Entertainment
Star Trek’s Coolest Bad Guys Accidentally Created The Franchise’s Worst Episode
By Chris Snellgrove
| Published

Pop quiz, hotshot: what do you think the worst episode of Star Trek is? There are some major contenders, including vintage stinkers from The Original Series like “Spock’s Brain” and later slop like “Code of Honor.” However, most fans agree that the worst offender is “Shades of Gray,” the Season 2 finale of Star Trek: The Next Generation. The reason this episode has such an awful reputation is that it’s Trek’s first and only clip show, one that happens to be just as cheap as it is boring.
Ending on such an awful note seemed particularly weird for TNG, whose second season included such bangers as “Q Who?”, which introduced us to the Borg. As it turns out, though, there is a surprising relationship between these two episodes. If The Next Generation hadn’t introduced the bionic baddies who would become the franchise’s greatest villains, “Shades of Gray” would never have been made!
They’re Taking Our Jabs

Here’s a quick recap (just think of it as the text equivalent of a clip show): “Shades of Gray” is an episode where Riker gets a virus from a plant, and he only has hours to live. In sickbay, Dr. Pulaski hooks him up to a device designed to stimulate his neurons so that he can fight the virus off. Of course, the “stimulating neurons” plot is just an excuse for the episode to turn into a clip show where Riker flashes back on various moments from the first couple of seasons. All of these clips inexplicably help to cure Riker, though they will torment Star Trek fans for the rest of our natural lives.
Again, “Shades of Gray” was the first clip show in Star Trek history, and it was so bad that the franchise never made this mistake again. That leads to a fairly obvious question: why did the producers create this episode in the first place? Even in the ‘80s, clip shows had a reputation for being cheap, lazy, and uninspired. Why, then, would a sophomore series trying to be taken seriously resort to the oldest and most hated trick in television history?
Money Talks, Trek Walks

The answer is, of course, money. It might not exist in the 24th century (at least, for Federation types), but cold, hard cash was still very important in the 20th century. Paramount only had so much money to produce Star Trek: The Next Generation, and some episodes cost more than others. This often involved compromise, so if the network shelled out more money for certain scripts, others would get short shrift. This is basically where bottle episodes come from: having certain episodes that require fewer actors and sets makes big, blockbuster episodes that much more affordable.
“Shades of Gray” is much cheaper than standard episodes, and the reason for this is that the network had already blown through quite a bit of cash earlier in the season. As recorded in Captain’s Logs: The Unauthorized Complete Trek Voyages, episode director Rob Bowman said that “Shades of Gray” was Paramount’s way of saying, “We gave you more money for ‘Elementary, Dear Data’ and the Borg show. Now, do us a favor and give us a three-day show. So that’s what you do. It’s an accepted part of the medium.”
When It Comes To Money, Resistance Is Futile

“Elementary, Dear Data” was the episode in which Data played Sherlock Holmes on the holodeck, running afoul of a Moriarty who managed to endanger the entire ship. That episode was also directed by Rob Bowman, who previously noted how expensive it was for Paramount to create the Victorian-era set for Data’s mystery-solving shenanigans. He estimated the cost to be $200,000, which was a huge investment for what was meant to be a one-off episode.
“The Borg show,” of course, refers to “Q Who,” which introduced the Borg into the franchise. While this episode didn’t require the production crew to recreate 19th-century England, it did require them to create an entirely new bionic race as well as a ship design: the iconic Borg cube. Additionally, the episode had a cool new Cube interior set and action scenes galore. On top of that, “Q, Who” featured the return of John de Lancie, the most beloved guest star in Next Generation history. All of those costs added up, leaving very little money left to create the Season 2 finale.

That’s how we got “Shades of Gray:” after spending so much money bringing the Borg to life, the TNG production crew had to create a clip show on a shoestring budget. It was also shot at a record pace of only three days. For context, most early episodes took eight days to shoot, and Rob Bowman was supremely annoyed that he previously had to shoot “Elementary, Dear Data” in only seven days because he felt so rushed. A three-day shoot was unheard of, and the proverbial need for speed is a big part of why this episode (which only featured three sets) is so colossally bad.
Totally Worth It

Arguably, though, “Shades of Gray” was worth it, because this episode was such a hot mess of low-budget slop, the producers had enough money to introduce the Borg into the franchise. They quickly became fan-favorite villains, eventually serving as the Big Bads of Star Trek: First Contact, widely considered the best of the TNG films. Later, they served as the main villains of Voyager before popping up to torment the Enterprise crew one last time in the final season of Star Trek: Picard.
Without the Borg, it’s entirely possible that Star Trek wouldn’t have become such a mainstream cultural phenomenon. Fortunately, these ruthless robots supercharged the franchise, giving fans the coolest villain since Khan. In a true bit of cosmic irony, though, we would never have gotten arguably the greatest bad guys in the franchise if it weren’t for the worst Star Trek episode ever made.
Entertainment
Dax Shepard reflects on befriending Eric Dane after almost fighting each other at an AA meeting: 'I hated him'
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“I ended up loving him so much,” Shepard said of the late actor, who died at 53 in February following a battle with ALS.
Entertainment
Son Melts Hearts With Reaction To ‘Boys 4 Life’ Tour
Roomies, Bow Wow’s son, Stone Moss, got the surprise of his life when he realized his dad was one of the performers at the ‘Boys 4 Life’ tour. Bow’s mom, Teresa Caldwell, shared a video of Stone’s reaction on social media, and the cuteness is next level!
RELATED: It’s Poppin’! Lil Mama Crashes Bow Wow’s Brooklyn Show As They Hilariously Address Look-Alike Rumors (VIDEO)
Bow Wow’s Son Goes Viral For His Sweet Reaction To ‘Boys 4 Life’ Tour
Recently, Bow Wow’s mom, Teresa Caldwell, shared footage from the ‘Boys 4 Life’ tour on Instagram. The quick clip shows Bow Wow’s son Stone, whom he shares with model Olivia Sky, sitting near the stage, trying to get a peek at what’s about to go down. Stone was chilling with his grandma in a black Champion T-shirt, looking confused as he tried to connect the dots and figure out how his dad ended up onstage. As soon as Bow Wow’s mom dropped the video, fans flooded the comments with reactions, calling him Lil’ Bow Wow for real.
Peep the video here.
The Internet Can’t Stop Talking About Stone’s Adorable Reaction
Folks online kept flooding Teresa’s comment section with reactions to the video of Stone. Some admitted they didn’t even know the rapper had a son, while others couldn’t believe how fast he’s grown up.
Instagram user @allandra_leann wrote, “He looking like i know that’s not my dad up there ❤️”
Instagram user @iamshaunie wrote, “He’s adorable 😍😍😍😍”
While Instagram user @afrovocative wrote, “When bow wow said how old his son is, I literally gasped because I still thought he was only like 2 years old. 😮”
Then, Instagram user @her_libra_t wrote, “wow Daddy’s twin ❤️❤️”
Another Instagram user @yellowgoldgoddess wrote, “Awww….🐾 Little-Lil Bow wow 🐾 😂 they look exactly alike.”
Instagram user @breewill_iam wrote, “He said wait a minute 🤣🤣🤣🤣”
While another Instagram user @_mutti wrote, “I had no idea Bow wow had a son, so handsome!”
Then another Instagram user @msdeefnp wrote, “I feel like I hear his little mind saying ‘wait what?’”
Finally, Instagram user @tricey630 wrote, “His handsome self have no idea how his daddy is that man 🥰”
Twin Energy Runs In Bow Wow’s Family
At this point, Bow Wow and his kids are triplets. While some fans are just getting introduced to his son Stone, plenty already know his daughter Shai Moss, whom he shares with Joie Chavis. Bow and Shai stay taking over social media with their viral daddy-daughter moments. Most recently, they had TikTok on lock when they hopped on a viral dance challenge that had fans living for the rapper in daddy mode. See the video below.
@.shaimossHes acting like he dont got rhythm smh😭🙄♬ Dumb wit it (get in dea) – Geaux Teezy
RELATED: That’s Twin! Bow Wow & Shai Moss Went Copy-Paste On A Viral TikTok Dance & The TL Is Here For IT (WATCH)
What Do You Think Roomies?
Entertainment
John Nolan, “Batman Begins” actor and uncle of Christopher Nolan, dies at 87
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He also appeared in his nephew Jonathan Nolan’s CBS series “Person of Interest.”
Entertainment
Harrison Ford opens up about dealing with depression: 'I was socially ill, psychologically not well'
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The iconic star recently explained how discovering acting during college helped him overcome his struggles.
Entertainment
Drew Sidora To Move Out Amid Custody Ruling With Ralph Pittman
One Instagram user @chachipaulino wrote, “primary custody during the school year ? Ok basically SHE WON 🥳”
This Instagram user @the.jee.spot claimed, “I can’t wait until the reunion now, cuz K is gonna drag this 😂😂😂”
And, Instagram user @tevin92bk added, “When the man get CUSTODY you know you MESSED UP 😫😮”
Meanwhile, Instagram user @_goodie2shoez shared, “Baby she about to have the best year of her life!! Normalize these men being full time parents!“
While Instagram user @d0pesince commented, “What kind of attorney did she hire!?“
Lastly, Instagram user @__destinialexis said, “Damn praying for her!!!“
Entertainment
Katseye's Manon shares message to fans after group makes Coachella debut without her
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Manon Bannerman announced her hiatus from the K-pop group in February.
Entertainment
Netflix Price Hikes Are So Outrageous That They’re Actually Illegal
By TeeJay Small
| Published

Netflix subscribers have been subject to numerous price hikes in recent years, as the streaming giant continues squeezing every possible droplet of profitability out of their audience. If you feel that these price hikes are so outrageous that they should be outlawed, you’re not alone. Apparently, the government of Italy is taking action against Netflix, with Variety reporting that Italian customers may be entitled to millions in refunds. While this bears little immediate relevance to U.S. audiences, the ongoing legal case could set an important precedent for streaming practices in the future.
Per Variety, a Rome court has sided with a consumer advocacy group against Netflix. The filing argues that exponential price hikes, which took place from 2017 through 2024, are in direct violation of Italy’s national consumer code. Specifically, the Movimento Consumatori claims that corporations cannot unilaterally raise their rates on subscription-based services without offering advanced notice and a valid reason for the change. Since Netflix has made no major sweeping changes to its service and offered no such notice, they are alleged to be in violation of Italy’s consumer protection laws.
Netflix Fights Back
Reps from Netflix have already announced an intention to appeal this ruling, though it’s unclear what grounds they have to argue. The streamer has 90 days from the initial April 1 ruling to make their case, or they’ll be subject to daily $800 penalties. Meanwhile, lawyers Paolo Fiorio and Riccardo Pinna have demanded Netflix offer refunds of hundreds of dollars to individual subscribers.
Specifically, the legal team articulated “A Premium subscriber who has paid for Netflix continuously from 2017 to the present day is entitled to a refund of about €500 ($577), while a standard subscriber is due a refund of about €250 ($288).” Netflix boasted a subscriber base of over 8 million monthly users in Italy back in 2024, so these payouts could range into the hundreds of millions if they come to fruition.
Will Netflix Actually Have To Pay Up?
For now, it’s hard to say with any certainty that Netflix will pay up, or that this legal case will have sweeping ramifications for the streaming industry. Individual cases have been brought against streamers in European nations such as Germany, Poland, and the Netherlands, though they have yet to cause any major ripple effect. But, if Netflix does seek to continue raising its rates, it bears asking, what exactly are we paying extra for?
To paraphrase one proud Italian-American from the small screen, Netflix subscribers may soon be informing the streamer, “You’ve got 90 days to give me my money.” If Netflix wants to respond with a Tony Soprano quote of their own, I’d suggest “with all due respect, you got no f-ing idea what it’s like to be number one.”
Entertainment
“The Hills” cast, then and now: See the stars nearly 20 years after the hit reality show's debut
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What Lauren Conrad, Heidi Montag, and their castmates have been up to since the series ended in 2010.
Entertainment
The 15 Best New Spring Arrivals at lululemon
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Whether you wear athleisure to hit up the gym or just to go about your daily life, lululemon is making a successful effort at convincing us to shop its new arrivals. Between upgraded functional designs and new spring-worthy colors, it’s a good time to refresh our leggings, bras and belt bags. So, those yoga classes, running sessions and casual coffee shop trips are going to be our runways!
Although lululemon is known for its comfortable training gear in buttery-soft fabrics, the brand has made an impact in casual wear, too. The new spring arrivals include non-athleisure wear, like maxi dresses and sweatpant jeans. Who knows! Maybe lululemon will upgrade more than just your workout clothing collection.
15 lululemon New Spring Arrivals on Our Wishlist
1. Our Favorite: The viral Everywhere Belt Bag is still going strong, and we have our eye on the two new color options. One is pastel, and one is bright, so we’re having a tough time choosing just one.
2. Denim in Disguise: Sweatpant jeans just might be the best hack of the season, and lululemon’s take on the trend is here. The EasyFive wide-leg pants come in four colors, 10 sizes and three inseams.
3. Sporty Spice: Protect your skin from the sun (and look cute doing it!) in this adjustable lightweight visor. It’s designed to wear while running and training, so you know it’ll stay put.
4. Better Bra: If you don’t want a bra weighing you down, try the Straight-Strap Sports Bra. It offers light support but still works with a B/C cup.
5. Must-Have Maxi: This two-in-one maxi dress can be worn as a strapless dress or a maxi skirt. Either way, you’ll appreciate the sweat-wicking fabric during the hotter months.
6. Cozy Crewneck: No matter the season, a relaxed, soft crewneck will always find its way onto your body. This one comes in lululemon’s new Candy Cloud color which is the right shade for spring and summer.
7. Tightened Tights: Leggings with a drawcord? Genius! The Groove high-rise tights ensure you have the optimal fit while practicing yoga in the buttery-soft fabric.
8. Sweet Skirt: lululemon’s Align Skirt got an upgrade with a long shorts liner and cool colorblock details. The side slide ensures that you can move in yoga, Pilates and beyond.
9. Rain Resistant: Don’t let the rain stop you from getting your workout in outdoors. The Scuba Cropped Anorak Evolve jacket is lightweight yet protects you from showers with its hood.
10. Timeless Tank: Just in time for the warmer weather, lululemon released the shade Ocean Wave. You can shop the hue in the Align Tank Top, which provides light support and a buttery-soft feel.
11. Wonderful Wide Leg: Your favorite lululemon Align pants now come in a wide-leg version. This high-rise flare option has a hidden pop of color at the waistband and overlapping side slits.
12. Trusty Tee: A relaxed crewneck tee will always be a go-to choice, and we love that this one comes in two new colors and one returning favorite. It’s mostly cotton makeup and four-way stretch guarantees all-day comfort.
13. Safe Slides: Whether you’re headed to a workout class or just want an easy shoe, these slip-on woven slides make it simple. The upper strap is plush without any seams in contact with your feet, so yes, they really are that comfortable.
14. Daily Dress: You already love the built-in shelf bra on the lululemon Align Dress, but it just got a sweet upgrade. The better shorts liner is 4 inches long with drop-in pockets and an open-back waistband for bathroom breaks.
15. Color of the Season: For those chilly mornings, we’re snagging the Scuba Full-Zip Hoodie that comes in the new Matcha Magic color. It has useful features, like thumbholes, a hidden card sleeve, ribbed panels and more.
Entertainment
His Sons Shine, Family Absences Spark Buzz
Whew, roomies… all eyes were on the Michael Jackson biopic premiere, and the Jackson family definitely showed up—but not without a few noticeable moments that have folks talking. From fashion tributes to family pull-ups, the red carpet gave what it needed to give—but y’all already know the internet clocked everything. And let’s just say… while some showed up and showed out, others had folks asking, “Now wait a minute…”
RELATED: Michael Jackson’s Former Family Friends Reportedly Sue His Estate For Alleged Sex Trafficking & Abuse
Prince & Bigi Jackson Turn Heads At ‘Michael’ Premiere
Prince Jackson and Bigi Jackson, formerly known as “Blanket,” stepped out and had folks doing a double-take as they made a rare red carpet appearance at the ‘Michael’ film premiere in Berlin. The brothers came through channeling their dad, Michael Jackson, with Prince rocking a sharp black suit paired with a red shirt and tie, while Bigi added his own tribute with gold details and an armband featuring one of MJ’s iconic poses. And they didn’t pull up solo either—Roomies, it was definitely a family affair with Jackie, Jermaine, and Marlon Jackson in the building, plus Jaafar, Jermajesty, and Randy Jackson Jr. all showing love for the King of Pop.
Fans Question Who Showed Up—And Who Didn’t
Fans wasted no time running to The Shade Room’s Instagram comment section—and whew, they went IN. Some were simply asking where Paris Jackson was. Meanwhile, others joked that Janet Jackson probably said, “Leave me out of this one.” And of course, a few folks couldn’t help but side-eye Jermaine Jackson, saying he was moving like he was the star of the night
One Instagram user @aphilly92 asked, “Where’s Paris, Janet, Latoya???“
This Instagram user @laffordj shared, “Michael would be SO PLEASED seeing everyone roasting tf outta Jermaine!!!😂😂”
And, Instagram user @vickyy.vickyyy said, “omgeeeee look at Blanket😩😩😩❤️❤️”
Meanwhile, Instagram user @cxaxrxexe wrote, “Yall making fun of Jermaine but he was ten toes down out of EVERYBODY during the trial. Iykyk ✈️🏃🏾♂️💨”
While Instagram user @sittinpretti83 added, “Baby, they beat Jermaine’s mug zoooooown!!! Got him looking like the BADDEST of em all!“
Finally, Instagram user @mista_posh commented, “Janet said take me out the groupchat 😂😂”
Paris Jackson’s Absence Sparks Questions At Premiere
Now y’all already know the internet was watching closely. And, it didn’t take long for folks to notice that Paris Jackson was nowhere to be found. Instead of hitting the red carpet, Paris was spotted back in L.A., posted up in West Hollywood, and casually smoking with a friend, which had fans raising eyebrows. But let’s be real, her absence didn’t totally shock some folks, especially since she’s been pretty vocal about not fully rocking with the biopic and even called out parts of the script that didn’t sit right with her.
While she’s since smoothed things over with Colman Domingo, she’s still reportedly at odds with the estate’s executors, John Branca and John McClain, even blaming them for issues with the film’s production. And to make things even more noticeable, Janet and LaToya Jackson were also missing, leaving fans side-eyeing who showed up—and who clearly kept their distance.
RELATED: Janet Jackson’s Timeless Glow Steals The Show In New All-White Look (PHOTOS)
What Do You Think Roomies?
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