Entertainment
Sandra Bullock Reveals What Forced Her to Join Social Media
Sandra Bullock joined social media in 2026, starting with a playful post about the upcoming “Practical Magic 2.” However, in a recent interview, the Oscar-winning actress opened up about the true reason she reversed course on her earlier comments about social media, revealing that she did so to combat scammers.
Bullock appeared on the “Smartless” podcast in August 2026 and discussed a wealth of topics. However, during the conversation, the topic of her social media presence came up, with the actress discussing her complicated relationship with the medium before finally launching an Instagram account.
She stated, “About a year and a half ago, I had to because there were people that were using my name and likeness to scam money out of people. My sister would have people reaching out to her saying, ‘Your sister took thousands of dollars from me.’”
Bullock continued, “The harm that it was causing families, going ‘We don’t know how to tell this person it’s fake,’ and I would have people call them saying ‘It’s fake, it’s not real.”
Bullock continued discussing her aversion to social media, stating that, despite having projects to promote, she had no desire to join. According to her, “I had no intention of ever going on social media. It was never my calling.”
From there, she opened up about the impact of launching her Instagram, noting that it didn’t fully prevent scammers from using her likeness. She shared, “And then once I did that, it stopped a little bit, but it doesn’t really. It’s just never-ending.”
Bullock’s comments come after she issued a warning to fans in February 2025 about potential scams and safety concerns. Per PEOPLE, she said, “My family’s safety, as well as the innocent people being taken advantage of, is my deep concern, and there will be a time when I will comment more, but for now our focus is helping law enforcement handle this matter.”
The “Practical Magic 2” star continued, “Please be aware that I do not participate in any form of social media. Any accounts pretending to be me or anyone associated with me are fake accounts and have been created for financial gain or to exploit people around me.”
It was also around that time that Bullock’s sister, Gesine Bullock-Prado, took to social media to highlight how much time she spends reporting scammers impersonating the “Speed” star.
Much Of Sandra Bullock’s Instagram Account Has Been Mostly Devoted To Her Work
Bullock’s first Instagram post arrived on the platform on April 14. In it, she could be seen recreating the midnight margaritas scene from “Practical Magic.” She captioned the post, “Midnight somewhere…” Since then, she’s used the platform to promote the highly anticipated sequel, including sharing the trailer on April 20. Additionally, the account contains several posts with footage featuring her costar, Nicole Kidman.
Bullock has also made more personal posts on the platform, including celebrating Father’s Day and Sister’s Day. Her most recent post came on August 18, featuring several candid shots. She added the caption, “Friends, family, fun, fishes, furries, aaaand work.”
‘Practical Magic 2’ Comes Out In September
Warner Bros. announced in June 2024 that “Practical Magic 2” was in development following the success of the original 1998 film. After that, production began in July 2025, with the cast and crew filming at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden in Hertfordshire, England. They wrapped the movie in September 2025.
Now, the long-awaited movie is set to arrive in North American theaters on September 11. In addition to Bullock and Kidman, the Susanne Bier-directed sequel stars Dianne West, Stockard Channing, Joey King, and Lee Pace.
Sandra Bullock And Nicole Kidman Previously Teased The New Movie
According to Deadline, Bullock and Kidman made an appearance at 2026 CinemaCon. While at the convention, Bullock discussed returning for the film, saying it “felt like we came back to a home that we once lived in.”
Regarding what fans can expect, she teased, “We rebuilt the original house on the cliff. We filled that house with many old and new characters that you’ll love and brought Alice Hoffman’s ‘Book of Magic’ to life.”
Kidman chimed in, adding, “Home is what this is, and getting to return to these characters that have been so loved and so shared, it really has been magical. And being back together, it just clicked.”
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Entertainment
You Have Exactly 1 Week to Watch Apple TV’s Most Exciting Sci-Fi Series Before Season 2
Blake Crouch’s thrilling sci-fi series Dark Matter follows Professor Jason Dessen, played by Joel Edgerton, after his mysterious and inexplicable disappearance. Unbeknownst to those in his waking life, Jason is trapped in a labyrinth of unending variants of his own life. Dessen embarks on a harrowing journey as he attempts to decipher this living nightmare from his true reality. Plus, not to mention, he commonly must brush up against perhaps the most terrifying antagonist one can imagine: himself. This mind-melting sci-fi masterwork received uproarious praise, and as season 2 approaches, fans are growing eager for its return to Apple TV on August 28th.
To state it plainly, the people love Dark Matter, and for good reason! Most notably, applause has been extended to each respective lead. Joel Edgerton and Jennifer Connelly, who plays Daniela Dessen, have been doted upon, most notably for their grounding presence in this effervescent labyrinthine dreamscape. While other shows that require a similar suspension of disbelief, such as Stranger Things, fell flat with critics in its later season for the floaty, nonsense plot and similarly lackluster performances, Dark Matter is made followable by the cast’s acting chops.
What to Expect from Season Two of ‘Dark Matter’
To understand where the show is going, one must first remember where Season One left off. In short, the ending can be most accurately summarized by two events: a reunion and a choice. After an exhaustive journey, the real Jason proves his rightful identity to Daniela and his son, Charlie, played by Oakes Fegley. However, this loving embrace is cut short when dozens upon dozens of varying versions of Jason converge on one plane, creating a hair-raising standoff. Thus, all at once, they realize they will never be able to truly return to their once peaceful life, and instead make the game-time decision to step back into the Box. This edge-of-your-seat finale leaves several loose ends to be tied, as all the greats tend to. Most notably, what exactly is going to happen to the many Jasons left behind? And what awaits the Dessens in this Pandora’s Box? And can the audience really trust the real Jason?
In terms of what can be expected from Season 2, so far it appears that while the family explores what seems to be a utopia, Jason is being hunted. And this time, it isn’t by himself. Thirteen Jasons appear in body bags, leaving just him as a target for what exactly isn’t clear. As for Daniela, pushed right to her edge, this season seems to particularly explore her growing paranoia and rightful distrust of her husband. Or at least what appears to be her husband. The story culminates with an enormous battle between the family, their allies, and the all-powerful box. Will this lead to their ultimate undoing? Or will it finally put this winding story to rest? Unfortunately for the Dessen family, it appears the former is more likely.
In summary, the highly anticipated second season of ‘Dark Matter’ is just around the corner. With so much to unfold and peel back, this season sounds like it’ll be jam-packed with the same thrilling action and evocative plot that gripped audiences initially. As stated by Edgerton, in an interview with Collider, the series that once closely followed the narrative it adapted from may now diverge down a few different avenues. With just one week left of the two-year hiatus, this show is back with a vengeance, and expectations are impossibly high for the multiversal mind-bender. Here’s to hoping ‘Dark Matter’ can stick the landing.
- Release Date
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May 7, 2024
- Network
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Apple TV+
- Directors
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Jakob Verbruggen, Alik Sakharov, Roxann Dawson, Logan George
- Writers
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Blake Crouch
The one show that rivals all the best gangster movies in history, if you’re talking about the whole crime/drama genre, would have to be The Sopranos. It feels a bit silly to even introduce it at this point, much like how talking about Goodfellas or The Godfather is difficult to do, when so many words have already been said, but hey… that’s a testament to something being iconic and widely discussed.
The Sopranos has well and truly earned all that praise, functioning incredibly well as a series about the mob, family conflict, and psychology/therapy, all at once. Tonally, it’s all over the place, but never messy, since at its best, The Sopranos can be funnier, more dramatic, or even more frightening than just about anything else TV-wise. Its fourth season was a little slow-paced and maybe even challenging, but the show’s standards, but didn’t really contain any truly bad episodes, and some of the show’s best hours were featured here, in any event. All 13 episodes of season 4 of The Sopranos are ranked below, starting with the fairly good and ending with the absolutely incredible.
13
“Christopher” (Episode 3)
“Christopher” is the worst episode of the series, to be brutally honest. It’s not being criticized here because it’s about race-related issues, touching on anti-Columbus Day protests and anti-Italian sentiments. It’s more the case that these topics are handled quite clunkily, with a good deal of dialogue throughout not really feeling natural, and it makes The Sopranos suddenly feel weirdly preachy.
These are things that could be explored without things feeling preachy, but “Christopher” doesn’t manage that. It feels out of step with so much of the series, and all the episodes where ridiculous things might happen, but you still can believe that these characters are real and consistent (at least within the world the show builds). It’s a testament to how good The Sopranos is, though, that even “Christopher” has a couple of great moments. Bobby’s grief here, in a subplot about the death of his wife, is powerfully done and important going forward, and Christopher’s misunderstanding of Tony’s rant about Gary Cooper is pretty incredible (and one of many moments from the show that’s become an enduring meme).
12
“Pie-O-My” (Episode 5)
Season 4 can feel a little slow the first time you watch the show, but on a rewatch, it feels much richer and more meaningful. The only episode of the season that’s worse on a rewatch is the aforementioned “Christopher.” This isn’t a great comparison, but if you can liken seasons 2 and 5 of The Sopranos to Breaking Bad, with intensity and pacing, then season 4 is like, comparatively, its Better Call Saul. Or maybe it’s a grower in the way Twin Peaks: The Return was, compared to the more immediate first two seasons of Twin Peaks.
That’s all to say that “Pie-O-My” is much better than “Christopher,” even if it’s also not ranked particularly high here. That’s also an indication that the territory of good-but-flawed episodes of The Sopranos is now being moved on from. “Pie-O-My” is good, with Tony and Ralph clashing over the titular horse being important going forward, and Bobby having a compelling subplot here, dealing with grief over his recently deceased wife. It’s not quite a stand-out episode, but it’s harder for an episode to stand out when it belongs to a series as packed with legendary episodes as The Sopranos is.
11
“Watching Too Much Television” (Episode 7)
“Watching Too Much Television” (and the episode that followed it), and its subsequent episode, proved a little slow. It doesn’t stick out too badly, though, owing to how season 4 is a bit more laidback on a narrative front, in contrast to the first two seasons with Tony sort of at war with the older generation (Livia and Junior), and the final two seasons being largely about Tony at war with Phil Leotardo, who wouldn’t enter the picture until season 5.
“Watching Too Much Television,” like many episodes in season 4, is still very interesting for what it says about the characters, and that side of the show is honestly more compelling than the “narrative” (so to speak) a good deal of the time. Tony’s hypocrisy and jealousy in this episode prove to be the most memorable and important part, with him eventually snapping and lashing out at an associate who’s having a relationship with one of Tony’s ex-mistresses. Elsewhere, most of the other threads of the season (Paulie feeling disconnected from Tony, Adriana grappling with being an informant, Furio wanting to be with Carmela, etc.) creep forward slowly but surely.
10
“Mergers and Acquisitions” (Episode 8)
Right after all the drama with Tony and one of his ex-mistresses, he goes right back into pining for another woman who’s just his type, and she’s a new girlfriend of Ralphie’s. He then starts having an affair with this woman, named Valentina, and it drives home even more how ridiculous his outburst at the end of the previous episode was.
This eighth episode is important for the rest of the season, since events transpire (or events expire, as Little Carmine might say) in episode 9 that make the possibility of continuing to see Valentina even easier, for Tony, living in a post-Ralphie world and all. But then the cheating here is also significant for the final episode of season 4, which has Tony and Carmela clashing in a big way because of all his infidelity. Both those episodes are a good deal better than the admittedly still pretty good “Mergers and Acquisitions,” though, so more on them later.
9
“For All Debts Public and Private” (Episode 1)
The best scene in “For All Debts Public and Private” is Tony and Bobby conversing at a diner, and the dialogue following the latter saying, “You know, Quasimodo predicted all this.” There is another storyline in this episode that’s solid, albeit more so after watching The Many Saints of Newark, since it concerns Christopher seemingly getting revenge on a man who purportedly killed his father, Dickie Moltisanti (who was at the center of that 2021 prequel movie).
Or at least knowledge of that movie colors and complicates what Christopher goes through here. Otherwise, “For All Debts Public and Private” is another pretty good episode of The Sopranos. A little slow, like some of these season openers tend to be, and maybe you can also criticize it for not really setting up a clear direction for season 4. That’s intentional, in hindsight, given season 4’s somewhat looser feel, but in the moment, it does make this episode feel a bit rambling/listless.
8
“No Show” (Episode 2)
And now, conveniently, following right on from the first of the season’s episodes, here’s the second episode of the fourth season. So much of the drama in season 4 revolves around a joke Ralphie makes about Johnny Sack’s wife, Ginny, and said joke happens in “No Show.” It’s not automatically low-stakes, since Ralphie is already on thin ice with a lot of people after the events of season 3 (see “University,” for example), but it does feel like an eventually big deal was pretty small, at least initially.
Christopher also gets to be a general mess in this episode, hitting on Adriana’s friend, who’s actually an undercover FBI agent, and then the whole ordeal leads to the agent revealing her identity to Adriana. From there, Adriana is subsequently made an informant for the FBI, threatened with a drug possession charge if she doesn’t comply. So, on those two fronts, things are heating up, albeit slowly, which is appropriate for this slow-burn fourth season.
7
“Eloise” (Episode 12)
The biggest shake-up to the status quo, provided by “Eloise,” is that it features the departure of Furio, who’d been a pretty consistent presence in the series since being introduced in season 2. Furio honestly doesn’t do a ton outside of causing some turmoil with his almost-affair with Carmela, which heats up throughout season 4, and gets dangerous in “Eloise,” prompting Furio to retreat back to Italy.
It’s a bit anticlimactic, but having Furio be one of a handful of penultimate episode casualties might well have felt more forced. The middle ground would’ve probably been to bring him back in some capacity during the last two seasons, to give actual closure, but The Sopranos never played by anyone’s rules but its own, so farewell, Furio. “Eloise” is, other than that, pretty light on drama and conflict, but it set the stage decently enough for what ended up being a great season finale. It’s also worth noting that penultimate episodes for other seasons of The Sopranos are usually a little more memorable than this (see seasons 2, 5, and 6 especially).
6
“Everybody Hurts” (Episode 6)
Hey, look at that: episode 6 at number 6. The most intense hurting in “Everybody Hurts” probably comes from the revelation that Gloria, with whom Tony had a fling in season 3, has taken her own life. Her last appearance in the show, not counting dream sequences, was in that third season, and the death happening suddenly and off-screen works in making viewers feel just as caught off-guard as Tony is, when Carmela tells him about Gloria (she, however, doesn’t know Tony knew Gloria to that extent).
Artie’s also struggling a lot in this episode, and in his typically Artie way, those struggles are almost darkly funny, and then also just quite sad (though he doesn’t succeed in trying to end his life, unlike Gloria). Also, Paul Dano is in this episode a little, joining Lady Gaga (who showed up briefly in season 3) as another then-unknown – but soon-to-be-famous – actor who showed up because of an A.J.-related storyline in The Sopranos.
5
“Calling All Cars” (Episode 11)
There’s an argument to be made that “Calling All Cars” is the scariest episode of The Sopranos, just because of some of the dream imagery here, with Tony’s dreams in this particular episode being especially concerned with death. It’s a way for some of the more recently deceased characters in the show to temporarily return, since both Gloria and Ralphie show up here.
Livia does, too, or at least seems to, with that ambiguity – and her shadowy appearance – proving quite terrifying. The Sopranos usually nailed the feeling of being in an unpleasant or confusing dream better than just about any other show or movie out there, and “Calling All Cars” is yet another indication of that. The rest of the episode is typically strong stuff for the show, but it’s ultimately the dream-focused parts that stand out here specifically.
4
“The Weight” (Episode 4)
“The Weight” is about a weight-related joke that Ralphie made earlier in season 4, because that’s just Ralphie being Ralphie for you. That joke starts to have more dramatic consequences here, and really, the most intense mob-related drama comes about, in this season, because of that joke, and how Johnny Sack wants to strike back at Ralphie for it.
This episode also gives screen time to Ginny, Johnny Sack’s wife, showcasing some of her struggles with her weight in a way that is humanizing and compassionate, all the while also showing Johnny’s dedication to her that goes some way toward making him one of the better/more honorable gangsters in the show. The episode does have some heart to it, and Johnny and Ginny honestly have one of the better and healthier relationships throughout the seasons they’re in, compared to almost all other couples on the show.
Nolan Wells‘ mother, Christine Wonsley, marked the late teenager’s 19th birthday with a heartfelt message shared on Facebook on Wednesday, August 19. Nolan was found dead in the water near Horn Island in Jackson County, Mississippi, on Monday, July 6. He’d been reported missing two days earlier after he didn’t return from a Fourth of July boating trip with friends.
RELATED: Teens Who Traveled With Nolan Wells Reportedly Launch Search Of Horn Island As Ben Crump Reacts To Them Hiring Trump Attorney
Nolan Wells’ Mother Shares 19th Birthday Message To Her Son
Nolan Wells’ mother, Christine Wonsley, shared a heavenly 19th birthday message to her son on Facebook as she continues searching for answers about his untimely death.
Wonsley’s post for her son’s birthday also included photographs of Nolan and his family throughout the years. Additionally, the message was shared with the song ‘Eternal Sunshine’ by Jhené Aiko.
“Today you are 19 Nono! There are so many things we want to say but we will keep it simple,” she wrote. “As we sit here and reflect on what an amazing kiddo you grew up to be, we can’t help but to feel blessed, honored, proud, but most of all thankful. Thankful we were able to experience a glimpse of God’s love in human form. Although you are no longer physically here with us, we will always celebrate you and the legacy you have left for us to protect. You have taught us so much about life and how everyday is a blessing and how we have to do better at just living in the moment. Thank you for being the best son, brother, grandson, nephew, and friend anyone could ever ask for. Thank you for bringing joy, laughter and real happiness to us each and every day. You are truly our angel. Raising you has been an absolute joy and honor. You will be missed every second of everyday and you will never be forgotten our sweet sonshine. Happy Heavenly 19th Birthday Nono. Remember don’t eat too much Oreo cake and hug Grandma for us. Mahal na mahal ka namin, aming pinakamamahal na anak at kapatid. (Taglog to English translation: We love you our beloved son and brother) Love, Mom, Dad, Siblings, Louis, Ling and Family
The family hired civil rights attorney Ben Crump after local authorities said they didn’t suspect foul play, despite contradictions within Nolan’s friend group. The NAACP also joined the investigation on August 17, according to a statement from the organization’s general counsel, Kristen Clarke, per Reuters.
“We’re taking up this fight to search for truth and transparency surrounding the death of Nolan Wells,” reads the statement.
Christine Wonsley Asked Folks To Keep Their Negative Comments
Wonsley ended her post by asking people not to leave negative comments. The grieving mother has been attacked online simply for trying to find out what happened to her baby.
“*KEEP NEGATIVE COMMENTS TO YOURSELVES,” she wrote. “Remember Nolan is MY & ELMORE’S SON who WE LOST. #JusticeForNolanWells #IStandWithNolan.”
Not only was Wonsley recently trolled online, but an anonymous complaint was also filed against her with the Mississippi Board of Nursing, and a professional misconduct investigation was opened.
The investigation was later closed. However, Wonsley’s workplace has been flooded with negative reviews since her son’s death.
Wonsley’s Message Touched Hearts On Facebook
Thousands of people responded with support for Wonsley and her heartbroken family after Nolan’s 19th birthday message was shared on TSR’s Instagram page.
@worldofsimone added, “She’s such a light, ugh the fact she is still speaking positivity I know she was a great mom. 😔.”
User @asialynn22 wrote, “My heart breaks for her so bad. No mother should have to go thru this.
🙏🏾.”
User @kelli_bundi_ wrote, “This is so heartbreaking! That baby deserved to be alive and celebrating his day surrounded by his loved ones! I can’t even fathom their feelings!! 🥺🥺🥺🥺.”
@kingm3cyn wrote, “😢💔 this is so unfair.”
@fashion_junkee_ added, “So sad and unfair. The truth will come out ! Justice for Nolan Wells! 😢🙏🏾🙏🏾.”
User @licityy__ noted a sad truth. “The fact that she had to tell people ‘no negative comments’ is sad…”
@_kingmookie wrote, “Happy birthday young man. The wrath of God has already been written! Vengeance is his , he will repay. 🤍🕊️.”
User@thefemalegodd replied, “I pray his spirit unfold this entire situation expose everything happy birthday to you❤️.”
@lucretia5715 added, “😢NO JUSTICE NO PEACE.”
In addition, Wonsley also shared footage on Instagram of her singing Happy Birthday to her Nono as she celebrated his life, and it is heart-wrenching.
RELATED: Nolan Wells’ Mom Responds To Comments From His Friends As Congressional Black Caucus Requests DOJ Open Separate Investigation
What Do You Think Roomies?
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If you’re bored with sneakers, you’re not alone. There’s a reason the streets of New York City, Los Angeles and London are overflowing with polished flats, which are a classy and equally versatile alternative. We found 13 luxe-looking pairs that deliver the comfort of sneakers, and seriously, you’ll wish you found them sooner.
These timeless flats make any outfit appear high-end, whether you wear them with dresses, trousers, jeans or even sweats. Nobody will ever guess that they’re so comfortable — or that prices start at only $12. Read on to see our favorites from brands like Vionic, Skechers, Toms and more!
13 Flats That Feel Like Sneakers — From $12
1. Our Favorite: Gold is optional, but it gives these metallic ballet flats an old money edge. Shoppers say you can comfortably walk miles in these.
2. Ruby Red: Make a statement in these plush Mary Jane flats that elevate your look, provide breathability and feel soft on the skin, thanks to the fine knit material.
3. Celeb-Approved: We spotted Kate Hudson wearing this jelly flats style with a dress on vacation, and we’re doing the same for every occasion on our agenda.
4. Sassy Slingbacks: Channel rich mom vibes without even trying in these suede slingback flats. They make summer-to-fall the most stylish time yet.
5. Leopard Print: Rich moms are leaning heavily into leopard print, so it only makes sense to get it on sleek Mary Janes.
Even as fashion writers, it’s hard keeping up with the ever-changing denim trends. They can be downright confusing, even to Us! When in doubt, we turn to celebrities, rich moms and fashionistas on the streets of New York and Los Angeles. And this year, they’re all in agreement on these denim styles. If you ask […]
6. One of a Kind: Yes, the memory foam insole is great, but so is the one-of-a-kind scrunched design that keeps these sparkly wonders secure.
7. Classy Act: You can’t go wrong with these camel-colored Vionic flats that put the class in classic. We adore the metal aglets.
8. Pretty Pointed: When you want to feel confident, opt for these poised pointy knit flats that carry you from brunches to boardrooms.
9. Secretly Skechers: The brand’s collection has grown far beyond its chunky dad shoe style, as seen from these minimal Mary Jane flats. They’re dainty, elevated and so comfy.
10. Trendy Toms: We’re a little (a lot) obsessed with these cutout flats that give basic a charming twist. The brand’s signature CloudBound foam is just a bonus.
11. Luxe Alert: Between the cute bow, pointed toe and textured material, it’s hard to believe these staple slip-ons are only $12.
12. So Splurge-Worthy: Simple and timeless, these square-toe Mary Janes will anchor your wardrobe for seasons to come. Just ask the hundreds of happy reviewers.
13. Must-Have Hybrid: If you can’t decide between loafers and flats, opt for these hybrid shoes that combine two of the most elegant looks in one.
UsNow Summer Sale Alert: These Chic Fashion Finds are over 30% off – Plus Free Shipping
Welcome to summer with our biggest sale of the year. This summer’s chicest dresses, tops and swimsuits are all over 30% + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they’re gone.
Outer Banks‘ final season teased the idea of bringing JJ back from the dead — but did Rudy Pankow actually return to the show?
During season 5, which premiered on Thursday, August 20, Kiara (Madison Bailey) struggled to cope with JJ’s loss. She immediately jumped at the idea of getting a crown that was rumored to resurrect people — despite the rest of the Pogues questioning the chance JJ would actually return.
The series concluded with Kiara having a powerful moment where she reflected on her most meaningful moments with JJ. She took that as a sign from her late boyfriend that she needed to remember their connection while still moving on in the present day.
Outer Banks also paid tribute to JJ by having Sarah (Madelyn Cline) and John B. (Chase Stokes) name their first child after JJ. Pankow, for his part, didn’t reprise the role of JJ.
The show originally received backlash in season 4 when Pankow’s departure was confirmed despite the writing team claiming it was always the plan to kill off the fan-favorite character.
“It’s been kind of lurking in his DNA from the beginning. He’s really a tragic figure, and the idea of mortality, and you only have a finite window — it’s also a theme of the show,” executive producer Jonas Pate told The Hollywood Reporter in November 2024. “It’s something John B. has talked about from the first season. So believe it or not, this is something that was always sort of baked in the cake, and we just wanted to tell the story as elegantly and interestingly as possible.”
Austin North, Fiona Palomo, Madelyn Cline, Chase Stokes, Madison Bailey, Drew Starkey, Carlacia Grant, Jonathan Daviss, and Rudy Pankow. JC Olivera/Getty Images
After JJ’s death, the show’s creators explained their decision to kill off a Pogue.
“The overarching plan was to begin with just some kids who wanted to have a good time all the time, and take them on a whole journey,” Shannon Burke told Deadline in November 2024. “One of them was going to end up dying, and pretty early on, we knew that was going to be JJ; he’s the most reckless. He is also the most beloved and, in one way, the most sacrificing and the most risk-taking. And this was going to be JJ’s year.”
He continued: “The kids, they’re getting older. We wanted to begin in a place of innocence and then go to a place that at least one point to go is really dark for them, and then have them come out of it. That’s the overarching plan for the show. It was always JJ that was going to be, we just weren’t sure how we were going to play it.”
Viewers subsequently started to question whether Pankow’s exit came as a result of a rumored rift between him and the cast. However, Pankow, 28, has said that he thinks JJ’s death was meant to move the story along.
“When I first found out JJ was gonna risk it all and not make it, I understood it. And the risks got bigger and bigger, and the stakes got higher and higher,” he explained to Netflix’s Tudum that same month. “His death really does set up the future of OBX with the question, what is worth it? And when someone that close to you is gone, how do you navigate that?”
Outer Banks is currently streaming on Netflix.
Batman and Superman have spent decades establishing themselves as one of the most important partnerships in the DC Universe. The World’s Finest might approach superheroics from very different perspectives, but when everything goes wrong, Bruce Wayne and Clark Kent know they can depend on each other. That trust has survived mind control, alternate universes, secret identities, and enough apocalyptic events to make practically any other friendship impossible.
But knowing Superman better than almost anyone else also puts Batman in a uniquely difficult position when Clark becomes the suspect instead of the hero. Bruce is supposed to follow the evidence wherever it leads, even when he desperately wants that evidence to point somewhere else. That’s exactly the problem waiting for him in an upcoming issue of Detective Comics, where one of Batman’s closest friends is about to become the center of a murder investigation.
Detective Comics #1115, written by Tom Taylor with art by Mikel Janín, will see Clark Kent accused of murder and incarcerated while awaiting trial. Batman sets out to clear his friend’s name, but DC Comics’ preview teases a particularly nasty complication: the evidence Bruce discovers isn’t proving Clark’s innocence. It’s making him look even more guilty.
Batman Has To Prove Superman Isn’t a Killer in ‘Detective Comics #1115’
That’s a fascinating problem to hand the World’s Greatest Detective. Batman obviously knows Clark Kent isn’t someone who goes around murdering people, but Bruce can’t simply declare his best friend innocent and call the investigation finished. If the physical evidence continues pointing toward Clark, Batman will have to determine how someone managed to construct such a convincing case against a man he believes could never have committed the crime.
There is also the rather enormous question of how Clark Kent ends up behind bars in the first place. Superman could leave practically any conventional prison whenever he wanted, meaning Clark’s decision to remain incarcerated would seemingly require him to trust both the legal process and Batman to uncover the truth. The preview doesn’t reveal the identity of the victim or explain exactly what evidence has implicated Clark, leaving plenty of mystery surrounding the new arc.
DC is already promising significant consequences, describing the case as one that could redefine the relationship between Batman and Superman. That’s a pretty enormous promise for two characters whose friendship has survived nearly everything the DC Universe can throw at them. We’ll find out whether Batman can prove Superman’s innocence when Detective Comics #1115 arrives on November 18, 2026.
Stay tuned at Collider for more.
Life after a blockbuster franchise does not always come with financial security, and Jessie Cave is making that clear.
The actress, best known to “Harry Potter” fans for playing Lavender Brown in the film series, is opening up about the difficult circumstances that pushed her toward OnlyFans.
While many assume actors from major franchises enjoy lifelong wealth, Cave revealed that reality looked very different behind the scenes as she worked to support her family and navigate the challenges of parenthood.
For years, Cave managed to piece together enough work to support herself, but the 39-year-old revealed that things became increasingly difficult as opportunities slowed and expenses continued to grow.
Speaking on the British daytime show “This Morning,” Cave admitted that discussing her financial situation publicly was uncomfortable, especially because of the assumptions people made about former “Harry Potter” stars.
“People just assume I’m rich and I have loads of money, but no, I don’t,” she explained, adding that smaller acting roles after the fantasy franchise were not enough to provide long-term financial stability.
Cave also acknowledged that turning to OF felt “embarrassing,” but said practical realities influenced her decision. She noted that childcare costs made pursuing traditional work more complicated.
“It was embarrassing because, on a certain level, I would have really liked to get a job, but you know what it’s like [when] you have kids … it costs so much for childcare,” she said.
Cave described her OF venture as a “weird job,” but added that she “couldn’t really have done anything else” while raising her family. Looking back on her career, she explained that she had managed to stay financially afloat for nearly two decades before reaching a breaking point.
Cave Opens Up About The Surprising Income Behind Her OF Success
A few days ago, Jessie Cave revealed just how dramatically her finances changed after joining OnlyFans, admitting the decision initially left her feeling embarrassed despite the platform becoming her most lucrative source of income.
As The Blast reported, the “Harry Potter” actress shared that she had “earned more, easily than my entire acting career within one year” on OF than during her entire acting career, describing the income as “life-changing.”
According to the adult content creator, she earned as much as £15,000 ($20,488) in a single day and had credited the platform with helping stabilize her family’s finances.
While she acknowledged feeling uncomfortable about the stigma surrounding OF, she said the experience boosted her confidence and allowed her to continue pursuing creative projects.
Jessie Cave Calls Breast Surgery A ‘Business Decision’ After OF Success
Earlier this month, Cave revealed that the financial success she found on OF ultimately led her to make a major personal decision: undergoing breast augmentation.
Speaking to The Times, the cartoonist described the procedure as a “business decision,” explaining that her earnings from the subscription platform gave her the financial freedom to pursue it.
Cave acknowledged that while her hair-focused content had become unexpectedly lucrative, she was also aware that its appeal might not last forever.
“My hair can only do so much,” she said while discussing the realities of maintaining subscriber interest. Cave also revealed that she allowed her followers to weigh in on aspects of the procedure, including discussions about size.
Beyond the business aspect, the actress said the surgery came after years of pregnancy and breastfeeding, adding that she felt ready for a change and wanted to reclaim a sense of ownership over her body.
Cave Questions Convention’s Decision To Exclude Her
While OnlyFans transformed Jessie Cave’s finances, she said the platform also came with an unexpected professional setback.
Writing on Substack in 2025, Cave noted that she learned she would not be appearing at a “Harry Potter” event after organizers discovered she was creating content on OF.
According to her, the explanation she received was that the convention was a “family show” and that “OnlyFans is affiliated with p-rn.”
The reasoning left her stunned. “This was baffling to me,” the star wrote, arguing that many actors who regularly attended conventions had appeared in projects featuring nudity or sex scenes.
Cave also suggested that the decision reflected a broader stigma attached to OF rather than the content she actually produced.
Although she admitted the rejection initially surprised her, she ultimately viewed it as a sign that her connection to the franchise was naturally evolving. “I am not upset about the prospect of no more Harry Potter conventions,” she wrote, adding, “There’s going to be a new cast now and it’s a different time.”
Jessie Cave Turned Her OF Journey Into A New Stage Show
Rather than keeping her unconventional career path separate from her creative work, Cave has transformed the experience into a new live performance.
Earlier this month, she debuted “Only Work (in Progress)” at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, a show inspired by her year on OF and the unexpected ways it changed her life.
According to the production’s description, Cave uses the performance to explore what creating “long hair content” has done to her confidence, finances and sense of self.
The show also examines the unusual relationship between content creators and subscribers, while touching on themes of fetishism, financial domination and the realities of earning a living in today’s entertainment industry.
The project allows Cave to combine the personal and professional aspects of her recent journey, turning a chapter that began as a financial necessity into artistic material.
“Love Island” is one of Peacock’s most thrilling reality shows, featuring a cast of attractive singles and an even hotter host. Ariana Madix, who first rose to fame on “Vanderpump Rules,” has become one of the dating competition’s most essential figures, known for her stunning features, extravagant looks, and killer catwalk. And speaking of catwalk, the viral slow-mo entrances that have taken the world by storm don’t happen by surprise. In a new interview, Madix revealed that nailing those scenes takes intentionality, and to get her mind right, she channels another superstar: Beyoncé.
@cnn Ariana Madix says she taps into Beyoncé’s Sasha Fierce persona when filming her signature slow-motion walk. She explains the inspiration came from seeing the singer’s “Renaissance” tour. Join CNN’s Elizabeth Wagmeister as she interviews Emmy-nominated celebrities on anything from their career-defining moments to news-making reflections. Stream episodes of Coming Up on the CNN app now. #arianamadix #loveisland #beyonce #confidence ♬ original sound – CNN
For those who may be unfamiliar with the aforementioned scenes, Madix’s slow-motion walks on “Love Island” are one of the things fans look forward to most during the captivating dating series. Throughout her last three seasons, the former Bravo reality star has been seen strutting her stuff in iconic, flowy dresses, striking hairdos, and breathtaking makeup.
Her sultry walks only add to the drama, and in an interview with CNN, Madix said it’s all part of the game. According to the 41-year-old, Madix channels Beyoncé, specifically the moment when she walks a catwalk during her 2023 tour “RENAISSANCE.”
“During Beyoncé’s Renaissance tour, which I saw twice, I love Beyoncé. There is a moment where she does this catwalk and it’s the intro to the song ‘Energy’ […] And we were right there and Beyoncé was making a beeline right for us and that stuck in my head,” she said.
Ariana Madix Earned An Emmy Nomination For Her Work On ‘Love Island’
Madix’s attention to detail and commitment to making viewers fall in love with “Love Island” don’t go unnoticed. The reality star recently earned an Emmy nomination for best host for a reality or reality competition program.
She opened up about her feelings regarding the special moment in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, revealing that she learned of the accomplishment while filming season 8 of the show in Fiji.
“So I ran over to answer the phone, worried that something bad had happened. And it was my team calling to tell me about it and to congratulate, and we were all so excited on the phone,” she said.
Madix Gets Candid About Possibly Returning To ‘Love Island’ For Another Season
In another interview with Us Weekly, Madix responded to fans’ concerns about her potential departure from the series and said she’s unable to speak about the show’s future, but seemed confident she’d be back for season 9.
“I do wonder about that sometimes. [People on social media have] been saying that every year, and I always wonder where that comes from,” she said. “I have seen comments online that say there’s some sort of two-year thing and I’ve always wondered where did that [rumor] come from?”
Why Madix Loves That Fans Are Concerned About Her Future On The Show
And while the rumors can be frustrating to deal with at times, Madix said it makes her feel good to know that fans would be disappointed if she weren’t part of the program in the future.
“But you know what? It is really nice because so many of those comments will be so positive in the sense that they’re wondering because they’re hoping that I will be back. So that’s really great,” she said. “But yeah, nothing’s been said. So I don’t know where they come up with that.”
‘Love Island’ Isn’t Over Just Yet
Although “Love Island” wrapped a few weeks ago, the season isn’t over just yet. Madix will team up with Andy Cohen in late August 2026 to host the season 8 reunion.
According to a previous report from The Blast, Madix said she had so much fun working on the reunion with Cohen in the past and even revealed that she learned a lot about the job from him.
“I learned a little bit like, ‘Oh, I’m allowed to do that,’ which is great,” she said, adding, “We had a lot of fun together.”
The 1990s are back in a big way. Baggy jeans and relaxed fits are all the rage in fashion, while beloved films from that era like Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion with original stars Mira Sorvino and Lisa Kudrow and Heat are about to get long-awaited follow-ups soon.
Next month, another ‘90s classic, Practical Magic, is finally getting the sequel fans have been wanting for years.
Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman are back as Sally and Gillian Owens, two close sisters who share the same gift for, well, practical magic.
With Practical Magic 2 set to bewitch moviegoers on September 11, Watch With Us is getting ready by watching some of Bullock and Kidman’s best movies — and, let’s be honest, some films that are so-bad-they’re-entertaining.
And to save some money to fund our holiday trip to Fiji, we’re going to one of our favorite FAST platforms to stream some of the best free-to-watch movies around.
Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman are back as the Owens sisters in the official Practical Magic 2 trailer — and this time around, a dead ex-boyfriend is nowhere in sight. “No magic is stronger than sisterhood. Cast by fate, tested by time and never broken,” Aunt Frances “Franny” (Stockard Channing) reveals in the trailer, released […]
Where Can You Watch Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman’s Movies for Free?
A woman and a man talk outside in Two Weeks Notice. Warner Bros.
Pluto TV is streaming some of Bullock and Kidman’s movies for free in August.
The following Sandra Bullock films are now available on-demand on Pluto TV:
Miss Congeniality
Miss Congeniality 2
Two Weeks Notice
Gravity
The Net
Forces of Nature
The Thing Called Love
Aside from the mediocre Forces of Nature, you can’t go wrong with any one of these titles. The Miss Congeniality movies have long been adored by Bullock’s fans, and Gravity is a top-tier sci-fi that gave the actress her second Oscar nomination.
If you only had time to watch one of these films, I’d recommend Two Weeks Notice. The 2002 film, which stars Bullock as a lawyer who has a combative love/late relationship with her boss, the demanding George Wade (Hugh Grant), is a top-notch rom-com that features both of its lead stars at the top of their game. It’s a low-key charmer that not a lot of people have seen.
The following Nicole Kidman films are available on-demand on Pluto TV:
Nicole Kidman in The Hours. Paramount/courtesy Everett Collection
Cold Mountain
The Peacemaker
The Hours
Margot at the Wedding
Rabbit Hole
The Family Fang
Grace of Monaco
The Human Stain
The Paperboy
Genius
Is there any better encapsulation of the sheer oddity of Kidman’s filmography? The Aussie actress won an Oscar for The Hours and received critical acclaim for Margot at the Wedding and Rabbit Hole, but also starred in The Paperboy, a lurid thriller where she urinates on Zac Efron to save his life. (No, I’m not joking.)
Fans have already started to prepare their midnight margaritas in anticipation of Practical Magic 2 — and star Sandra Bullock is thrilled to be returning for the sequel alongside Nicole Kidman. “Sandra’s really excited about Practical Magic 2,” a source exclusively shares in the latest issue of Us Weekly. “Nicole is someone she adores, and […]
Kidman is one of the most interesting actors working today, but I’m a huge fan of one of her more traditional films, The Hours. A literate drama about how the lives of three women from three different time periods are affected by Virginia Woolf’s novel Mrs. Dalloway, The Hours features a star-studded cast that includes Kidman, Meryl Streep, Julianne Moore, Ed Harris, Allison Janney, John C. Reilly and Claire Danes, a brilliant score by Philip Glass and intelligent direction by Stephen Daldry. But Kidman won an Oscar for a reason, and her Virginia Woolf is a fascinating character — brilliant yet plagued with doubt, she lives to write even if it drives her mad. It’s such an impressive performance that she beat out co-star Moore (for Far From Heaven) and Diane Lane (for Unfaithful) to win her first, and so far only, Academy Award.
Netflix is giving Mizu the chance to finish her revenge story.
The streamer has officially renewed its acclaimed animated series Blue Eye Samurai for a third and final season, confirming that the upcoming chapter will bring Mizu’s story to an end. The announcement comes well ahead of Season 2, which is now set to premiere in January 2027.
Season 3 is currently planned for 2028, meaning fans won’t have nearly as long to wait between the show’s final two seasons. Production on Season 2 has reportedly wrapped, while work on the third season is already underway.
Created by Amber Noizumi and Michael Green, Blue Eye Samurai debuted on Netflix in 2023 and follows Mizu, voiced by Maya Erskine, a mixed-race swordmaster pursuing a brutal quest for revenge in 17th-century Japan.
Blue Eye Samurai [netflix]
Season 2 will take that journey far beyond Japan. After the events of the first-season finale, Mizu heads to London in pursuit of the remaining men connected to her past. Meanwhile, the story will continue back in Japan as Akemi and Taigen navigate Edo Castle under a dangerous new shogun and Ringo searches for a new purpose.
Erskine is expected to return alongside Brenda Song as Akemi, Darren Barnet as Taigen and Masi Oka as Ringo.
Netflix’s decision to order the final season this early gives Noizumi and Green something increasingly rare in streaming television: the opportunity to plan a definitive ending. Rather than leaving Mizu’s fate dependent on another renewal after Season 2, the creators can now build toward a planned conclusion.
The series has become one of Netflix’s most acclaimed animated originals since its debut, earning multiple awards, including the Emmy for Outstanding Animated Program.
Blue Eye Samurai Season 2 premieres on Netflix in January 2027, although an exact date has not yet been announced. The third and final season is expected to arrive in 2028.
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