Do you know what unites Orson Welles, David Lynch, Sidney Lumet, and Jordan Peele? Each of them made their directorial debuts with movies that are now considered all-time classics. More recently, this list can easily be expanded to include Ari Aster, Celine Song, Charlotte Wells, and Emerald Fennell. However, one filmmaker is often overlooked in discussions on this topic, or, on other occasions, is treated like a token candidate from an exotic foreign land. The filmmaker in question made his directorial debut in 1955, and his work has been hugely influential on the careers of directors such as Wes Anderson. His first movie was also the first installment of a trilogy, and it is currently streaming in the United States on HBO Max.

However, those who haven’t yet seen it may want to hurry, as it will soon be removed from the platform. The film is largely credited for introducing global audiences to arthouse Indian cinema, a far cry from the more colorful Bollywood movies that traveled across the world. It was directed by the great Satyajit Ray, a pioneer of the “parallel cinema” movement in India who worked predominantly in the Bengali language. He won an honorary Oscar before his death in 1992, and was hugely influenced by the Italian neorealist movement. His 1955 classic borrowed elements from Italian neorealism but filtered them through a uniquely lyrical lens.

Here’s How Long You Have Left to Watch the Classic on HBO Max

Image via Aurora Film Corporation

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We’re talking, of course, about Pather Panchali, the first in Ray’s Apu Trilogy, which also includes Aparajito and Apur Sansar. A drama about the realities of life in rural India, the movie now holds a “Certified Fresh” 98% score on Rotten Tomatoes. The aggregator website’s consensus reads, “A film that requires and rewards patience in equal measure, Pather Panchali finds director Satyajit Ray delivering a classic with his debut.” While honoring Ray at the Cannes Film Festival in 2025, Anderson — his lifelong fan — said in an interview, “I watched (Ray’s 1961 title) Teen Kanya first, just because it happened to be available in a video store in Texas. That’s how I became interested in his films. I saw images from Ray’s work and thought, ‘That’s the way I want to be.’” Pather Panchali will be available on HBO Max until September 30. Stay tuned to Collider for more updates.

Netflix‘s docuseries, Worst Ex Ever, details the stories of terrifying abuse at the hands of significant others. Significant others who, once professed love, only to flip the script to something far darker and contemptible. And what the brave survivors have to say is the stuff of nightmares. From the same team that brought Worst Roommate Ever to Netflix, Worst Ex Ever shifts the focus from roommates to lovers, “from chilling betrayals to murder plots, this true-crime docuseries dissects the dark side of love through eyewitness testimonies.” Each episode interviews survivors, their families, and investigators to provide a thorough account of each horrifying case.

‘Worst Ex Ever’ Exposes the Failings of the Justice System

In the first episode, “Dating the Devil,” the episode focuses on Ben Foster, a man with a violent history who intended to kill Justine Siemens, his girlfriend. The story of Foster, even before Siemens, is reprehensible. He was charged in 2017 for domestic violence against his ex-girlfriend, and then in 2019, holding his girlfriend captive for two weeks, which left her with seven broken ribs, two black eyes, and injuries inflicted by zip ties and duct tape used for restraint. For the latter, he was charged with five felonies but pleaded guilty to reduced charges and was sentenced to 30 months in state prison. But in what proves to be a common theme that runs through Worst Ex Ever, the justice system failed, releasing Foster on the same day he was transferred to state prison after already having served 729 days while awaiting trial.

Foster moves to Oregon, where he meets Siemens while working as a bartender. All was well in the early stages until she reported Foster to his employer after learning about his criminal history, which led to Foster being fired. That’s when Siemens came face-to-face with “the Devil,” with Foster stalking her, torturing her, and subjecting her to severe physical abuse. For three days, Foster held Siemens captive, brutally assaulting her, and she was only rescued after managing to call a friend for help. Foster escaped and altered his appearance, kicking off a manhunt. After being cornered by police, Foster chose to kill himself after an hours-long standoff on January 31, 2023, never taking accountability for the lives he destroyed along the way.

In ‘Worst Ex Ever,’ the Most Horrifying Stories Only Seem To Get Worse

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In “Betrayed by the Badge,” we follow the story of Seemona Sumasar, a financial adviser and franchise owner with a young daughter. Sumasar’s life changed after meeting Jerry Ramrattan, an NYPD officer and detective, and the two began a relationship. All was well until Ramrattan’s wife appeared. As it turns out, Ramrattan was little more than a con man who was married and had three children. Despite the inevitable breakup, Sumasar allowed Ramrattan to stay in her basement for a few weeks. Weeks became months, and then Ramrattan turned on Sumasar, raping her and fleeing the police afterward before eventually being caught.

After getting out on bail, Ramrattan relentlessly hounded Sumasar, trying to force her to stop cooperating with the rape investigation. When that didn’t work, he tried to frame Sumasar for armed robbery. That, too, didn’t work, but a new plan, implemented by Ramrattan with the help of two associates, reported armed robberies that painted Sumasar as the guilty party, did work (as per the previously cited Today). She was arrested in May 2010, and despite her claims of innocence and pointing to Ramrattan as the mastermind behind the ruse, police didn’t take her seriously and brushed it off; even a solid alibi wasn’t enough to prevent Sumasar from being indicted on multiple counts of robbery and facing 25 years in prison. Although Sumasar eventually found justice, her story shows just how easy it was for Ramrattan to manipulate the system to turn against the victim of his crimes.

The Netflix Docuseries Turns a Custody Battle Into a Crime Scene

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As recounted in “Killing for Custody,” Eric Hill, a quiet, unassuming man, met Mei Li at work, and she introduced him to her daughter, Rosa. Eric and Rosa hit it off and got married in April 2005. Their daughter was born the next year, but the joy of their first child was undermined by Eric needing to work two jobs, and Rosa threatening divorce after the arguments between them became more frequent. After separating, Rosa refused to allow Eric to see their daughter on her first birthday; Eric then sued for custody. As a result, Rosa began making up lies, first by emailing Eric’s work claiming he intended to carry out a shooting there, and another claiming Eric was abusive to their daughter. All the allegations were proven false, and the court gave full custody to Eric.

On January 7, 2009, Rosa and Mei broke into Sally Hill‘s home, Eric’s 91-year-old grandmother, where they attacked and killed her. Shortly after, Eric and his daughter arrived, but while searching for Sally, Eric was attacked by Rosa and Mei. When police arrived, it was too difficult to make heads or tails of what had happened, and everyone was taken into custody. Now out of the way, detectives were able to search the property, finding Sally’s body and a backpack that contained rope, crossbows, a hunting knife, a throwing star, and a crowbar, among other things. Rosa’s car was found half a block away, along with a samurai sword and leg irons inside. This led to detectives uncovering a sickening plan, which would have pinned Sally’s murder on Eric, and he would be forced to write a confession too. Then, Eric would “kill himself” in despair, leaving Rosa Hill as the only legal custodian of their child.

‘Worst Ex Ever’ Exposes How Cold-Blooded and Vicious Some People Can Be

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“Married to a Monster” tells the story of Kevin Lewis, husband to Amanda Canales and father to their two daughters and a son. As their family grew, so too did Lewis’s dark side, which at first began with controlling behavior and snide remarks about his wife’s body while she was pregnant. Amanda attempted to dismiss his increasingly frequent mood swings, but after Lewis went through her phone, he cornered Amanda in the closet and attacked her. This led to Amanda leaving Lewis, taking the children with her to another home, only for Lewis to follow her and nearly kill her after striking her head repeatedly. The assault pushed Amanda to file for divorce and for a restraining order, which ultimately proved to be useless.

Lewis paid Jerradon Phelps and Alexis Hale $2,400 to kill Amanda, and on September 20, 2017, the assassins entered the home. Amanda would be spared as she was away on a business trip, but her sister, Alisha Canales-McGuire, who was watching her children, was not and was killed. Phelps and Hale were taken in, but attempts to link Lewis, Phelps’ cousin, to the crime proved fruitless. At least until detectives received a tip regarding Hale’s bragging on social media about having killed someone. Detectives were then able to track Hale’s Snapchat videos to show the pair travelled from Spokane to Everett, stopping at Lewis’ house, and carrying on to Amanda’s home, where neighborhood Ring cameras and a nearby security camera were proof-positive of the trio’s guilt.

‘Worst Ex Ever’ Presents the Survivor’s Stories Without Glamorizing the Details

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A true-crime documentary is often difficult to pull off without somehow dramatizing the players behind the crimes. One documentary that succeeded in this is another Netflix venture, American Murder: Laci Peterson, only for a competing documentary looking to exonerate the man convicted of the crime, Scott Peterson, to air on Peacock days later. The way Worst Ex Ever steps around this, though, is very clever. There are no live recreations of the events, but key moments in all four stories are dramatized with surprisingly effective animated sequences. This is continued in the show’s second season, the method helping to accentuate the details of what happened without involving unnecessary visceral violence. It forces the viewer to understand, to feel the emotion of the events without catering to a gratuitous dramatic visual that is disturbing.

Worst Ex Ever also succeeds at offering an even-handed approach to each story. Guilty parties are just that, guilty parties, and that includes those in the justice system who failed the survivors. It isn’t a total damnation of that system, as the series takes its time in hearing from law enforcement individuals who were instrumental in seeing justice served as well. Most importantly, Worst Ex Ever stands as a warning bell for viewers, detailing the signs to look for and the hope of coming out the other side.

A new film being released in select theaters on October 23 brings two unlikely friends together in a relatable and inspirational way. “Seniors” highlights humor, a motivational story about second chances, and bridges the intergenerational gap to prove that sometimes taking a risk can lead to an unexpected connection. 

Starring in the film is powerhouse actor John Rhys-Davies, best known for his roles in the “Indiana Jones” films and “Lord of the Rings.” He’s joined by an actor who’s newer to the screen, but not new to the scene – Paris Brosnan. As the son of veteran actor Pierce Brosnan, who’s worked with John in their earlier years, this was a full-circle-feeling moment for the all. 

John Rhys-Davies and Paris Brosnan sat down with The Blast to exclusively chat about “Seniors” and what it was like working together.

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When discussing the new film, Paris explained a little about the storyline and who he feels the story will resonate with.

“The story is about an unexpected friendship,” he told The Blast exclusively. “A young man finds a best friend, someone who he’s not looking to meet. It’s a blessing and unexpected. What I love about it is it shows you’re never too young or too old to find a new sense of purpose and a meaningful friendship, and you know, sometimes someone unexpected will help you find your voice.” 

John added that it’s all about how the young and old can bridge the generation gap. 

“I think the old man actually gains more than the young man does,” he shared. “So it’s a sweet film about life and love, I suppose, in those grand terms that we use.”

More About John Rhys-Davies And Paris Brosnan’s Roles In ‘Seniors’

When discussing the dynamics between Paris and John’s characters in the film, they both shared some insight. 

John started with what pulled him into the role initially. 

“I liked the story. It has a lovely innocence to it, and I think it actually celebrates the better qualities of humanity. And it’s a positive film. That was my first impression,” he shared. “The second was, I liked the idea of working with young people. It’s a university film, really. I just wanted to see how quickly they could become a professional film crew, and really, the first day I was impressed, but by day two or day three, they were a professional team.” 

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He also said that when he learned Paris would also be starring in the film, he thought he absolutely had to do it. 

“When I learned that young Paris, who’s the son of an old friend, was in it, I thought, you got to do this,” he said. “It’s a charming story and it’s about the growth of two people at different points in their lives. The old man recovers, perhaps, loses some of the cynicism and likes people again and the young man gains the realization of the intricacies and failures that can await people as they get older. I think he ends up better prepared for life and that’s really rather important.”

Paris Brosnan’s Character Also Endures Some Struggles

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Paris’ character also goes through some struggles in “Seniors.” He said he connected with this role because it’s all about “being willing to start again.” 

“It’s about being willing to start again and also being willing to believe in someone who maybe hasn’t been given the second chance by other people,” he told The Blast exclusively. “It resonated a lot with me as a young artist and someone who’s finding their voice and trying to tell their story and navigate life.” 

Paris said when he read the script, he instantly “fell in love with the story” and he became eager to tell his character’s story and bring it to life. 

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Paris Brosnan Said Working With John Rhys-Davies Was ‘An Honor’

For John, working with Pierce’s son Paris was a full circle moment. For Paris, it was a great “masterclass” and overall experience. 

“It was an honor. I was over the moon. I’ve been a fan of John and his work since I was a little kid,” Paris told The Blast. “It was a masterclass of acting and the greatest mentor and teacher and acting class I could have had.” 

Paris explained that this film basically found him and he’s “eternally grateful” for it happening the way it did. 

For John, working with Paris was a chance to help him grow his craft. 

“I looked at this young man and saw what was already there. There’s an innocence, a grace, an inner beauty. Just as an old actor and as a father, I wanted to help him, let him help find the details and help him find the way to release what he was thinking in terms of expression and acting, and it was really easy,” John told The Blast. “He’s not quite a Stradivarius yet, but he’s a young Guarini and all young talent needs is encouragement and a gentle correction.”

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John Rhys-Davies Shared Some Advice For Paris Brosnan

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John shared that one of the hardest things for actors can be to listen. He added that he stopped listening “about 93 times a day, which is an improvement because when I started off as an actor, it was 98 times a day.” 

“He [Paris] was the easiest, most talented young star to work with. He is gifted, very gifted and just lovely to work with,” he said. “And as long as he continues at that and doesn’t suddenly imagine that he is A-list and doesn’t want to speak to his common friends and things like that, I have a fellow colleague in mind who’s doing it and destroying his career.” 

Paris shared that John “dropped so much knowledge on all of us, and so much wisdom and methodical lore,” calling every day on set a “masterclass.” 

When asked how he steps out of his father’s shadow in acting, he simply said, “do the work.” 

“I obviously wholeheartedly acknowledge my privilege and blessing, and I’m very grateful for it. And I think I gotta work a little bit harder,” he said. “I’m so grateful because he’s always said, if you want to act, then go to class and learn and read. He gives me lots of books. And just working with John inspired me to get back to basics and listen and be methodical about it. I’m determined to keep working at it and hopefully keep getting to work with incredible crews and people telling stories, because I love acting.”

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For more information on “Seniors,” visit the website.

A Fun Moment With John Rhys-Davies

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Two of John’s most recognizable roles have been Sallah in the “Indiana Jones” films and Gimli in “Lord of the Rings.” Before ending the interview, we thought why not ask a fun question — if he was in trouble, which one of those characters would he call on for help? Of course, John quickly had a lively answer and explanation. 

“Well, if you want practicality, then you might need somebody like Sallah, who actually will always deliver the goods and will play straight,” he said without missing a beat. “He has rescued Indy more times than Indy could possibly ever understand. In fact, Indy would have been completely lost without Sallah.”

But his answer wasn’t complete there. 

“If on the other hand, you face an impossible situation where only courage and resolution and bravery and loyalty and friendship matter, then you’d find your inner core. That’s what gets you through things,” he said. “I cannot tell you how many people have come up to me and said the ‘Lord of the Rings’ really made a difference in their life. They would say it taught the value of friendship, loyalty, courage, and it’s a great tribute to a very great writer.”

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Blueface is back at it again and has the internet asking a bunch of questions! The rapper seemingly popped back out with Nevaeh Akira and their son, Jonathan Jr., leaving fans to wonder if he’s spinning the block and if they really went their separate ways.

RELATED: Oop! Blueface Drops A Spicy Message & The Internet Immediately Mentions Nevaeh Akira (PHOTO + VIDEO) 

Back Like They Never Left? Blueface & Nevaeh Akira Seemingly Reunite

Blueface has fans asking “What’s tea?” after popping out on a livestream with Nevaeh Akira and Jonathan Jr. In the now-viral clip, Blue cuddles up with Jonathan Jr. and kisses him on the cheek. Meanwhile, Nevaeh was busy in the kitchen cooking up a meal while laughing at some of Blue’s comments. She didn’t say too much, but she did make sure to remind him that she “didn’t want him” while giggling over the stove.

Of course, Blue and Nevaeh’s reunion immediately had fans questioning whether they REALLY called it quits. Earlier this month, Nevaeh shook up timelines when she hopped on her Instagram Story and announced that she was “single.” The pair had a viral fallout after Blue accused her of lying about having a portrait tattoo of him when it was allegedly a tat of NBA YoungBoy. Despite being under the same roof, neither Blue nor Nevaeh have confirmed whether they have reconciled or simply linked up to spend with Jonathan Jr.

The Internet Has Thoughts After Blueface Links Up With Nevaeh

Chileee, once the clip of Blueface and Nevaeh Akira hit the internet, The Shade Room Teens’ comment section LIT all the way UP! Plenty of folks said they already knew the two would find their way back to each other, while others couldn’t help but clock Nevaeh’s energy. Some fans said she looked a lil’ too giddy during the link up and started wondering if there’s more to the story.

Instagram user @a3_capalot wrote, “I knew he was coming back 💀” 

Instagram user @nearich19 wrote, “Y’all got scammed for subs!! 😂😂😂😂” 

While Instagram user @blossomhereagain wrote, ‘Boy I don’t want chhhhhu’ while cooking, ahkay bookie 😂😂😂😂” 

Then Instagram user @unicornia__ wrote, “She alil too happy smh lol.” 

Another Instagram user @jamie_desno wrote, “Jaidyn bout to be pissed for 48 days and 48 nights.” 

Instagram user @one.georgiapeach wrote, “She on cloud 9 now🤣😂🤣😂 🤡” 

Then another Instagram user @2prettybreebaby wrote, “He would not be kissing on my baby.” 

While another Instagram user @aeio_uu_ wrote, “He looks every bit of I’m back from cheating. I came to pick up my son and I did so imma lay up for a few days until I’m ready to cheat again cuz I know you’ll take me back 🥴”

Finally, Instagram user @oh_thatsmillie wrote, “See how when u act like you dgaf they come back around 😂😂😂😂” 

Nevaeh Previously Explained Why She Was Still At Blue’s House After Their Split

Fans have been trying to get the tea on Nevaeh and Blue ever since they called it quits. Shortly after their split, Nevaeh hopped on a livestream and answered a few questions, including why she was still at Blue’s house even though they were no longer together. Nevaeh explained that she was waiting to have a conversation with him and planned to ask whether he wants her to “leave or stay.”

From there, Nevaeh kept it a stack about her feelings. Despite their fallout, she admitted that she still had a lot of love for Blue and ultimately just wanted him to prove that his love for her was real. “I got love for him. I love him. I’m not scared to admit the s**t.” Nevaaeh said. “But, if I’m not who he wants he needs to be loud and clear about it so I can get the stepping. I already got the bags ready.” 

RELATED: Hol’ Up! Nevaeh Akira Debuts New Tattoos & Reveals Why She’s Still At Blueface’s House (PHOTO + VIDEO)

Washburn University men’s basketball coach Brett Ballard is on the road to recovery after a devastating car accident in August left him hospitalized for a week.

Ballard, 46, updated fans on his progress in a video shared via X on Friday, September 18.

“My doctors had determined that I had a neurological episode that caused me to wreck my truck as I was driving down the highway,” he explained. “Fortunately no one else was involved in the accident. Unfortunately for me I was in a pretty bad wreck and in the hospital for about a week.”

Ballard continued, “The good news is I’m progressing and tracking in a very good direction and my team of doctors feels like I’ll make a full recovery in the next couple months. God is good.”

The accident occurred on August 4 in Topeka, Kansas, where Washburn is located. Ballard’s 2024 Ford F-150 veered off the road and hit a delineator post, then an embankment and bridge pillar, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol’s online crash log.

Ballard was the only person in the car at the time and was wearing his seat belt.

“To my doctors that night and [those] who have been with me along this journey, I’m grateful for you,” he said. “To my wife Kelly who has been an absolute rock during this situation, I’m so thankful for her. To our family, friends, relatives, fans, everybody that’s called, text, reached out, provided support, I’m so thankful and humbled by your support.”

Ballard then spoke about his team, which has gone 61-6 over the last two seasons.

Related: Kansas Men’s Basketball Dedicates Win to Staffer 3 Days After His Death

The Kansas Jayhawks played perhaps the game of the year in the 2025-26 men’s college basketball season on Tuesday, January 6, and for them, the 104-100 overtime win over Texas Christian University meant a little more. The Jayhawks were playing with heavy hearts, grieving the death of athletics staffer Scott “Scooter” Ward, who died on […]

“I tell my team all the time that you’re going to face adversity, whether it’s on the court or in life,” he said. “I’m doing my best to respond to this challenge in the right way. “We’ve been ranked No. 1 in the country the last two years and I feel like I’ve got a team again that’s going to be highly competitive and compete for championships, so I hope to see many of you out there at Lee Arena this winter to support me and the team.”

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In the immediate aftermath of Ballard’s accident, coaches from around college basketball voiced their support. He spent time in Division I as an assistant at Wake Forest, Tulsa and Kansas under Hall of Famer Bill Self.

“Thoughts and prayers to Brett,” Wake Forest men’s basketball coach Steve Forbes wrote via X at the time.

“Our prayers are going to the entire Ballard family,” Washburn women’s basketball coach Lora Westling added via X. “Coach is as tough as they come and has an entire community behind him as he recovers. The Washburn family is special for a reason. Thoughts, prayers, and strength to everyone who can use it today.”

Paris Hilton went through a style transformation after she became a mother.

“I feel like I, in my life, I do so many things,” Hilton, 45, exclusively told Us at The Blonds’ 20th anniversary fashion show on Monday, September 14, while discussing the “whole new style” she took on after welcoming son Phoenix, 3, and daughter London, 2, with husband Carter Reum.

“I’m a mom, I’m a businesswoman, I’m a DJ, I’m a pop star, I’m an artist,” she continued. “I do it all. So there’s always whatever vibe or theme is happening for the day, but for me, I’m a sliving mom, so I’ll always be, you know, dressing the way I do and having fun with it. But then also, like, the hot housewife vibes as well.”

As for whether she’s passing her iconic sense of style onto her daughter, Hilton told Us that London is “already” raiding her closet “all the time.”

“She’s only 2 and a half, and she’s coming in my closet, trying to try on my shoes now, wearing the purses, the outfits,” she explained. “She’s already trying, and she’s a mini fashionista. She’s like a mini me. She’s so gorgeous, so sweet, and she can raid my closet whenever she likes.”

The Simple Life alum continued, “She is the luckiest girl in the world because [of] the amount of clothes that she’s going to have, and I tell her that every day when I’m trying something on. She’s like, ‘Mama, I love that.’ I’m like, ‘Honey, this is going to be all yours one day, so you are a very, very lucky girl.’”

Hilton closed out The Blonds’ show during New York Fashion Week, commanding the runway in a Swarovski crystal-encrusted look inspired by the new motorola razr. Designer David Blond dubbed Hilton “the ultimate blonde.”

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While speaking to Us about her style, Hilton admitted that she didn’t always have the self-confidence she boasts today.

Related: Paris Hilton Looks Unrecognizable With Brunette Bangs on Gucci Runway

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Paris Hilton had fans doing a double take while walking the runway. Hilton, 45, stepped out on Saturday, May 16, to walk the runway during the Gucci Cruise 2027 collection fashion show in New York City. The singer noticeably rocked a new look for the special occasion. Instead of her signature blonde hair, Hilton opted […]

“I feel like I developed confidence over time,” she shared. “I was always shy growing up, but then when I moved to New York City, and especially during Fashion Week, I feel like is when I really would like come to life, and, like, I learned how to do the runway walk, and just being on the catwalk and fashion, and especially wearing something like this, you can’t help but feel confident.”

She added, “New York Fashion Week has always been so special to me. I just have so many memories of my sister and I going to all the shows, walking in them, and I’ve loved The Blondes forever. So when they asked me to be part of the 20th anniversary, it was an immediate yes because I love them so much. They’re so talented and creative. Their pieces are art, and … I’m so happy to be here to support them.”

The SDR Show just notched one of its biggest visibility wins in its long run, climbing into the top 20 on iHeartRadio’s Comedy chart this week while also earning a feature placement on the platform’s front page. For a show that has been grinding out twice-weekly episodes for more than a decade, the timing lines up with a genuine moment of momentum for hosts Ralph Sutton and Aaron Berg.

Why A Spot On iHeart’s Front Page Actually Means Something

iHeartRadio isn’t a niche corner of the podcast world. The platform’s owned network alone reached roughly 55.7 million unique monthly listeners across nearly 940 shows as of this past July, according to Podtrac data, and the company has built its base to well over 100 million registered users over the years. Its weekly Top 100 podcast chart updates every Monday and functions as one of the clearest signals of what audiences are actually pressing play on that week, out of a catalog that runs into the tens of thousands of active shows across the broader network.

Getting an editorial front page placement on top of a chart position is a different kind of win than an algorithmic recommendation. It means someone on iHeart’s programming side looked at The SDR Show and decided it belonged in front of listeners who weren’t already searching for it, casual browsers, people scrolling for something new, longtime iHeart users who’ve never heard of Sutton or Berg. That’s discovery reach a show can’t buy its way into. For a podcast built around raw, unscripted conversation rather than a big media brand behind it, landing in that spot is a real vote of confidence in the show’s staying power and its ability to still pull in new listeners after all these years.

A Decade-Plus Run Built On Unfiltered Conversation

The SDR Show, short for Sex, Drugs & Rock N Roll, launched with modest beginnings back around 2013 to 2014, pulling in roughly 6,000 downloads in its first month and cracking the New & Noteworthy list at number six. By March 2015, it had already climbed to the top of iTunes’ comedy charts, an early sign that the format- blunt, funny, no-filter conversations with musicians, comedians, adult performers, and anyone with a wild story- had real staying power.

Ralph Sutton, who has previously spent more than a decade hosting the nationally syndicated rock radio show The Tour Bus, has been the constant behind the mic since day one. His co-host chair has changed hands over the years, first shared with comedian Big Jay Oakerson, later with Dov Davidoff, and now with Aaron Berg, who officially stepped into the role after Sutton made the call himself. The show has since grown into a fixture of GaS Digital Network, the New York-based podcast network founded in 2016 that now produces around 20 shows reaching an estimated five million monthly listeners.

Across more than 750 episodes, the show has hosted an unusually wide range of guests, from musicians like Gene Simmons and Peter Frampton to comedians like Ray Romano and Pete Davidson, and even names outside entertainment entirely, including Mark Cuban and Neil deGrasse Tyson. That guest list is part of why the show has picked up mentions over the years from outlets like Loudwire, NME, and Entrepreneur Magazine.

Recent Buzz Has Been Building

The show’s latest chapter with Aaron Berg has generated its own wave of coverage. Sutton announced the hire directly, joking that Berg was his first call but initially turned it down before coming around. Berg brings his own following into the mix, an established New York comedy circuit veteran with acting credits including The Boondock Saints 2 and Detroit Rock City, six stand-up albums, and a career as an author, all of which give the show a fresh comedic voice alongside Sutton’s rock radio pedigree.

Combine that host transition with a catalog that’s still releasing new episodes twice a week, most recently digging into the formation story behind the band The Paradox, and it’s clear the show has kept its foot on the gas rather than coasting on its history.

What This Moment Signals Going Forward

A top 20 chart position and a front page feature on a platform this size isn’t a fluke for a show with this kind of track record. It’s a reflection of a decade-plus of consistency finally getting matched with the kind of platform-level exposure that can introduce The SDR Show to an entirely new audience, right as it heads into a new era with Berg behind the mic.

Fantasy stories have long held a special place in popular culture. Their sprawling magical worlds, mythical creatures, heroes, and epic battles give audiences an escape into captivating worlds where their imaginations come alive. Franchises like Harry Potter, The Lord of the Rings, and George R.R. Martin‘s A Song of Ice and Fire have created some of the most memorable fantasy worlds in literature. With their rich worlds and endless storytelling possibilities, fantasy has continued to evolve, giving newer generations fresh takes on beloved classics. Fantasy lovers are particularly in for a treat in the not-too-distant future as several classics are getting new reimaginings. Among them is an underrated yet beloved title getting a Netflix reboot.

One of the greatest fantasy book masterpieces making a comeback in live action is The Chronicles of Narnia. The reboot series has been gaining buzz for a while now, and recently, an exclusive first look at two of its mythical characters, Aslan and Jadis, was unveiled. The reboot is being written and directed by Greta Gerwig (Barbie), who will take audiences back to the world of Narnia by adapting the first chronological book in the series, The Magician’s Nephew. The movie is slated to release in theaters first on February 12, 2027, before heading to its streaming home on Netflix on April 2. As the date draws near, Disney and Walden Media are giving audiences a brand-new release to mark its return.

The Chronicles of Narnia trilogy is getting a brand-new Blu-ray release. Per Blu-ray.com, the release will include all three films in the franchise: The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005), along with its sequels, The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (2008) and The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (2010). The offering comes in a 3-disc set, with one disc for each movie. As usual, the release will include bonus features, including never-before-seen deleted scenes, audio commentaries, and featurettes. The new set is currently available for pre-order and will hit shelves on October 6, 2026, giving fans a chance to own the original trilogy before the new era arrives.

What Else Do We Know About ‘The Chronicles of Narnia’ Reboot?

Though Gerwig’s Narnia reboot will tell the first chronological story in this fantasy world, it will technically serve as the fourth installment in the franchise. The movie is, however, being positioned as a reboot of the franchise following the disappointing performance of the third film, which grossed less than the first two movies. Gerwig’s deal with Netflix reportedly includes a two-movie deal and a TV adaptation, though plans beyond the reboot have yet to be revealed and could perhaps depend on the success of the first movie.

Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew will feature a star-studded lineup, including Meryl Streep, who will voice Aslan, the Christ-like figure who was previously voiced by Liam Neeson. The gender swap has sparked some controversy among fans, with Gerwig defending her decision and explaining that she wanted “someone who could communicate depth and pathos as well as joy and delight.” The movie also stars Emma Mackey as the White Witch, alongside Carey Mulligan, Daniel Craig, Ciarán Hinds, Susan Wokoma, and others. Stay tuned for future updates.

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Release Date

May 15, 2008

Runtime

150 Minutes

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Julia Stiles may have just danced her way into an apology from Juilliard School following her “Dancing with the Stars” debut. 

“Save the Last Dance” is one of the 45-year-old’s most notable films, in which she plays Sara Johnson, a talented young ballerina whose primary life ambition is to get accepted into Juilliard. 

However, Stiles’s appearance on the show was met with different reactions online, centering on the actress’s skills, including a reaction from the prestigious school. 

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After the institution was called out for a previous post, Juilliard took a hilarious turn in the best way possible.

They sent Stiles and her professional partner, Ezra Sosa, alumni gear and a lovely message, which the actress shared on Instagram.

“Dear Julia, with our apologies for the clerical error, your alumni file was found under the name Sara Johnson,” the note read. “We are so proud of you and cheering you and Ezra on.”  

The message also had a playful nod to her memorable role: “Remember, “Dancing with the Stars” ain’t no square dance, but we know you’ll dance circles, probably, around everyone else.” 

Stiles happily showed off the alumni gear, gushing over how cute the gesture was. “They know I love a crop top,” she said, holding up a shirt, a nod to her iconic 90’s style. 

The school reiterated they meant no shade at the actress in their previous post. Stiles also clarified, “Never went to Juilliard; it’s a fictional character, Sara Johnson.” 

Juilliard Showed Support For Julia Stiles Ahead Of ‘DWTS’ Premiere 

This move comes in response to a post shared by Juilliard featuring the actress in a blue dress with the caption, “Checks registrar* No, Julia Stiles did not, in fact, attend Juilliard. But we love her anyway.” 

They then went on to promote their upcoming fall festival before wishing Stiles good luck on “Dancing with the Stars,” writing, “We’re cheering you on!” 

The Blast reported that while Stiles expressed gratitude in the post comment section, some fans lightheartedly called the school out. “But did you check her alter ego Sara Johnson? We have video proof she unofficially got in.” 

“She definitely got into Juilliard…,” another fan joked. “Just can’t say it on record,” with yet another commenting, “Now Juilliard is LYING wooowowwww. We all saw her dance to get in, bestie.”  

Julia Stiles Joined A TikTok Trend To Dispel Dancing Rumors

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Stiles’ character might be a professionally trained ballerina who studied at Juilliard, but the actress herself is far from that.  Joining a TikTok Yep/Nope challenge with Sosa, Stiles had a few things to say about viral misinformation. 

In the video, she revealed that while she got some training for the movie, she had no prior training and has not had any other training since the film’s release in 2001, per The Blast.

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Another shocking revelation was that the actress had a body double for a lot of the more challenging scenes in the movie, letting fans know that her moves were not as top-notch as they might have previously thought. 

Julia Stiles Stuck It To Rival Andy Cohen With Dazzling ‘DWTS’ Performance 

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However, if her latest performance is anything to go by, the “10 Things I Hate About You” actress might be too humble about the extent of her skills. 

During the premiere, Stiles and Sosa performed an outstanding quickstep, scoring 18 out of 30 and placing on the leaderboard in the competition. 

“Andy Cohen, you can eat it,” judge Derek Hough declared after they were done, referring to the TV host’s previous comments on Stiles, saying she was not the greatest dancer on the planet. 

The Blast reported that in her intro package, the actress said the quote was ingrained in her head and was stated as one of the reasons she chose to return to the ballroom floor. 

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Julia Stiles Said Dolly Parton Approved ‘DWTS’ Song 

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Stiles and Sosa’s quickstep was done to Dolly Parton’s song, “9 to 5,” and the actress confirmed Parton gave her permission to use it just before her passing, according to USA Today.

“It was only a couple weeks before Dolly passed that she approved this song specifically for me,” Stiles revealed during the intro package. 

“I’m so honored to be dancing to her music and honoring her legacy, and I want to make her proud,” she concluded. 

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11 Rich-Looking Hunter Boots — Up to 54% Off

1. Our Favorite: You can’t go wrong with these classic short rain boots, especially since they come in a fall-coded pine color – was $165, now $120!

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3. Everyday Staple: These mini Chelsea boots truly go with everything, so don’t be surprised if you wear them 24/7 — was $140, now $95!

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Related: Shh! Amazon Marked Down Free People-Style Fall Pieces — From $6

If you’re tempted to drop hundreds at Free People, we get it. But Amazon is hiding 17 chic fall pieces that channel the brand’s aesthetic eerily well. The only difference? The price. Our top picks start at only $6! These boho-luxe pieces are mega marked down ahead of Amazon Prime Big Deal Days, which runs […]

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6. Adventure-Ready: Suede and rubber come together in these adventure-ready boots. They keep your feet warm and dry — was $185, now $125!

7. Knee-High: Make a statement in these knee-high boots that carry you through rain, snow and date night. They even have a drawcord for added water protection — was $215, now $98!

8. Dainty Pick: If you love the Hunter and Loveshackfancy collab, snag the short version, too — was $165, now $124!

9. Bestseller Alert: These bestselling tall black boots have an adjustable back, padded insole and timeless look, and they’re $44 off right now — $190, now $146!

10. Combat Style: Upgrade your combat boots with this Skylar Waterproof number that’s just as edgy yet is much more elevated — was $225, now $158!

11. Center of Attention: Metallics are totally ‘in’ and these head-turning mini boots nail the aesthetic. Don’t forget to check the coupon box — was $165, now $94!

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