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The Lizzie Borden Story’s Director on Practically Shooting That “Extremely Difficult” Scene

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Summary

  • In an interview with Collider, director Max Winkler says The Red Shoes, Atonement, and South Park inspired the show’s wild look.
  • Winkler sees Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story as a love story between Lizzie and Bridget.
  • The projectile vomiting scene used practical effects and took extensive testing to get right.

There’s a good chance you’ve seen something Max Winkler has worked on. His television directing resume is long, including everything from Ryan Murphy shows like American Horror Story, Feud: Capote vs. The Swans, and Monster to comedies like New Girl, Fresh Off the Boat, and Crazy Ex-Girlfriend. His list of film credits is smaller but just as impressive, including the underrated, irreverent dramedy Flower, which was nominated for Best U.S. Narrative Feature at Tribeca in 2017, and sports drama Jungleland.

Winkler once again reunited with Murphy and Ian Brennan to direct Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story, which follows a young woman (Ella Beatty) who was accused (and later acquitted) of killing her parents with an axe in Fall River, Massachusetts, in 1892. Those who have watched the previous installments of Monster might be surprised to know that this season takes on a more overly comedic tone, though that humor is, admittedly, extremely dark. The show has a unique visual language to match its zany dialogue, making for a fun and stylish watch.

Collider got the chance to speak to Winkler about crafting the series’ look and feel. During the conversation, he discussed the references he drew inspiration from, filming that wild vomiting scene, why he views the show as a love story at its core, and more.

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‘Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story’s Director Breaks Down the Show’s Unique Visuals

“The rules were kind of like, ‘Let’s be on acid.’”

COLLIDER: First of all, I just want to say I love Flower. It’s one of my favorite movies.

MAX WINKLER: They’re kind of companion pieces.

They really kind of are, in a way! I am so obsessed with the aesthetic of the show and some of the shots: with the soup, the flash pan where she hits her in the face. How did you develop the visual language for this, and what were some of the inspirations for it?

WINKLER: I love these directors, Powell and Pressburger. They did The Red Shoes and Black Narcissus, and their stuff is very theatrical. It’s lit in a very specific English way with very hot lights. Michael Bauman is the cinematographer. He’s a genius. He was nominated for an Oscar this year, and we did Ed Gein together, and we just wanted it to be kind of berserk and crazy. We had rules, but the rules were kind of like, “Let’s be on acid.” That was why we had the iris thing and why the camera moves so crazy.

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I was in film school at USC, and Joe Wright brought Pride & Prejudice to our class. I was really inspired by it because he’s dyslexic, and I’ve always been very, very dyslexic. I loved watching a period piece where you could actually feel the makeup peeling off. I loved that you could feel the sweat, the hair wasn’t perfect, and the furniture was falling apart. And then he did Atonement after that, and the camera moved super deliberately. I thought about Atonement a lot, Age of Innocence, South Park. And then something that was important to me was Noises Off, which is a play and a movie where people are constantly walking in and out of rooms, slamming doors, coming back, and I loved the rhythm of it all.



















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Collider Exclusive · 8 Questions · 2 Minutes
What Is Your Biggest Horror Nightmare?
Elm Street · Chucky · Scream · The Conjuring

Four horror franchises. Four completely different ways of scaring you. One waits until you fall asleep. One makes sure nobody believes you. One is already in your group of friends. And one is in the house with your family. Answer eight quick questions about how you actually watch horror, and find out which nightmare was built for you.

😴Elm Street(Freddy Krueger)

🧸Chucky(Child’s Play)

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📞Scream(Ghostface)

🕯️The Conjuring(The Warren Files)

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01

Which horror scene makes you cover your eyes?
Four classic images. One of them is worse than the others for you.




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02

You are home alone and you hear a noise. First thought?
Everybody has one. It arrives before you have decided anything.




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03

Which horror movie rule would you break first?
Everybody thinks they would survive. Almost nobody actually does.




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04

Something genuinely frightening happens. What do you do?
Not in a film. In your actual living room, tonight.




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05

How do you actually watch a horror film?
Be honest about this one. Nobody is checking.




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06

Somebody offers you serious money. Which do you still refuse?
The amount does not matter. There is one on this list you are not doing.




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07

Which feeling stays with you a week after the film?
Good horror does not stop when the credits do.




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08

Something wakes you at 3am. What is the worst possibility?
Eight questions in, this is the one that decides your nightmare.




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The Lights Just Went Out
Your Nightmare Is…

Four franchises, four completely different ways of getting underneath
your skin. This is the one built out of your particular fear, why it works so well on you, and what
it would leave behind.

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A Nightmare on Elm Street · Since 1984

Elm Street

Your nightmare does not wait outside the door. It waits for you
to close your eyes, which you are going to have to do eventually, because nobody has ever
won that particular argument.

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  • Freddy is horror’s cruellest idea: a threat that lives in the one place you cannot
    guard, cannot lock, and cannot avoid forever.
  • You are the one who is fine during the film and wide awake at two in the morning. Your
    own head is where this does its damage.
  • These films understood exhaustion as a horror engine. The kids on Elm Street do not lose
    because they are weak. They lose because they are tired.
  • You can lock every door in the house. You still have to sleep.


Child’s Play · Chucky · Since 1988

Chucky

Your nightmare is not really the doll. It is the face of the
person you tell, and the way they decide, very kindly, that you have imagined all of it.

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  • Chucky works precisely because he is absurd. That is the trap: the more accurately you
    describe him, the less anybody is going to believe you.
  • You are the one shouting at the screen because the characters are not listening. You
    know that feeling from real life too.
  • The franchise is at its best when the adults in the room are the real obstacle, and you
    have met those adults.
  • By the time somebody finally believes you, you will have handled most of it on your own.


Scream · Ghostface · Since 1996

Scream

Your nightmare has your number, knows your name, and has almost
certainly been inside your house before. The worst part is that you already know them.

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  • Scream is the only one of these where the killer takes the mask off and turns out to be
    somebody who was at the party.
  • You are the person who calls the twist out loud before it lands. You watch people the
    same way you watch films.
  • The franchise made the rules of horror part of the plot, which means the survivors are
    the ones paying attention. You would be paying attention.
  • Everybody is a suspect, including the person who just offered to walk you home.


The Conjuring · The Warren Files · Since 2013

The Conjuring

Your nightmare is not really about you. It is about the people
asleep down the hall, and the feeling that whatever is here is not interested in leaving.

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  • The Conjuring films are domestic horror. The house, the family, the perfectly ordinary
    room that quietly stops feeling ordinary.
  • Your instinct is to get everybody into one room. Your fear is protective rather than
    personal, which is rarer than it sounds.
  • This is the one franchise where belief is the weapon. The people who come through it are
    the ones who are not alone and refuse to be.
  • Whatever is here did not come for you. It came for the household, and you are the one
    standing in the hallway.

I feel like that really shines through. Is there a certain shot that you are proudest of?

WINKLER: No, I don’t care about the shots. I try really hard to make them great, and I love the opening, but I’m proudest of the actors. I think the ensemble is so, so good. I love Nancy O’Neill smoking a cigarette, pissing in a chamber pot, and putting in her fake teeth. I love everything Rebecca Hall does. I love Vicky cleaning the couch. I love Ella standing with the tea like a freak. I love Charlie smoking his cigar and getting his feet rubbed. There are so many things I love in it. I wanted the actors to feel really free, and I wanted to protect them so they could do weird stuff and we could just experiment because the scripts are so good. I wanted it to have energy, excitement, and immediacy.

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‘Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story’s Director Says the Show Is a Love Story

“When you have an actor who is doing that and surprising you, you want to shoot it.”

Monster-The-Lizzie-Borden-Story-Ian-Brennan-interview

I’m so glad you mentioned the couch scene because I love the sort of sexy moments you find in things that are not traditionally sexy. We have that and the cherry bath, which is a little bit bizarre. I’m curious if you can talk about finding the sensuality in these really interesting moments.

WINKLER: I think of the show as a love story between Bridget and Lizzie. That was very much my North Star when we were making it with Ryan and Ian and what we talked about. I could feel their chemistry so strongly. And Vicky is like Greta Garbo. She can just make anything interesting. I didn’t even know that those were the socks that Vicky was gonna wear. Vicky chose those socks and stirrups without telling anybody. That was just her idea, so I’m seeing that for the first time, and then, when you have an actor who is doing that and surprising you, you want to shoot it. That’s what makes it sexy — when she lifts it up and you see that sock. I always knew that I wanted the couch cleaning to have dissolves and to be this very romantic, sexual moment, because we’re in such a repressed time where nobody says what they’re feeling. I wanted Vicky to be the inciting incident — to be the crack in the paint that kind of unlocks the whole thing.

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‘Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story’s Director Talks Shooting That Vomit Scene Practically

“It was like preparing for Omaha Beach in Saving Private Ryan.”

Rebecca Hall for Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story
Rebecca Hall for Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story
Image via Netflix

I also have to ask about the projectile vomiting.

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WINKLER: People are very into that.

I’m just curious how you approach that logistically.

WINKLER: That was difficult. Our best people were on it. It took so long. It was so hard. I was so scared. It was all practical. The editing of it was a beast. Jack Price, our editor, is a genius. Greg Pawlik, our AD, was a genius. Louise Shore, our producer, figured out how we could do as many tests as possible. Ante, our special effects guy, did tests. Rebecca’s terrified of things in her mouth, having to vomit, and being around people who vomit, so that was horrible. Charlie actually ate one of those oysters for me. The diarrhea I’m very proud of because we do a crash zoom on Charlie’s pants in that moment. Ian wrote, “It’s the cardamom,” so when you have an amazing line like that, it all totally makes sense. But it was like preparing for Omaha Beach in Saving Private Ryan. It was so hard, and it was about getting the consistency right — doing it without the vomit, then doing it with the vomit. How far can the vomit go before we lose them? Ryan and I talked about, very early on, that we wanted it to feel like when you go to the Bellagio, and you hear the Andrea Bocelli song and that it was like a symphony, so I hope we did it.

Oh, you absolutely did. Very memorable. This is obviously not the first time you’ve worked on the Monster anthology. Is there a story that you think is ripe for getting the Monster treatment?

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WINKLER: I don’t know. I’m always blown away at what Ryan and Ian come up with. I think they’re geniuses and so sensitive and curious that my favorite part of the process is being surprised by them. They were originally going to write about something else, and they were hitting some roadblocks in their creative process. They couldn’t figure out what the way through was. Getting that phone call, I was editing Ed Gein and a day away from starting Love Story. Charlie and Ryan called me, and he said, “What do you know about Lizzie Borden?” I said, “Very little except that I made a movie with Charlie and Jess Barden in Fall River, Massachusetts.” And he said, “Will you read some of these pages for me?” And I said, “I thought you were making a show about so and so.” He said, “Just read it and tell me what you think.” The tone and the deliciousness of it were there. It was perfect in the way that Ian writes and the dramaturgy that comes from Ryan’s brain. That is my favorite part — them saying, “Will you read this?” and getting to be shocked and surprised.

Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story is streaming on Netflix.


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Release Date

2026 – 2026-00-00

Network
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Netflix

Directors

Max Winkler, Sarah Adina Smith

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Writers

Ian Brennan

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Cast

  • Cast Placeholder Image

    Vicky Krieps

    Bridget Sullivan

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  • Cast Placeholder Image

    Ella Beatty

    Lizzie Borden

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Christina Applegate Debuts New Look After Hospitalization

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Christina Applegate at the Los Angeles premiere of STX Entertainment's 'Bad Moms'

Christina Applegate has returned to social media with a new look following her months-long hospitalization. The 54-year-old actress revealed freshly colored blonde hair in an Instagram video shared Monday, marking her first video appearance since returning home from the hospital in August. Applegate smiled for the camera and thanked hairstylist David Stanwell for lifting her spirits as she continues navigating serious health challenges, including multiple sclerosis.

Christina Applegate Shows Off Her Fresh Blonde Hair

Christina Applegate at the Los Angeles premiere of STX Entertainment's 'Bad Moms'
FayesVision/WENN.com/ MEGA

The “Married… With Children” alum wore her newly colored hair straight and parted down the middle in the brief video.

“Fresh hair color, new weird spot on my cheek haha,” Applegate wrote in the caption, referencing a mark visible on her face. “Thank you @davestanwell for brightening up my cloudy day. Love you and love to you all out there.”

The Actress Returned Home After A Lengthy Hospital Stay

Applegate was reportedly discharged in August after being hospitalized in Los Angeles since late March. Sources told TMZ that she was doing well after returning home. However, few details about her treatment have been released. It remains unclear whether the hospitalization was directly connected to her MS or another medical condition.

Applegate’s representative previously declined to confirm the reason for her hospital stay. “I have no comment on whether she is in the hospital or what her medical treatments are,” the representative told Entertainment Weekly. “She’s had a long history of complicated medical conditions that she has been refreshingly open about, as evidenced in her memoir and on her podcast.”

Christina Applegate Reassured Fans During Her Hospitalization

Christina Applegate at 26th Annual SAG Awards
Jen Lowery / MEGA

Applegate first addressed her health publicly in April, approximately one month after she was reportedly admitted to the hospital. The actress shared a photograph of her memoir, “You With The Sad Eyes,” and explained that she needed time to prioritize her recovery.

“Thank you for the outpouring of love and well wishes. Health issues are a constant for me, but I’m a strong chick, and I’m getting stronger and better every day. I’m taking a moment to focus on my health, but I’ll be back with more to say soon enough,” she wrote.

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Her latest video appeared to fulfill that promise by allowing fans to see her smiling and enjoying a moment of self-care. Applegate has not announced whether she has resumed any professional projects. Her public comments remain focused on her health, family, and the realities of living with a chronic illness.

The ‘Dead To Me’ Star Has Been Mostly Confined To Bed

Christina Applegate attends the 25th Annual Critic's Choice Awards - Los Angeles
Jen Lowery / MEGA

Earlier this year, Applegate revealed that pain and exhaustion had left her spending much of her time in bed. She told PEOPLE that she still makes an effort to take her teenage daughter, Sadie, to school because the drive gives them private time together.

“I want to take her; it’s my favorite thing to do. It’s the only time we have together by ourselves,” Applegate said. “I tell myself, ‘Just get her there safely and get home so you can get back into bed.’ And that’s what I do.”

Applegate has emphasized that she does not want to present her health journey as a neatly packaged inspirational story. “My life isn’t wrapped up with a bow. People’s lives, sorry for lack of a better term, f-cking suck sometimes. So I’m being as honest and raw as I possibly can,” she said.

Christina Applegate Described The Exhaustion Caused By MS

Christina Applegate is seen arriving to AOL Build Series at Build Studio in New York City
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Applegate announced in August 2021 that she had been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. According to the Mayo Clinic, MS occurs when the immune system attacks myelin, the protective sheath surrounding nerve fibers. That damage can interfere with communication between the brain and the rest of the body.

Symptoms can include weakness, numbness, difficulty walking, and changes to a person’s vision. The condition can affect each person differently.

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The Actress Says Hospital Visits Have Become A Regular Part Of Her Life

Christina Applegate at 26th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards
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Applegate has previously revealed that her recent extended stay was far from her only hospitalization since receiving her diagnosis. During an episode of her “MeSsy” podcast, which she co-hosts with fellow actress Jamie-Lynn Sigler, Applegate said she had repeatedly returned to the hospital for testing and treatment.

“For three years since I was diagnosed, I’ve been in the hospital upwards of 30 times,” she said. “That is unimaginable, okay? They’ve done every test known to man on me, put so much radiation into my body from CT scans to everything else.”

Despite the toll of her illness and recent hospitalization, Applegate’s new video showed her embracing a brighter moment.

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Matthew McConaughey Reveals Fights With Woody Harrelson

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Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson

Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson have spent nearly three decades proving that Hollywood friendships can survive just about anything. Their bond has produced hit movies, unforgettable interviews, and even speculation that they might actually be related. 

Yet behind the laughs and brotherly affection lies a competitive streak that occasionally spills over into something far more physical. 

As the longtime friends prepare to bring their off-screen chemistry to a new series, McConaughey is making it clear their relationship remains as unpredictable as ever.

Matthew McConaughey Says Fights With Woody Harrelson Have Left Their Mark

Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson
Starbuck/ AFF-USA.COM / MEGA

The upcoming release of “Brothers” has revived interest in one of Hollywood’s most enduring friendships, but Matthew McConaughey isn’t pretending the relationship has always been smooth sailing. 

While discussing their decades-long bond with Entertainment Weekly, the Oscar winner admitted some of their disagreements have gotten physical enough to leave visible damage.

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“Blood has been drawn,” McConaughey revealed while speaking about Harrelson, adding, “No broken bones. Blood has been drawn, though, and will be drawn again.”

Harrelson quickly added another injury to the list, recalling a “chipped tooth” incident. McConaughey clarified that his friend caused that particular mishap, while Harrelson followed up with, “Cracked lip.” 

The actor then summed up the nature of their altercations with, “That kind of thing.”

McConaughey couldn’t resist poking fun at his longtime pal’s explanation for one of the accidents. Joking that Harrelson had “accidentally overswung” and caught him in the jaw, he dismissed the excuse entirely.

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“One of the great athletes of all of time with incredible special sense,” McConaughey quipped, adding, “Such a bulls— excuse when he says, ‘Oh, I didn’t mean to extend it, miss it by four inches long.’ He knows exactly where every part of his body is.”

McConaughey And Harrelson Turn Conflict Into Brotherhood

Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson
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What makes the pair’s friendship unusual is not that they clash, but how little those clashes seem to matter afterward. 

Harrelson acknowledged that conflict had been a recurring part of their relationship, describing years of disagreements and stubborn standoffs between two strong personalities.

“There has been a lot of times in our relationship where we butt heads,” the 65-year-old admitted.

Yet every dispute appeared to follow the same pattern. Tempers cooled, drinks were poured, and the friendship carried on. Harrelson stressed that their connection ultimately outweighed whatever argument sparked the latest confrontation.

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“In the end, we f*cking love each other. We hug it out. We mix a drink. Everything’s groovy,” he explained.

That dynamic has sustained a friendship dating back to 1997, when Matthew McConaughey and Harrelson first crossed paths while working on “EDtv.”

Matthew McConaughey And Woody Harrelson’s New Series Revives The Wild Family Theory

The latest chapter in their partnership arrives through “Brothers,” an Apple TV comedy inspired by a bizarre question that has followed them for years: could they actually be family?

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The theory emerged after McConaughey’s mother suggested she once “knew” Harrelson’s father, a remark that sparked speculation that the two actors might share more than friendship. Rather than ignore the rumor, they decided to build an entire comedy around it.

Still, McConaughey emphasized that viewers shouldn’t mistake the show for a documentary.

“We fictionalized it enough so it’s heightened enough and off-the-ground enough where there’s really nothing in it that anyone can say to our kids, ‘Hey are you really doing…’ — No, they’re not. They didn’t do that,” he explained.

Calling the series “a loose portrayal of their ages and our family size,” McConaughey made clear that reality served only as a starting point. 

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Harrelson, meanwhile, is already thinking beyond the first season, saying there is “something in this” and adding, “I would love to keep doing this.”

More From The Blast

McConaughey Admits DNA Test Could Upend Family Mystery

The brotherhood theory surrounding Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson isn’t going away anytime soon, but the duo recently revealed why they’d been reluctant to get a definitive answer.

While discussing the possibility of taking a DNA test with E! News, Harrelson made it clear he had little doubt about where things stood. “He’s more my brother than my brothers,” he said before adding, “No question. I believe it 100 percent.”

McConaughey, however, wasn’t quite as convinced. “I do not,” he replied, prompting Harrelson to fire back, “He wants to keep his father as his father, even though his father is my father.”

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The exchange quickly turned into the kind of playful back-and-forth that has defined their friendship for decades, but McConaughey also hinted that the issue is more complicated than fans might realize.

“We don’t need to take a DNA test, but I’ll probably end up doing it,” he admitted. The actor went on to explain why the prospect gave him pause.

“If it’s true—geez, that’s a whole lot for me to unpack. If it’s not true, that’s a whole lot for him now to unpack. He’s not gonna be near as fun to hang around if it ain’t true,” the “Interstellar” star shared.

Matthew McConaughey Says Woody Harrelson’s Daughters Feel Like Family

Matthew McConaughey
ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

Whether McConaughey and Harrelson are actually related remains unanswered, but listening to the pair discuss their families, it’s easy to see why the speculation refuses to die.

Speaking to PEOPLE at the “Brothers” premiere on September 17, Harrelson made it clear that his admiration for McConaughey extended well beyond their work together. 

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“He’s a great father,” the “Now You See Me” actor said while discussing his longtime friend. He then turned the attention to McConaughey’s children, adding, “I love his kids. They’re great kids.” 

McConaughey responded by revealing just how close he had become with Harrelson’s daughters over the years. 

Rather than describing their relationship as a typical friendship between families, he suggested it has evolved into something much deeper.

“I have uncle conversations with his daughters,” McConaughey explained, offering a glimpse into the role he now plays in their lives.

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Where Mikayla Matthews Stands With Taylor Frankie Paul’s Exit

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Mikayla Matthews addresses possible 'SLOMW' return

Mikayla Matthews has made it clear that she is not changing her mind about leaving “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.”

The reality star addressed the question directly after Taylor Frankie Paul also announced her own exit from the Hulu series. Mikayla said her concerns remain unresolved, even though she does not know what the future holds.

Mikayla Matthews’ departure follows months of tension with Taylor Frankie Paul, including public disagreements and changing dynamics within the “SLOMW” cast. The two stars had previously clashed online before Matthews later said they were in a “good” place.

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Mikayla Matthews Confirms She Is Not Coming Back To ‘SLOMW

Mikayla Matthews addresses possible 'SLOMW' return
Instagram Stories | Mikayla Matthews

Mikayla directly addressed questions about whether Taylor’s departure could change her decision. Her answer made it clear that she is not currently planning to return to the series. “To answer your question, no, I will not be coming back,” Mikayla wrote.

She added that everyone has to do what is best for themselves, making it clear that her decision belongs to her. Mikayla explained that she was the only cast member who chose to leave because of “MANY reasons.” She also pointed to the recent developments surrounding the show as another reason she remains firm.

The mother of four said she had repeatedly taken her concerns to the “right people” and went out of her way to address them. She added that there were “so many things wrong with this situation” because of one person’s actions and how everything was handled afterward. She acknowledged that she cannot predict what will happen in the future. 

Still, she said her decision remains unchanged “right now,” leaving open the possibility that circumstances could eventually look different. Mikayla also called for broader changes within the situation. She said, “I think we can collectively agree that a lot of changes need to be made,” as seen on her Instagram story.

Taylor Frankie Paul’s Exit Comes After A Major Cast Fallout

Taylor Frankie Paul
ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

Taylor announced that she was leaving “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” after appearing on the show since its first season in 2024. Her departure came amid intense cast conflict and the fallout from her reported domestic violence case involving ex-husband Dakota Mortensen.

She said she was grateful to the networks that supported her and gave her the opportunity to return. However, Taylor said, “I don’t desire to move forward like this.” She explained that she had previously been willing to leave so the other women could continue with less stress.

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Taylor also spoke about what she described as ongoing “bullying” connected to the show. She said some of her co-stars knew what she had experienced before collectively piling on with their statements. Taylor also claimed there had been ongoing abuse through the system for eight months.

Her announcement received support from some viewers in the comments. One fan said they “fully support” Taylor, while another praised her for finally addressing the bullying.

Other commenters accused the cast of being mean to her and said they believed some women were constantly looking for problems with Taylor, as shared by The Blast.

Mikayla Matthews’ Exit Was Tied To Taylor’s Return

Taylor’s announcement also brought Mikayla’s earlier decision back into focus. Mikayla had already told viewers that she would not film the sixth season if Taylor returned to the series. “The ONLY reason I’m leaving the show is because I was told a certain person was coming back,” Mikayla said online.

She explained that she had warned production before agreeing to film. She said that she would not participate if that person returned. Mikayla said she initially agreed to film because Taylor was not part of the production.

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Once production allowed Taylor to return, Mikayla reportedly said she immediately changed course. She recalled telling production, “Great, then I will not be participating, god bless and goodbye.” Mikayla said she had not filmed a day since making that decision, showing how firmly she connected her exit to the change.

Mikayla Is Looking Beyond Her ‘SLOMW’ Chapter

Leaving the series does not mean Mikayla plans to disappear from public life. Her time on “SLOMW” has included conversations about motherhood, marriage, personal struggles, and her healing journey. Those parts of her life remain central to what she wants to share with viewers.

Mikayla has also used her platform to connect with people dealing with difficult health experiences. Her advocacy has become another part of her public identity outside the reality series. She has continued looking for ways to turn her own experiences into support for others.

The Blast reported that Mikayla planned to bring someone from her community on a wellness retreat. She opened nominations for someone dealing with chronic health challenges and offered to cover their flight and treatment. The effort reflected the kind of support she said she felt fortunate to receive herself.

Mikayla Matthews And Taylor Frankie Paul Have Been At Odds

Taylor Frankie Paul at the 58th Annual CMA Awards
Curtis Hilbun / AFF-USA.COM / MEGA

The tension between Mikayla and Taylor did not begin with the latest season. Their relationship had already become strained after months of public disagreements surrounding Taylor’s legal situation and her relationship with Dakota. Mikayla had previously said she wanted to be “as removed as possible” from Taylor and Dakota during their legal troubles.

Taylor responded publicly, accusing Mikayla of kicking her while she was already struggling and describing her as a “snake friend.” The disagreement later shifted toward the cast’s success and who deserved credit for opportunities connected to the show.

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Mikayla pushed back after Taylor appeared to suggest that her influence had helped the other women receive opportunities. In July, The Blast noted that Mikayla accused Taylor of “manipulating” her following to maintain a position of power over her co-stars.

Mikayla argued that the show had been pitched by several women and that each cast member had worked hard for the opportunities they received. The fallout reportedly created additional strain among the women as filming continued.

Will Mikayla Matthews and Taylor Frankie Paul call a truce anytime soon?

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Cindy Crawford ‘In Shock’ Over Son’s Death

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'Palm Royale' Beverly Hills Premiere

Cindy Crawford is doing the best she can after her son’s sudden death on Sunday, September 20. As tributes dedicated to Crawford’s son, Presley Gerber, continue to pour in, a source close to the supermodel said her son’s passing has put her in a state of “shock.”

Presley was 27 and is survived by his mother, father Rande Gerber, and his younger sister, Kaia Gerber. More information about his death is coming to light, but official reports revealed that the model died at a rehabilitation facility in the Los Angeles, California, area.

Cindy Crawford ‘In Shock’ And ‘Heartbroken’ Over Her Son’s Death

'Palm Royale' Beverly Hills Premiere
ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

A source spoke with PEOPLE in the wake of Presley’s death and said his mother is “heartbroken” over the news. “Cindy is completely in shock over Presley’s devastating death,” the source shared.

Another source close to the Crawford/Gerber family also revealed that Presley’s younger sister, Kaia, is also struggling to come to terms with the tragic loss of her brother.

“They are saddened beyond words,” the source said. “Kaia loved that Presley was so open about his struggles; his family was so proud that he was finding strength in helping others.”

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Cindy Crawford And Rande Gerber Were Not ‘Absent Hollywood Parents’

Presley Walker Gerber at the Los Angeles World Premiere Of CJ 4DPLEX's 'Infinite Icon: A Visual Memoir'
Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency / MEGA

According to The Blast, Presley died in September 2026 at a rehabilitation center after struggling with addiction. A family rep confirmed the news and asked for the family’s privacy.

A spokesperson from the LA County Medical Examiner’s office said that Presley’s death was being investigated and that “limited information” is available.

An additional statement from the examiner’s office said the “cause and manner of death have been deferred, which means additional testing and/or studies were requested in order to make a determination.”

Before his death, Presley had spoken openly about his challenges, and according to a second source close to Cindy, his family did all they could to help.

“This was never a situation involving two absent Hollywood parents,” they said. “Cindy and Rande could not have been more supportive of Presley. They were always there for him and did everything they could to help him. The family has always been incredibly close, and Presley was deeply loved.”

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Presley Gerber Struggled With Mental Health

In a 2023 interview, Presley opened up to podcast hosts on the “Studio 22” show about some of his struggles with mental health and depression and said his hope was to inspire other people to seek help.

“[Mental health] is an issue. It is such a big part of my life. It’s a 24/7 job, and there’s so much to it,” he said. “That’s really what I want to do: help people, whether you’re depressed, you’re struggling with something that is having a negative effect on your body. I mean it could be anything, and there’s no judgment.”

Crawford Said She Was ‘So Proud’ Of Her Kids

Cindy Crawford wearing a Missoni dress arrives at the 6th Annual InStyle Awards 2021
Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency / MEGA

Before her son’s death, Crawford said she was “proud” of her kids, who starred together in a modeling campaign for the performance wear company Vuori.

“It was like watching their interaction with each other. Nothing makes, I think, a parent prouder than when your kids like each other and love each other,” she said. “I mean, of course, we’ll always be parents, our kids are always a priority. They just don’t need us as much as they did, so we can enjoy each other more.”

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Presley’s Sister Praised Him Before His Death

Kaia Gerber at the 13th Annual LACMA Art + Film Gala 2024
Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency / MEGA

In a separate interview, Presley’s sister, Kaia, praised him for speaking candidly about his mental health struggles. She said it took courage for her brother to share his story because they grew up keeping their personal lives private because of their celebrity status.

“My parents for most of our lives were very, very private and didn’t share anything — and now we have this absolute teacher, my brother, who says, ‘I’m gonna be very human for everyone.’ There’s only so much you can hide from the world,” she said.

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Copy Nicole Kidman’s $11,000 ‘Flap Bag’ Look for $26 on Amazon

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Actress Katie Holmes is seen arriving to the Christian Siriano Fall/Winter 2025 fashion show at Chelsea Industrial on February 06, 2025 in New York City.

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Basic totes will always be a wardrobe staple, but Nicole Kidman highlighted one major reason to consider a classy flap bag instead. It offers the same carry-everything practicality, while keeping wallets, laptops and other essentials more covered and secure. Add in the luxe hardware and structured silhouette, and it’s a practical fall switch that looks considerably more chic, too.

On September 9, 2026, Kidman was spotted rolling through Sydney Airport wearing a blue lace top, baseball cap, medium-wash jeans and dark sunglasses. She finished the look with a massive black Chanel flap bag, which costs around $11,000. Thankfully, there’s a similar black flap bag on Amazon that captures the same practical-meets-polished appeal for $26.

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Get the Lovevook Soft Faux Leather Tote Bag for $26 (was $27) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

The Lovevook Soft Faux Leather Tote has a sleek silhouette, gold hardware, reinforced top handles and a wide flap with a rotating turn-lock closure. Unlike an open tote, the fold-over design keeps belongings more tucked away — an especially useful detail for commuting, traveling or navigating a crowded airport. And at $26, it delivers the luxe look without the designer price tag.

Actress Katie Holmes is seen arriving to the Christian Siriano Fall/Winter 2025 fashion show at Chelsea Industrial on February 06, 2025 in New York City.


Related: Get Katie Holmes’ Sporty NYC Rich Mom Matching Set Look for $25

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Katie Holmes has basically mastered the art of looking like an NYC rich mom, and her latest outfit might be one of the easiest to copy yet. Instead of jeans or leggings, the actress reached for a relaxed matching set that somehow made loungewear feel appropriate for a coffee run, lunch date and everything in […]

Made with a faux leather exterior, the roomy laptop bag is soft yet durable enough to handle the daily trip to the office. Some people also note that the pebbled leather design is easy to spot clean, so you don’t have to worry about dirt or stains either. The material is also pretty sturdy, keeping the bag upright when not being carried over your shoulder.

Shoppers are big fans of this Amazon, with one shopper calling it the “absolute perfect everyday bag.” In a review, they wrote saying, “I can’t even begin to explain how perfect it is . . . the design is gorgeous — it looks and feels really high-quality.”

Another reviewer who said it’s “perfect for daily office use” shared that they can carry two laptops, notebooks and a planner inside with “still room for more.” That means you get all the capacity of a roomy work tote without leaving everything quite so exposed at the top.

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This rich-looking pick is available in 15.6-inch and 17-inch sizes, and comes in several colors, including black, beige, green and more.

Pair it with jeans and a pretty top à la Kidman, or style the the work bag with a blazer, blouse and trousers for the office. Either way, you’re bound to look like a celebrity embarking on their daily commute. For $26, it simply makes a strong case for giving the usual open tote a secure fall upgrade.

Get the Lovevook Soft Leather Tote Bag for $26 (sas $27) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

Looking for something else? Explore more from Lovevook here, and don’t forget to check out all of Amazon’s Daily Deals for more great finds!

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Related: Jessica Alba’s Luxe Loafer Style Is the Rich-Lady Shoe of Fall 2026

If sneakers have been dominating your fall wardrobe, Jessica Alba might convince you to give them a day off. The actress just stepped out in chunky black loafers that made even the simplest basics look expensive. With their platform sole and classic shape, they have the rich-lady energy we want from fall shoes. On September […]

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Niall Horan Plays Voice of Liam Payne During Concert Tribute

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Liam Payne and Niall Horan friendship timeline

Niall Horan continues to honor his former One Direction bandmate Liam Payne.

During the Tuesday, September 22, opening night of his Dinner Party Live on Tour, Horan, 33, played recorded audio of the late Payne being interviewed. “We thought something might happen but never anything like this,” the audio began right after Horan wrapped his tribute song “End of an Era” in Birmingham, England, per X fan footage.

The audio continued, “I always try to remind myself of where I’ve come from and where I’ve managed to get to in my life. It’s amazing, really.”

Payne died in October 2024 after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He was 31 years old.

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As the recording played, darkened stage lighting captured Horan looking out above the audience in a moment of reflection. The musician, who released his fourth solo studio album, Dinner Party, in June, held his hands on his hips as he stood solemnly before the stage lights went out altogether.

One day after news of Payne’s death made headlines, Horan and his fellow One Direction bandmates issued a group statement. “We’re completely devastated by the news of Liam’s passing. In time, and when everyone is able to, there will be more to say,” the October 17, 2024, statement from Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Zayn Malik and Horan read.

The band, which formed in 2010 after meeting on Britain’s The X Factor before splitting in 2016, continued: “For now, we will take some time to grieve and process the loss of our brother, who we loved dearly. The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever. For now, our thoughts are with his family, his friends, and the fans who loved him alongside us. We will miss him terribly. We love you Liam.”

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Liam Payne and Niall Horan friendship timeline


Related: Inside Liam Payne’s Friendship With One Direction Bandmate Niall Horan

Getty Images (2) Liam Payne and Niall Horan crossed paths just before the “Strip That Down” singer’s death on October 16, 2024 — proving that their friendship was strong even after One Direction split. The singers made their One Direction debut alongside Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson and Zayn Malik when the band was formed on […]

The following day, Horan issued his own public statement that revealed he had reunited with Payne just two weeks prior to his death. “I’m absolutely devastated about the passing of my amazing friend, Liam,” Horan’s Instagram tribute read. “It just doesn’t feel real. Liam had an energy for life and a passion for work that was infectious. He was the brightest in every room and always made everyone feel happy and secure. All the laughs we had over the years, sometimes about the simplest of things, keep coming in mind through the sadness. We got to live out our wildest dreams together and I will cherish every moment we had forever. The bond and friendship we had doesn’t happen often in a lifetime.”

It continued, noting that Payne had attended Horan’s Argentina concert on October 2, 2024. “I feel so fortunate that I got to see him recently,” Horan shared. “I sadly didn’t know that after saying goodbye and hugging him that evening, I would be saying goodbye forever. It’s heartbreaking.”

One Direction Members Attend Liam Payne Funeral


Related: One Direction Members Attend Liam Payne’s Funeral

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Liam Payne‘s One Direction bandmates members reunited at the singer’s funeral on Wednesday, November 20. Photos from the somber event showed Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Niall Horan and Louis Tomlinson all arriving at the private funeral being held in Amersham, England. One image showed Malik, 31, and Tomlinson, 32, walking together. This is the first […]

Horan’s third single from Dinner Party, “End of an Era,” was released to honor Payne, with lyrics including, “We had it, pure magic / Remembering what it was like / Time passes so fast that / I couldn’t tell you goodbye.”

He stated via Instagram on May 19: “Julian Bunetta, John Ryan and I started the original version of this song years and years ago. We rewrote it about four times without ever feeling it was quite right. As we were working on this album, we revisited it. Some songs take a minute to get to what you’re actually trying to say. This one was one of those. I hope it means as much to you as it does to me.”

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Cindy Crawford’s Son Mourned By Ex In Emotional Tribute

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Presley Gerber and his stunning model girlfriend Charlotte D'Alessio were seen arriving to dinner at 'Craigs' Restaurant in West Hollywood, CA

Presley Gerber’s former girlfriend, Charlotte D’Alessio, is remembering the late model and the relationship they shared following his death at age 27. D’Alessio posted intimate photographs and a video from their time together, describing their connection as a “pure love” while expressing anger that Gerber did not have more time. The tribute came as authorities continued investigating Gerber’s death as a suspected overdose. However, his official cause and manner of death remain undetermined pending additional testing.

Charlotte D’Alessio Says Presley Gerber ‘Deserved More Time’

Presley Gerber and his stunning model girlfriend Charlotte D'Alessio were seen arriving to dinner at 'Craigs' Restaurant in West Hollywood, CA
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D’Alessio, a 28-year-old Canadian model who reportedly dated Gerber for approximately two years beginning in 2018, shared several personal memories on social media.

One photograph showed the former couple embracing on a dock, with D’Alessio wearing a bikini as she stood beside Gerber. “Shared a pure love with you & for that I thank & honor your life. You deserved more time. You deserved more life. Very angry ab this,” she wrote over the photograph.

Another black-and-white picture showed the two hugging. “Love you, Pres. always. Up there, down here. Don’t ever doubt that. We all love you so much. I hope you can feel it,” D’Alessio wrote.

Her tribute also included what appeared to be a photograph taken at a costume party, where she and Gerber posed with prop guns. In another image, Gerber was pictured relaxing on a bed with a rolled-up cigarette in his mouth as he petted a small white dog.

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D’Alessio concluded her tribute with a video showing him walking toward the ocean while the dog followed closely behind. “I will always remember you this way,” she wrote over the clip.

The Former Couple Reportedly Met Through Kaia Gerber

Presley Gerber spotted party with group of female friends at Catch.
LIROPE / MEGA

D’Alessio and Gerber reportedly met through his younger sister, model and actress Kaia Gerber, in December 2017. Their relationship became public the following year, and the two were frequently photographed together before eventually separating.

Gerber was subsequently linked to model and reality television personality Lexi Wood in 2022. He had also been romantically connected to model Cayley King in 2017. Although D’Alessio and Gerber had been apart for several years, her tribute suggested that she continued to hold considerable affection for him.

Gerber was the eldest child and only son of supermodel Cindy Crawford and businessman Rande Gerber.

Authorities Are Investigating A Suspected Overdose

Charlotte D’Alessio and Presley Gerber walking
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Emergency personnel were called to a rehabilitation facility in Santa Monica, California, at approximately 9:35 a.m. on Sunday, September 20. “On September 20, 2026, at approximately 9.35 am, Santa Monica Police Department officers responded to a report of a possible overdose in the 1000 block of Berkeley Street. Upon arrival, officers located an adult male who was deceased,” a Santa Monica Police Department spokesperson told the Daily Mail.

The spokesperson said detectives were continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding Gerber’s death. “SMPD detectives are investigating the death as a suspected overdose,” they said. “At this time, there is no indication of foul play. The investigation remains ongoing.”

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The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner said responding paramedics pronounced Gerber dead at 9:45 a.m. An autopsy has since been completed, but the cause and manner of death have been deferred while investigators await additional tests. The medical examiner said that process could take several months.

A representative for Crawford, Rande and Kaia asked that the family be given privacy during what was described as a “very difficult and painful time.”

Presley Gerber Had Reportedly Entered Rehab Hours Earlier

Charlotte D’Alessio and Presley Gerber
Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency / MEGA

TMZ reported that Gerber had checked into the rehabilitation facility on Saturday night, hours before his death. According to the outlet, the model was staying with roommates in a separate residence located on the facility’s grounds.

Dispatch recordings reportedly described the emergency as involving both a possible overdose and cardiac arrest. However, cardiac arrest refers to the heart stopping and does not independently establish what caused the medical emergency.

His Family Publicly Supported His Previous Treatment

Presley Walker Gerber at the Los Angeles World Premiere Of CJ 4DPLEX's 'Infinite Icon: A Visual Memoir'
Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency / MEGA

Earlier in 2026, Gerber revealed that he had undergone what he called a “Pre-ibogaine flood dose” at a treatment center in Mexico. Ibogaine is a psychoactive compound derived from the iboga plant. Some treatment facilities outside the United States promote it for substance withdrawal and addiction, although it is not approved for medical use in the United States.

The Drug Enforcement Administration classifies ibogaine as a Schedule I controlled substance, meaning it has no currently accepted medical use under federal law and is considered to have a high potential for abuse.

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After Gerber discussed the experience, his family publicly expressed its support. “You are a warrior! Walked thru the fire to find yourself! So proud!” Crawford wrote.

Kaia added, “That’s my brother I am so damn proud.”

Rande also praised his son’s decision to seek treatment. “I’m so proud of you and your courage. Facing what’s hard takes real strength, and watching you find your way back to yourself is everything. I love you so much,” he wrote.

The Model Had Spoken Openly About His Mental Health

Presley Gerber aLos Angeles World Premiere Of 'Infinite Icon': Red Carpet
ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

Gerber had also used his social media platform to discuss his experiences with panic attacks, night terrors, and mental health treatment. In November 2025, he announced that he was stepping away from social media to “take care of my own mental health for a bit.”

Gerber later began sharing “Mental Health Mondays” videos, which gave followers a candid look at what he had been experiencing. “I feel like honesty is the best policy,” he said in one video.

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He explained that his medication use had been “fluctuating up and down depending on what’s been going on in my life.” “Unfortunately, I’ve had a lot of loss in many different forms recently, so that is not an excuse, but it’s the reason why I am where I’m at now,” Gerber shared.

The model did not publicly explain the losses he referenced, but he said his panic attacks could become “really, really bad.”

Gerber also spoke about wanting his experiences to help other people facing depression and related struggles. His death remains under investigation, with the medical examiner’s final findings expected after the additional testing is completed.

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Cindy Crawford Shared Hopeful Family Plan Days Before Son Died

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Cindy Crawford was looking toward the next chapter of her family’s life just 10 days before the devastating death of her only son, Presley Gerber. In an interview published on September 10, the supermodel reflected on adjusting to an empty nest after Presley and his younger sister, Kaia Gerber, came of age. Crawford discussed learning when to step back as a parent, redefining her marriage to Rande Gerber, and her hope of eventually becoming a grandmother. Presley died on September 20 at age 27.

Cindy Crawford Was Learning To Step Back As A Mother

Cindy Crawford wearing a Missoni dress arrives at the 6th Annual InStyle Awards 2021
Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency / MEGA

Crawford spoke candidly about the complicated transition that occurs when children become adults and begin making decisions independently. “When they become adults, all of a sudden you’re like, okay, I’ve got to back off here. It might not be the way I would do it, but you know,” she told PORTER.

Both children had followed her into the modeling industry at young ages, but they had since developed lives and careers outside their parents’ home. For Crawford, allowing them that independence meant resisting the instinct to intervene whenever they made choices differently than she might have.

The Supermodel Was Redefining Her Marriage

Cindy Crawford
ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

Presley and Kaia leaving home also forced Crawford and Rande to think about what they wanted their marriage to look like without the daily responsibility of raising children. The couple married in 1998 and had been together for nearly three decades when Crawford gave the interview.

“When you get married, you talk about what kind of family you want or where we’re going to live. But no one ever talks about what this phase looks like, empty nesting, because it’s so far away you can’t even imagine it,” she explained. “But it’s an opportunity for us to redefine our relationship.”

Crawford admitted that she and Rande had not yet figured out what they wanted from that new stage. “What do we want to do? Do we want to travel, do we not want to travel?” she said. “We haven’t answered those questions yet, but we’re asking the questions, and it’s fun trying to figure that out together.”

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The model appeared to view the transition with optimism. Rather than treating their empty nest solely as a loss, she saw it as an opportunity for the couple to rediscover their relationship. Ten days later, Crawford and Rande were confronted with an unimaginable family tragedy.

Cindy Crawford Hoped To Become A Grandmother

Cindy Crawford at 2026 Annual WWD Style Awards - Arrivals
ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

Crawford also looked further into the future and discussed the family milestone she hoped would come next. “One thing I really am looking forward to is being a grandmother,” she told PORTER. “I’m at the age where a lot of my friends are starting to have grandkids, and even though I don’t think either one of my kids is close, I do hope I get to experience that, because it looks really fun.”

Crawford did not suggest that Presley or Kaia had immediate plans to have children. Her comments instead reflected a mother imagining what the next stage of her family might eventually bring. That hope has taken on a painful new meaning following the loss of her son.

Presley was Crawford and Rande’s eldest child. He was born in July 1999, while Kaia arrived two years later in September 2001.

Presley Gerber Died At A Rehabilitation Facility

Presley Walker Gerber at the Los Angeles World Premiere Of CJ 4DPLEX's 'Infinite Icon: A Visual Memoir'
Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency / MEGA

Presley died on the morning of September 20 at a rehabilitation facility in Santa Monica, California. According to PEOPLE Magazine, emergency responders were dispatched at approximately 9:35 a.m. following reports of cardiac arrest and a possible overdose.

The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner said responding paramedics pronounced Presley dead at 9:45 a.m. Santa Monica Police confirmed that detectives are investigating the death as a suspected overdose. Authorities said there were no indications of foul play. However, an overdose has not been established as Presley’s official cause of death.

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An autopsy was performed on September 21, but the cause and manner of death were deferred while the medical examiner conducts additional testing and studies. Officials warned that a final determination could take several months.

The family’s representative confirmed Presley’s death and said, “The family is asking for privacy during this very difficult and painful time.”

Presley Had Been Open About His Personal Struggles

Presley Gerber
Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency / MEGA

Presley had publicly discussed his experiences with depression, substance use, panic attacks, and treatment before his death. During a 2023 appearance on the “Studio 22” podcast, he explained that he hoped his willingness to speak openly could help someone experiencing similar difficulties.

“Having struggled with mental health, depression, and some other things that come along with that, I think that whether I help one person or a hundred people get out of that place that I was in at one point in my life, that’s all I need to do,” Presley said.

He later started a social media series called “Mental Health Mondays,” which was designed to encourage conversations about experiences that people frequently conceal.

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Presley also discussed undergoing treatment and attempting to make changes in his life. In March, he documented receiving ibogaine, a psychoactive substance that is not approved for medical use in the United States, during a treatment experience in Mexico.

Crawford publicly supported her son at the time, calling him a “warrior” and expressing pride in the work he was doing.

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Mark Wahlberg’s Pricey ‘Revenge’ On Harvey Weinstein

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Mark Wahlberg at Los Angeles premiere of 'Entourage'

Mark Wahlberg allegedly found an expensive way to get revenge on Harvey Weinstein after becoming upset over how the disgraced producer handled one of his early dramatic films. According to Hollywood agent Ari Emanuel, Wahlberg ordered several bottles of rare Petrus wine during the Cannes Film Festival and charged them to Weinstein’s account after his performance in “The Yards” was reportedly diminished in the editing room.

Mark Wahlberg Had ‘High Hopes’ For ‘The Yards’

Mark Wahlberg at Los Angeles premiere of 'Entourage'
Lumeimages / MEGA

According to Page Six, Emanuel shared the story in his new memoir, “Roll the Calls,” which was released on September 17. Wahlberg has not publicly confirmed the account, while Weinstein’s representative said the former producer does not remember the alleged incident.

He recalled securing Wahlberg a role in the 2000 crime drama “The Yards” while the “Boogie Nights” star was still trying to establish himself as a serious actor. The James Gray-directed movie also featured Joaquin Phoenix, Charlize Theron, and the late James Caan. According to Emanuel, everyone involved had “high hopes” for the project, “especially Wahlberg, who’s still looking to break through.”

However, the agent claimed Weinstein began interfering with the movie during post-production. The producer was “a d-ck,” Emanuel wrote. “You never know what kind of sh-t this guy might pull. And sure enough, he starts showing up in the editing room, butting in where he doesn’t belong…This producer, of course, is Harvey.”

“The Yards” was eventually selected to compete at the Cannes Film Festival. However, its reception was not what Wahlberg and his team had hoped for. Emanuel claimed the film was criticized after its festival screening and that Wahlberg was devastated to discover that much of his “gutsy performance” had been removed.

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The Actor Allegedly Ordered Bottles Of Rare Wine

Mark Wahlberg at the 2025 Fanatics Fest- Day 1
RCF / MEGA

Toward the end of the festival, Wahlberg reportedly had dinner with Emanuel in his hotel suite and ordered red wine. It was not an ordinary bottle. “Not just any red, one of the most expensive in the world,” Emanuel wrote. “Petrus. I don’t know anything about wine, and I know this is the sh-t.”

The agent emphasized how expensive the selection allegedly was. “The average age of a Petrus vine is older than my grandfather. Each bottle goes for somewhere in the neighborhood of $10,000.”

Wahlberg reportedly ordered multiple bottles and charged them to Weinstein’s account. “Revenge,” the actor allegedly said as he raised his glass. It remains unclear exactly how many bottles were ordered or what the final charge amounted to.

Harvey Weinstein Was Reportedly Furious Over The Bill

Harvey Weinstein arrives at Manhattan Criminal Court
Adam Gray SWNS / MEGA

Emanuel claimed the expensive order did not go unnoticed. During a large party on the final night of the Cannes Film Festival, Weinstein allegedly approached the agent in a rage over the wine bill. “Your client has crossed the line, Ari!” Emanuel recalled Weinstein shouting. “Petrus? PETRUS? That sh-t cost a f-cking fortune!”

Emanuel wrote that he attempted to remain composed despite Weinstein’s reputation for having a volatile temper. The agent claimed Weinstein then poked him in the chest with a finger that “looks like a baby carrot dipped in motor oil.” “I tell Harvey to step off,” Emanuel recalled. “And I promise that if he ever lays one of his filthy little digits on me again, I’m going to snap them off one by one.”

The confrontation allegedly ended without becoming physical.

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Weinstein’s Representative Questioned The Story

Harvey Weinstein Arrives to Criminal Court Day 2 of Jury Deliberations
RCF / MEGA

Weinstein’s spokesperson responded to Emanuel’s account by saying that the former producer could not independently confirm a dispute over the wine.

“Harvey remembers having disagreements over films and expenses for most projects, but whether Mark Wahlberg ordered expensive wine at Cannes and put it on Harvey’s bill more than 25 years ago isn’t something he recalls or can independently reconstruct,” the representative told Page Six.

However, Weinstein’s camp offered a positive assessment of Wahlberg’s work in the movie. “‘The Yards’ is one of Harvey’s favorite movies and Mark Wahlberg did an amazing performance, and the film was accepted at Cannes,” the spokesperson added.

Ari Emanuel’s Memoir Revisits His Hollywood Career

Harvey Weinstein arrives at Manhattan Criminal Court
Adam Gray SWNS / MEGA

“Roll the Calls” includes stories from Emanuel’s decades working as one of Hollywood’s most powerful talent agents. The 65-year-old businessman is the chief executive of Endeavor and has represented or worked alongside some of the entertainment industry’s biggest names.

At the time, Weinstein was one of the film industry’s most influential figures through Miramax, the company he co-founded with his brother, Bob Weinstein. In addition to Wahlberg and Weinstein, the memoir reportedly contains behind-the-scenes stories involving Elon Musk, Larry David and Donald Trump.

Harvey Weinstein Remains In Custody

Harvey Weinstein Exits Criminal Court 3rd Day of Jury Deliberations
RCF / MEGA

Weinstein’s Hollywood career collapsed after numerous women publicly accused him of sexual misconduct beginning in 2017. His current legal status involves separate criminal cases in New York and California.

Weinstein was convicted in New York in 2020, but the state’s highest court overturned that conviction in 2024 after finding that the trial judge improperly allowed testimony concerning allegations that were not part of the charges being tried.

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A 2025 retrial resulted in Weinstein being convicted of a first-degree criminal sexual act involving former production assistant Miriam Haley. The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office confirmed that verdict in June 2025. The same jury acquitted him of a separate charge and was unable to reach a verdict on a rape allegation involving Jessica Mann.

Prosecutors tried the Mann charge again in 2026, but that proceeding also ended in a mistrial. The charge was later dismissed after Mann said she could not endure testifying for a fourth time.

Weinstein also stands convicted of rape and sexual assault in California. An appeals court upheld that conviction in June 2026 but ordered that he be resentenced because the original judge had considered the now-overturned New York convictions when determining his punishment.

He has denied engaging in nonconsensual sexual activity and continues to challenge his convictions.

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Jeff Probst Reveals Major ‘Survivor’ Prize Twist

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Jeff Probst on the red carpet

For more than two decades, “Survivor” has tested the castaways’ ability to outlast the competition. Since its debut in 2000, the reality show has evolved with new twists and challenges, but the million-dollar cash prize has stayed the same for most of the series. Ahead of the Season 51 premiere, host Jeff Probst unveiled a surprising prize shake-up that could affect future seasons of the long-running show.

Jeff Probst Shares Major Prize Twist For ‘Survivor 51’

Jeff Probst on the red carpet
OConnor / AFF-USA.com / MEGA

“Survivor 51” is scheduled to premiere on September 23, and host and executive producer Jeff Probst revealed some interesting information about the long-standing competition series.

The new season brings together 21 new castaways competing for the title of the Sole Survivor and the $1 million prize. It follows the milestone 50th season, which featured a cast made up entirely of returning players.

Ahead of the new season, Probst teased what’s in store for the New Era of “Survivor” and revealed a twist that “blew [the players] minds in the best way.”

In a recent interview, Probst said they had been playing with old ideas and adding new spins to deliver something fresh for the fans and contestants. One of these was the coin flip introduced in Season 50, which was conceptualised by YouTube sensation Mr. Beast.

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The ‘Survivor’ Coin Flip Returns With A Game-Changing Element

In Season 50, celebrity fans, including Billy Eilish, Jimmy Fallon, Zac Brown, and Mr. Beast added special twists to the game.

Mr. Beast’s involved doubling the prize money, but it came with a risk. One player had to flip a coin to decide whether they would be eliminated or double the prize.

The million-dollar coin flip is back, but an added element could affect future seasons of “Survivor.”

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“So in Survivor 51, at some point, a player’s going to flip a coin for a million dollars. If they land it, the prize pool will be $2 million for 51. If they don’t land it, that million dollars will go into ‘Survivor 52’ and somebody will flip a $2 million coin making the prize money $3 million,” Probst told The Hollywood Reporter.

Simply put, the prize money would continue increasing by $1 million each season until a player successfully wins the coin flip.

The High-Stakes ‘Survivor 50’ Coin Flip Paid Out

The Season 50 coin flip happened when 10 players remained in the game. After the mechanics were revealed, Rick Devens, who felt he was at the bottom of the tribe and would be voted off, immediately volunteered to toss the coin.

He had a 50/50 shot at an extra $1 million, but losing meant elimination. Devens called heads and the risk paid off. He secured immunity and doubled the prize, leaving the other castaways in disbelief and awe.

The ‘Survivor’ Prize Money Has Only Been Doubled Twice

“Survivor” has awarded a $1 million cash prize to the winner since Season 1, with the runner-up and third place receiving $100,000 and $85,000, respectively. Additionally, all castaways get paid, with the amount depending on how long they stayed in the game and how many players were in the season, as noted by PEOPLE.

In “Survivor” history, the cash prize has increased only twice. The first came in 2020, when Season 40 marked the show’s 20th anniversary and offered a $2 million prize that Tony Vlachos took home.

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The second came in Season 50, when Devens won the coin flip, though he was later eliminated, and Aubry Bracco ultimately went home with the increased winnings.

Jeff Probst Explains The Open Era Of ‘Survivor’

The “Survivor 51” trailer introduces the Open Era format, with Probst telling the castaways that past advantages and twists will be “in play.”

As the host explained, past eras of the show showed patterns that let players develop strategies. “With the Open Era, we’re deliberately breaking those patterns. We’re building each season on its own, using ingredients from all fifty seasons, with no connection to the season that preceded it or the one that will follow it,” he told Entertainment Weekly.

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The new game structure keeps both fans and castaways on their toes, bringing back familiar elements from past seasons while keeping everyone guessing about if or when they might appear.

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