Brad Pitt shocked fans when he revealed that his seven-year stretch of sobriety had ended, but an insider is now shedding light on what reportedly convinced the actor he was ready to make such a significant change.

The 62-year-old has made it clear that his relationship with alcohol looks very different from what it once did, insisting that he now approaches drinking with strict limits.

According to someone familiar with Pitt’s thinking, however, the decision came only after years of reflection and major changes in his personal life.

5

Brad Pitt’s return to drinking was not an impulsive decision, according to a source who spoke to Page Six.

“This is a very personal decision that’s unique to Brad and his own circumstances,” the insider explained.

The source noted that seven years without alcohol gave the Oscar winner considerable time to reconsider his relationship with drinking and what approach now works for him.

“Over time, his life changed and he reached a point where he felt comfortable making a different choice,” the insider added.

For Pitt, that choice reportedly means moderation rather than returning to his previous drinking habits.

The source said he is “very conscious of his limits” and understands that drinking responsibly requires “discipline and self-awareness.”

They also pushed back against the idea that Pitt’s decision somehow erases what he accomplished while sober.

According to the insider, returning to alcohol “doesn’t take away from the years he spent sober or what he learned during that time.”

Instead, they described it as the decision Pitt believes is “right for him at this point in his life.”

Brad Pitt Admitted His New Approach Has Already Been Tested

5

The insider’s explanation comes shortly after Pitt publicly revealed the surprising change himself.

As The Blast reported, the “F1” star disclosed his new relationship with alcohol during a wide-ranging interview with Esquire.

After offering his interviewer wine at his Los Angeles home, Pitt acknowledged that he was no longer completely sober.

“I was sober for seven years. And then I got back off the wagon,” he said.

However, Pitt admitted that figuring out his new boundaries has not been completely seamless.

The actor recalled becoming “overconfident” on a couple of occasions before realizing that consuming larger quantities still wasn’t good for him.

His conclusion was straightforward. He can “have a few,” but not a lot, and now believes he has to be “professional about it.”

Pitt Once Said He Was ‘On His Knees’ When He Got Sober

5

Brad Pitt’s decision carries additional weight because of how openly he has discussed the circumstances that originally led him to sobriety.

Following his 2016 separation from Angelina Jolie, the actor began attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings and remained sober for seven years.

During a 2025 appearance on Dax Shepard’s “Armchair Expert” podcast, Pitt recalled arriving at his first AA meeting during an extremely difficult period.

“I was pretty much on my knees,” he said, explaining that he needed to “wake up” in certain areas of his life.

Pitt said the openness of the men in the group initially made him uncomfortable, but eventually became freeing.

He has also previously credited Bradley Cooper, who has publicly discussed his own long-term sobriety, with helping him get sober.

Pitt told Cooper during a 2020 awards ceremony that his fellow actor had played a meaningful role in that chapter of his life.

Brad Pitt’s Personal Life Has Changed Considerably Since 2016

5

The insider didn’t specify which changes made Pitt feel comfortable reconsidering sobriety, but his life today bears some notable differences from the one he was living when he stopped drinking.

His lengthy divorce from Jolie was finally settled in December 2024, more than eight years after their separation.

Pitt has also been dating jewelry executive Ines de Ramon since 2022. Their relationship has become increasingly serious, and the pair have made more public appearances together after initially keeping their romance relatively private.

They attended the French Open together in June and were among the celebrity guests at Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s July wedding.

Interestingly, Page Six reported that Pitt was seen drinking at the wedding weeks before his Esquire admission became public.

The sight reportedly surprised some guests who were familiar with his years of sobriety.

Pitt Recently Opened Up About Painful ‘Family Stuff’

5

Not every major change in Brad Pitt’s life has been positive.

As The Blast reported, the actor also used his Esquire interview to make a rare acknowledgment of the emotional toll his family troubles have taken.

Pitt described himself as a “congenital optimist,” but recalled one particularly painful period when he “didn’t see a way out.”

Although he emphasized that he had no intention of harming himself, Pitt admitted that the emotional pain became oppressive enough for him to understand why someone might view death as relief.

When pressed about whether that dark period involved his children, he declined to elaborate.

“Family stuff,” Pitt answered. “We could leave it at that.”

His relationship with several of the six children he shares with Jolie has become increasingly strained publicly, while the former couple’s divorce took years to resolve.

On 90 Day Fiance, Thomas Dintino freaks out about fragrance when Paula Barbosa‘s family come for a stay in his apartment. Marissa Rubinetti wants to keep it light but Edward Miguel Gomez goes deep on trust issues. It’s the morning after Catie Norboe‘s bachelorette party but Josh Atkins is the one hungover. And Debby Rolando gets some bad news concerning her intimate wedding. Let’s take a closer look in this recap of Season 12, Episode 14 On Borrowed Time.

90 Day Fiance: Thomas Dintino Lays Down the Law

On 90 Day Fiance, Thomas Dintino prefers to lay out a yoga mat rather than a welcome mat for Paula Barbosa’s family. While it’s not unreasonable to set some boundaries, he definitely comes on too strong. Paula preps for the visit by cleaning and laying out a rug for the balcony. Thomas Dintino flips when he learned the rug costs 70 dollars. Paula suggests splurging on a proper table for the guests to dine at. But Thomas is proud to set up a card table with a bunch of random chairs

Thomas Dintino whines that the table takes up the space for his yoga mat. Paula calls him selfish and he tells her she doesn’t appreciate life. Paula takes the practical route blowing up various air mattresses around the apartment. Finally, her family arrives. Thomas and Paula race to the street to greet them. Thomas begins boldly yelling in Portuguese and the multiple family members pile out of the van.

At first the family is charmed by the apartment. Until Thomas Dintino starts screaming about the rules. No soap, no perfumes, no shoes in the house. It’s awkward and uncomfortable when he brags about not spending a dime to welcome the family as well as not owning a television. Paula’s brother finds two year old expired meat in the fridge. And declares Thomas Dintino crazy. Paula is completely embarrassed by the tantrum.

90 Day Fiance: Edward Ruins a Night Out for Marissa

After a big fight in the big apple, Marissa Rubinetti and Edward Miguel Gomez are back on solid ground on 90 Day Fiance. They hold hands and laugh on the way to Barre class. Where Marissa will be the instructor. Edward comes in cocky, requesting heavier dumbbells. But Marissa warns it’s high repetition. After, he admits it was certainly much harder than he expected. They clean up the studio and plan for a night out later.

But dinner out proves tougher for Edward than Barre class. Even with a few swigs of gin and tonic. Marissa Rubinetti lays out that this night will be light and free of serious conversation. But Edward fails to comprehend and goes into a dark speech about how if she should decide to cheat or do him wrong in the future it’s on her. Marissa tells him to lower his voice and marches away from the table. So, all her doubts about the marriage are back in play.

Josh Feels Disrespected by Catie’s Latest Request

Catie Norboe behaved herself at her bride or die themed bachelorette party. She’s proud of herself and feels good enough to ride bikes and have a picnic with her 90 Day Fiance Josh Atkins. It turns out Josh is feeling the effects of drinking the night before. He watched the news and got upset and fearful about the state of immigration. He feels insecure and misses his home country and a sense of belonging.

Catie thoughtfully asks what she can do to keep his mind at ease. He’s touched. But it doesn’t take long before she bursts his bubble. She suggests she wants to be open with him about something. And of course it’s her desire to not leave her ho -life behind. In other words an open relationship. Hungover Josh is understandably upset. And reveals he wants to settle down into a good old monogamous marriage. And that he feels like she’s giving him the finger. Catie gnaws on some prosciutto and shrugs.

TLC Couple Debby and Mido Get Ready to Wed

In an effort to get closer as their wedding is just days away, Debby Rolando plans a cooking class for the couple. In her mind it will not only be an opportunity to spend time together. But will help her out at home if Mohamed “Mido” Fayed can make dinner while she works. Mido suggests he doesn’t need culinary instruction. And implies it’s Debby that oversold her cooking ability. And has only prepared french fries, tuna and eggs.

The couple begin class with the chef. Pasta and shrimp are the task at hand. But first Debby has to prepare the shrimp and rip their heads off. She’s squeamish on 90 Day Fiance. Mido taunts her and Debby bores the instructor with Mido’s engagement prank. Later, Debby gazes dreamily at Mido. She tells him she loves him “so much”. Mido looks uncomfortable. But blurts out “love you too” to Debby’s delusional delight.

It’s one day before the wedding. And Debby has to get flowers. She calls up her best friends who are in the dark about the impending nuptials. After the blow up after the haunted house, the friends aren’t really onboard with the marriage. Debby flashes her ring at them and they look disappointed. And feel even worse when she lets them know they aren’t invited. Only her son and daughter. But when her son texts to say he can’t make it, she starts to break down to them.

90 Day Fiance: Ashia Deals with Family

Ashia Montgomery is determined to follow through with her wedding to Maxwell Okeke in Nigeria. But not everyone is onboard. She shops for a dress with her future sister-in-law. Who vocalizes her concerns about Ashia wanting to change things about Maxwell. Ashia assures her she has her brother’s best interests at heart. And wants to know why she’s standing in her way when she has the life of marriage and family Ashia wants.

While Maxwell’s sister comes around and gives her support, things don’t go as well with Ashia’s own family. God brother Rod hasn’t held back. And in fact doubles down harder over dinner with Ashia Montgomery. He even brings a close family friend for back-up. Rod accuses Ashia of being “desperate to have somebody else’s last name”. And rushing to get pregnant. Ashia stands firm. But leaves when Rod angrily slaps the table to make a point. Till next time!

‘Wizards Beyond Waverly Place’ recently came to an end after two seasons. The spinoff brought back several OG ‘Wizards of Waverly Place’ cast members for its four-part finale. Selena Gomez, David Henrie, Jennifer Stone, Gregg Sulkin, and Maria Canals-Barrera all reprised their roles. However, Jake T. Austin, who played Max Russo, was noticeably missing. Now, Jake and David are sharing their sides of what happened behind the scenes.

RELATED: Raven-Symoné Confirms Production On ‘The Cheetah Girls: Next Gen’ As Disney Unveils The Official Cast (VIDEOS)

Jake T. Austin Opens Up About Being Left Out Of The ‘Wizards’ Spinoff

While ‘Wizards Beyond Waverly Place’ wrapped up with its finale, Jake T. Austin spoke out about his absence from the spinoff. Jake played Max Russo throughout the original series but never reprised his role. He revealed that he was interested in returning. Despite his disappointment, Jake showed love to his former castmates and wished them continued success. He also thanked longtime fans for their support.

“To all the Wizards fans, just wanted to say for the record how disappointed I am to have not been included in the spinoff. I was asked back in 2020 if I was interested in reprising my role and said that I was 100% in.

Unfortunately, the powers that be decided to take the show in a different direction and my character wasn’t part of the equation.

Even though I wasn’t involved, I still have nothing but love for my former castmates and wish them continued success. Thank you to all the fans who watched over the years. The show wouldn’t be what it is without your endless support.”

Advertisement

David DeLuise, who played Jerry Russo, also weighed in under Entertainment Tonight’s recap of the OG cast reunion. “Would not be over if the OG wizards were really there. Missed opportunity,” David wrote. David previously reprised his role as Jerry during the spinoff. However, he did not return for the four-part series finale.

David Henrie Responds To Jake T. Austin’s Claims

Many ‘Wizards of Waverly Place’ viewers wanted answers following Jake T. Austin’s post. Some even made their way to David Henrie’s Instagram DMs. David, who serves as an executive producer on ‘Wizards Beyond Waverly Place,’ shared DMs from fans showing love to the finale. He also shared a message questioning why Max was not included. David stated that he would’ve loved for Jake to reprise his role as Max. However, he claimed Jake declined numerous offers to return.

“I woulda loved to have Max back but sadly he didn’t accept our numerous offers to join the new show. We called him, texted, went through agents etc. I would have loved for this new generation of millions of kids to get to meet Max, but I respect his decision and wish him all the best.”

Jake T. Austin Shares More Details About Why He Didn’t Return

Later that Friday, Jake T. Austin took to his Instagram Story to explain why he ultimately declined returning to ‘Wizards.’ Jake said he first learned about the spinoff through the media in 2024. He claimed he was the only Russo family member not invited to make a cameo or visit the set during Season 1.

Jake said David eventually reached out about returning. However, he passed after feeling “dismissed” and “kept in the dark” during Season 1. “The full story from my perspective: I first met with Disney in 2020 to discuss returning as Max for what I was told was essentially going to be a continuation of the original series,” he said. 

“I only learned a spin-off was happening when it was announced in the media in October 2024. I was the only Russo family member who wasn’t invited to make a cameo appearance or visit the set by the end of s1. I was also not invited to the premiere.

I was kept in the dark about coming back until after the show wrapped s1. In April 2025 I received a DM from David asking if I would be interested in returning to the show.

By that point, I already felt dismissed for not being invited back during s1. And I wasn’t a fan of where they were taking the show in general. The whole thing felt off.

I feel like more of the OG Wizards cast should have been involved from the beginning, not just randomly appear for an episode or two, so I passed.”

RELATED: Now Sis! Social Media Sounds OFF After Video Shows Selena Gomez Kissing Benny Blanco’s Dirty Foot (WATCH)

Pregnant Anne Hathaway is keeping mum on the sex of baby no. 3.

The Oscar winner stopped by Jimmy Kimmel Live! on Monday, August 10, where guest host Anthony Anderson predicted that she and husband Adam Shulman are going to have another boy.

“I consider myself to be a baby whisperer,” Anderson, 55, told Hathaway. “Now, this is my first time seeing you pregnant and whatnot. It looks like it’s a boy. Am I correct, or you’re waiting?”

The Odyssey star, 43, responded, “We know [but] we’re not saying.”

As the studio audience cheered, Hathaway said, “Thank you for the support. It always feels so rude saying that,” adding that she “feels bad” for not sharing the baby’s sex when asked.

Hathaway was also asked about “releasing five movies and a baby” in 2026. The actress has already starred in Mother Mary, The Devil Wears Prada 2 and The Odyssey and is next set to appear in sci-fi thriller The End of Oak Street, due for release on Friday, August 14. In October, she will appear in the Colleen Hoover adaptation Verity.

The star said she feels “lucky” to have so much to look forward to this year, adding, “It’s incredible. I would never have imagined anything like this could happen. The only thing you can do is lean in, say yes, have a great time, laugh your ass off, and make some memories.”

Hathaway and Shulman’s sons, Jonathan, 10, and Jack, 6, are also excited to make some special memories with their new sibling.

Related: Pregnant Anne Hathaway Moved to Tears by Whoopi Goldberg on ‘The View’

It was a lovefest between Anne Hathaway and Whoopi Goldberg on The View on Monday, July 20. The pregnant actress stopped by the ABC daytime talk show with her Odyssey costar Matt Damon and director Christopher Nolan and was overcome with emotion when cohost Goldberg heaped praise on her. Goldberg, 70, gushed over her guests […]

“[They’re] over the moon,” the actress said. “It feels really beautiful. It feels like the family’s having a baby. I mean, it’ll feel like I’m having a baby while it’s happening, but the emotional feeling is that we’re all going to welcome this little one.”

Hathaway’s appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! Monday came the same day she shut down online speculation of a fake baby bump after sporting a stomach-baring crop top the day before.

Thank You!

You have successfully subscribed.

On Sunday, August 9, Hathaway joined her End of Oak Street costar Ewan McGregor at the film’s world premiere in Burbank, California, wearing a pale blue top and low-cut jeans.

“Fake hair, real bump 😘 ✌️🦖🔥☀️🦕😅,” Hathaway captioned an Instagram video of her getting ready for Sunday’s red carpet. “Enjoy The @endofoakstreet Block Party chaos with me as my outfit literally melts in the heat!!”

Hathaway announced her pregnancy in June via Instagram and previously joked that she and Shulman are “calling this one our buzzer-beater,” referring to the basketball term for a shot that succeeds right before the final buzzer.

Warren Hudson, Jax Pitalo & Morgan Seymour are sharing their regret following the passing of their friend, Nolan Wells.

RELATED: Teens Who Traveled With Nolan Wells Reportedly Launch Search Of Horn Island As Ben Crump Reacts To Them Hiring Trump Attorney

Warren Hudson, Jax Pitalo & Morgan Seymour Talk Life Following Passing Of Nolan Wells

On the evening of Monday, August 11, Officer Tatum released a sit-down interview with Warren Hudson, Jax Pitalo, and Morgan Seymour via his YouTube channel. Initially, the trio discussed the impact of the death of their friend, Nolan Wells, their public’s suspicion of their involvement, and the impact it has had on their lives.

Seymour noted that it feels like their life has stopped, while Pitalo added that it’s been a “flip upside down.” Specifically, Hudson noted that they’ve been unable to go out in public because their heads “are always on a swivel.”

“…I know my friends have had encounters in public. The threats have been insane,” Hudson added. “… It’s unbelievable where this has been taken to and the level of where this is at.”

As the conversation continued, the trio’s lawyer, Edward Paltzik, maintained that his clients “did nothing wrong” nor had anything to do with the passing of Nolan Wells. Still, per Hudson, he and his friends have reportedly been in situations where they felt their lives were at risk and had to leave certain locations.

Warren Hudson, Jax Pitalo & Morgan Seymour Share Regret

Around the 15-minute mark, Officer Tatum asked the group how they think things “should have played out” amid Wells’ death, and how they believe it should have been “put out to the world.”

“So, first off, I wish that none of this would have ever happened. I wish that Nolan could still be here with us today,” Pitalo explained before adding. “I feel like his mom blasting us on social media from the get-go… that’s where it first started to take off. And then also the fact that she posted a picture of me and Morgan and another guy and Nolan on the boat together, blasting that out there, pushing this narrative… I wish that would have never happened either.”

Specifically, Pitalo said that if those events had never happened, the incident wouldn’t have gone as “viral” as it did. Furthermore, Pitalo even alleged that Wells’ dad, Elmore Wonsley, has also been more familiar with him than he previously noted.

“I wish we would have never went out on the Fourth of July because I know this wouldn’t have happened. Nolan wouldn’t be gone. It’s just really hard to think about ’cause it’s like, ‘I wish I would have done this different,’… cause now one of my brothers passed away,” Hudson explained.

Still, he noted that he was the one who called the Coast Guard and informed Wells’ mom.

“I wish it wouldn’t have been reported as some type of race thing. I think it’s really bad that people are pushing the narrative… obviously, it’s not. I mean, this was like a brother to us… I wish this wasn’t pushed on the media, as ‘This is a bunch of white guys that killed a Black guy,’” he continued.

Hudson noted that “from the beginning, no one had facts.”

“I know we did everything right and nothing wrong,” Hudson added.

More On The Passing Of Nolan Wells & Investigation

As The Shade Room previously reported, the body of Nolan Wells was found on July 6, 2026. This, two days after he traveled out to Horn Island on July 4th with Warren Hudson, Jax Pitalo, and Morgan Seymour.  Over a month later, questions remain about why the teen allegedly remained on Horn Island when his friends left. Additionally, questions remain on whether he drowned or was murdered.

At this point, the results of the state’s official autopsy and toxicology report remain sealed. Furthermore, an independent autopsy conducted by the Wells family remains inconclusive. Nonetheless, a legal defense campaign has been launched by Hudson, Pitalo, and Seymour as answers in the case remain awaited. Most recently, Dr. Umar has shared his thoughts on the investigation thus far.

RELATED: Dr. Umar Says Ben Crump & Rev. Al Sharpton’s Approach To Investigation Into Death Of Nolan Wells Has Been “Too Soft” (VIDEO)

When getting dressed starts to feel like a game of tug-of-war with clingy fabrics and awkward fits, the right top can make all the difference. The best styles skim in all the right places, create a flattering silhouette and make you feel polished the moment you slip them on—no more feeling like you’re adjusting your shirt all day.

We rounded up 13 of the most flattering Amazon tops for women over 45 who want a little extra coverage through the midsection without sacrificing style. From breezy tunics and flowy blouses to elevated everyday tees and waist-defining silhouettes, these picks will boost your confidence and keep you comfortable.

Flattering, Flowy Amazon Tops for Women Over 45

1. Eyelet Charm: This airy eyelet blouse makes getting dressed feel effortless. The peplum-inspired ruffle hem creates beautiful movement, while the loose silhouette offers an easy, flattering fit that never feels restrictive. Wear the button-front style on its own or layer it over a tank for even more outfit possibilities.

2. Breezy Batwing: Think of this flowy batwing-sleeve top as your favorite T-shirt’s elevated cousin. The drapey shape offers plenty of room through the middle, the stitched detailing adds subtle polish and the breezy three-quarter sleeves provide just the right amount of arm coverage.

3. Sweet Swiss Dots: Delicate Swiss dots, crochet lace trim and airy sleeves give this loose-fitting blouse boutique-worthy appeal. It has that easy boho vibe that instantly dresses up jeans, white denim or tailored shorts without trying too hard.

4. Floaty Favorite: Searching for something polished that’s still super comfortable? This lightweight chiffon blouse checks every box. It’s fully lined to prevent show-through, and the pleated hem creates graceful movement that skims over the midsection with ease.

5. Pretty Pleats: Functional buttons and lantern-inspired puff sleeves give this relaxed blouse a timeless feel. Soft pleating through the body keeps the silhouette comfortably loose, making it an easy pick for lunch dates and office days alike.

6. Date Night Drama: When the occasion calls for something a little dressier, reach for this romantic chiffon blouse. The mock neckline, asymmetrical ruffle hem and fluttery open sleeves create beautiful movement, giving the entire look an elegant, confidence-boosting finish.

7. Romantic Ruffles: This flowy off-the-shoulder blouse brings just the right amount of drama. A ruffled neckline frames the shoulders beautifully, then flows into pretty lantern sleeves. The relaxed hem falls comfortably at the hips for an effortlessly flattering fit.

8. Coastal Classic: Equal parts cozy and chic, this oversized cotton-blend tunic looks like something you’d pack for a weekend by the water. The boat neckline feels timeless, and the split hem lets it move with you so it never clings.

9. Everyday Knit: A good tunic sweater earns its spot in every closet, and this ribbed knit is no exception. The drapey fit pairs perfectly with leggings, jeans or shorts, and the longer length offers extra coverage without sacrificing style.

10. Cool-Girl Denim: Every wardrobe needs an oversized denim button-down, and this one delivers with a relaxed, shirt-dress-inspired silhouette. Raw distressed edges, roomy drop shoulders and handy side pockets give it that effortlessly cool, lived-in feel.

11. Waist-Defining Wonder: This sweatshirt-inspired tee makes casual outfits look instantly more intentional. The modern tie detail gently defines the waist. Soft cotton-blend fabric, dropped shoulders and a relaxed fit all keep it comfortable for everyday wear.

12. Chic Stripes: Classic stripes never disappoint, especially on an oversized knit like this one. Batwing sleeves and comfy dropped shoulders create an easy silhouette that’s relaxed but still polished, making it a staple you’ll reach for year-round.

13. Lace Layers: Warm-weather dressing doesn’t get much prettier than this breezy boho tank. Swiss dot fabric and delicate floral lace straps give it a feminine touch, and the flowy shape looks just as cute worn solo in summer as it does layered under a cardigan come fall.

UsNow Summer Sale Alert: These Chic Fashion Finds are over 30% off – Plus Free Shipping

Welcome to summer with our biggest sale of the year. This summer’s chicest dresses, tops and swimsuits are all over 30% + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they’re gone.

Shop the UsNow Summer Sale –>

Related: 21 Flattering V-Neck Tops That Elongate Your Silhouette — From $8

There’s a reason why V-neck tops and tees never go out of style. The universally flattering neckline draws the eye upward to subtly highlight your features and create the illusion of a long, lean silhouette. Whether you’re getting dressed for a casual day out or pulling together a polished look, these face-framing tops have details […]