Entertainment
What Everyone Is Getting Wrong About Star Trek’s Starfleet Academy
By Chris Snellgrove
| Published
The new Star Trek spinoff, Starfleet Academy, has had a controversial launch, and I have been one of its harshest critics; after all, the show’s casual mangling of franchise lore and cringeworthy humor is sometimes downright painful to watch. However, the one criticism that I’ve always found insane is fans hating how the show often focuses on its young cadets learning something about themselves and embracing a hidden power they didn’t realize was there. The reason this critique is so silly is simple: Starfleet Academy is explicitly designed as a Young Adult show, and this kind of storytelling is a major part of the most famous YA literature.
Season 1 of Starfleet Academy has spent many episodes focusing on specific characters: “Kids These Days” is all about Caleb losing his mother and becoming a criminal who seeks redemption (not to mention a surrogate mommy figure) in Starfleet. “Beta Test” focuses on how Betazed princess Tamina builds a new life for herself at the War College, and “Vox in Excelso” is about the Klingon Jay-Den making peace with his family and with the cultural heritage that he simultaneously embraces and rejects. Most famously, “Series Acclimation Mil” focuses on SAM as she studies Benjamin Sisko, all in the hopes of being a better emissary for her holographic race.
You Can Blame Harry Potter For This
These kinds of stories aren’t for everyone, and they will be particularly disappointing to fans who want stories with higher stakes. However, Star Trek fans who relentlessly dunk on these kinds of stories are missing the point of what Paramount is trying to do: recruit younger fans into the Star Trek family. With Starfleet Academy, they are attempting to do so in the most straightforward way possible: by copying the formula made famous by Harry Potter and countless other book franchises aimed at Young Adults.
Ask yourself: beyond the specifics about wands and broomsticks, what is the story of Harry Potter about? It’s about the titular character leading a fairly boring existence until he is plucked out of obscurity and whisked away to a magical academy. There, he learns that he is a special person of important destiny, one who is destined to take on the greatest threat the Wizarding World has ever known.
May The Odds Be Ever In Paramount’s Favor
This basic formula plays out again and again in YA literature: The Hunger Games, for example, is about an unassuming young woman who receives special training and taps into abilities that help her take on a fascist dictator. Twilight is about an equally unassuming young woman who falls in love with a vampire, eventually discovering special mental abilities that she uses to save the day before becoming a creature of the night. Oh, and Percy Jackson & the Olympians involves the titular everyman character finding out he’s a literal demigod whose training will eventually help him overcome a Titan bent on ruling the world.
Starfleet Academy is doing its own version of this with its cadets: the academy functions a bit like Hogwarts, representing an entirely new world to these traumatized youngsters who grew up during the Burn. There, they all discover that the things that have always made them outcasts are actually special strengths that can help them serve the greater good. Caleb’s lifetime of criminal activity makes him a scrappy and resourceful hero, SAM’s relative lack of life experience gives her fresh insights, Jay-Den’s rejection of Klingon values helps him become a better Starfleet officer, and so on.
Kids Will Be Kids (Even Chosen Ones)
Does this mean you need to magically like Starfleet Academy’s preferred brand of storytelling? Of course not: by definition, YA literature is aimed at young adults, and many longtime Star Trek fans are very thoroughly middle-aged. Therefore, it’s no great shock that stories designed to appeal to teenagers are often off-putting to older viewers who are unlikely to pick up such books in the first place.
However, Starfleet Academy has been (slowly but surely) getting better at balancing out its YA-centric “everyone is a special chosen one” storytelling with more serious and ambitious episodes aimed at more discerning viewers. In time, Paramount may succeed and, like JK Rowling’s famous books, appeal to fans of all ages. If not, though, this attempt to appeal to bite Harry Potter’s style could backfire, casting “Avada Kedavra” on the franchise and killing Star Trek altogether.
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Refreshing your spring wardrobe doesn’t have to mean buying something super trendy you’ll only wear for one season. Instead, opt for staple pieces you can wear again and again — think classic pieces with a more current twist and elevated feel. Lucky for Us, Amazon is stocked with viral fashion essentials just like these, and they start at only $10.
These shopper-approved picks are a mix of the best that spring fashion has to offer. This includes slim, comfortable sneakers for a sporty-chic look, lightweight pants you can wear in so many ways and romantic tops that seem like they came straight from a boutique. Start adding these to your cart now to upgrade your closet.
19 Viral Spring 2026 Fashion Essentials From Amazon
1. Our Favorite: Stretchy and comfortable with an elastic waist and wide-leg fit, these loose trousers are a staple for any season. The faux zipper and front pleating make them look more put-together, even if they feel like sweatpants. Bonus: they’re available in multiple inseam sizes.
2. Simple and Stylish: This versatile tank dress is the kind of piece you can easily dress up or down. Throw it on with a jean jacket if it’s chilly, or wear it on its own with heeled sandals for a party.
3. Lightweight Layer: Opt for a trendy update on a classic with this cropped trench coat. It still has the same timeless and chic feel, but the shorter length makes it a better fit for warm, sunny days.
4. Go-To Tote: This vegan leather tote will quickly replace your everyday bag. It’s roomy and structured without being too rigid, so it will fit pretty much everything you need. Plus, woven totes are a big trend for spring and one you’ll use long after this season.
5. Dark Denim: You can expect to see a lot of dark wash denim this season, and fortunately, it happens to lend a sleek look to any pair of jeans. These wide-leg jeans are so versatile and have just the right amount of stretch.
Ahh, springtime! The season of longer, warmer days, outdoor dining and lighter, brighter fashion. If you, like Us, are ready to shed your bulky layers and welcome breezy dresses and easy footwear this time of year is known for, you’re in luck. Amazon is full of stylish pieces that will not only make getting dressed feel […]
6. Soft Florals: This lightweight, blousy button-down is bound to be your new favorite top. Dress it up with trousers or a skirt, or keep it casual with jeans or shorts.
7. Celeb-Approved: These Adidas Sambas have the slim, low-profile fit that’s so popular right now, making them the perfect everyday pair. Bonus: stars like Hilary Duff and Taylor Swift are big fans too.
8. Office Appropriate: Don’t put your sweaters away just yet — this ribbed cardigan is just right for transitional weather. Button it up for a polished look or keep it open as an easy layering piece.
9. Expensive Looking: With a silky look and feel, this satin midi skirt reads as luxe and still comes in at a budget-friendly price point. We love how it looks just as good with sneakers as it does with heels.
10. Easy Breezy: Consider these lightweight, breezy pants a must-have for warmer weather. The cotton-and-linen blend makes them super breathable and airy, but they still look put-together enough for work.
11. Rich Mom Bag: There’s something about this slouchy leopard print bag that makes it look like it belongs in a designer store — and it costs less than $30. It’s a subtle way to play with trendy leopard print, and as a bonus, it comes with a small removable pouch to stay organized.
12. Hollywood Favorite: Stars like Aubrey Plaza, Katie Holmes and Leighton Meester have been spotted in Mary Jane flats just like these. The trend is comfy, practical and sophisticated, so it’s definitely one we can get behind.
13. Bright and Bold: Embrace warmer weather with this bright maxi dress. The colorful striped design is one that you’ll definitely wear through summer, too.
14. So Glam: This silk bandana is an unexpected, stylish pick you can use to upgrade any look. Use it as a hair accessory, loosely knot it around your neck or add it to a handbag strap for a pop of color.
15. Nautical Vibes: These canvas sneakers are a more low-key take on trending boat shoes. They have the same look but are a little more relaxed. Plus, we love how you can slip them on hands-free.
16. Sporty Chic: This cozy fleece jacket is exactly what you should be throwing on when it’s rainy and chilly outside or when you’re headed to the gym. It has a cool sporty vibe and is so comfy.
17. Lovely Lace: With eyelet lace, ruffled sleeves and a pretty floral pattern, this embroidered blouse is our favorite romantic top yet. Opt for simple white or a bright color.
18. Trending Now: Believe it or not, track pants are going to be everywhere this spring. We like this casual pair because it’s easy to throw on with your favorite sneakers and tee when you have errands to run.
19. Western Feel: This denim vest gives off a more elevated Western vibe that is just right for spring. Wear it buttoned up with a maxi skirt or your favorite trousers for a casual and cool look.
Military green is having a moment again — and this time, it’s more versatile than ever. If your spring wardrobe feels stuck in a cycle of black, white and denim, this earthy neutral offers an easy way to refresh your everyday outfits without stepping too far outside your comfort zone. If you ask Us, this hue […]
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The “American Idol” host’s former colleague recounted his numerous “wardrobe malfunctions” on set.
This article covers a developing story. Continue to check back with us as we will be adding more information as it becomes available.
HBO’s new Harry Potter series still hasn’t premiered, but the rollout is already moving fast. Just days after the first teaser arrived, HBO has now announced a full behind-the-scenes special that will give fans an early look at how this new version of Hogwarts is coming together. That alone says a lot about how big a swing this show is for the studio. It also gives audiences a chance to see the craft side of the project before the series itself lands in 2027.
The special is called Finding Harry: The Craft Behind the Magic, and it will debut on Sunday, April 5 at 8:00 p.m. in the UK on HBO Max. In the U.S., it will hit HBO Max at 3:00 p.m. ET / 12:00 p.m. PT, before also airing on HBO later that evening at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT. The synopsis can be found below.
It’s been 25 years since audiences first walked the hallowed halls of Hogwarts. Now, this exclusive special offers an inside look at the epic scale and meticulous care behind HBO’s new Harry Potter series – told through the lens of the artists, craftspeople, and technicians bringing J.K. Rowling’s beloved books to life for a new generation. Featuring interviews with members of the casting, production design, costume design, and creature effects teams, the special chronicles the extensive process behind finding our new Harry, Ron, and Hermione – while celebrating the awe-inspiring commitment to detail and immense talent that has come together to fill out this extraordinary world. With appearances from key cast members including John Lithgow, Janet McTeer, and Paapa Essiedu, and narrated by Nick Frost, FINDING HARRY: THE CRAFT BEHIND THE MAGIC explores the exciting new era of one of the most enduring stories of our time.
This article covers a developing story. Continue to check back with us as we will be adding more information as it becomes available.
Entertainment
“Age of Attraction ”star Pfeifer Hill explains why she skipped reunion: 'Protect your peace'
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“The Bachelor” franchise star Nick Viall hosted a podcast reunion on his “Viall Files” series.
Chicago Med is causing concern after putting a beloved character’s future at risk — but did they officially get killed off?
During the Wednesday, April 1, episode of the hit NBC series, Dr. Charles (Oliver Platt) has a difficult day when he tries to help someone who calls into the suicide hotline. The man reveals he’s holding a gun before disconnecting. With the case sent over to emergency services, Dr. Charles can’t follow up.
He then has a fight with his daughter, is accused of a patient of letting his emotional issues affect his work, got an official complaint raised again him and considering another job after an argument with Goodwin.
Dr. Charles ultimately has blurry vision and hallucinates his childhood. The final scene shows him on the ground while gasping for while, which left his health scare and future on the show unclear. Fans noted that the trailer for next week’s episode hinted at a stroke but it wasn’t confirmed if Dr. Charles died.
If there’s one thing Dick Wolf isn’t afraid of, it’s killing off a beloved character. A fact that fans of the One Chicago universe know all too well. The franchise kicked off in 2012 with Chicago Fire. Chicago P.D. was added in 2014 and Chicago Med debuted in 2015. The cast of each show has […]
One Chicago fans have gotten used to seeing their favorite characters come and go from Chicago Fire, Chicago Med and Chicago P.D. over the years. After there were some questions about the franchise’s revolving door of cast members, NBC’s president of program planning Jeff Bader explained why he wasn’t concerned.
“Cast comes in, cast goes out,” Bader told TVLine in an interview published in July 2024. “It’s interesting. Because every year there are cast changes, and every year someone asks the same question about what’s going on within the One Chicago universe. But [those shows] just keep going on.”
Bader pointed out that each of the Chicago shows have continued to find success, adding, “We’re thrilled with how the Chicagos do on Wednesday. We have no plans on changing anything on that night.”
Elsewhere in the One Chicago universe, Dermot Mulroney surprised fans by departing Chicago Fire — for now.
A March episode of the hit NBC series showed Pascal having his position revoked after he previously disobeyed a federal agent’s order to stand down while collecting evidence at a house fire. Pascal was arrested, but despite the federal charges against him being dropped, his position was still in jeopardy.
Pascal ultimately confirmed to Firehouse 51 that he was told to vacate the position effective immediately. Amid the big professional change, Pascal considered retiring from firefighting but then shared that a former colleague in Phoenix offered to connect him with a firehouse in Arizona. It remained unclear what choice Pascal would make about his future.
“He’s been on the ropes,” Chicago Fire showrunner Andrea Newman told NBC Insider. “[The arrest] puts him in a situation, it’s kind of a journey for him from the beginning, where he really wasn’t connected to 51 as closely as the chiefs obviously we’ve seen in the past, like Boden.”
Newman continued: “So he makes the ultimate sacrifice for his team, for all the teams really in this episode, and it sends him in a totally different and new direction at the end here. And he’s gonna have to figure out if he’s going to fight and claw to get back to 51, or if he’s now going to be on a new path altogether.”
Chicago Med airs on NBC Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET.
Sometimes Hollywood knows exactly what old flick needs an update. Sometimes, they get it oh so wrong. Thumbs up or down on these remakes and reboots?
Be sure to sign in and track your day-to-day progress. Don’t forget that you can try today’s TV Quiz if you’re in the mood for another challenge, and you’ll always find all of our current and archived quizzes here.
Tomorrow, we’re going to wrap up the week with the MGM classic, The Wizard of Oz, so be sure to come back for that.
For today’s movie challenge, we’re looking at remakes and reboots. Whether we asked for them or not, these movies put a new spin on an existing story. It’s all about thoroughly monetizing that IP, baby! Scroll down for our feature presentation.
Entertainment
Howie Mandel doubles down on awkward semi-apology after snapping at Mark Consuelos, Kelly Ripa on air
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Mandel said it’s “up to you to discern” whether or not his apology video was genuine, after he snapped at Ripa and Consuelos on “Live With Kelly and Mark.”
Howie Mandel has admitted that he has mixed feelings about apologizing to Kelly Ripa after their awkward interview on Live with Kelly and Mark.
“If somebody is offended [or] if somebody feels that I did wrong, then I apologize,” Mandel said on the Tuesday, March 31, episode of the “Hot Mics with Billy Bush” podcast. “I don’t believe in apologizing but, as I said in my post, which I kinda regret making the post, I don’t think you should apologize for a joke.”
The drama started on March 23 while Mandel was being interviewed by Ripa, 55, and her husband, Mark Consuelos, on Live. Ripa pointed out that Mandel recently celebrated his 70th birthday, before joking that his age “doesn’t make any sense.”
When Consuelos interjected that Mandel looked “great,” the comedian shot back, “I [do] look great. That doesn’t mean anything to me.”
The America’s Got Talent judge complained that he doesn’t like people commenting on his age because it always comes as “a caveat.”
“Because you tell someone you’re 70 and they go, ‘You look great,” he added.
Ripa tried to clarify that she wasn’t trying to say Mandel looked “great for 70,” before he interrupted again to declare, “It’s like saying you’re smart for a stupid person. ‘Oh, you look smart! You seem smart!’ I don’t look good.”
Mandel added later in the conversation, “Well, actually, before we go out, there’s, like, a mirror back there. … Honestly, now, I’ll be serious for a minute: I’m gorgeous. I am. I am.”
“You’re a thing of beauty,” Ripa quipped.
Howie Mandel in January 2025. Ethan Miller/Getty Images
The awkward interview clip quickly went viral, leading to Mandel making a public apology for the awkward moment a few days later.
“I have been debating for 48 hours whether I should make this post or not, and I don’t know if I’m doing the right thing,” he said via Instagram on Saturday, March 28. “Philosophically, I don’t believe that somebody who’s a comedian needs to apologize for a joke. It is a joke, it is meant as a joke, and it’s not meant to offend.”
Mandel pointed out, “You can not like it and, in all my years in the business, I haven’t ever publicly apologized for [a joke].”
Howie Mandel’s campaign with Skechers was a match made in heaven — but he took an untraditional route to get there. “I went to a Skechers store and I went to buy what I love and what I wear and what I find easy to do,” Mandel, 68, explained during an exclusive interview with Us […]
Longtime Live With Kelly and Mark executive producer Michael Gelman poked fun at the controversy by replying to Mandel’s Instagram post, writing, “During these divided times, one thing we can all agree upon is that you do look great … for your age.”
The comic has made nearly 50 appearances on Live With Kelly and Mark and its previous iterations, dating back to 1995. He often guest hosted Live with Ripa following the departure of her original cohost, the late Regis Philbin, in November 2011. (Michael Strahan and Ryan Seacrest later landed the cohosting job alongside Ripa before Consuelos joined full time in 2023.)
Entertainment
30 Years Later, the Greatest Horror Saga Ever Told Is Officially Dominating Streaming Again
The era of the once mighty slasher film has fallen on hard times. Grief-fueled horror films are all the rage, with only a few bastions of the subgenre remaining. How quickly viewers forget the seeds of the genre that celebrated blood and guts. The only slasher franchise that truly remains is Scream, the iconic series of films from the late horror director Wes Craven.
Premiering in 1996, the first Scream film was a fresh take on a trend that seemed to have lost its luster. The film starred Neve Campbell as Sidney Prescott, a new final girl for the modern era. In the town of Woodsboro, a killer in a Ghostface mask terrorizes high school students in an entertaining and meta take on the genre. Scream deconstructed these horror tropes and laid out the rules for surviving a horror film. The franchise was so successful that it outlived Craven. Now, after the seventh entry of the Scream series, it has found life again on Tubi.
‘Scream’ Fans Can Revisit Ghostface on Streaming
Scream has endured for so long because it was unlike any other horror franchise at the time. In the ‘90s, slashers like Freddy Krueger and Jason Voorhees had lost their charm. It was time for a new take on the subject, and there was no one better to address this than Wes Craven. With the help of screenwriter Kevin Williamson, who wrote zippy lines and witticisms, Scream became a smash success.
The first Scream film threw out the hallmarks of the past. Instead of one killer, there were two, and their motives were incidental. While Billy Loomis (Skeet Ulrich) blamed his murder spree on his mother leaving after Maureen Prescott’s affair with his father, it was really an excuse. Co-killer Stu Macher (Matthew Lillard) cited peer pressure as his reason for the crimes. This was a tongue-in-cheek way to acknowledge that killers didn’t need a motive to be truly heinous.
Scream set up a theme that reoccurred in the following two films of the trilogy, offering red herrings and horror cameos to drive the point home that this was not the typical franchise. The meta take on the genre continued to take on a life of its own. Just like Ghostface, Scream continues to return and only rarely disappoints.
Scream 4 was a surprise, premiering a decade after the previous film. Craven proved he had not lost his touch as the film was ahead of its time. Featuring a new cast of teenagers, the fourth film in the franchise notes the dangers of influencer culture in an extremely underrated entry. Now, 30 years after the first film, Scream remains a nostalgic pleasure for fans. Michael Myers can be a one-note killer, but Scream continues to prove it is the best of the best because it always reinvents itself.
There are, of course, no comparisons to the originals, but there is always room to deconstruct the horror genre in a new meta take. Viewers can relive the brutal kills and classic one-liners by catching the franchise on its new home, Tubi.
- Release Date
-
December 20, 1996
- Runtime
-
112 minutes
- Writers
-
Kevin Williamson
- Producers
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Bob Weinstein, Cary Woods, Cathy Konrad, Harvey Weinstein
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One Tontitown, Ark. resident said “19 Kids and Counting” star Joseph — now charged with molesting a 9-year-old girl — “seemed like a nice guy”
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