A surprising team-up between master cinema craftsman James Cameron and exploitation auteur Robert Rodriguez, 2019’s Alita: Battle Angel is perhaps Cameron’s most under-seen project (aside from his debut, Piranha II: The Spawning). It also happens to be a supremely underrated slice of cyberpunk/fantasy cinema nirvana. The film, based on a 1990s manga series by Yukito Kishiro, was a passion project of Cameron‘s as far back as summer 2000, according to contemporaneous reporting. And while Cameron co-wrote and produced the film, when it came to directing, he was buried up to his neck with his monumental Avatar series, so it fell on Rodriguez to finally bring the master’s vision to the screen.

An electric molding of Cameron’s tech/cybernetic obsessions and Rodriguez’s frenetic genre stylization, the film proved the highest grossing of Rodriguez’s career, earning over $400 million worldwide, despite the fact that it’s been largely forgotten seven short years later. Even though it was released in 2019, Alita: Battle Angel is a throwback to a time of unashamedly goofy, earnest, and kinetic genre cinema — and it’s a blissful corrective to much of the 2020s’ superhero and nostalgia-bait slop.

James Cameron’s Heart Beats Through the Digital Artificiality of ‘Alita: Battle Angel’

Image via 20th Century Studios

Alita tells the story of a discarded cyborg with a human brain who, in the year 2563, rediscovers her humanity and engages in elaborate swordfights against mechanized assassins. Material this simple and arguably dated required a human heart and superhuman craftsmanship to make it sing — and Cameron and his team brought exactly that. From the seamless (although occasionally unsettling and uncanny valley-straddling) Avatar-borne CGI that brings Alita to life, to the intense dedication to world-building (Cameron was so focused on this that he insisted the future city of Zalem be set on the equator, lest its fictional space elevator not work correctly), the entire production smacks of Cameron’s trademark care and quality control.

While it’s unclear how much of a hand Cameron had in the day-to-day production, the film’s action has a smoothness and lucidity that’s unusual for Rodriguez, and makes the fast-moving, ludicrous battles easy to follow and genuinely exciting. Veteran cinematographer Bill Pope (a longtime Sam Raimi collaborator and DOP on The Matrix) and Garrett Warren, the action/stunt coordinator Cameron used on Avatar and its sequels, help keep the proceedings visually engaging and sprightly, even when CGI “Motorball” gladiators and cybernetic tentacles are whipping across the screen.

Why We Need More Genre Films Like ‘Alita: Battle Angel’ Today

In an age of quippy, postmodern (derogatory), sludgy CGI debasements and failed franchise-starters, the blockbuster world needs more of the Cameron spirit. While the dialogue and characterizations in Alita: Battle Angel don’t exactly sing, the sturdy storytelling and overwhelming earnestness sell whatever the breathtaking effects can’t. Too often today, audiences are given excellence in neither department and expected to simply appreciate the $100 million or so on the screen.

While the runaway success of Cameron’s two latest Avatar sequels and the growing streaming popularity of lively genre fare like Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves is already an encouraging development, Cameron and Rodriguez have also promised more Alita to come. We’ve “sworn a blood oath to do at least one more Alita movie,” Cameron said in a 2025 Empire interview, adding that the sequel was in active development. “In fact, we’re thinking of an architecture that bridges to a third film, but we’ll be satisfied if we can make one more.”

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Release Date

February 14, 2019

Runtime

122 minutes

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Director

Robert Rodriguez

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Writers

James Cameron, Laeta Kalogridis

Producers

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James Cameron, Jon Landau, Robert Rodriguez

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Live-action adaptations are some of the most eagerly anticipated projects of die-hard fans of the respective source materials. However, at the same time, such an endeavor is fraught with danger, as the same fans can quickly turn should they perceive that the source material isn’t being faithfully adapted. It does help when the lead role of such a venture goes to an actor with a deep love and reverence for the original stories, and this is what Netflix had secured when it first cast Henry Cavill to play Geralt of Rivia in its fantasy series, The Witcher.

The Netflix show was adapted from Andrzej Sapkowski‘s original novels and Cavill has repeatedly, over the years, spoken of his deeply held appreciation of Sapkowski’s work. Cavill’s portrayal of Geralt moved to capture the very essence of the story’s lead character, with Geralt’s dry, cynical but morally strict code, coming to the fore. The Man of Steel star would play the role for three seasons before departing ahead of the fourth season. While neither Cavill nor Netflix have ever explicitly confirmed the reason for his departure, one leading theory among fans of the show and universe revolves around perceived creative differences between the acclaimed actor and the show’s writers. Cavill was replaced by Liam Hemsworth, who took up the role ahead of Season 4.

However, for those who might still be stewing over some of the surprising moments in Season 4, there is hope for some canonically accurate content to soothe your grievances. As a staunch defender of Sapkowski’s work, Cavill would undoubtedly offer up his stamp of approval to Dark Horse Comics‘ upcoming Andrzej Sapkowski’s The Witcher: The Last Wish – The Complete Collection HC ,which is an upcoming new release proven to be faithful to the original works. As we celebrate the 40th anniversary of Sapkowski’s renowned short story Wiedźmin (The Witcher), Dark Horse Comics has announced The Witcher: The Last Wish – The Complete Collection HC, arriving on December 15, 2026. Coming in at a hefty 384 pages with 8″ x 12 3/16″ dimensions and available for $124.99 on release, the omnibus collects the complete graphic novel adaptation of Sapkowski’s acclaimed short story collection.

How Has Netflix’s ‘The Witcher’ Fared With Its Audience?

When Netflix announced its adaptation of Sapkowski’s work, it was met with much excitement, with the first season debuting with a solid 68% from critics and an impressive 88% audience score. By Season 2, its appreciation soared to 95% among critics but slipped to 55% from audiences. When Season 3 rolled in, it had dipped again — 79% critics, 22% audience, showing a steady audience drop-off as the show continued to stray further from the source material. The recasting of Geralt drew attention, some of it negative, and by the time Season 4 premiered, the strain was evident. It limped to a 59% critic score and a brutal 19% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes at the time. Sadly, it highlighted just how much the adaptation had lost the plot, hence why releases like The Witcher: The Last Wish – The Complete Collection HC would be incredibly welcome.

Contained within are the six graphic novel adaptations of Sapkowski’s short stories: The Witcher, A Grain of Truth, The Lesser Evil, A Question of Price, The Edge of the World, and The Last Wish. As detailed by ScreenRant, fans must note that this collection would offer more than simply collecting the previous installments. For those seeking a canonically accurate collection, different from Netflix’s offering, especially given the most recent season, this is certainly the way to go.

The Witcher: The Last Wish – The Complete Collection HC from Dark Horse Comics will be available to read on December 15, 2026.

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Release Date

December 20, 2019

Network

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Netflix

Directors

Stephen Surjik, Charlotte Brändström, Edward Bazalgette, Loni Peristere, Louise Hooper, Bola Ogun, Alex Garcia Lopez, Gandja Monteiro, Sarah O’Gorman

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Writers

Haily Hall, Clare Higgins, Javier Grillo-Marxuach, Jenny Klein, Tania Lotia

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Marvel Studios has finally pulled back the curtain on why David Jonsson was chosen to become the next Black Panther, and it wasn’t just because of his acting ability.

Following Jonsson’s surprise casting as the adult T’Challa II at San Diego Comic Con, Marvel executives and filmmakers have begun sharing what ultimately convinced the studio that he was the right person to inherit one of the MCU’s most iconic roles. Their answers all point to the same conclusion: Jonsson possessed something that went far beyond talent.

Chadwick Boseman

Marvel Studios casting director Sarah Finn, who has been responsible for casting nearly every major MCU hero since the franchise began, explained that replacing the legacy left by Chadwick Boseman required a very different approach than filling a typical superhero role.

“These are obviously very big shoes to fill,” Finn said. “We needed somebody not only with the talent but with a certain presence and a certain spirit.”

Those qualities immediately stood out to director Ryan Coogler.

According to Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige, Coogler met privately with Jonsson while finishing work on Sinners. Before Marvel had even begun an official casting search, Coogler called Feige with complete confidence.

“I found him. He’s the guy,” Coogler said.

Feige recalled Coogler telling him, “He’s the guy. I felt it. I felt it in my soul. He’s a good man, and he is the next Black Panther.”

The moment was emotional for Feige, who admitted, “I got chills, and I got a little welled up.”

Together, Finn’s comments and Coogler’s conviction paint a clear picture of what Marvel was looking for. The studio wasn’t simply searching for the best actor. They wanted someone who could carry the emotional weight, leadership, and responsibility that come with portraying Black Panther after Chadwick Boseman’s unforgettable performance.

Comic-con 2026 [marvel]

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Jonsson’s recent rise certainly didn’t hurt. The British actor has earned widespread acclaim for performances in Rye Lane, HBO’s Industry, Alien: Romulus, and The Long Walk, while also winning the BAFTA Rising Star Award. His ability to balance vulnerability, confidence, and quiet intensity made him one of Hollywood’s fastest rising stars before Marvel ever came calling.

Marvel’s decision also continues the respectful path established in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. Rather than recasting Boseman’s T’Challa, Black Panther III will follow his son, T’Challa II, allowing the franchise to move forward while honoring the original hero’s legacy. Jonsson now steps into that role alongside returning stars Letitia Wright and Winston Duke, with Denzel Washington also joining the cast in an undisclosed role.

When Jonsson appeared on stage during Marvel Studios‘ Hall H presentation, he acknowledged the enormous responsibility ahead of him.

“Thank you so much. Thank you, Ryan. Thank you, Kevin. Thank you to this amazing family that I have the honor and privilege to join. I don’t want to say too much because I want to let the screen do the talking.”

Marvel Studios has spent nearly two decades building heroes, but Black Panther has always represented something bigger than the costume. Between Sarah Finn’s insistence on finding the right “presence and spirit” and Ryan Coogler’s certainty that Jonsson was “the guy,” it’s clear the studio believes it has found someone capable of carrying Wakanda into its next chapter.

Camryn Manheim has long been celebrated as one of Hollywood’s most outspoken advocates for self-acceptance, but the actress is now attracting attention for a different reason.

The Emmy winner recently debuted a noticeably slimmer figure during a New York City appearance, prompting an outpouring of praise from fans.

While her appearance has evolved over the years, Camryn Manheim has remained consistent in her message about body image and self-worth, values she has championed throughout her decades-long career.

Manheim turned heads with a striking new appearance after debuting a noticeably slimmer figure at a recent New York City event.

The Emmy Award-winning actress attended the opening night of Rosie O’Donnell’s one-woman show, “Common Knowledge,” where she posed confidently on the red carpet alongside friends including Julie Halston and Ricki Lake.

For the occasion, Manheim opted for a patterned blouse paired with jeans and statement beaded accessories, showcasing her transformed look.

Best known for her performances in “The Practice, Law & Order,” and “Scary Movie 3,” the 65-year-old has long been recognized as a vocal advocate for self-acceptance and body confidence throughout her Hollywood career.

One of her most memorable moments came in 1998 when she accepted an Emmy Award for her role as attorney Ellenor Frutt in “The Practice.”

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During her acceptance speech, she famously dedicated the honor to “all the fat girls,” a remark that resonated with many viewers.

The Actress Explains Why Self-Acceptance Has Always Been Bigger Than Body Size

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Over the years, Manheim has consistently emphasized that her message extends beyond body size. In interviews, she has spoken about the importance of self-worth and has often highlighted the need for greater representation of plus-size individuals in the entertainment industry.

Looking back on her journey, the actress said she intentionally pursued roles that showcased her character and talent rather than focusing on her body size. “I just play roles that have nothing to do with my size, but with my power and spirit. It’s who I am at the core of my being. That’s what’s happening in the second tier of my career,” she explained.

Manheim has also been outspoken about reclaiming the word “fat,” arguing that treating it as taboo only reinforces harmful attitudes toward body image. She recalled how discussions about weight often became uncomfortable whenever the term was used.

“It makes people uncomfortable. Anytime you said it, there would be a whole discussion. It was rather exhausting. ‘You’re not fat….’ Yes, I am!” she said.

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The actress explained that she wanted to remove the stigma attached to the word and encourage people to view it as a neutral descriptor rather than an insult.

“It felt like a constant battle of teaching people and making them comfortable with it,” Manheim said. “I wanted to demystify the word so it wouldn’t carry negative connotations anymore.”

Fans Praise Camryn Manheim’s Dramatic Weight-Loss Transformation After New Photos Surface

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Although Manheim spent decades championing visibility for plus-size women on screen, fans have recently noticed her dramatic weight-loss transformation.

After sharing photos from O’Donnell’s show on Instagram, followers quickly flooded the comments section with praise.

“You look amazing!” one admirer wrote, while another commented, “You look fabulous.”

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A third fan noted that the actress appeared remarkably youthful, writing that she looked just as vibrant as when they first saw her on screen in the early 2000s, adding that she looked “beautiful and full of life.”

The New York appearance was not the first time Manheim’s slimmer figure has attracted attention.

In May, she stepped out at the Women’s Guild Cedars-Sinai Spring Luncheon alongside Monica Lewinsky, wearing a tailored black pantsuit accented with white trim.

Earlier this year, she also attended the Human Rights Campaign Dinner, where she opted for a sophisticated black jumpsuit paired with a crisp white collared top.

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The Actress Reveals The Simple Habit She Credits For Lower Stress And Better Mental Health

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Away from the spotlight, Manheim has credited much of her peace of mind to one surprisingly simple habit: staying organized.

Rather than relying on elaborate wellness routines, the actress has said she prefers tackling tasks early to avoid unnecessary stress later.

From paying bills as soon as they arrive to finishing holiday shopping months in advance, she believes preparation is one of the most effective forms of self-care.

“Just get it done. You know what they want,” Manheim joked, explaining that planning ahead helps her avoid unnecessary stress.

She has said that being “organized is a huge part of self-care” and plays a major role in her overall wellbeing, helping her avoid the stress that can come from procrastination or last-minute deadlines.

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Camryn Manheim Says She Hates The ‘Sick Feeling Of Making Somebody Wait’ For Her

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One habit Manheim takes particular pride in is punctuality, explaining that she dislikes the idea of keeping others waiting.

“I’m never late because I hate that sick feeling of making somebody wait for me,” she said, per Yahoo! Life.

While acknowledging that no one is perfect, Manheim believes her commitment to staying organized has been one of the habits that has benefited her mental health the most.

“It doesn’t cost any money to be organized; that’s the beauty of it,” she explained. “Just get it done, and you will be free from those burdens.”

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Psychological thrillers derive their tension from obsession, uncertainty, and unstable minds. The best of these books make the reader question what’s real, whether the narrator can be trusted, and how far ordinary people can be pushed before they become capable of terrible things.

With all that darkness in mind, this list looks at some of the defining psychological thriller novels of the 20th century. Some are propulsive bestsellers; others are a little more reflective and literary. All explore the genre’s core ideas in powerful, intriguing ways.

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‘American Psycho’ (1991)

“This confession has meant nothing.” Before it was a fantastically unsettling movie, American Psycho was a disturbing novel. Protagonist Patrick Bateman appears to be the perfect Wall Street success story: wealthy, handsome, impeccably dressed, and obsessed with status. But beneath that polished exterior lies a mind consumed by narcissism, violence, and an almost unbearable emptiness. The book places us inside Patrick’s head, a tricky (and controversial) move that author Bret Easton Ellis ultimately has the skills to pull off.

Patrick represents all the darkest impulses of ’80s capitalism. He has a rapacious desire for power and material possessions, unmoored from any moral concerns. As a result, the book’s endless descriptions of designer suits, restaurant reservations, and pop music reviews gradually become just as unsettling as the bursts of sudden violence. They reveal someone who takes the culture’s worst aspects to their extreme conclusion.

9

‘The Collector’ (1963)

“I collect butterflies.” The main character of The Collector is Frederick Clegg, a lonely butterfly collector whose sudden financial windfall allows him to kidnap Miranda Grey, an art student with whom he has become obsessively infatuated. Believing that love can somehow be manufactured through captivity, Frederick imprisons Miranda in the cellar of his isolated home. From here, the book alternates between Frederick and Miranda’s perspectives, and their motivations and feelings wind up being more complex than you might expect.

In other words, this is an unusually sophisticated psychological thriller, one that avoids the genre’s clichéd motives and plot twists. The most effective part of the book is the character of Frederick himself. He’s no cartoonish monster. Instead, he’s a seemingly mundane, overly rational man totally devoid of empathy. Nevertheless, he’s a truly loathsome figure, a man who probably wanted to do evil all his life but just didn’t have the power to act on it… until now.

8

‘Libra’ (1988)

“History is the sum total of the things they aren’t telling us.” Libra was Don DeLillo‘s follow-up to White Noise, the novel that put him on the map. In it, he presents a fictionalized account of the Kennedy assassination, delving deep into the psychology of Lee Harvey Oswald. The book portrays him as a lonely, directionless man desperate to attach himself to something meaningful. His search for purpose collides with intelligence agencies, anti-Castro activists, and shadowy operatives whose overlapping agendas spiral beyond anyone’s control.

The result is less a historical novel than an exploration of paranoia and the stories people invent to make sense of chaos. Once again, this is a case where the author took on ambitious, challenging subject matter and turned it into something compelling. Libra received rave reviews on release, with many declaring the book to be a masterpiece.

7

‘Rebecca’ (1938)

Image via Hachette

“Last night I dreamt I went to Manderley again.” The basis for Hitchcock‘s classic film. After marrying the wealthy widower Maxim de Winter, an unnamed young woman moves into the grand estate of Manderley, only to discover that the memory of Maxim’s late wife, Rebecca, continues to dominate every room, every servant, and every conversation. The new Mrs. de Winter constantly compares herself to this ghost, whose beauty, confidence, and apparent perfection have been immortalized by those around her.

Needless to say, a few conniving figures seek to weaponize that insecurity. Chief among them is the housekeeper Mrs. Danvers, whose devotion to Rebecca borders on religious obsession. She tries to manipulate the protagonist, using cruelly timed words like drops of poison. Every interaction becomes psychologically exhausting. All this adds up to a fantastic Gothic romance/thriller.

6

‘The Trial’ (1925)

Image via Knopf

“Someone must have been telling lies about Josef K.” This is one of Kafka‘s masterworks. Our protagonist Josef K. is arrested one morning, yet no one will explain what he has done wrong. He soon becomes trapped inside an incomprehensible legal system whose rules seem to shift with every encounter. It’s the ultimate vision of nightmarish bureaucracy. Unlike traditional thrillers, the danger in The Trial is almost entirely psychological.

Here, Kafka creates an atmosphere where logic gradually loses all meaning, and every attempt to understand the system only deepens Josef K.’s confusion. Josef’s growing frustration and helplessness are at times tough to witness. In the end, although more literary and existential than most thrillers, The Trial touches on many ideas that modern psychological thrillers are built on: alienation, uncertainty, institutional power, and the fear of being judged by shadowy forces.

5

‘A Clockwork Orange’ (1962)

Image via Penguin Books

“What’s it going to be then, eh?” Although Kubrick‘s movie adaptation has lodged itself deeper in the public consciousness, Anthony Burgess‘ A Clockwork Orange is still a potent, incendiary piece of work. It centers on the teenage delinquent Alex, whose love of classical music exists alongside an appetite for ultraviolence. After his criminal lifestyle catches up with him, Alex becomes the subject of an experimental rehabilitation program designed to eliminate his capacity for violence altogether.

The book hits us with plenty of brutal scenes, but it also gets very philosophical. In particular, it has a lot to say about free will. Alex is undeniably monstrous, yet the state’s attempt to strip away his ability to choose raises troubling questions about personal autonomy. Is compelled goodness really goodness at all? Is crime the price we pay for freedom? It’s these themes that make the novel a classic.

4

‘And Then There Were None’ (1939)

Image via HarperLuxe

“Ten strangers are invited. One by one they die.” And Then There Were None is widely regarded as Agatha Christie‘s magnum opus, and perhaps the greatest mystery novel ever written. In the book, ten strangers arrive on a secluded island after accepting mysterious invitations, only to discover that their unseen host believes each of them has escaped justice for a past crime. When the guests begin dying one by one, suspicion turns everyone into both detective and potential murderer.

Christie brilliantly transforms the isolated setting into a psychological pressure cooker. In the process, she created a blueprint that countless writers have riffed on since. With no way to escape and no one left to trust, every conversation becomes loaded with mistrust and, just below the surface, simmering violence. Then, to top it all off, the novel hits us with a juicy, legendary twist.

3

‘Misery’ (1986)

Image via Viking

“I’m your number-one fan.” After celebrated novelist Paul Sheldon is rescued from a car accident by his self-proclaimed “number-one fan,” Annie Wilkes, he initially believes his luck has changed. Instead, he discovers that Annie is dangerously unstable and has no intention of letting him leave until he rewrites the latest installment of her favorite series exactly the way she wants. Bedridden, Paul is at the mercy of Annie’s moods, which swing unpredictably between kindness, childlike enthusiasm, and explosive violence.

While the setup is relatively simple, Stephen King builds it into an edge-of-your-seat thriller. A big part of its success comes down to the character of Annie herself, who is truly one of the author’s most evil creations (and that’s saying something). Because Annie is such a monster, we root desperately for Paul to escape, making each of his failed attempts utterly heartbreaking.

2

‘The Silence of the Lambs’ (1988)

Image via St. Martin’s Press

“A census taker once tried to test me.” This is another thriller that was deeply influential, and which gave us some of the genre’s all-time finest villains. The Silence of the Lambs follows FBI trainee Clarice Starling as she seeks the help of imprisoned psychiatrist and serial killer Hannibal Lecter in order to catch another murderer known as Buffalo Bill. What follows is less a traditional investigation than an increasingly tense contest between two brilliant minds.

Every exchange between him and Clarice becomes a duel in which information is exchanged only at tremendous emotional cost. Clarice is a compelling character, yet Lecter is a work of art. He’s an intelligent, urbane, and endlessly manipulative antagonist, always ready with a well-turned phrase. He plays people against each other using little more than words alone; indeed, author Thomas Harris understands that intelligence can be more frightening than brutality.

1

‘Strangers on a Train’ (1950)

Image via Blackstone Audio, Inc.

“The idea came quite suddenly.” Although The Talented Mr. Ripley is more famous, Strangers on a Train might be Patricia Highsmith‘s greatest book, reeling us in from the very beginning. During a chance meeting aboard a train, two men strike up a conversation that leads to an unsettling proposal. Bruno suggests that each of them should murder someone the other wants gone, creating the perfect crime. Guy dismisses the conversation as idle fantasy… until Bruno decides to carry out his side of the bargain.

A lesser writer might have turned that premise into a pulpy noir, but Highsmith’s genius lies in shifting the focus away from the murders themselves and toward the psychological burden that follows. Likewise, she gives us a villain for the ages in Bruno. He’s charismatic, brilliant, and emotionally unpredictable, steadily dismantling Guy’s sense of security through psychological pressure rather than brute force. Their toxic relationship becomes the novel’s true battleground.

Kate Cassidy explained why she’s removing some of her tattoos in honor of her late boyfriend, Liam Payne.

“I knew that some of you guys would be offended at the fact that I decided to laser off these tattoos on my body,” Cassidy, 27, said via TikTok on Wednesday, July 29, while replying to a comment that read, “She don’t love him no more.” She continued, “The only reason that I am getting these tattoos off is literally just because they are too thick to my liking. They’re the very first tattoos I ever received, and I went somewhere really random.”

Cassidy went on to say that she asked for a “fine line tattoo,” which she expected to be even more dainty than her result, and got a “thick, bulky” result.

@kateecass

Replying to @Sammi Herrera🥀🖤

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She added, “Listen, the meaning behind all of my tattoos are so, so special to me. I am not lasering them off for any other means other than the fact that I’m gonna get them redone somewhere else that has experience in fine line tattoos.”

The tattoo in question is a “444” tribute for Payne, who died at age 31 in October 2024. The number signified the couple’s angel number.

Cassidy has more tattoos in honor of Payne, including an angel wing, “LP” on her wrist, and a wilted rose on her thumb, and a 4 on her wrist.

The influencer dated Payne for nearly two years before his death. They met at a restaurant in Charleston, South Carolina, where Cassidy was working in September 2022. In December of that year, they made their red carpet debut at the British Fashion Awards in London. In 2024, Cassidy shared that she was living with Payne in Florida.

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Related: Kate Cassidy Honors Late Boyfriend Liam Payne on 1st Anniversary of His Death

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Kate Cassidy paid tribute to her late boyfriend, Liam Payne, on the first anniversary of his death. “Today marks a full year without you here,” Cassidy, 26, wrote via Instagram on Thursday, October 16. “I will forever hate goodbyes. I miss you Liam.” Cassidy’s post included a throwback black-and-white snap of her and Payne snuggling […]

In October 2024, Cassidy traveled with Payne to Argentina, but returned to Florida two days before he fell off a third-floor hotel balcony and died.

Since his death, Cassidy has been candid about her grief journey. In February 2025, she told The Sun, “I feel like my life has changed so much and I think about Liam every second of every day. It still doesn’t feel fully real for me that he’s not here. Sometimes I’ll wake up and it’s a reality I have to face for the rest of my life.”

Cassidy continued, “When I left Argentina, we had such a great day. We were in such great —you know, full of love, and I never would have expected any of that to occur. If I could see into the future, I would have never left Argentina but unfortunately, I do have — we did have our own separate lives. This wasn’t the first time we traveled separately together. We would quite often here and there in the past, so I never thought this would have happened.”

Kate Cassidy is defending her decision to laser off body art dedicated to her late partner, Liam Payne, following criticism from online followers. 

The influencer addressed public backlash directly, assuring fans that she is not erasing her memories of the singer, who passed away in October 2024 at age 31. 

Ever since the singer’s sudden death, Cassidy has been open about her grief and her struggles entering back into the dating world as she tries to move on. 

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Addressing negative commentary online after a user claimed “She don’t love him no more,” the 27-year-old social media personality shared a video to set the record straight. 

“I knew that some of you guys would be offended at the fact that I decided to laser off these tattoos on my body,” Cassidy said, clarifying that her decision comes down to aesthetic quality rather than a change of heart. 

In the post shared on TikTok, she explained that because they were her initial pieces, she chose an unfamiliar studio and received “thick, bulky” ink instead of the delicate, fine-line style she originally wanted.

The specific design being removed is the number “444,” an angel number of special significance to the couple, per U.S. Weekly.

“Listen, the meaning behind all of my tattoos are so, so special to me. I am not lasering them off for any other means other than the fact that I’m gonna get them redone somewhere else that has experience in fine line tattoos,” she emphasized.

Having dated the musician for nearly two years before his passing, Cassidy holds several other tributes to him, including an angel wing, the initials “LP,” a wilted rose on her thumb, and the digit four on her wrist.

Kate Cassidy Opened Up About Her Challenges Dating After Loss

In addition to the scrutiny regarding her memorial ink, Cassidy has been equally candid about the emotional hurdles she faces while navigating the dating world following Payne’s tragic passing in 2024. 

The influencer recently took to social media to share that her most recent relationship ended because she found herself unable to stop comparing her new partner to the late singer, as reported by The Blast (https://theblast.com/808940/kate-cassidy-dumped-over-constant-liam-payne/). 

Despite meeting this partner’s family and enjoying romantic getaways, Cassidy admitted that she struggled to connect because she was constantly measuring him against the life she had envisioned with Payne.

Although she acknowledged that being “dumped” was a painful experience, she understood why the relationship reached its breaking point.

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While navigating her personal grief and public relationships, Cassidy continues to cherish the last memories she spent alongside the late singer before his untimely death in October 2024. 

The Blast reported that in late April, the social media personality shared a rare clip on Instagram captured during a joint outing before his passing.

The video featured footage of her riding a horse before showing Payne receiving guidance from an instructor and running through a grassy pasture.

Overlaying the video with a message for her audience, Cassidy urged followers to remain present and appreciate every experience as it happens. She also expressed how completely unaware she was at that moment that it would mark the final instance she would ever spend time with her partner.

Court Documents Revealed The Legal Resolution Regarding The Late Singer’s Estate

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Following the period of public mourning and private adjustment for those he left behind, the legal future of the late star’s financial legacy has reached a definitive conclusion. 

The Blast reported that court documents formally confirmed the distribution of his multi-million-pound fortune. Given that the 31-year-old musician did not leave a formal will and was unmarried at the time of his death, his entire estate has been designated for his only child, eight-year-old Bear Grey Payne.

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Bear, son of Cheryl Tweedy, is now the sole beneficiary of the assets. While earlier estimates suggested a net value exceeding £24 million, the finalized figures place the estate at approximately £21.9 million ($28.9 million) after liabilities. 

Investigation Into the Singer’s Tragic Passing Remains Ongoing

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While the financial future of Payne’s estate is now settled, the legal pursuit of accountability regarding his death remains an active and evolving process in Argentina. Nearly two years after the fatal incident at the Casa Sur Hotel, authorities continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. 

A significant update occurred when an appeals court formally exonerated Rogelio Luis “Roger” Nores, one of the three individuals previously implicated in the case, as reported by The Blast.

Nores, an Argentine businessman who had been accused of facilitating the singer’s stay and alleged substance use, was cleared of all wrongdoing by a panel of three judges.

Following this dismissal, prosecutors continue to focus on the remaining two subjects under investigation to determine the full sequence of events that led to the star’s untimely death.

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Whew! Kandi Burruss and Tamar Braxton have the internet talking after a series of comments reignited chatter about where the two really stand. While fans have been trying to piece together the situation, Kandi has now entered the conversation with a response that has Roomies raising their eyebrows.

RELATED: Back On? Fans Shocked To See Todd Tucker On Kandi Burruss’ Family Vacation, Question Their Relationship Status (VIDEO)

Did Kandi Clear The Air Or Add More Smoke?

This week, Kandi Burruss appeared to clap back at Tamar Braxton as rumors of a feud between the two continued making the rounds online. Kandi shared a clip of Carlos King interviewing Jason Lee, who alleged that Tamar once tried to use him and his platform to “attack” Kandi.

Kandi didn’t stop at reposting the interview. She added her own caption, writing, “But I’m supposed to be the mean girl,” seemingly responding to recent comments Tamar made about their interaction at the Essence Festival. During a recent interview, Tamar claimed Kandi appeared distant toward her during the event, adding another layer to the ongoing speculation surrounding their relationship.

Kandi Had Time After Tamar’s Latest Comments

After Tamar recently insisted she has “no beef with anyone,” Kandi stepped into the conversation with a claim that had social media doing a double-take. Tamar recently made it clear that she isn’t holding onto any bad blood with Kandi, explaining that acknowledging her at a recent event was nothing more than common courtesy. But Kandi appeared to see things a little differently, stepping into the conversation with a claim that quickly had fans raising their eyebrows.

Instead of letting Tamar’s comments slide, Kandi chimed in online and alleged that their off-camera interaction told a completely different story. According to Kandi, Tamar called her a “b*tch” while passing by her at a party just days before, prompting Kandi to write, “No beef?.. but she was just calling me a btch as she walked pass me at a party last Saturday. 🙄 I can’t do the fake sh*t.” While Tamar previously maintained that she’s not “beefing with anyone but the devil” and suggested the viral moment surrounding their interaction was blown out of proportion, Kandi’s remarks have only fueled more speculation that there may be more to the story. As of now, Tamar hasn’t publicly addressed Kandi’s latest claims, leaving Roomies to debate which version they believe.

Roomies Were Stirring The Pot Per Usual

Fans wasted no time flooding The Shade Room’s Instagram comment section, and the opinions were all over the place. Some folks insisted that Tamar Braxton is always at the center of the drama. But others argued Kandi has outgrown the back-and-forth and shouldn’t entertain the drama. And many questioned why this longtime feud continues to make headlines.

One Instagram user @sincerely_reeka said, “this beef is starting to get as old and tired as 50 vs Ja Rule. y’all need to hug and move on 🙄”

This Instagram user @shani_bonnie commented, “Kandi don’t know how to let nothing go lol”

And, Instagram user @st.reginald_ shared, “I love Tamar she’s funny asf and she do whatever she wants not following everyone rules”

Meanwhile, Instagram user @mrsb4lasers wrote, “I WONDER WILL KANDI REAL FRIENDS TELL HER HOW THIS SITUATION IS REALLY LOOKING 🤔”

While Instagram user @carter.monroe wrote, “I mean Tamar did not say anything bad so I’m confused as to the point Kandi is making.”

Then, Instagram user @_queenkbabyy_ commented, “TAMAR WRONG AND YALL DONT WANNA SAY IT!”

Finally, Instagram user @photosbylorealdiane added, “Oh who Cares! Everybody just need to grow up and keep it moving.”

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Bart Edmiston Jr. has reportedly sent a cease-and-desist letter to content creator Kymbra Li for her alleged “false and defamatory” statements amid the Nolan Wells investigation.

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Bart Edmiston Jr. Reportedly Sends Cease-And-Desist To Kymbra Li For Alleged “False” Statements

On the evening of Wednesday, July 29, Bart Edmiston Jr.’s lawyer, Russell Latino, returned to Facebook to share a post that mentioned content creator Kymbra Li. In his Facebook post, the lawyer wrote, “I had someone today call me and ask me to sue them for defaming Bart Edmiston, Jr. I love when little dogs think they are big dogs.”

He went on to say that a cease-and-desist was served to Li.

“Anyway, we served a cease and desist, demand for correction and evidence preservation notice on social media influencer, comedian, rapper, and Only Fans model ‘Kymbra Li’ today in anticipation of filing a defamation lawsuit against her,” he wrote. “I anticipate at least two more such notices going out by the end of the week. I just bought a new case of toner for my printer.”

The Sun Herald confirmed the update. Subsequently, the outlet published a copy of the five-page cease-and-desist notice. Furthermore, it demanded that Li cease her conduct, preserve evidence of her previous posts, and correct and apologize for her false statements.

Additionally, the notice alleged that Li doxxed Edmiston and his family, leading them to receive a “credible death threat.” Per the notice, Li allegedly claimed Edmiston murdered Nolan Wells and participated in concealing information.

The notice concluded with the expectation that Li would provide “written confirmation” within five days of receiving the letter. It notes that if Li does not comply with the demands by then, all “legal remedies” will be pursued.

Kymbra Li Acknowledges The Report

Since news of the notice has surfaced, Li has been active on social media. In one NFSW post, she called out TMZ. Additionally, in another post, she noted the free “marketing” from the report and potential lawsuit.

More On Bart Edmiston Jr. & The Nolan Wells Investigation

As The Shade Room previously reported, Bart Edmiston Jr. reportedly lawyered up on Wednesday, July 30. This appeared to be due to an image circulating of him on social media. Furthermore, claims alleged that the photo showed him posing with Katie McCormack, the girl with whom it is claimed that Nolan Wells allegedly stayed behind on Horn Island before he was found dead.

Furthermore, social media users claimed Edmiston Jr. allegedly had some friction with Wells over McCormack, and therefore participated in Wells’ death — a claim which his lawyer vehemently denied in an initial statement.

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