Entertainment
The Bloodiest And Sexiest Historical Epic Series Is Now On Netflix
By Jonathan Klotz
| Published

If your Roman Empire is the Roman Empire, you’ve already seen Spartacus. Not the 1960 film with Kirk Douglas. The bloody, violent, sex-filled Starz series that took the world by storm in 2010 and proved the overlooked cable network was capable of hanging with Showtime and HBO.
Now that it’s on Netflix, the award-winning, over-the-top pulp hit is going to be your next binge. That is, if you can get past the first three episodes. Even in 2010, they weren’t great, but after that, the series kicks into high gear, and for three seasons, multiple spin-offs, betrayals, murders, and lots of sex, it never lets up.
The Roman Empire Like You’ve Never Seen It Before

Spartacus, like most gladiator stories, starts off with the Romans betraying a man, kidnapping his wife, and forcing him to fight in the Colosseum as a gladiator. The unnamed Thracen (Andy Whitfield) is dubbed Spartacus by his owner Batiatus (The Mummy’s John Hannah), after the legendary Thracen king. With the promise he’ll be reunited with his wife, Spartacus fights in the gladiator pits for Batiatus, entertaining the Roman elite, including Batiatus’ wife, Lucretia (Lucy Lawless). It’s all going great for the Romans until Spartacus’ wife turns up dead, Batiatus is found responsible, and with nothing left to lose, Spartacus decides to “kill them all.”
It’s a simple story, but it’s effective. The gladiator rebellion leads to some of the most satisfying deaths you’ll ever see on screen, and since it was on Starz, there’s no sugarcoating the bloody violence that hits the streets of ancient Rome. Spartacus: Blood and Sand is only the beginning, but it’s not the beginning, as Starz turned the series into a franchise with a prequel (Spartacus: Gods of the Arena) and more recently, a sequel series exploring an alternate timeline (Spartacus: House of Ashur).
Behind The Scenes Tragedy Changed Everything

When the star of Spartacus: Blood and Sand, Andy Whitfield, revealed he had lymphoma following the filming of the first season, Starz did what no other studio would do and decided to rework all of their plans to support him. Pivoting to the prequel, Gods of the Arena, featuring Batiatus, Lucretia, and Crixius (Arrow’s Manu Bennett), they wanted to give Whitfield time to beat cancer and come back. Sadly, he passed away 18 months after his diagnosis, leading to Spartacus being recast with Liam McIntyre.
The show went on for two more seasons, dubbed Vengeance and War of the Damned, both of which include more of what made the first season so great: blood, sex, pulpy action, and ridiculous campy dialogue. This is not a high-brow Shakespearean take on the Roman Empire, which means you’re either going to love it, or hate it. There is no middle ground when it comes to Spartacus.
There’s Nothing Like Spartacus

Spartacus takes a little bit to get going, and in those initial three episodes, you’ll see some of the worst greenscreen effects imaginable. The initial battle between the Thracians and the Getae looks like it takes place on the set of a community theater. But stick with it; the reward is a series that ends up finding its way, and Rome has never looked better than in War of the Damned.
The entire series is currently streaming on Netflix, and yes, it is uncensored, which means all the nudity (both male and female) is uncut. If you binge Spartacus and still need more, House of Ashur recently wrapped up its first season, and there’s more on the way.
Entertainment
Priscilla Presley Says Lisa Marie’s Death Changed Family Dynamic
Priscilla Presley is reflecting on how daughter Lisa Marie Presley’s death impacted her relationship with her family.
“It’s kind of separated us in a way because, you know, we would get together and have meals and, of course, you know, have family,” Priscilla, 80, said during a speaking engagement at Westgate Las Vegas on Saturday, May 2, alongside son Navarone Garibaldi.
Lisa Marie died at age 54 in January 2023 from a small bowel obstruction, a complication from bariatric surgery.
Referring to Lisa Marie’s daughters with fourth husband Michael Lockwood, twins Finley and Harper, Priscilla continued, “[The] girls are 18 now, the twins. So they have their boyfriends and, you know, do their thing. It’s been, even though we’re close — what?”
Navarone, 39, whom Priscilla shares with Marco Garibaldi, jumped in to add, “I would disagree.”
Three years before Lisa Marie’s death, her son Benjamin died by suicide at age 27 in July 2020. In Navarone’s opinion, this was the “first thing that separated” the family.
“When you would think that would be something that should bring everybody together, that somehow separated us further, because everybody grieves in different ways, and everybody felt, you know, put blame on somebody in different ways, and just felt different ways about it,” the screenwriter explained. “Somehow, that separated us further. … Now, after my sister died, I feel like now we’re actually coming closer together, and I feel like we’re all letting go of those feelings.”

In addition to mom Priscilla, half-brother Navarone and daughters Finley and Harper, Lisa Marie is survived by daughter Riley Keough. She shared Riley, 36, and Benjamin with first husband Danny Keough.
Nearly five months before her own death, Lisa Marie opened up about her grief after losing Benjamin and alluded to feeling abandoned by some family members.

“This is where finding others who have experienced a similar loss can be the only way to go,” she wrote, in part, in a lengthy essay for National Grief Awareness Day and shared with People in August 2022. “Support groups that have your specific kind of loss in common. I go to them, and I hold them for other bereaved parents at my home.”
Lisa Marie continued, “Nothing, absolutely NOTHING takes away the pain, but finding support can sometimes help you feel a little bit less alone. Your old ‘friends’ and even your family can and will run for the hills. The unrelenting reality is that you are FORCED into this horrendous ‘club,’ if you will, that you never wanted to be in or a part of, and you are FORCED to then, for lack of a better term, have to go and find your new people now.”
The singer-songwriter concluded, “I now truly cherish the few who have stayed in there with us throughout this entire nightmare process from the onset. And I have also now come to love and cherish my newfound friends who are in this same ‘club.’”
Riley, 36, also shared insight into her family’s grieving process after Lisa Marie’s death in an August 2023 interview with Vanity Fair.
“When my mom passed, there was a lot of chaos in every aspect of our lives,” she explained at the time. “Everything felt like the carpet had been ripped out and the floor had melted from under us. Everyone was in a bit of a panic to understand how we move forward, and it just took a minute to understand the details of the situation, because it’s complicated. There was a bit of upheaval, but now everything’s going to be how it was.”
Entertainment
Teyana Taylor Turns ‘Glade PlugIn’ Joke Into Full-Blown Campaign
Teyana Taylor is leaning all the way into one of her most viral metaphors and turning it into a full-blown campaign moment. Ahead of the Met Gala, the multi-hyphenate star teamed up with Glade for a new “Get Ready With Me” video that officially brings her now-iconic “Glade PlugIn” comparison to life… and fans are already obsessed.

If you’ve been following Teyana Taylor, you already know the line. The singer, actress, and creative powerhouse previously compared herself to a “Glade PlugIn,” explaining that she refuses to be boxed into one space when she has the ability to “fill a whole room.”
Now, that analogy isn’t just a mindset, it’s the concept behind her latest campaign. In the newly released GRWM-style video, Taylor greets viewers with a playful, slightly dramatic tone, opening with, “Hey, Glade! How are you? I’ve been waiting for you… you’re late.”
From there, the clip shows off her personality, from humor and glam to a bit of attitude as she gets ready, all while reinforcing the idea that her presence, like a scent, lingers and fills the room.
Taylor Doubles Down On ‘Glade PlugIn’ Claim In New Ad

Wrapped in a luxe white robe, Taylor delivers lines with expressive facial reactions and sharp comedic timing, at one point commanding, “Get in here… now.” The tone moves between playful and confident, showing exactly why Taylor has built a reputation as a creative force who thrives across multiple lanes.
Midway through the clip, Taylor doubles down on the comparison that sparked it all. “You know, everywhere I go… I call myself a Glade PlugIn.”
She goes on to explain the deeper meaning behind it, making it clear this isn’t just about fragrance, but it’s about presence. “That’s how they found me.” And as the actress put it. She doesn’t just show up. She fills the space, just like Glad Plugins do.
See the full ad here.
A Partnership That Actually Makes Sense

The partnership isn’t random. It actually aligns perfectly with Taylor’s long-standing approach to her career. She’s never stayed in one lane.
From music to acting, directing, choreography, and fashion, Taylor has built a brand around versatility, something this campaign subtly reinforces. At one point, she even notes, “I feel like we got a lot of stuff in common.” It’s a fun little nod to the idea that both she and the product are designed to stand out and take over a room.
Teyana Taylor Capitalizes On Met Gala Moment With New Campaign

While the campaign was teased ahead of the Met Gala, the full video dropped today, and the timing couldn’t be more intentional. The Met Gala is all about presence, impact, and unforgettable moments, three things Taylor has consistently delivered throughout her career.
For this year’s Met Gala, Teyana Taylor didn’t just walk the iconic carpet; she made a statement. At fashion’s biggest night on Monday, May 4, the “One Battle After Another” actress stepped out at New York City’s Metropolitan Museum of Art in a striking metallic look that immediately turned heads.
Teyana Taylor’s Met Gala Look Was Designed To ‘Melt’ As She Moved

As part of the 2026 host committee, Taylor wore a silver-fringed Tom Ford gown, complete with a matching headdress that cascaded over half her face, adding an extra layer of drama to the already eye-catching ensemble.
For Taylor, the look was all about movement and illusion. “The outfit is always very, very important to me,” she told Vogue ahead of the event. “It looks like it’s melting as I move. I like to think of it as the ‘ghost of a body,’ it appears and disappears, appears and disappears as I’m moving.”
Teyana Taylor’s glam was just as intentional as her look and just as meaningful. Fresh off being named the newest Revlon spokesperson, Taylor called the partnership “a dream come true,” making her Met Gala beauty moment feel even more full-circle.
For the night, she opted for something soft and lustrous, with makeup artist Yeika Oliva using Revlon’s Super Lustrous Lipstick to complete the look. On the eyes, Oliva described the glam as a smoky finish designed to complement the metallic gown, paired with Taylor’s signature double-winged liner.
Entertainment
Days of our Lives Early Spoilers May 11-15: EJ Issues Threats & Gabi Makes Power Move!
Days of Our Lives early weekly spoilers for May 11th through the 15th reveal EJ DiMera (Dan Feuerriegel) making some very scary threats and accusations while Gabi Hernandez (Cherie Jimenez) may stake a claim that stuns the DiMera family.
We’re also going to discuss Holly Jonas (Ashley Puzemis) facing the music and Kristen DiMera‘s (Stacy Haiduk) terror. As always, on early edition day, we talk about what’s coming the rest of this week and then we dive into what is happening the week of May 11th. With that in mind, on Wednesday, May 6th, we’ve got Lexie Carver‘s (Nikki Crawford) return from death giving Theo Carver (Cameron Johnson) some mixed feelings.
Days of Our Lives Spoilers Wednesday, May 6th: Theo Remains by Lexie’s Side
He’s been sitting vigil at his mom Lexie’s bedside, holding her hand and waiting. But is Theo starting to lose hope with no more progress? And also, he knows this will blow up Abe Carver (James Reynolds) and Paulina Price’s (Jackee Harry) marriage and really the whole entire family. But at the same time, Theo wants his mom back. Also, EJ warns Kristen DiMera. They already had one showdown at University Hospital and now it looks like another at the mansion.
She asks if EJ suggesting she had something to do with Sophia Choi (Rachel Boyd) trying to kill Johnny DiMera (Carson Boatman). I think that EJ will gleefully kill Kristen if he finds out the role she played in Sophia nearly blowing Johnny up. You know that Kristen is worried but optimistic because she made sure to kill Sophia to shut her up for good and also for revenge on what she did to Rachel.
Days of our Lives Spoilers: What Is Sophia’s Fate?
But is Sophia really dead? Because Kristen is sitting alone in the DiMera living room and she hears a noise, calls out asking if it’s EJ and it’s not. It is a bloody Sophia who walks into the DiMera living room and she tells Kristen she looks like she has seen a ghost. So is she? That’s the big question. It is Salem where ghosts and devil possessions happen and resurrections.
So, there’s a spoiler photo I can’t show you for copyright reasons of EJ with his hand on Kristen’s shoulder looking at her and she is looking at him and a bloody Sophia is standing there beside them. So, Kristen may be hallucinating and EJ doesn’t see this or Sophia may have survived and I mean the worst case scenario is if EJ had people out searching for her body and his people found her alive instead. Either way, I am intrigued.
DOOL Spoilers: Roman Tells Kate to Back Off
Roman tells Kate he needs her to take a step back. So, Roman is going up to University Hospital this week and he is going to chat with Marlena Evans (Diedre Hall), but I’m sure that Roman is primarily there to visit Johnny. And I bet Roman doesn’t want Kate anywhere near his grandson after what she did to him.
I also wonder if Roman is going to vent to Marlena about what Kate has done because honestly Marlena’s on fire at Kate as well. So them commiserating makes sense. Chad DiMera (Connor Floyd) and Cat Greene’s (AnnaLynne McCord) run-in is awkward in the square.
But since she works for EJ and it’s a small town, you know, this is the new normal. Marlena offers comfort and advice to Johnny. Marlena is in his hospital room visiting this week and this could be about his trauma over the Sophia attack or about Chanel Dupree DiMera‘s (Raven Bowens) malignant breast lump or all of the above.
Days Spoilers Thursday, May 7th:
Then on Thursday, May 7th, Gabi argues with Arianna Hernandez (Vico Escorcia). If you remember, Philip Kiriakis (John-Paul Lavoisier) gave Gabi the advice that if she bans Ari from seeing Liam Selejko (Hank Northrop), then Ariana will just want to date him even more.
So Gabi may cave during the argument and back off if she can keep her temper in check and remember the good advice that Philip gave her. Johnny comforts Chanel and this may be about the rush to do the biopsy ASAP since things look so scary. I’m sure she’s worried because being pregnant means they can’t treat the cancer and Chanel is scared.
Days of our Lives: Roman Demands the Truth
Roman demands the full truth from Kate on Thursday, but will she finally come clean? Her marriage is at risk. And Roman may consider walking away if she continues lying to him, but she may also be worried. You know, Kate may think if she tells him the truth, Roman will walk away because of what she did. She’s kind of painted herself into a corner.
Elsewhere, Justin Kiriakis (Wally Kurth) and Alex Kiriakis (Robert Scott Wilson) bond over both being dads. I’m sure Justin can’t wait to meet his new granddaughter, adorable little Kelsey Kiriakis. Alex may open up about his issues with Stephanie Johnson (Abigail Klein) and how Joy Wesley (AlexAnn Hopkins) being in the mix is a mixed blessing because of the baby, but is at a very bad point in their relationship for this all to come out. Meanwhile, Stephanie is increasingly frustrated about this child turning up in Alex’s life. And she vents to Jada Hunter (Elia Cantu).
DOOL Spoilers Friday, May 8th: Kristen & Marlena Face Off
Friday, May 8th, we’ve got Kristen and Marlena bickering about Rachel Black (Lorelie Olivia Mote). I’m sure Kristen’s annoyed Brady Black (Eric Martsolf) overturned her ban on Marlena seeing Rachel at Bayview. We could see Kristen telling Marlena to stay away, but if so, I hope that she tells Kristen to go kick rocks. Leo Stark (Greg Rikkart) offers to cover for Cat. This may have something to do with the will reading, you know, or Leo may be offering to be a buffer between her and Chad. Whatever Leo’s offering, I’m sure it’s selfish and for his own ends.
Gabi stakes a claim. She may assert that she is Stefan DiMera’s (Brandon Barash) widow, not his ex-wife. And should be inheriting his share. I’m kind of hoping that Philip can somehow help her because he knows Vivian Almain (Louise Sorel) well. And he was just doing a Euro trip. I hope Philip is doing something for Gabi while he’s gone. Chad reassures Theo, who’s probably feeling a little nervous and weird about being Stefano DiMera’s (Joseph Mascolo) executor.
That and the waiting game with his mom, Lexie, is just a whole lot on Theo. EJ makes final preparations for Stefano’s will reading and I am hoping for chaos. Tony DiMera (Thaao Penghlis) and Anna DiMera (Leann Hunley) are back on Friday. He says it’s good to be back, but Anna tells Tony passing on any of Stefano’s stuff isn’t a good thing. The will reading should run over into the following week on Days of our Lives.


Days of Our Lives Spoilers Week of May 11th-15th: Stefano’s Will Reading Drama & Chaos
So, the week of May 11th through the 15th, I am expecting the family to convene on Friday, but I think we won’t get to the meat of things until the week of the 11th because it’s the last full week of May sweeps, which wraps on Wednesday, May 20th. There should be some huge surprises in the document itself.
We may have some crashers at the will reading. Gabi may push her way in. Abe’s supposed to be there on Lexie’s behalf. Cat should be there doing her job duties. Plus EJ and Chad and Kristen and Tony and Anna and Marlena. We’ll see if Johnny is up to being there. Fingers crossed that Lexie wakes in the middle of all this drama because she should have her eyes open soon with May sweeps almost over.
Days of Our Lives Spoilers: Amy Wants Holly Charged
Amy is pressing Jada and Belle Black (Martha Madison) to press charges against Holly for cyber bullying that led to Sophia’s apparent suicide. Meanwhile, Kristen’s being tormented by Sophia, either a haunting or a very angry young woman who survived Kristen’s murderous assault.
Dead or alive, I’m sure Sophia wants Kristen to pay. Stephanie soon confronts Joy about lying about her pregnancy. Alex told Stephanie that Joy’s staying, but did you notice that Alex left out the part where he basically told Joy he really wants her to stay, which is understandable.
Johnny & Chanel Explore Their Options on DOOL
Johnny and Chanel are going to find out more about the options about this presumably malignant breast tumor because radiation and chemo are pretty much off the table because of her pregnancy. They may be able to do surgery depending on the extent and if it’s metastasized and all that. Marlena visits Rachel soon, but will she be happy to see her grandma? I’m just worried if Kristen somehow tried to poison Rachel against Marlena. Liam and Ariana share a kiss soon. Plus, Xander Kiriakis (Paul Telfer) and Kristen are going to get frisky. Looks like they may have a roll in the hay.
Entertainment
Will there be a season 5 of “Will Trent”? All about its 'reset' following season 4's bloodbath
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With the ensemble shaken up, the ABC series will explore new territory in season 5.
Entertainment
Team Directs Her While She Poses At Met Gala (WATCH)
Internet users are crackin’ UP at Blue Ivy‘s apparent reaction to her team directing her while she posed for photos on the Met Gala red carpet.
RELATED: Bow Down! 7 Times Blue Ivy Carter Served Peak Capricorn Energy And Gave Us Manager Vibes
More On Blue Ivy’s Apparent Reaction To Her Team Directing Her While She Posed For Photos On Met Gala Red Carpet
On Tuesday, May 5, The Shade Room reposted footage recorded of Blue Ivy’s time walking on the Met Gala red carpet. In the clip, Blue posed alongside her mom for photos while her mom’s bodyguard, their publicist, and Jay-Z himself all motioned for her to take off her sunglasses.
As the cameras snapped, Blue seemed reluctant to do so, and she held her pose — glasses and all.
Internet Users Are Crackin’ UP
Internet users entered TSR’s comment section, crackin’ UP at Blue Ivy’s apparent reaction — or lack thereof — to her team.
Instagram user @soprettidrea wrote, “Somebody said beyonce was standing there not saything nothing like she was in the elevator lol”
While Instagram user @natalieeeee.t added, “Blue said yall work for me! I don’t work for you 😭”
Instagram user @blackadventuremom wrote, “How many times did they think they needed to tell her. 😂😂😂 the answer was no.”
While Instagram user @precilla_tshabalala added, “Blue said ‘Try me because I’ll take Beyonce home’ 😂😂😂😭👍🏽”
Instagram user @dami.adei wrote, “I love how Beyonce didn’t interfere and allowed Blue to do what makes her comfortable”
While Instagram user @stephaniedillard18 added, “Baaaaaybae can’t nobody ignore you like A TEENAGER! 😂”
Instagram user @cobacobana wrote, “Blue is the program, they seem to forget”
While Instagram user @a_rose_in_harlem_35 added, “Baby!!!! Blue is gonna be NOTHING TO PLAY WITH in 10 more years.”
Instagram user @queenmelanin_ty wrote, “All them damn lights in her face! She said what she said!! Wait!”
While Instagram user @thebadpapi added, “She saw them 😂. It’s Blue she ain’t miss nothing – she PAID it dust & threw literal shade 😂”
Instagram user @ms.business101 wrote, “I loved the look even more with the shades. Yassss blu, I see the vision.”
While Instagram user @hot_nai added, “Blue is such a boss. She knows what she wants.🔥😍 She looks absolutely stunning”
More On Blue Ivy’s Appearance On The Met Gala Red Carpet
As The Shade Room previously reported, Blue Ivy appeared alongside her parents on the Met Gala red carpet on Monday, May 4. Per PEOPLE, the occasion was Blue’s first time on the carpet, and she donned a “monochromatic white strapless Balenciaga gown with a billowing skirt and train.”
“I think she looks so incredible,” Beyoncé reportedly told Vogue about her daughter.
RELATED: That’s Me Right There! Jay-Z And Beyoncé React To Blue Ivy’s Met Gala Debut As Fans Are In Awe (VIDEOS)
What Do You Think Roomies?
Entertainment
Netflix Officially Reunites With Oscar Isaac for Martin Scorsese’s New Crime Thriller Series
Netflix is doubling down on Oscar Isaac. The Moon Knight star is returning to the streamer as the lead in one of their highest-profile upcoming series. The series will explore the seamier side of Las Vegas, a subject that the show’s executive producer is no stranger to.
Isaac has signed on to star in an as-yet untitled Las Vegas-set series as Robert “Bobby Red” Redman. Bobby Red is the president of the hottest casino in town, but he’s beset on all sides by foes who want to drag him back down into the neon-lit streets of the desert metropolis. The series is a rare foray into television for Martin Scorsese, who will executive produce the series; he previously took on the history of Las Vegas in his 1995 epic crime drama Casino, and executive produced Boardwalk Empire, another prestige TV series about a different gambling mecca. The series is the brainchild of Brian Koppelman and David Levien, the creators of Billions; they’re likewise well-versed in the world of high-stakes gambling, having penned the films Rounders and Ocean’s Thirteen. The duo will write, showrun, and executive produce; also executive producing are Julie Yorn and Rick Yorn for Expanded Media, Paul Schiff, Beth Schacter, Isaac, while Kerry Orent will co-executive produce. J.C. Chandor, who previously directed Isaac in Triple Frontier and A Most Violent Year, will executive produce and direct the first two episodes.
What Other Netflix Projects Has Oscar Isaac Worked On?
Isaac has had a long and fruitful relationship with the streaming giant. His first Netflix project was the Ben Affleck action thriller Triple Frontier back in 2019. Last year, he starred as Dr. Victor Frankenstein in Guillermo del Toro‘s Frankenstein; the film was well-received by critics and audiences, and Isaac was nominated for a Golden Globe for his performance. He’s currently starring in, and executive producing, the second season of the anthology black comedy series Beef, alongside frequent collaborator Carey Mulligan.
This won’t be the first collaboration between Isaac and Scorsese; Isaac starred in Paul Schrader‘s Atlantic City drama The Card Counter, which Scorsese executive produced. They’re also set to appear on-screen together in the upcoming historical drama In the Hand of Dante; Isaac will play the great Italian poet Dante Alighieri, while Scorsese, in a rare on-screen acting role, will play his mentor.
Oscar Isaac will star in Netflix’s new untitled Las Vegas series; no release date has yet been announced. Stay tuned to Collider for future updates.
Entertainment
Star Trek’s Coolest Political Analogy Was Ruined By Its Greatest Failure
By Chris Snellgrove
| Published

Regardless of what reactionaries on YouTube might tell you, Star Trek has always been full of political commentary. Original Series episodes like “A Private Little War” served as a commentary on Vietnam, for example, while Deep Space Nine’s “Paradise Lost” demonstrated the dangers of trading national freedom for security. Furthermore, the entire Maquis storyline that set up Voyager is a scathing allegory for the ethical quandaries of colonization.
Every now and then, though, Star Trek shoots itself in the foot with a clunky metaphor that doesn’t quite land. For example, the writer of the Star Trek: The Next Generation episode “The Defector,” Ronald D. Moore, previously insisted that his story was a metaphor for real-life events. According to him, this story presents “the Cuban missile crisis at the Neutral Zone.” Unfortunately, this political analogy doesn’t land because it relies on a deep understanding of the Romulan War, which the franchise has always inexplicably refused to flesh out.
The Gang Stops A Romulan War

In “The Defector,” the Enterprise offers sanctuary to a Romulan who is fleeing out of the Neutral Zone, away from his own people. He provides intel to Captain Picard about the Romulans building a secret base inside the Neutral Zone, where they can make and hide starships. Picard is skeptical of these claims and hesitant to enter the Neutral Zone, but he does so after the Romulan is revealed to be a high-ranking admiral. Unfortunately, he is being played by his own people, and the Romulans try to ambush the Enterprise. However, Picard brought some cloaked Klingon ships to even the odds, and the stalemate was resolved without bloodshed.
The episode was written by Ronald D. Moore, the rockstar Star Trek writer who later became showrunner of the highly acclaimed Battlestar Galactica reboot. As recorded in Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion, he once described the events of this episode as “the Cuban missile crisis at the Neutral Zone.” This makes sense, of course, because America’s discovery of Soviet missiles in Cuba nearly led to all-out nuclear war. The seemingly unprovoked presence of the Enterprise in the Neutral Zone, meanwhile, would have given the Romulans a chance to righteously strike back at the invading Federation.
The Man With The Plan

Why, then, do I think the key political analogy of “The Defector” falls apart? Mostly, because the franchise never gave us a detailed rundown of what happened during the Earth-Romulan War. This conflict is first mentioned in The Original Series, but without much detail. We got a handful of details in the later series Enterprise, which retroactively revealed that the “humiliating defeat at the Battle of Cheron” mentioned in “The Defector” is actually a reference to the final battle of this interstellar conflict. However, Enterprise ended without getting to show the Earth-Romulan War, which, to this day, still remains largely shrouded in mystery.
Why does the confusion about the Earth-Romulan War ruin the political analogy of “The Defector?” Without knowing much about this conflict or that the defecting Romulan is referencing its most decisive battle, everything falls apart. All we really see in this Next Generation episode is Romulans trying to set a trap for our heroes. It’s not really clear that this was an attempt to justify a second major conflict between these empires or that Picard’s quick thinking might very well have saved the Federation from the futuristic equivalent of a nuclear war.

Like America and the USSR, there is plenty of complex and bitter history between the Federation and the Romulan Star Empire. Ronald D. Moore’s comparison to the Cuban Missile Crisis is quite apt. The discovery of the Enterprise in the Neutral Zone, like the discovery of Soviet missiles in Cuba, would have been enough to trigger a destructive war between the two biggest powers in the galaxy. The story is complex and nuanced, but the payoff is far from satisfying, all because Star Trek has refused to give us details of the Earth-Romulan War for the last 60 years!
Entertainment
Nancy Meyers-Style Clothes to Wear This Summer — From $18
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Whenever summer rolls around, many of Us pull out our breezy, warm-weather clothes that look effortlessly stylish yet feel incredibly comfy. And while we can choose any loose clothing style, some of our favorite looks are inspired by none other than Nancy Meyers. The legendary filmmaker produces popular rom-com movies, but she’s also known for that beachy, rich mom aesthetic sprinkled throughout her films. It’s why we’re piecing together a summer wardrobe that feels like it belongs in Something’s Gotta Give, but feels right at home in our closet.
While combing through the internet, we found several luxe-looking pieces that deliver a light, airy feel that’s synonymous with Meyers. We can easily see these dresses, tops, pants and skirts making a cameo in The Parent Trap or It’s Complicated à la Meryl Streep. They have that free-flowing magic that gives off Montecito vibes mixed with Hamptons energy, all without setting foot into pricey designer territory. Plus, there are pieces from Abercrombie & Fitch, Quince, Gap and Athleta that feature breathable, chic materials like linen, merino wool and cotton. Read: You’ll look and feel rich.
13 Nancy Meyers-Inspired Summer Clothes — From $18
1. Our Favorite: Did you buy this maxi dress on Amazon or at a boutique on Main Street? Honestly, this breezy pick will have everyone guessing. What really sells it is the subtle V-neck, loose tiered skirt and light blue hue that reads coastal chic.
2. Runner-Up: We love anything with puffed sleeves, which brings Us to this top-rated smocked dress. The flattering find highlights your curves while also providing a slimming appearance for the upper arms. Plus, the midi skirt is ideal for petite ladies!
3. Everyday Ease: You won’t think twice about throwing on this linen-blend top on busy mornings. It feels breathable on the skin, has a conservative neckline and a trendy cropped hem that looks great with high-waisted pants.
4. Laid-Back Luxe: Speaking of pants, this loose palazzo option is a must-have in every summer closet. The easy-going style is great for lounging around the house; however, we can totally see it worn as a cover-up after taking a dip in the pool.
5. Playful Pattern: No warm-weather wardrobe is complete without gingham-print clothing. This square-neck dress feels classic and trendy at the same time, thanks to the black and white pattern. Plus, the bodice is stitched in a way that makes your waist look so snatched.
6. Quite the Charmer: This boho-style maxi skirt from Abercrombie is a total conversation starter. It takes a classic white skirt and makes it more fun and playful with the dainty beachside accents, like seashells, starfish, strawberries and lobsters. But if you want to go the traditional route, shop it in plain white, black and butter yellow hues.
7. Going Viral: In case you missed it, celebrities can’t get enough of the butter yellow shade for spring and summer, and the Dylan Mini Dress is right on target. The pastel yellow shade is super trendy, as is the flattering basque waist design.
8. Summer Staple: Stripes for summer? Groundbreaking. All jokes aside, this Caslon cardigan is a must for trips to the coast. Plus, the Marino wool material acclimates to the temperature to keep you warm during chilly beach strolls and cool during sunny farmers’ market adventures.
9. Cozy-Chic: Sweatpant jeans aren’t going anywhere any time soon. These high-rise barrel jeans from Gap lean into the style with a loose fit and a stretchy drawstring waist, making them feel like, well, sweats. Psst, the light indigo shade is on sale!
10. Comfort MVP: Yes, jorts are a thing. These mid-rise denim shorts have a longline 11-inch inseam, making them ultra comfy and relaxed (unlike your short shorts from the 1950s). The best part? No more thigh chafing!
11. Soft Statement: We can’t look at a cable-knit sweater without thinking about Cameron Diaz‘s character in The Holiday. This one from Quince delivers a similar look and is made with super soft organic cotton. Yes, the pullover is as cozy as it looks.
12. Instant Upgrade: You may already have a plain button-up top in your drawer, but we’re willing to bet you don’t have one as care-free as this linen Quince find. Everything from the rich-looking texture to the pinstripe pattern gives it a coastal sheen, even though it’s just $42.
13. Year-Round Staple: Errand runs, beach days and beyond call for relaxed yet polished pants, like this pair from Athleta. The Retreat barrel crop pants create dimension with their rounded design, which looks flattering on most bodies. We also love the shortened hem that lets Us dip our feet in the water without care.
Entertainment
Bold and Beautiful Early Spoilers May 11-15: Steffy Revolted & Liam Overjoyed!
Bold and the Beautiful early weekly spoilers for May 11th through the 15th bring drama as Steffy Forrester (Jacqueline MacInnes Wood) is absolutely disgusted when things take a turn at Forrester Creations. Plus, Liam Spencer (Scott Clifton) is about to be over the moon happy.
We’re also going to talk about Katie Logan‘s (Heather Tom) next move, Miss Dylan’s (Sydney Bullock) struggle, and more bombshells ahead as we hit the last full week of May sweeps. And as we always do on early edition day, we talk about what’s happening the rest of this week and then we get into what is coming the week of May 11th. All right.
Wednesday, May 6th on Bold and the Beautiful: Brooke Tries to Make Peace…But is It Real?
On Wednesday, May 6th, just a quick note, if you live on the West Coast, Bold and the Beautiful is likely preempted in your region on Wednesday. This is the second preemption this week because of soccer. East Coast and Central time zone should not be affected. Mountain zone maybe. Look for it on demand or on Paramount Plus if you are affected.
Katie gets an olive branch from Brooke Logan (Katherine Kelly Lang) on Wednesday. If it goes badly, Katie may go ahead and just push forward with Hope Logan (Annika Noelle). Now, we all saw Katie begging Brooke to please say that she was proud of her and congratulate her, and Brooke refused. And instead, she called Katie a thief of the Logan trademark and Eric Forrester‘s (John McCook) designs that they bought and paid for. And even if Brooke comes over to Logan to see her little sister with the best intentions, I kind of doubt it’s going to be a sincere olive branch. It may be more of a switch that she swats Katie with. We’ll see.
Plus, Dylan gets an intriguing offer from Daphne Rose Walton (Muriel Hilaire). So, I really hope that she doesn’t walk in and finds Dylan with Remy Pryce (ChristianWeissmann). I know that Daphne knows exactly who Remy is and what he did to Electra Forrester (Laneya Grace) because Daphne was in the showroom with Electra and I think Steffy was also there. A couple of people were there when Deke Sharpe (Harrison Cone) introduced Remy as his boyfriend and Electra and all the others freaked out about it.
Thursday, May 7th on Bold: Hope’s Ultimatum Shakes Things Up
Then on Thursday, May 7th, it looks like Steffy wants to hear what Hope started to say on Tuesday. And if she threatens to go to Logan, even though Ridge Forrester (Thorsten Kaye) doesn’t want to be in the middle of his daughter and stepdaughter hammering at each other, things are going to get blown way up. Hope may tell Steffy that she’ll just go work somewhere else if they don’t want her. And Carter Walton (Lawrence Saint-Victor) has a warning for Steffy and Ridge that they might face consequences from their actions.
I expect Steffy to vent after Hope leaves. And Carter is going to warn Steffy and Ridge to be careful about their decisions because there may be consequences. And I’m sure this is Carter talking to them about Hope for the Future. He’s advocated heavily for it in the past when they were dating. Things are a little different now, but from a COO standpoint, I’m sure he has an opinion. I think Steffy won’t back down and that Hope is about to push back hard.
Bold and the Beautiful Spoilers: Hope Pushes Brooke
After the showdown with Steffy and Ridge is watching them like a tennis match, we’re going to see Hope leave and she heads over to talk to her mom at Brooke’s house. Hope is telling her mother that Brooke needs to fight for what she deserves at Forrester Creations.
And Hope is telling Brooke that she should be the co-CEO alongside Ridge and it should not be Steffy. And although Brooke looks a little stunned, she finally agrees and tells Hope that she is right. But if Brooke actually pushes for this, it could push Steffy over the edge. She’s already in a big Logan-hating phase, which she does semi-regularly, and Steffy just brought up the coup recently.
To his credit, Ridge kind of said, you know, we’re past that, but Steffy’s not past it clearly. And while she is saying that it’s Eric’s return to explain why they’re shutting down Hope for the Future for now, I think Hope is the one Logan that Steffy can actually punish. She can’t punish Brooke. She can’t punish Katie. So, I feel like Hope’s kind of the whipping girl for all that.
If Brooke presses Eric and Ridge to make her co-CEO, I think Steffy’s head is gonna explode. Especially if it comes out that Hope is the one who suggested that Brooke replace Steffy. I could see Steffy losing it and demanding that Ridge reject giving Brooke any more power. But of course, she may do an end run. You know, Brooke could go to Eric and talk about Steffy’s anti-Logan attitude and try and sway him because in the end, Eric is a total softie where Brooke is concerned.
Friday, May 8th on B&B: Donna Terrified for Her Family
Friday, May 8th, Donna Logan (Jennifer Gareis) is very worried that Katie is going to destroy the Logan sisterhood and family. Donna’s up at the Spencer Tower having lunch with Katie and she tells Donna that Logan needs another fashion icon and says, “You know, somebody like Hope.”
And Donna totally loses it and says Katie can’t do it because Brooke will go berserk if Hope joins Logan. But Katie may tell her, you know, it’s up to Hope. Steffy gets even more frustrated with Hope pushing about Hope for the Future. I think Steffy may either show Hope the door or Steffy may push her to the point that Hope thinks she has no choice but to walk out.
Week of May 11th-15th on Bold and the Beautiful: Dylan’s Worried About Remy
All right, let’s talk about the week of May 11th through the 15th. Dylan worries about what Remy might do if she doesn’t help him. Dylan may feel like she has no choice but to go to Deke and advocate for Remy, but that’s a hard thing to do and it’s going to be awkward. If Dylan reveals she is Remy’s cousin, I think Deke will be off-put and if Dylan doesn’t reveal it, she’ll land in trouble later. So, she may just start out by feeling Deke out, kind of seeing where his head is at.
Will Spencer (Crew Morrow) might freak out if he sees Remy creeping around Dylan. And of course, Electra will be horrified. This is also the perfect chance for RJ Forrester (Brayan Nicoletti) to play hero because Electra just told him that Will saved her from Remy. So RJ may want to one-up Will and make sure Remy can’t get close to Electra again.

Bold and the Beautiful Spoilers: Brooke Rocks the Boat
Brooke may nudge Ridge to put her into a position of greater power. I don’t think he would necessarily mind if that didn’t mean pushing Steffy aside, but Brooke may convince Ridge that Steffy’s judgment is askew. Bottom line, Ridge is caught between a rock and a hard place. In other words, Brooke versus Steffy. I expect Hope is going to decide that Logan is her future.
She may be wishing that Brooke can be co-CEO and revive her line, but since that seems unlikely, Hope may decide she has no choice but to go over and work with Katie, Liam, and Bill Spencer (Don Diamont) because she can’t work under these conditions.
When Will Deke Get Involved on B&B?
I also wonder at what point somebody is going to go talk to Deke, whether it’s Hope or it’s Liam. You know, if Hope’s still unsure about making the move, Liam may talk to Deke about the opportunity, knowing that he may press Hope to take the job. That way, Deke can come along and get back to his dream of fashion designing. And we know that Hope and Deke loved working together. I expect that Liam is going to convince Hope and he will be thrilled when she formally steps away from Forrester Creations and over to Logan. But of course, that’s going to cause a lot of explosions among the Forresters and the Logans.
And of course, we’re still waiting on Sheila Carter (Kimberlin Brown), Deacon Sharpe (Sean Kanan), and Taylor Hayes (Rebecca Budig) to pop up again, but I’m assuming that they are on the back burner until May sweeps is over, just based on the zero presence they’ve had during sweeps. And that wraps on Wednesday, May 20th, the week after the one we’re discussing. So maybe we’ll circle back around to these other characters then.
Entertainment
General Hospital Early Spoilers May 11-15: Dante Devastated & Sonny Makes Big Mistake!
General Hospital early weekly spoilers for May 11th through the 15th have Dante Falconeri (Dominic Zamprogna) reeling from a stunning revelation. While Sonny Corinthos (Maurice Benard) seems to be dead wrong about something and may make a huge mistake soon.
We have got sizzling stuff for Dante, Sonny and also the panic spreading about Josslyn Jacks (Eden McCoy) going missing. And as we always do on early edition day, we start with what happens the rest of this week, then we’ll dive into what is going on the week of May 11th. So, let’s get right to it.
General Hospital Spoilers Wednesday, May 6th
Wednesday, May 6th, we’ve got Britt Westbourne (Kelly Thiebaud) completely stunned by something. So, I’m kind of expecting Cassius Faison (Ryan Paevey) to stop by and tell Britt, “Oh, you know what? I took care of that pesky Josslyn issue and she won’t be a problem anymore.”
I do think that he will tell his sister what he did. And I think that Britt will be horrified to find out that Cassius has kidnapped Joss, locked her up on Spoon Island, and Britt may demand that Cassius let her go. Of course, he won’t.
At General Hospital, Isaiah Gannon (Sawandi Wilson) asks not-Nathan why he should ignore hospital protocol for him. I do wonder if Cassius is trying to get some info for his own nefarious uses or something from Isaiah to try and help Justine Turner (Nazneen Contractor) get the warrant that they want.
Sonny’s dealing with a dilemma and is telling Justine on Wednesday that this was Ric Lansing’s (Rick Hearst) last shot and he blew it. For what it’s worth, I do not think he is betraying Sonny. I do think it is something else. We’re going to do a standalone video about what’s going on with Ric. It’s too much to talk about with these early spoilers. So, look for that tomorrow.
Ethan Shaken Up on GH
So, Ethan Lovett (Nathan Dean Parsons) is hiding something and I’m sure it’s about Delilah Wilson (Lily Cardone), the mystery lady who we met for 5 seconds and then she died giving birth. Over at the Quartermaine Mansion, Harrison Chase (Josh Swickard) is telling Brook Lynn Quartermaine (Amanda Setton) and Ethan that he just can’t shake the feeling that Delilah had something to hide.
Remember, they looked into everything and there wasn’t a lot of stuff in her purse, but everything was high-end, so it was a little off. And I just wonder if there’s any chance that Ethan is little Phoebe’s father. That would make it a Spencer baby. Now, I tend to not think he is just based on his reaction to the reveal that Delilah is Phoebe’s mom.
Meanwhile, Dante visits Elizabeth Webber (Rebecca Herbst) at General Hospital. So, Dante approaches Liz at the nurse’s station and says he has a favor to ask. Dante may also be poking around about Isaiah and be asking Liz some questions to get a warrant. Also, Laura Spencer Collins (Genie Francis) protects somebody. Looks like it’s Elizabeth.
So, Laura had just talked to Liz who asked her to check in on Aiden Spencer (Colin Cassidy) because she’s going out of town with Ric. And Laura is very worried about her dating Ric because his past and because he’s working for Sonny on the illegal side of things. But Ric tells Laura if he ends things now, Elizabeth will never give him another chance. So Laura may be pressing Ric to walk away and not put Elizabeth in any danger.
GH Spoilers Thursday, May 7th on General Hospital: Molly Gets Suspicious
Then on Thursday, May 7th, we’ve got Molly Lansing-Davis (Kristin Vaganos) getting suspicious. I wonder if this is about Ric since he is on the front burner right now. We had that secret conversation he had with Ava Jerome (Maura West) at the end of April and we didn’t get to hear hardly any of that.
So, we don’t know what it’s about. And then this week, he made that cryptic phone call. Ric called Ava while he was on the docks. I know Sonny is suspicious, but I tend to think this is something personal for Ric and has zero to do with Sonny or Jenz Sidwell (Carlo Rota) or any of that.
Plus, we’re going to see Valentin Cassadine (James Patrick Stuart) reaching out to Nina Reeves (Cynthia Watros). So, Valentin may tell Nina that Brennan knows he’s in Port Charles. And I’m super curious if Valentin tells Nina he’s been hiding out with Carly Spencer (Laura Wright). And if he tells her that they are a couple. I bet Jack Brennan (Chris McKenna) is going to tell Nina even if Valentin doesn’t.
General Hospital Spoilers: Carly in a Panic
Plus, Carly gets some alarming information, and I think it’s that Joss is missing. Trina may call to ask if Joss is with Carly because she’s not seen her. I would expect Joss’s mom to immediately suspect that Brennan is either behind this for payback about Valentin or it’s finally come around and the WSB has put her daughter at risk.
Gio Palmieri (Giovanni Mazza) makes a pact with Trina Robinson (Tabyana Ali), maybe about helping find Joss or maybe about them performing at Charlie’s. Willow Corinthos (Katelyn MacMullen) is feeling confident in her plan, and we’ll see if this is about Michael Corinthos (Rory Gibson) or about keeping Drew Cain (Cameron Mathison) under control and locked in and keeping Elizabeth away.
GH Spoilers Friday, May 8th: Cassius Pressures Lulu
Then on Friday, May 8th, we’ve got Cassius amping up the pressure on Lulu Spencer (Alexa Havins Bruening). I think that Cassius may mention again that Lulu should send Rocco Falconeri (Finn Carr) away, but if he does, all he’s going to do is push Lulu away. After the unhinged way that Cassius attacked Joss, like super violently, those were stunt people, by the way, for that fight, and then he’s locked her away.
I think we are seeing more of who the real Cassius Faison is at this point. Felicia Scorpio (Kristina Wagner) is supportive of Lucas and Carly has an announcement on Friday, so she may head to the PCPD to reveal that Josslyn’s missing. Sonny goes to extremes and this may involve Ric.
Plus, Dante is reeling and it could be from a chat with Liz. So, she stops by his office at the PCPD and Dante tells Liz someone else got their hands on that gun. And Liz says, “I think I know who it was.” Now, this may be about the gun that shot Drew because Elizabeth has been very suspicious about what’s going on with Drew. Or it could be about Ross Cullum (Andrew Hawkes) if Liz got a peek at Rocco’s hand injury and wants to warn his dad since she sees the kid a lot at the hospital.

Week of May 11th-15th on General Hospital
Then the week of May 11th through the 15th, we’ve got Brennan heartbroken and angry and then finding out that Josslyn is missing. He is going to be very concerned and I think he will immediately suspect that Cullum has a role in this because Joss wouldn’t stop poking the bear.
He told her to, but she wouldn’t. Jack may need to go reassure Carly that no matter what else is going on, he will find Josslyn. And he may also tell Carly that he warned Joss to leave things alone, but she kept poking into Cullum. Also, Gio stands by Emma Scorpio-Drake (Brayden Bruner) as she gets more concerned about Anna Devane (Finola Hughes).
Isaiah and Portia Robinson (Brook Kerr) enjoy some romantic time. But of course, Curtis Ashford (Donnell Turner) is about to make a lot of trouble for them. Brook lyn and Chase want to adopt Phoebe, but Ethan could be a problem. If he’s not Phoebe’s father, I’m betting that Ethan knows who is.
Carly remains frantic because Josslyn is missing. Nobody’s seen her. I wonder if Cassius has Josslyn’s phone and is going to try and send some fake text, you know, saying she decided to leave town. I don’t think it’s something anybody will buy.
General Hospital Spoilers: Ric & Liz Get Away for Some Romance
Ric and Elizabeth head off for a romantic weekend soon and they may finally make love. I also think Ric is hiding something that Liz needs to know, but I just don’t think it is related to Sonny. Plus, we could see Lulu taking a big step back from Cassius, especially if he keeps pressuring her.
I expect that he won’t like it if Lulu taps the brakes because he is addicted to this affection and approval that he’s gotten while pretending to be Nathan. And he may start acting more like Peter August (Wes Ramsey) than Nathan. I mean, Cassius is definitely the bad twin.
Once Dante finds out that Rocco shot Cullum, he’s going to be furious that Lulu hid this from him and really angry at not Nathan, too, because they both lied to his face. Anna’s return is coming up hopefully before the end of May sweeps. we’ll get a glimpse of her. Sweeps wraps on Wednesday, May 20th. So fingers crossed.
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