Jessica Alba has California-cool dressing down to a formula, and with this one hack, it’s incredibly easy to replicate. So here’s the secret: With the right bag, you can elevate any outfit. Yes, even sweats. Alba’s slouchy shoulder bag style does all the work, and we found it hiding on Amazon!

For a casual mother-daughter shopping trip in Los Angeles, Alba wore a white tank, baggy Alo sweatpants and platform sneakers. Relaxed, yes, but her bold bag made the entire getup appear expensive. This leather wonder has the same effect, and although it should cost triple digits, it’s on sale for only $49. Run!

Get the Yaluxe Slouchy Shoulder Bag for $49 (was $57) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication but are subject to change.

This Yaluxe Shoulder Bag is made from real leather, and it has polished silver hardware and a slouchy, throw-on-and-go silhouette. Like Alba’s, it comes in the deep wine shade that’s having a serious moment right now. Burgundy reads richer than black, softer than red and infinitely more chic than the beige everyone keeps reaching for.

Related: Chrissy Teigen‘s Woven Bag Is $8,900, But We Found a Mini Twin for $59

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Chrissy Teigen took the rich mom style to a different level, carrying a tote so roomy, it could have been a weekender. We love the woven bag style, but are looking for something more practical than a tote. This designer-inspired crossbody channels the same high-end energy, and it’s on sale right now for $59. Teigen […]

Better yet, this classy bag is secretly functional, with organized compartments, a spacious interior and a top zipper to keep everything secure, plus an attachable strap that transforms it into a crossbody. You’re basically getting two bags for the (on-sale!) price of one.

One five-star shopper raved that it “has enough room to hold my wallet, phone, keys and a few extras without feeling bulky.” They added that it “looks expensive, feels premium and works perfectly for daily use.” Paired with sweats, this chic bag is Cali-cool. Paired with a blazer, it’s boardroom.

Alba’s getup is proof that one luxe-looking bag can carry an entire outfit. Grab this winner in burgundy, throw it over your comfiest weekend sweats and watch the compliments roll in!

Get the Yaluxe Slouchy Shoulder Bag for $49 (was $57) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication but are subject to change.

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

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There’s some positive news on the Boston Blue front that will prove incredibly exciting for longtime fans of the Blue Bloods franchise. Series star Donnie Wahlberg recently revealed a video earlier this month, revealing that his fellow Blue Bloods co-star, Will Estes, is joining him for the hit CBS show’s second season. TV Insider later confirmed that Estes is indeed appearing in a guest star capacity on Boston Blue in a move that will certainly shake up the show’s winning formula. The Reagan family members making recurring guest appearances should work to Boston Blue’s overall benefit.

Will Estes’ Return to ‘Boston Blue’ Is Important to the Story

Boston Blue primarily focuses on two families: the Reagans through Danny (Wahlberg) and Sean Reagan (Mika Amonsen); and the Silvers through District Attorney Mae Silver (Gloria Reuben), stepdaughter and BPD Superintendent Sarah Silver (Maggie Lawson), sister and BPD Detective Lena Silva (Sonequa Martin-Green), and their little brother Jonah Silver (Marcus Scribner). Boston Blue begins as Danny arrives in Boston to visit the recently injured Sean, and he later opts to permanently move there to help mentor his son as he begins his career as a rookie BPD officer. During the first season, Danny officially retires from the NYPD and transfers to the BPD, reinforcing that his move is permanent, despite most of the Reagan clan and his girlfriend, Maria Baez (Marisa Ramirez), still residing in New York.

A couple of guest appearances from Blue Bloods veterans thus far include Bridget Moynahan, reprising her role as Erin Reagan, and even a guest visit from Len Cariou as Henry Reagan. However, Jamie Reagan has not yet appeared in the spin-off, although we did hear that Jamie and his wife Edith “Eddie” Janko welcomed a son, Joey Francis Reagan, between the end of Blue Bloods and Boston Blue Season 1. Estes’ return is fantastic news, as it reinforces the continuity between the two shows. Jamie and Danny always had a great dynamic in the flagship series, so it will be interesting for Danny and Sean to get a visit from Jamie.

Why ‘Boston Blue’ Needs More Reagan Guest Appearances

Boston Blue is still in a period where it’s searching for its identity. We have already established that Blue Bloods ended prematurely, even with plenty of material left to cover after 14 seasons. Blue Bloods star Tom Selleck even revealed during a recent conversation with Ted Danson on the Where Everybody Knows Your Name podcast that none of the main cast wanted the show to end. Appearances by more of the veteran Reagans from Blue Bloods in Boston Blue soften the blow of the flagship series’ untimely loss as Boston Blue finds its footing and forges ahead as the next chapter in the saga.

Additionally, a Jamie Reagan appearance demonstrates the saga’s cohesion with the Reagan clan and sells that Boston Blue is a spin-off and continuation of Blue Bloods. Plus, it will be nice to check in to see how Jamie Reagan is doing, how he’s progressing in the NYPD’s Field Intelligence Unit, and dealing with becoming a father. In Erin’s last appearance on Boston Blue, “L’dor Vador,” she visits Danny in Boston to assist him with a case involving a dangerous suspect and a missing child. The show wouldn’t be much of a procedural drama if Jamie were simply visiting to check in with his brother and nephew. We can surmise that there will likely be some collaboration between the NYPD and the BPD, where Jamie and Danny are again thrust together in a dangerous case. It will be just like old times when the youngest Reagan sibling returns on Boston Blue.

Will Estes Should Signal the Last Major Holdout From ‘Blue Bloods’

Image via CBS

The last big holdout from the Blue Bloods cast, who was referenced throughout the first season, is Danny’s father, NYPD Commissioner Francis “Frank” Reagan (Selleck). The one thing that the first season of Boston Blue was genuinely missing was a giant crossover episode, where all the members of the Reagan and Silver families could come together for a big family gathering and dinner. The Shabbat dinners in Boston Blue have been good, and they functionally serve a similar purpose as the Reagans’ Sunday dinners on Blue Bloods. Now, it’s time to combine the two.

Will Estes returning as Jamie Reagan should serve as a grander buildup to the return of Selleck’s Frank Reagan and a major crossover arc. It should culminate in a giant family dinner between the two families and could appropriately pave the way for the Reagans to pass the torch to the new cast and series. Additionally, it will attract fans of Blue Bloods who have not yet checked out Boston Blue, while providing a huge event storyline for viewers of both shows. It will be interesting to see what the writers have in store for Danny and Jamie when Boston Blue returns for its second season on October 9 on CBS.

When it comes to watching some of the best movies and TV shows produced in the U.K., nothing beats BritBox. The powerhouse streamer has an impressive catalog that includes some of the most noteworthy titles across genres ranging from period dramas to absurdist comedies. With mega hits like The Other Bennet Sister, it has officially arrived in the on-demand viewing space and continues to excel at delivering exceptional content to countries around the world.

BritBox has a vast selection of both old and new titles for viewers across the pond to enjoy. From quirky, classic follies like Mr. Bean to cerebral thrillers like Broadchurch, there is something for everyone. When it comes to rewatchability and binge-worthiness, these 10 TV shows are some of the best, and everyone should keep them on their watchlist.

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‘The Other Bennet Sister’ (2026)

Image via BritBox

Based on the book by Janice Hadlow, The Other Bennet Sister focuses on an interesting and often overlooked character in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. The middle sister of the vivacious Bennet family, Mary is an awkward, resolute, and truly unique heroine. Played superbly by Ella Bruccoleri, Mary tries to find her way in a world that seems suited to everyone but her.

The Other Bennet Sister is a triumph and a must-watch for any Austen or period drama fan. It has humor, romance, and candid commentaries about gender roles in society. The series was a tremendous hit for BritBox and earned an impressive 7.3 million views within its first few weeks. It has become so popular that a three-part Christmas special has been announced and is slated to release later this year. Now is the time to see what everyone is raving about and binge The Other Bennet Sister in time for the holiday episodes.

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‘Ludwig’ (2024–Present)

Image via BBC One

John Taylor (David Mitchell) is an introvert who prefers to stay inside and create puzzles as his alter ego, Ludwig. When his sister-in-law Lucy (Anna Maxwell Martin) calls him in distress because his twin brother has gone missing, he has no choice but to leave his reclusive life behind and intervene. John goes undercover, posing as his missing twin James, which includes taking over his job as a crime scene detective.

Ludwig is a brilliant and charming cozy mystery series. Mitchell is a veteran performer and stellar as always. The series received two BAFTA nominations last year, and fans only expect greatness in the future. It has become a must-watch show on BritBox and has been renewed for a third season before the second season even debuts. There is no time like the present to get in on this winning series before it explodes with even more fanfare.

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‘The Cleaner’ (2021–Present)

Image via BritBox

Better known as his magnificent persona, the Taskmaster, Greg Davies takes on a whole new challenge in The Cleaner. In this scripted comedy, Davies plays the role of Paul Wickstead, a certified cleaning technician who is called upon to take care of some pretty bloody crime scenes. At each location, Paul has an encounter with a living person connected to the event, and a fascinating discourse develops.

The Cleaner brings an inventive new viewpoint to the crime genre. Instead of focusing on the victim, the series centers around those left behind. The Cleaner uses a practical setup to launch some whimsical scenarios, and it is full of the witty, droll humor that British comedy series are celebrated for.

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‘Friday Night Dinner’ (2011–2020)

Starring Tamsin Greig, Paul Ritter, Simon Bird, Tom Rosenthal, and Mark Heap, Friday Night Dinner is a hilarious and culinary dysfunctional family sitcom. Every Friday night, Jackie (Greig) and Martin (Ritter) have their two sons over for supper. However, in the Goodman household nothing ever goes to plan, and the quiet family meal soon dissolves into utter chaos.

At 37 episodes long, Friday Night Dinner is a great binge. It has several recurring gags and established story arcs that run throughout the entire series. The finale is solid and includes a culmination of several established themes. All of the cast are phenomenal, and Heap is exemplary as the awkward, eccentric neighbor. Friday Night Dinner is a fan favorite and has a 90% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes to prove it.

5

‘Downton Abbey’ (2010–2015)

Image via Focus Features / Courtesy Everett Collection

The series that launched the renaissance of all things period-specific, Downton Abbey tells the stories of the wealthy Crawley family and the staff who call the grand estate home. Downton Abbey ticks all the marks for excellence. The writing, acting, costumes, set design, and more are all perfection. It won 15 Primetime Emmys, two BAFTAs, and continues to be beloved by devotees.

If you haven’t seen this sweeping series yet, it remains as entertaining and impactful as ever. The interpersonal drama between members of the family and between members of the aristocracy and servants is highly engaging. There are several dynamic plot twists, and it is undeniably binge-worthy, as you will find yourself highly invested from the very beginning.

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‘Mr. Bean’ (1990–1995)

Image via ITV

Rowan Atkinson is the epitome of physical comedy in Mr. Bean. As the title character, Atkinson portrays a misfit individual who always makes the unusual and unexpected choice in any given circumstance. Atkinson’s performance is akin to ancient performance arts such as clowning and commedia dell’arte, which use body language, posture, and slapstick elements to convey humor. The show also deliberately restricts dialogue so it can be enjoyed by viewers in any country.

There are multiple theories as to what makes Mr. Bean tick. Some speculate that he is an alien, or was at least altered by aliens in some way. Others think he is simply an oddball who thinks outside the box. Either way, watching him navigate everyday conundrums is vastly entertaining, and Mr. Bean is still one of the best comedy series to watch nearly four decades later.

7

‘Fawlty Towers’ (1975–1979)

Image via BBC

John Cleese is well known in the industry for his talent for absurdist comedy, as in Monty Python’s Flying Circus, Rat Race, and A Fish Called Wanda. One of his best roles to date is in the 1970s sitcom Fawlty Towers. The series focuses on the neurotic Basil Fawlty (Cleese) as he owns and operates a small hotel with his wife Sybil (Prunella Scales). Watching the high-strung and tightly wound Basil try to please customers and work with his wife and long-suffering staff makes for a riot of chuckles.

Fawlty Towers is one of the best British comedy shows of all time and never ceases to deliver on laughs and ridiculous predicaments. It is a masterclass in ramping up tension, taking an already precarious situation and adding more fire. Fans of Cleese and classic British comedies should definitely check Fawlty Towers out; it is one of the greats.

8

‘Broadchurch’ (2013–2017)

Image via ITV

Chris Chibnall’s Broadchurch is widely hailed as one of the best British detective shows. It features David Tennant and Olivia Colman as D.I. Alec Hardy and D.S. Ellie Miller, respectively. Tennant and Colman are unmistakable talent, and their onscreen chemistry in Broadchurch is a core part of the magic that drives the series forward.

Broadchurch is a perfect watch for fans of mystery and crime thrillers. Having the events set in a small town makes the show instantly relatable, and the series explores poignant themes about violence, grief, and loss. Broadchurch feels like more than a surface-level crime-of-the-week format. As Collider’s Daniela Gama says, “At its heart, Chibnall’s acclaimed series is more than a murder mystery — it’s a thoughtful exploration of trauma and the consequences of crime and violence.”

9

‘The IT Crowd’ (2006–2013)

Image via Channel 4

A British TV show that started slowly and grew to massive cult status is The IT Crowd. The quirky workplace comedy has Katherine Parkinson as Jen Barber. Jen is an enthusiastic new employee of Reynholm Industries who is sent to manage an odd duo of IT workers after she fibbed on her CV and overstated her computer knowledge. Chris O’Dowd and Richard Ayoade make up the two-person IT department, and their characters, Roy and Moss, are delightfully eccentric.

The IT Crowd has some truly hilarious plots. One of the best comedic bits is when Roy and Moss convince Jen that a small black box with a light on the top is the internet. The IT Crowd has won three BAFTAs and remains a continuously quoted and memed treasure trove of fandom. Even though technology has changed dramatically since 2006, humanity’s approach to and interaction with it has remained the same, and The IT Crowd is as funny and relevant now as it ever was.

10

‘Whites’ (2010)

Image via BBC

A series that was a decade ahead of its time, Whites is a forerunner to bleak comedies like The Bear and is the BritBox show that everyone should binge. At one season long, viewers can take in all episodes of this witty dramedy in a weekend or a single evening. The show stars Alan Davies as Roland White, an outwardly morose but inwardly emotional head chef at a luxury hotel.

Whites is a must-watch for fans of shows like The Bear. The mix of culinary culture with character drama is fantastic. The humor of Whites is spot-on and walks the thin line of not enough frivolity and too much like a seasoned tightrope walker. It is one of those hidden gem treasures that was tragically canceled too soon, but exists perfectly as it is in its one-season-wonder format.

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Whites

Release Date

2010 – 2010-00-00

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Network

BBC Two

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Directors

David Kerr

Writers

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Oliver Lansley

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  Katherine Parkinson

  Caroline

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Sydney Sweeney and her boyfriend, Scooter Braun, are soaking up the last days of summer in super-powered style.

“Camp ‘26 🦸🏼‍♀️,” Sweeney, 28, wrote via Instagram on Saturday, August 22, alongside a handful of photos.

In one snap, Sweeney embodied Diana Prince (a.k.a Wonder Woman) with a replica corset costume complete with a coordinating headband. Braun, 45, opted to dress up as Clark Kent/ Superman as the duo posed for a selfie.

Elsewhere in Sweeney’s carousel, the pair hung out in the sunshine, indulged in karaoke and went swimming in a lake.

Related: Sydney Sweeney and Scooter Braun Pack on PDA in New Vacation Photos

Sydney Sweeney and Scooter Braun looked as in love as ever in new photos from a trip to Australia. “A little aussie dump,” Sweeney, 28, captioned an Instagram post on Sunday, July 19, that included highlights from the getaway. The compilation included a glimpse of her romance with Braun, 45, who joined her in several […]

Braun shared more images of the pair’s weekend via his page, alongside the caption, “Camp of Heroes.”

Sweeney and the music manager were first romantically linked in June 2025 after meeting at Jeff Bezos’ star-studded wedding in Italy.

“It is not serious,” a source exclusively told Us in September 2025, noting that Sweeney was “dating around and in her single era without having any pressure” after calling off her engagement to ex-fiancé Jonathan Davino.

After several months of dating, a second insider told Us in November 2025 that Sweeney and Braun’s romance was “getting serious.”

“Neither of them expected it to turn into something serious at first and are surprised by how genuine the connection has become,” the second source exclusively shared, noting that the couple spent time together in between the Euphoria actress’ work commitments. “Scooter is extremely supportive and that is one of the reasons why she is so drawn to him.”

The second insider added at the time, ““He’s deeply interested in her career and life, and [he] often offers valuable perspective and guidance that she really appreciates.”

Sweeney and Braun publicly debuted their romance in May.

Related: Inside Sydney Sweeney and Scooter Braun’s ‘Very Serious’ Romance

Sydney Sweeney and Scooter Braun are slowly “blending their lives” as they become more committed, a source exclusively tells Us Weekly. “They are the real deal, and their relationship has become very serious,” the insider shares, noting that “people around them thought that this would be just a fling, but they are committed.” Sweeney, 28, […]

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“I’ve met an extraordinary woman, kind and generous and smart, and real and down-to-earth,” he said on the “Second Thought” podcast at the time, revealing he is a massive fan of Sweeney’s hit HBO show, Euphoria. “I’m biased … I like it. I think there’s been an incredible performance by a certain actress.”

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The next month, Sweeney took to her Instagram page to celebrate Braun’s 45th birthday.

“Happiest of birthdays to the man with the biggest heart I know ❤️,” Sweeney gushed via Instagram in June. “Thank you for all the living room dances and making me smile again. A good man is rare. A man like you is once in a lifetime.”

Braun was previously married to Yael Cohen, with whom he shares three kids, from 2014 to 2022.

Actress Daisy Ridley, best known for her portrayal of Rey in the “Star Wars” sequel trilogy, recently opened up about an injury that she suffered in her own home. Although she has done plenty of stunt training for her role as a Jedi and underwent serious swimming lessons for her role in “Young Women and the Sea,” it appears she injured herself while doing ordinary housework.

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On Saturday, August 22, the “Chaos Walking” actress revealed that she had pulled something in her back and injured something in her head or neck, as she couldn’t turn it to the left.

“Scrubbed the oven so hard I pulled something in my back and can’t turn my head to the left?!” she posted in an Instagram Story on Saturday morning.

The photo features her sitting close to the camera wearing a black tank top. She is resting her head in one hand as she glances away from the camera.

Although it’s unclear how serious the injury is, many fans hope she recovers quickly, as they are eager to see her return to her role as Rey. She last portrayed the character in 2019’s “The Rise of Skywalker,” which received a lackluster reception.

When Will Rey Next Appear In A Galaxy Far, Far Away?

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Fans are still unsure where Rey’s story will go following the events of 2019’s “The Rise of Skywalker.” Disney’s D23 event focused on the next upcoming “Star Wars” movie: 2027’s “Star Wars: Starlighter,” starring Ryan Gosling. The film, directed by Shawn Levy, will take place about five years after the fall of the First Order; however, it remains unclear if Ridley will reprise her role for a cameo appearance.

In 2023’s Star Wars Celebration, then-Lucasfilm head Kathleen Kennedy announced that Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy would be directing a film based on the new Jedi Order that Rey will be creating. However, updates about the project have been few and far between, as numerous writers have been hired and dismissed, including “Lost” creator Damon Lindelof.

Ridley Says New ‘Star Wars’ Film Is ‘Worth The Wait’

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The “We Bury the Dead” actress later told Parade that the new movie will be “worth the wait,” adding, “It will arrive when it’s ready.”

In 2026, Kennedy did not mention Rey’s movie at all during her exit interview with Deadline, leaving some to believe the film will be folded into the Simon Kinberg trilogy. However, details about that project have yet to be released.

Daisy Ridley Speaks Out On ‘The Hunt For Ben Solo’

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In October 2025, Adam Driver shocked fans by revealing that he and director Steven Soderbergh had been working on a movie called “The Hunt for Ben Solo,” which would have featured his character, Ben Solo. Although his character passed away at the end of “The Rise of Skywalker,” Lucasfilm gave the film the green light. After all, many characters, such as Emperor Palpatine and Darth Maul, have returned to a galaxy far, far away after their supposed “deaths.”

However, Driver told the Associated Press that executives later pulled the plug on the project because they didn’t understand how his character could still be alive.

Last December, Ridley told IGN that she had heard “rumblings” about the axed project. “I have lots of friends who are crew, so things always travel like that. But, whoa! When the story came out, no, I was like, ‘Oh, my God!’ And it was him that said it, right? It was funny because, like, ‘Oh, wow, Adam is saying it,’ and that’s the big surprise of the year,” she said.

Will ‘The Hunt for Ben Solo’ Ever Get Made?

Content Warning: This list contains brief mentions of domestic violence.Ever since K-dramas hit the global market in the 2000s/2010s, most are known for having many very long episodes; die-hard fans remember the time when a standard episode lasted anywhere between 70 and 90 minutes, and there were around 20 of them to go through. With streaming series becoming more popular and widespread, the K-drama gods have become merciful, and we have started getting fewer and shorter episodes.

As of 2026, there are numerous K-dramas that you can easily binge-watch and finish within a weekend. If you’re planning on taking an even more extreme approach and trying to watch a show within a single day, well, you’re brave, but you’re in luck—you can binge these K-drama masterpieces in one day.

‘The Trauma Code: Heroes On Call’ (2025)

Image via Netflix

The Trauma Code: Heroes On Call is one of the more recent Netflix original K-dramas that consists of eight episodes, each between 40 and 70 minutes. The story is very much about underdogs prevailing, and the characters are likable and have interesting obstacles ahead of them; most notably, the show is, perhaps unexpectedly, extremely fast-paced and easy to binge-watch. You’ll find yourself breezing through the show’s first half, taking a break to make lunch, and then flying over the second half without a hitch. It’s fun and addictive, perfect for a day’s viewing.

The Trauma Code follows the doctors at the Hankuk National University Hospital, and their efforts to gain more funding for the depleted but crucial trauma center. The Minister of Health pulls strings and brings the famous ex-combat medic and an extraordinary trauma surgeon, Baek Kang-hyuk (Ju Ji-hoon) to revive the trauma center and train doctors to work there. As the hospital’s hierarchy begins to crumble, the leading departments start losing funds due to the urgency of reviving the trauma center. Baek and his coworkers have to deal with jealousy, anger, and scheming of other doctors while working on urgent medical cases.

‘Tastefully Yours’ (2025)

Image via ENA

Tastefully Yours is another new series, this time a lovely rom-com with an extremely beautiful visual identity. Since cuisine, cooking, and food are integral parts of South Korean culture, it’s typical to see shows where actors have mouthfuls of food, enjoy a meal together—instant noodles or others—and even have scenes and moments revolving around eating. Tastefully Yours takes that up a notch by making the lead character an exceptionally talented chef who graduated from the CIA (Culinary Institute of America). Pair her with locally talented outcasts and a spoiled rich kid who learns through love, and you have the greatest romantic comedy of the year on your hands.

Tastefully Yours follows the director of Korea’s biggest food conglomerate, Beom-woo (Kang Ha-neul), who, as it’s quickly revealed, steals recipes from local chefs and restaurateurs and promotes them in his own restaurants. Beom-woo finds a recipe online for a complex fine-dining meal, and his path leads him to its creator, the quiet and distant loner, chef Yeon-joo (Go Min-si). Beom-woo starts hovering around Yeon-joo to steal her recipe book, but, as it goes, getting closer to her makes him more infatuated than angry. Tastefully Yours boasts beautiful visuals, including nature shots and shots of delicious foods. It’s hard to look away and not get hungry; the chemistry between Kang and Go is palpable, and Kang proves why he’s a K-drama king.

‘My Name’ (2021)

Image via Netflix

My Name is one of the earlier examples of a Korean show that starts fast and ends fast, leaving you wanting more. However, compared to some, this action thriller may be too much for fans of more casual K-dramas, since it’s a pure action series that tackles espionage, betrayal, and revenge. Han So-hee steps into the lead role in this The Departed-esque story, and if you watched Gyeongseong Creature before this show, you’ll love another one of Han’s takes on the tormented protagonist who puts up walls and seeks revenge.

My Name follows Yoon Ji-woo (Han), who loses her father and wants to find those responsible for his death. She joins a gang, infiltrates the police as part of the gang, and becomes their mole in the force so she can find her father’s killers. Ji-woo becomes involved in things bigger than her, but impresses the people around her with her perseverance, grit, and brute force; she’s one to watch out for, and the more we watch her, the more we cheer for her success. My Name has eight episodes that you can go through within a day, very easily; it’s a rare K-drama that got 100% on Rotten Tomatoes and is universally acclaimed.

‘Bloodhounds’ (2023–2026)

Image via Netflix

Speaking of bloody and intense action, I don’t think there will be a list where I won’t include Bloodhounds. This eight-episode action miracle might be one of the best action shows of the past five or ten years: it’s beautifully choreographed, with dynamic fight scenes that feel like watching an elaborate, violent dance; the performances are heartfelt and attention-grabbing; the narrative, though classic action/revenge, is just interesting enough to keep you wanting more. The show’s final episode takes a wild stance away from the rest of the series, slowing down the pace—necessarily—but still delivering the much-needed final touches.

Bloodhounds is set in 2020, during the COVID lockdowns, when many physical shops and those in the hospitality industry had to close their businesses; many were renting their business spaces and failed to deliver rent due to non-existent incomes. Loan sharks take the opportunity to put these people in debt and then bully them whenever they’re unable to pay. The son of a café owner who falls victim to a loan shark, Geun-woo (Woo Do-hwan), joins forces with a boxing partner, Woo-jin (Lee Sang-yi), and they embark on a bloody and arduous journey to stop the loan shark from attacking more people. Bloodhounds will be an all-day watch for you; you can warm up with Woo and Lee’s chemistry, great fighting skills, and good looks.

‘As You Stood By’ (2025)

Image via Netflix

As You Stood By is fairly new and trending, and it’s absolutely amazing. First-ever Korean Emmy winner Lee Yoo-mi (won for Squid Game in 2022) stars alongside the tough Jeon So-nee (Parasyte: The Grey), and the two are joined by Lee Moo-saeng (Thirty-Nine) in one of his most appealing and charismatic roles yet. The star-studded cast is quite appealing, though the show’s heavy topic is central. It realistically portrays domestic violence, sometimes to a fault—viewers sensitive to such content should be advised.

As You Stood By follows Eun-soo (Jeon), a shopping mall employee who works as a personal assistant to many wealthy clients in the boutique. Eun-soo notices one of her clients has bruises all over her body, and reminisces about the time her father also harmed her mother. When Eun-soo’s childhood best friend, Hui-soo (Lee), stops answering her calls, Eun-soo visits her and sees marks of domestic violence. Tired of standing by and not doing anything, Eun-soo decides to help her friend get out of her abusive marriage, encouraging those around her to stop simply “standing by,” too. There’s a major plot twist that makes the show more than just a domestic drama; it’s a crime thriller and, I promise you, it has a happy ending. This is one of the best K-dramas of the past five years, and a major wake-up call within the industry.

‘When Life Gives You Tangerines’ (2025)

Image via Netflix

Fans of slice-of-life K-dramas like Reply 1988 or Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha can be happy about the release of When Life Gives You Tangerines, one of the most visually and narratively beautiful shows of the past few years. The retro vibes, the chemistry between IU and Park Bo-gum, and the heartfelt story make this show a gentle and kind view of family life and the relationship between two lovebirds with a fated romance. There’s no blood, no trauma, no craziness, just romance, friendship, life, and everything in between.

When Life Gives You Tangerines follows different timelines, and is narrated by Yang Geum-yeong (IU), the daughter of Oh Ae-sun (also IU) and Yang Gwan-sik (Park). Through her narration, she remembers the times when she was a child, and narrates the events before her birth, while Ae-sun was a young girl in Jeju Island in the 1950s and Gwan-sik was already infatuated with her. The show’s original name is a native Jeju Island saying, which literally means “Thank you for your hard work,” and the translation, “when life gives you tangerines” is an homage to Jeju, where tangerines are the native fruits of the island. Be warned though, the show has 16 episodes, around an hour long; if you’re more than willing to take out half a day to watch the series, you’ll be able to comfortably finish it. If you’re looking for an all-day binge session, this show will do just fine.

‘Light Shop’ (2024)

Image via Disney+

Light Shop is a Disney+ K-drama that will terrify you, make you cry, and warm your heart like a light bulb. It’s a limited series consisting of eight episodes, and the first few episodes vibe like a horror story, while the second half of the show quickly takes a turn into emotional territory. Light Shop is a meditation on love, loss, sacrifice, and grief, and follows, most notably, people’s readiness to face death. It may sound heavy, but Light Shop is extremely touching and heartfelt; Ju Ji-hoon gives us an incredibly emotional turn in a scene that could make a stone cry, while the rest of the cast does their work just as beautifully.

Light Shop follows a group of strangers who have a hard time facing some events from their past. They wander around an empty, dark street, until they come to a brightly lit light shop, run by the mysterious keeper, Won-young (Ju). Won-young meets people all the time and asks about the purpose of their arrival; one by one, the visitors begin to realize what that is. On the other hand, the second integral character is ER nurse, Young-ji (Park Bo-young), who has the talent to communicate with the spirit world. Light Shop will scare you before making you cry, and the stunning production value, great performances, and intense storytelling make it one of the greatest K-dramas ever.

‘Death’s Game’ (2023)

Image via TVING

Death’s Game is available to stream on Prime Video, closing the circle of original streamer K-dramas on the list. This series gives its protagonist a lot to think about, and it might even encourage viewers to do the same. Its heavy topics may not be suitable for every kind of K-drama fan, but this meditation on life and its meaning is presented as an exciting thriller that tries to talk about every aspect of living. Seo In-guk and Park So-dam step into the lead roles, and Park thrills as the physical manifestation of Death. Seo, though we don’t see him as much, is the lead, and his presence is marked in unusual ways. Visually stunning and narratively exciting, Death’s Game is a K-drama masterpiece you’ll watch within a single day.

Death’s Game follows Choi Yee-jae (Seo), a young man struggling to get a job and stand on his own two feet. Desperate and feeling like there’s no way out, Yee-jae nearly dies by suicide, but not before he’s intercepted by Death herself. She gives him several chances to experience life from other people’s perspectives, which causes Yee-jae frustration and desperation. Seeing life through other people’s eyes allows Yee-jae a clearer view of life—but is she willing to let him live after all? Death’s Game is an interesting series that has fun but also often lands into realism. It’s a binge-watch like no other.

A Texas judge denied a new trial for Karmelo Anthony on Saturday in the stabbing death of a 17-year-old athlete at a high school track meet, a killing that drew national attention and led to harassment of the families.

RELATED: Karmelo Anthony’s Lawyers Request A New Trial And Judge Following Conviction (UPDATE)

Anthony, 19, was convicted of murder in June and sentenced to 35 years in prison for the April 2025 killing of Austin Metcalf, 17.
Judge Michael Chitty denied the retrial motion in a half-page order following a two-day hearing this week near Dallas, citing a review of the evidence and arguments. He did not elaborate.

Russell Wilson, Anthony’s attorney, said the defense would appeal.
“Our commitment to our client has not changed,” Wilson said. “We will continue to advocate vigorously on his behalf through every lawful avenue available.”
At the center of Anthony’s retrial request was an off-the-record agreement between prosecutors and his trial defense team to keep damaging character evidence about both teenagers out of the proceeding. Both sides agreed to hold back evidence that risked further inflaming a case already boiling with racial tensions and death threats.
The case attracted widespread attention in part because of a flood of social media posts that amplified the killing in racial terms. Anthony is Black; Metcalf was white. Lawyers on both sides, however, told jurors that the case had nothing to do with race.
But worries that prosecutors would renege on the agreement as Anthony prepared to testify, his attorneys say, came after a heated argument between lawyers on both sides and changed their defense strategy at the eleventh hour. Anthony ultimately decided not to testify.
Prosecutor Bill Wirskye defended the trial as fair this week.
“We respect, and expected, the court’s decision denying the motion for a new trial,” Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis said after the denial was announced. “The jury’s guilty verdict stands, and we remain confident in the process. Every defendant has the right to appeal, and our thoughts and prayers remain with the Metcalf family in the painful wake of last week’s hearing.”
Anthony’s attorneys also demanded a retrial because they said trial judge John Roach’s courtroom rules were so strict that they limited the public’s access to the proceedings. And in asking for Roach’s recusal, they noted that he gave a posttrial interview with a Dallas TV station in which he expressed agreement with the jury’s decision.
“Whatever they say, they got it right,” Roach said.
Roach said his rules were necessary for a fair trial, and prosecutors insisted he did nothing wrong.
Jurors rejected Anthony’s claims that he was defending himself during a confrontation with Metcalf in the bleachers of the track meet.
Anthony and Metcalf were athletes for different high schools in the Dallas suburb of Frisco, where several teams were competing on the rainy spring day when the meet took place.
Anthony sat under the tent that belonged to Metcalf’s team, and Metcalf and others repeatedly told him to leave, witnesses testified. That led to an escalating confrontation.
Prosecutors said Anthony provoked Metcalf, and witnesses identified Anthony as the aggressor.
At one point Anthony reached inside a bag and said: “Touch me and see what happens,” according to a police report.
Witnesses said Metcalf pushed Anthony, who pulled out a knife and stabbed him in the chest.

Associated Press writer Jamie Stengle contributed to this report via AP Newsroom.

Mychal Threets is sharing an update on his wellness amid the Reading Rainbow host’s recent hospitalization.

“I just wanted to apologize for worrying so many people,” Threets, 36, said in a video shared via Threads on Saturday, August 22. “I just got back from a five-day stay at the hospital, a five-day psychiatric hold. I haven’t been OK for what feels like a very, very long time. I am not OK. But I have hope that I will get to OK.”

He continued, “I’m on the struggle bookmobile. It’s gonna take a long time for me to be OK. It’s going to take a long time, but I just wanted to say ‘thank you’ to the multitude of doctors, nurses and mental health workers I saw — it’s not enough, but thank you, you saved my life.”

The Reading Rainbow host announced he’s unwell on Monday, August 17, revealing his plan to check himself into a nearby hospital amid mental health concerns.

Related: ‘Reading Rainbow’ Host Discussed Anxiety Struggles Before Hospitalization

New Reading Rainbow host Mychal Threets has been candid about his mental health struggles. “We need to give Doechii their flowers for making a song about anxiety,” Threets, 36, recently wrote via TikTok, sharing footage of himself holding a bouquet while shouting out the singer’s popular song. “We really needed that, and she came through!” […]

“I am not OK. Maybe I’ll never be okay. I’m seeking help. Going to the hopital [sic] tomorrow,” the TikTok famous librarian shared via Threads at the time. “In this moment I am safe. By God’s grace.”

Threets continued, “No matter what happens to me I will always be thankful for the extraordinary people in my life who worry, who help me. Thank you for your care. I will always love you.”

Us reached out to Threets for comment at the time but did not hear back.

Prior to his hospitalization, Threets alluded to mental health issues while acknowledging how powerful it can be when famous artists and others with massive social and cultrual platforms share their own experiences with mental illness.

Related: Perez Hilton’s Podcast Cohost Addresses Blogger’s Troubling Livestream

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Perez Hilton’s podcast cohost, Chris Booker, has broken his silence after the blogger’s troubling livestream and subsequent hospitalization. “I am so profoundly sad for Perez and his family and what they’re all going through. It’s truly unimaginable,” Booker, 55, wrote via Instagram on Wednesday, August 5. “I have only spoken briefly with the family. I […]

“We need to give Doechii their flowers for making a song about anxiety,” Threets recently wrote via TikTok, sharing footage that showed the librarian holding a bouquet while shouting out the singer’s popular song. “We really needed that, and she came through!”

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While sharing his Saturday update, Threets reiterated that it’s OK to be “struggling” in life.

“We’re struggling, we’re human beings, we’re doing our best,” he continued in the video, at times growing emotional. “Thank you for being you. Thank you for staying. Maybe I’ll see you at the library. I’ll see you tomorrow. I love you.”

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.

Lady Gaga has scored a major legal victory in the battle over her “Mayhem” album branding. A federal judge sided with the singer, finding that her use of the name is protected by free-speech principles.

The ruling follows an earlier win for Gaga, when the same judge rejected Lost Surfboards’ attempt to block her from selling “Mayhem” merchandise while the case played out.

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Lady Gaga has defeated a trademark lawsuit accusing her of infringing on a surfboard brand with the name of her “Mayhem” album.

U.S. District Judge Fernando M. Olguin dismissed the case on Tuesday, August 18, ruling that Gaga’s use of the word was protected by the First Amendment. Lost Surfboards had sued the singer last year, arguing that consumers could mistakenly believe the album was connected to its Mayhem line, which the company says it has sold since the 1980s.

According to Billboard, the company also took issue with Gaga’s stylized red “Mayhem” logo, claiming it closely resembled branding used on its surfboards and merchandise. However, Olguin found that the lawsuit failed to show that Gaga had explicitly misled consumers about the source of her work. The judge noted that titles of expressive works, such as albums, receive heightened free-speech protection.

Gaga Fought Off Attempt To Ban ‘Mayhem’ Merch

Months before the lawsuit was dismissed, Gaga was already fighting Lost’s attempt to restrict how she used “Mayhem.”

In May 2025, the surf company sought a preliminary injunction barring Gaga from using the name on clothing and accessories while the case proceeded. The request covered everything from T-shirts and jackets to caps, sandals and tank tops.

Gaga pushed back hard, calling Lost’s consumer-confusion argument “nonsensical.” Her filing stressed that her merchandise was sold primarily through her website and concert tour, while Lost targeted a niche surf market.

Gaga further argued that she had no plans to enter Lost’s territory, bluntly stating that she had “no interest in selling surf gear.” Judge Olguin later denied Lost’s request, allowing Gaga to keep selling the disputed merchandise as the case continued.

Lady Gaga Said ‘Mayhem’ Reflected Her Personal Chaos

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Long before “Mayhem” became the subject of a courtroom fight, Gaga had opened up about why the word felt so personal to her.

Speaking to “Good Morning America” around the album’s March 2025 release, Gaga said the title reflected the different versions of herself she has navigated throughout her career. She described feeling as though she had been “playing multiple different people” while learning to hold those identities together.

That internal conflict also connected to how she viewed the world around her. Gaga said she wanted the record to capture personal chaos while still giving listeners something they could celebrate and dance through.

‘Mayhem’ Became One Of Lady Gaga’s Biggest Recent Wins

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Whatever the courtroom drama surrounding its name, “Mayhem” quickly became one of Gaga’s biggest recent commercial successes. The album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, marking Gaga’s seventh chart-topper and the biggest opening week for an album by a woman at that point in 2025.

Streaming also delivered a career high. “Mayhem” generated 108.05 million official on-demand streams during its first week, while 136,000 units came from traditional album sales. The project made an immediate impact beyond the album chart. Ten songs from “Mayhem” landed on the Billboard Hot 100 in the same week, led by “Die With a Smile” at No. 2 and “Abracadabra” at No. 19.

Gaga also broke a Billboard record when “Mayhem” became her eighth No. 1 on the Top Dance Albums chart, giving her the most leaders in the ranking’s history. Physical sales were strong too, with 74,000 vinyl copies sold in the album’s first week, another personal best for Gaga.

The Story Behind Lost Surfboards’ ‘Mayhem’ Name

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For Lost Surfboards, “Mayhem” was part of the brand’s identity long before Gaga entered the picture. The company traces its roots to 1985, when shaper Matt Biolos and a group of school friends formed “Team Lost” around their shared love of surfing, skateboarding, and snowboarding.

Biolos began sanding surfboards after high school in 1987 and soon started shaping his own. He adopted “Mayhem” as a nickname, inspired by the second board model he shaped, and the name became closely tied to his work. Over the years, Lost grew from a small California surf operation into an international brand.

When they sued Gaga in 2025, Biolos said his company had been making “Lost Mayhem boards” for nearly 40 years. He also framed the dispute as a fight over the brand’s image. Biolos said Lost catered to surfers, skaters, and snowboarders who valued its alternative identity and feared mainstream pop merchandise could dilute that reputation.

Singer and former “Real Housewives of Atlanta” star Kandi Burruss finalized her divorce from Todd Tucker in March 2026. Since then, the two have remained amicable as they co-parent their two young children, leading some to wonder if a reconciliation may be brewing. Recently, in a new interview, the “RHOA” alum shot down the reports.

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Burruss appeared on “The Ricky Smiley Morning Show” in August 2026 to promote her one-woman show, “I Do, I Did, I’m Done.” During the interview, the show touched on the current state of her relationship with Tucker, and she gave an update.

In a clip from the interview, the “RHOA” alum stated, “I feel like the more we are able to get past the drama, the better we’re able to get along as friends.” After that, she highlighted the recent rumors, saying, “People automatically wanna say, ‘Oh, they’re getting back together.’ Now, because it’s hard for me to push past certain things.”

Notably, Burruss’ comments come after the two embarked on a family vacation in July 2026, with the singer/songwriter sharing footage on social media. In the post, she was seen asking Tucker about the book he was reading, “Daily Prayers for Men.”

She joked in the video, “Let me just say this. We was married for almost 12 years, and that man ain’t never had no Prayers for Men book, none of that. Now we divorced, and he wanna be out here on the beach, well out on the pool with his Daily Prayers for Men book.”

The ‘Real Housewives Of Atlanta’ Alum Also Cleared Up Reports About Her Divorce

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Later in the conversation, one of the show’s co-hosts, rapper Da Brat, chimed in to discuss the divorce settlement. Specifically, she appeared to believe earlier reports that Tucker had walked away from the marriage with a portion of Burruss’ estate from before their time together.

This led the “RHOA” alum to call out one of the show’s other hosts for reporting it incorrectly. In clarifying, she said, “The only thing that was split between us was the things we built together. Meaning the properties we bought together.”

Burruss added, “Anything that was mine – if it was mine before, it’s mine after.” She went on, “Even if it was mine in the middle time, if it was just mine, it was still mine. So, I think the impression that was given was that he was able to get me for all these things.”

The Terms Of Their Divorce

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Burrus filed for divorce from Tucker on November 21, 2025. Days later, during an Amazon Live session, the songstress broke her silence on the matter, saying, “This is something that has been brewing for a while.”

She continued, “All the times you’ve been seeing me online [all smiles] means nothing. I’ve been going through it, child. I’ve been going through it. Life has been life-ing me.” In subsequent months leading up to the divorce being finalized, she revealed that the marriage reached its final straw in July 2025, and she’s since hinted that infidelity may have been the cause.

Regarding the divorce settlement, according to Us Weekly, Burruss and Tucker will share joint legal and physical custody of their 10-year-old and six-year-old children. Neither of them will be required to pay child or spousal support. The “RHOA” alum will retain the kids’ passports, but Tucker can request them ahead of international travel.

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Regarding finances, Burruss was required to pay Tucker a lump sum of $426,000. The settlement also required the couple to sell a shared food truck and divided their vehicles. The real estate portion of the settlement was redacted, but Tucker was ordered to vacate the marital home within 15 days.

Kandi’s Daughter, Riley Burruss, Has Opened Up About The Divorce

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Though not her biological dad, Tucker has been part of Riley Burruss‘ life since she was a child, as he and the “RHOA” star began dating in 2011 and married in 2014. The “Next Gen NYC” star broke her silence in July 2026 during an interview on “Today on SiriusXM.”

She said, “I will say, a lot of people forget the fact that yes, a divorce happens between two people, but it affects more than just those two people.” Riley then said, “So it is really hard for me.”

Regarding how she’d handled the divorce, Riley shared, “It’s just been a year of adapting. It’s tough at times. It’s easy at times. It’s confusing. I’m still learning, honestly.”

Kandi’s One Woman Show Is Nearing Its End

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Burruss began publicly discussing her one-woman show, “I Do, I Did, I’m Done,” in March 2026. Initially, the City Winery event was intended to be a one-off. However, following the runaway success of the first show, held in Atlanta in April 2026, she turned it into a tour.

Now, per her official website, “I Do, I Did, I’m done” has two more dates, with the final performance taking place on September 20 in Chicago.

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