Entertainment
One of the Greatest Shows of the 20th Century Just Sparked an AI Controversy
The Muppet Show recently made its grand return in the form of a Disney+ special, and by all accounts, it was a major success. In addition to bringing back fan-favorite Muppets like Kermit the Frog and Fozzie Bear, The Muppet Show also featured incredible guest stars like Sabrina Carpenter and Seth Rogen; it also skyrocketed in ratings, proving the Muppets still hold a place in people’s hearts and in pop culture. However, this praise is marred by controversy over Disney’s decision to use generative AI in an image promoting The Muppet Show.
The Muppet-themed podcast Kermitment was the first to notice the use of generative AI in Disney+’s header for The Muppet Showand posted a lengthy thread on Twitter breaking down inconsistencies, including Miss Piggy appearing without gloves. For any Muppet fan, that would set off warning bells, since it’s a large part of her character, and soon fans took to the internet to voice their displeasure. Disney would eventually remove the image, but the damage was done, and it points to a concerning trend in Hollywood that’s only beginning to grow.
‘The Muppet Show’ Works Because of Its Practical Effects, Not AI
The biggest draw of The Muppet Show, beyond speculating which movie could work if you replaced the actors with Muppets, is the creative energy that goes into bringing the characters to life. The late, great Jim Henson used a combination of puppetry and practical effects that made each Muppet feel like a distinct character; that creativity even extended to the voices, since his performance as Kermit influenced future performers. Henson’s signature style was a major influence on The Muppet Show director Alex Timbers, who discussed how he used the same tricks as the original Muppet Show to bring his special to life with the Los Angeles Times.
“If you’re dealing with a Muppet to Muppet scene, everything has to be in 3/4 scale. If there’s a human in the scene with the Muppet, it’s a 7/8 scale. There are all these little tricks to make sure that a mug feels the right size for Kermit and for that desk to feel the right height…The math of it is really challenging, but also really rewarding.”
By using generative AI in its marketing for The Muppet Show, Disney is either deliberately or unconsciously downplaying the effort that went into bringing the special to life. Given that previous shows on ABC and Disney+ were short-lived, and the classic MuppetVision 3D attraction at Walt Disney World was recently shut down, it’s looking more and more like the House of Mouse has no idea how to use the Muppets. The AI controversy isn’t helping, but it might not be the only time you hear “Muppets” and “AI” in the same sentence.
Disney Embracing AI Goes Against The Muppets’ Creative Vision
Disney recently made waves when it announced a $1 billion deal with OpenAI, allowing users to use OpenAI’s Sora platform to generate images of its characters. The idea of Kermit and friends being shoved through an AI generator feels unsettling, but that’s the least of Muppet fans’ worries. In an interview with Variety, Disney board chairman James Gorman revealed that newly minted chief creative officer Dana Walden plans to incorporate AI into future movies and TV. Combined with the revelation that newly hired CEO Josh D’Amaro also intends to push AI, it feels like Disney is going in the opposite direction from what makes the Muppets special. You can’t replicate the magical mix of puppetry and effects with AI, no matter how Silicon Valley might sell it.
The Muppet Show thrived for 50 years because of the hard work behind the scenes, and the only way it can continue thriving is for that work to continue. Instead of spending money on AI, Disney should market The Muppet Show as aggressively as possible.
- Release Date
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February 4, 2026
- Director
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Alex Timbers
- Writers
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Albertina Rizzo, Kelly Younger, Jim Henson
- Producers
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Matt Vogel, Seth Rogen, Alex McAtee, Eric Jacobson, Evan Goldberg, James Weaver, Sabrina Carpenter, Michael Steinbach, David Lightbody
Entertainment
Valerie Bertinelli Opens Up About Botox and Implant Rupture
Valerie Bertinelli got candid about the work she had done to enhance her appearance..
Bertinelli, 65, opened up about getting a breast augmentation and experimenting with Botox in her new book, Getting Naked: The Quiet Work of Becoming Perfectly Imperfect, which was released on Tuesday, March 10.
In 2019, she “tried Botox” for the first time, but immediately knew it wasn’t for her. “I didn’t like it and had a mini freak-out when I saw it changed the shape of my eyebrows, which changed the shape of my face, which was a shock because my face is the way I recognize myself,” the actress recalled. “I didn’t like what I saw. I didn’t want to see a puffy, distorted version of me in the mirror. I didn’t want to wake up and say, ‘Knock knock, is Val there?’”
Bertinelli went on to say that she “didn’t want to look [her age]” and tried out “fillers and Botox” in her 50s. “I was doing battle against puffy eyes, jowls, saggy skin — basically looking my age.” She noted that she wanted to look “younger” and “not so tired” but wasn’t sure what “age [she] wanted to look.”
“Don’t get me wrong. I am not against plastic surgery or Botox and fillers,” she added. “Some people look amazing when it works. They feel much better about themselves after a procedure. I get it — and I’ve been there.”
When it comes to going under the knife, Bertinelli opened up about having a “complicated relationship” with her breasts. “Mine were mocked relentlessly. They were called ‘little quarters,’ ‘itty-bitty titties,’ and ‘tiny boobies,” she shared. “I took it all to heart. Instead of appreciating the changes my body was going through, I dreaded them. I had no idea what I was supposed to look like; I only knew it was wrong.”
Bertinelli then got breast implants, but never wanted to “put them on display.” She shared candid details about her “old implants,” which she described as “ostrich eggs, hard and crusted over.” If a breast implant ruptures, it can cause pain, hardening of the implants and lumps.

“I couldn’t believe they had been in my body,” she wrote. “I went home bandaged and sore, with drains under my arms, uncomfortable but hopeful. For the first two weeks, everything was great. About a week later, my right breast took on shades of green, yellow, and blue. The next day it started to swell and turned a dark purple. I felt myself getting dizzy. By nighttime, I was running a fever.”
She shared that her “right breast” needed “six months to heal? the infection” and “grow back the missing tissue.” Months later, Bertinelli got a third surgery to install “another small implant under the muscle” to restore “what was left of [her] nipple.” Bertinelli shared that it took a year for her “boobs [to take] shape.”
“They are now two completely different sizes; the implant on the left is over the muscle, and my right side is sad and misshapen,” she explained. “Eventually I will have a fourth operation that will, I am assured, even things out once and for all.”
Entertainment
Assault Case Against Patriots’ Christian Barmore Dismissed
UPDATE — 3/10/26, 9:59 a.m. ET: The domestic assault case against New England Patriots star Christian Barmore has been dismissed.
The case was deemed “not viable for prosecution,” Bristol County District Attorney Thomas Quinn said during a hearing on Monday, March 9.
“It was a delayed complaint and the victim had mixed emotions about whether she wanted to go forward,” Quinn told reporters outside the courthouse.
Quinn added that the alleged victim now permanently lives out of state and was unwilling to return to Massachusetts in order to testify.
“I‘m looking at the case as I would in any situation,” Quinn said about the decision to dismiss the charges. “He obviously may have more to lose than other people, given his position, but that has nothing to do in terms of viewing the merits of the case.”
Original story below:
New England Patriots star Christian Barmore will not have to face charges of domestic assault until after his team plays in the Super Bowl.
Barmore’s arraignment date has been moved to March 9, court records show. The NFL player’s attorney requested the delay on Friday, January 23, according to The Boston Globe.
The defensive tackle was originally due to appear for an arraignment on February 3, five days before the Patriots play the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl 60 on Sunday, February 8.
Barmore, 26, was charged with one count of assault and battery on a family/household member, according to court documents obtained by Us Weekly last month.
The alleged assault happened in August 2025, when Barmore allegedly got into an argument with the mother of his 2-year-old daughter at Barmore’s Mansfield, Massachusetts home.
The woman claimed Barmore “threw her to the floor” during the disagreement, and then allegedly “grabbed her by the shirt in the area of her neck” when she attempted to get up.
As she was attempting to leave Barmore’s home, the woman claimed Barmore “rushed at her but didn’t make any contact.”
“[She] said her daughter tried to jump into her arms when this happened and believed that is the only reason [Barmore] didn’t touch her,” the court documents said.
After news broke of the allegations against Barmore, his attorney issued a statement denying the charges.
“We are confident that the evidence will demonstrate that no criminal conduct took place,” attorney David Meier said. “Based on the facts and the law, we expect that this personal matter will be resolved in the near future and both parties will move forward together.”
The Patriots organization also issued a statement about Barmore, saying they “were made aware at the time of the incident and informed the NFL in a timely manner.”
“The matter remains part of an ongoing legal process,” the statement continued. “We will respect that process, continue to monitor the situation closely, as we have over the past few months, and cooperate fully with the league. We will have no further comment at this time.”
Barmore’s case has similarities to the allegations made against Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs, who is facing a felony charge of strangulation and a misdemeanor charge of assault from an alleged incident at his home on December 2.
Diggs, 32, allegedly strangled his private chef over a dispute about her finances.
He was originally set to be arraigned on January 23 — two days before the Patriots played the Denver Broncos in the AFC Championship game — but the court date was later moved to February 13, five days after the Super Bowl.
Diggs has denied the charges against him and received the backing of the Patriots organization.
“We support Stefon,” the team said in the statement. “We will continue to gather information and will cooperate fully with the appropriate authorities and the NFL as necessary. Out of respect for all parties involved, and given that this is an ongoing legal matter, we will have no further comment at this time.”
Entertainment
The Neo Noir Classic On Netflix That’s Perfect For Buffy The Vampire Slayer Fans
By Chris Snellgrove
| Published

One of the reasons that fans are so excited about the upcoming Buffy the Vampire Slayer reboot is that the original show was unlike anything else they had ever seen on television. It prominently featured a woman in a male-dominated genre (namely, demon slaying), and it did so through a killer combination of quippy comedy and heartpounding melodrama. Fans can’t help but be excited for the reboot because they are collectively asking the same question: “where else can I see something so well-written and innovative?”
As it turns out, you can see it on Netflix: the streamer is now showing Veronica Mars (2004), a noir detective show with a spunky female protagonist just as funny as everyone’s favorite Slayer. It remains one of the most highly-rated shows in television history, one that influenced countless other series while launching the career of Kristen Bell. If you’re ready to discover your new binge-worthy favorite while waiting for the Buffy reboot, then it’s past time you stream Veronica Mars on Netflix.
A Show That You Can’t Stop Watching

The premise of Veronica Mars is that the titular character is the daughter of a detective, and she solves mysteries of her own in the quirky town of Neptune, California. While she solves smaller cases (especially in Season 3), the show is mostly known for season-long mysteries, and part of the charm of watching is putting the clues together at the same time our plucky protagonist is doing so. Even if you don’t enjoy mystery shows all that much, Veronica Mars is perfectly entertaining because its tight scripts are filled with hilariously cynical comedy punctuated by moments of poignant, character-driven reflection.
The cast of Veronica Mars includes some amazing character actors, including Jason Dohring (best known outside this show for Deep Impact) as Veronica’s bad-boy boyfriend. Percy Daggs III (best known outside of this show for The New Adventures of Peter and Wendy) plays Veronica’s best friend and mystery-solving partner, while Enrico Colantoni (best known for Galaxy Quest) plays her father, a professional private investigator. Meanwhile, Francis Capra (best known for A Bronx Tale) plays a biker gang leader with a heart of gold.
The Bell Of The Ball

Everyone involved gives excellent performances, but nobody does it better than Kristen Bell, who instantly transforms Veronica Mars into one of television’s best characters. Veronica’s constantly a study in contradictions: her dainty beauty hides a tough-as-nails personality, just as her cynical humor hides a borderline manic urge to do the right thing. She’s fierce, funny, and fearless, serving as a worthy inheritor to the tough girl crown once worn so capably by Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
When Veronica Mars premiered, it was nothing short of a television sensation: showrunner Rob Thomas gambled that audiences would love a neo noir show from a female point of view, and he was completely right. The first season of the series was hailed as a critically-acclaimed masterpiece, and the show was nominated for prestigious awards, including four Saturn Awards. Following the show’s untimely cancellation after Season 3, sheer fan demand and a successful Kickstarter campaign helped it get a satisfying follow-up film, and a final fourth season would later air on Hulu.
Comedy That Leaves You Grinning

Veronica Mars put a new spin on an old genre, and reviewers longing for something new ate it up with a spoon. On Rotten Tomatoes, the show has a 92 percent rating, with critics praising the show for the whip-smart writing and amazing characterization that make this genre show a spiritual sequel to Buffy the Vampire Slayer. They also singled out Kristen Bell, commending her for a career-making performance that showcased a full range of her prodigious talents as both a comedic and dramatic actor.
The critics were certainly right to single out Bell: she gives a singular performance here that helped launch one of the most rewardingly eclectic careers in Hollywood. If not for her success in Veronica Mars, she would likely never have starred as the titular character in the raunchy classic Forgetting Sarah Marshall, nor would she have headlined The Good Place, the tightest-written TV comedy since Community. Of course, it helped that Bell was so great right out of the gate: she was in her early ‘20s when the show started, but that didn’t keep her from acting circles around colleagues much older than her.
The high quality of Veronica Mars’ writing and acting helps elevate material that would otherwise have made far less of a cultural impact. Personally, I’m not a huge fan of neo noir, and the streaming era has taught me to really hate season-long mystery arcs. But this show makes both its noir theming and mysteries compelling through breezy humor and constant characterization, both of which will leave you watching episodes long after you should have gone to bed.
Time To Grab The Remote

Overall, Veronica Mars is sublime, offering rewarding stories that often transcend the medium itself. The mysteries in this show are worthy of great literature (eat your heart out, Raymond Chandler), and the characters are straight out of a high-end Broadway play. Finally, the epic scope of the season-long stories is just as compelling as any film, and mystery lovers should take note that Veronica Mars is head and shoulders better than the latest Knives Out movie.
Are you ready to embrace your inner gumshoe and dive into your new favorite show, or will you think it’s a mystery why everyone loves Veronica Mars? The only way to find out is to head home (wave down a friendly biker if you need a ride!) and stream this show on Netflix. Come for the killer theme song and stay for one of the most innovative new characters of the 21st century.

Entertainment
Dwight Howard To Divorce Amy Luciani, She & Royce Reed React
After Amy Luciani put his personal business on the ‘net, Dwight Howard reportedly filed for divorce. After the news broke, Amy—real name Amber Rose Howard—stepped into The Shade Room to continue calling out her estranged husband. Meanwhile, Royce Reed has seemingly weighed in on the divorce news after also popping off this weekend.
RELATED: Dwight Howard Attends NBA Game As His & Royce Reed’s Son Braylon Weighs In On Amy Luciani’s Allegations (VIDEOS)
Dwight Howard Files For Divorce And Mutual Restraining Order
According to TMZ, Dwight Howard was at the courthouse early Monday (March 9) morning seeking to end his marriage after almost 14 months. He listed their marriage date as January 11, 2025. Additionally, the docs reportedly claim their union is “irretrievably broken” with no hope of reconciliation. He distinctly noted that they share no children and therefore wants exclusive use of his Georgia mega-home and his “separate/non-marital” property. Complex adds that Amy and Dwight Howard are “living in a bona fide state of separation.”
Moreover, per Complex, the couple filed for a mutual restraining order. Both sides are banned from harming each other or the children in their lives. They’re also not supposed to sell any property except concerning “ordinary business,” cancel each other’s insurance or disconnect any home utilities.
This is the second time the couple’s marriage has faced the end, but the first time Dwight filed the paperwork. Last year, The Shade Room exclusively confirmed that Amy Luciani initiated a divorce on July 1, 2025. At the time, she claimed the marriage was irretrievably broken and had no hopes of reconciliation. Mrs. Howard also later clarified that she wasn’t after Dwight’s money or assets. A month after filing, she dismissed the divorce case.
Amy Luciani Brings Up CPS Case In Response To Divorce
As previously reported, Amy Luciani posted emotional videos this past weekend about Dwight Howard’s alleged cocaine use and CPS case. In one clip, she showed a clear bag and silver vial allegedly filled with the drug. Other videos show her speaking to Dwight’s 12-year-old son, David. She appeared to confirm that his father convinced him to lie to Child Protective Services (CPS) in a situation involving one of Dwight’s daughters, Layla. The specifics of the case remain unknown, but in her now-deleted Instagram post, Amy Luciani claimed CPS had been to their home three times in two months because of Dwight.
On Monday, Mrs. Howard stepped into The Shade Room’s comment section to react to a post about Dwight filing for divorce. She continued to reference the CPS case described above and accused her husband of racing to file first.
“Racing me to file first this time is small news when I filed first last year … all good, but still not going to visit my step daughter one single time who was taken & has been with the state since Thursday is more hurtful to me. . Us adults will be ok, but the kids need better. This too shall pass,” Amy wrote.
Is Royce Reed Basking In The Divorce News?
Royce Reed, the mother of Dwight’s eldest son Braylon, also entered the chat on Monday following the divorce reveal. Reed has been a longtime critic of her ex-boyfriend, calling him out for everything from allegedly ruining her career to abuse. This past weekend, she had social media chatting when she seemed to tease Amy Luciani’s allegations with “I told you so” energy. Even Braylon eventually jumped in, backing his mother and hoping Dwight Howard gets “help.”
On Monday, Royce Reed circled to her IG Story and shared a meme of a man yelling with the words “Throw the damn towel.” She added, “Yikes!” in large white text and a GIF of a woman in sunglasses blasting finger guns.
Later on her IGS, she reshared a July 2025 video of her firing off fireworks. She wrote, “Them: ok Royce, you’re dragging it now… Me: Like a tractor Trailer!” A few hours later, she posted, “Okay, I’m done” on the same platform. An hour after that, she posted, “I’m unblocked y’all.” For context, over the weekend, she seemingly suggested Amy Luciani had her blocked on IG.
Royce Reed Chats With Carlos King About Amy & Dwight Howard (UPDATE)
Most recently, Royce Reed also answered questions on video with Carlos King. She claimed to be close friends with Layla’s mom and said the mom is trying to get her daughter out. Also, Reed accused Dwight of using his wealth and connections to keep moments like police body cam footage from surfacing. Reed also accused Amy Luciani of only blasting Dwight Howard because he “turned on her.” Additionally, she said Amy had no intentions of leaving the marriage until that happened. In the comment section of King’s post, Reed also went off about why she’s speaking out.
“IDGAF what anyone has to say! When kids are involved I’m dragging it to hell! IDC who gets mad! Let it be YOUR CHILD! I got mine OUT but not before he was damaged! I kicked, screamed and hollered and even to this day some of you STILL call me bitter. Well guess what, maybe I am. Why? Bcuz for 18+ years I’ve dealt with his shit and the past 1 she’s advocated for him! Be her friend? After she drug me? Maybe if her apology is a loud as her disrespect! She allowed it to happen! She participated in the abuse. Imma advocate for LAYLA AND DAVID! The kids! Always and idgaf who mad. Not my story to tell? IT IS MY STORY! It’s all of our story! Defending her or him in this situation is clown behavior! Might as well be sharing toothbrushes with them too,” Royce Reed wrote.
RELATED: Whew! Fans Dig Into Kristy And Desmond Scott’s Old Social Media Content For Divorce Clues (WATCH)
What Do You Think Roomies?
Entertainment
Ashanti Turns Heads With Turnt-Up Performance (WATCH)
Roomies, Ashanti has turned heads with her turnt-up energy during a recent performance.
RELATED: Come Thru! Ashanti Pens Loving Message For Nelly While Sharing Stunning Photos From Her 45th Birthday Celebration
More On The Singer’s Turnt-Up Energy & Recent Performance
Over the weekend, Ashanti appeared and performed at the Jazz in the Garden Music Fest 2026 in Miami Gardens. In footage captured by Instagram users @supacindy and @nikkimontana, Ashanti could be seen performing alongside Machel Montana. Furthermore, the pair were performing their hit soca single, ‘The Road,’ and as the vibes hit the crowd, Ashanti turned things up a notch by putting her hips to work and hitting a quick wine.
Peep the clip below.
Ashanti Turns Heads
Social media users reacted to the clip of Ashanti’s performance in TSR’s comment section.
Instagram user @bebe__kitchen5 wrote, “Natural body, happy life, and well fed. Truly a blessing.”
While Instagram user @radionia.22 added, “Thickaaa than a snicker 😍😍”
Instagram user @dominiquechinn wrote, “Ashanti was having fun and having the time of her life on stage. She looks like she’s enjoying every moment 🤗”
While Instagram user @mznici added, “That NATURAL BODY AND BEAUTY IS TOP TIER!!!! Cornell and KK got Cousin out here 🗣️DRAGGIN A WAGON for sure!!! 💥💥💥🫡”
Instagram user @hellobriarrose wrote, “She’s sooooo unproblematic, always smiling and just good energy!!!!!”
While Instagram user @natasha_nubian added, “I love how Ashanti spun the block, had a baby by a man she loves, is being loved on and giving love back & still touring with those same songs that we all know and love 😍🥳”
Instagram user @crownedbydenise wrote, “She’s dance like the era she’s from I love it ❤️”
While Instagram user @sabrinahutton added, “Let’s go, pookie @ashanti. Throw that thing 🔥🔥…”
Instagram user @msmesagirl wrote, “Ashanti is living her best life! She’s got the man of her dreams, a beautiful son, she’s getting that bag 💰 and her husband is getting that bag 💰 too! Life dont get no better than that!”
While Instagram user @originalrebel_ added, “Yes Ashanti!!! Buss wine!! 🇹🇹🇹🇹”
Before The Performance, Ashanti Spoke About Her Prayers For Her Family
Before the singer turned heads with her performance alongside Machel Montano, she gave fans a glimpse into her personal life, sharing her prayers and gratitude for her family.
RELATED: So In Love! Ashanti & Nelly Bring The Romance To The Stage With ‘Body On Me’ Performance (VIDEO)
What Do You Think Roomies?
Entertainment
Will there be a “War Machine ”sequel? Here's what the director has teased (and what Alan Ritchson thinks)
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Co-writer and director Patrick Hughes has expressed interest in continuing the story.
Entertainment
Even Rebecca Ferguson’s 2026 Sci-Fi Misfire Made More Than Christian Bale’s New ‘Frankenstein’ Remake
Director Maggie Gyllenhaal‘s sophomore feature, The Bride!, fell into a bottomless pit in its first weekend at the worldwide box office. The movie serves as a fairly standard studio-system stepping stone for Gyllenhaal, who broke out as a feature filmmaker with Netflix’s acclaimed The Lost Daughter after a successful career in front of the camera. However, unlike that drama, her new movie opened to highly divisive reviews. The Bride! reunites Gyllenhaal with star Jessie Buckley, who is a frontrunner at the upcoming Oscars for her performance in Chloé Zhao‘s Hamnet, which will likely end up with a higher worldwide box office haul when the dust settles. Buckley was joined by Christian Bale, for whom The Bride! is the second major theatrical disappointment in a row.
Bale previously starred in David O. Russell‘s period comedy Amsterdam, alongside a stacked cast including Margot Robbie and John David Washington. That movie ended its global run with around $31 million against a reported budget of $80 million. The Bride! cost between $80 million and $90 million too, and has been compared by critics to fellow Warner Bros. dud Joker: Folie à Deux. That sequel stunned the industry when it crashed and burned at the box office and earned a dreadful D CinemaScore from opening day audiences. It eventually grossed just over $200 million worldwide against a reported budget of $200 million. By comparison, the first Joker emerged as an unexpected blockbuster, grossing more than $1 billion worldwide against a reported budget of $60 million. The Bride! appears to have been green-lit following Joker‘s success, considering its themes of alienation, abuse, and retribution.
Hopping Down the Aisle — The Collider Movie Quiz!
Something bold, something new, something animated, something for you? A quiz about two films hitting theaters tomorrow: The Bride! and Hoppers.
Here’s How Much ‘The Bride!’ Grossed in Its Global Box Office Debut
But despite a star-studded cast including Penélope Cruz, Peter Sarsgaard, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Annette Bening, the movie could only manage to gross $7 million domestically and another $6 million from overseas markets in its first weekend. The film’s cumulative worldwide box office haul stands at just $13 million, which is significantly lower than the recent film Mercy‘s disappointing debut. Starring Rebecca Ferguson and Chris Pratt, the sci-fi mystery film tanked at the box office and was ultimately unable to recoup its reported $60 million budget. However, it received far worse reviews than The Bride!, which currently holds a 59% score on Rotten Tomatoes. The aggregator’s consensus reads, “Concocted with all the restraint of a mad scientist’s experiment, THE BRIDE! lurches in so many different creative directions that the overall effect is both sloppy and inspired.” You can watch The Bride! in theaters. Stay tuned to Collider for more updates.
- Release Date
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March 6, 2026
- Runtime
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126 Minutes
- Producers
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Emma Tillinger Koskoff, Osnat Handelsman-Keren, Talia Kleinhendler, Maggie Gyllenhaal
Entertainment
Why Netflix Quietly Walked Away From Meghan Markle’s Brand
Meghan Markle’s lifestyle venture As Ever was meant to signal a new chapter in her business ambitions.
However, behind the scenes, tensions reportedly grew between the Duchess of Sussex and Netflix before the partnership quietly unraveled.
Insiders now claim the collaboration struggled to gain traction, raising questions about why the streaming giant ultimately stepped away.
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Meghan Markle’s As Ever Brand Reportedly Failed To Win Over Netflix

Reports suggest Netflix executives had reservations about Meghan Markle’s lifestyle brand long before the partnership came to an end.
According to a Los Angeles insider who spoke to the Daily Mail, the company struggled to see how the brand aligned with its broader entertainment empire.
The source claimed the product line, which includes jams, flower sprinkles, wine, and candles, simply did not resonate with the platform’s audience.
“Netflix were not happy,” the insider reportedly said.
The source further explained that executives had initially explored the idea of featuring As Ever products in the company’s physical Netflix House retail locations planned for Philadelphia and Dallas.
However, those plans never moved forward.
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“They were not happy with the fact that no one really cared about the brand – so when they were looking to create As Ever areas in Netflix House there was no appetite for it,” the insider claimed.
The same source added that the concept did not align with the streaming giant’s most recognizable entertainment franchises.
“It just didn’t fit with Squid Game or Stranger Things or Bridgerton like they had hoped,” they said.
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Meghan Decides To Take Full Control Of Her Lifestyle Venture

Despite the reported concerns, Meghan Markle has chosen to move forward with As Ever independently.
Sources close to the duchess say she believed Netflix’s approach to the brand was too cautious and that she wanted the freedom to expand it on her own terms.
By stepping away from the partnership, Meghan reportedly hopes the lifestyle label can reach a wider audience globally.
The decision comes shortly after significant changes to her and Prince Harry’s broader relationship with the streaming service.
Their once highly publicized $100 million agreement with Netflix has since been restructured into a “first look” deal.
Meanwhile, Meghan’s lifestyle brand was always envisioned as an online-first business, according to people close to the duchess.
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Earlier reports indicated the products were intended to be sold primarily through the official As Ever website rather than in physical retail spaces.
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Critics Question The Future Of Meghan Markle’s Brand Deals

Not everyone is convinced that the split will work in Meghan’s favor.
Branding expert Eric Schiffer, chairman of Reputation Management Consultants, suggested the separation from Netflix could have wider implications for her business ambitions.
Speaking to Page Six, he said, “Losing Netflix on As Ever is a brutal backlash because the halo just got ripped off, and what’s left looks like another failed Montecito money grab.”
He also raised concerns about how potential partners might interpret the situation.
“The pattern starts looking like lethally unwise brand management. For Meghan, losing Netflix is the kiss of death to the pitch that prestige partners still see unlimited upside,” he said.
While those comments reflect the skepticism surrounding the brand’s future, supporters of the duchess maintain that the project still has significant potential.
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How Meghan Markle’s Netflix Projects Played Into The Split

The partnership between Netflix and Meghan’s lifestyle brand originally grew out of her television projects with the streaming service.
Last year, Netflix commissioned a new season of her series “With Love, Meghan,” and the platform also took a stake in the As Ever brand as part of the collaboration.
However, the arrangement faced challenges as the show struggled to gain strong critical or audience momentum.
Critics were particularly harsh about the program’s holiday special, which drew attention for what some reviewers described as an out-of-touch tone.
The series ultimately ran for two seasons before Netflix chose not to continue it, a decision that came shortly before the As Ever partnership ended.
Despite those developments, Meghan is still said to maintain a cordial relationship with Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos.
Other projects linked to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have also progressed slowly. The animated concept “Cookie Queens” has not been picked up by the platform, and the film adaptation of the novel “Meet Me at the Lake” has remained in development for more than two years after it was first announced.
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Netflix And As Ever Address The End Of Their Partnership

Both sides have publicly framed the separation as a natural evolution rather than a conflict.
In a statement, a spokesperson for As Ever acknowledged the company’s early collaboration with the streaming platform.
They said, “As Ever is grateful for Netflix’s partnership through launch and our first year.”
The spokesperson added that the brand believes it is now ready to move forward independently, noting, “We have experienced meaningful and rapid growth, and As Ever is now ready to stand on its own.”
They also hinted that the lifestyle venture still has big plans ahead, stating, “We have an exciting year ahead and can’t wait to share more.”
Netflix offered a similarly positive message about the collaboration. A spokesperson said the duchess’s ideas were instrumental in shaping the project.
“Meghan’s passion for elevating everyday moments in beautiful yet simple ways inspired the creation of the As Ever brand, and we are glad to have played a role in bringing that vision to life,” they said.
The company also confirmed that Meghan would now guide the brand’s next phase on her own.
They said, “As it was always intended, Meghan will continue growing the brand and take it into its next chapter independently, and we look forward to celebrating how she continues to bring joy to households around the world.”
Entertainment
12YO Girl Dies Following After-School Fight With Student
An after-school fight in Georgia resulted in the death of a 12-year-old girl. Now, her mother is speaking out, telling the media that their daughter Jada West was the victim of bullying as a new student at Mason Creek Middle School.
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Viral Video Shows Jada West And A Girl Fighting In A Georgia Neighborhood
According to PEOPLE, the physical fight involving Jada West happened on March 5. She got into an argument on the school bus on the way home, per Fox 5 Atlanta. A 2-minute video circulating on social media shows Jada and another unidentified minor girl exchanging words in a neighborhood. The school bus is visible in the background. For context, Jada is the child wearing a tee, white cardigan, black pants and white sneakers. She’s heard saying, “I don’t know why y’all getting off the bus. If that b*tch put her hands on me, imma beat her f**king a**.” That same clip cuts to footage of West lying in a hospital bed. Then, it shows Jada saying she refuses to fight “over some noise.”
Another girl shouts back at her, and West screams, “I don’t even know you and I don’t know your name.” A few seconds later, the girl and Jada West step to the center of a circle of minors, continuing to cuss and threaten each other. After asking each other, “Do you need that?” the girls start throwing punches. Even after falling to the ground, the girls continued to strike each other until others separated them.
Reports:
“Jada West a 12 year old girl from Mason Creek Middle School in Douglas County, Georgia—tragically passed away after a school dispute escalated into a physical altercation & Fight at a bus stop.”#Fights #Fightvideos #schoolFights pic.twitter.com/tDULGzmlyn
— Just Lookin 🪙🦩 (@JustLookingMon) March 9, 2026
What Caused Jada West’s Passing?
Amid the chaos, one of Jada West’s friends ran home to get her mother after it appeared the 12-year-old began losing consciousness. The mom, Rashunda McLendon, told WSB-TV that she got in her car and drove up to the scene of the fight. When she arrived, her daughter was on the ground and “wasn’t breathing,” she said. Jada West was then taken to the hospital.
Her aunt, Dequala McLendon, said Jada began seizing when they arrived at Tanner Medical Center. She was later transferred to the Children’s Hospital Scottish Rite. The 12-year-old reportedly died on Sunday (March 8) after being in a coma. Fox 5 reports that the family is awaiting autopsy results. Meanwhile, WSB-TV has cited her cause of death as cardiac heart failure.
Jada’s Mother Says Daughter Was A Victim Of Bullying
As mentioned, West was reportedly a new student at Mason Creek Middle School. This was her first semester there after transferring in January. She allegedly dealt with bullying from the start, per her family. Her mom, Rashunda McLendon, told Fox 5 Atlanta she feels angry and confused.
“We have to teach our children. I’m angry. What happened to the love? We lost our love, people. Teach your children to love,” the mom said.
Jada West’s family also told the outlet that they’re confused by the other girl’s presence on the school bus. The other girl involved allegedly doesn’t live in the same neighborhood as Jada did or get off at the same stop.
School District Releases Statement, Local Police Confirm Investigation
On Monday (March 9), the Douglas County School System, which oversees Mason Creek Middle Schoo, released a statement. It extended “heartfelt condolences and prayers” to Jada West’s family. Additionally, it said that student and staff safety is “of primary importance to [the] school system.” The district planned to have counselors available for the students and staff on Tuesday (March 10).
“Any situation that results in harm to a child is one we take with the highest level of urgency. This incident did not occur on school property or during school hours, and there is nothing to indicate that this is related to any on-campus activity. Therefore, this matter is under the jurisdiction of the Villa Rica Police Department. To protect the privacy of the student and her family, we are not able to share additional details at this time,” the school district statement said.
Villa Rica is the Georgia city where the after-school fight occurred. Local police is reportedly investigating the incident and reviewing footage along with the Douglas County District Attorney’s Office. No arrests or charges have been announced.
RELATED: Prayers Up! Georgia High School Teacher Tragically Dies After Harmless Senior Prank Goes Wrong (VIDEO)
What Do You Think Roomies?
Entertainment
Demi Lovato, Benson Boone, and More Stars Turn Up at Taco Bell’s Live Más Live Event at The Palladium in L.A.
Let’s taco ’bout it! Demi Lovato, Benson Boone, Rachel Bilson, Doja Cat, Jason Sudeikis, and more celebs stepped out for Taco Bell’s Live Más Live event at The Palladium in Los Angeles, California.
The star-studded bash brought fans, foodies, and A-listers together for a night packed with surprises, laughs, and major menu reveals.
Vince Staples hosted the festivities, guiding the crowd through an evening of games, performances, and first looks at what the chain restaurant has coming next.
Celebrities got in on the action, with Lil Jon and Ashley Park participating in the Made or Made Up game, where they were challenged to guess whether Taco Bell creations were real or fictional menu items.
Meanwhile, Anderson .Paak conducted a special choir inspired by commentary, turning Taco Bell lovers’ social media posts into a musical moment.
Ariana Madix kept the energy going by hosting the Live Más Live Cam, capturing stars throughout the venue, while Nikki and Brie Bella joined Lovato to present awards to the food destination’s most dedicated devotees.
Of course, the party wouldn’t be complete without plenty of delicious bites. Taco Bell unveiled more than 20 food innovations, including Flamin’ Hot® Nacho Fries, Doritos® Cool Ranch® Dusted Crispy Chicken Nuggets with Doritos® Cool Ranch® dipping sauce, Mexican Pizza Empanadas and Mountain Dew Baja Midnight™, among others.
Boone even took the stage to debut the Crème Brûlée Crunchwrap Slider, celebrating the reveal with his signature backflip.
Still hungry for mire? Fans can catch Live Más Live: A Night at The Palladium streaming on Peacock, and unlock exclusive offers through the Taco Bell Rewards App.
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