Ariana Biermann and Hudson McLeroy are ready to finally shine a light on what went wrong in their relationship.

“Since I was 14, I saw this boy who I loved, who I wanted to help. He always called me when he was down bad,” Ariana, 24, shared in the Wednesday, June 24, season 2 premiere of Next Gen NYC. “He knew I was going to be there because I care about this person so deeply and they deserve somebody to be there and hold their hand. As time went on, I kind of realized nobody was holding mine.”

The former Don’t Be Tardy star claimed that Hudson, 24, wouldn’t take her on dates and “do any of these things.”

“I felt very alone,” Ariana said, revealing they had a different love language and he didn’t show up for her the way she needed. “I don’t know what to do. I don’t know how to help you. He just needs to grow up.”

Related: Ariana Biermann Reflected on Bringing Hudson Onto ‘Next Gen NYC’ Before Split

Ariana Biermann admitted she had “hesitation” over bringing now-ex boyfriend Hudson McLeroy onto Next Gen NYC — especially because of a possible breakup. “It’s a little nerve-wracking bringing somebody onto a TV show with you and putting your whole relationship out for the world to see,” Biermann, 24, exclusively told Us Weekly earlier this month […]

In October 2025, Ariana announced via social media that her romance with Hudson had come to an end after several years of dating. Season 2 of Bravo’s Next Gen NYC is expected to follow the pair as they navigate a new chapter of their lives as just friends.

“It’s complicated. I love this person. I care about this person so deeply,” Ariana said in a confessional interview during Wednesday’s episode. “I pray for him every night and pray for him to surround himself with the right people.”

Hudson also had the opportunity to share his side of the story. When reflecting on the breakup, the entrepreneur didn’t realize how much change would come when the pair said goodbye to Atlanta and hello to the Big Apple.

“Ariana and I have known each other for 10 years. We officially started dating around the age of 18 or 19. After season 1, we didn’t realize the amount of stress New York had put on our relationship,” he shared in a separate confessional interview. “I just wasn’t emotionally growing, not working in anything, not having any kind of drive to want to go do anything, just kind of becoming unattractive to her, which in turn made her break up with me.”

While previews for season 2 show Hudson and Ariana exploring new friendships and relationships, the duo have also dropped hints that a reconciliation could be in their future.

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As fans prepare to tune in, Ariana promises that she will always keep it real.

“I’m very much of an over-sharer, which also can bite me in the ass,” she exclusively told Us Weekly before the season 2 premiere. “I’m not really afraid of anything.”

Next Gen NYC airs on Bravo Wednesdays at 9 p.m. Stream new episodes the next day on Peacock.

Brooks Nader is setting the record straight about her relationship status with Taron Egerton.

The media personality has clarified some truths about the dozens of speculations that have surrounded her recent sightings with the actor, stating that no strings are really attached.

Brooks Nader and Taron Egerton fueled romance rumors earlier in the year by sharing moments of public affection in California, attesting to their undeniable chemistry.

The model, who was recently spotted in Venice Beach while filming the upcoming “Baywatch” reboot, addressed the growing speculation surrounding her connection with the actor. While they have been spotted grabbing dinner in Santa Monica and appearing rather romantic, Nader insists it is not that deep. 

Nader explained that despite all the closeness between them, she never considered them an official couple. Instead, she is ravishing life as an officially single woman who is on a dating spree and enjoying meeting new people. 

The television star emphasized that she is not dating Egerton or anyone else at the moment. According to TMZ, Nader’s comments come after earlier reports claimed the pair had gone on several dates and were exploring a romantic connection. 

The Duo Turned Up The Heat On Romance Rumors In April

The pair were recently seen sharing affectionate moments during an outing at Shutters on the Beach in Santa Monica, fueling reports that the duo may be comfortable becoming more public with their romantic relationship.

The Blast stated that images from the outing showed the model and the British actor embracing, sharing kisses, and appearing relaxed and comfortable in each other’s company. Throughout the day, the two stayed close, exchanging playful and affectionate gestures that suggested an easy connection between them.

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Reports indicate their relationship could be more than just physical. An inside source revealed that Nader and Egerton have become friends through their passion for acting and creative work. The source described Egerton as both charismatic and grounded, adding that Nader admired both his talent and personality.

The inside also said that Nader’s biggest takeaway is Egerton’s genuineness and friendliness. Currently, the relationship has grown organically, and both are said to be enjoying the process of familiarizing themselves with one another without haste.

Brooks Nader And Taron Egerton’s Bond Reportedly Grew Through Mutual Friends

The passion-filled outing was not the first time Nader and Egerton had been spotted together in public, as they were caught passing time at a screening of “Project Hail Mary” before later heading out for drinks. 

Another insider added that the actor and the TV star’s bond developed naturally, thanks to their mutual friends and overlapping social circles. The rumored couple were reportedly often introduced through mutual friends and frequently found themselves in similar environments before becoming closer.

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Both Nader and Egerton entered this rumored romance following previous public relationships. Nader was most recently linked to her former “Dancing With The Stars” partner, Gleb Savchenko, before their on-and-off relationship ended in April 2025.

As the former couple parted ways, sources claimed that their split was very amicable and respectful, and Nader switched gears to focus on her growing career. At the core of their breakup was the understanding that not every relationship is meant to progress despite mutual admiration.

Egerton has also been involved in several relationships in the past, including past romances with Emily Thomas and later Chloe Bennet. When this romance ended, sources revealed that the TV star also spent time focusing on personal growth while staying open to moving on romantically at the right time.

The ‘Dancing With The Stars’ Alum’s Dating History Before Her Latest Chapter With The Actor

Prior to her involvement in high-profile romances, the media personality’s longest relationship was with her former husband, Billy Haire. As shared by The Blast, the model had previously shared that she began dating her ex at 18 and ended that chapter of her life at 27. 

According to Nader, Haire was her first ever boyfriend and her earliest experience with romantic relationships, leading to them getting married when she was 22.

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Reflecting on the divorce, Nader revealed that some members of her family did not support the decision, but she was resilient in making the healthiest choice for her future. 

Following the separation in May 2024, reports surfaced in July 2024 linking Nader to NFL star Tom Brady. However, sources at the time described them as very casual and suggested they were several social circles apart.

Months later, the TV star sparked romance rumors with her “Dancing With the Stars” partner, Gleb Savchenko, during season 33 of the show. By 2025, Nader fueled romance rumors with Spanish tennis star Carlos Alcaraz after her sister, Grace Ann Nader, subtly hinted that the two were seeing each other on the low. 

The linking did not end there; she was equally rumored to be seeing Italian tennis player Jannik Sinner during the same period, prompting speculations about her dating life.

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Nader eventually responded to the reports about her romantic choices, suggesting modern dating is more flexible than assumed, and questioned why women are judged for exploring connections.

Brooks Nader’s Ex Revealed About A Botched Intimacy Episode Between Them

Gleb Savchenko made headlines after revealing information about his past romance with Nader and going on to share insider knowledge about their time.

The “Dancing With The Stars” pro shared his thoughts on their relationship and gave his not-so-subtle opinion on their chemistry when he appeared on Dakota Mortensen’s “Unwell Winter Games” podcast.

Savchenko went on to recall an incident he said happened during their relationship, alleging that one interaction became unexpectedly physical and resulted in him chipping a tooth.

According to him, Nader tried to start the romance when he was not feeling it, and when it got rough, he hit a wall and broke a tooth. The dancer described it as a chaotic experience that is stuck in his memory despite the fact that the relationship ended.

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Will Brooks Nader and Taron Egerton transition to something greater in the coming months?

According to the news outlet, event planners have also asked for permits to clear space for production trucks, tents, and overhead canopies surrounding the venue. Meanwhile, city officials are coordinating logistics under the firm belief that Madison Square Garden will certainly lay witness to a major Swift-related event come early July.

Additionally, sources also shared that multiple players from Kelce’s football team, Kansas City Chiefs, have secured accommodations at the iconic Marriott Marquis in Times Square for a timeframe close to the couple’s wedding.

The Couple Has Come Under Scrutiny Over Reports Of A Permit To Shut Down Streets Around MSG

News of Kelce and Swift’s alleged plans to close down streets in the Madison Square Garden area has been met with backlash, with many branding the duo’s rumored decision to wedd at such an elaborate venue as “tacky.”

One individual said, “Im sorry but an arena wedding is tacky as f-ck in terms of aesthetics…I would of thought she’d wed on some cute farm-land or sum.”

“So expensive yet so tacky and cheap at the same time,” another noted, while a third commented, “Having a wedding at madison square garden reeks of desperation for attention.”

Another X user wrote, “Thats actually so inconsiderate and rude her entitlement is showing people have places to be.”

“Yeah sure, inconvenience thousands of people and clog up traffic around the 4th of July in the biggest city in the country. Absolutely insane & selfish. I hope the permit gets denied,” a peeved individual said.

One more critic noted, “Taylor truly is the worst kind of famous person lmfao. with all that money could’ve easily gone to a private island, or anywhere nice. but no, let’s go ahead and inconvenience everyday working class people for 3 days and get married in NYC…”

Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce Received Some Support For Their Move To Shut Down Streets

Amid the criticism, fans of the star came out to defend her request for a permit to shut down street, with some arguing that it’s necessary for security reasons.

“It’s funny people in the quotes are pretending she’s evil for closing streets even though there are blocks of Manhattan closed off regularly for movie shoots and even music videos and nobody bats an eye,” a swiftie said.

Another noted, “People reacting negatively like this is for snobbish reasons but in reality is this not for literally everyone’s safety? Imagine she didn’t do this. Thousands of psychos & paparazzi, helicopters, police, & cars all trying to pile up to catch a glimpse. It would be a nightmare.”

One more fan wrote, “Wtf is wrong with y’all?? Even if this is true, it’s their wedding. They’re free to celebrate however they want. Calling it ‘tacky’ or ’embarrassing’ because it isn’t your style is ridiculous. They don’t need your approval.”

The Couple Previously Got Called Out By Business Owners Around The MSG

Prior to their permit request, Swift and Kelce already had business owners around Madison Square Garden dreading their upcoming nuptials, with many telling TMZ that they had yet to be notified about what to expect on that day.

One individual even predicted that the couple might shut down the area for security reasons, branding it a “disaster” for businesses, especially around the 4th of July period.

Another small business owners stated at the time that if Swift and Kelce were to truly take over MSG and it’s environs, they should consider compensating the workers and entrepreneurs in the area, whom their wedding celebrations might inconvenience.

Taylor Swift Is Reportedly Facing Pressure For Her Nuptials To Be ‘Perfect’

Ahead of her big celebration, sources have revealed that Swift is trying her best not to get weigh down by the expectations surrounding her wedding.

According to the insiders, the pop superstar is under serious pressure for her big day to go perfectly, and is also dealing with security concerns and personal drama with former friends who have yet to be invited to the wedding.

“The last thing Taylor wants is for her wedding to turn into a big showbiz circus,” a source told Star Magazine. “She’s trying not to get bogged down by the guest list and all the details, but it’s difficult with so much global attention and the pressure for everything to be perfect.”

Since the blockbuster success of Marvel’s Deadpool & Wolverine, Hugh Jackman has starred in three films. His latest, The Death of Robin Hood, sees him take on the legendary outlaw in a darker reimagining of the classic tale. Despite overall positive reviews from critics, the A24 film has struggled at the box office, ending a strong run for the actor that continued earlier this year with The Sheep Detectives. For viewers looking for a lighter alternative, the quirky murder mystery with an all-star ensemble is now set to reach a wider audience, with Prime Video confirming its streaming release date.

Written by The Last of Us co-creator Craig Mazin and directed by Kyle Balda, Sheep Detectives adapts Leonie Swann‘s 2005 international best-selling novel, Three Bags Full. A whodunit dubbed “Babe meets Knives Out,” the story sees Jackman as a shepherd named George who reads his flock murder mystery novels at night, unaware that they’re in fact capable of comprehension. When George is suddenly murdered, the flock band together to help solve the mystery, finding ways to point clumsy police officer, Tim Derry (Nicholas Braun) to clues. Key figures you can expect to see in a whodunit are present with Nicholas Galitzine as a curious reporter, Emma Thompson as George’s lawyer, Lydia Harbottle, and a list of suspects led by George’s daughter, Rebecca (Molly Gordon). Other stars, including Julia Louis-Dreyfus (Seinfeld), Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad), and Brett Goldstein (Ted Lasso), among others, lend their voices to the fluffy sleuths.

‘Sheep Detectives’ Is Hugh Jackman’s Highest-Rated Movie

Sheep Detectives took a delightfully odd premise and turned it into one of the year’s biggest surprises, all while avoiding the typical pitfalls that often plague adaptations of its kind. The family-friendly mystery earned widespread praise from both critics. In her review for Collider, Tania Hussain highlighted the film’s restraint, noting that “the jokes are sharp, but not desperate,” while its emotional moments are “sweet, but not syrupy.” Hussein summed up Sheep Detectives as the year’s sweetest surprise, a sentiment most critics share, given the movie’s 95% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes. At that near-perfect figure, Sheep Detectives is officially Jackman’s highest-rated movie ever. The site’s critics consensus describes the film as “drolly funny and sweet as a lamb,” praising it for packaging surprisingly profound themes within a cozy and entertaining mystery.

The acclaim was well reflected in the box office results. Despite opening in a crowded marketplace that included Mortal Kombat II, The Devil Wears Prada 2, Michael, and Project Hail Mary, Sheep Detectives grossed an impressive $126 million worldwide against a reported $75 million budget. Following its successful theatrical run, Prime Video confirmed that the film will begin streaming on June 24, meaning the critically acclaimed film is now available to stream right now! The streamer shared the news with a playful video featuring Jackman alongside the movie’s woolly stars, which you can check out above.

Stay tuned to Collider for more streaming updates.

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Release Date

May 8, 2026

Runtime

109 Minutes

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Director

Kyle Balda

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Hannah Montana star Mitchel Musso was noticeably absent from the show’s 20th anniversary special earlier this year — and now he’s revealing why.

“Of course they asked me [to be in it],” Musso, 34, revealed on the “Joe Vulpis Podcast” on Wednesday, June 24. “But, it wasn’t presented correctly [to me].”

Musso appeared in more than 70 episodes of the classic Disney Channel comedy series, playing Miley Stewart’s (Cyrus) best friend Oliver Oken alongside Emily Osment’s Lilly Truscott.

The star explained to host Joe Vulpis that he truly valued the opportunity to play Oliver again since he’d mostly been living outside the spotlight for the past decade. Instead, Disney opted for a retrospective look back at Hannah Montana.

“I’ve been waiting ten years,” he stressed. “The people, they say, 20. My break’s been 10. It’s too long of a wait to do it in a way that isn’t even close to, in my opinion, correct.”

The Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special aired in March and featured Cyrus, 33, looking back on memorable moments from the show, alongside host Alex Cooper and celebrity guests such as Chappell Roan and Selena Gomez.

In his new interview, Musso said he would relish the chance of actually getting to play Oliver again in a proper Hannah Montana episode.

“I need a wig,” he joked. “I’d want the hair, which is fine. I’ve worn [wigs] plenty of times on Disney. I’ve worn plenty of wigs. … I’d want to feel the part again. I’d want to put on that little polo again, and wear the … plaid shorts with the goofy shoes.”

The actor went on, “I’d want to play the character, yeah. Once I saw myself doing it, I’d say, ‘Oh, there you are!’ Let’s get out there and let’s do it.”

Musso was not the only major Hannah Montana cast member missing from the anniversary special, as Osment, 34, could not appear due to her filming obligationa on CBS sitcom Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage.

“We’re at Georgie & Mandy … and that’s why I was not able to be part of the 20-year reunion, because we are here shooting our show,” she said in a social media video at the time. “But I wanted to say hello and thank you to everybody that has stuck by us for all these years. I’m so grateful that you guys all still love the show. I’m so proud to be a part of it.”

Ahead of the Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special airing in March, Musso paid tribute to the show with his own Instagram post.

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Related: Miley Cyrus Claims Dad Billy Ray Once Smoked Pot on ‘Hannah Montana’ Set

Miley Cyrus is still fielding questions about Hannah Montana more than a decade after its end — and she has some hilarious memories to share. During the Thursday, June 19, episode of her mom Tish Cyrus and sister Brandi Cyrus’ “Sorry We’re Cyrus” podcast, the Grammy winner, 32, opened up about a moment that never […]

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“Hannah Montana wrapped around my heart and never really let go. We literally grew up with ya’ll — long days, crazy schedules, learning lines, cracking up between takes, and figuring out life while the cameras rolled,” he wrote. “It taught me so many wonderful values, but the most important ‘to me’ is that laughter can get you through the tough days. That confidence still sticks with me every single day.”

He also shouted out his costars, writing, “Miley, Emily, Jason [Earles], Billy Ray [Cyrus], Moises [Arias], and the whole crew at Disney — you became my family through all the real, messy, beautiful moments. Thank you for believing in a goofy kid from Texas who wore some questionable outfits with a haircut like that. To all of you, thank you for welcoming me into your homes and hearts 20 years ago and still allowing me to be here today. I’m honored we get to share all of this together.”

Hannah Montana originally aired for four seasons between 2006 and 2011. Classic episodes, as well as the Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special, can be streamed via Disney+.

When it comes to celebrity-backed skincare, I’ve learned that most of the ‘game‑changing’ products are way out of my price range. But every so often, an over‑the‑counter miracle-worker pops up on my radar. Such is the case with Nicole Kidman’s go-to wrinkle-repair cream, which diminishes the appearance of wrinkles in as little as three weeks. Better yet, it’s 47% off for Amazon Prime Day!

Back in 2017, the Oscar-winning actress did a commercial for the fast-acting cream and has even credited the product as part of her daily skincare regimen. The ageless beauty later told Hello Giggles it has all the benefits of a regular retinol product, but she doesn’t “break out from it” or end up feeling dry and flaky after use. In other words, it’s a true unicorn product — something that smooths and brightens without sending skin into a full‑blown meltdown.

Get the Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Regenerating Cream for $20 (was $37) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

Already purchased more than 10,000 times this month, this over-the-counter cream is renowned for turning back the clock, with wrinkles and fine lines softening around the under-eye, cheek and crow’s feet area for many users. And when it comes to more stubborn, frustrating concerns — i.e. dark spots, dullness and dehydrated skin — users say the affordable skin cream swoops in to save the day, leaving them with brighter, smoother and more even-toned skin.

Related: Amazon Shoppers Say This $22 Eye Cream ‘Erases’ Fine Lines in Weeks

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You know that moment when you glance in the rearview mirror at a stoplight and suddenly notice every tiny crease around your eyes? The lighting is brutal, the verdict feels final and the thought of getting serious about an eye cream is the only thing on your mind. Fortunately, you don’t have to spend a […]

Formulated without parabens, mineral oil or dyes, this Neutrogena wrinkle-repair cream uses hyaluronic acid to deliver a surge of hydration and plumpness. With a creamy texture that absorbs quickly into the skin, it’s easy to use day and night — exactly what Neutrogena recommends for best results.

And while Neutrogena carries its own testimonials — with 77% of users saying they saw a reduction in fine lines and 89% saying their skin felt smoother — Amazon reviewers also can’t stop raving about this drugstore gem. Five-star reviewers say their skin is “softer and smoother with reduced lines.”

“I’ve noticed a more youthful and radiant complexion, and I consistently reorder it because it delivers consistent results,” one happy customer said. “I’ve tried other anti-aging products over the years, but none have worked as effectively or given me the same smooth, glowing skin as this one.”

“I had given this a try when I ran out of my expensive wrinkle reducer. Within 3 weeks, my fine lines were almost erased,” a 73-year-old reviewer said. “My skin is plumper and feels moisturized; not greasy or oily.”

Do yourself a favor and give those pricey creams and irritating retinol products a rest. After all, if it’s good enough for Kidman — whose skin refuses to stop glowing — it’s definitely worth a spot in your own routine.

Get the Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Regenerating Cream for $20 (was $37) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

Not what you’re looking for? Scope out more retinol creams here and don’t forget to check out Amazon’s Daily Deals for more great finds. 

Related: Thousands of Amazon Reviewers Use This Gentle Retinol to ‘Erase’ Fine Lines

If there’s an industry that’s ridiculously oversaturated with endless products that promise miracle results, it’s skincare. But when it comes to reviewer testimonials, visible, long-lasting results and real-world performance without the splurge, Amazon shoppers say LilyAna Natural Retinol Face Cream is a rare standout that deserves every one of its 8,000+ five‑star reviews. Far from […]

Lizzo is facing major mockery online after her comeback album, “B-tch,” underperformed at release and failed to crack the Billboard 200.

The Grammy-winning singer has spoken up about her recent struggles in the industry, citing her label’s alleged unwillingness to promote her, changes in how fans consume music, and a shift in public opinion following disturbing allegations from her former backup dancers.

Several Hollywood executives have also weighed in on the album’s dismal performance, with some suggesting that Lizzo lacks a strong core fanbase.

Just four years ago, Lizzo was one of the industry’s biggest names, especially after her 2022 album “Special” debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200.

After exploding onto the scene in 2019, she went on to deliver major hits like “About Damn Time” and “Truth Hurts,” picking up four Grammy wins along the way.

However, she has struggled to replicate that success, as her highly anticipated new album, “B-tch,” released on June 5, 2026, via Atlantic Records, suffered a major commercial setback.

According to data from Luminate, the album sold just 2,649 copies in its opening week and pulled in fewer than 2.7 million on-demand streams, per Rolling Stone.

Things declined further in the second week, with album sales dropping to 650 units and streams dipping to just under 900,000. It was a far cry from her 2022 project, which debuted with 39,000 copies sold and 69,000 equivalent album units earned.

Most surprisingly, “B-tch” failed to crack the Billboard 200, making it a major commercial disappointment compared to her previous hits.

Fans Mock The Singer As Album Struggles To Connect

Social media users are having a field day deriding Lizzo, with many sharing why they believe the album flopped.

“Well, this is what happens when you build a career solely on sensation and not your musical talent,” an X user wrote. “She lost weight, and in the people’s eyes, the only thing interesting about her was gone.”

“Her gimmick fell off. Big girl empowerment is out of style right now,” someone else suggested, while another said, “This is new levels of flopping omg she has her own floor in the Khia asylum.”

One user penned, “How does she not realize she’s been canceled? Those lawsuits and allegations definitely turned people against her. You are doing body positivity, but abusing other women(allegedly) when women are your major base. It’s hard to come back from that.”

Industry Insiders Question Lizzo’s Fanbase

Industry insiders have offered a number of reasons why the “Juice” rapper appears to be struggling to regain momentum.

Among the issues raised were concerns that she never had a strong core fanbase and that there is a current shift from traditional radio consumption to streaming platforms.

“I think the biggest reason is that she never had a core fanbase,” a former senior label executive told Rolling Stone. “She was a very song-driven, radio-hits-driven artist who lacked a core fanbase, and that’s what you need today for career longevity.”

Lizzo Blames Industry Shifts For Album Struggles

Lizzo herself appeared to address that suspicion when she replied to an X post asking where all the people who were buying tickets to her shows barely two years ago had gone.

“I actually can answer this: the industry changed so much in the last 3 yrs. streaming replaced radio & I was a radio darling. That’s how my fans discovered my music. Not to mention the very obvious & public attack on my career changed things,” she wrote on the popular social media platform.

The singer added, “But I’m out here doing my absolute best, and u can’t knock a b-tch for that.”

Lawsuit Remains A Shadow Over Musician’s Comeback

However, some critics refused to give her a pass for the excuse. Industry pundit Ray Daniels told Rolling Stone that he believes she did not take enough responsibility and could have, slowly but surely, guided her fans on how to find her in the new world of streaming platforms.

“I speak like a manager, that’s all BS to me,” Daniels said. “If you know that the industry is changing, you should be warning your fans ahead of time. Why are you not telling your fans to request your song on radio? They’re your fans, they’ll do what you ask them to do.”

Meanwhile, others suggested that her legal battle with three former backup dancers, in which she was accused of fostering a toxic work environment and sexual harassment, may also have affected her.

“A big part of her brand was being the underdog and being very self-confident, I am who I am, I support everyone, body positivity,” the former senior label exec noted. “And when you’re called to task for the mistreatment of exactly what you held out as being your, quote-unquote, brand, then fans don’t wanna see you win anymore, and they desert you.”

Some childhood wounds never truly disappear, they simply wait for the right moment to be confronted. For Alicia Keys, that moment came long before she became a global superstar. 

In a powerful new documentary, the Grammy winner opened up about the heartbreak of growing up without her father, the painful letter she wrote as a young teenager cutting him out of her life, and the unexpected journey that eventually helped transform years of anger into healing.

Alicia Keys revisited one of the most painful chapters of her childhood in her new documentary, “Alicia Keys: Girl From Hell’s Kitchen.”

The singer revealed that when she was just 13 years old, years of disappointment and broken promises finally pushed her to write a devastating letter to her father, Craig Cook.

Cook walked out when Keys was only two years old, leaving her mother, Terria Joseph Augello, to raise her alone. 

By the time the “No One” singer reached her teenage years, she had grown tired of waiting for a father who repeatedly drifted in and out of her life.

Reflecting on that period, Keys explains that missed visits and empty promises became a painful pattern.

“There’s a lot of promises of different meetings and moments between Craig and I and those moments wouldn’t come, they’d be delayed or deferred,” she said per the Daily Mail. “I remember that happening for a long time, I was just like I don’t want to feel like that, I don’t want it to be halfway.”

Eventually, the hurt turned into anger. “I was so furious, I was so over it, I didn’t care any more and I wanted him to know it, I wanted everybody to know it,” she shared.

Sitting at her kitchen table, she poured those feelings into a letter that left no room for misunderstanding. Keys told her father all she needed was for him to mind his business.

“I don’t want the phone calls, I don’t want the letters, I don’t want the fake acts that you pull to try and make me think you care. I don’t want anything. That’s the only way you can make me happy,” the 45-year-old wrote.

Keys Reflects On A Childhood Marked By Her Father’s Absence

The documentary traces Alicia Keys’ upbringing in Manhattan’s Hell’s Kitchen, where she was raised by her mother after Cook left the family.

Terria and Cook had only been on three dates before she became pregnant, but she chose to keep the baby despite the challenges ahead. 

To support her daughter, Terria worked multiple jobs and even sacrificed her own dreams of pursuing theater so she could afford piano lessons.

Reflecting on her father’s absence, Keys emphasized, “My father wasn’t there when I was born…on that evening Mommy lay in bed wondering how she would come up with the money for the hospital bill.”

She added, “The story of that day is, in many ways, the story of my relationship with Craig. He wasn’t there and, once the difficult moments had come and gone he would suddenly show up. Only to vanish again.”

According to the songwriter, Cook even brought her to his mother’s house, saying, “here’s your grandchild,” before leaving once again.

Alicia Keys Found Stability Through Her Mother And Grandparents

Although her father struggled to remain present, Keys says she never lacked determination at home. Her mother worked relentlessly to keep them afloat during difficult financial periods.

“Mom was (one year) enduring a particularly stressful financial season and would often find herself short on rent,” Keys recalled.

She continued, “Mom worked hours and hours. She would come home and sleep real quick and go back to work.”

During those long stretches alone, music became both a refuge and an emotional outlet. The “Girl On Fire” singer  immersed herself in blues and jazz while quietly channeling the pain surrounding her father into songwriting.

She also found another important influence in her grandfather, Joseph Augello, a former police officer who became the “main father figure” in her life. 

Beyond admiring his trademark fedora hats and sharp sense of style, Keys credited him with providing the stability she longed for throughout childhood.

Keys Says ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ Helped Her Heal Old Wounds

For years, the painful letter remained symbolic of the emotional distance between father and daughter. 

That finally began to change while Alicia Keys was writing and producing her Tony Award-winning Broadway musical “Hell’s Kitchen,” which was loosely inspired by her own life.

As she developed the father figure for the show’s central character, she unexpectedly found herself confronting emotions she had buried for decades.

Writing that character became, in her words, a “big vehicle for healing.” Another turning point came through her grandmother.

“My grandmother’s dying wish was that she wanted family unity,” Keys said, adding, “That really woke me up to something. Craig didn’t have to be my dad but he was my father.”

Rather than rewriting the past, she found herself viewing it through a different lens, allowing room for acceptance without denying the hurt she had experienced.

Alicia Keys And Cook Reflect On Their Relationship Today

Jennifer Aniston has a knack for making practical purchases look aspirational. While plenty of celebrities chase the latest designer shoe trend, the actress built her style around pieces you can wear for hours, without ever thinking about them. That’s exactly why her latest favorite isn’t a luxury sandal at all, but a supportive flip-flop with all-day comfort.

According to the brand, Aniston swears by the Archies Arch Support Flip-Flops. The viral sandals have a cult following of fans looking for flip-flops with built-in support, and one of them includes Aniston; she reportedly owns them in three colors! At just $40, they’re the kind of summer staple that looks simple at first glance but offers a lot more than the average flip-flop.

Get the Archies Arch Support Flip-Flops for $40 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

The secret is in the footbed. Archies makes the sandals from specialized closed-cell foam with a contoured arch design to support your feet with every step. They’re lightweight, shock absorbing and comfortable right out of the box. And yes, that’s all without the bulky look that often comes with typical orthopedic footwear.

Shoppers say the comfort lives up to the hype. The sandals earned over 6,600 five-star ratings on Amazon, and reviewers frequently mention wearing them for long stretches of time without discomfort. One shopper called them “so comfy” after wearing them during a beach vacation that involved a “ton of walking.”

Another buyer said, “These flip-flops are really helping with my foot pain” and called them a “great fit.” The reviewer also described the sandals as “light but durable” and appreciated that “they don’t slide around; they stay on pretty snugly.”

A last customer called their Archies a “summer shoe staple,” adding that they’re “easy to throw on” and that they “go with everything.” Between the supportive design, secure fit and versatile styling, it’s easy to see why Aniston reportedly owns Archies flip-flops in multiple colors.

Available in sizes 5 through 16 for women, there’s an option for every person. Plus, the sandals come in a range of colors, including black, olive and red, as well as several easy-to-style neutrals. For $40, you get the supportive flip-flops Aniston keeps reaching for, and judging by the thousands of glowing reviews, there’s a good chance you’ll understand why after your first wear.

Get the Archies Arch Support Flip-Flops for $40 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

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

Brick by brick, Taylor Frankie Paul is making her television comeback!

The reality star, who has had a bit of a turbulent last few months due to personal controversies involving domestic violence allegations and restraining orders, may get her “The Bachelorette” season returned on air in a few weeks.

Taylor Frankie Paul’s season of the reality show was shelved back in March after a video of her hurling metal barstools at her ex, Dakota Mortensen, made rounds on social media.

According to reports, next month may finally be the perfect moment for ABC to bring Taylor’s season on air as talk has been going on behind the scenes with executives for a mid-July premiere.

While final plans are not locked in yet, editors working on the show reportedly never stopped cutting the episodes, which is a positive signal for its return.

Sources close to the show added that ABC has been conducting surveys among audiences to see how they currently perceive Taylor, as it has been months since the video leaked, and they had to cancel the season just days before the premiere.

The reality star’s other show, “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,” also got paused as a result of revelations about her toxic dynamics with Dakota.

On Taylor’s part, TMZ stated that she has made several social media posts sharing updates about her personal growth and healing since her season got yanked off, and it has reportedly caught the attention of network executives.

The Blast shared that despite the development with her season, the media personality is alleged to have received full compensation for being saddled with a canceled season, as she had met her contractual duties. 

Taylor had reportedly finished shooting and done promotional work for the new season before it was eventually canceled after renewed attention on past allegations of domestic violence between Taylor and his ex-partner, Dakota. 

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Insiders stated that the video of the assault was an extra factor that led to worries within ABC, which had already been familiar with her 2023 arrest and past legal problems. Taylor’s compensation is estimated to range in the six figures, following the footsteps of previous stars of the show.

Some of the contestants took to the web to post funny comments after hearing about the cancellation, as sources stated that Warner Bros. had reservations because of Taylor’s public history, but decided to press ahead.

Launching the season was reportedly important to the network as it was part of ABC’s plan to refresh and expand the franchise after its summer 2024 production dry spell.

Taylor Frankie Paul’s ‘The Bachelorette’ Cast Allegedly Weighed Lawsuit Against ABC And Warner Bros

In March, The Blast noted that several contestants from the canceled season considered exploring legal actions against the network and the production company.

They had reportedly expressed their displeasure about how they went about handling this, stating that better vetting could have saved everybody the stress.

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Some of the contestants detailed pausing major life plans, rejecting financial opportunities, and even quitting jobs in anticipation of the exposure and opportunities tied to appearing on the show.

The cast also felt that Warner Bros. Discovery put them in an awkward and uncomfortable situation while shooting, saying they were forced to work with Taylor for her controversial past. 

The cancellation reportedly caused financial problems for ABC and Warner Bros Discovery, running into millions, and upset the franchise plans.

Sources confirmed that ABC had assured contestants that their contracts would still be in effect for up to one year, and that opportunities would still exist within the franchise, including spin-offs.

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Inside The 32-Year-Old’s Domestic Violence Scandal

As shared by The Blast, Taylor found herself in a domestic violence controversy when a video of her throwing a metal chair at Dakota before grabbing him by the hair and around the neck went viral.

Dakota, in the clip, was heard describing the incident as domestic abuse, while admitting that it would not be the first time Taylor assaulted him.

Reports added that Taylor’s toddler was also affected during the confrontation in 2023, which ultimately led to her arrest. She was subsequently charged with one felony count of aggravated assault and two felony domestic violence charges with a child present. 

Following the cancellation of her “The Bachelorette” season, Taylor opened up her heart in a statement thanking ABC and Warner for their support.

At the same time, she continues to focus on the safety and well-being of her children. The reality star and her podcaster ex began dating in 2022 after the former divorced her ex-husband, Tate Paul.

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The relationship was defined with frequent breakups and makeups, alongside a pregnancy loss very early on in the three-year romance.

Taylor Frankie Paul’s Drama Tagged ‘Reality Gold’

The reality TV alum Bethenny Frankel did not hesitate to give her opinion on the dynamic between Taylor and Dakota when the video got leaked.

In the same breath, Frankel thumbed up ABC’s decision to strike out Taylor’s season, stating that it was careless of her and Dakota to involve their infant in their toxic cycle.

Frankel continued that while she could understand why some people remained in unhealthy relationships due to financial hardships or difficult circumstances, neither Taylor nor Dakota was in this situation. She praised ABC for its responsible decision despite the fact that it cost them millions of dollars in losses. 

The media personality continued that while the controversy in Taylor’s life could be reality gold elsewhere and seen as an opportunity to garner attention, ABC chose to platform empathy, which paid off in good reviews.

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