Entertainment
Woman Found Hanging From Tree In Mississippi
A Mississippi community is calling for answers after the heartbreaking death of Tasia Fortune sparked concern and demands for transparency. As authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding her death, officials and community leaders are urging a closer look into what happened.
RELATED: Prayers Up! Woman Critically Injured After 7-Year-Old & 4-Year-Old Reportedly Crashed Their Parents’ Car Into Her (VIDEO)
Officials Call For Answers In Tasia Fortune Case
According to reports, the woman has been identified as 29-year-old Tasia Fortune. In addition, her body was discovered on Monday hanging from a tree in the backyard of a vacant property located on the 500 block of Road of Remembrance in Jackson, Mississippi. In addition, Jackson City Councilman Kenneth Stokes is now calling for additional support in the investigation, revealing that he sent a letter to the U.S. Attorney’s Office requesting help.
Councilman Calls For Justice Amid Painful History
As questions continue surrounding the case, Stokes revealed that he reached out to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for assistance, saying the focus is on making sure whoever is responsible is found and held accountable. “We sent a letter to the U.S. Attorney’s Office asking for help to make sure we catch and convict the person or persons involved with hanging a young lady in Jackson,” he said.
Additionally, Stokes addressed the city’s painful history. He also explained that regardless of whether investigators determine there was a racial motive, the circumstances are deeply troubling given Mississippi’s history of lynchings. He said the situation deserves public attention and condemnation while officials continue working to uncover the truth.
A 29 year old black woman was lynched in my city named Tasia Fortune and we want answers! How does something like this continue to happen? this isn’t even 1 mile away from my neighborhood. Justice for Tasia Fortune she didn’t deserve this. pic.twitter.com/ynn2noOzzj
— Sun Ra (@KailSovl) August 7, 2026
Officials Await Autopsy Results As Investigation Continues
Authorities are still investigating the case. Furthermore, Hinds County Coroner Jeremiah Howard confirmed that Fortune was found hanging from a tree, and the Mississippi State Medical Examiner’s Office is expected to conduct an autopsy to determine the cause and manner of death. As the investigation continues, the Fortune family is being kept in the thoughts of those seeking answers and justice.
Those interested in donating to the GoFundMe raised in honor of Fortune’s memory can do so by clicking here.
RELATED: Prayers Up! Authorities Speak Out After Body Of 21-Year-Old Male Was Reportedly Found Hanging From Tree In Georgia Park
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Entertainment
Brandy Mistaken For An Impersonator In Viral Run-In
Whew! Brandy is apparently at the point where looking this good has folks questioning if they’re actually standing in front of the real deal. The singer recently shared a hilarious encounter that showed just how stunned a group of men were when they spotted her, and their disbelief made the whole interaction even funnier.
RELATED: Sibling Love! Brandy And Ray J’s Reunion Has Fans In Their Feels (VIDEO)
Folks Were Not Buying Brandy’s Identity
In a video shared to Brandy’s Instagram Story, the singer recorded a car full of older men stopped beside her. One of the men immediately questioned her identity, telling her, “You ain’t no goddam Brandy,” before she laughed it off and played along, joking that she was a Brandy impersonator. The singer even encouraged them to take a picture “in case you never meet Brandy,” while flipping the camera around to capture her own shocked reaction.
She Had Photographic Proof And He Still Doubted
She then turned the camera back toward the group, and the driver handed her his phone and asked her to take a picture of herself with it. But even after getting photographic evidence, one passenger still wasn’t convinced it was really Brandy. The singer seemed amused by the whole exchange and asked, “You still don’t believe me?” 😂
The Comments Had Jokes, Nostalgia, And Reactions
Fans quickly ran to The Shade Room’s Instagram comment section and filled it with their reactions to Brandy’s hilarious encounter. Some joked that their nieces and nephews would absolutely lose it if they were in that car. While others said they remembered her from Moesha and couldn’t relate to not recognizing her. Meanwhile, others simply loved seeing Brandy outside and living her best life.
One Instagram user @onairkeke said, “This is so hilarious and wholesome 😂 Black folk don’t play about Brandy😂👏🏾”
This Instagram user @sway_thepro joked, “Brandy be outside!! lol Yessss”
And, Instagram user @pastor_west added, “Imagine being so famous you gotta argue with a stranger about whether you’re you. 😭😂”
Meanwhile, Instagram user @iamcalisodope wrote, “They gon trip when one of they little nephews show them this 😭😭😭”
While Instagram user @cashmase commented, “I bet it feels so good to just be a human for once. 🙌🏾”
Finally, Instagram user @whatthejuice_atl2 shared, “The Brandy they remember had braids!😂”
RELATED: Brandy Seemingly Addresses Commentary About Her Appearance After Viral Images Spark Concern Online (PHOTOS)
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Entertainment
Will Shailene Woodley Appear in Megan Park’s Sterling Point?
Megan Park formed a friendship with Shailene Woodley while working together on The Secret Life of the American Teenager — but is there a chance the former costars will reunite on Sterling Point?
“That I would love. I always am like, ‘Hey Shai,’” Park, 40, exclusively told Us about collaborating with Woodley, 34, on her other projects. “She’s also in The Fallout. I love working with people that are my friends and actors that I’ve worked with in the past. It’s so fun. So why not?”
Park credited The Secret Life of the American Teenager for bringing Woodley into her life.
“There were so many wonderful things that came out of that show really,” she noted. “Like my best friend Shailene Woodley, who still to this day is my ride or die.”
The Secret Life of the American Teenager, which ran from 2008 to 2013, followed teenager Amy (Woodley) as she experienced pregnancy and parenthood while also struggling with everything that comes from being a high school student.
In addition to Woodley and Park, the ABC Family drama starred Kenny Baumann, India Eisley, Greg Finley, Daren Kagasoff, Francia Raisa, Molly Ringwald and Steve Schirripa.
“It was such a different time [when I filmed The Secret Life] so it’s hard to compare that and [my new show Sterling Point] because it was truly a different era,” Park recalled. “And it was such a wonderful cast. All those people I’m still really close with.”

She continued: “And I learned a lot about just being on a set and what everyone’s role is and getting so comfortable on a set. But it was a very different kind of show to make.”
Park was grateful for the experience because of the lessons she learned.
“I just didn’t always feel like when I was in many different projects — not specifically that — it didn’t feel authentic to how I was actually experiencing my young adulthood or seeing my peers experience theirs or talking about things or in a way that felt really natural,” she added.
Park has since shifted to work behind the screen with The Fallout, My Old Ass and now Prime Video’s Sterling Point.
“I definitely did not know this was going to be the path for me,” Park told Us about getting the chance to create a TV show. “I definitely feel like I am trying to create a more authentic experience for the YA [young adult] space and genre — and also just for the actors.”
Park hinted that she didn’t have any plans to make an onscreen appearance, adding, “I personally don’t miss acting at all so I’m not itching to get back in front of the camera. The actors on this show kept being like, ‘Play the dead mom.’ I was like, ‘No! I don’t want to manifest that, first of all.’ And I was like, ‘No, I can’t direct myself to do that. I can’t do it. It doesn’t sound fun to me.’”
She continued: “But maybe. Never say never. Maybe in someone else’s project. Maybe for Sean Baker because I’d have a hard time saying no to that but I definitely am happier behind the camera.”
Sterling Point is streaming on Prime Video.
Entertainment
Russell Dickerson Reveals His Dream Collab Ahead Of New Album
Russell Dickerson is already looking toward his next musical chapter, and he has one major name at the top of his collaboration wish list. The country singer exclusively confirmed to The Blast that work on his fifth studio album is officially underway after months of writing new material.
While Dickerson did not disclose a title, release date, or potential tracklist, he made it clear that the creative process has entered an exciting new stage. “I just left the studio,” Dickerson revealed before sharing the update. “Making record five is rolling now.”
Along with teasing his next collection of songs, Dickerson opened up about the surprising range of artists he would love to work with, including the R&B superstar whose music has influenced him since elementary school.

Dickerson arrived at the interview fresh from working on his next record, giving fans an early indication that his fifth album is beginning to take shape. Although the singer kept the specifics under wraps, he revealed that he and his collaborators have spent considerable time building a collection of potential songs.
“We’ve been writing and writing and writing, and I really am so pumped on these songs,” Dickerson told The Blast, though he did not reveal how many songs he has completed, which tracks may make the final cut, or when the album could arrive.
His excitement, however, suggests that he is already confident in the material created during the ongoing writing sessions. “I can’t wait,” Dickerson said of the new music. “I’m so pumped.”
The album will mark another major milestone in the singer’s recording career. It could also give Dickerson additional opportunities to work with artists outside the country format, something he has expressed a strong interest in pursuing.
Usher Tops The Country Singer’s Collaboration Wish List

When asked which artist fans might never expect him to collaborate with, Dickerson did not need much time to consider his answer. “Usher is definitely my numero uno collab dream,” he revealed.
The choice may surprise listeners primarily familiar with Dickerson’s country hits, but his connection to Usher’s music dates back decades. Long before launching his own career, Dickerson repeatedly listened to the R&B singer’s early work. “I’ve been such a fan for so long,” he explained. “I mean, I was in fifth grade, and I had his first record, ‘My Way,’ and just over and over again, that was one of my favorite records.”
Released in 1997, “My Way” helped establish Usher as one of R&B’s defining voices. For Dickerson, the album became part of his early musical education and left a lasting enough impression that Usher remains his ultimate prospective collaborator years later.
Dickerson did not say whether he has approached Usher about recording together or already has a particular song in mind. For now, the potential pairing remains a dream, but one he would clearly welcome if the right opportunity arose.
Russell Dickerson Is Also Open To A Heavier Sound

Usher is not the only unexpected name Dickerson would consider bringing into his musical world. The singer revealed that his personal taste also extends into heavier rock music, creating the possibility of another surprising crossover in the future. “Probably some heavy rock artists that I would love to collab with too,” he shared.
Dickerson specifically named Underoath as one of his favorite bands, although he acknowledged that combining their respective sounds might be easier said than done. “Underoath is one of my favorite bands,” Dickerson said. “I don’t know if we would do a collab, but…”
The Grammy-nominated rock band is known for a considerably heavier sound than the upbeat country-pop music many fans associate with Dickerson. That contrast would make a collaboration unexpected, but it also demonstrates how far his musical interests extend beyond the genre in which he built his career.
Dickerson also identified The 1975 as another group he would be eager to work with. “The 1975, Matty, if I got to do that, that would be crazy too,” he admitted, referring to the band’s frontman, Matty Healy.
Russell Dickerson Celebrates A Major Career Milestone

Dickerson’s fifth album update comes as the singer celebrates another major achievement in his career. Following his Grand Ole Opry performance earlier this week, members of Dickerson’s team surprised him with an RIAA plaque recognizing “Happen to Me” as certified double platinum. The song, featured on his “Famous Back Home” album, previously spent multiple weeks at No. 1 in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada.
“Happen to Me” has also accumulated more than 400 million global streams and earned Dickerson his first Top 10 hit at Hot AC radio. Its success led to performances on “The Kelly Clarkson Show,” during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, on “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve,” and at CMA Fest.
Russell Dickerson Keeps His Momentum Going With ‘Worth Your Wild’

Meanwhile, Dickerson’s latest single, “Worth Your Wild,” continues climbing the charts. The track is currently inside the Top 30 at U.S. Country Radio and the Top 20 on the country radio charts in both the United Kingdom and Canada.
The RANGE Music artist also has a busy live schedule ahead, with performances at the Boots and Hearts Music Festival in Oro Station, Ontario, and Mansfield Speedway in Ohio among his upcoming stops.
Entertainment
Claressa Shields Shares Baby Plans With Papoose & Boxing Break
Whew! Claressa Shields may be preparing for a whole new title outside of the boxing ring! The champ recently opened up about what’s next for her personal life, and sis has already started mapping out her next chapter.
RELATED: Yikes! Crime Mob Rapper Princess Reveals Why Claressa Shields Blocked Her On Instagram (PHOTO)
Claressa Shields Plans Motherhood Before Boxing Comeback
During a recent conversation with Cam Newton on ‘Funky Friday,’ Claressa revealed that she and Papoose are planning to have a child next year. According to the athlete, Papoose asked her about having a baby, and she’s reportedly on board with the plan.
But before y’all start asking about the boxing gloves, Claressa says she plans to put her career on hold when the time comes. The champ intends to step away from the sport, focus on motherhood, and eventually make her return to boxing. And apparently, Claressa already has an expiration date in mind for her career. She shared that she hopes to retire from boxing by the age of 38. Looks like Claressa is already thinking about life beyond the ring — and this next chapter could be a major one!
You Already Know The Comments Got Real Messy
Folks quickly ran to The Shade Room’s Instagram comment section with plenty to say about Claressa Shields addressing her relationship with Papoose. Some argued that the conversation should focus more on Shields’ accomplishments and success in the ring than her personal life. Others felt addressing the situation publicly wasn’t the best move, while a few joked that Remy Ma is probably running it up in her group chat right now.
One Instagram user @its_karlitas_way said, “Kandi and Todd was divorced in 3 secs 🥴”
This Instagram user @tef_lon_don commented, “The lights are on but nobody’s home 🥴”
And, Instagram user @_kayyboss added, “You fina have a baby and ain’t met the others? 😅”
Meanwhile, Instagram user @_itsjusteb wrote, “Putting ya career on hold for a man that’s not ready to make you his wife….”
While Instagram user @exquisitecora_ shared, “I wish I was in Remy group chat w/ her friends.”
Finally, Instagram user @8simmerondown8 said, “I wish we could talk more about her successes then her relationship.”
Claressa Don’t Play About Papoose Or His Title
Claressa Shields and Papoose continue to have folks talking as their relationship remains a hot topic, and this time, the boxer wasn’t letting a particular description of her man slide. While promoting her upcoming August 15 fight against Kaye Scott at Atlanta’s State Farm Arena, Shields stopped by Streetz 94.5 FM for a conversation about her career and personal life. But once the interviewer brought up Papoose, the conversation quickly shifted from boxing to their relationship.
The interviewer asked Shields how much longer she was willing to be “in a relationship with somebody’s husband,” pointing to how the situation is viewed publicly. Shields quickly jumped in to correct the characterization, making it clear that she does not consider Papoose to be someone else’s husband. She explained that Papoose has filed for divorce and argued that the label should reflect that, while also calling for accountability on all sides of the situation.
RELATED: Oop! Mz. Shyneka Teases Remy Ma Interview After Claressa Shields Allegedly Threatens Her Over Papoose Comments (VIDEOS)
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Entertainment
10 Most Perfect Movie Plot Twists of the 2010s
The 2010s gave us some of the best movies of the 21st century, and some of them have unforgettable plot twists ever put on film. It takes a lot to keep the best twists hidden in the age of online theories and social media. And the movies with the best plot twists are able to keep them under wraps and manage to deliver shocking reveals that leave audiences speechless.
Whether it’s psychological thrillers, horror films, superhero blockbusters, or award-winning dramas, the decade proved that a well-executed twist could completely transform an already great movie into an unforgettable one. With movies from filmmakers such as M. Night Shyamalan to Denis Villeneuve, these are the most perfect plot twists of the 2010s, ranked by how brilliantly they shocked and surprised the audiences.
10
‘A Simple Favor’ (2018)
When glamorous public relations executive Emily Nelson (Blake Lively) suddenly disappears, widowed mommy vlogger Stephanie (Anna Kendrick) begins investigating in A Simple Favor. She grows closer to Emily’s husband Sean (Henry Golding), until Emily turns out to be alive, only faking her death for insurance money and escaping debt. Stephanie also discovers that Emily had an identical sister named Faith, whose death became part of the scheme.
Paul Feig‘s A Simple Favor may have too many twists for its own good, but the film’s light atmosphere and stellar performances make them work. Each revelation is downright outrageous but they’re presented sincerely. The character dynamic between Emily and Stephanie shifts with each surprise, and the film becomes irresistible to watch. With performances that are probably too good for this type of film, Blake Lively, Anna Kendrick and Henry Golding sell the twisty story so well. It’s one of the surprise hits of 2018, and even spawned a sequel.
9
Joker (2019)
Throughout Joker, Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix) becomes increasingly convinced that he is the illegitimate son of billionaire Thomas Wayne after discovering documents belonging to his mother. The truth is that it’s the fabrication of her mother. Moreover, Arthur’s relationship with her neighbor Sophie (Zazie Beetz) turns out to be a figment of his imagination. All of these trigger his descent into madness.
While the twist in Joker is not something new, it makes the film better as it puts the audience in Arthur’s mindspace as an unreliable narrator. The film gradually dismantles the version of reality viewers have accepted, making every earlier scene feel unstable. The imagined relationship with Sophie is particularly effective because the film never openly signals that anything is wrong until the truth quietly reveals itself. These twists reinforce Arthur’s deteriorating mental state while making the audience experience the same confusion and uncertainty he does.
8
‘The Visit’ (2015)
In The Visit, Becca (Olivia Dejonge) and Tyler (Ed Oxbould) travel to rural Pennsylvania to spend a week with their grandparents, whom they’ve never met because of their complicated family relationship. At first, the elderly couple seems eccentric, but then their behavior becomes increasingly disturbing and violent. When they have a video call with their mother, it is revealed that the people staying in the house are not their grandparents at all, but psychiatric patients who escaped.
Is it really a list of the best movie twists without an M. Night Shyamalan film? The Visit marks Shyamalan’s return to form after a string of disappointing releases. Here, his sensibilities are on full display. Shyamalan expertly builds suspense through small moments of discomfort, encouraging audiences to dismiss the grandparents’ bizarre behavior as symptoms of old age until the truth becomes impossible to ignore. The found-footage format also heightens the intensity of the situation. It’s one of Shyamalan’s understated and underrated film that is also an entertaining and fun horror film.
7
‘The Cabin in the Woods’ (2012)
The Cabin in the Woods starts as a familiar horror movie setup where five college friends head to a remote cabin where they begin falling victim to terrifying supernatural forces. Instead of being haunted by ghosts or attacked by monsters, the terror is an orchestrated ritual controlled by a secret organization that sacrifices people in horror story settings to appease ancient gods and prevent the apocalypse.
The twist is brilliant because it simultaneously subverts expectation and celebrates decades of horror movie cliches. A straightforward setup for a slasher film transforms into a wildly imaginative meta-commentary on why horror movies exist in the first place. When the movie opens up its secrets, there is an abundance of memorable moments. There is a spectacular sequence where every imprisoned monster is unleashed. It’s incredibly rare that a film manages to deconstruct a genre while still delivering the thrills that the audiences expected, which is why The Cabin in the Woods is one of the smartest and most entertaining horror films of the 2010s.
6
‘Iron Man 3’ (2013)
In Iron Man 3, Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) finds himself hunted by the Mandarin, a ruthless international terrorist whose actions have thrown the world into chaos. When Tony finally infiltrates the villain’s mansion, he discovers that the terrorist is a decoy, played by a washed-up British actor, Trevor Slattery (Ben Kingsley). The real mastermind is Aldrich Killian (Guy Pearce), a scientist who was once snubbed by Tony years before.
The twist remains one of the boldest and also most divisive in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The Mandarin in the comics is not Trevor Slattery. The film’s version of The Mandarin is a commentary on media manipulation and modern terrorism, instead of a straightforward terrorist. The reveal is both hilarious and unsettling, exposing how everyone accepts a carefully crafted narrative. It’s a smart subversive twist that no one was able to see coming. If you like this twist, recent MCU entries like Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings and Wonder Man feature Ben Kingsley’s Slattery in prominent roles.
5
‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ (2017)
In Spider-Man: Homecoming, Peter Parker (Tom Holland) faces off against the Vulture, who steals and sells advanced alien technology from the Battle of New York. At the same time, Peter is taking his classmate Liz (Laura Harrier) to the homecoming dance. When he picks up Liz, he realizes that her father is Adrian Toomes (Michael Keaton) aka The Vulture himself. While Toomes initially doesn’t notice who Peter is, he puts two and two together and finds out that his daughter’s date is Spider-Man.
The brilliance of the twist lies in its simplicity and flawless execution. The reveal is a surprise to everyone, and its effectiveness relies on Michael Keaton and Tom Holland’s performances. Keaton’s realization and his gradual sinister turn during the car ride to the homecoming dance elevate the sequence into one of the franchise’s most suspenseful scenes. Holland himself holds his own against a seasoned actor, selling the tension even more. Narratively, it makes Peter’s showdown more personal, as the Vulture is not some faceless bad guy, but the father of the girl he likes. While Spider-Man: Brand New Day explores the duality of his life further, this is an early glimpse into it.
4
‘Shutter Island’ (2010)
In Shutter Island, U.S. Marshal Teddy Daniels (Leonardo DiCaprio) appears to be investigating the disappearance of a patient from the mysterious Ashecliffe Hospital. But actually, Teddy isn’t a marshal at all. He’s a patient suffering from severe psychological trauma after killing his wife, who had drowned their children. The entire investigation has been an elaborate therapeutic exercise designed by the hospital’s staff to help him accept reality before resorting to a lobotomy.
On a second viewing, nearly every move and look makes perfect sense because everyone has been carefully participating in the roleplay. Rather than invalidating the mystery, the reveal transforms it into an emotionally devastating character study about grief and guilt. The film’s final line adds yet another layer of ambiguity that keeps audiences questioning its ending. Has Teddy relapsed, or did he finally choose lobotomy? It’s a film that rewards repeat viewings, not only because of its twist, but also because this Martin Scorsese film is one of the finest films of 2010.
3
‘Incendies’ (2010)
In Incendies, twins Jeanne and Simon are tasked with carrying out two requests in their mother, Nawal’s will, which is to deliver a letter to the father they believed was dead and another to a brother they never knew existed. Their journey leads to a shocking revelation that their missing father and unknown brother are the same man. He is their mother’s first son, who was stolen from her as a baby, grew up to become a militia leader, and unknowingly raped his own mother while she was imprisoned.
Calling the twist in Incendies perfect is not necessarily fitting. It is a great twist and definitely the most devastating one on this list. On a bigger picture, the twist explores the harrowing nature of war and the generational trauma it causes. Denis Villeneuve patiently builds the story until it reaches this heartbreaking revelation. After the film ends, the twist lingers because it reframes the characters’ journeys and also the impact of this twist on their lives. It’s very rare that a film delivered a twist that is horrifying, emotionally heartbreaking and thematically essential all at the same time, making this one of the best films of the 2010s.
2
‘Gone Girl’ (2014)
Gone Girl sees devoted wife Amy Dunne (Rosamund Pike) missing, and all evidence points to her husband Nick Dunne (Ben Affleck). In the midpoint of the film, it is revealed that Amy is alive and well. She orchestrated her own disappearance and framed Nick for murder as revenge for his infidelity.
This David Fincher film seemed like a traditional whodunit until we realized that both sides are unreliable narrators. The thematic weight behind Amy’s reasoning to frame Nick is the driving force of the twist. The cool girl monologue, written by author Gillian Flynn, is an iconic piece of work, both in cinema and the literary world. Amy Dunne instantly becomes one of the decade’s most unforgettable characters, thanks to her intelligence and meticulous planning, which make her terrifyingly believable. The most exciting thing is that after this midpoint reveal, the film becomes even more unpredictable.
1
Parasite (2019)
Parasite sees the Kim family cleverly infiltrating the wealthy Park family by assuming positions in their household. When they have settled in the lavish house, the real parasite is living in a hidden bunker beneath the mansion. The husband of the previous housekeeper has been living in the underground basement for years without the Parks ever noticing.
The twist in Parasite is so powerful that the film also changes genre when the reveal hits. The hidden basement is a perfect metaphor for the invisible underclass buried beneath society’s polished exterior, revealing that there is always someone struggling even more than the characters we’ve been following. Bong Joon-ho masterfully shifts genres without the audience ever realizing the transition. The film turns a con story into a tragedy about class and inequality. There’s a reason why Parasite was awarded Best Picture and is always in the conversation about the best movies of the 21st century.
Entertainment
9 Tubi original series to binge-watch for free
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Whether you’re looking for animation, reality TV, comedy, or drama, Tubi’s got you covered
Entertainment
Apple TV’s Longest-Running Sci-Fi Only Needed 1 Season To Become a Masterpiece
A good first season can often make or break many TV series, but rarely do we get to see one that is, by itself, a masterpiece. When For All Mankind first came out, there was a lot riding on its success. Nowadays, Apple TV is widely known to be the home of prestige sci-fi programming, but it all started when the streamer decided to bet on TV veteran Ronald D. Moore‘s latest co-creation, an alt-history sci-fi series that completely reimagined what would happen if the Space Race’s most important moment had gone differently.
‘For All Mankind’s Premise Makes It One of Sci-Fi’s Boldest Stories
In the early years of the Space Race, the USSR dominated most of the important milestones, but everything changed when, in July 1969, Neil Armstrong took his “one small step” on the Moon. For All Mankind, however, poses the question of what the world could have looked like if the Soviets had been able to claim that honor first. In the series’ very first scene, cosmonaut Alexei Leonov plants the Soviet flag on the Moon as the whole world watches.
This premise is simple, yet also wildly imaginative, resulting in a world that follows a surprisingly different trajectory from our own. While, in reality, the Moon landing confirmed the U.S. as the dominating power in the space race and the USSR proved incapable of keeping up, in For All Mankind, NASA and the U.S. government devote all of their efforts to catching up with the Soviets. Priorities shift all over as the U.S. refuses to acknowledge defeat, determined to achieve milestones that, in the real world, are still decades away.
Real history is still the story’s anchor, so some events and characters remain the same, as do some of society’s struggles. The scientific research and development that follows the Soviet Moon landing also results in technological innovation and social milestones that would otherwise also take decades to emerge (or, in some cases, still haven’t). In this sense, For All Mankind isn’t about picturing a different future, but how humanity might have evolved if a single defining moment in history had unfolded differently.
‘For All Mankind’s Character-Driven Story Adds Weight to Humanity’s Achievements
As the story continues over subsequent seasons, For All Mankind introduces new characters, making the series more of a generational saga about space exploration. The characters introduced in Season 1, however, linger with viewers even after they’re long gone, which, in a way, makes them the most important people in the series. Characters are all fighting for their place in the history books as astronauts, engineers, scientists, and even government officials.
The series may have an ensemble cast, but its undeniable protagonist is Ed Baldwin (Joel Kinnaman), an astronaut who is deeply impacted by the Soviet Moon landing and what he perceives as NASA’s inability to take risks. His family and colleagues quickly become key characters themselves, including fellow astronaut Gordon “Gordo” Stevens (Michael Dorman), NASA engineer Margo Madison (Wrenn Schmidt), and even Gordo’s wife, Tracy (Sarah Jones), who later becomes an astronaut herself and faces their own challenges, especially as women claim more space in male-dominated environments. Young Aleida Rosales (Olivia Trujillo) witnesses all they accomplish and is herself inspired to reach for the stars, leading to her having even more of an impact on the story when she later joins NASA herself. Major space events may be what effectively changes the world of For All Mankind, but characters like Ed and Margo are who give the series its strongest emotional impact.
‘For All Mankind’ Opened the Doors for Science Fiction on Apple TV
Now, For All Mankind might now be Apple TV’s most talked-about series, but the fact that it’s currently gearing up for its sixth and final season and has a highly praised spin-off like Star City is proof of its legacy. For All Mankind did a lot to define the streamer’s identity over the years, which then allowed for series like Severance, Silo, Foundation, and Pluribus to come along and become hits in their own right.
Saying that Apple TV has the best sci-fi programming currently on streaming isn’t news, but how it got to this point is just as exciting as the types of shows it offers in its catalog. What they all have in common is how thoughtful and ambitious they are, but back in 2019, when For All Mankind first premiered, few could have predicted that it would lead to the revival of one of the best genres on streaming.
Entertainment
12 Years Later, Joel Kinnaman’s Sci-Fi Flop Officially Gets a Second Chance on Streaming
Hot off the success of three major series — the fifth season of For All Mankind, Imperfect Women, and Jo Nesbø’s Detective Hole — Joel Kinnaman is set to continue this hot streak with TNT’s upcoming High Value Target: The Hunt for Saddam. The limited series debuted its first trailer recently, ahead of a September release. Kinnaman now appears to firmly be in his streaming era, but for a few years around a decade ago, he was tipped to be the next major Hollywood leading man. This was around the same time that Taylor Kitsch and Armie Hammer were positioned as Kinnaman’s close competitors. Kinnaman secured leading roles in two major franchises, but neither of those two attempts panned out the way anyone involved would have liked.
In 2016, he played Rick Flag in David Ayer‘s ill-fated Suicide Squad, which was majorly retooled by the studio following the disappointing reception of Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. Although Suicide Squad was a box-office hit, grossing around $750 million worldwide against a reported budget of $175 million, the movie received poor reviews and caused controversy for its behind-the-scenes troubles. Kinnaman reprised his role in the soft reboot The Suicide Squad, directed by James Gunn five years later. That movie ended up underperforming at the box office, although it received positive reviews. In 2014, Kinnaman headlined what is arguably his biggest film, which recently saw a streaming viewership spike.
Joel Kinnaman’s Sci-Fi Tentpole Was Revived on Streaming
According to FlixPatrol, it was among the 10 most watched movies on the global Paramount+ viewership charts this past week, when the leaderboard was topped by the animated original Avatar Aang: The Last Airbender. We’re talking, of course, about the RoboCop remake released in 2014. Directed by José Padilha, the movie surrounded Kinnaman with acclaimed actors such as Gary Oldman, Samuel L. Jackson, Michael Keaton, and Michael K. Williams in the supporting cast, with Abbie Cornish playing the female lead. The movie grossed around $240 million worldwide against a reported budget of $130 million, but received mixed reviews. It now holds a 50% score on the aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, where the consensus reads, “While it’s far better than it could have been, José Padilha’s RoboCop remake fails to offer a significant improvement over the original.” Stay tuned to Collider for more updates.
- Release Date
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February 12, 2014
- Runtime
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118 minutes
- Director
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José Padilha
- Writers
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Joshua Zetumer, Michael Miner, Edward Neumeier
- Producers
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Eric Newman, Gary Barber, Marc Abraham
Entertainment
David Henrie Claps Back At ‘Wizards’ Co-Star
There’s more madness in the wizarding world, considering David Henrie recently clapped back at his former co-star, Jake T. Austin, denying the claims that the latter wasn’t invited to participate in the “Wizards of Waverly Place” reboot.
Henrie, who led the reboot dubbed “Wizards Beyond Waverly Place,” has been in the hot seat over the last few days, as OG fans of the series are criticizing him and blaming him for ruining the original sitcom after Disney announced the sequel had officially run its course.
On Instagram, Henrie, who starred as Justin in the original series and the reboot, posted a screenshot of his conversation with a fan. In the messages, the fan blasted him for allegedly failing to include Max (Austin) in the rebooted series.
“I woulda loved to have Max back, but sadly he didn’t accept our numerous offers to join the new show,” Henrie replied to the fan. “We called him, texted, went through agents, etc.”
Henrie went on to say that it was a goal of his to introduce Max to the “new generation of millions of kids” before saying he respected his former co-star’s decision to stay away. “I wish him all the best,” Henrie added.
Henrie Says He Was ‘Heartbroken’ That Austin Didn’t Want To Join The ‘Wizards’ Reboot
In another message that’s been shared online, Henrie told a fan that he was truly “heartbroken” that Austin allegedly didn’t accept the call to be part of the rebooted series, which also included Selena Gomez, Jennifer Stone, and David DeLuise.
“We invited him many, many, many times to come back,” Henrie stated. “Wished he would’ve accepted. We had a beautiful plot for Max’s return all mapped out. In fact, we built the entire second season around his return and were gutted that he didn’t accept.”
One Of The Showrunners Chimed In
Scott Thomas, one of the production’s showrunners, jumped on X to confirm Henrie’s version of events, saying Austin was asked “multiple times by many people” and allegedly failed to respond.
“Really wanted him back,” Thomas added. “No response. Also asked David D. to return for the finale. He passed.”
Austin Said He Was ‘Disappointed’ He Was Left Out Of The ‘Wizards’ Sequel
Henrie’s recent posts came one day after Austin slammed the 37-year-old on Instagram and said he was upset that he was the only original Russo family member to be excluded from the show.
“To all the Wizards fans, just wanted to say for the record how disappointed I am to have not been included in the spinoff,” he wrote on his Instagram Stories, according to The Blast. “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.”
More Cast Members Express Their Annoyance With The Direction The Show Was Taken

And Austin wasn’t the only cast member with something to say. Replying to an interview with Gomez, DeLuise, who played the Russos’ father, said that the show failed due to the many changes.
“It would not be over the OG wizards were really there,” DeLuise commented. “Missed opportunity.”
Dan Benson, who played Zeke in the original sitcom, also expressed his disappointment and slammed Henrie for seemingly trying to make the series all about him.
“It’s just heartbreaking because there was so much potential for a Wizards reboot and it turned into the failed David Henrie show,” Benson posted. “People say I’m just bitter I didn’t get invited back, but I’m actually just sad for the fans. WoWP changed my life forever; I’ll always be grateful.”
During another interview, Stone, who rose to fame as the beloved Harper, also implied that the OG characters were limited due to Henrie’s involvement.
“When Wizards Beyond first came out, I had a conversation with David, and he was kind of like, ‘Hey, if it makes sense down the line, maybe you’ll be on for an episode,’” Stone said. However, Henrie had a change of heart and included her in the series finale. “I was pleasantly surprised when I got the call to come back,” she added.
Entertainment
Zendaya’s Sweet Reaction To Meeting Tom Holland : ‘I Exploded’
Zendaya couldn’t contain her joy when she first met Tom Holland, as seen in a resurfaced clip of the actress gushing about their initial encounter.
The couple mostly keep their relationship private, but the Euphoria actress called him her “best friend” last month and said she loves that they’re able to “grow together.”
Following months of speculation, Holland confirmed that they’d gotten married, and recent reports suggest they held a private party to celebrate it earlier this week.
A resurfaced clip of Zendaya gushing about her first encounter with husband and Spider-Man co-star Tom Holland has gone viral, sending fans into a frenzy over their heartwarming love story.
In the viral snippet, which appears to have been pulled from a press tour interview for their Marvel run, the cast comprising Zendaya, Holland, Jacob Batalon and Sadie Sink were asked about their first impressions of one another.
When it was Holland’s turn, Zendaya could be seen grinning from ear to ear as she recalled what meeting him for the first time felt like.
“I just exploded, my heart exploded,” the Emmy-winning actress admitted in the clip, using her hand to describe her visceral reaction to meeting him.
Zendaya And Tom Holland’s Love Story Has Fans Swooning

Several internet users were moved by her remark and took to the comment section to share their reactions.
“Ugh they way they look at each other is so perfect,” a Reddit user wrote, while another said, “There was an interview from one of these press tours where he called her ‘the absolute North Star of my life,’ and that’s been living rent-free in my head since I saw it.”
“I love how she gets so animated and forgets to keep up the cool baddie mystique when it comes to him, like damn he really makes her happy,” someone else wrote.
“Honestly they’re just the damn cutest together,” another user penned. “I love their confidence and love for each other. It’s just beautiful.”
Tom Holland Calls Zendaya His ‘Wife’ After Confirming Marriage

Zendaya and Holland met on the set of Spider-Man: Homecoming in 2016, during the movie’s casting and initial production.
Their on-screen chemistry was undeniable, to the extent that they had to deny rumors suggesting they were dating, insisting they were only good friends while promoting the movie.
It wasn’t until 2021 that they sent the rumor mill into overdrive, as they were seen kissing in a car. Over the years, they’ve kept their relationship private, with the 30-year-old actor recently confirming that they’ve actually tied the knot following months of speculation.
During a recent appearance on the Dish Podcast, he was asked which person he’d love to spend a holiday in Greece with.
“I think probably my wife would be pretty good,” he replied. “It would be a bit strange if I went, ‘Sorry babe, I’m gonna take Matt [Damon, Holland and Zendaya’s Odyssey co-star] actually.’”
A source told PEOPLE that the couple hosted a private party at Beaverbrook Hotel in Surrey, UK, on August 4 to celebrate their wedding.
“There was a very natural theme to the wedding,” the insider added.
Zendaya And Holland Often Gush About Each Other

Their relationship is full of each partner praising the other with glowing words and sweet public tributes.
While attending the UK premiere of the latest installment of the Spider-Man franchise, the actress was asked if she has a friend for whom she’s grateful to have grown alongside, and she didn’t hesitate to call on her husband.
“Well, Tom, obviously, my best friend, but being able to do these films with him is a privilege, and I love to be able to grow together and watch him,” she said. “I mean, he’s the best.”
Zendaya Reveals Why She Protects Her Romance With Tom Holland

While fans would wish the couple would share more details about their romance, Zendaya opened up about the reason she’d rather not, explaining that they want to preserve privacy in their relationship.
“I just feel like for me there is a level of parasocial investment in my personal relationship, which I understand,” she said on the April 1 episode of The New York Times‘ Modern Love podcast.
She continued, “I’m aware that I’m a public person and so is he, and I’m also aware that we’ve grown up in front of people and we’ve done movies where we fall in love with each other, so I really do understand that, and I don’t want to dismiss that like, ‘Stay out of my business’ or whatever.”
“In a lot of ways, I’m also a very private person, and I try my best to be able to have things for myself and for him as well,” she added.
Zendaya went on to explain that they’re not trying to hide anything but are only trying to “preserve things” for themselves to “maintain that joy” they share.
“I hear it, but I also [have] my own little boundaries of what I like to bring up and talk about, but then also what I’m willing to share, you know?” she said, adding, “I just try to find the balance in the middle there.”
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