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Entertainment

Only 5 Video Games From the 2020s Can Be Considered True Masterpieces

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Zagreus in the underworld in Hades

The video game industry is booming. In fact, it might be at the peak of its influence, reaching more gamers than ever before and becoming a truly global enterprise. Moreover, after years of failed attempts, video games are finally starting to break through into other mediums, with movie and TV adaptations scoring with audiences and critics. Whether it’s the crowd-pleasing adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog or the acclaimed, Emmy-winning dread of The Last of Us, video game adaptations are finally thriving.

As for the efforts within the industry itself, those are also in a great place. Indeed, the 2020s have been extremely good for video games, producing many that range from solid to good to actually great. However, only a few are among the all-time best triumphs of the medium. In fact, only the five video games on this list can be called genuine masterpieces. Thanks to their visuals, gameplay, story, and influence, these five all-timers are worthy of standing next to the medium’s greatest icons, and their reputation will only keep improving with the years.

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‘Hades’ (2020)

Zagreus in the underworld in Hades Image via Supergiant Games

2020 kicked off a new decade of gaming on a high note, with great efforts like the Pandemic-favorite Animal Crossing: New Horizons, the long-awaited Final Fantasy VII Remake, and the wildly divisive The Last of Us Part II. However, the undeniable game of the year, and the one that’s arguably aged the best, is Hades, a creative spin on the Greek myths we all know and love. The plot centers on Zagreus, the son of the Lord of the Underworld, Hades. Aided by the Olympians, Zagreus attempts to locate his missing mother, Persephone, and reach Mount Olympus.

By every metric that counts, Hades is a unique game. Visually, the game has a distinct approach to the medium, looking more like a comic book (particularly Mike Mignola‘s iconic works) than a traditional video game. The use of color is particularly striking, making every environment look absorbing and rich in detail. The characters, too, jump to life, perfectly adapting the classical Greek aesthetic under a moder modern approach. Similarly, the story not so much updates as it reinterprets the Greek myths, resulting in a game that feels like a proper legendary quest. Hades is also the pinnacle of roguelike gameplay, which has made it a favorite of speedrunners the world over.













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Collider Exclusive · Middle-earth Quiz
Which Lord of the Rings
Character Are You?

One Quiz · Ten Questions · Your Fate Revealed
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The road goes ever on. From the green hills of the Shire to the fires of Mount Doom, every soul in Middle-earth carries a destiny. Ten questions stand between you and the truth of who you are. Answer honestly — the One Ring has a way of revealing what we most want to hide.

💍Frodo

🌿Samwise

👑Aragorn

🔥Gandalf

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🏹Legolas

⚒️Gimli

👁️Sauron

🪨Gollum

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01

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You are handed a responsibility that could destroy you. What do you do?
The weight of the world falls on unlikely shoulders.




02

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Your closest companion is heading into terrible danger. You:
True loyalty is revealed not in comfort, but in crisis.




03

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Enormous power is within your reach. Your instinct is:
Power corrupts — but only those who reach for it.




04

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What does “home” mean to you?
Where we long to return reveals who we truly are.




05

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When a battle is upon you, your approach is:
War reveals what we are made of — whether we like it or not.




06

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Someone comes to you for advice in their darkest hour. You:
Wisdom is not knowing all the answers — it’s knowing which questions to ask.




07

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How do you see yourself, honestly?
Self-knowledge is the most dangerous kind.




08

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Which of these best describes your relationship with the natural world?
Middle-earth speaks to those who know how to listen.




09

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You encounter a wretched, pitiable creature who has done terrible things. You:
How we treat the fallen reveals the height of our character.




10

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When the quest is over and the songs are sung, what do you hope they say about you?
In the end, we are all just stories.




The Fellowship Has Spoken
Your Place in Middle-earth
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The scores below reveal your true character. Your highest number is your match. Even a tie tells a story — the Fellowship was never made of simple people.

💍
Frodo

🌿
Samwise

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👑
Aragorn

🔥
Gandalf

🏹
Legolas

⚒️
Gimli

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👁️
Sauron

🪨
Gollum

You carry something heavy — and you carry it alone, even when you don’t have to. You were not born for greatness, and that is precisely why greatness chose you. Your courage is not the roaring, sword-swinging kind; it is quiet, stubborn, and terrifying in its refusal to quit. The Ring weighs on you more than anyone can see, and still you walk toward the fire. That is not weakness. That is the rarest kind of strength there is.

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You are, without question, the best of them. Not the most powerful, not the most celebrated — but the most essential. Your loyalty is not a trait; it is a force of nature. You would carry the person you love up the slopes of Mount Doom if it came to that, and we both know you’d do it without being asked. The world needs more people like you, and the world is lucky it has even one.

You were born to lead, and you have spent years running from it. The crown is yours by right, but you know better than anyone that right means nothing without the will and the worthiness to back it up. You are tempered by loss, shaped by long roads, and defined by a code of honour you hold to even when no one is watching. When you finally step forward, the world shifts. Because it was always waiting for you.

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You have seen more than you let on, and you say less than you know — which is exactly as it should be. You are a catalyst: you do not fight the battles yourself, you ignite the people who can. Your wisdom comes not from books but from an age of watching what happens when it is ignored. You arrive precisely when you mean to, and your presence alone changes what is possible. A wizard is never late.

Graceful, perceptive, and almost preternaturally calm under pressure — you see things others miss and act before others react. You do not need to make a scene to be remarkable; your presence speaks for itself. You are loyal to those you choose to stand beside, and that choice is not made lightly. You have lived long enough to know that the most beautiful things in this world are also the most fragile, and that is why you fight to protect them.

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You are loud, proud, and absolutely formidable — and beneath all of that is one of the most fiercely loyal hearts in Middle-earth. You don’t do anything by half measures. Your friendships are forged like iron, your grudges run as deep as mines, and your courage in battle is the kind that makes legends. You came into this fellowship suspicious of everyone and ended it willing to die for an elf. That is not a small thing. That is everything.

You think in centuries and act in absolutes. Order, dominion, control — not because you are cruel by nature, but because you have decided that the world left to itself always falls apart, and you are the only one with the vision and the will to hold it together. You were not always this. Something was lost, or taken, or betrayed, and the version of you that stands now is the answer to that wound. The tragedy is that you’re not entirely wrong — just entirely too far gone to course-correct.

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You are a study in contradiction — pitiable and dangerous, cunning and broken, capable of both cruelty and something that once resembled love. You are defined by loss: of innocence, of self, of the one thing that gave your existence meaning. Two voices war inside you constantly, and the tragedy is that the better one sometimes wins, just not often enough, and never at the right moment. You are a warning, yes — but also a mirror. We are all a little Gollum, given the right ring and enough time.

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‘Elden Ring’ (2022)

2022 gave us such acclaimed titles as God of War Ragnarök and Horizon Forbidden West. However, if there’s one video game that has pretty much broken through the ranks of the medium to become a truly recognizable brand in pop culture as a whole, it’s Elden Ring. Directed by the great Hidetaka Miyazaki with worldbuilding by the one and only George R. R. Martin, this high-fantasy epic is set in the Lands Between and follows the Tarnished, who must repair the Elden Ring and become the new Elden Lord.

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Elden Ring is among the greatest high-fantasy projects, full stop. As a video game, it’s a fascinating and immersive experience, largely thanks to the sprawling, endlessly surprising world that Martin created. Indeed, discovery is the main selling point here, and one can easily spend hours on end traversing this realm, where there’s seemingly a new surprise in every nook. The damage-sponge nature of the enemies can be frustrating, but there’s also something undeniably rewarding about finally defeating someone you’ve been stuck on for hours. Finally, the story is intriguing and quite challenging, making for a complete gaming experience that you’ll want to play again as soon as you end it. Elden Ring will soon become a movie directed by Alex Garland, so here’s hoping it can match the game’s groundbreaking and unforgettable tone.

‘Baldur’s Gate 3’ (2023)

A female demon with glowing eyes in 'Baldur's Gate 3'.
A screenshot from ‘Baldur’s Gate 3’.
Image via Larian Studios

Many video game fantasy masterpieces have come out since the medium’s inception, but only a select few rank atop a hypothetical Mount Rushmore of the genre, including Baldur’s Gate 3. Adapted from the fifth edition of Dungeons & Dragons, the game is the third entry in the series and follows the party as they go on a quest to rid themselves of the illithid parasites infesting their brains. Unlike the source material, Baldur’s Gate 3 can be played either solo or with companions.

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2023 might just be the best year for video games in the 2020s so far — the next two entries on this list are also from 2023. However, there’s something about Baldur’s Gate 3 that makes it all the more special. The setting is high-fantasy to a tee, embracing the tropes inherent to it while also finding clever ways to elevate them, if not necessarily subverting them. The side quests are also fun and worthwhile, feeling like complements rather than distractions. The strongest aspect, however, is how perfectly it emulates the nature of playing an actual D&D campaign. Creativity is key to succeed here, as is resourcefulness. Moreover, Baldur’s Gate 3 is a perfect RPG because it actually makes every choice count: make the wrong move, and you and your party are done.

‘The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom’ (2023)

Zelda in a Cave in 'The Legend of Zelda Tears of the Kingdom' Image via Nintendo

In 2017, Nintendo and the gaming industry as a whole found themselves in a true before-and-after moment, thanks to the release of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Quite possibly the franchise’s best game ever, Breath of the Wild redefined Zelda for a new generation and set the standard for what an open-world gaming experience could be. Six years later, the sequel came out, and it lived up to its predecessor. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom follows Link as he searches for Princess Zelda while attempting to stop Ganondorf from destroying Hyrule.

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Tears of the Kingdom takes everything that worked in Breath of the Wild and improves it, expanding on the lore, worldbuilding, characterization, and, of course, the open world. The result is a majestic and sprawling game that feels like an endless adventure in a fantastical and mesmerizing realm. The Sky Islands are a particularly brilliant addition, not only adding to the world’s scope but also providing an interesting challenge to familiar gameplay. The new abilities are also a huge strength; by 2023, players had been controlling Link for almost forty years, so the fact that Tears of the Kingdom finds a way to keep the experience not only engaging but actually refreshing is a testament to its overall quality. It’s easy to say The Legend of Zelda is probably experiencing its best era right now, so hopefully the upcoming live-action movie can continue the momentum.

‘Resident Evil 4’ (2023)

Leon S. Kennedy in Resident Evil 4 Image via Capcom

Remakes can be tricky to pull off, especially when the original game in question is widely considered a masterpiece of the medium and a highlight of its franchise. Yet, 2023’s Resident Evil 4 proved itself every bit as worthy, to the point where it might actually be the definitive version of the story. As with the 2005 original, this remake centers on Leon S. Kennedy, who must rescue the daughter of the President, Ashley Graham, from a mysterious cult in rural Spain.

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Resident Evil 4 does exactly what a great remake should: it maintains the essence of the original while updating the graphics, gameplay, storyline, and characterization. In the process, it not only justifies its existence but it actually makes a strong case for the importance of remakes in gaming, considering the industry is evolving at an alarming pace. Resident Evil 4 also understands that no story can thrive without strong characterizations, and it cements Leon and Ashley as two of the revered franchise’s most compelling figures. It is also far scarier than the original, partly because of the improved designs, but also because of the haunting and pervasive atmosphere of dread that it successfully maintains throughout. The Resident Evil saga has produced several gaming gems, but Resident Evil 4 has a special place as one of its defining titles and arguably the best execution of its distinct themes and settings.


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Resident Evil 4


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Released

January 11, 2005

ESRB

M for Mature: Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Language

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Tony Dokoupil pauses CBS broadcast for crew member's 'medical emergency' live on air: 'Is he okay?'

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Dokoupil checked on the crew member after a thudding sound could be heard as the anchor reported from Taiwan.

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Aaron Carter’s Ex-Fiancee Reaches Wrongful Death Settlement

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Aaron Carter’s ex-fiancée, Melanie Martin, has reached a settlement in her wrongful death lawsuit for the pop star.

According to court documents obtained by Us Weekly, a motion for a determination of good faith was filed on Tuesday, May 12.. The agreement was made in April between Martin, a mental health clinic and a psychiatrist. The group attempted mediation the month prior but did not reach an agreement at that time.

“This motion is made on the ground that the subject settlement was entered into in good faith and … in that it was the result of arms-length negotiations between the parties based on their respective and independent assessments of the probability of a favorable outcome at trial, weighed against the costs of litigation,” the docs read.

Martin, the clinic and the psychiatrist agreed to settle the lawsuit with a “confidential sum.”

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Related: Aaron Carter’s Ex-Fiancee Claims His Mom Is Trying to Steal Inheritance

Aaron Carter’s former fiancée Melanie Martin is claiming that the late singer’s mother, Jane Carter, is trying to steal their 4-year-old son’s inheritance. “Hi guys, I’m just going to say it straight up: Aaron’s mother is trying to gain rights to Prince’s inheritance and his name,” Martin, 33, alleged in a Wednesday, December 3, Facebook post.  […]

The other parties involved — which includes a dentist and two additional pharmacies — have been informed of the settlement.

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Us reached out to all parties for comment.

Martin initially filed the lawsuit in October 2023 on behalf of her and Carter’s son, Prince, 4. Carter and Martin got engaged in June 2020 but called things off one week after the birth of their son in November 2021. The pair had an on-and-off relationship up until Carter’s death. Prince is the only beneficiary of Carter’s estate.

After his death, Martin claimed that doctors, dentists, mental health clinics and pharmacies who had prescribed him multiple medications were responsible for his passing.

Carter, who was candid about his struggles with drug abuse, was found dead at his California home in November 2022. He was 34. His death was ruled as accidental drowning after inhaling difluoroethane and taking alprazolam.

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Martin’s suit alleged that Carter was prescribed hydrocodone, oxycodone and alprazolam with no justification. The lawsuit argued that the drugs and their quantities, plus Carter’s previous mental health issues, should have served as a warning for the medical professionals.

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Aaron Carters Mom Throws Fit Over Late Pop Stars Assets


Related: Aaron Carter’s Mom Jane Fighting His Estate Over Late Pop Star’s Assets

Aaron Carter’s mom was involved in a recent fight with the late pop star’s estate over the value of the assets he left behind, Us Weekly can exclusively report. On January 22, Aileen Federizo, the rep for Carter’s estate, revealed details of the dispute in new court docs. Federizo claimed Carter’s mom, Jane Schneck, did […]

The medical professionals have denied Martin’s allegations and maintained that they provided the standard of care.

Earlier this year, Martin was accused by Carter’s mom, Jane Schneck, of making “illegal” withdrawals from the late singer’s accounts. In February, Schneck claimed Martin withdrew $24,530.57.

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Martin denied the allegations in a statement to TMZ, saying, “Jane is uninformed on Aaron’s financials.”

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Madonna, BTS and Shakira for World Cup Final Halftime Show

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Super Bowl Halftime Performers

Madonna, Shakira and BTS are set to headline the first-ever FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show in July.

The Fédération Internationale de Football Association announced the news late Wednesday, May 13, in an Instagram post.

The 2026 World Cup final is set to take place on Sunday, July 19, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

“A FIFA World Cup first, the Halftime Show supports the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, a landmark initiative working to raise $100 USD million to expand access to quality education and football for children around the world,” FIFA said in its Instagram post. “Throughout the tournament, USD 1 from every ticket sold to FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches will be donated to the Fund.”

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Super Bowl Halftime Performers


Related: 10 Best Super Bowl Halftime Shows Ever, Ranked: Lady Gaga, Beyonce and More

The Super Bowl halftime show has always been an exciting and coveted spot for musicians. Before Bad Bunny takes center stage at the 2026 Super Bowl this weekend, we must remember our history. From iconic reunions to infamous wardrobe malfunctions, to “Left Shark” and calling Drake a pedophile in front of millions of people in […]

The first World Cup Halftime Show is curated by Coldplay’s Chris Martin, who revealed the headliners in an Instagram video on Wednesday. The video featured Martin joined by characters from Sesame Street and The Muppets, including Elmo, Cookie Monster, Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy.

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Shakira is already associated with the 2026 World Cup, as she and Nigerian singer Burna Boy provide the official song for the soccer tournament, “Dai Dai,” which was released last week. Shakira previously sang “Waka Waka,” the official theme song for the 2010 World Cup.

While a halftime show is first for the soccer tournament, Madonna and Shakira have both previously headlined the Super Bowl halftime show. Madonna performed during the Super Bowl XLVI halftime show in 2012. Shakira coheadlined the Super Bowl LIV halftime show in 2020 with Jennifer Lopez.

Lopez later criticized the NFL’s decision to have two coheadliners for the 2020 event.

Hottest MLS Players Lionel Messi Son Heung min


Related: Lionel Messi, Son Heung-min and More Hot MLS Players to Root for This Season

Major League Soccer is officially back, and the league’s hottest players are ready to score. As soccer fans head to stadiums across the country on Saturday, February 21, to celebrate opening day of the 2026 MLS season, several athletes are sure to grab the attention of attendees with their talents. “If you’re an average sports […]

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“We have six f***ing minutes. We have 30 seconds of a song, and if we take a minute, that’s it, we’ve got five left. But there’s got to be certain songs that we sing, though. We have to have our singing moments. It’s not going to be a dance f***ing revue,” Lopez said in her 2022 documentary Halftime. “We have to sing our message. … This is the worst idea in the world to have two people do the Super Bowl. It was the worst idea in the world.”

“Typically, you have one headliner at a Super Bowl. That headliner constructs a show, and, should they choose to have other guests, that’s their choice,” Lopez’s longtime manager, Benny Medina, said in the doc. “It was an insult to say you needed two Latinas to do the job that one artist historically has done.”

The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off on Thursday, June 11.

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Nick Lachey reveals what really happened when he saw ex-wife Jessica Simpson on flight to Hawaii: 'It's been 20 years'

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“We hadn’t seen each other in those 20 years,” Lachey said.

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Lala Kent Compares Amanda and West Drama to Scandoval

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Jordan Emanuel Bravo Stars Share Their Honest Reactions to Amanda Batula and West Wilson Shocking Romance

Lala Kent is feeling “nostalgic” about the drama over Summer House costars Amanda Batula and West Wilson’s new relationship.

“I love it,” Lala, 35, beamed during a Wednesday, May 13, appearance on Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen. “Who would have thought we’d get to relive [‘Scandoval’]? Like, we get to do it twice.”

She likened the social media furore over Amanda and West’s budding romance to the “Scandoval” drama that erupted on Vanderpump Rules in 2023 when Tom Sandoval’s shocking affair with Rachel ‘Raquel’ Leviss was publicly disclosed. (Tom was in a relationship with Ariana Madix at the time but they subsequently split. Earlier this month, Tom and Ariana finally sold their L.A. home three years after breaking up.)

“We’re so lucky,” Lala joked. “I had Lindsay [Hubbard] on the podcast today and obviously she couldn’t reveal everything [about the upcoming reunion]. But she was like, ‘Just wait!’”

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Jordan Emanuel Bravo Stars Share Their Honest Reactions to Amanda Batula and West Wilson Shocking Romance


Related: Winter House’s Jordan Emanuel Sounds Off on Amanda and West’s Romance

Even Bravo’s biggest reality stars are shocked by the drama surrounding the cast of Summer House. The internet lit up when Amanda Batula confirmed her romance with BFF and costar Ciara Miller’s ex-boyfriend West Wilson. “Given the complicated relationship dynamics involved and the scrutiny that comes with being on a reality show, we needed a […]

Amanda and West, 34 and 31 respectively, stunned the Bravoverse on March 31 when they revealed they were pursuing a “connection” after repeatedly denying they were dating in the past. (The revelation came mere months after Amanda and estranged husband Kyle Cooke announced their separation in January.)

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“We’ve seen the growing online speculation, so while this is still very new, we wanted to provide some clarity,” Amanda and West said in a joint statement in March. “It was never our intention to purposely hide anything. Given the complicated relationship dynamics involved and the scrutiny that comes with being on a reality show, we needed a little space to process things privately before speaking on it.”

They went on, “We’ve shown up for each other as friends over the years, through all the highs and lows, and what’s developed recently was the last thing either of us expected,” they continued. “Our connection grew out of a genuine, longstanding friendship, which made it especially important for us to approach this with care.”

“As our feelings evolved, we wanted to take time to understand exactly what we were feeling. We also recognize that this has had an impact beyond just us and never wanted our actions to cause any hurt or be perceived as careless.,” their statement concluded. “We truly appreciate the understanding and respect as we navigate this.”

Lala Kent Compares Amanda and West Drama to Scandoval

Lala Kent on “Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen.”
Courtesy YouTube / Bravo

In the weeks since the bombshell announcement, questions have emerged over the exact timeline of Amanda and West getting together — as well as bombshell allegations from West’s ex-girlfriend Ciara Miller that he may have also slept with married Real Housewives of New Jersey star Jenn Fessler. (Jenn has repeatedly denied ever hooking up with West and seemingly has threatened legal action against Ciara. The RHONJ alum has been married to her husband, Jeffrey Fessler, since 1999 and they share two children, son Zachary and daughter Rachel.)

Meanwhile, Lala also touched on where she stands with some of her former Vanderpump Rules costars three years after the “Scandoval” drama. She told host Andy Cohen on Watch What Happens Live on Wednesday that she hasn’t spoken to former close friends James Kennedy and Ariana in a few years.

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Feature Where the Summer House Cast Stands After Torturous and Emotionally Draining Reunion and Leak


Related: What’s Next for ‘Summer House’ and Its Cast After ‘Torturous’ Reunion

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It was the audio leak heard around the world: On April 23, shortly after the cast of Summer House filmed their highly anticipated reunion special in New York City, unauthorized recordings from the set went viral. In the clips, emotions ran high as castmates appeared to press Amanda Batula and West Wilson on their shocking […]

“I haven’t spoken to anybody since that reunion,” she revealed. “Yeah, that’s true.”

Of course, Lala is still in touch with former Vanderpump Rules costars Brittany Cartwright, Tom Schwartz and Kristen Doute because they all appear on Bravo’s VPR spinoff The Valley.

Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen airs on Bravo Sundays through Thursdays.

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Erin Moriarty Rips Spike Lee Over ‘Michael’ Stance

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Michael Jackson World Summit children

Erin Moriarty feels Spike Lee was wrong to defend the exclusion of Michael Jackson’s sexual abuse accusations from the King of Pop’s recent biopic.

She argued that the allegations do matter and should have at least been hinted at, especially given how the entertainment industry is often known for ignoring, and sometimes even enabling, sexual abuse and grooming.

Just like Moriarty, several other critics have shared negative reviews of the movie, with some focusing on how it “whitewashes” Michael.

As attention continues to grow around the recently released Michael biopic, Moriarty has addressed what she believes is a misguided view of the film expressed by the late pop star’s friend, Spike Lee.

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Recently, Lee defended the producers’ decision to leave out the sexual abuse allegations that followed Michael in the years before his death.

However, in Moriarty’s view, that should not have been the case. She made her opinion clear in a strongly worded statement shared on her Instagram Story.

“I think there’s nuance here worth acknowledging,” the actress wrote, quoting a repost of Lee’s remarks. “Allegations of this severity do matter.”

Erin Moriarty Explains Why Michael Allegations Matter

Michael Jackson World Summit children
MEGA

To Moriarty, having the allegations at least hinted at in the biopic would have brought attention to what she believes is a major problem in the industry today.

“They are not irrelevant context; particularly within an industry that has historically minimized or enabled sexual abuse and grooming,” the actress continued.

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Moriarty also had issues with how the film has seemingly garnered such a strong reception from viewers despite Michael’s checkered twilight years.

The actor added, “The quality of the film may not be in question. But I think it’s fair to question the broader celebration of it, and what message that may send to survivors.”

Spike Lee Says ‘Michael’ Criticism Ignores The Timeline

Jaafar Jackson on the red carpet
MEGA

Meanwhile, Lee’s defense of the biopic was centered on the movie’s timeline, which is not set around the period when the accusations against Michael emerged.

“The movie ends in ‘88 & the stuff you’re talking about, accusations happened [later]. So, you’re critiquing the film on something you wanted, but it doesn’t work in the timeline of the film,” he said in an interview with CNN’s Laura Coates.

At the time, Lee also acknowledged the massive turnout in cinemas for the biopic, something Moriarty had declared she had issues with.

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“People showed up. Worldwide, people showed their love,” Lee told his host.

Critics Also Accused ‘Michael’ Of Whitewashing The Late Star

While Lee’s view of the biopic was positive, several critics shared negative opinions about the project, according to the BBC.

One review called it “frustratingly shallow” and noted that the film also fails to address how Michael “was an abuse victim, brutalized by his father and robbed of his childhood.”

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A similar sentiment was shared by a journalist who described the film as a “ghoulish, soulless cash grab.”

“All Michael does is recreate, in mechanical style, the most famous visuals of Jackson’s career,” they added. “It’s certainly easier that way. Why bother to depict a human being when you can simply turn them into a product?”

Adding to the criticism, another reporter called the project a “whitewash” of the late pop star and emphasized that its avoidance of the sexual allegations was a “borderline-fatal problem.”

They added that the accusations should have at least been acknowledged or foreshadowed in the movie, which would have made it more credible as a biopic of Michael.

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Colman Domingo Defended ‘Michael’ Amid Backlash

Colman Domingo on the red carpet
ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

Amid the backlash, Colman Domingo, who starred in the project as Michael’s father, defended the producers’ decision and also expressed hope that the allegations may one day be addressed in a sequel.

“The film takes place from the 60’s to 1988. It does not go into the first allegations … there’s a possibility of it being a Part 2 that may deal with some other things that happened afterward,” Domingo said during an interview on NBC’s “Today.”

He then emphasized that the project’s narrative focuses primarily on Michael’s rise to stardom and should be reviewed only through that lens.

“This is about the making of Michael, how he was raised, and then how he was trying to find his voice as an artist and be a solo artist,” Domingo added.

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Kylie Kelce and Taylor Swift Not As Close as Fans Think

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Taylor Swift at the 2019 Billboard Women In Music Presented By YouTube Music

Taylor Swift is preparing to officially join the Kelce family, but insiders say her relationship with future sister-in-law Kylie Kelce is far different from what fans imagine behind the scenes. 

While the two women reportedly care deeply about each other, sources claim they are simply living in completely different worlds. 

As Swift and Travis Kelce move closer to their highly anticipated summer wedding, the spotlight surrounding the family dynamic has only intensified, especially as Kylie continues trying to balance motherhood with sudden celebrity attention.

Taylor Swift at the 2019 Billboard Women In Music Presented By YouTube Music
Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency/MEGA

Taylor Swift and Kylie may publicly support each other, but insiders insist the two women are not especially close behind closed doors. 

According to sources, the singer and Jason Kelce’s wife simply operate in entirely different stages of life.

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“They’re the same age but they just live such different lives. Kylie is four babies in. All of [Taylor’s] friends are rich and famous and Kylie’s juggling mom duties, like, ‘I just need to go change a diaper,’” one insider told the Daily Mail

A second source echoed similar sentiments while insisting there is no bad blood between them. “They’re in different phases in life,” the insider shared before adding that the “love between them is legit,” they noted.

Despite endless speculation online, multiple sources reportedly shut down rumors of any feud between the women. Instead, insiders pointed to personality differences.

“Kylie’s just not that warm so people think she’s standoffish,” one source claimed, adding, “She’s very much like Donna Kelce. Taylor is nothing like Donna.”

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Swift Entered A Very Different Family Dynamic

Taylor Swift at Miss Americana World Premiere, Sundance Film Festival 2020
imageSPACE / MEGA

Long before Taylor Swift entered the Kelce family orbit, Kylie was living a relatively quiet life in Pennsylvania. 

The podcast host grew up in Narberth, Pennsylvania, before attending community college and later transferring to Cabrini University, where she studied communications and played field hockey.

Like many millennials, Kylie eventually turned to Tinder, where she met Jason during his Philadelphia Eagles career. 

While Jason has always maintained it was love at first sight, Kylie reportedly needed more convincing after he fell asleep during their first date after drinking too many beers. 

The couple married in 2018 and now share four daughters, Wyatt, Elliotte, Bennett, and Finnley.

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On the other hand, Swift’s upbringing looked dramatically different. Born in nearby West Reading, Pennsylvania, the Grammy winner’s future in entertainment appeared obvious from a young age. 

She once revealed her mother chose her name because “she wanted me to be a business person in a business world.” By age 11, Swift was traveling to Nashville meeting music executives. 

At 14, she signed with Sony, and by 16 she had already left school behind while climbing the country music charts.

Taylor Swift Only Met Kylie In 2024

Kylie Kelce wearing glasses
Instagram | Kylie Kelce

Despite Swift dating Travis publicly for months, she did not actually meet Kylie until January 2024 during a Chiefs playoff game against the Buffalo Bills.

That delay fueled online rumors that Kylie and Jason disliked the singer, but Kylie later shut those theories down herself.

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“People are deeply disturbed by this,” Kylie joked during an episode of the “Call Her Daddy” podcast while addressing the speculation, adding, “There was all of this stuff leading up to it about, ‘Why haven’t they met? They’re avoiding each other.’”

She continued, “I’m not avoiding anyone, I’m more than happy to meet someone, especially someone that Travis is dating.”

Since then, the women have reportedly spent limited time together publicly, including a double date hosted at Swift’s home while Kylie was eight weeks pregnant.

Still, sources claim Travis and Swift’s upcoming wedding has slowly brought the future sisters-in-law closer. “Now that it’s official that [Travis and Swift] are getting married, they’re starting to [get closer],” a source revealed.

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Swift has also reportedly made a strong effort to bond with the Kelce family overall. The singer even “cooked [the Kelce family] Thanksgiving last year,” according to insiders.

Swift Fame Changed Kylie’s Life Overnight

Kylie has openly admitted that sudden fame is not exactly comfortable for her. Back in November 2023, as Travis and Taylor Swift’s relationship exploded into global headlines, Kylie confessed the spotlight was “not” her cup of tea.

At nearly the same time, Jason’s Prime Video documentary introduced Kylie to a much wider audience. 

“The exact same moment Travis and Taylor announce they were dating; Jason’s movie came out and Kylie looked really good in it, and that was sort of the beginning of a transformation,” one insider explained.

Eventually, Kylie leaned into the attention by launching her own podcast because “people wanted to hear from her.” Still, sources say she remains far more reserved than Swift.

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Unlike the Grammy winner, Kylie has not fully embraced celebrity culture or integrated herself into Swift’s famous inner circle, which has included stars like Selena Gomez, Ice Spice, Jack Antonoff, Blake Lively, and Karlie Kloss over the years.

Taylor Swift’s Inner Circle Still Feels Separate From Kylie 

Taylor Swift
MEGA

Although Kylie Kelce’s public profile has skyrocketed over the past year, insiders say she still maintains distance from the Hollywood-style fame surrounding Swift.

One of the few celebrities Kylie reportedly connected with closely is comedian Jerrod Carmichael. That friendship came into the spotlight again this week when Carmichael introduced Kylie while presenting her with the Webby Award for Podcaster of the Year.

“She’s been incredible,” Carmichael said during his speech. “I guess my problem with the word authenticity is that even liars can say it. Like, anyone can use the word and not live it and not live up to it,” he added.

He continued, “I felt that just being with you, being around you, listening to you – you’re absolutely incredible. You make me feel like family.”

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Still, insiders say Kylie could easily step away from the frenzy if she truly wanted a quieter existence again.

“People aren’t obsessed with Taylor’s brother,” one source pointed out, adding, “If you really want to be a normal person then be a normal person.”

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PSA! Margot Robbie’s $890 Sneakers Have a $38 Amazon Twin

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WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 12: Reese Witherspoon, attends Apple TV's "The Last Thing He Told Me" Season Two Special Event at The West Hollywood EDITION on February 12, 2026 in West Hollywood, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/WireImage)

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If you’ve been trying to make your casual outfits look more expensive, Margot Robbie just handed Us the easiest solution Her sleek designer sneakers show how one strategic shoe choice can completely transform everyday staples. And yes, you can get her luxe look for less.

While in full off-duty mode, Robbie wore leggings, knee-high socks, an oversized sweatshirt, a baseball cap and a structured Chanel shoulder bag. She completed the look with sleek Loewe sneakers, which retail for around $890. Luckily, you don’t need her actress budget to get the look; this $38 version looks almost no different.

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Get the Lucky Step Trendy Low Top Retro Sneakers for $38 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

Here’s the good news: you don’t need a luxury budget to tap into the same energy. The Lucky Step Trendy Low Top Retro Sneakers deliver a strikingly similar look — capturing that same contrasted, designer-inspired silhouette that makes Robbie’s pair feel so elevated.

The appeal is in the details. A nylon-and-suede-style upper gives these sneakers that textured, expensive-looking finish, while the low-top, retro shape reads more “fashion sneaker” than gym shoe. They come in easy neutrals that go with everything, plus a few bolder options if you want your shoes to stand out. Either way, they hit that sweet spot between stylish and sporty — exactly what makes Robbie’s version work.

And shoppers have been generous with their reviews. One buyer called them a “great” lookalike for the designer version, noting that the quality makes them look “much more expensive” than the price tag suggests. Another raved about the “cushioned footbed,” calling them “ideal for long walks” and travel days.

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At the end of the day, Robbie’s off-duty style works because it’s balanced. Comfortable, but never careless — casual, but still polished. And with a $38 style that delivers the same vibe, recreating that effortless, expensive-looking formula suddenly feels a whole lot more attainable.

Get the Lucky Step Trendy Low Top Retro Sneakers for $38 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

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

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WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 12: Reese Witherspoon, attends Apple TV's "The Last Thing He Told Me" Season Two Special Event at The West Hollywood EDITION on February 12, 2026 in West Hollywood, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/WireImage)


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