happened in Israel and at the Nova Music Festival on October 7th was horrific and compounded centuries of Jewish pain.”

“What is happening in Gaza is catastrophic and unjustifiable, and disproportionate,” he continued. “Our hearts can be broken by the scale of devastation and loss of civilians’ lives, of children’s lives, and the systemic injustice we’re seeing unfold in the West Bank cannot be overlooked.”

“I am already speaking to people across the spectrum to work out how to make a contribution that helps victims of these terrible times, and listening and learning because I do not know enough,” he added.

While performing at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium on September 4 and 5, Macklemore made comments in support of Palestine during the two shows. After criticism, Sheeran’s tour promoter said venues threatened to pull out if the rapper was allowed to continue performing.

Following Macklemore’s removal, Sheeran’s supporting acts, including Aaron Rowe, Finneas, and Luke Graham, announced that they were dropping out of the tour in solidarity. Sheeran’s backing band, Beoga, also bowed out as well.

Sheeran performed on Saturday without an opening act, and ticket holders were notified that the concert start time had been adjusted from 5:30 PM to 8 PM.

Ed Sheeran ‘Didn’t Know’ If He Would Perform

After taking the stage at 8 PM, Ed Sheeran told the crowd, “I didn’t know whether I’d be here or not,” adding, “I hope you enjoyed my support performers this evening. I hope you’re great. This is the Loop Tour. The Loop Tour is this thing at my feet, which is called a loop station. It’s this loop station. Everything you hear tonight is completely live. It’s made on the spot, controlled by my feet. There’s no backing track whatsoever.”

Although the concert start time was postponed, protests began around 4:30 PM local time.

Ahead of the concert, a spokesperson for the Philadelphia Police Department told THR in a statement that “as with all large events at the stadium complex, the Philadelphia Police Department is working closely with venue and event organizers to help ensure the safety of concertgoers, employees and neighborhood residents.”

The Sweet Magnolias cast are pouring it out after the Netflix hit was unexpectedly canceled after five seasons.

“All grand adventures must eventually end, and here, dear friends, is where ours does,” a Friday, September 18, statement shared via the show’s official Instagram page read. “Sweet Magnolias is now complete with five seasons streaming on Netflix.”

Sweet Magnolias, based on author Sherryl Woods’ bestselling book series of the same name, followed the lives of three best friends (Joanna Garcia Swisher, Brooke Elliott and Heather Headley) in the small town of Serenity, South Carolina.

“Serenity is for you,” the statement continued, addressing the show’s fans directly. “Every moment of laughter, of heartbreak, or anger, of joy was for you. While this journey may be complete, the Sweet Magnolias will always be there for you when you need them most. Serenity will always be happy to see you. Keep pouring it out!”

Keep scrolling to read the Sweet Magnolias cast’s reflections on the show conclusion:

Chris Medlin

“The people, the people, the people! That’s what will always make Sweet Magnolias so special,” Medlin, who played Isaac on the hit dramedy, wrote via Instagram on Saturday, September 19. “Thank you to this team of creators, our showrunner, writers, and producers over at Netflix for trusting me with this adventure.”

He continued, “When I booked Sweet Magnolias in 2019, I was an offstage understudy and swing for the original cast of Mean Girls on Broadway, and I never could’ve imagined the gift that I was about to be given. Isaac isn’t even from the original book series, but still he found home in Serenity. The past seven years and five seasons of this show are something I will treasure forever. This Serenity family has been with me through innumerable chapters and you have truly changed my life.”

For Medlin, he stressed that he has “nothin but love” for his onscreen persona.

“It was an honor to exist and play and learn through your journey. Your kindness. Your earnestness. Your gentleness,” he added. “I hope that I did you justice for the other Isaacs out there. I will carry you with me for the rest of my life.”

Dion Johnstone

Johnstone portrayed Eric, the love interest to Headley’s Helen.

“To the ones who watched it twice. Three times. Who put it on with their mother and their daughter in the same room,” he began a Friday tribute via Instagram. “Sweet Magnolias is complete, and before anything else, I want to talk to you. You stopped me in airports and grocery stores and parks to tell me what this town meant to you. … That was the whole job. Bringing some joy and some tears into your homes. To have served you in that way has been a privilege I do not take lightly.”

He concluded, “Sad to see this world end. Grateful beyond measure to have lived in it. Serenity is still there whenever you need it.”

Carson Rowland

Rowland portrayed Ty, the eldest son of Maddie (Garcia Swisher) and late ex-husband Bill (Chris Klein), who didn’t appear in the final season.

“End of an era,” he wrote via his Instagram Stories.

Logan Allen

“Sweet Magnolias has truly changed my life. Not only has this show grown me as an actor, but also as a young man,” Allen, who played Ty’s younger brother Kyle, wrote via his Instagram. “The friendships I’ve made will last forever. Truly love this family.”

He added, “Kyle opened me up to so many different things I don’t even know where to begin. I truly grew up beside him, and man what a journey it was. … To the cast, mannnn you guys truly blow me away. Not only is this the most talented group of people I’ve ever been surrounded with, but the nicest, humblest, and most loving. This isn’t the end, we’ll all have a little reunion soon.”

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Artemis

“The past five years have been an honor,” Artemis, who brought Lily to life, wrote via her Instagram Stories. “Words can’t express my gratitude for getting to be a part of this beautiful show.”

Joanna Garcia Swisher

Garcia Swisher will next team up with Sweet Magnolias showrunner Sheryl J. Anderson for a new show, Ladies of the House, at Netflix.

“From the moment I read Lauren Edmondson’s Ladies of the House, I fell completely in love with Daisy, Cricket and Wallis: their relationships, their messiness, their strength, and most of all, their heart,” Garcia Swisher said in a statement. “I am beyond excited to continue to tell meaningful, female-driven stories alongside the incredible Sheryl Anderson. … Netflix has been my creative home for the past seven years, and I couldn’t imagine a better place, or a better team, to tell this story.”

Since the 1950s, American television has had no shortage of fantasy shows, with the genre evolving from simple, easy-on-the-eyes sitcoms and quirky anthologies into massive universes with complex storytelling. Over the years, some of these shows have left a deeper mark on the audience and changed the very direction of the genre.

Since the ’90s, fantasy TV has received a huge upgrade in narrative style and tone, shifting toward modern, relatable settings mixed with the supernatural and teen-oriented narratives. Later on, we got massive, multi-generational franchises that revitalized familiar tropes with modern-day themes, paving the way for the present landscape of fantasy television. The impact of these shows is undeniable, going beyond the screen and into our daily lives. With that in mind, here’s our ranked selection of the most influential fantasy shows of all time.

8

‘True Blood’ (2008–2014)

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Created and produced by Alan Ball and based on Charlaine Harris’ novel series, The Southern Vampire Mysteries, True Blood is set in a universe where the invention of a synthetic blood product has allowed vampires to “come out of the coffin” and live among humans. Set in the fictional town of Bon Temps, Louisiana, the story centers on Sookie Stackhouse, a telepathic waitress who falls in love with a 174-year-old vampire named Bill Compton, which turns her world upside down. Anna Paquin, Stephen Moyer, Carrie Preston, Sam Trammell, and Alexander Skarsgård play the main characters.

Among all the vampire-themed shows of its time, True Blood stands out as a masterpiece with its adult-driven themes. Exploring the struggles of vampires for equal rights and acceptance within human society, the show’s themes serve as a direct metaphor for real-world issues like civil rights, sexuality, and the treatment of marginalized communities. Witty, bizarre, and often sensual, True Blood smartly blends mystery, comedy, fantasy, and Southern Gothic romance into a decadent, blood-soaked story that left a distinct mark on fantasy television.

7

‘The Vampire Diaries’ (2009–2017)

Image via The CW

A series adaptation of L.J. Smith’s novels developed by Kevin Williamson and Julie Plec, The Vampire Diaries revolves around Elena Gilbert, an orphaned teenager who falls in love with a 162-year-old vampire named Stefan Salvatore. Their relationship becomes increasingly complicated after Stefan’s mysterious brother, Damon, returns to town alongside Elena’s doppelgänger, Katherine Pierce. Nina Dobrev, Paul Wesley, and Ian Somerhalder play the lead trio, with Kat Graham, Candice King, and Zach Roerig as other main characters.

The CW’s biggest debut in its day, The Vampire Diaries redefined and cemented the network’s identity at the peak of its broadcast era and became an early trailblazer of social media fandom culture. Though not an instant hit, The Vampire Diaries grew in popularity over the later seasons, eventually becoming an essential vampire show that defined the 2010s. It reshaped the supernatural teen drama genre and triggered the massive rise of vampire-themed shows across streaming and television at the time.

6

‘Adventure Time’ (2010–2018)

Image via Cartoon Network

A multi-award-winning animated fantasy series created by Pendleton Ward, based on his viral hit 2007 short film of the same name, Adventure Time follows the story of a young boy named Finn and his best friend and adoptive brother, a dog named Jake, in a post-apocalyptic land. Twelve-year-old Finn battles evils in the land of Ooo and roams around with his shapeshifting, magical dog, interacting with eccentric and fantastical characters like Princess Bubblegum, Ice King, Marceline the Vampire Queen, and a video game console named BMO. Jeremy Shada, John DiMaggio, Hynden Walch, Tom Kenny, Olivia Olson, and Niki Yang voice the key characters.

During its run, Adventure Time was a huge hit for Cartoon Network, winning eight Emmys, a Peabody, and three Annie Awards. The animated series was incredibly popular for its unique style, which blends silly comedy and whimsical fantasy with deep, mature storytelling and a rich post-apocalyptic world. Adventure Time has since redefined modern animated fantasy with its originality and worldbuilding, and by evolving alongside its audience to become a true generational masterpiece.

5

‘Charmed’ (1998–2006)

Image via The WB

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The first primetime series to feature a coven of witches, Charmed was created by Constance M. Burge and centers on sisters Prue, Piper, and Phoebe (and later Paige), all of whom are gifted with magical powers to protect good from evil. The series chronicles their challenges and achievements as they harness their special abilities while maintaining a normal urban life in ’90s San Francisco, navigating romance, friendships, and regular life. The iconic sisters are played by Shannen Doherty, Holly Marie Combs, Alyssa Milano, and Rose McGowan.

During its run, Charmed was the longest-running hour-long series with an all-female lead cast, and the network’s second-longest drama show. The fantasy drama was not only immensely popular at the time — it became a pop culture icon. With its themes of adult sisterhood and female empowerment, and the uniquely refreshing depiction of witchcraft, Charmed redefined supernatural fantasy TV and left a lasting impact on the genre that still reflects in modern shows.

4

‘Castlevania’ (2017–2021)

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Created and written by Warren Ellis, Castlevania is an action-horror fantasy adult animated series adapted from the Japanese video game series of the same name. The Netflix original follows Trevor Belmont, the last surviving soul of his disgraced clan, who, along with Alucard and Sypha Belnades, sets out to defend the nation of Wallachia from Vlad Dracula and his legion of vampires. Richard Armitage, James Callis, Alejandra Reynoso, Graham McTavish, Emily Swallow, and Theo James voice the main characters.

One of the first major adult-animated shows on Netflix, Castlevania was an instant hit when it premiered, carving a new path for Western animation with its unique visual style and character designs. Featuring rich animation inspired by anime aesthetics and the original game’s art, Castlevania ranks among the finest video game adaptations on screen. The series has been noted for heavily influencing the rise of serious, narrative-driven adult animation and expanding Netflix’s animation profile, paving the way for similar high-concept shows like Arcane and Blue Eye Samurai.

3

‘Supernatural’ (2005–2020)

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The longest-running live-action fantasy series in American television history, Supernatural is a thrilling dark fantasy show created by Eric Kripke that follows brothers Sam and Dean Winchester, who travel across the United States hunting supernatural creatures. In the later story arcs, they also fight angels, demons, and other cosmic threats, and attempt to save the world from multiple apocalypses. Jensen Ackles and Jared Padalecki star as the Winchester brothers, with Misha Collins, Mark A. Sheppard, Mark Pellegrino, and more as other main characters.

Supernatural is a fun, exciting, and surprisingly soulful fantasy show that explores Judeo-Christian lore, found family, brotherhood, and nostalgic Americana, ranking among the best American fantasy series of all time. Its enduring legacy lies in its deeper themes, the epic evolution of its scale, and the unique meta-narrative, which completely changed how fantasy shows interact with their audience. A show that ran through every decade of this century, Supernatural and its cast have since transformed into massive pop-culture phenomena, amassing a loyal global fandom and spawning several would-be successors.

2

‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ (1997–2003)

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A TV and pop culture landmark of the ’90s and 2000s, Buffy the Vampire Slayer centers on the titular teenage protagonist, played by Sarah Michelle Gellar in a performance that thrust her into global stardom. The supernatural horror drama follows Buffy, the latest successor in a long lineage of vampire slayers, as she balances modern teenage life and high school drama with fighting evil forces and dealing with dangerous prophecies. Other popular characters from the show are played by Nicholas Brendon, Alyson Hannigan, Charisma Carpenter, Anthony Stewart Head, and Michelle Trachtenberg.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer is an essential Y2K show that defined fantasy television of the era with its perfect balance of late-’90s grunge and early-2000s futurism. The series was an instant critical and cultural success that revisited everyday teenage angst through powerful fantasy horror metaphors. The show established a blueprint for the tone and style of teen fantasies, particularly supernatural horror, shaping pop culture, TV tropes, and the aesthetic of the turn of the millennium.

1

‘Game of Thrones’ (2011–2019)

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David Benioff and D. B. Weiss’s fantasy drama adaptation of George R.R. Martin’s novel series, A Song of Ice and Fire, Game of Thrones ushered in a new dimension to fantasy television. The multi-generational saga explores complex politics, shaky morality, and ruthless pursuits of power between the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros, all vying for the Iron Throne, while the rise of a mysterious supernatural force just outside their borders threatens to end all life. The show features a massive international cast, with Peter Dinklage, Kit Harington, Emilia Clarke, Lena Headey, Sophie Turner, and Nikolaj Coster-Waldau starring in notable roles.

With its epic scale, grand visuals, and out-of-this-world character designs and stories, Game of Thrones wasn’t just popular — it became a cornerstone of international pop culture of the 2010s. Noted for its darker narrative and expansive world-building that became a television universe of its own, the eight-season series redefined how people looked at fantasy shows. With record-breaking success and phenomenal production, Game of Thrones is an HBO landmark that ranks high among the most groundbreaking fantasy shows of all time.