Entertainment
Why Star Trek’s Attempt To Win Over Younger Audiences Is Doomed To Fail
By Chris Snellgrove
| Published

Starfleet Academy is Star Trek’s newest show, and it is aimed squarely at a younger audience than any live-action franchise show before it. Paramount’s goal with this series is quite simple: while appealing to older fans, they are hoping these young characters and their various onscreen antics will reach Generation Z, effectively growing what has become an older and somewhat stagnant fanbase. Unfortunately, these efforts are doomed for a simple reason: the humor in Starfleet Academy is written by Millennials who are patently terrible at writing for a Zoomer audience.
There has been extensive criticism of the language used in Starfleet Academy because these 32nd-century characters talk exactly like 21st-century Zoomers. Cadets constantly refer to each other as “bruh” and “b*tch,” instructors refer to annoying situations as “dumpster fires,” the digital dean talks about cadets getting hangry, and so on. Such dialogue is completely different than in any previous Trek show, and it’s paired with youth-centric plots about getting drunk, hooking up, and pulling pranks on rival students.
The Failed Defense of Starfleet Academy

Whenever anyone criticizes any of this, defenders will usually dust off one of two different arguments. The first (one even Robert Picardo has used) is that, because these characters are so young, we should expect them to speak and act very differently from the trained and seasoned Starfleet officers we have seen onscreen before. The second defense is that we should respect that Paramount is trying to appeal to a new audience, which is important because the primary Star Trek fandom ain’t getting any younger.
Historically, Starfleet Academy critics like myself have focused on the absurdity of the first defense; for example, it’s fine to have younger characters speak more unprofessionally than their older peers, but that doesn’t explain why these 32nd-century characters inexplicably talk like characters from the 21st century. Today’s Zoomers speak very differently from their parents and other older people, but that doesn’t mean they are dusting off slang from 1,100 years ago. However, it’s well past time we dissect the problem with the second defense: namely, that Paramount is doing all of this to create younger Star Trek fans.
Bursting Fanboys’ Bubble

The essential problem with Starfleet Academy’s writers trying to script Zoomer-style dialogue is that a Millennial-led writing staff will never be able to convincingly write like younger people. Pretty much any attempt to do this results in instant cringe. Unfortunately, most of the worst humor in this new Star Trek show comes from older writers trying to create convincing Zoomer dialogue by badly recycling Millennial humor and calling it a day.
For example, one of the clunkier lines from the first episode of Starfleet Academy is Darem’s “I’m Khionian, b*tch.” Ever ask yourself why this really sounds so out of place coming out of this young actor’s mouth? It’s because this kind of dialogue was popularized by Britney Spears (“it’s Britney, b*tch!”) back in 2007, before most Millennials quoting Britney had gotten their first smartphone.
Star Trek Does The Time Warp (Again)

In the most recent episode of Starfleet Academy, the digital dean, voiced by Stephen Colbert, uses the phrase “morning wood” before chuckling in pleasure at his own penis reference. For context, morning wood jokes were at their (ahem) peak in the ‘90s, with Office Space featuring “the Morningwood Condominiums” and Beavis and Butt-Head featuring an episode called “The Mystery of Morning Wood.” Forget appealing to Zoomers, this gag was written by and for the same Millennials that laughed along with Beavis and Butt-Head, which is likely why that same episode has a bizarre punchline featuring a farting fish.
My point is simple: Starfleet Academy has a writer’s room full of Millennials (including Lower Decks legend Tawny Newsome), and they are trying to appeal to younger viewers by including what Millennials liked when they were younger. That’s why bad guys like Nus Braka speak like ‘90s action villains (“Payback’s a b*tch!”) and the good guys are nerds trying to win prank wars with bullies (it’s basically Revenge Of The Nerds in space). This is why Chancellor Ake is hundreds of years old and often acts like a child: she’s an eternal reminder of the Millennial mantra that adulting is hard, guys!
Star Trek’s Comeback Has Already Failed

This is why Starfleet Academy’s attempt to appeal to younger viewers is ultimately doomed to fail. Actual Zoomers will reject all of this Millennial humor in a heartbeat; in fact, it wasn’t that long ago that Zoomers on TikTok were relentlessly mocking Millennial comedy for being so old and out of touch. Meanwhile, older audiences (like the Millennial-hating Boomers who keep Paramount staples like NCIS on the air) will instantly reject youth humor of any stripe, especially when it involves characters vomiting glitter like a background character in an anime (yes, this really happened!).
As for actual Millennials, most of us are still put off by Starfleet Academy’s humor because it feels completely out of place in Star Trek. Literally no fan my age has ever taken a look at the franchise and decided everything would be much better if it were written by people who thought The Office was the funniest thing ever written. Unfortunately, all the writers of this new spinoff can give us is tired vulgarity and try-hard quirks that might have been funny back before the freakin’ housing crisis.
Paramount may still get the last laugh and attract a legion of young viewers, but that’s unlikely: recently, Starfleet Academy quietly slipped out of the Top 10 rankings on Paramount+. As it turns out, writing that pisses off both older and younger viewers is not the recipe for creating a winning new show. I’d love to point this out to the writing staff, but I dare not; after all, who knows what kind of sick, therapy-coded 30 Rock meme they would slap back with in response?
Entertainment
Chris Brown Throws Shade at Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl 60 Halftime Show
Chris Brown made his feelings clear about Bad Bunny’s halftime show at Super Bowl 60 on Sunday, February 8.
“I THINK IT’S SAFE TO SAY.. THEY NEED ME!! 😏,” Brown, 36, posted via his Instagram Story at the conclusion of Bad Bunny’s performance.
The Puerto Rican rapper’s show was an energetic celebration of his Puerto Rican roots, featuring cameos from Lady Gaga, Ricky Martin, Pedro Pascal, Jessica Alba, Karol G and more.
Bad Bunny being selected as Super Bowl halftime performer drew a broad spectrum of reactions after it was announced in September 2025.
One of the first to criticize the choice was former NASCAR driver Danica Patrick, who complained about Bad Bunny performing in Spanish.
“Oh fun,” Patrick, 42, wrote via X. “No songs in English should not be allowed at one of America’s highest rated television events of the year … not just for sports.”
Patrick doubled down on her criticism days later during an appearance on Steve Bannon’s “War Room” podcast.

“The Super Bowl is the most highly-watched show that we have on television in the whole year,” Patrick said. “127 million people are estimated to watch it. It’s the crown jewel on television and in sports, in particular. It’s where we come together as a country. We enjoy it, we have parties, we love watching the halftime performance. We know we love to sing along to the halftime performance and it’s usually one of those that’s very versatile across so many different age ranges.”
She continued, “I don’t have any problem with someone performing at halftime that is not from the United States, although Bad Bunny is technically a citizen because he was born in Puerto Rico,” she continued. “He wasn’t necessarily born in America. I don’t care where you’re actually born. What I care about is that I can sing along to the music. His music is almost nothing in English. I don’t think it will be as much fun. I don’t think it will be as uniting. What I would hate to see is that it would divide us again, in yet another way.”

Bad Bunny performs onstage during the Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show at Levi’s Stadium on February 08, 2026 in Santa Clara, California. Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
Pro football Hall of Famer Eric Dickerson bashed the selection of Bad Bunny, though he admitted he was unfamiliar with the rapper.
“I don’t even know who the hell the guy is. I’ve never heard of him,” Dickerson, 65, told TMZ in October 2025. “I’m not that big into music. What’s his name? What the hell does Bad Bunny sing? I don’t know one of [his] songs.”
Dickerson added, “Keep his ass in Puerto Rico.”
Despite some major pushback, Bad Bunny had plenty of A-list supporters in his corner, including Jennifer Lopez.
“I think he’s about to blow everybody’s mind,” Lopez, 56, said during an October appearance on the Today show. “It’s an introduction to some people.”
When asked about the backlash, Lopez added, “I don’t understand that. He’s one of the top artists in the world right now, probably the top.”
Entertainment
Wendy Williams’ Father Passes At 94, Family Shares Tribute
Roommates, our hearts go out to Wendy Williams and her family during this incredibly difficult time. The media personality is grieving the passing of her father, Thomas Williams Sr., and fans have been sending love and prayers to the Williams family. Wendy’s niece and goddaughter, Alex Finnie, shared the news on Instagram with a heartfelt tribute, giving followers a glimpse into the life and legacy of Thomas Sr.
RELATED: Social Media Mourns Nathan Smith As Lil Jon & Family Share Emotional Tributes Amid Investigation (VIDEO)
Wendy Williams’ Dad Remembered In Touching Family Tribute
In her post, Alex Finnie shared a touching montage of photos and videos, writing, “It is with an extremely heavy heart that I share — after 94 years of extraordinary love, strength, brilliance, and wisdom, my grandfather Thomas D. Williams has passed.” She went on to celebrate her grandfather’s life as an author, educator, and devoted family man, noting how he poured into both his family and the community. Alex’s post closed with a tender message: “I miss him tremendously. I’m a little lost for words right now, but I love you endlessly Papa. Give Nana a kiss for me.”
Support Pours In For Wendy Williams Online
Once the news hit, fans ran straight to The Shade Room’s Instagram comments to send Wendy Williams love and support. Many remembered how heartbroken she was when her mom passed and hoped she has the strength to get through this loss as well. Others flooded the comments with prayers and condolences. Meanwhile, a few couldn’t help but point out how Wendy is literally her father’s twin.
One Instagram user @chantestory said, “94 is a long life I can only wish 🥹🙏🏽 prayers to the family“
This Instagram user @mstriniqueen2000 shared, “Awwww. Wendy LOVESSSSS her daddy so much…R.I.P 😢”
And, Instagram user @mrslove305 added, “My condolences. Wendy went off the deep end when her Mom passed. I hope that she is surrounded by love during this difficult time.“
Meanwhile, Instagram user @44.pr1nc3ssa commented, “Awee he lived a Long Healthy life Rest in Peace Heavenly Angel ❤️”
While Instagram user @yourkidsfavoritestepmama wrote, “He made sure his baby girl was ok before he left this crazy world 🙏🏾🙏🏾”
Finally, Instagram user @allie.cherie commented, “her twin omg“
Wendy Shares Sweet Moment With Brother Tony Recently
It looks like Wendy Williams is leaning on family these days. In a new Instagram post, Wendy’s brother Thomas Williams shared a sweet family moment with her and another possible relative. Captioning the photo simply ‘FAMILY,’ along with a red heart emoji. Tommy showed love as Wendy smiled into the camera while embracing her brother, their matching grins lighting up the frame. Wendy rocked her signature blonde hair and red lipstick, pairing a black leather jacket with a blue-and-white flannel underneath and a black handbag, keeping her iconic style even in these intimate family snaps.
RELATED: You Thought! Wendy Williams’ Ex-Husband’s Guardianship Lawsuit Gets Tossed By Judge
What Do You Think Roomies?
Entertainment
Mac Jones Shrugs Off 49ers’ Substation Conspiracy, ‘I Can’t Hear The Buzz’
Mac Jones
I’m Not Buzzing Over Substation Conspiracy
Published
TMZSports.com
Mac Jones isn’t exactly buying into the 49ers’ viral practice facility conspiracy … but he’s not completely brushing it off either!
The San Francisco backup QB talked with TMZ Sports about the chatter tying the team’s nearby electrical substation to their injury history … a theory that’s picked up steam online and even sparked quiet locker room curiosity over the years.
Some have speculated electromagnetic fields from the power station by Levi’s Stadium could be messing with players’ bodies, but there’s been zero scientific proof backing it.
Jones kept things pretty chill when asked about it … saying he hasn’t personally noticed anything strange since joining the team.
“I haven’t been there long enough,” Jones said, “but I think there’s something to studying it and at least finding out if it’s good or bad, but I don’t feel any different.”
He even poked fun at one of the conspiracy’s more out-there claims — that players can supposedly hear electrical buzzing near the facility.
“I can’t hear the buzz,” he said. “Maybe some of the guys who have been there for a minute, but not me.”
For those who may be drinking the tea … neither of the Super Bowl teams is practicing at the Niners’ facility.
Jones also made it clear he’s not exactly a tin-foil-hat kinda guy when it comes to conspiracy theories in general.
“Honestly, no,” he said. “I’ll entertain them, but I don’t believe any weird ones.”
While speculation continues to swirl around the Niners — fueled in part by the team’s recent injury stretches — Jones sounds locked in on football, not power grids.
“I’m happy where I’m at,” he added. “I love the 49ers and I want to keep winning and having fun.”
Safe to say Mac’s focused on reading defenses … not radiation levels.
Entertainment
Boy with Grammy in Bad Bunny Super Bowl halftime show was not child captured by ICE
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The internet was rife with speculation after the Puerto Rican superstar gifted a recently-won Grammy to a young boy during his halftime performance.
Entertainment
Celebrate Jennifer Aniston’s Birthday With These Products on Amazon
Jennifer Aniston Turns 57 🎂
Hair That Launched a Thousand Layers
🥳 Shop Her Product Lines
Published
TMZ may collect a share of sales or other compensation from links on this page.
Jennifer Aniston is just ageless … seriously.
The only thing that’s changed is the number of candles on her birthday cake — a milestone that happens to be today. While we may not have access to her fountain of youth, we’ve gathered some of her fav products that keep her looking (and smelling) flawless.
From her award-winning haircare line, LolaVie, to her signature scent, Solstice Bloom, we’ve got what you need to get inspired in honor of Jen’s 57th bday.
TMZ CHEAT SHEET: Celebrate Jen’s Bday With These Beauty Finds
LolaVie Restorative Shampoo & Conditioner Set
Jennifer is known for her iconic hair (remember the Rachel?) so it only makes sense that she’s sharing her haircare secrets.
This LolaVie Restorative Shampoo & Conditioner Set is all about nourishing your locks and bond-building to help repair the look of damage while protecting against breakage. With a formulation that gently cleanses, you’ll have softer, smoother and more manageable hair.
LolaVie Glossing Detangler
The award-winning LolaVie Glossing Detangler is the multitasking product you need in your routine. It’s a detangler, heat protectant, frizz fighter, shine enhancer, and hydrator … all in one.
Just spray onto wet or towel-dried hair and comb through. Then style as usual for a smooth, polished finish.
Jennifer always has the perfect blowout and that’s in part due to the LolaVie Perfecting Leave-In.
This do-it-all leave-in conditioner is powered by Rose of Jericho, a superfruit complex and LolaVie’s signature B-Pro3 bond technology to transform strands for dramatically smoother, stronger, effortlessly perfect hair.
LolaVie Restorative Conditioner
The LolaVie Restorative Conditioner is here to give your hair the moisture it craves, according to Jennifer herself.
It leaves her locks “soft, shiny and full of life” and isn’t that the vibe we’re all going for? Formulated with super grains, pea peptides, a superfruit complex and LolaVie’s signature B-Pro3 bond technology, it’s everything your hair deserves and more.
You may not know what Jennifer actually smells like … but it’s probably a lot like her Solstice Bloom Eau de Parfum. This intimate and invigorating scent is perfect for both day and night.
For those that love woody floral scents, this perfume brings warmth with its notes of gardenia and jasmine petals as well as golden sand accord and sheer white musk. Plus, its sleek and simple bottle will look perfect no matter where you display it.
Solstice Bloom Fragrance Mist
If you already love Jennifer’s signature scent, then expand your collection with the Solstice Bloom Fragrance Mist.
This gentle mist can be sprayed all-over for full body coverage and is ideal for those wanting a fresh and subtle fragrance. Plus, it’s packaged in a convenient size for easy application at home or on the go.
This Friends Classic Logo T-Shirt is an absolute necessity for any fan. Featuring the show’s iconic logo, you can wear your fandom loud and proud.
And what better way to celebrate Jennifer’s birthday? Available in a variety of colors and sizes, there’s sure to be a combo that’ll fit right in with your wardrobe.
Could this Friends Tote be any cuter?? Featuring iconic images from the show’s ten seasons, including Rachel’s memorable peephole frame, you’ll be reminded of all your favorite episodes.
Plus, it’s spacious enough for all of your belongings, including your laptop, headphones, water bottle … and everything else you need on the go!
Go back to where it all began with this Central Perk Mug. While you may not actually be sipping lattes with the whole gang, you can certainly feel like you are!
Emblazoned with the coffee shop’s recognizable logo, this subtle nod to your favorite series is a fun way to pay tribute to Jennifer on her bday.
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Entertainment
Bad Bunny Dances With Lady Gaga During Super Bowl 2026 Halftime Show
Bad Bunny invited some friends to join him on stage during his 2026 Super Bowl halftime show performance — but Lady Gaga made the biggest splash.
Gaga, 39, sang a new version of “Die With a Smile” (her collaboration with Bruno Mars) while taking the stage at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on Sunday, February 8, as the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots competed in the big game. After her surprise performance, Gaga stuck around for a quick dance routine with Bad Bunny, 31.
Gaga’s appearance comes after she and Bad Bunny had a sweet moment at the 2026 Grammy Awards on Sunday, February 1.
“She said, ‘I love you!’ And that’s it,” Bad Bunny told Access Hollywood about crossing paths with Gaga at the awards show. “And I was like, ‘I love you too!’”
But that wasn’t the only trick he had up his sleeve. The Puerto Rico native included Pedro Pascal, Karol G, Alix Earle, Cardi B, Jessica Alba and Ricky Martin in his performance as well.

Lady Gaga and Bad Bunny perform during Super Bowl LX Patriots vs Seahawks Apple Music Halftime Show at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California on February 8, 2026. Patrick T. Fallon / AFP via Getty Images
News broke in September 2025 that Bad Bunny would headline the Super Bowl LX halftime show.
“What I’m feeling goes beyond myself,” he said in a statement at the time. “It’s for those who came before me and ran countless yards so I could come in and score a touchdown … this is for my people, my culture and our history. Ve y dile a tu abuela, que seremos el HALFTIME SHOW DEL SUPER BOWL.”
Before taking the reins himself, Bad Bunny made a surprise appearance during Jennifer Lopez and Shakira’s Super Bowl halftime show in 2020. At the time, he and Shakira, 49, performed his hit “I Like It” before singing a mash-up of her song “Chantaje” and his track “Callaítia.”
Lopez, 56, and Shakira both showed their support for Bad Bunny after he was announced as the 2026 halftime show headliner.
“I think he’s about to blow everybody’s mind,” Lopez raved on the Today show in October 2025. “It’s an introduction to some people.”
Lopez went on to say that she didn’t “understand” the backlash to Bad Bunny’s involvement in the halftime show, noting, “He’s one of the top artists in the world right now, probably the top.”

“It could be a lot of different people. That’s the thing,” she explained. “I’m super excited for people to see him. I think they’ll be pleasantly surprised because his music transcends language. It’s amazing what he’s done. He’s done something that a lot of people have never done in their life.”
Lopez also reflected on her own Super Bowl performance with Bad Bunny and Shakira.
“Me, Shakira, Bad Bunny, J Balvin — and we had an amazing time,” she recalled. “It was a really cultural moment.”
Later that month, Shakira shared her enthusiasm over Bad Bunny helming the halftime show.
“It’s about time!” she told Variety. “I remember when we did ours that even having part of our set in Spanish was a bold move. … Acceptance of Spanish-language music as part of the mainstream has come so far from when I started. I hope and like to think that all the times my music was met with resistance or puzzlement from the English-speaking world before it was embraced helped forge the path to where we are now.”
As for Bad Bunny’s performance, Shakira felt the timing was right for him to bring his talents to the Super Bowl.
“I’m so proud that Bad Bunny, who represents not only Latin culture but also how important Spanish language music has become on a global scale and how universal it has become, is getting to perform on the biggest stage in the world,” she continued. “It’s the perfect moment for a performance like this. I can’t wait to watch it.”
Entertainment
Bethenny Frankel Not Returning For ‘RHONY’ Reunion To ‘Protect My Peace’
A majority of the original cast members from Bravo’s “Real Housewives of New York” plan to reunite on a rival network for a new series titled “The Golden Life, except for Bethenny Frankel.
Bethenny Frankel starred in “Real Housewives of New York” seasons 1 through 3 before returning for seasons 7 through 11. Since departing the series, Frankel has been open about her frustration with the show and even got into a public argument with host and Bravo figurehead Andy Cohen.
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Bethenny Frankel Is Not Returning To The ‘RHONY’ Reunion
Bethenny Frankel says she has made a conscious effort to protect her peace, which is why she would not be part of the new The Golden Life series featuring the OG #RHONY women, though she did confirm she was asked.
Jill Zarin then addressed Bethenny’s comments about the show,… pic.twitter.com/74tMdRPxCY
— Bye Wig Hello Drama (@HousewivesHub) February 8, 2026
In a video shared online, Frankel discussed the upcoming spin-off, “Golden Life,” which is set to air on E!. “I’m so happy for the women, and I’m happy for [the network],” she said, calling the move “disruptive” and “business.”
As for her participation in the series, Frankel told her followers to count her out. “So, I have made a conscious effort to protect my peace,” she said. “I’m really happy, I’m really settled.”
The “Bethenny” host said she’s been approached about doing other shows, but she’s declined because she’s not “interested” in taking on work that would “take time away from protecting my peace.”
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Bethenny Frankel Clarifies That She Was Asked To Join The ‘RHONY’ Reboot

According to a previous report from The Blast, Jill Zarin, Kelly Bensimon, Luann de Lesseps, Ramona Singer, and Sonja Morgan will join forces for an epic new series, years after their departure from the “RHONY.”
The new series will be filmed in Florida, and the synopsis teased fun and drama.
“In this new ‘golden’ era of life, the longtime friends are thriving in and around Palm Beach with fabulous second homes and a bustling social scene. With their signature humor and non-stop hijinks, the series will follow the group as they navigate dating, family, and career milestones,” it read before sharing the group would have to face “unresolved drama” from years prior.
In her video, Frankel said she was asked to join the series but declined because the “specific formula” doesn’t work best for her.
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Bethenny Frankel Wants The New ‘RHONY’ Reunion To Succeed

While she remains separate from the project, Frankel conveyed her excitement and hopes for the success of those involved.
Cohen, too, spoke about his excitement for the women, admitting that while they weren’t working with Bravo, he was “so excited for them.”
Elaborating on his radio show, according to The Blast, Cohen said the series would be “great” and that he held no hard feelings against them.
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Frankel Has Previously Slammed The ‘Real Housewives’ Franchise
I think we need more stories about women trashing women…Or….we can publish a book about it? Is that a good idea? #2021 PS. I’ve had my regrettable moments but capitalizing on our weaknesses? That’s “rich”….literally #WomenSupportingWomen lol
— Bethenny Frankel (@Bethenny) October 26, 2021
Since exiting the “Real Housewives” franchise, Frankel has frequently voiced her strong opinions regarding the series. In 2021, she slammed the franchise’s tell-all book, “Not All Diamonds and Rosé,” for “trashing women.”
In a separate interview, Frankel implied that the franchise’s ratings were slipping because of the show’s confrontational nature.
“The ratings overall in television have never been higher and perhaps the ratings on ‘Real Housewives’ aren’t doing well because it’s sort of not maybe the content that is inspiring people to do what they need to do right now,” she said. “Or maybe they want to watch the news or something uplifting or some way to pay it forward.”
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Frankel And Cohen Got Into It Over Previous Comments

In 2022, Frankel debuted her “ReWives” podcast and announced she’d be revisiting prior seasons of “RHONY.”
When Frankel texted Cohen about the series when it launched, the mother of one said Cohen replied, allegedly saying he was “glad to see you embracing the Housewives.”
His comments seemed at odds with what he said about Frankel on an episode of “Watch What Happens Live,” where he noted her history of criticizing the series as “toxic.”
Frankel clapped back at Cohen, saying she’s allowed to have strong feelings about the series and also be thankful for the opportunities it afforded her.
“I’m glad that I’m not there [but] I also do get the right to talk about because I did it for a quarter of my life,” she said.
Entertainment
Mark Ruffalo and Anne Hathaway’s 89% RT True-Crime Thriller Feels Even More Chilling 7 Years Later
Todd Haynes remains an acclaimed figure within the arthouse film community for his powerful romantic and sociological dramedies. Between the intimate romance of his period drama Carol to the scandalous melodrama of his dark comedy May December, Haynes has succeeded in crafting highly personal character studies that feel like slices of life. He’s also set to finally begin work on De Noche, a film that suffered setbacks when Joaquin Phoenix left shortly before filming and has since added Pedro Pascal in his wake. Haynes is inarguably one of the most important filmmakers of his generation, but he’s not necessarily someone who is associated with genre thrillers. However, Haynes showed a completely different side of his storytelling skills with the psychological thriller Dark Waters.
Drawing from a recent real-life event of a public health crisis, Haynes crafted a powerful and timely thriller that speaks to the horrors of corporate greed. The specificity in crafting period pieces that he perfected within his romantic dramas ended up giving him the experience needed to make an eerie parallel to recent events. Dark Waters is a film about a lurking danger that has been covered up by the powers that be. While it is by no means an easy film to watch, Dark Waters is a powerful true crime thriller with excellent performances by Mark Ruffalo and Anne Hathaway.
What Is ‘Dark Waters’ About?
Set in 1998, Dark Waters examines the revelation of the DuPont scandal, which revealed that one of the nation’s most powerful chemical manufacturing corporations was responsible for polluting the environment. Rather than beginning with the crisis’ origins, the film is told from the perspective of the corporate defense lawyer Robert Bilott (Ruffalo), whose expertise is in business malpractice and legal minutiae. While he knows very little about criminal law and would not normally take on a case involving environmental damage, Bilott agrees to look into a series of unexplained animal deaths in Parkersburg, West Virginia, at the behest of farmer Wilbur Tennant (Bill Camp). A series of investigations leads him to discover that the chemicals being dumped in the area are unregulated by the EPA, which would point to a larger conspiracy linked to a corporation capable of covering up its crimes.
While the evidence that Bilott uncovers is horrifying, Haynes treats the dissemination of information like a procedural thriller. It becomes compelling based on how new information changes Bilott’s mind. Initially, he disregards the complaints that the locals have, believing their animosity to be nothing but a half-hearted way of justifying their misfortune. However, the steady revelation of evidence leads Bilott to slowly become more invested in the case. It becomes evident that the generations of pollution committed by DuPont go beyond corporate indifference, as there appears to be a malicious intention behind their targeting of rural communities. Haynes does a great job of showing why the farmers of Parkersburg are particularly vulnerable to these issues. Without a champion like Bilott on their side, the community would not have the resources to raise awareness about what is happening.
‘Dark Waters’ Is an Inventive Psychological Thriller
Much of Dark Waters takes place in boardrooms and corporate offices as Bilott conducts research and analyzes years of testimonies, video evidence, and contracts. While this level of specificity on the legal front could have made for a dull narrative, Haynes incorporates an aspect of psychological dread based on Bilott’s race against time. As he begins to understand that pollution has a devastating impact on the human body, Bilott realizes that the lives of the people he has been representing hang in the balance. This shifts the stakes of the film from economic to personal, with Bilott transforming into a more selfless character based on the years he has spent dedicated to the case. It’s implied that by fighting on their behalf, Bilott has been accepted by the community of Parkersburg.
As inspiring as Bilott’s journey is, Dark Waters is both infuriating and timely in its deconstruction of DuPont’s practices. Haynes brilliantly shows how antiquated legal policies have led DuPont to shift the blame for the pollution to different parties, leading to an endless chase to find the real culprit. Revelations about the extent of the cover-up made by Bilott inspire powerful moments of righteous anger. On a narrative level, this works in making Ruffalo’s excellent performance even more compelling. Additionally, it may inspire viewers to take a deeper look at the real case that the film is based on.
Todd Haynes Made ‘Dark Waters’ At the Right Time
The DuPont scandal underscores broader issues regarding corporate accountability, regulatory oversight, and the prioritization of profit over public health and environmental protection. It’s a cautionary tale that reflects systemic failures and highlights the challenges in addressing environmental injustices, particularly in communities disproportionately affected by pollution. Todd Haynes recognized that the relevance of environmental issues in society fueled the creation of Dark Waters. In an interview with Collider, Haynes opened up about the timeliness of his project:
“Sometimes there’s a sort of a zeitgeist that almost beckons projects to come to the fore at the time they do. There’s something in the air that makes them necessary to happen when they happen. And I do feel like just the environmental issues our country is confronting…and the ways that our regulatory system has so catered to the needs of industry; how much money and big business have dominated our economy. These are all things that make this an incredibly relevant story to tell.”
The success of Dark Waters serves as a compelling testament to Haynes’ timeliness on the project. However, it also underscores the persistent lackluster response from society towards environmental concerns. The film ultimately turns a critical eye on corporate malfeasance, but packages it in the form of a star-studded thriller.
Mark Ruffalo and Anne Hathaway Elevate ‘Dark Waters’
In one of his most underrated performances, Ruffalo combines the professionalism and passion that make Bilott a compelling character. While he does not initially characterize Bilott as haughty or arrogant, he suggests that the character is rather indifferent about the clients he represents, as they really only serve to benefit him economically. However, Ruffalo does a great job of showing how draining the case is for Bilott on a personal level. He’s been taught to be obsessive about discovering evidence, which becomes unhealthy when he applies it to all aspects of his life. The dignity and earnestness that Ruffalo brings to the role is the perfect tribute to a real-life hero.
While it’s not a hugely substantial role, Hathaway gives an impactful performance that transcends the typical “wife” part. Bilott’s wife Sarah is not only critical in reminding the viewer of their humble origins, but essential in caring for him when he puts himself in physical danger. As the case reaches its inflection point, Bilott collapses from overworking himself, forcing Sarah to come to his aid. Hathaway’s heartbroken explanation of her husband’s efforts in a hospital room is among the film’s most heartbreaking moments.
A real story as critical as the DuPont scandal deserves attention, but Dark Waters is more than a standard “issues” movie. It’s a fully fleshed-out psychological thriller that speaks to the horrors of powers being unmonitored. Thanks to the prestigious direction by Haynes and emotionally authentic performances, Dark Waters is a powerful indictment of corruption that highlights a critical ongoing subject.
What Happened to DuPont After the Events of ‘Dark Waters’?
Dark Waters ends with Bilott winning three successive cases against DuPont, leading the manufacturing company to settle an additional 3,500 cases for $671 million. However, DuPont continued to face economic setbacks during the release of Dark Waters. After an all-stock merger with the Dow Chemical Company in 2015, DuPont spun off into its own company in 2015. The company’s stock continued to plummet in the aftermath of Bilott’s revelations about the use of “forever chemicals” and in 2022, the state of California sued the company for its role in manufacturing airborne pollutants after multi-year investigations were conducted.
DuPont executives may have objected to their characterization in Dark Waters, but the real Bilott continues to be at the forefront of environmental activism. In addition to taking part in promotional events for the film alongside Ruffalo, Billott received a degree as an Honorary Doctor of Science from The Ohio State University’s Environmental Science Graduate Program for his continued efforts to raise awareness about corporate pollution.
What Did Todd Haynes Add to ‘Dark Waters’?
Todd Haynes was an interesting choice to direct Dark Waters, as it seems somewhat surprising that the director behind elaborate melodrama like Carol and Velvet Goldmine would be interested in a straightforward biographical drama about a criminal and corporate investigation. Although it easily could have felt like a “hired hand” job in which Haynes was simply hired to work on a studio project that he had little passion for, Dark Waters benefits from the meticulous direction of a filmmaker well-aware of the place and era he is capturing.
One of the most compelling aspects of Haynes’ style is his ability to capture the mood of a certain period. In the same way that he encapsulated the buzzy holiday vibes of Christmas in the 1950s with Carol, Haynes examined the pressing tension of corporate America at the tail end of the 20th century. The attention-to-detail needed to examine the recent past is immense, as many viewers watching the film may have remembered the events as they occurred. Thankfully, Haynes was able to recreate key events in a manner that felt legitimate.
Dark Waters is a very personal story about the interiority of a family, as Bilott’s character is an interesting one. A lesser filmmaker would have painted Bilott as an uncompromising hero with no faults, but Haynes did not go out of his way to lionize him; it is made evident that Bilott is rather indifferent to the situation with DuPont at the beginning of the film, and only gradually becomes more motivated in making a difference once he begins to learn about the devastating environmental impact that the corruption has caused. There is always a risk that a film like Dark Waters could feel more like a work of activism than a legitimate story, but Haynes is able to thread the needle between making the story both entertaining and informative. Even though it does give a tremendous amount of insight on a situation that many viewers may not have been aware of, the film still functions as a tightly paced thriller with a good deal of urgency.
Haynes captures a sense of righteous anger within Dark Waters as he examines the larger scope of the scandal, and why it is still relevant to the events of today. Although the actions that DuPont took to avoid taking responsibility for its role in the crisis are both shocking and despicable, Dark Waters examines that this is a result of the larger culture of indifference within American capitalism. Major corporations don’t treat their employees and clients as human beings, and are even willing to risk human life to make minimal financial gains. The DuPont incident is simply one example of what can go awry when there is no oversight; although it was a case that claimed countless lives and irrevocably damaged the environment, it is sadly not an anomaly as the climate crisis grows more extreme with each passing year. Dark Waters is not a horror film, but that does not mean that it isn’t terrifying.
Dark Waters
- Release Date
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November 22, 2019
- Runtime
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126 minutes
- Writers
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Matthew Michael Carnahan, Mario Correa, Nathaniel Rich
Entertainment
Patriots WAG Ann Michael Maye Elevates Super Bowl LX Look With $900 Pants
Drake Maye’s wife, Ann Michael Maye, already made her style mark even before the first snap at Super Bowl LX.
The Patriots WAG, 22, shared the details about her gameday look via TikTok on Sunday, February 8, hours before she hit the scene to cheer on her husband, 23, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
“The day is finally here. Happy Super Bowl Sunday. Oh, my God. I’m so excited,” she gushed leading up to the big game in which the Pats are facing off with the Seattle Seahawks.
Ann Michael rocked a white T-Shirt under her custom jacket and dazzled up her ensemble by wearing Alice + Olivia’s $895 “Amazing Embellished Jean” in an off-white color. The pants have a low-rise baggy style with a wide-leg silhouette, featuring shimmering crystals on the front and back that are scattered throughout to “amp things up to rockstar status.”
“This is Jayda’s Chanel bag,” she shared about her matching tote, seemingly referring to Jayda Hawkins, wife of New Patriots safety Jaylinn Hawkins.
Ann Michael also donned a one-of-a-kind coat made by Kristin Juszczyk (designer and wife of San Francisco 49ers fullback Kyle Juszczyk) in honor of the momentous occasion, featuring the Patriots logo on the right front pocket with MAYE written at the bottom of the left side.

Drake Maye #10 of the New England Patriots hugs his wife Ann Michael Maye prior to the start of Super Bowl LX against the Seattle Seahawks. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
It also has the message “WE ARE ALL PATRIOTS” emblazoned on the front. The navy blue jacket made out of a jersey has a dark chocolate color faux fur collar plus red and white stripes on the arms. Ann Michael styled her hair in a sleek updo, and opted for oval-shaped sunglasses and statement gold earrings.
“Ann Michael Maye for the Super Bowl!! 🏈🏈 I hope you have the best time and soak in every second of it @annmichaelhmaye ❤️,” Kristin, 31, wrote via Instagram while sharing a sketch video showing how she came up with the design.
Kristin’s designs have been a go-to for NFL WAGS. Her work went viral during the 2023-24 season when she launched her Designs By Kristin brand, which has since been rebranded as Off Season. (She even earned a licensing deal with the NFL, allowing her to use team logos on her looks.)
Kristin notably created custom puffer coats worn by Taylor Swift and Brittany Mahomes in 2024.
Kyle, 34, proudly plugged his wife’s designs on X at the time. “Rocking the jacket made by Kristin Juszczyk!!” the athlete wrote. In another reply, he proudly echoed, “Made by my wife!!”
“I only just ever wanted to design cool clothes,” Kristin told NBC Sports Bay Area during a recent interview. “And it really all stemmed from a point of going to all of his games and having three shirts in rotation, and not feeling like what I wanted to wear was available for purchase. So, I was like, the only other thing to do is to design it.”
She added, “And now being able to walk into a stadium and seeing people wear Off Season, it’s just the ultimate pinch-me, and that’s all I’ve ever dreamed of, truly.”
Entertainment
Cirie Fields Shades Lisa Rinna After Her Dramatic Banishment On ‘The Traitors’
Rinna, best known for her villainous role on “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,” was one of the Bravo vets to appear on season 4 of the hit Peacock reality series; however, her fate ended in a dramatic way.
Although Lisa Rinna failed to reach the end of the game, the mother of two branded herself the “most iconic” Traitor during her exit—sparking a sharp response from Fields herself.
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Cirie Fields Calls Out ‘Most Iconic’ Traitor Lisa Rinna Following Her Explosive Banishment
While traversing the Grammys red carpet, Fields, who is slated to appear in season 50 of “Survivor,” spoke about the current season of “The Traitors” and wasted no time calling Rinna out.
“Lisa Rinna said she is the most iconic, legendary Traitor of all time,” Fields said, physically clearing her throat. “I don’t know if you can claim that title, and you were just banished, and there are still like what 11 people in the game?”
“I mean, my hat is off to all the Traitors, but legendary, iconic… do I need to say anymore?” Fields quipped.
Rinna saw the clip of Fields joking about her gameplay in season 4 of “The Traitors” and commented on the video, “Oh, the shade from the Mother!!”
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Lisa Rinna Was Banished From ‘The Traitors’ After Getting Set Up By A ‘Love Island’ Star

Rinna’s speech in episode 7 of “The Traitors” came right after the “Days of our Lives” alum was banished at the roundtable and exposed as one of the show’s treacherous killers.
Rinna’s elimination from the game, however, was orchestrated by her fellow Traitor, “Love Island USA” alum Rob Rausch.
Rausch had been floating Rinna’s name around the Scottish castle for two days before her banishment, a move Rinna described as “smart,” according to Peacock TV.
She also praised Raush’s skill in the game, saying his charm and good looks were keeping him in the cast’s good graces.
“Yes, he’s smart also, but his power is this face and his body, and then he puts those d-mn overalls on with no shirt. I was like, ‘Oh well, there’s not much I can do about that.’ It’s hard to beat,” Rinna joked.
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Lisa Rinna Is In ‘The Traitors’ Hot Seat

Elsewhere in her chat with Peacock TV, Rinna hinted at a potential issue with “Real Housewives of Atlanta” alum Porsha Williams at the upcoming “Traitors” reunion.
In the second episode of the series, Rinna cast the final vote to send Williams home—something the peach holder criticized following her exit, according to The Blast.
Rinna, however, doesn’t seem to believe her move was as big a deal as Williams has made it out to be.
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“I was not gonna vote for Porsha. I was gonna probably go with Donna [Kelce], but when I heard what Ron had to say, and we were looking for a Secret Traitor, remember, I went with Porsha,” Rinna said about her vote. “And the truth is, I’m a Traitor. I don’t have an alliance to anyone, and I’m not a Housewife anymore, so I certainly don’t have an alliance to a Housewife, so I was like, ‘What’s the big deal?’”
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Rinna Feuded With Colton Underwood In Scotland

Williams wasn’t the only “Traitors” cast member with whom Rinna had an issue, according to The Blast.
Throughout the episodes, Rinna also clashed with “Bachelor” alum Colton Underwood, who, during their confrontation, implored her to show the cast the “real Lisa Rinna.”
While Rinna didn’t react the way she might’ve on an earlier season of “RHOBH,” she did throw shade at Underwood on Instagram, calling him a “stalker,” seemingly referencing his alleged harassment of his ex-girlfriend Cassie Randolph.
The comment gained traction, and in a video shared online, Rinna retracted her statements and assured the audience that she and Underwood were in a great space.
“Now, as you know, if you ask me to be a Housewife I’ll bring it to you, right? That’s what I was doing, all in the name of the game. But just so you know, I am totally great with Colton. I have been texting with him. We talk. Everything is great,” she said.
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Andy Cohen Is Gearing Up For ‘The Traitors’ Reunion
My team is getting ready for THE TRAITORS REUNION! Send me all of your questions for the cast NOW and let me know where you’re from in the question!
— Andy Cohen (@Andy) February 6, 2026
Rinna is prepared to face some of her biggest critics head-on at the upcoming “Traitors” reunion. In a post shared on X, Andy Cohen asked his followers for questions for the big day, prompting a range of inquiries about the show’s marquee players, from Rinna to her fellow Traitor, “Real Housewives of Potomac” alum Candiace Dillard Bassett.
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