Stars were out in force to witness the New York Knicks face off against the San Antonio Spurs in Game 5 of the NBA Finals.

Several high-profile personalities, including Prince Harry and Sydney Sweeney, watched on in person as the Knicks defeated the Spurs in a nail-biting finish at San Antonio’s Frost Bank Center on Saturday, June 13.

The Knicks’ 94-90 victory against their opponents meant the team ended a 53-year NBA championship drought in a history-making sporting event which saw them taking home the coveted Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy.

Scroll on for all the celebrities who attended Game 5 of the NBA finals.

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Taylor Swift clearly knows both ball and Aristotle, attending Game 4 of the 2026 NBA Finals. Swift, 36, made an appearance at Madison Square Garden in New York City on Wednesday, June 10, to watch the New York Knicks face the San Antonio Spurs. She arrived at the arena properly repping the home team with […]

Prince Harry 

Prince Harry made a surprise appearance in Texas to attend the basketball game after NBA Commissioner Adam Silver reportedly invited the former royal to the event.

Harry attended the event without his wife Meghan Markle and their two kids, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. He was seen walking down the corridor just before the game began and later among the spectators in the stands.

Over in the U.K., Harry’s estranged family, including his father King Charles and brother Prince William were busy with the annual royal event, Trooping The Colour.

Sydney Sweeney and Scooter Braun

Euphoria star Sydney Sweeney and her boyfriend Scooter Braun were among the crowd, much to the surprise of Charles Barkley.

“Sydney Sweeney is here?” the shocked Inside the NBA analyst asked. He added, “Everybody’s a New York Knicks fan now.”

The Housemaid actress previously attended Game 4 at Madison Square Garden with Braun.

Timothee Chalamet

Nothing could stop Timothée Chalamet from attending. The actor appeared at the game without girlfriend Kylie Jenner, who has been by his side at previous events.

Decked out in Knicks attire, there was no guessing which team the Marty Supreme actor was backing.

Celebrating on the court after the Knicks’ historic win,  Chalamet was ecstatic about the result.

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“Way rather this than the Oscars, c’mon baby,” the four-time Academy Award nominee said post-game, per Page Six. “Knicks are champions, baby!”

Ben Stiller 

Fellow Knicks superfan Ben Stiller was also spotted at Frost Bank Center as he threw his support behind his longtime favorite team.

Spike Lee

Filmmaker Spike Lee is no stranger to cheering on his beloved Knicks, and he also made his way to Texas to witness Game 5.

Milo Ventimiglia‘s wife Jarah Mariano is sharing a rare glimpse into their life as parents as the couple prepare to welcome baby number two.

Taking to her Instagram on Saturday, June 13, Mariano, 42, posted a carousel of photos and images which featured the This Is Us alum and their 18-month-old daughter Ke’ala.

One wholesome image showed Mariano holding Ke’ala as she stretched out to touch a horse.

Another snap featured Ventimiglia, 48, posing with Ke’ala strapped to his back and a dog in front of him.

Other pictures displayed Mariano’s growing baby bump as the couple gear up to welcome their second child together.  Ke’ala’s face was obscured in all photos, seemingly to protect her privacy.

“Some different views of the first half of 2026 in no particular order. Being present, being grateful, just being. Sending out the love to you all,” Mariano captioned the post.

Mariano and Ventimiglia welcomed Ke’ala in January 2025 two weeks after the couple’s Malibu home burned down in wildfires that devastated California. A year after Ke’ala’s birth, they announced they were expecting their second child together.

The Gilmore Girls alum appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live! in February and spoke about how he was adjusting to fatherhood as well as joking they “must be crazy” to go back-to-back with a second pregnancy.

“She’s actually doing great. She’s sleeping through the night. She loves to wake up at 5.40 in the morning and talk to herself, kinda jabber on and whatnot. My wife and I are lying in bed like, ‘Does she have her [pacifier]?’ ‘I don’t know. I can’t tell from the monitor.’ ‘Did she poop herself?’ ‘I don’t know. I can’t tell from the monitor,’” he said. “And then you’re kind of like, after a certain period of time, you know this. You walk in there, you’re like, well, she didn’t poop herself, and she’s got her [pacifier], so the world’s good.”

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Related: Milo Ventimiglia Makes Rare Comment About Bonding With ‘Magical’ Daughter

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Milo Ventimiglia has loved embracing daddy duty. “I hang with my kid,” Ventimiglia, 48, said of his favorite hobbies on the Thursday, February 19, episode of Annie F. Downs’ “That Sounds Fun” podcast. “[I’m] just watching my daughter, kind of, observe life and be curious herself.” Ventimiglia’s wife, Jarah Mariano, gave birth to their daughter, […]

Ventimiglia added that he initially had big plans to be a “wonder-parent” but was forced to be more realistic and do the best he could after a tough year.

“Listen, my wife is the most unbelievable — Jarah, if you’re watching, you are the most unbelievable human being, creature, species of everything. She handles everything great. But, you know, I mean, when you’re a first parent too, you kind of think you’re going to be this wonder-parent,” he explained.

He continued, “I was striving to. I’m like, ‘Cool, man. I’m going to be the healthiest. We’re going to feed this baby organic. We’re going to buy blenders, do all this stuff. We’re going to go argue with some dude named Kale about blueberries at the farmers’ market.’ Then, after a while, you’re like, ‘Oh, man, we had quite a year.’”

You don’t need an East Coast summer house to recreate the aesthetic. New England rich moms are top-tier polished — essential for country club luncheons, boarding school drop-offs and weekends in the Hamptons. Their classy staples carry them through, and we found 17 luxe-looking pieces that could pass as something from their closet.

Whether you’re searching for dresses, blouses, pants, skirts or even footwear, you’ll find them below. These coastal-chic picks should cost hundreds, but they start at just $6! Breezy, elegant and all sorts of luxe, our favorites truly belong in Martha’s Vineyard.

19 New England-Style Summer Pieces — From $6

New England-Style Dresses

1. Our Favorite: Ruffle cap sleeves and a buttery yellow hue give Dokotoo’s midi dress pure Nantucket vibes. The length works from brunch to dinner.

2. Extra Preppy: A crisp collar and eye-catching color scheme elevate this T-shirt dress from basic to country club. It’s the easiest one-and-done outfit you’ll throw on all summer.

3. Eyelet Style: Wear this romantic eyelet dress to an outdoor wedding with woven sandals and gold hoops. It photographs like something triple the price.

4. Flower Girl: This delicate floral dress has that boutiquey feel you’d find on Newbury Street, minus the $300 price tag. The art-like print reads so elevated.

5. Could Be Lilly: Oversized blooms, a vintage style and bright colors give this vibrant dress real Lilly Pulitzer energy. Somehow, some way, it’s only $28!

6. Upgraded Tee: The comfy loungewear feel — without looking like you gave up. Just throw on this simple yet chic maxi dress with sandals, and you’re done.

7. Beach Babe: With a built-in waist tie, this beachy maxi dress cinches right where you want it. It smoothes your midsection without feeling restrictive.

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New England-Style Blouses

8. Our Favorite: Tiny scattered florals make this dainty blouse feel quietly expensive. Tuck it into white denim and you have the easiest (but cutest) weekend outfit.

9. Zimmermann Vibes: Zimmermann blouses run several hundred dollars, but PrettyGarden’s frilly cap-sleeve top has the same dreamy silhouette for only $20.

10. Oh-So Polished: Short puff sleeves and a button front give this striped shirt a Hamptons-meets-Hermès look. The classic stripes work with any bottoms.

11. Silky Satin: When you want to look socialite-rich, a long-sleeve satin blouse is the answer. This one has the drape you’d expect at 10 times the price.

12. Royal Vibes: Kate Middleton wears bow-tie blouses, so naturally, we’re snagging this short-sleeved pussy-bow blouse that channels her regal polish. It makes you appear instantly refined, but won’t leave you sweating in the heat.

13. Mock-Neck Maven: For some women, spaghetti straps feel like a no-go. This mock-neck tank top covers more without sacrificing that summery flair.

New England-Style Pants and Skirts

14. Like Linen: Linen-like fabric gives these palazzo pants all the ease with none of the wrinkle drama. The wide legs flow beautifully with every step.

15. Expensive Aesthetic: Lounge pants can sometimes look frumpy, but these striped wonders channel Capri vacation vibes, even if you’re just hanging on the porch.

16. Boho Twist: This boho-meets-preppy floral midi skirt is practically made for farmer’s market mornings. The curved hemline adds dimension that flat cuts can’t match.

17. Wardrobe MVP: Linen-blend fabric ensures these staple black pants are cooling on days when other options feel suffocating. Under $10 makes them an obvious add.

New England-Style Shoes

18. Reader-Loved: Strappy shoes can be a pain to get on and off. These slip-on sandals feature a clean H-strap design that stays secure without the hassle of tying or fastening.

19. Bye, Sneakers: Slip on these Mary Jane flats with cropped trousers for lunch downtown, or with a midi dress for museum afternoons. Sneakers? Retired!

Related: Amazon‘s Latest Fashion Drop Gives Off Aritzia Vibes — All Under $30

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If you dream of having a wardrobe filled with Aritzia clothing pieces, same. But why drop your entire paycheck if you don’t have to? We found 13 Aritzia-style gems hiding in Amazon’s Hot New Releases section, and we seriously can’t tell the difference. Somehow, they’re all under $30! With clean lines, rich neutral colors and […]

By Chris Snellgrove
| Updated 4 seconds ago

Marvel fans are gearing up to see their friendly neighborhood web-head swing back into theaters next month in Spider-Man: Brand New Day, a film destined to become this summer’s biggest blockbuster. However, that’s just the appetizer for fans of this cinematic universe. The main course will be Avengers: Doomsday, which comes out on December 18. So far, most of the details on that ambitious crossover extravaganza have been kept a secret, meaning fans could only speculate about this movie’s story based on early trailers. Now, though, Marvel Studios has released an official synopsis for Doomsday.

Aside from details about the cast, the directors, and the producers, the synopsis only contains a one-sentence description of the upcoming film’s plot. “In Avengers: Doomsday, beloved heroes from three distinct universes will be set on a deadly collision course and face an existential threat unlike anything they’ve ever encountered.” That’s not much to go on, but Marvel comics fans think they’ve deciphered what this means. If they are right, we know exactly what to expect about this (quite literally) universe-shattering plot, and those details reveal something astounding: that Marvel has been planning the major events of this film for over half a decade, littering films and TV shows with clues!

The Devil’s In The Details

So, what does this synopsis actually mean? Marvel Comics superfans agree that the part about universes being “on a deadly collision course” and facing “an existential threat” is quite literal. In the comics, Doctor Doom’s multiversal shenanigans set off a chain of events in which parallel realities keep colliding with one another, destroying both. To avoid this outcome, there is only one option: one Earth must destroy the other before the collision begins. Afterward, Doom merges the destroyed realities into a Battleworld under his control. Once he’s defeated, the primary universe is reset, but with some changes, like the addition of Miles Morales.

What does that mean for Avengers: Doomsday and the MCU? Doom is going to similarly set off these multiversal incursions, and we’re going to see three different universes fight for survival. In all likelihood, those universes will be the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the Tobey Maguire Spider-Man universe, and the original X-Men universe. Those universes will be destroyed, but Doom will revive and merge them into a Battleworld. After he’s beaten in Secret Wars, we’ll have a reset MCU where certain characters and actors have changed. There will also be lore changes, like the introduction of the X-Men and other mutants into the MCU.

Are You Down With Multiverses?

As cool as this sounds, some Marvel fans are skeptical because Avengers: Doomsday feels like a Plan B. Everybody knows that Kang was supposed to be the next Big Bad and only got replaced because of Jonathan Majors’ legal woes. That’s enough to make a cynic think that Doomsday is just a bunch of weird ideas held together by nostalgia. However, some comics fans have been deciphering more clues, and they have reached an amazing conclusion. Namely, that Marvel Studios has been secretly building up to Doomsday for over half a decade!

How does that work? For one thing, Doctor Strange and the Multiverse of Madness explicitly introduced the idea of multiversal incursions. If Doomsday had been the first film to introduce this idea into the MCU, fans would likely wonder why we hadn’t already heard of it. Now, Doomsday is building its whole plot on a key thematic element from Multiverse of Madness: namely, that incursions are dangerous, and those causing them can endanger potentially countless lives throughout each universe. That point is further driven home by a villain accidentally causing an incursion in The Marvels.

A Universe Without Its Anchor

Additionally, while we won’t see more incursions until Avengers: Doomsday, we’ve already seen the TVA “pruning” reality and destroying entire multiverses at a time. Furthermore, Deadpool & Wolverine introduced the idea of Anchor Beings whose entire universes will slowly disappear once they die. The intentional destruction of universes will likely play a role in Doom setting off the incursions (maybe he uses TVA tech or resources to travel to different realities). The TVA’s looser grip on the multiverse may even play a role in worlds colliding. Finally, there are persistent rumors that Tony Stark was the MCU’s anchor being, and his death paved the way for the arrival of Doom, his multiversal counterpart.

Obviously, we won’t know exactly how accurate all of these predictions are until Avengers: Doomsday comes out. But the official synopsis lines up with the comics this movie and Secret Wars are based on, and it really does seem like Marvel has been building up to Doomsday by dropping powerful clues in previous movies and shows. Hopefully, all of this buildup will have a correspondingly rewarding payoff. Otherwise, the blockbuster film intended to cure superhero fatigue may serve as the final nail in the coffin for the most successful cinematic universe in Hollywood history.

Zoe Spencer is giving Streamer University another shot. The content creator recently revealed that she plans to apply for Streamer University 2. The announcement comes a year after she spoke out about missing out on the inaugural class.

Related: Kai Cenat Responds After Zoe Spencer’s Emotional Reaction to Streamer University Rejection (WATCH)

Zoe Spencer Announces Plans To Submit Application For Streamer University 2

During a recent TikTok livestream, Zoe Spencer revealed that she plans to apply for Streamer University 2 after not making the program’s first class. The announcement quickly sparked reactions online, with some fans rooting for her return while others questioned whether she should apply again.

Zoe previously said she felt like an outcast after missing out on the original Streamer University. She later shared her disappointment that several of her peers landed spots in the program. The discussion quickly gained traction across social media and eventually prompted Kai Cenat to respond. During a livestream, Kai addressed speculation surrounding Zoe’s absence from the program and clarified where the two stood.

Social Media Reacts

The Shade Room Teens’ comment section quickly filled with opinions following Zoe’s announcement.

Instagram user @kendrickthomasjr wrote, “😭 bro any person that gets posted on the shaderoom teens shouldn’t be applying for SU!”

Another Instagram user @karessgotfans wrote, “Watch he let her in this time cause he not w that girl no more 😂”

While Instagram user @kssimonee wrote, “Hoping she gets in this time 🙏🏽😌”

Instagram user @tsx2__ wrote, “I literally wouldn’t have applied again.”

Another Instagram user @misseniacoded wrote, “I don’t believe they didn’t want her in. It might’ve was because Kai had a gf so he made an expectation for her and denied Zoe 🤷🏽‍♀️ but again this is just a thought…”

While Instagram users @e_lexussss wrote, “It should solely be for upcoming streamers.”

Instagram user @_therealarion wrote, “After Zoey went to that internet she woulda never been even considered or been a second thought. She too internet.”

Another Instagram user @lobaab7 wrote, “She still begging for it after she was embarrassed, she needs to do more to be on the top instead of being at streamer uni, we know he won’t accept her.”

While Instagram user @brax.dumpin wrote, “Don’t ask twice Zoe!!!”

Kai Cenat Hosts Streamer University 2 Tryouts in New York

Zoe’s announcement comes as Kai Cenat continues preparing for the second edition of Streamer University. Earlier this week, the streamer revealed that he would host in-person application events in New York, Atlanta, and Los Angeles.

On Friday, June 12, Kai kicked off the New York tryouts, where aspiring creators gathered to showcase their personalities, creativity, and content skills for a chance to earn a spot in the upcoming class. Several familiar faces also appeared at the event, including members of Kai’s own family. His siblings tried out for Streamer University, leading to a viral moment online when they jokingly threatened to call their mother if they weren’t accepted into the program.

Related: Unfazed! Kai Cenat Reveals “Hate Wall” That Keeps Him Motivated While Building His Clothing Brand (VIDEO)

When it comes to Disney animated films, our adoration for the movies comes through the vibrant world-building and extraordinary characters. We revere the protagonists of the films who inspire us to do good, but it’s the villains who are just deliciously bad. And we love them for that. If the upcoming Villains Land at Magic Kingdom is any indication, our adoration for Disney villains runs deep. Today, we celebrate them.

Not all Disney animated villains are created equal. Some are sinister, others are diabolical. But the best of the best know how to charm the pants off the hero of the story. The characters on this list exude charm in ways that nearly make them victorious in their respective stories. From conniving their nephew that they were why their father died to wooing a princess to the point an entire kingdom goes down in flames—well, ice—these villains are notoriously bad, yet charismatic to the end. They can sing a song, flash a smile, and literally get away with murder. And that’s what makes them great.

10

Dawn Bellwether

‘Zootopia’ (2016)

Image via Walt Disney Animation

Just because a Disney character looks all cute and cuddly doesn’t mean they’re on the good side. Case in point, Zootopia’s assistant mayor, Dawn Bellweather (Jenny Slate). In the hit Zootopia, Dawn is the diminutive, soft-spoken sheep who is introduced as the overworked and underappreciated second in command. But ewe wouldn’t believe that lurking underneath was a manipulative criminal mastermind who orchestrated a conspiracy to make predators go savage in order to seize political power. With a mission to incite fear and establish a new social order, Dawn epitomizes the politicians we see in our own society. She may be small in stature, but Dawn has a way with words. In a story about not judging a book by its cover, Dawn is literally a wolf in sheep’s clothing.

Dawn is charming in the sense that she subverts expectations. Her allure lies in her harmless, meek exterior. She’s sweet on the surface, telling everyone everything they need to hear, but it’s her surprise turn as a political operative that makes the twist so exceptional. She gives off an underdog essence. She’s a little guy fighting for the little guys. But the charismatic mask the subordinate wears hides a power-hungry schemer that literally no one saw coming. Thanks to Dawn, we can no longer trust the cute and cuddly critters in Disney’s animal kingdom.

9

Scar

‘The Lion King’ (1994)

Image via Walt Disney Animation

If there is a Mount Rushmore of Disney villains, Scar (Jeremy Irons) would be proudly up there, grinning down on us. The primary villain in the Disney Renaissance masterpiece The Lion King, Scar is the envious brother of Mufasa (James Earl Jones). Knowing how those deadly sins operate, when there is envy, there may be murder. With pure villain coursing through his veins, Scar’s charm comes from his outward theatricality, razor-sharp wit, and magnetic arrogance. Seeing the world around him as his chess pieces, Scar proudly rallied a pack of hyenas to do his bidding. And with support behind him, he was able to pull off the most horrific parent-related homicide since Bambi. But the worst part was how effortlessly he convinced his nephew Simba (Jonathan Taylor Thomas) that his father’s death at the hooves of the stampede was his fault.

Scar, while jaded, exudes a confidence that makes his coup flawless. He’s smooth and calculated. No one ever sees him sweat because there are no emotions within. Remorse? Scar’s never heard of it. Scar’s charm comes from having to build up a facade, having lived in the shadows of his brother. Operating from the literal shadows, Scar’s intellect and ambition are dangerous. As he sings in “Be Prepared,” his uprising was based on injustice long in the making. The monster he became may have been forced upon him due to the situation of lineage. Scar almost got away with it, without any genuine pushback, but as we know from Hamlet, the protagonist will always swoop in to make wrongs right again.

8

Mother Gothel

‘Tangled’ (2010)

Image via Walt Disney Animation

To understand the extent of Mother Gothel’s (Donna Murphy) charm, simply watch the mastery of “Mother Knows Best.” Telling the story of Rapunzel (Mandy Moore), Tangled follows the long-lost princess with 70 feet of magical hair, who is kept locked away in a secluded tower by the wicked Mother Gothel. Desperate to see the floating lanterns, she escapes her tower alongside the charming fugitive Flynn Ryder (Zachary Levi), leaving Gothel no choice but to continue to manipulate the truth. Mother Gothel is a psychological villain. Rather than relying on overt magical powers or brute force, she uses emotional manipulation and a veneer of affection to keep Rapunzel under her thumb.

Gothel’s charisma and bravado, delivered through her passive-aggressive put-downs and guilt trips, offer a glimpse into her sinister style. Everything that Gothel does is under the guise of “protecting” Rapunzel from the dangers of the outside world. The truth is, she needs the princess because it’s her only way to stay young and beautiful. She may be evil, but Mother Gothel is one relatable diva! Gothel’s appearance as a sultry, Gothic beauty, paired with expressive mannerisms, lends a magnetic confidence. In a time when love and affection are overpowered by emotional manipulation and gaslighting in any relationship, that toxicity is a terrifyingly accurate reflection of narcissism. We can’t wait to see what Kathryn Hahn does when she gets her hands on Gothel!

7

Gaston

‘Beauty and the Beast’ (1991)

Image via Walt Disney Animation

Evil is hot. Narcissism is not. And yet, Beauty and the Beast‘s Gaston (Richard White) is the allure of that tiny provincial village. The truth is, Gaston could easily charm any woman in town, sans Belle (Paige O’Hara). But that’s because she was always a special one, that Belle. Gaston moves into evil-villain territory because when he doesn’t get what he wants, he goes to extremes. And since he can’t get Belle on his own, he manipulates the entire town to join his crusade to kill the Beast (Robby Benson). Gaston is initially presented as a Disney prince of sorts, only to have that turned on its head. Beauty and the Beast is a story about how to discover the true beast among men. In the end, it was always Gaston.

He loves a challenge, but hates losing. His striking looks and athletic prowess made him feel entitled. Gaston is the epitome of vain. As the only individual who looked and acted like him, there was an instant draw toward him. His desire to stand out was prevalent; why else would he hit down and make LeFou (Jesse Corti) his bumbling sidekick, half his size and stout in stature? Ego. It’s all about ego, but he covers it up with confidence and charm. Gaston is the hero of his story, which makes him quite dangerous. His ultimate downfall is his pride, which should serve as a warning to all other overly attractive individuals who are the villains in everyone else’s story.

6

Jafar

‘Aladdin’ (1992)

Image via Walt Disney Animation

It’s quite shocking to realize that of all the major villains in the Disney Renaissance, Jafar (Jonathan Freeman) is the only one without a solo song. Yes, he does have a reprise of “Prince Ali,” but the fact that his charm exudes beyond a song is quite revealing. But don’t worry, he’s got a hefty arsenal to pull from. Aladdin follows the titular character (Scott Weinger), a kind-hearted street urchin, who, after finding a magic lantern, uses an eccentric wish-granting Genie (Robin Williams) to win the heart of Princess Jasmine (Linda Larkin). But it’s Jafar, the Royal Vizier of Agrabah, who is a power-hungry sorcerer scheming to steal the lamp in order to overthrow the throne. Though tall and gaunt, Jafar’s menacing presence should have been a warning to the Sultan (Douglas Seale) that he was sitting next to danger the entire time. I mean, red and black signify evil!

Jafar’s charm comes from his clear, calculating demeanor. He’s a smooth, articulate talker who has a way with words. But it’s that velvety voice that wins you over first. He is wickedly theatrical despite presenting a facade of normalcy. Alone, he’s got a dramatic flair that makes you love-to-hate him. Paired with a hot-tempered parrot named Iago (Gilbert Gottfried), he’s got a minion to do his bidding. By the time that Jafar becomes an all-powerful genie himself, it seems like the game is over. But his flaw of hubris becomes his catastrophic downfall. Jafar is one of the best there ever was. His image may scare you, but his words will win you.

5

Ratigan

‘The Great Mouse Detective’ (1986)

Image via Walt Disney Animation

Being voiced by Vincent Price is already a mark in the plus column when it comes to charming villains! Though The Great Mouse Detective arrived during Disney’s dark period, the film still holds up quite well. One, because it has a strong basis for its source material. And two, its iconic villain, Professor Ratigan. The Great Mouse Detective tells the tale of mouse detective Basil on his quest to prevent the diabolical Ratigan from hatching his evil plan to brainwash the citizens and declare himself the supreme ruler of Mousedom. Now, usually if you have to use a mechanical clockwork robot to do your dirty work, your charm factor may get knocked down a peg, but it’s his big mouse delusion that lifts it back up.

Ratigan is a character in an identity crisis. He hates being reminded that he’s a rat, and thus his rat complex causes him to fly into a feral, bloodthirsty rage. He’s a big mouse! Call him a rat, you’ll be fed to his cat, Felicia. His ease in flipping from calm, brandy-sipping gentleman into a violent, impatient megalomaniac makes him unpredictable. Ratigan is all about grandiose speeches, lavish outfits, and embellished musical numbers. He operates from a place of mental stronghold. It’s why his thugs are willing to do his dirty work, and join in on the chorus of his song. His pure, unadulterated malice is what makes him terrifying. Not knowing when it will arrive is a mark of a super villain. Having the legendary flair of Price should have catapulted him into a top-tier villain, but alas.

4

Cruella de Vil

‘One Hundred and One Dalmatians’ (1961)

Image via Walt Disney Animation

Sometimes you can hear a picture the moment you see it. That’s the case when you see an image of the original Disney villain legend, Cruella de Vil (Betty Lou Gerson). You can imagine that overly affected voice saying, “Anita, darling.” The animated classic One Hundred and One Dalmatians tells the story of Dalmatians Pongo (Rod Taylor) and Perdita (Cate Bauer and Lisa Daniels) as they race to rescue their puppies after Cruella kidnaps them, intending to turn their luxurious spotted fur into coats. Though she may be the world’s most vile puppy killer, Cruella remains a charming presence in the Disney universe. Cruella is motivated by obsession. She is selfish yet glamorous, but nothing can make up for the cruelty inside.

Cruella is filled with razor-sharp wit, biting commentary, and a sense of theatricality that makes her stand out from the rest. Decked out in ravishing couture, she has a striking presence marked by her iconic black-and-white hair. Cruella commands attention. Not just from her appearance but from the way she carries herself. In a time when women were meant to be sweet and demure, Cruella is anything but. She’s fearless. In the animated film, at least, there’s no morally gray area. She’s wonderfully wicked, creating the blueprint for the pure evil archetype. Cruella is villainously charming in the story, but the charm she exuded across the screen made her one of the most deliciously intriguing characters. It’s why live-action iterations, played by Glenn Close and Emma Stone, have been equally iconic.

3

Hades

‘Hercules’ (1997)

Image via Walt Disney Animation

Many Disney fans have their obvious favorites from the Disney Renaissance, but one film that deserves a top spot is Hercules. Bringing Greek mythology to the screen, the film had every millennial who owned the D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths fascinated because it brought to lifethe gods we read about. While many of the great gods were given heroic, cinematic treatment, one god was given a smarmy presence: Hades. Voiced by James Woods, Hades comes off as a slick, fast-talking salesman of sorts. Rather than a menacing, brooding villain, Hades was sassy comic relief. Alongside his minions Pain and Panic (Bobcat Goldthwait and Matt Frewer), Hades ruled the Underworld with an ulterior motive: to overthrow his brother Zeus (Rip Torn) and rule Olympus by defeating his son, Hercules (Tate Donovan), by making him mortal.

Since he is Hades, yes, his fiery temper is the epitome of mood swings. But there’s more to him than that. Hades’ charm stems from the relatability of his role. If you pull back a moment, he’s just an underappreciated employee essentially doing a thankless job. Hades is set apart from many villains of his time by his surprisingly strong moral compass. When he makes a deal, he will honor it. Not necessarily a real win-win for all parties, when Hercules made a deal to sacrifice his strength in exchange for Megera’s (Susan Egan) freedom, Hades honored the terms without scheming or double-crossing. Perhaps that’s why he can get away with his flamboyance, pet names, and one-liners. Another villain without a solo song, Hades rises to the top because of the extravagance in his portrayal.

2

Dr. Facilier

‘The Princess and the Frog’ (2009)

Image via Walt Disney Animation

The 21st-century run of Disney films has been significant in that more time and care have been infused into the films’ cultural elements. Rather than relying on stereotypes and tropes, the Disney team ensured that every element was properly plotted and accurate. So, when The Princess and the Frog took the classic story and set it in 1920s New Orleans, it meant the world-building was handled properly. The story follows Tiana (Anika Noni Rose), a hardworking waitress who dreams of opening her own restaurant, who is turned into a frog after kissing the arrogant, amphibian-transformed Prince Naveen (Bruno Campos). Together, they embark on a magical bayou adventure to break the curse. With magic central to the story, the New Orleans setting opened the door to exploring voodoo through the lens of the evil voodoo witch doctor, Dr. Facilier (Keith David).

Also known as “The Shadow Man,” Facilier is a smooth-talking hustler. His name is derived from the French word “facile,” meaning easy—a perfectly named character. He has a magnetic showmanship, a suave aesthetic, and an ease for tempting desperate people into desperate deals. Including Naveen himself. While his charm is central to his exterior, inside, he’s a sinister, manipulative figure. But there’s a motive. Unlike his predecessors, who sought world domination, his ambition stems from his fight against a segregated society. The Princess and the Frog is a kids’ film at heart, but the themes within are quite profound and historic.

Perhaps the closest Disney villain to Facilier is The Little Mermaid‘s Ursula (Pat Carroll), but while they both offer hapless individuals easy shortcuts to their deepest desires, Ursula is all-out evil. Facilier has a facade to hide behind. He’s able to maintain that as he doesn’t do the dirty work himself. That is, he’s a master of the Zanatos Gambit, relying on tarot cards and voodoo magic to manipulate his pawns. Oh, and there’s also his shadow, which acts as an extension of his sinister side. There’s no true sidekick in his world; it’s just him. Between David’s smooth sound and the most iconic villain track in recent Disney memory, “Friends on the Other Side,” the 2D animated character reinvigorated our lust for genuine Disney villains.

1

Prince Hans

‘Frozen’ (2013)

We could have an entire dissertation about red flags in dating and how you literally should never, ever rush into things. Even if a prince shows up at your door to woo you. And if he’s in a rush, it’s probably because he’s not into you, but what you have to offer. You know, like an entire kingdom. The truth is, without that happening, we’d never have the mammoth hit and pop culture-altering film Frozen. Everything we ever thought we knew about handsome princes was gone out the window the moment Prince Hans (Santino Fontana) stepped onto the screen. The story of Frozen is about Anna (Kristen Bell), an overly optimistic princess, who teams up with an iceman named Kristoff (Jonathan Groff), his reindeer named Sven, and a sentient snowman named Olaf (Josh Gad), to find her estranged sister Elsa (Idina Menzel), who accidentally trapped the kingdom of Arendelle in an endless winter. In comes Hans, a calculating 13th-born prince of the Southern Isles, who hatches a plan to marry Anna to usurp the throne. Anything to be a king, right?

Hans was literally designed to look and act like a typical charming prince. And for first-time watchers of the film, Anna wasn’t the only one who was tricked. Don’t fool yourself, Hans got you too! With Hans around, love was literally an open door. The way that song is actually a rare hero-villain duet is brilliant. Anyway, the deliberate misdirection was meant to remind everyone not to rush into things, especially marrying someone you just met. Subverting the love at first sight tropes, Hans tapped into every vulnerability he could find in Anna. All he had to do was promise not to shut her out as her sister did, and she was putty in his hands.

Hans plays the long game. His con is not outward from the start. With his indiscretions hidden, Hans uses the kingdom’s needs to his advantage, stepping into the role of a competent, caring leader to earn the kingdom’s trust. And he did. With the greatest of ease. Having Anna on board, it was a seamless maneuver. Hans is absolutely beguiling. No wonder Anna was bewitched and bothered. He could finish her sandwiches! Revisionist history may say we saw the twist coming all along, but Hans was a perfectly crafted, charming villain that changed Disney princes forever.

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Frozen

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Release Date

November 27, 2013

Runtime

102 minutes

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Director

Chris Buck, Jennifer Lee

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Writers

Jennifer Lee

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America is turning the big 2-5-0, and what better way to do that than by staging a cage match between two sweaty men?

When President Donald Trump announced he would be hosting a UFC event at the White House near America’s birthday, many were skeptical it would actually happen.

Well, the UFC Freedom 250 event is happening, and even a last-minute lawsuit can’t stop it.

If you’re curious about who will be attending and where you can see it, Watch With Us has all the information you need to be informed and stream the event.

Related: New on Paramount+ in June 2026 — The Full List of Movies and TV Shows

Paramount+ isn’t as popular as rival streamers like Netflix and HBO Max, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t good. On the contrary, the platform has a pretty impressive library, and it will add even more compelling content in June. Among Paramount+’s highlights this month are The Agency season 2, with Michael Fassbender returning as a […]

When Is the UFC Freedom 250 Event?

The UFC Freedom 250 event, otherwise known as UFC at the White House, takes place on Sunday, June 14, at 8:00 p.m. EST/5:00 p.m. PST.

Where Can I Watch UFC Freedom 250?

You can watch UFC Freedom 250 on Paramount+.

Is There a Trailer I Can Watch?

Yes! You can stream the trailer above this entry.

Wait, Can I Watch UFC Freedom 250 on CBS or Pay-Per-View?

No. The event is streaming exclusively on Paramount+. Unlike some other UFC matches, it will not air on pay-per-view or any other platform.

I’m Not a Paramount+ Subscriber. How Much Does It Cost?

Paramount+ subscription plans start as low as $8.99 per month. With an extensive library that includes almost every Tom Cruise ever made, it’s worth it. Click here to find out all the subscription tiers and decide for yourself which one works best for you — and your wallet.

Who Else Is at the UFC Freedom 250 Event?

Zac Brown will be playing some of his country music hits during the event. His scheduled appearance has sparked some controversy, with the singer defending his participation by insisting he’s “there for the troops, man.”

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Who Is Fighting at the UFC at the White House Event?

Some of the UFC’s best fighters are participating in the UFC Freedom 250 event. The marquee match is probably between current interim champion Justin Gaethje and Ilia Topuria, who remains undefeated. Read below for a complete list of all the fights and the order in which they will take place:

• Lightweight championship: Ilia Topuira vs. Justin Gaethje
• Interim heavyweight championship: Alex Pereira vs. Ciryl Gane
• Bantamweight match: Sean O’Malley vs. Aiemann Zahabi
• Heavyweight match: Josh Hokit vs. Derrick Lewis
• Lightweight match: Mauricio Ruffy vs. Michael Chandler
• Middleweight match: Bo Nickal vs. Kyle Daukaus
• Featherweight match: Diego Lopes vs. Steve Garcia

Where Is UFC Freedom 250 Taking Place?

Believe it or not, it’s taking place on the front lawn of the White House. A makeshift arena has been built to host all the matches and guests.

The historical genre is awash with countless films and TV shows centered on World War II. The most tragic and bloody war in human history, unfortunately, provides the inspiration for stories — both true and fictional — that constantly enthrall us. When someone thinks of a classic World War II movie or show, they’ll likely mention Saving Private Ryan, Schindler’s List, Dunkirk, Patton, or recent entries such as Brendan Fraser‘s Pressure. However, one film, Cillian Murphy‘s underrated 2016 thriller Anthropoid, gets left off of many lists.

What Is ‘Anthropoid’ About?

Anthropoid tells the story of Operation Anthropoid, the plot by the British special forces and operatives from the Czechoslovak resistance to assassinate high-ranking German general Reinhard Heydrich. One of the principal architects of the Holocaust and a high-ranking Nazi official, Heydrich was high on the hit list of the Allies and various resistance groups who fought against the German occupation. The film adaptation of the events sees Murphy, alongside Jamie Dornan, portray Jozef Gabčík and Jan Kubiš, respectively. The two men were resistance fighters and former Czechoslovak soldiers sent by their government in exile back to Prague to carry out the assassination. Given that most World War II movies tell stories of Allied men and women, the fact that Anthropoid follows some of the unknown resistance fighters who also helped win the war — and does so in such a thrilling way — makes it worth your attention.

‘Anthropoid’ Tells a WWII Story You May Not Be Familiar With

Anthropoid avoids some of the usual trappings of war films, centering not on larger-than-life heroes undertaking some valiant mission for freedom. While their mission serves the Allies’ goal of freeing Europe from the Nazis, this operation involves assassination and guerrilla tactics. This is a fight over a knife in the mud, and not an epic, large-scale, sweeping battle with clearly defined sides. Additionally, except for Gabčík and Kubiš, many of the people involved in the operation were ordinary people fighting a brutal oppressor and who bravely stood against the tide of fascism. The courage of these people feels authentic because it’s rooted in fear and uncertainty, rather than cinematic invincibility.

Many World War II movies and shows center on battles such as D-Day, the Battle of the Bulge, or the Battle of Stalingrad, but the actions of ordinary heroes are too often overlooked. This is not the case with Anthropoid, as it sheds light on those who gave everything for their homes and families. The stakes are enormous in these events, and you can feel that tension in this film.

One of the biggest dilemmas facing the resistance fighters is the idea that if they are successful in their mission and do kill Heydrich, then the Nazis will simply replace him, and the reprisals will be swift and deadly. Known as one of the most sinister men in the Nazi regime and the “Butcher of Prague,” Heydrich ruled the city with an iron fist, with killings and disappearances being commonplace. It is here that the true gravity of their mission is felt on screen, and the tension is at its highest. It is not often that a dilemma arises in which leaving a true monster in place can be seen as the better option, but the discussion in the film gives the viewer something to consider.

Cillian Murphy Completely Steals the Show in ‘Anthropoid’

Image Via Icon Film Distribution

It’s no secret how talented of an actor Cillian Murphy is. His work in Oppenheimer was sublime, and his Academy Award-winning performance was more than earned. In Anthropoid, however, Murphy harkens back to his Peaky Blinders character Tommy Shelby, embracing the subterfuge and coldness necessary to play someone like Jozef Gabčík. He adopts the same gravely tone that fans of Peaky Blinders are familiar with, but with the persona of someone who seeks to defeat his enemies for a greater purpose than his own.

Murphy’s ability to convey raw emotion through subtle expressions and quiet intensity is on full display here. He perfectly captures the burden that is placed on someone who leads a mission that could cost him and an entire city everything. Murphy might be known best for his performances in Peaky Blinders, Oppenheimer, and The Dark Knight trilogy, but he is at the very top of his game here.

‘Anthropoid’ Prioritizes Emotion Over Action

Image via Falcon

It’s certainly not the first World War II movie to portray events that not many people know about. However, in modern cinema where spectacle is valued over substance, Anthropoid values the humanity behind the actions of those involved rather than lean on the action. This isn’t to say that the film lacks action, but it is never the focus. This movie stands out as a thoughtful, intelligent, and deeply human portrayal of heroism in the face of impossible odds.

Ultimately, the film deserves far more recognition than it has received. While it is not perfect, it is a gripping historical thriller, and a powerful tribute to those who gave all in the service of others. Combining outstanding performances with relentless tension, the movie leaves a genuine emotional impact that lingers long after the credits roll.

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Release Date

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August 12, 2016

Runtime

120 minutes

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Director

Sean Ellis

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