For eight years, Melissa Gilbert had a front-row seat to the energy and excitement of Manhattan life. 

From Broadway outings and dinner dates with friends to quiet neighborhood routines, the actress built a life she clearly adored in her Upper West Side apartment. 

However, this week, the “Little House on the Prairie” star revealed she’s packing up and leaving New York City behind. 

Her emotional farewell comes as her husband, Timothy Busfield, continues to fight serious criminal charges in New Mexico, making the couple’s next chapter one that begins under difficult circumstances.

Melissa Gilbert took to Instagram on Tuesday to document her departure from the one-bedroom Upper West Side apartment that had been her home for nearly a decade. 

The 62-year-old posted a series of photographs showing the residence overtaken by moving boxes, including a striking image of herself stretched out on the floor surrounded by the packed belongings.

“So long perfect little one bedroom apartment on the Upper West Side. The last eight years here have been so special,” Gilbert wrote.

The photos captured stacks of carefully labeled U-Haul boxes filling the living room, while another image showed Gilbert lying on a rug amid the chaos. 

A final photograph offered a look at the apartment before the moving process began.

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Gilbert Reflects On Eight Years Of Work And Memories

As she looked back on her time in New York, Melissa Gilbert spoke about the professional and personal milestones that filled those years.

“A lot of amazing work was done in and around this city,” she wrote. The Hollywood star recalled spending countless hours in theaters and on soundstages while also enjoying the social side of Manhattan life.

“So many theaters and soundstages. So many wonderful dinners with friends and nights out on the town,” she said.

Gilbert’s farewell extended beyond work and entertainment. She reflected on the simple routines that became part of her daily life, from neighborhood walks and subway rides to interactions with familiar faces and strangers alike.

“This city truly has a pulse. You can feel it in your heart,” the star explained.

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Melissa Gilbert Pays Tribute To The Neighborhood She Loved

Gilbert also used her farewell message to acknowledge the small businesses and local spots that became fixtures in her daily routine.

“Goodbye favorite newsstand, bodega, dance studio, and laundry. Goodbye shoe repair, dry cleaners, nail salon. Goodbye sweet neighbors whom we love so much,” she wrote.

Although the “Family of Strangers” actress expressed sadness about leaving, she made it clear that it was not necessarily a permanent farewell.

“I promise we will be back it’s just that right now…..well….you know,” Gilbert wrote. She then revealed the couple’s next chapter, sharing, “Excited to live in our wonderful home upstate full time for a good long while.”

Gilbert ended her message by calling New York her favorite city. “And a very fond ‘farewell and see you soon’ to our favorite city in the world,” she added.

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Fans Shower Gilbert With Tons Of Uplifting Messages 

Melissa Gilbert’s post quickly resonated with followers as she reflected on the memories created within the city she had come to love. 

In no time, fans flooded the comments section with words of hope and encouragement.

“When one door closes another one opens. Yet memories are forever. Hope you find peace wherever you land,” one fan wrote. 

Another added, “Hey MG. You’ll be ok. Wishing you love and light. We had a lot of fun back in the day collecting shells in the early morning at CIGC.”

A third fan commented, “So sorry you’re having to give it up. I pray things get better soon and that you will be able to rent another one there.”

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A fourth concerned user shared, “Sending you so much positivity in your next chapter. Thank you for the light you share and for giving us a little peek into your world.”

Melissa Gilbert’s Move Comes As Timothy Busfield Fights Criminal Charges

The timing of Gilbert’s departure from Manhattan has drawn attention because it coincides with Busfield’s legal challenges.

The actor, whom Gilbert has been married to since 2013, is currently fighting a criminal case in New Mexico. 

Busfield has been charged with four counts of criminal sexual contact with a child under the age of 13.

A grand jury indicted him on February 6 over allegations tied to alleged incidents that reportedly occurred in October 2022 and September 2023. Each count carries the designation of a third-degree felony.

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Busfield has pleaded not guilty and has repeatedly denied the allegations. The charges involve two child actors who worked on “The Cleaning Lady,” the television series where Busfield served as both a producer and director between 2022 and 2025.

Prince William has reportedly become the focus of fresh royal tension amid speculation that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle could return to the UK with their children for the first time in several years.

While King Charles is said to be open to seeing his grandchildren, reports suggest William remains reluctant to reconcile with his younger brother.

The alleged disagreement between Prince Harry and William has fueled claims of strain between the king and his heir, though no visit, family meetings, or security arrangements have been officially confirmed.

William is said to have had a “frosty exchange” with King Charles during last weekend’s Trooping the Colour, reportedly linked to renewed speculation about Prince Harry’s potential return to the UK.

“The King’s relationship with William is not in a good place,” a source told the Mail on Sunday. “They are at a very low ebb.”

William is said to have learned about Harry and Meghan’s upcoming visit just hours before the recently held Trooping the Colour ceremony, leaving him stunned and reportedly unhappy,

According to the news outlet, the future king believes the monarch is making a “misjudgment” in trying to mend ties with the Duke of Sussex after he and his wife, Meghan, quit royal life and moved to the US.

Kate, like her husband, is also reportedly displeased with the possibility of a Harry and Meghan return. Insiders note that the news is what likely triggered a “frosty” exchange between the Waleses and Charles during Trooping the Colour.

“Queen Camilla, King Charles, and the Princess of Wales were not outwardly warm together that day, and the reason was not just the protesters. Relations were decidedly frosty backstage,” one source said.

Another claimed, “So much of what they do is performative. But there was little performance on display that day.”

Prince William Might Not Meet With Harry During The UK Visit

The claims come amid fresh media reports suggesting that Harry and Meghan Markle could be planning a visit to Britain with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. If it goes ahead, it would mark their first trip to the UK in several years.

The possibility has also reignited discussion about whether King Charles could meet his grandchildren during the visit, with some reports suggesting he is open to reconnecting with them. However, details remain unclear, including whether any formal arrangements or security provisions have been put in place.

Attention has also turned to Prince William, with some royal commentators suggesting he is unlikely to meet Harry during the visit due to ongoing tension between the brothers.

Their relationship has remained strained since Harry stepped back from royal duties, following allegations he made about the royal family in interviews and his memoir, “Spare.”

One report even suggested that William was displeased about being informed late about the Sussexes’ potential plans during recent royal events, contributing to what some described as a tense atmosphere at Trooping the Colour.

Claims Emerge Over Royal Security Arrangements And Prince William’s Reported Reaction To Sussex Visit

Reports also suggest that Charles may be covering the security costs for Harry, Meghan, and their children during a possible upcoming visit to the UK, although this has not been officially confirmed.

UK officials have declined to comment on the specifics of any arrangements, citing “long-standing policy not to provide detailed information on those arrangements, as doing so could compromise their integrity and affect individuals’ security.”

Meanwhile, some media reports claim that William reacted strongly to the suggestion of the Sussexes receiving support for the visit.

According to those accounts, he was deeply displeased and has even been described as threatening to “boycott Sandringham forever” if Harry and Meghan are included. One report also suggested he chose not to attend a post-Trooping the Colour family lunch.

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Journalist Roya Nikkhah, speaking on “Times Radio,” has previously described William as someone who can be firm in his stance during family disputes, suggesting he tends to “hold a grudge” and “choose sides” when trust has been broken.

Prince William ‘Understands’ Why King Charles’ Desire To See His Montecito-Based Grandkids ‘Matters’

At the same time, other reports present a different perspective, claiming William may be open to a private and low-key meeting with Harry.

According to these accounts, the Prince of Wales reportedly “knows this visit is bigger than old arguments,” particularly given Charles’ reported desire to spend time with his grandchildren, and he “understands why that matters.”

Sources also suggest that while any potential meeting between Harry and William remains uncertain, no formal plans have been finalized.

The same applies to other possible family interactions, including between Meghan and Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, with insiders indicating that any such meetings would be informal and dependent on circumstances at the time. An insider explained, “Nobody is putting pressure on Catherine or Meghan. If they see each other, great. If they don’t, that’s okay too.”

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There has also been continued public interest in whether Harry and Meghan’s children might finally meet their cousins, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, though no arrangements have been confirmed.

Some sources say “everyone agrees it would be wonderful if the children could spend time together. But right now the focus is simply making the visit happen.”

Royal Family Shares Emotional Father’s Day Tribute Honoring Prince Philip

Meanwhile, on Sunday, June 21, the Royal Family marked Father’s Day with a heartfelt message shared across its official social media platforms.

The tribute included a nostalgic photograph of Charles standing with his late father, Prince Philip, taken at RAF Cranwell in Lincolnshire on August 20, 1971, during Charles’ time receiving his wings.

Alongside the image, the post carried a reflective message which read: “Celebrating all Fathers, and thinking of those who wish they could be with their Dads, today.” Philip, who passed away on April 9, 2021, at the age of 99, was also remembered as part of the tribute.

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In previous years, the Royal Family has similarly marked the occasion with personal family photographs. Last year’s Father’s Day post featured a black-and-white image of Philip pushing a King Charles and Princess Anne on a swing, as well as a separate photo of Queen Camilla with her father, Major Bruce Shand.

The accompanying message read: “To all Dads everywhere, we wish you a happy Father’s Day today.”

90 Day Fiancé star Pedro Jimeno is engaged to girlfriend Valentina Malagon four years after his split from ex-wife Chantel Everett.

“Me and Valentina, we got a big, big announcement to tell you because we are engaged! We are going to get married,” Jimeno, 34, said in a video alongside Malagon uploaded via Instagram on Tuesday, June 23. “I proposed to Valentina in Hawaii.”

Malagon shared in the clip that she was “very surprised” by the proposal but it was ultimately an “amazing” experience.

“The day of the proposal, I [said], ‘We are going to go to the best place in Hawaii, to the best restaurant.’ And we drive an hour away,” Jimeno recalled. “When we went to the place it was nothing, in the middle of nowhere. And she was like, ‘Really? It’s not a restaurant here.’ She was a little pissed because she was hungry. But I got it done!”

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The couple also explained that they want to start the wedding planning process “very soon” and are looking to hold the ceremony in either Colombia, the Dominican Republic or the United States.

Jimeno also recalled how he and Malagon’s “amazing connection” has grown since they met in Tulum.

“My life [has] changed with Valentina. She loves me a lot,” he said before the pair ended the video with a sweet kiss.

Jimeno also included a special message for his fiancée.

“Today we’re not just celebrating a ‘yes.’ We’re celebrating the moment when two paths, two stories, and two dreams decided to become one forever,” he wrote in the post’s caption. “Valentina came into my life as an answer, as a blessing that God placed on my path to show me that true love isn’t something you search for … it’s something you recognize.”

Jimeno continued, “With her, I learned that peace also has a name, that home can live in a single look, and that the future is built hand in hand with the person who lifts you up, honors you, and loves you with truth. Today, our greatest story begins: a story of faith, purpose, and a love that never gives up.”

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Jimeno also expressed his gratitude to have Malagon as his partner in life.

“Thank you, my love, for choosing this journey with me,” he shared. “What’s coming will be even more beautiful than what we’ve dreamed … because with you, every day I become a better man. I love you.”

Before falling in love with Malagon, Jimeno was married to Chantel Everett. The now-exes were featured on 90 Day Fiancé season 4 as well as their spinoff show The Family Chantel. After a contentious split, Jimeno and Everett divorced in 2022.

Editor’s Note: The following contains spoilers for House of the Dragon Season 3 Episode 1.

When it comes to Game of Thrones, everyone loves a good dragon battle, but, as much of this as there is in the House of the Dragon Season 3 premiere, it’s actually Lord Corlys Velaryon (Steve Toussaint), the Sea Snake, who steals the show. During the Battle of the Gullet, he has a personal confrontation against Captain Sharako Lohar (Abigail Thorn) of the Triarchy, including some of the best naval battle scenes in recent pop culture. The thing is, we once had the prospect of seeing many more such battles and adventures, as HBO once announced the development of the Sea Snake’s own series, 9 Voyages. Now, House of the Dragon proves how massive a mistake it might be to not see that series released.

HBO Once Had a Live-Action Project About the Sea Snake’s Adventures Before ‘House of the Dragon’

Between May 2019 and August 2022, fans of A Song of Ice and Fire didn’t have much to watch on TV, but that doesn’t mean things weren’t happening. In March 2021, for example, HBO announced the development of three spin-off shows, including 9 Voyages. It would follow Lord Corlys’ adventures as he sails around the world in his epic voyages. This is one of the most important parts in the character’s story, when he collects most of House Velaryon’s treasures and earns the Sea Snake title, and something fans have long wanted to see.

At the time, it was announced that 9 Voyages was being developed by Bruno Heller, creator of another HBO epic series, Rome. It felt like a no-brainer, given the very nature and scale of Corlys’ story before settling down in Driftmark, but the project lost momentum to the point where it seemed like it was about to get cancelled entirely. Now, following the most recent news, the series has been pivoted to an animated format and is now called The Sea Snake, with Genndy Tartakovsky at the helm. However, it is still in development, so let’s hope it eventually sets sail for real.

Corlys Velaryon’s Voyages Are Teased Multiple Times in the ‘House of the Dragon’

Corlys’ confrontation with Lohar is nothing short of epic, and it really does steal the spotlight from the dragons on many occasions. His leading her into the narrows for an ambush is easily one of the highlights of the episode, a chase sequence unlike any other in Game of Thrones television so far. There are other moments, however, that tease the Sea Snake’s glorious past as a warrior and explorer — he wields a Dothraki arrakh in battle, drinks wine from Ib with Alyn of Hull (Abubakar Salim), and Lohar mentions he has been killing her mates for 20 years.

In total, Corlys is said to have made nine voyages as the captain of his flagship, the Sea Snake, going to the furthest corners of the known world and, in many cases, becoming the first Westerosi to ever do it. Although his feats were later recorded by Maester Mathis in his book, The Nine Voyages, there aren’t many details about the trips themselves, making them perfect for a series to explore. What is known is where he went: Yi Ti, Leng, Asshai, the Shivering Sea to the north, Qarth, and much more. Before that, he had already been to most of the Free Cities, Ib, and even Hardhome beyond the Wall.

It was during this period that Corlys multiplied the wealth of House Velaryon and turned it into one of the richest in Westeros. On his ninth and final voyage to Qarth, he returned to Driftmark with ships filled with gold, silk, and spices, and even attempted to bring elephants. He then built High Tide and filled it with the treasures from his voyages, and that’s why seeing it burn under Lohar’s orders hurts him so much. The scene in the Narrows is only a fraction of what Corlys truly is as a captain and sailor, which begs the question: just how good was he in his prime? That’s what we want answered.

‘The Sea Snake’ Is Currently Being Developed as an Animated Show, but It Deserves the Spotlight

Image via Ollie Upton/HBO

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In January, HBO chief Casey Bloys confirmed that The Sea Snake is being developed as an animated series, not live-action, contrary to what was believed. It would make this the first-ever Game of Thrones animated show, which is exciting for the franchise, but, given the treatment the industry tends to give animated projects, it’s also a little concerning. They usually aren’t among most studios’ priorities, and, when a project is pivoted to animation, it’s frequently a bad sign, as if executives have lost faith in it.

Hopefully, though, Corlys’ incredible scenes in the third season premiere of House of the Dragon are enough to convince HBO executives not only to keep The Sea Snake in active development but also to make it a priority. It wouldn’t just be about delivering similar naval sequences every episode, but about fleshing out the history of one of Westeros’ most interesting characters. His relationship with Alyn, for example, feels very reminiscent of the naval action classic Master and Commander, as does the way he commands his ship.

An animated series really sounds great, an opportunity to develop a new visual language for Game of Thrones and bring the Sea Snake’s stories to life in a unique way. He encounters creatures that are infinitely stranger and, some, even more dangerous than dragons, which might work better in animation rather than live-action. Recently, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms proved the franchise can greatly benefit from different tones and fresh approaches, so something like a Master and Commander in Westeros would be perfect for Corlys and the fans of this massive franchise.

House of the Dragon is available to stream on HBO Max. New episodes air weekly on Sunday nights.

Josh Hokit defended his comment about calling Michelle Obama a “man.”

“I thought I was giving her a compliment,” the UFC fighter, 28, said during a Tuesday, June 23, appearance on sport journalist Ariel Helwani’s eponymous show.

Earlier this month, Hokit participated in UFC Freedom 250 event. After defeating Derrick Lewis, Hokit made a controversial remark about the former first lady in a post-fight interview with Joe Rogan.

“Michelle Obama is a man,” Hokit said at the time. “Am I right, America?”

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UFC fighter Josh Hokit made his first public statement since his controversial moment at UFC Freedom 250 on Saturday, June 13, when he called former first lady Michelle Obama “a man” during a post-fight interview. “Strong and Courageous‼️,” Hokit, 28, wrote via Instagram on Monday, June 15. The caption came alongside a photo of the […]

Hokit received backlash for the comment but argued on Tuesday that it was meant to be endearing.

“Michelle Obama being a man. It’s like, she knows how to deal with adversity,” he said. “She knows how to work hard like a man when the times get tough.”

Helwani, 43, then asked Hokit why the thought popped into his mind during his interview.

“I thought it was a perfect opportunity to show the world how great this country is with freedom of speech,” he explained to Helwani. “You go somewhere [else in the world] and you say something like that and you die. And I’m not suicidal by the way. I’m in good spirits. I’m a little under the weather right now but other than that, I’m good. And so in other parts of the world, you say something like that and you’re not here to speak to Ariel Helwani, you know. So yeah, I don’t know; there are a few ways. There’s a few answers to that. There’s a certain side that pokes at another side and there’s no outrage there and so I thought it was a perfect time to take a jab.”

When asked if he regretted the comment about Obama, Hokit stood 10 toes down.

“Never,” he said. “That’s one thing about my career. … You’ll never hear me backtrack from what I say.”

After Hokit’s remarks got the attention of the American people, the White House responded to the controversy. Spokesman Steven Cheung called Hokit’s match a “great win” and applauded his performance.

“He showed toughness and the ability to pressure his opponent both on his feet and on the ground,” Cheung told CNN’s Jake Tapper in June.

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Barack Obama and Michelle Obama stepped out one day after UFC fighter Josh Hokit called the former first lady a “man” at a White House event. The couple attended the unveiling of their portrait at Barack’s presidential library in Chicago on Monday, June 15. The painting, which was the pair’s first commissioned portrait together, was […]

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However, UFC CEO Dana White had a different reaction to Hokit’s comment.

“I understand that the Obamas [sic] are public figures but I’m completely against saying nasty and false things about people’s families,” White, 56, said in a text message to Time magazine. “Everyone knows my position on free speech but I hate that kind of nonsense.”

Obama, for her part, has not publicly addressed Hokit’s comment. Us Weekly previously reached out to Obama’s spokesperson for comment but did not hear back.

In case you’re living under a rock, the latest pop culture trend on television is the wild obsession with romantic series featuring hockey. The cross-section of love heating up off the ice began with the incredibly popular guilty pleasure, Heated Rivalry. The baton has since been passed to another book-to-series juicy romance: Off Campus. Created by Louisa Levy, the series is based on the novel series by Elle Kennedy. Set at the fictional Briar University, the show’s first season followed the fake romantic relationship turned genuine romance found in the novel The Deal.

A major reason Off Campus has resonated and taken off so quickly is the incredible characters viewers have fallen in love with. From the girls looking for men with green flags to the boys of the hockey team who have become our latest internet boyfriends, the roster of characters is brought to life by an incredible ensemble. So, which character is the best? It’s time to break down the main and recurring cast from least great to simply the best. While everyone has different criteria for what makes them the best, for this list, we’ll consider on-screen resume and performance. Though this lineup might shift by Season 2, this is how it shakes out after eight enthralling episodes.

14

Phil Graham

Portrayed by Steve Howey

Image via Prime Video

One of the most difficult things a TV fan must do is separate an actor from their previous roles when they take on new ones. Steve Howey will forever be remembered for his role on Reba. He was lovably goofy, and that’s why he was adored. His part on Off Campus couldn’t be further away. Phil Graham serves as the primary antagonist in the overarching narrative that is his son’s life. The father of Garrett Graham (Belmont Cameli), the former hockey star, serves as the root of Garrett’s deepest traumas. Phil is seen for who he is: strict, controlling, and abusive. Phil is a former NHL star and wants the same legacy for his son. What he misses is that this pressure is a major root of his current strain.

The other true flaw, of course, is how he treated a young Garrett and his mother. When we see Phil, he is well-meaning until he’s rattled. Then, his true colors are exposed. By far, one of the darkest moments of the season came during Thanksgiving dinner, in which Garrett discovered that Cindy (Francesca Bianchi), his father’s new girlfriend, was the latest victim of his abuse. If there’s one element about Phil that serves as a positive, it’s that Garrett is fighting everything in his power to avoid turning into his father. And when those signs appear, he makes an effort to change his actions swiftly. Self-awareness makes a green flag boyfriend. That said, when Phil watched his son attack another player on the ice, only to meet him with praise, it only confirmed Phil as the ultimate bad dad.

13

Hunter Davenport

Portrayed by Charlie Evans

Image via Prime Video

Just the name alone — Hunter Davenport — exudes the ick. And well, he lives up to his name in Season 1. Brought to life by Charlie Evans, Hunter is a wealthy freshman hockey recruit who serves as a major source of romantic and on-ice conflict. Hunter plays a role in multiple intertwining plot lines, predominantly via Allie Hayes (Mika Abdalla) and Dean Di Laurentis (Stephen Kalyn). His first foray into the game comes through his bar meet-cute with Allie, where he goes by the name on his fake ID, Carter St. James. Allie clocked that it was not a real name because of the correlation to the character on Glee. As the secret guy Allie sleeps with, his presence becomes a combustible plot device as he has beef with her on-again, off-again new fling, Dean. The duo harbors deep resentment as they attended the same high school, where Hunter had a messy, bitter past with Dean’s sister, Summer, as well as walking away from the Briar U hockey open tryouts. Dean sees him as a selfish dick, which he’s not far off on. He doesn’t have an attitude that you want to be around beyond a one-night stand.

Hunter arrives as a low-stakes fling for Allie post-breakup. Hunter may have seemed as if he were a passing character, but it seems he’ll be a thorn in the Season 2 story’s side. Based on what we’ve seen and what we know, he will absolutely not make things easy for Allie and Dean. If you love juicy drama and a face to place the blame on, Hunter fits the bill. His cliffhanger reveal is the perfect setup for Season 2, as Allie and Dean will be in the spotlight next. For book readers, Hunter takes center stage as the protagonist in The Play, but that storyline seems far away at the moment.

12

Sean

Portrayed by Riley Davis

Image via Prime Video

We’re going to give Sean McCall a bit of grace simply because his relationship demands weren’t necessarily out of line, but as a former theater kid here, he simply didn’t understand how theater careers work. They don’t magically appear following a degree in hand. That said, we give him grace because Allie was for sure not innocent in the demise of their relationship. Sean arrives in Season 1 as Allie’s adorable long-term boyfriend. He’s integrated into the primary friend group, but, as breakups go, once he and Allie were over, he was gone. He’s not a charming-but-villainous individual as the book portrayed him; he’s just a wet blanket of a partner.

Played by Riley Davis, Sean is largely seen as a “bad” boyfriend because he is portrayed as a dull, unsupportive partner who stifles Allie’s desire for excitement. The truth is, he’s not bad — just incompatible. Allie wants more from life, while Sean wants a future of stability. The TV version of Sean is much softer than the manipulative jerk found on the page. This gives a bit of a ding on Allie’s resume when she has a brush with the wild side prior to their split. Sean just didn’t want to partake in a costume party, but we thank him, as the 2026 couple costume will be inspired by Allie and Dean, with people showing up as Jennifer Lopez in the green dress and Maverick from Top Gun.

11

Daveed

Portrayed by Brandon Scott

Image via Prime Video

We all have that one teacher or professor who is meant to inspire us to be the people we are today. For Hannah Wells (Ella Bright), that stand-in figure comes in the form of her music professor and advisor, Daveed. Played by Brandon Scott, Daveed is the vital emotional anchor for Hannah’s music journey. Daveed, as he should, serves as the steady adult figure in Hannah’s life who always shows up when she needs advice without adding unnecessary, chaotic drama. Though he may roll his eyes at the whiplash that she and the school put him through, in the end, his mission is to ensure the best for Hannah. Pretty sure if he had the monetary means to pay for her tuition, he’d front it. Daveed is an exceptional mentor, championing her artistic talent and providing consistent encouragement.

One of his shining moments came when he advised Hannah on finding her true voice, gently pushing her to write music that makes her feel in middle school with artists like Paramore. When he challenges her to step outside her comfort zone, little does he realize that it also helps her romantic prospects. When Hannah became afraid of letting others in and dropping out of the Pop Showcase, he reminded her that allowing the right people in could be the healing that she needed. Of course, when she runs back in, hoping for a spot in the Pop Showcase, he lets her know that the programs still list her name, so her spot is still there. Knowing Daveed, he was never going to give up that opportunity for a student he believed in. Daveed could be higher on this list, but unfortunately, as a storytelling device, he’s forced to be a sustained one-night hero.

10

Dexter

Portrayed by Miles Gutierrez-Riley

Image via Prime Video

The truth about relationships is that when you find your true love, your inner circle slowly falls away. But when you need them, they’re always there for you with a punch of the truth. Such is the case for screen time in Off Campus. The time we did have with Dexter was fantastic, as he showcased how fiercely loyal and brilliantly hilarious he is. Played by Miles Gutierrez-Riley, Dexter is one of Hannah’s most outgoing friends. Dexter is best known for cracking jokes, offering pointed opinions, and supporting Hannah as she develops her complicated feelings for Garrett. Dexter is the friend you go to when you need the mood lightened.

Dexter has a magnetic energy about him. His charisma is simply unmatched. No one has more perfectly timed facial expressions. Whether it’s his witty emceeing in Drunk Shakespeare, making college classes bearable with sly commentary, or the quotable lines that made him a fan favorite, Dexter was more than just the gay best friend; he was iconic. If there is one character who deserves more screen time, it’s Dexter. Perhaps with our other theater diva leading the next season, we might get to see his stage prowess continue.

9

Justin Kohl

Portrayed by Josh Heuston

Image via Prime Video

The action of Season 1 is all because of this guy: music heartthrob Justin Kohl. Justin is the epitome of a crush. He’s a brooding, tattooed, talented guitarist of the band After Hours. As a music major, it’s no wonder Hannah would be enamored by him. Like most of us with a crush, Hannah has little capacity to communicate her feelings for him. Unlike most of us, Hannah hatched a plan with Garrett to fake a romance to make Justin jealous. That was while he was helping her out with writing a song for the Pop Showcase. Though they may have had some collaborative chemistry, as romcoms always prove, it was Garrett all along. Their collaboration fizzled out when Justin went rogue, performed Hannah’s song, which he wrote lyrics to, and then asked her to start over. Not the best means of collaborating! Believe me, I’ve experienced it. That said, the music was a metaphor for their relationship during the season.

Josh Heuston eased into the part of the campus heartthrob, giving him that emo, angsty edge with an aura of mystery that gets the ladies swooning. Heuston made him more than just a plot device, as he told Deadline. “I wanted people to feel for him and empathize in the fact that he’s just trying to follow his heart and see where that takes him, and as opposed to just being the totally typical archetype,” Heuston revealed. Sadly for Justin, his run on Off Campus was a one-and-done; Heuston will not be returning for Season 2, mostly due to availability, according to the showrunner. Since Hannah and Garrett are officially a thing, his part of the story is over — for now. Based on the book, further down the timeline, Justin will find his love with another character named Stella. But we’re not there yet.

8

Beau Maxwell

Portrayed by Khobe Clarke

Image via Prime Video

If you’re a book reader, then you know what Beau Maxwell’s story will eventually be. For those series-only watches, savor the moments with the adorable Beau. Brought to life by Khobe Clarke, Beau is the charismatic star quarterback of the football team. He serves as the bridge that bridges the two sports squads together, as he just so happens to be Dean’s faithful wingman. Beau is loyal and goofy, so basically the epitome of golden retriever energy. He and Allie have a shocking shared interest: musical theater. And yes, they force Dean to experience their musical song geek-out, relishing his displeasure.

As a key cog in Allie and Dean’s story, Beau happens to have a famous sister who is an actor, Joanna Maxwell (Lauren Patten). When Joanna visits campus, Allie fawn’s over her, as they bond over romance. It’s Jo who convinces Allie to let loose at the bar, which ultimately finds her crossing paths with Hunter. If Jo is the devil on the shoulder, Beau is the angel. Widely expanded for the series, Beau serves as the emotional heartbeat of the group. He helps to bring out Dean’s softer side and capacity for deep, connected love. An instant standout character, expect more of Beau to come.

7

John Tucker

Portrayed by Jale Thomas Brooks

Image via Prime Video

John Tucker will likely fall to a higher spot as the series goes on, but compared to the other boys of the Briar U hockey team, he hasn’t had his fully flourishing moments quite yet. That said, we know exactly who we would turn to for a memorable orphans’ Thanksgiving. In a world of green flags, Tucker is the hunky, emotionally available boyfriend material of one of the team. With the boy-next-door vibe, Tucker brings an endearing Texas charm and little brother energy. Raised by a single mother, he acts as the nurturer of the group. He famously cooks for his roommates, leading him to the epic Thanksgiving extravaganza.

What makes Tucker stand out is that he avoids the stereotypical, egotistical jock trope. The only time his negative emotions rise is if you interfere with his kitchen. Even then, Tucker is endearing. He may be the rookie of the team, but actor Jalen Thomas Brooks is the veteran of the cast. Brooks knows a bit or two about fan-favorite TV shows, as he just so happens to play nurse Mateo Diaz on The Pitt. If there’s anyone on the Briar U hockey team who needs a devoted friend, look no further than Tucker.

6

Jules Logan

Portrayed by Julia Sarah Stone

Image via Prime Video

While Off Campus doesn’t have any boy-on-boy romances like Heated Rivalry, it certainly celebrates diversity and visibility thanks to the enigmatic Jules Logan. An original character written for the show, Julie is nonbinary and the younger sibling of hockey star John Logan (Antonio Cipriano). Jules works as the play-by-play commentator and runs the popular campus hockey gossip account known as “Fifth Line.” And even having the pulse on the drama, Jules is nothing but a supportive confidant and internal sounding board for their sibling, especially when struggling with love and their mother.

In the book, Logan has an older brother who served as the family caretaker of the auto-repair shop and their alcoholic parent. Jules takes on this narrative with a fresh take that has received a warm welcome from fans. Brought to life by Julia Sarah Stone, Jules has opened a necessary door for LGBTQ+ representation on the series. Now, for the hockey averse, Jules serves as the translator, explaining the complexities of hockey and the stakes of the game for the audience. With their brother’s love life potentially shaping up for Season 2, expect more great monologues of moral support from Jules to come.

5

Allie Hayes

Portrayed by Mika Abdalla

Image via Prime Video

From a performance perspective, one of the top actors in the ensemble is Mika Abdalla. As Allie Hayes, she lights up the screen every time she’s on it. The only reason she isn’t a bit higher is that some of her more questionable decisions throughout Season 2, compared to those above her. Allie is the witty, devoted bestie to Hannah and the ultimate ride-or-die. Allie is the one you turn to when you need someone to confide in. When Hannah reveals her past trauma, Allie shows unparalleled grace, reminding her friend of her worth. And even though Allie is going through her own struggles, she is more than eager to be the shoulder to cry on. Outwardly, Allie presents herself as a fun, outgoing young woman. Internally, she’s navigating her own path of self-discovery, college life, and romance.

Allie’s season began with Sean, took a detour with Hunter, and got quite steamy with Dean. Her relationship with Sean wasn’t perfect, as she was seeking more in life than just being a partner. She sought out a career that conflicted with his goals. Did she lead him along a bit? Maybe, but the real ding in her resume came with an instant flirtation with Dean. However, once she was free to roam, that’s when we saw the part of Allie we love watching. Between the secret hook-ups to the photo booth escapade and the fantastic Thanksgiving strip chess, the seeds of romance have been officially planted. With Off Campus borrowing the Bridgerton format and passing the focus to a new couple, Allie’s Season 2 will most certainly elevate Off Campus to even greater heights. Allie is one of the most layered individuals with much more to peel back. Her bright energy adds fun, but her softer, more mature interior is what will make the slow-burning romance with Dean one to watch for.

The nature, experiences, and allure of childhood have, for many decades, been one of the most pointed and powerful ideas cinema has explored. It is no surprise that many of the films that have explored youth the best exude an arresting sense of nostalgic yearning, hearkening to the ideal of childhood’s unburdened freedom to capture an air of wonder, possibility, and fun. However, many of the best movies to examine the theme also come with meditations on the loss of innocence, the pressures of family, and the numbing nature in which a child’s naivety clashes with the harshness of reality.

Ranging from underrated classics of the 21st century to iconic blockbusters of the 1980s, these tales of youth are the best depictions of childhood cinema has ever seen. Furthermore, with films from France, Japan, Ireland, Iran, and Sweden as well as America featuring prominently, this collection of movies also showcases the universality of the appeal of childhood as a time of excitement, wonder, and discovery.

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Marking one of the most iconic titles in Hollywood history, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial shines not only as a stunning sci-fi blockbuster, but as one of the most mesmerizing and immersive portrayals of childhood to have ever graced mainstream cinema. Entwined in the magical tale of alien companionship and the efforts to elude government agents, it epitomizes the sheer wonder and adventure of youth with a magnetism that makes everyone who views it feel like a child again.

Steven Spielberg is obviously a master of conjuring such a sense of imaginative awe, but one thing he does brilliantly in E.T. is grounding the movie in moments of heartbreaking drama and, at times, even confronting terror. It captures the full array of experiences and emotions children go through, rather than just romanticizing feelings of glee and excitement. Further supported by the exquisite, characterful puppetry of E.T. and Spielberg’s use of perspective that plants the audience in young Elliott’s (Henry Thomas) view of the world, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is the finest display of childhood awe that blockbuster cinema has ever seen.

‘The Quiet Girl’ (2022)

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While it received widespread critical acclaim and even netted an Academy Award nomination, The Quiet Girl has gone largely unnoticed despite delivering a beautifully poignant exploration of childhood fragility. As one of many siblings living in an impoverished and bitterly dysfunctional household in rural Ireland, Cáit (Catherine Clinch) has grown withdrawn and reclusive. To unburden the stress her family is enduring as her mother manages another pregnancy, she is sent to live with aging distant relatives Eibhlín (Carrie Crowley) and Seán Kinsella (Andrew Bennett) on their farm, where she begins to blossom in their care.

Understated, restrained, and deftly delicate, The Quiet Girl uses its subdued realism to weave an emotionally enrapturing story of neglect, love, and discovery. It marks a masterful directorial debut from Colm Bairéad, who lingers on moments of nuance, connection, and secluded beauty with complete control, conjuring moving sequences where muted gestures and unspoken words become profoundly powerful. It is thematically confronting in how it explores turmoil and mistreatment through the eyes of a child, but it soars with its touching found-family dynamic that finds the warmth and love of childhood even within difficult circumstances.

‘Au revoir les enfants’ (1987)

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With its title translating to “Goodbye Children,” Au revoir les enfants is a somber and sobering descent into the fragility of childhood in the midst of sweeping turmoil and political tension. Set in a French boarding school during WWII, it follows the strained bond that develops between Julien (Gaspard Manesse) and Jean (Raphaël Fejtő), a socially awkward student new to the school who Julien discovers to be a Jew in hiding.

Rather than drifting on sentiment, Au revoir les enfants depicts boyhood in its reality, portraying the students as bawdy, mischievous, and cheekily troublesome youths striving to prove their masculinity to one another. The way director Louis Malle captures this gallivanting while still illustrating the innocence of the characters is astonishing, as is the devastating climax, which shows how innocence doesn’t fade gradually, but often shatters against accountability and brutality.

‘Boyhood’ (2014)

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A masterful encapsulation of childhood and coming-of-age that was ambitiously filmed over 12 years, following the same actors from grade school to young adulthood, Boyhood offers a fluid and grounded depiction of the life of a child. Told through a series of vignettes that capture family gatherings, road trips, birthday parties, and schooling milestones, it follows Mason’s (Ellar Coltrane) formative experiences as he and his sister grow up from being little kids to teenagers on the brink of college.

The stunning scope of the film, presented over the course of a 165-minute runtime, unfolds like a memory of childhood, a blurry yet beautiful procession of important moments that emphasize the quaint details of life. True to director Richard Linklater’s style, Boyhood is a feat of naturalism in cinema, an exploration of the highs and lows of an upbringing under divorced parents that wrestles with the flawed humanity of all its characters through a lens of arresting authenticity.

‘Fanny and Alexander’ (1982)

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Initially released as a five-hour miniseries by Swedish maestro Ingmar Bergman, Fanny and Alexander was trimmed down to a stunning three-hour realization of childhood that contrasts the wondrous freedom of youth against the intimidating vulnerability of helplessness in a world ruled by adults. Set in the early 20th century, it follows siblings Alexander (Bertil Guve) and Fanny Ekdahl (Pernilla Allwin) as they navigate the tumultuous shifts in their peaceful family life in the aftermath of their father’s death and their mother’s marriage to a strict bishop.

Bergman’s ability to explore dichotomy is on full display. The movie dissects both an adult’s vision of the world against a child’s and explores the stark difference between the warmth and tenderness of motherhood and the cold, masculine sterility of fatherhood. Further strengthened by its ability to weave together fantasy and reality, Fanny and Alexander is a masterclass in childhood wonder and a masterpiece of international cinema.

‘I Was Born, But…’ (1932)

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Through its reliance on visual storytelling, particularly in performance, silent comedy cinema often holds a striking sense of sincerity that is emotionally captivating. That is certainly the case with I Was Born, But…, an underrated masterpiece from Japanese filmmaking genius Yasujirō Ozu that unfolds as two young brothers move to Tokyo with their father when he is transferred. As they navigate issues of bullying and social cliques, they must also reckon with a soul-shattering reality when they discover their father, whom they idolize, is routinely ridiculed in his workplace.

Amongst their peers, the boys strive for masculinity. Acts of truancy and aspirations of strength display their desire for power in their naïve vision of the world. But their innocence is inescapable when they are exposed to the true callousness of the world through their father’s mistreatment and their complex feelings of shame, anger, and reluctant acceptance. The fact that the story transpires with such elegance and resonance despite not having dialogue is incredible, making I Was Born, But… a monumental achievement of cinema and a powerful exploration of childhood.

‘Children of Heaven’ (1997)

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While it has perhaps gone unnoticed by the masses, Iranian cinema has been a beacon of excellence in the form on the international stage for many years now. One of the country’s defining masterpieces is Children of Heaven, a poignant and ensnaring family picture of profound humanism. When Ali (Amir Farrokh Hashemian) loses his sister’s shoes while running errands, the two siblings concoct a scheme to keep the accident hidden from their parents. When it becomes increasingly difficult to keep the ruse going, Ali enters a running race to win new shoes.

Anchored by the captivating performances of the two young stars, Children of Heaven enthralls viewers in the adorable yet visceral stakes of the lost shoes, using the issue to explore childhood morality, sibling bonds, and the fine balance between innocence and accountability. Exuding an air of wonder, charm, and joyous adventure with sublime tenderness, the Iranian film is an emotionally gripping immersion into the ideals and troubles of childhood.

‘Stand By Me’ (1986)

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Directed by Rob Reiner and based on the Stephen King novella The Body, Stand by Me explores a fascinating stage of a child’s development, the fleeting moment on the cusp of adolescence as youthful curiosity clashes with teenage recklessness. Following four friends as they venture into the woods to see a dead body, its premise is laced with an interest in violence that so many young boys think makes them manly, but its execution is defined by the boys’ underlying innocence and their beautiful friendship.

Reiner’s direction makes the film a masterful immersion in the emotions of youth that is nostalgic and piercing without relying on sentiment. Its tragic finale, punctuated by the beautifully worded observation, “I never had any friends later on like the ones I had when I was twelve. Jesus, does anyone?” which embodies the perfection of Stand by Me and the precision with which it captures the essence of boyhood in all its bittersweet glory.

‘Cinema Paradiso’ (1988)

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An ode to cinema and the influences in childhood that shape our lives, Cinema Paradiso is a gorgeous and soulful drama of human connection, community, and the uniting force of art. After hearing about the death of the projectionist from his hometown, an Italian director reflects on his childhood and his formative relationship with Alfredo (Philippe Noiret), who cultivated his passion for cinema and helped him in his adolescence as he struggled with the agony of first love.

Complemented by Ennio Morricone’s beautiful score, Cinema Paradiso relishes the journey of life and the way the memories of youth, infused with an idealized air of mischief, magic, and wonder, last a lifetime. Its final act, following the director as he returns to his hometown to attend Guido’s funeral, becomes a bittersweet meditation on the fragility of childhood recollections against the brutality of the passage of time. Made truly unforgettable by its astonishing final moments that encapsulate the glory of cinema and memory, Cinema Paradiso is a heartwarming depiction of childhood at its most wondrous and pure.

‘The 400 Blows’ (1959)

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Authentic and compassionate in its examination of childhood innocence in the harshness of the real world, The 400 Blows is viewed by many as being the ultimate exploration of youth in cinema. Directed by French filmmaking legend François Truffaut, it follows young Antoine (Jean-Pierre Léaud), a neglected boy misunderstood by his parents and tormented by his teacher due to his rebellious behavior, as he abandons his schooling and embarks on a life of petty crime that leads him to a juvenile detention center.

Under Truffaut’s sympathetic lens, Antoine’s story isn’t presented as a nihilistic tragedy, but as a complex and sincere examination of troubled youth where reckless decisions and inevitable consequences are offset by beats of friendship, camaraderie, and innocent joy. The 400 Blows holds strong criticisms of the world, but it places them at the feet of adults rather than at the whims of a child’s struggles. In doing this, it balances misbehavior with vulnerability, and emerges as the most piercing, powerful, and essential depiction of childhood.