Entertainment
The 10 Best Films of the 1990s, Ranked
If there is one decade that redefined the Hollywood blockbuster, it was the 1990s. The movies of the decade mixed profoundly poignant and artistic films with popcorn flicks that got butts in the seats, slaughtering box office numbers in unimaginable ways. Animated films were no longer just for kids, as horror movies were no longer just a niche genre. Needless to say, the ’90s were an integral era for the trajectory of cinema.
We are embarking on a near-impossible task of celebrating the ten best films of the 1990s. With so many movies to pick from in the ten-year span, selecting ten required intense deliberation. To make this list, the movie should have a healthy mix of artistic merit, a sense of universal adoration, iconic performances, and a lasting impact on the future, as well as pop culture. There are certainly many films that could have found their way here, but these ten are simply the best.
10
‘Fargo’ (1996)
Crime thrillers were all the rage in the ‘90s, but what about infusing some black comedy into it? You get the simply sublime Fargo. Written, directed, produced, and edited by Joel and Ethan Coen, Fargo tells the story of Jerry Lundegaard (William H. Macy), a desperate car salesman in debt. He hires two thugs, Gaear Grimsrud and Carl Showalter (Peter Stormare and Steve Buscemi), to kidnap his wife, Jean (Kristin Rudrüd), to extort a large ransom from his wealthy father-in-law, Wade Gustafson (Harve Presnell). The plan goes wrong when the criminals murder a state trooper, drawing the focus of a pregnant police chief, Marge Gunderson (Frances McDormand). Brilliantly blending dark comedy, brutal crime drama, and unique Midwestern culture into a completely original story, Fargo brought a truly entertaining experience to the screen while subverting expectations.
Often in crime films, the story centers on an invincible hero and a mastermind villain. That’s not the case in Fargo. Instead of a slick, mastermind criminal villain, the plot is driven by incompetent, desperate, and pathetic men. It allows the central theme of greed to take center stage. The movie takes a tragic, botched kidnapping plot and injects absurd, pitch-black humor without making light of the genuine horror. The Coens manage to infuse the perfect tone into a serious story by ensuring the locale and its locals are genuine. They may seem silly with their accents and Midwest niceties, but that’s part of the charm that makes it a shocking series of events. Crime stories don’t need to be told in seedy underbellies of big metropolises. The Coens were cemented as defining voices in cinema thanks to Fargo. The film won two Academy Awards, for Best Actress for McDormand and Best Original Screenplay, heightening its legacy and rewriting the true crime formula. Fargo has lived beyond its initial release, paving the way for one of the greatest anthology television series.
9
‘Pulp Fiction’ (1994)
The rules of cinema were shattered when Quentin Tarantino released Pulp Fiction. Impacting pop culture unlike any film of its kind, Pulp Fiction served as a touchstone of the decade. The nonlinear narrative tells a tale of crime, violence, and redemption in Los Angeles. Two hitmen, Vincent Vega and Jules Winnfield (John Travolta and Samuel L. Jackson) working for mob boss Marsellus Wallace (Ving Rhames) retrieve a stolen briefcase, survive a miraculous near-death shooting, and accidentally kill an informant. Vega is told to take Marsellus’s wife, Mia (Uma Thurman), out for a fun evening, which turns dangerous when Mia suffers an accidental drug overdose. Meanwhile, an aging boxer, Butch Coolidge (Bruce Willis), is paid by Marsellus to throw a fight but wins instead. He risks his life to return for his family’s treasured gold watch and ends up saving Marsellus from a dangerous situation. And then, of course, there are a pair of diner robbers, Pumpkin and Honey Bunny (Tim Roth and Amanda Plummer). Presenting the chapters out of order, the story starts and ends at a diner during an armed robbery, showing how Jules chooses a path of peace over violence. In the process, it established Tarantino as a filmmaking genius, as every element of Pulp Fiction was utilized perfectly.
Pulp Fiction isn’t a mind-bending puzzle, but its non-linear structure tasks the audience with piecing the timeline together as the film goes on. In doing so, it subverts expectations so that major characters in one segment become minor players in another, as Tarantino proves how we are all somehow connected in this very small world. The dialogue is some of the best in his entire body of work. From the rhythmic word symphony to meandering conversations about a Royale with cheese, it comes before high-stakes moments, then blurs the line between high art and lowbrow pop culture references. The film mixes elements of classic gangster films, neo-noir, westerns, and exploitation cinema as it balances shocking, absurd violence with pitch-black comedy. Pulp Fiction boasts one of the greatest movie soundtracks of the decade. Pulp Fiction redefined cool in the ‘90s as it radically altered the movie landscape, as independent projects of a small $8 million budget could achieve a $213 million global cultural phenomenon status. Pulp Fiction inspired a wave of imitators trying to capture its exact blend of stylized violence and cool detachment, but none could achieve the same acclaim.
8
‘The Silence of the Lambs’ (1991)
Horror films tended to be pushed to the side when it came to the discussion of awards. And then The Silence of the Lambs changed the conversation forever. Adapted from Thomas Harris‘ 1988 novel, The Silence of the Lambs follows FBI trainee Clarice Starling (Jodie Foster), who is tasked with interviewing the imprisoned, brilliant cannibalistic psychiatrist Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins). The FBI hopes Lecter’s unique psychological insights can help them track down another active serial killer nicknamed “Buffalo Bill” (Ted Levine), who skins his female victims. Lecter agrees to offer psychological clues and profile Buffalo Bill, but only if Clarice reveals painful personal details about her own childhood—specifically her trauma involving slaughtered lambs on a farm. Blending sharp psychological tension in an airtight script with pristine performances, not only was The Silence of the Lambs a brilliant horror film, it rightly walked away with the Big Five at the Academy Awards— Best Picture, Director, Actor, Actress, and Screenplay. Instead of physical action spectacles, the core of the film rests on psychological deconstruction through dialogue and locked-room mental sparring.
Even if you’re weary of horror films, The Silence of the Lambs transcends genres for a truly riveting film. Director Jonathan Demme’s usage of tight close-ups and having actors look straight into the camera exudes a tension that’s inescapable. It also puts the audience in Clarice’s perspective, making viewers share her fear and isolation in a man’s world. With such detail in the script of real FBI training and consultation, the police work feels authentic. The characters, lifted from the novel, are truly remarkable. Foster does remarkable work, especially against the monsters that are Buffalo Bill and Lecter. It’s the latter who has haunted our nightmares ever since. Hopkins literally transformed into the cannibalistic character, cementing him into the villain hall of fame. The Silence of the Lamb proved that a dark, genre-based thriller could achieve the highest level of artistic and critical prestige. The doors that this film opened will never be closed again.
7
‘Goodfellas’ (1990)
It had seemed that The Godfather franchise would serve as the epitome of gangster films, but then Goodfellas arrived, and it rivaled that moniker. Where The Godfather used the mafia as an almost mythological saga, Goodfellas provided ground-level authenticity that has since been unmatched. Directed by Martin Scorsese in one of his best films, Goodfellas is based on Nicholas Pileggi‘s 1985 nonfiction book Wiseguy. It tells the true story of Mafia associate Henry Hill (Ray Liotta) from 1955 to 1980, tracking his rise in the underworld, his marriage to Karen Hill (Lorraine Bracco), and his partnerships with mobsters Jimmy Conway (Robert De Niro) and Tommy DeVito (Joe Pesci) before his ultimate downfall and entry into the witness protection program. Goodfellas treats organized crime not as a distant myth, but as a living, breathing, high-velocity subculture. In turn, it treats breathless, innovative editing and iconic tracking shots with raw, grounded performances to show the seductive highs and brutal reality of the mob.
Scorsese takes Pileggi’s story and elevates it to the next level. Through his direction, the film has an electric, restless pace that mirrors the addictive nature of the lifestyle. With one of the film’s most iconic moments, Scorsese puts the audience in Henry’s shoes through a continuous tracking shot that takes viewers through the kitchens and back alleys into the club. It made the film visceral in a way other mobster movies had not. The pacing of the film is kinetic thanks to Thelma Schoonmaker’s editing. The legendary editor used sharp, rhythmic cuts that matched the diegetic music and quick dialogue. By the time the story reached its final act, it simulated a cocaine-fueled paranoia breakdown with absolute precision. Though it does make way for the appeal of the life, it deconstructs it. Goodfellas ends up showing the mafia as a hollow, paranoid, and destructive trap. Goodfellas has remained a rewatchable crime epic that revolutionized the genre.
6
‘The Lion King’ (1994)
If you’re a millennial, then you most certainly identify the ‘90s as the Disney Animated Renaissance. On the brink of near extinction, Disney sought a resurgence in their animated features, and they found it with a string of instant classics. Though this slot could be offered to another film, the very best of the era was none other than The Lion King. The iconic film tells the story of Simba (Matthew Broderick/Jonathan Taylor Thomas), a young lion cub destined to be king of the Pride Lands. After his treacherous uncle Scar (Jeremy Irons) murders his father, Mufasa (James Earl Jones), Simba is manipulated into exile. He grows up carefree with new friends before returning home to face his past, defeat Scar, and reclaim his rightful throne. Inspired by William Shakespeare’s Hamlet, The Lion King blends a timeless epic narrative with breathtaking hand-drawn animation, legendary musical numbers from Elton John and Tim Rice, and deep, universal themes about life, death, and responsibility that resonate across generations. It bravely addressed heavy, complex themes in a way that resonated deeply with both children and adults while still allowing moments of joy and levity.
Though Disney is notorious for offering parents in their films, never had there been an explanation for the power of loss like in The Lion King. It addressed the circle of life, teaching that existence requires balance and acceptance of our place in the natural world. The Lion King may be a coming-of-age story of a lion cub, but it was more universal than that. It taught children to see themselves in young Simba, while adults deeply connect with the duties and heartbreaks of Mufasa. Hans Zimmer infused an emotional, sweeping African-influenced orchestral score, but the film will forever be connected to the Broadway-style production numbers. From “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” to Hakuna Matata,” there’s not a weak song on the narrative-pushing soundtrack. The Lion King arrived at a time when hand-drawn animation was being married with 3D computer animation. But it was the hand-drawn backgrounds and innovative multi-plane shots that captured the majesty of the African savanna. The Lion King became a crucial cultural milestone whose legacy still rules today. From a Broadway musical that has gone global to a live-action remake, The Lion King remains proudly in our hearts.
5
‘Schindler’s List’ (1993)
Stories about the Holocaust are never going to be an easy pill to swallow. The result of the event will forever be tied to horrid individuals, but in the complete darkness was momentary light. That’s the story of Schindler’s List. Based on the historical novel Schindler’s Ark by Thomas Keneally, the Steven Spielberg film tells the true story of Oskar Schindler (Liam Neeson), a German businessman and Nazi party member who, with the help of a Jewish accountant named Itzhak Stern (Ben Kingsley), saved over 1,100 Jewish people from death in concentration camps during World War II by employing them in his factories. Combining documentary-style realism with profound moral storytelling, Spielberg’s film transformed a vast historical tragedy into an intimate human experience about the capacity for both absolute evil and profound goodness. Shot in black-and-white, the movie exudes the stark, haunting look of 1940s newsreels. But when a pop of red comes in, it’s a recognition of something extraordinarily powerful.
The film features some of the best acting of the decade. Neeson takes on a selfish, money-hungry factory owner who slowly transforms into a selfless protector. It’s an evolution that is earned and deeply human. Opposing Schindler is Ralph Fiennes as Nazi officer Amon Göth. He delivers a chilling unpredictability that avoids playing evil as an over-the-top cartoonish monster, instead presenting it with casual ease. Schindler’s List is more than just a profound historical drama; it’s a pristinely directed masterpiece. Spielberg refused to look away from brutal acts, using hand-held cameras to place the viewer directly inside the terrifying reality of the Holocaust. With stark black-and-white imagery, the rare, single flash of color of the girl in the red dress (Oliwia Dabrowska) serves as a powerful symbol. It draws the eye and breaks the gray monotony to show that every single life holds unique, irreplaceable value. That striking imagery cements the film’s legacy. Before this film, major Hollywood studios largely avoided dramatizing the Holocaust. Spielberg brought the horrors of the camps to a massive global audience. Schindler’s List won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Spielberg’s first Best Director trophy, cementing him as a cinematic auteur.
4
‘The Matrix’ (1999)
The cinematic legacy had nearly been set moving into the new millennium, but the Wachowskis said not so fast with the release of their 1999 megahit The Matrix. Not only did it set the tone for the future of movie-making, but it also revolutionized science fiction action thrillers forever. The Matrix follows a computer hacker named Neo (Keanu Reeves) who discovers that everyday human life is a fake digital simulation created by evil machines to use human bodies as batteries. Recruited by rebel leaders Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne) and Trinity (Carrie-Anne Moss), Neo learns to bend the simulation’s rules to fight the system. As powerful security programs called Agents hunt the rebels inside the simulation, Neo takes on Agent Smith (Hugo Weaving) as he realizes his true power as The One to destroy the system. Through mind-bending revolutionary visual storytelling and deep philosophical questions about reality, identity, and technology, The Matrix emerged as a groundbreaking blockbuster action thriller.
The Matrix is a visual stunner. The Wachowskis used bullet-time, a 360-degree array of still cameras to freeze time mid-action, creating a brand-new visual language for blockbuster. It was such a shockingly cool effect, we all tried to do it in real time. Spoiler: it doesn’t work. Rather than typical action choreography, The Matrix employed wire-fu with traditional kung fu, earning its own fight vocabulary in the process. Through its cinematography, the green digital tint inside the simulation versus the stark, cold tones of the real world defined a distinct cyberpunk style. Once you’re enthralled by the visuals and actions, The Matrix opens up the conversation about elements of Eastern philosophy, cyberpunk literature, computer gaming, and world mythologies to build a cohesive universe in which to play. Amid the digital code and flying bullets, the film’s driving force is human connection and belief. The Matrix arrived at the exact right cultural moment, capturing late-90s anxieties about the rise of the internet, virtual reality, and encroaching technology. Creating a lexicon, including everyday phrases like “taking the red pill” or asking if we are “living in the Matrix,” the film launched a franchise while establishing itself as an important film in the genre.
3
‘Toy Story’ (1995)
We always imagined what might happen to our toys when we left them alone. In 1995, Pixar answered the question. Toy Story tells of a secret world where toys come to life when humans leave. The plot follows Sheriff Woody (Tom Hanks), a cowboy doll who gets jealous when a flashy new action figure named Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) replaces him as their owner Andy’s (John Morris) favorite toy. After a scuffle, both toys get trapped by a destructive neighbor and must work together to escape. Defining the timeless phrase “you’ve got a friend in me” through song and plot, Toy Story became a wonderfully whimsical and emotionally resonant buddy comedy about jealousy, identity, and companionship. Toy Story became the first entirely computer-animated feature film; it was so beautifully crafted and well-received that it officially ushered in a new era of animation.
Pixar made history with their animation style. By selecting plastic toys and smooth surfaces, it matched the limits of 1995 software, making the animation look tangible and real. Because of that, Toy Story looked groundbreaking. And now, three decades later, the same style is used, proving that Pixar’s art will always feel timeless. Toy Story was rich in its characters. They may be toys, but they were certainly filled with relatable human emotion. Woody is initially driven by bitter ego and jealousy, making him complex rather than purely good. Buzz Lightyear goes through a hilarious and heartbreaking existential crisis when he realizes he is a mass-produced toy, not a space ranger. The film perfectly captures the fear of replacement and the pure value of friendship. Toy Story also reflected the changing of the guard in animation from traditional animation to computer graphics. At the end of the day, the cross-generational appeal has made it one of the most beloved films of all time. Children connected with the magic of toys coming to life, while adults deeply resonated with themes of growing up, change, and the fear of being replaced. Now, five films deep in the flagship franchise, watching the films today evokes a new set of emotions. No matter what, they will require a tissue or two. Best to have a box handy.
2
‘Jurassic Park’ (1993)
Growing up, we all had a fascination with dinosaurs. Before 1993, it was likely through going to the movies. After that year, it was squarely thanks to Steven Spielberg and Jurassic Park. Taken from Michael Crichton’s novel, the story follows a billionaire, John Hammond (Richard Attenborough), who builds a secret island theme park populated by cloned dinosaurs. When a disgruntled worker Dennis Nedry (Wayne Knight) shuts down the power to steal embryos, the cages fail. Dr. Alan Grant (Sam Neill), Ellie Sattler (Laura Dern), and Ian Malcolm (Jeff Goldblum) must then fight to survive as fierce predators roam free. A genuine cinematic masterpiece that paired revolutionary visuals with a genius script about the dangers of trying to play God with nature, Jurassic Park brought the same wonderment Spielberg introduced in his space films, making it instantly timeless. This film may be single-handedly responsible for the rise of the popcorn movie blockbuster.
Jurassic Park made our wildest imaginations come true with the exceptional dinosaurs. The full-scale dinosaur puppets built by Stan Winston gave actors a real physical presence to react to. And in turn, it all felt incredibly real. The tangibility was simply unmatched at the time. The scope and scale are made grander as the camera angles emphasize the terrifying scale of the creatures and the helplessness of the humans. What made the dinosaurs’ arrival such an incredible moment was that Spielberg delayed the grand reveal, eliciting genuine reactions. This proved to be a masterclass in tension building. By having a sweeping, sunny locale give way to dark, claustrophobic survival moments. When you see the title of a film, an image might pop up. But when John Williams scores your piece, you can hear it when you see the title. Williams provided a legendary musical landscape that moves effortlessly from majestic wonder to mysterious dread. The movie popularized chaos theory and forced pop culture to view dinosaurs as fast, agile animals rather than slow, clumsy monsters. Though the franchise has yet to deliver a sequel or reboot as brilliant as the original, we will always admire where it all started.
1
‘Titanic’ (1997)
At first, the premise of making a big-budget epic inspired by one of the greatest tragedies sounds outlandish. But then we all watched what James Cameron did, and we were simply proven wrong. Titanic is simply the best and most iconic film of the decade. In the modern day, treasure hunters search the ocean floor for a rare blue diamond necklace called the “Heart of the Ocean.” A 100-year-old woman named Rose (Gloria Stuart) sees a drawing of herself on TV and tells the team her life story. Her tale tells of Rose DeWitt Bukater (Kate Winslet), an unhappy young socialite, engaged to the arrogant and snobbish Cal Hockley (Billy Zahn). Jack Dawson (Leonardo DiCaprio) is a free-spirited artist who wins his ticket in a card game. Despite their social classes, the pair begin to fall in love, engaging in the most romantic love story ever told, only for it to be tragically ended by the sinking of the “Ship of Dreams.” Titanic did the unimaginable: the film combined intimate, high-stakes romance with a massive historical disaster told through ground-breaking special effects, meticulous historical detail, and an unforgettable musical score by James Horner featuring the iconic anthem that just so happens to be one of the greatest movie song of all time.
Titanic utilized a common story of forbidden love to serve as an easy hook into the grandeur of the story. Rather than examine multiple individuals on the ship, focusing on Jack and Rose provided an entry point and a pair you simply had to champion. The forbidden love between the free-spirited artist Jack and the constrained upper-class Rose dynamic connects with every generation. The film sharply contrasts the suffocating, rigid expectations of the Edwardian elite with the lively, communal joy of third-class passengers. There was reason to truly emote at the tragedy because you felt for those who weren’t on board for pleasure but saw the journey as a chance for freedom and hope. That pain pivoted into a haunting metaphor for human arrogance, showing nature swiftly dismantling society’s most confident technological achievement. The script is sensational: its first half builds rich character dynamics and dramatic irony, before shifting seamlessly into an unrelenting, terrifying survival thriller. And yes, if you’re as old as I am, you know them based on tape 1 and tape 2 on the VHS set.
Cameron did not skimp on recreating the Titanic. He demanded a massive $200 million budget, built a nearly full-scale replica of the ship in a giant water tank, and pushed digital visual effects forward to honor real historical tragedy with visceral realism. The cultural impact the film made is still felt today. It won 11 Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and became the first film to cross the $1 billion mark globally, proving its enduring cinematic power. It helped Celine Dion earn another iconic track in “My Heart Will Go On.” Together, we now have the stage musical Titanique on Broadway and beyond. A technical marvel. An everlasting romance. Titanic remains a theatrical phenomenon.
Titanic
- Release Date
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December 18, 1997
- Runtime
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194 minutes
- Director
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James Cameron
- Writers
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James Cameron
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Move over, Tom Hanks. Netflix is bringing the novels of Dan Brown to streaming in a new series, and they’ve found a Gilded Age star to fill the shoes of Hanks, who starred in three films as crusading professor Robert Langdon. The series is set to adapt Brown’s latest novel, which has become an international bestseller.
Created by Brown in 2000’s Angels and Demons, Langdon is a professor of symbology (a fictional discipline that studies historical symbols and religious iconography) who frequently finds himself caught up in ancient mysteries and conspiracies. The character really hit the big time in 2003’s The Da Vinci Code, an 80-million-copy-selling mega-hit that was quickly adapted into a blockbuster Ron Howard film starring Hanks as Langdon. Two subsequent films followed, adapting Angels and Demons and the later sequel Inferno, each starring Hanks and directed by Howard. Brown’s novel The Lost Symbol, a prequel to the series, was adapted into a Peacock series of the same name, and starred Ashley Zukerman (Silo) as a younger Langdon; it was cancelled after one season.
Morgan Spector will star as Langdon in the new series, which will be based on Brown’s 2025 novel The Secret of Secrets. The star of series like The Plot Against America and Homeland, Spector currently stars as 19th-century robber baron George Russell in HBO’s hit historical soap opera The Gilded Age. He also stars with Chiara Aurelia in the indie drama Caity, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival this summer. Rebecca Hall is reportedly in talks to star as the show’s female lead; the series can count on her having chemistry with Spector, as the two have been married since 2015. The series, which is as-yet untitled, will be co-created by Brown and Carlton Cuse (Lost); Cuse will write and showrun the series.
What Is ‘The Secret of Secrets’ About?
Published in late 2025, The Secret of Secrets is the sixth novel in Brown’s Langdon series. It takes Langdon to Prague, where his girlfriend, paranormal scientist Katherine Solomon, is set to give a lecture on her research into human consciousness and its survival after death. While there, however, they end up targeted by a sinister subterranean research facility, Threshold, who want to make sure Solomon’s work stays a secret…or else.
Netflix’s adaptation of The Secret of Secrets is in development; no release date has yet been announced. Stay tuned to Collider for future updates.
- Release Date
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May 17, 2006
- Runtime
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149 minutes
- Writers
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Akiva Goldsman, Dan Brown
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Audrey Tautou
Sophie Neveu
Entertainment
Kelly Ripa absent from “Live” after surgery, Mark Consuelos reveals painful details: ‘I know it’s bad’
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“She’s not allowed to talk,” Consuelos said on the air, as Kevin Jonas filled in for his wife and cohost.
Bunnie XO is celebrating the end of a difficult chapter with an extravagant new ride. Days after reportedly finalizing her divorce settlement with Jelly Roll, the 46-year-old podcast host purchased a white Rolls-Royce Cullinan valued at an estimated $500,000. Bunnie documented the expensive purchase on social media while accompanied by 24-year-old reality personality Dylan Wolf, with whom she was recently seen sharing a kiss.
Bunnie shared a video of her visit to the dealership on Instagram, beginning with footage of herself walking toward the building. “Sometimes a girl needs to spoil herself,” read text placed over the clip. After entering the dealership, the “Dumb Blonde” podcast host immediately embraced the hood of the white Rolls-Royce, which had been decorated with a large red bow.
The luxury vehicle featured red leather seats with black trim. Bunnie was filmed inspecting the interior, signing the final paperwork, and receiving her keys before the vehicle pulled out of the dealership parking lot. She captioned the post with a crying face emoji.
Although the exact price of Bunnie’s vehicle was not disclosed, a Rolls-Royce Cullinan can reportedly cost anywhere from the mid-$400,000 range to approximately $600,000.
When one Instagram user appeared to criticize the purchase, Bunnie quickly defended her decision to splurge after a challenging year. “bc I bought a car after having one of the hardest years of my life? If you a hater, just say that sis,” she responded.
Jelly Roll Will Reportedly Pay Bunnie A Lump Sum
The purchase came days after Bunnie and Jelly Roll reportedly reached an agreement resolving their divorce. According to TMZ, the former couple will divide several valuable assets, including an aircraft, vehicles, homes, and their respective intellectual properties. Other details of the settlement will remain confidential.
The country singer will reportedly make a one-time lump-sum payment to Bunnie, although the amount has not been disclosed. The agreement also reportedly prevents either party from making further alimony claims. It is said to include a provision prohibiting the former spouses from speaking negatively about each other publicly.
Jelly Roll filed for divorce on May 18, listing May 9 as the date of separation and citing “irreconcilable differences.” Sources characterized the decision to separate as “mutual.” The couple married in 2016 and would have celebrated their tenth wedding anniversary in August.
Dylan Wolf Joined Bunnie For Her Lavish Purchase
Wolf appeared alongside Bunnie as she collected her new Rolls-Royce, fueling further interest in their apparent relationship. The “Calabasas Confidential” personality was seen standing beside Bunnie inside the dealership, where they laughed together while she completed the purchase.
Earlier this month, the two were filmed kissing while celebrating the Fourth of July at Jelly Roll’s Goodnight Nashville bar. Footage obtained by TMZ showed Bunnie and Wolf seated beside each other in a rooftop VIP section. As music played and blue lights flashed around them, the pair leaned in and shared a brief kiss. They subsequently appeared together in a TikTok posted to Wolf’s account while teasing an episode of Bunnie’s podcast.
Bunnie has not publicly defined the nature of their relationship, but she previously made it clear that she was prepared to enjoy dating again following her separation. “I’m ready to have fun. I want women to know that you can reclaim your power, you can be sexy again,” she said.
Bunnie XO Says Jelly Roll Remains Her ‘Best Friend’
Despite ending their marriage, Bunnie has repeatedly maintained that she and Jelly Roll remain close. She described the singer as her “best friend” on her podcast and confirmed that he is “dating again.” Bunnie insisted that she is “happy for him” and said they are “ending this marriage on the best possible terms.” She also praised her former husband for “taking care of her in the divorce.”
The former couple first crossed paths in 2015 but initially remained friends because Bunnie was in another relationship. They became romantically involved after that relationship ended and married at the Little White Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas the following year.
They briefly separated in 2018 after Jelly Roll had an affair. He later described cheating on Bunnie as “one of the worst moments” of his life. In 2023, the couple returned to the same Las Vegas chapel and exchanged vows again.
Bunnie has also claimed that she and Jelly Roll still intend to have a child together after spending the past two years trying to conceive through IVF, despite their decision to divorce.
Bunnie Responds To Rumors Of A Bitter Split
Questions about the former couple’s relationship intensified after Jelly Roll’s 18-year-old daughter, Bailee Ann DeFord, made cryptic remarks online. During a recent livestream, the teenager claimed the internet would “f-cking crumble” when she eventually “tells the truth” about her father’s divorce. The remarks prompted speculation that the split might be more contentious than Bunnie and Jelly Roll had publicly suggested.
However, Bunnie dismissed that interpretation after a fan referenced Bailee’s livestream in the comments section of one of her TikTok videos. “Nothing to clear up. She didn’t say anything lol ppl just wanna run w a narrative. Love my baby forever,” Bunnie replied.
For now, Bunnie appears focused on moving forward, and her new Rolls-Royce ensures she will be doing it in luxury.
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Whoopi Goldberg, Joy Behar, Sunny Hostin, and more are absent from the Hot Topics table for at least a month.
Denis Villeneuve’s Dune: Part Three is shaping up to be one of the biggest films of the year, bringing the acclaimed sci-fi saga to a close with the long-awaited adaptation of Frank Herbert’s Dune Messiah. With some of the biggest names in Hollywood all returning, anticipation for the December blockbuster has continued to build following its first trailers.
But that doesn’t mean everyone has a meaty part this time around, and one of the trilogy’s biggest stars has just devastated us all by confirming that that her return is considerably smaller than many fans may have been expecting, despite being one of the franchise’s most important figures.
Speaking to ExtraTV during San Diego Comic-Con, Rebecca Ferguson revealed that Lady Jessica’s appearance in Dune: Part Three is limited to a single sequence.
“Mate, I’ve got one scene, and I think you’ve seen it. It’s literally in the trailer, but I can’t wait to see it. The script’s amazing.”
This does sort of confirm what Ferguson had hinted at earlier this year when she said that she’d only “dipped [her] toe in” the production. She also admitted she originally believed Lady Jessica wouldn’t appear at all before Villeneuve ultimately decided to include the character.
The lone scene is widely believed to be the exchange featured in the film’s first teaser, where Paul Atreides asks his mother, “How did father do it?” before Jessica replies, “Your father never started a war.”
Why Lady Jessica’s Role Is So Much Smaller
The update is unlikely to surprise readers of Frank Herbert’s Dune Messiah, which significantly reduces Lady Jessica’s role while shifting its focus toward the consequences of Paul’s reign and the galaxy-spanning religious war carried out in his name.
Earlier this year, Ferguson admitted returning to the production for such a brief appearance felt unusual after being one of the trilogy’s leading characters.
“That was a weird feeling. Walking onto a set that you know so well, and knowing that you don’t have a part of it.”
She also acknowledged experiencing “a lot of FOMO,” before adding that she ultimately accepted she simply had to “serve the story.” Despite her limited screen time, Ferguson has repeatedly praised Villeneuve’s screenplay, describing it as “amazing.”
Alongside Timothée Chalamet (Wonka) as Paul Atreides, the film stars Zendaya (Challengers) as Chani, Florence Pugh (Thunderbolts *) as Princess Irulan, Anya Taylor-Joy (Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga) as Alia Atreides, Jason Momoa (Aquaman) as Duncan Idaho, Javier Bardem (No Country for Old Men) as Stilgar, and Josh Brolin (Avengers: Endgame) as Gurney Halleck.
Dune: Part Three arrives in cinemas on 18 December 2026.
- Release Date
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December 18, 2026
- Director
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Denis Villeneuve
- Writers
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Jon Spaihts, Denis Villeneuve, Frank Herbert
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We don’t know if you’ve noticed, but celebrities left and right have been spotted wearing breezy summer pieces with delicate lace details. We saw it on Demi Moore while she vacationed in Paris and Sarah Michelle Gellar posing in Bandol — but the style goes beyond Europe. Jennifer Lopez also donned the look while lunching at the Beverly Hills Hotel and Dua Lipa, who stunned as she left an NYC recording studio. Clearly the design detail spans across continents, cities and ages, and thus, we’re diving headfirst into the look.
The ‘It’ girl trend is equal parts flattering, dainty and sexy, which is why a little bit of lace makes a big statement. Celebs are wearing lace-trimmed dresses, blouses, skirts and beyond. Naturally, we’re following suit with these flattering numbers that are bound to turn heads. We pulled picks from Free People, Anthropologie, Gap and more. Another great note? You don’t need a rich mom budget to look like you’re one; finds start as low as $15.
Lace-Trimmed Summer Looks, As Inspired by Celebs
1. Our Favorite: We’re kind of in love with this lace-trimmed tank top that features the pretty fabric around the neckline and straps. The loose fit is also so ideal for warm summer days.
2. Designer-Inspired: Don’t these wide-leg pants look just like ones from a high-end designer? We credit the loose silhouette, drawstring waist and lace detail at the pant hem.
3. Everyday Ease: Add a bit of lace to your weekday wardrobe with this comfy tank top. Sure, the floral fabric feels feminine, however, the square neckline veers modern.
4. Vintage Vibes: The V-neckline adorned with lace is gorgeous alone, but when paired with the floral dress pattern? Just ‘wow.’ It feels elevated and easy-going at the same time, so you might wear it every weekend from now ’til September.
5. Comfort MVP: There’s nothing better than having a go-to dress in your arsenal. This floral embroidered style could be yours; it’s loose, features stretchy smocking and looks positively chic.
6. Celeb-Approved: Gellar’s elegant lacey outfit made Us instantly want something a little elevated. This satin-like maxi dress is the solution. It’s in the same color wheelhouse as the celeb’s choice, but looks a bit more appropriate for a summer wedding.
7. Pop of Color: Bubble gum pink is fun and statement-making, so be warned: all eyes will be on you. In addition to the bright hue, the tie-shoulder dress has comfortable smocking that hugs the body in the best way.
8. Same But Different: If you like the smocked detail from the dress above, take a look at this number. The peplum top has all-over smocking that feels just right on, while also showing off your ehem assets.
9. No Brainer: Farmers’ markets and errand runs call for breezy outfits, and this lace-trimmed mini is just the thing to wear. The breezy silhouette and light fabric allows air to filter through on balmy days. Plus, the cinched waist totally gives you an hourglass appearance.
10. French Countryside: Give off major cottagecore vibes with this top-rated mini dress from Free People. We especially like the lace paneling on the shoulders, sleeve hems and button-down front.
11. So Trendy: Cool girls are wearing babydoll dresses and tops on the regular; this crop top pick does the style justice with an elevated lacey twist.
12. Almost Gone: Shoppers are buying up these lace shorts in droves, and it’s easy to see why. The lace, eyelet detail extends a little beyond the shorts’ hem, giving it that farm girl-like appearance that’s so cute.
13. Posh Polish: You may already have a button-down shirt in your closet, but we’re willing to bet it doesn’t look as cool as this Exquise one. If you ask Us, it feels almost vintage due to the lace neckline, front details and ruffle hem.
14. Quite the Charmer: Selena Gomez wore a lace-hem skirt to a concert, so we’re wearing lace-hemmed skirts to, well, everywhere. This Anthropologie midi has a rich, silky appearance that looks so elegant with a T-shirt, cami or cardigan come fall.
15. Boho Babe: Etherial and fairy-like are two words to describe this bohemian-style cropped top, which has an asymmetrical hem, ultra-lightweight fabric and floral lace appliqués all over.
Relaxed, oversized bags have their time and place, but if there’s one thing we’ve noticed from A-listers, it’s that said time is not now. Cool girls and celebrities like Katie Holmes, Jennifer Lopez and Lupita Nyong’o are all ditching floppy totes for structured handle handbags this summer, and we’re following suit. The trendy summer style […]
Police searched for a second suspect Monday (July 27) after gunfire erupted at a crowded food festival in Seattle. The shooting left three people dead and four others wounded, including a toddler. Authorities have already detained one suspect.
RELATED: Prayers Up! Tucson Mass Shooting Reportedly Leaves Nine Injured As Suspect Is Taken Into Custody (VIDEO)
What Happened At The Seattle Food Festival?
The gunfire erupted around 6 p.m. Sunday in the waning hours of the Bite of Seattle, an annual three-day festival. It features hundreds of food and retail vendors, as well as performers. A large number of police and emergency crews responded to the shooting and began evacuating the area around the Seattle Center campus.
Ultimately, two people died at the scene below Seattle’s Space Needle. Also, a third died at a hospital. They were described as two men, ages 19 and 44, and a 56-year-old woman. Also, the four wounded, including a 2-year-old boy, were hospitalized and in stable condition early Monday, police said. The rest of the wounded were adults.
Assistant Seattle Police Chief Tyrone Davis couldn’t say if any of the victims were involved in the confrontation.
Police Searching For Second Suspect
Investigators believe the two suspects were shooting at each other on Sunday. Chief Tyrone Davis told a news conference Sunday night that there was no ongoing threat to the public, despite one suspect being at large. Police did not have a description of the missing suspect, he said. “We’re still trying to figure this out,” Davis said. Police did not immediately respond to phone and email messages from The Associated Press early Monday.
Dozens of officers were providing security at the event and some saw one of the suspects firing, Chief Davis said. One suspect surrendered at the scene, but the other fled. Law enforcement searched the grounds, but couldn’t locate them.
Witnesses Describe The Hectic Scene Following Shooting
Faith Adia Hunter said, per AP, she and her friends had just gotten food from a crepe vendor when gunfire broke out. She realized a shooter was near them. She and others found shelter in the nearby Seattle Children’s Museum.
“We were right next to him when it started so we took off running,” Hunter said. “So we took off running too into the building with the crowd.”
In the chaos, many vendors ran toward the exits, abandoning their food stands. Hours afterward, some lingered outside the police tape, wondering when they would be allowed to return to collect their tents, food and cooking gear. For example, Roberto Ramirez, a vendor at the event, said he heard what sounded like firecrackers before people began yelling “shooter” and running.
“Suddenly everything was empty,” he said. “People were freaked out.”
After the initial panic, new guests continued to arrive, unaware of what had happened, and were told by police to leave, Ramirez said.
Estan Wakonabo said he and his girlfriend were at the festival, waiting in line for a photo booth. All of a sudden, he was shoved from behind, and he turned to see a rush of people fleeing.
“People were hiding, were pushing, people were falling on the ground, baby strollers were falling,” Wakonabo said, adding that was when he heard gunshots. “Once I heard a ‘pop, pop, pop,’ that’s when I knew it was a shooter,” he said.
After he escorted his girlfriend to safety, he returned to the scene to take photos and saw multiple victims on the ground, Wakonabo said.
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Associated Press journalists Gene Johnson, Manuel Valdes, Lindsey Wasson, Annika Wolters and Christopher Weber contributed to this report.
What Do You Think Roomies?
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Summertime in Copenhagen is unmatched. Not only are the vibes high, but the fashion is impeccable. Copenhagen Fashion Week hasn’t even happened yet, but on my recent trip, people were already stepping out in their most stylish looks. I’ve always admired the Danes’ fashion sense, and I’m basing my summer wardrobe solely on the top trends I saw. You’d be smart to do the same. Embrace a breezy Scandinavian style this summer and beyond with the city’s most popular fashion trends below.
4 Copenhagen Fashion Trends I’m Copying for the Rest of the Summer
Flip-Flops
1. Supported Style: These sleek leather flip-flops aren’t just stylish; they’re also extremely comfortable thanks to the memory foam footbed.
2. Gentle Knots: Copenhagen is a walking city, and while many flip-flops cause blisters, the fashionable girls avoided sores by wearing ones that had soft fabric straps like these.
3. Color Pop: I noticed Danish women kept their outfits pretty neutral, but opted to add a dash of color with bright flip-flops.
4. Elevated: Early aughts styles have reached Scandinavia! I saw countless people wearing chunky wedge flip-flops for extra height.
My favorite part of warm-weather dressing is knowing that stylish summer shoes can instantly make an outfit feel fresh. As a shopping editor, I’ve seen the most comfortable sandals, supportive slides and easy everyday sneakers disappear fast once the season kicks in, making now the smartest time to shop before your size is gone. To […]
Boxy Cotton Sundresses
5. Let it Flow: Looser dresses are the move in Copenhagen (probably because they’re easy to bike in!). This chiffon maxi comes in so many colors and matches the joyful vibes of the Scandinavian city.
6. Gingham Dreams: I thought the gingham craze was just an American thing — my time in Copenhagen proved otherwise. The Danes adore the pattern, especially on flowy dresses.
7. Short ‘n Sweet: While maxi dresses were more popular than minis, the few people who wore minis kept them loose and breezy, just like this cotton trapeze dress.
8. Delicate Details: The ruched square neckline and embroidered skirt on this cotton maxi make it so versatile — style it with sneakers (or flip-flops) for daytime wear or slip on some heels for special evenings.
Stylish Capris
9. A Little Flick: There’s something about the slightly flared hem on these stretchy capris that feels effortlessly stylish.
10. Pretty Pattern: Polka dots are the unofficial pattern of Copenhagen — I saw them everywhere. That’s why I immediately bought these dotted capri pants when I got home.
11. So Playful: So many capris look like carbon copies of each other. Luckily, the feminine ruffle hem on this style makes them stand out.
12. Keep it Chill: One thing I loved most about the fashion in Copenhagen was how women prioritized more comfortable, looser silhouettes — even when it came to capris. This relaxed style features a wider leg opening so the pants won’t tug or bunch.
Boho Tops
13. All the Lace: With three different types of lace, this whimsical boho tank feels so romantic and is a total statement piece.
14. Go Asymmetrical: The Danes’ high fashion prowess was on full display with asymmetrical tops like this smocked style that looked like it just came from a Copenhagen Fashion Week runway.
15. Show Some Skin: Copenhagen’s weather is cold, dark and rainy most of the year. So in the summer, people really take advantage of the sun by wearing strapless tops, just like this embroidered floral design.
16. Vintage-Inspired: Thrifting is unmatched in Copenhagen, and people will easily believe you scored this vintage-inspired lace vest during your trip.
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When temperatures climb, the last thing I want is an outfit that feels heavy, clingy or fussy. That’s why I reach for lightweight seersucker every summer; the puckered fabric naturally lifts away from the skin, making it feel cool, breathable and effortlessly polished, even on the hottest days. From easy-going matching sets to chic maxi […]
While stars like Tom Cruise, Matt Damon and Tom Holland have dominated the headlines throughout 2026, one actor has quietly put together the most commercially successful year in Hollywood. And we’re laughing thinking about how random the whole thing is but, between a record-breaking Christopher Nolan epic and the year’s biggest animated blockbuster, of all people, Benny Safdie has amassed a box office haul that no other performer has been able to match.
Yes, the man whose face you remember dripping with suntan lotion in front of an atomic explosion in Oppenheimer has scaled new box office heights, and is looking at well over $2 billion in takings — and we’re not even in August, yet! It’s even funnier because Safdie isn’t the leading man in any of the films. Instead, he’s become the year’s ultimate supporting player, with two hugely successful projects combining to give him an extraordinary run at the global box office. Now, given Spider-Man: Brand New Day comes out this week, Zendaya and Tom Holland, Safdie’s co-stars, will likely overtake him, while Zendaya definitely will when Dune 3 releases. But for now, let’s enjoy this.
What Movies Is Benny Safdie in?
Safdie kicked off the year by voicing Bowser Jr. in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, which has surpassed $1 billion worldwide to become one of 2026’s biggest releases, and followed it up as the King of Auramaxxing Mycenae, Agamemnon, in The Odyssey, which is now almost guaranteed to pass a billion, having almost reached $700 million worldwide in just its second weekend.
Safdie first rose to prominence alongside his brother Josh Safdie, directing acclaimed films including Good Time and Uncut Gems. In recent years, however, he’s increasingly become one of Hollywood’s most sought-after character actors, earning praise for performances in Oppenheimer, Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret. and now The Odyssey.
With The Odyssey continuing to dominate cinemas and The Super Mario Galaxy Movie already sitting among the biggest hits of the year, Safdie’s remarkable 2026 box office record may prove difficult for anyone else to catch before the year is out. This is one of those unusual cases where an actor you wouldn’t expect is actually the highest grossing — Zoe Saldaña is regularly cited on these lists thanks to her work in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but also James Cameron‘s Avatar films, while Samuel L. Jackson‘s supporting role as Nick Fury in the MCU has seen him become the highest-grossing actor of all time in the past.
The Odyssey is playing now in theaters.
- Release Date
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July 15, 2026
- Runtime
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173 minutes
The start of the 21st century saw quite a distinct shift in music. The lingering effects of the ’90s were still felt. The shockwaves in alt-rock and pop music paved the way for new styles to find success. While massive pop hits dominated the airwaves, so did the explosive rise of mainstream hip-hop and R&B. Alt-rock remained, but rock subgenres like pop-punk and emo slowly took over. And then there was Eurodance music, which shifted to fast, pulsating Auto-Tune club beats. For every Eminem, Britney Spears, or Green Day who dominated the 2000s, there was a one-hit wonder whose track outlasted the artist. You may not remember their name, but you certainly can sing the song.
In the age when TRL was appointment after-school television, the obsession with music videos and Top 40 hits shaped the music scene. The ’00s had a bevy of one-hit wonders across all genres. The artists dropped a hit that stuck with us, but why didn’t they? We’re about to celebrate 10 of the greatest one-hit wonders from the aughts. From hip-hop tracks that were highly inappropriate for a younger demographic to rock songs that became our anthems, these tracks were not only downloaded on Napster but also had a significant impact on pop culture. Some of these artists’ music videos have been on Youtube since the website launched, and some emerged years after, with the views jumping to great heights because we love nostalgia. Though it’s likely some of your favorites may not have made the cut, they remain in our brains.
10
“I Wann Be Bad” by Willa Ford (2001)
There were quite a few blonde bombshells in the pop music scene: Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Jessica Simpson, Mandy Moore. For the most part, they were wholesome until they weren’t any longer. But one blond bombshell entered the TRL era claiming she was a bad girl from day one. That girl was Willa Ford. In the pop-dance track, the rebellious anthem was all about embracing your wild side and breaking the rules. Ford also added another layer with rapper Royce da 5’9″, bringing an extra layer of swagger and edge. It’s a trend that the early aughts did quite often. In a time when the aforementioned divas were still bringing sugary, sweet, Ford was quickly rejected from delivering more. Which is comical as Spears and Aguilera went “I’m a Slave 4 U” and “Dirrrty” shortly after. But they earned it. Ford came out swinging.
Now, another layer into why “I Wanna Be Bad” became a one-hit wonder was because of the world around. Timing was everything, as her second single, “Did Ya Understand That,” was scheduled for release on September 11, 2001. The world stood still, radios froze, and her single just didn’t have the ability to chart. Further, her record company suffered executive turnover, leaving her stranded in “no man’s land.” It’s ironic that her album was called Willa Was Here because, for some, it served as a reminder that in the oversaturated pop scene, she existed. Post-“I Wanna Be Bad,” Ford had some film and television appearances, including the third season of Dancing with the Stars. She and her partner, Maksim Chmerkovskiy, were eliminated in the fifth week of the competition. Just this year, she released a digital album called Amanda, which included a string orchestral version of her one-hit wonder.
9
“Ocean Avenue” by Yellowcard (2003)
Emo pop-rock was all the rage at the turn of the century. Many alternative rock bands sought out mainstream crossover appeal because it often led to a road of success. For Yellowcard, it seemed they were on that path with the mammoth hit, “Ocean Avenue.” The nostalgic, coming-of-age pop-punk anthem told the story of a youthful romance and a longing to escape your hometown. With that theme, the track resonated by hitting the charts around the world. It may have been a song rooted in Jacksonville, Florida, but it had universal appeal. While the song became a massive mainstream anthem, the band never found that same allure again.
Yellowcard was locked into the mainstream after “Ocean Avenue.” It helped usher in the rise of pop-punk. It resonated well beyond its debut, earning itself a slot on many lists years later, including Greatest Choruses and Best Emo Songs, but Yellowcard was stuck in the past. Though the band found their niche and earned a devoted fan base, Yellowcard never found their way back into the mainstream. While “Only One” did bubble under the Hot 100, no song found the same allure as “Ocean Avenue.”
8
“Tipsy” by J-Kwon (2004)
We should all be grateful that J-Kwon‘s “Tipsy” predated Kidz Bop, because the infectious track would easily have made its way onto an album in retooled form. The truth, though, every kid and their mother was screaming out, “Everybody in the b— gettin’ tipsy.” The celebratory party anthem captured attention with its catchy counting hook, defining a generation of club culture. As the lead single from J-Kwon’s debut album, “Tipsy” was a minimalist, club-shaking hit. Though the track did lead off with, “Teen drinking is very bad,” “Tipsy” literally promoted underage drinking and clubbing. But that didn’t stop anyone from playing the track as it peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. Written when J-Kwon was just 17, the song served as an ode to sneaking into venues in St. Louis, blowing off steam, and getting buzzed.
The song was simply inescapable. If you listened to rap and R&B radio, you’d hear it. Top 40, it was played. It was an instant earworm that remained the communal drinking track until LMFAO and Lil Jon took over with “Shots” in 2009. Because “Tipsy” became J-Kwon’s defining track, industry executives and fans tied him to the party sound. But as hip-hop trends shifted away from the St. Louis sounds of the early 2000s, J-Kwon was never able to regain the same glory, fading into relative musical obscurity. The song has since reemerged in the pop culture lexicon after country singer Shaboozey sampled it on his track “A Bar Song (Tipsy).” Now, an entirely new generation and genre sang out, “everybody in the bar gettin’ tipsy.”
7
“Butterfly” by Crazy Town (2000)
If there was ever a band that was meant to bridge the gap from the ’90s to the ’00s it was Crazy Town. They were a rap-rock band that made their impact on the decade with their one-hit wonder, “Butterfly.” A cool, smooth, laid-back rock song with rap layered in, “Butterfly” was meant as a romantic ode to frontman Shifty Shellshock’s girlfriend. Sampling the instrumental from “Pretty Little Ditty” by Red Hot Chili Peppers, the relaxed, acoustic vibe with the hip-hop beat was exactly what music-lovers needed. “Butterfly” was a feel-good, guilty-pleasure track that distinctly brought carefree energy to the airwaves. But the song’s success was aided by its iconic music video. “Butterfly” found immense airplay on MTV because of its fantastical, CGI-heavy forest full of actual butterflies.
From Australia to Poland, with Italy in between, “Butterfly” charted in nearly two dozen countries. The song reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, but that came with a caveat. Because the song was so mainstream, it ended up alienating their core heavy metal audience. By locking into the pop realm, they struggled to ever shed that appeal. Though “Butterfly” wasn’t the first single from the band, their earlier singles failed to chart even after the success of “Butterfly.” Their sophomore album, “Darkhorse” flopped commercially, leading to the band to break up in 2003. The song has remained at the forefront of iconic one-hit wonders.
6
“Teenage Dirtbag” by Wheatus (2000)
Even outsiders needed an anthem, and that came from Wheatus‘ “Teenage Dirtbag.” The lead single from the band’s self-titled debut album, “Teenage Dirtbag,” told the tale of unrequited high school romance and teenage alienation. Though the song, written by frontman Brendan B. Brown, was inspired by a gruesome teen murder near his Long Island home in the ’80s. That murder set off a media frenzy and local “Satanic Panic.” Brown made the song an homage to those outsiders who loved AC/DC and Iron Maiden. The song itself is a peppy blend of alternative rock angst and power-pop hooks, which gave it wide appeal. It did have a specific sound, including Brown’s iconic falsetto that many listeners believed was that of a female vocalist.
“Teenage Dirtbag” had massive international success, charting at No. 1 in Australia, Austria, and Belgium. Surprisingly, “Teenage Dirtbag” never officially charted on the US Billboard Hot 100. But that didn’t stop it from becoming massively popular. The song was even featured on soundtracks including the 2000 teen comedy Loser, starring Jason Biggs and Mena Suvari. Unfortunately, Wheatus never found the same broad commercial traction as their subsequent singles. The song found a resurgence on TikTok when users and celebrities alike shared throwback photos and childhood memories to the song.
5
“I Believe in a Thing Called Love” by the Darkness (2003)
It may have been 2003, but the English rock band the Darkness brought music lovers back to the ’80s with their glam-rock anthem “I Believe in the Thing Called Love.” A retro throwback reminiscent of Freddie Mercury and Queen, the one-hit wonder was a celebration of romantic optimism and passion. But the truth is, it was deliberately intended to be the “stupidest song ever.” The song is an homage to classic rock. It’s gloriously over-the-top, proven in its exceptionally bizarre music video. Yes, the band was giving glam rock in space. The song is best known for Justin Hawkins‘ soaring, glass-shattering vocals and face-melting guitar riffs. Did you understand anything that came out of Hawkins’ mouth when he reached the tippy-top notes? No, but that was the allure of its idiocy.
The Darkness found massive global crossover success. Their stylistic mismatch with the 2000s became a roadblock. The band’s unapologetic ’70s glam and ’80s hair-metal revivalism clashed with the post-grunge and garage-rock trends on the airwaves. Despite its popularity, it never cracked the Billboard Hot 100 in the States, though in their homeland, No. 1 was their destiny, where they also scored multiple top-10 hits from their debut album. “I Believe in a Thing Called Love” swiftly became a karaoke go-to. The song may have been a one-hit wonder, but it certainly had longevity in pop culture. The song was featured on music video games including Karaoke Revolution and Guitar Hero. It even made it onto the soundtracks of Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason and The Fall Guy. The band has kept on rocking, with Hawkins even appearing on the UK version of The Masked Singer.
4
“My Neck, My Back (Lick It)” by Khia (2002)
If there is one song that became a pop culture touchstone because of its unapologetically explicit lyrics and empowering declaration of female sexual desire, it’s “My Neck, My Back (Lick It)” by Khia. The lead single from her debut album, Thug Misses, was the edited version of the song that reached mainstream radio, peaking on the US Billboard Hot 100. The song flips traditional power dynamics by giving Khia a demand for physical satisfaction, encouraging other women to do the same. In the process, it challenged the male-dominated rap culture. Though it was an important song for its sociological mission, it was nearly impossible to truly give Khia the success she needed for longevity, as the widespread radio rotation was nearly impossible without major censorship. Did it dilute the song? Incredibly.
To make matters worse, Khia was caught in label disputes while also becoming a controversial persona. She transitioned into a polarizing figure in the music industry, using her platform to focus on outspoken beefs and social commentary. Nevertheless, the track transcended its underground roots to become a cult classic. It’s been interpolated by Saweetie in her 2017 hit “ICY GRL.” Miley Cyrus performed a cover of it in 2015 at Adult Swim’s upfront party. And then there was a country-style cover from Elle King. Oh, and whenever other labels and artists tried to use the sample in their songs, Khia kept the song in the news cycle during copyright disputes.
3
“Who Let the Dogs Out” by Baha Men (2000)
In the ’90s, the most shocking yet addictive one-hit wonder with an awful meaning was “The Macarena.” Only a few years later, the Baha Men swooped in and took over with the highly addictive earworm, “Who Let the Dogs Out.” The sole hit single from the Bahamian Junkanoo band, the song, originally written by Trinidadian musician Anslem Douglas, was originally intended as a man-bashing anthem. In the lyrics, men at a party catcall women, prompting them to respond by calling the men dogs and demanding to know who let the dogs out. Though over time, it’s been believed that the song is about men calling women dogs. Nevertheless, the song rose to prominence thanks to its appearance in Rugrats in Paris: The Movie. It’s why kids started barking all the time.
The song became a global chart-topper, going number 1 in Australia and New Zealand. The Baha Men’s entire identity was locked into the novelty track. Because of that, their subsequent releases failed to find the same massive commercial lightning in a bottle. “Who Let the Dogs Out” was simply irresistible. The barking and chanting served as an inescapable earworm, finding its place in the professional sports world. The cultural phenomenon lasted long beyond its initial release. It appeared in films like Rat Race and Bubble Boy. It continues to be dropped into meme culture and internet humor. And, like anything successful, it faced legal complications, which were documented in the 2019 SXSW documentary Who Let the Dogs Out. Still today, we want to know the answer to the titular question.
2
“Hit ‘Em Up Style (Oops!)” by Blu Cantrell (2001)
Thanks to Blu Cantrell, we all wished to shop at Neiman Marcus, though the music video clearly stated it was Neircus Marman. The sassy R&B revenge anthem “Hit ‘Em Style (Oops!)” A fiercely independent, boss track, “Hit ‘Em Up Style (Oops!)” follows Cantrell as she discovers a partner’s infidelity and retaliates by draining his bank accounts, maxing out his credit cards, and selling his property as payback. The fun feel flips the classic heartbreak narrative into an empowering, upbeat revenge fantasy. The rhythmic, head-nodding anthem gave way to an instant guilty-pleasure tune. The track cleverly sampled a snippet of Frank Sinatra‘s “The Boys’ Night Out,” instantly adding a hint of nostalgia. The single’s massive success was driven by its uniquely catchy fusion of classic jazz and modern R&B. That jazzy R&B helped establish Alicia Keys as a megastar. It didn’t happen for Cantrell.
Cantrell found instant success as the song peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. Unfortunately, it was the only massive track in her repertoire as “Breathe” featuring Sean Paul didn’t find the same appeal stateside. That said, Cantrell’s track remains a feminist anthem, even as a time-capsule song. Cantrell fell into a bit of music obscurity, though she did try reality in the complete celebrity-centric flop on NBC, Celebrity Circus. The song has been covered and mashed up, including by dancehall artist Shenseea. Cantrell was invited to appear in the “Boss Up” music video, but she passed.
1
“Bad Day” by Daniel Powter (2005)
Sometimes we turn to music to lift ourselves up when we’ve had a tough time. Then Daniel Powter arrived with “Bad Day,” and a song personified it all. What began as a commercial song for Coca-Cola turned into an overnight hit for the Canadian singer-songwriter. Before it was used as a mockery and as an exit song for a reality song, “Bad Day” was meant as a triumphant lift-up track. The song’s lyrics discuss the universal experience of having a rough, discouraging day and pushing through it. The musical equivalent of that hokey poster you saw taped on the classroom wall, “Bad Day” was meant to remind the listeners that this too shall pass. Rather than being a sad ballad, Powter presented the song with a sunny, upbeat melody. Powter didn’t have a bad day when the song reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2006, spending five weeks in the top spot. As for his subsequent singles, they had bad days, as none reached such chart heights.
Perhaps the most prevalent appearance of the track was during American Idol as the elimination send-off song. What was meant to be a comforting, albeit slightly melancholic, pick-me-up track in the moment became laughable over time. It would soon be used as a parody via viral videos to evoke sucky situations through musical underscoring. Powter has openly shared how the overnight fame affected his mental health, pushing him into substance abuse to cope with the sudden spotlight. Powter made waves when he auditioned for Canada’s Got Talent with “Bad Day.” In his audition, judge Howie Mandel mentioned the risk of singing an original song, only to eventually put two and two together. They let him through to the next day, so not such a bad day!
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