Inga Parkel

Netflix is casting U.S. adults who have experienced significant weight loss for Weight to Date, a documentary-style reality dating series following roughly 10 to 12 singles as they navigate dating, identity and relationships after major body transformations. The show has no announced premiere date. Its casting call comes amid rising U.S. use of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy, which have also been discussed publicly by Serena Williams and Chrissy Metz.

Ethan Suplee recalled that Hayden Panettiere’s warmth briefly comforted him at the Remember the Titans premiere, even as he was struggling with heroin addiction. He said he smoked heroin in a bathroom before and during the event, felt ashamed when meeting the real-life man he portrayed, and went to bed believing he might not survive. Suplee shared the story while mourning Panettiere, whose death at 36 was reported as involving cardiac arrest; officials found no trauma or foul play, while an investigation continued amid reports of a possible overdose. Panettiere had previously spoken publicly about opioid and alcohol addiction in her memoir, This Is Me: A Reckoning.

Adeola Adeyemo, a recent high school graduate from Tampa, Florida, earned 40 scholarships after applying for more than 200, enabling her to attend Princeton University despite making affordability her top college-selection priority. She plans to study Operations Research and Financial Engineering and continue applying for scholarships. The story highlights the sharp rise in private-university costs, with Princeton’s estimated annual tuition, housing, food and books totaling nearly $95,000, and notes that relatively few students obtain private scholarships. Economist Richard Vedder attributes part of escalating college prices to the expansion of federal student loan programs.

Cast members of Apple TV+’s Widow’s Bay have shared ideas for a potential second season after the show’s first season ended with its mayor recognizing that the town’s curse is real. Matthew Rhys suggested a supernatural mission to break the curse and save his son, while Dale Dickey proposed a dangerous search for a sea hag and Katie O’Flynn imagined a period-drama storyline involving her character’s ancestor. The series received 19 Emmy nominations, including acting nominations for Rhys and several co-stars, and has been renewed for a second season, though creator Katie Dippold has not disclosed her plans.

Miss Universe Canada cultural liaison Ashley Callingbull paused the pageant after contestants Karisa Haverkamp and Jasleen Kaily wore Indigenous-inspired costumes during the national costume competition. Callingbull described the outfits as cultural appropriation, prompting organizer Sonny Borrelli to apologize and appoint her as the pageant’s cultural liaison. Both contestants also apologized, while Kaily said unclear competition guidelines contributed to the incident.

Lionel Richie mocked Usher and Chris Brown’s joint Raymond & Brown: R&B tour during a concert with Earth, Wind & Fire, arguing that co-headlining stadium shows were not innovative because The Commodores and Earth, Wind & Fire had done similar performances decades earlier. He also joked about the pair’s legal histories before apologizing and clarifying his remarks. The piece notes Chris Brown’s past conviction for assaulting Rihanna and subsequent legal troubles, as well as Richie’s recent concert cancellations and health-related incidents. Usher and Brown’s tour is scheduled to continue across major US cities through its December 12 finale in Tampa, Florida.

Jeremy Strong said he emailed Mark Zuckerberg before filming The Social Reckoning to explain that he was taking the role seriously and intended to portray him with respect. Strong studied Zuckerberg’s interviews, summit appearances and congressional testimony in preparation. Aaron Sorkin’s sequel to The Social Network will examine the legal and social consequences facing Facebook after former employee Frances Haugen leaked documents about Meta’s awareness of harms linked to its platforms. Jesse Eisenberg declined to return as Zuckerberg, while Strong stars alongside Mikey Madison, Jeremy Allen White and others. The film is scheduled for theatrical release on October 9.

Sunny Sandler is receiving broadly positive early reviews for her first major lead role in Netflix’s coming-of-age dramedy Don’t Say Good Luck. She plays Sophie, a high-school theater student whose life is disrupted when her mother’s cancer returns, opposite Melanie Lynskey, Max Greenfield and Steve Buscemi. Critics praise Sandler’s emotional authenticity and chemistry with Lynskey, while some note weaknesses in the film’s cornier elements and her understated stage performance. The film is inspired by director Julia Hart’s childhood and is produced by Sandler’s father, Adam Sandler.

Ariana Grande appears to have publicly confirmed a rekindled romance with backup dancer Ricky Alvarez, whom she dated from 2015 to 2016. The relationship reportedly resumed slowly following Grande’s breakup with Wicked co-star Ethan Slater. Grande has also announced plans to step back from public-facing work after her Eternal Sunshine tour amid intense scrutiny of her health and appearance.

Cookie Queens, a Girl Scout documentary executive-produced by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle through Archewell Productions, earned $327,797 worldwide after opening in 446 theaters and failed to reach the weekend’s top 10. CatVideoFest 2026, a 70-minute compilation released in 255 theaters, ranked tenth with $568,414. Distributor Roadside Attractions said the film performed well at specialty venues and multiplexes, particularly among Girl Scouts and former troop members, and expressed confidence in its continued theatrical life.

Lindsey Buckingham says he and former Fleetwood Mac bandmate Stevie Nicks are now speaking regularly after years of estrangement, including a major rupture following his 2018 dismissal from the band. He attributes their reconciliation partly to work on a Fleetwood Mac documentary and the re-release of their 1973 album Buckingham Nicks. Both musicians have hinted that further developments could emerge, though neither has confirmed a reunion or new joint musical project.

QVC host Toni Brattin accidentally used an NSFW word while demonstrating her Salon Select Wig during a live broadcast, then recovered as co-host Terri Conn took over. The clip went viral after being shared on Instagram and X, attracting more than 11 million views and widespread amusement. QVC praised Brattin’s professionalism, while Brattin embraced the incident and shared Jimmy Fallon’s comedic reaction on The Tonight Show.

Antonio Banderas explains that he always expected his time in Hollywood to be temporary and returned to Málaga in 2017 after a near-fatal heart attack. The health scare changed his priorities, leading him to focus more on family, friends and the essence of acting. He also reflects warmly on his former marriage to Melanie Griffith and their continued friendship. Banderas now stars in Tony, a film about Anthony Bourdain's early experiences in restaurant kitchens.

Jeff Bezos and Leonardo DiCaprio have launched the Phoenix Species Project, a $200 million initiative through the Bezos Earth Fund and Re:wild to help recover 100 critically endangered species across 30 countries. Critics accuse the billionaires of greenwashing, arguing that Bezos’s wealth and Amazon’s data-center expansion contribute to environmental harm and that the project is largely reputational. Supporters defend DiCaprio’s longstanding conservation work and suggest he is directing Bezos’s money toward a beneficial cause. The initiative’s organizers describe it as the largest single philanthropic effort dedicated to recovering critically endangered species.

Jill Biden said Joe Biden's frequent nighttime urination—getting up as many as seven times a night—prompted her to seek further medical attention after White House doctors failed to resolve the issue. Biden was diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer in May 2025, which had metastasized to his bones, and later began radiation and hormone therapy. Jill described ongoing monitoring and treatment as a constant challenge, while Joe has said his treatment is going well and expressed gratitude for public support.

Phil Collins recalled being deeply impressed by Taylor Swift’s performance of “White Horse” at the 2010 Songwriters Hall of Fame induction ceremony, years before her global success. He said the song’s simplicity, sentiment and vocal performance left him with a lasting soft spot for it. The piece also notes Swift’s later Hall of Fame recognition and reports Collins’s recent seven-month intensive-care stay, which he attributed to an alcohol relapse and which left him with severe kidney, pancreatic and mobility problems.

Pauline Kana, a 100-year-old Ohio social media personality known as Gangster Granny, attributes her longevity to staying busy, keeping physically active, eating foods she enjoys in moderation, laughing, having a sense of purpose and embracing adventure. Her grandson Ross Smith helps produce comedy videos featuring her, while her life has included wartime work, employment at several companies, recovery from colon cancer and high-profile adventures such as setting a Guinness World Record for crowd surfing.

Heat and sunlight can increase the migration of chemicals and microplastics from disposable PET water bottles, although claims that heated bottles release cancer-causing dioxins are described as debunked. Warm bottles can also support rapid bacterial growth, particularly when saliva or drink residue is present. Because the health effects of microplastics remain uncertain, experts recommend discarding water left in a hot car and using clean, regularly washed stainless-steel or glass bottles instead; reusable plastic bottles may be preferable to single-use ones but can still degrade over time.

Slipknot guitarist Jim Root urged followers not to believe unverified reports and to wait for more information after TMZ claimed that DJ and keyboardist Sid Wilson had been permanently dismissed from the band. Slipknot and Wilson had not responded to requests for comment. The report also reviews Wilson’s history with the group, his former engagement to Kelly Osbourne, and Slipknot’s past lineup changes.

Hannah Waddingham says her 5-foot-11 height, which reaches about 6-foot-2 in heels, led to repeated rejections for acting roles because productions had already cast a taller male counterpart. She argues that tall women can have the same vulnerabilities as shorter women and says her height is now an asset, particularly in her role as Rebecca on Ted Lasso. Waddingham also discusses rejecting cosmetic surgery and feeling more confident at 52. Ted Lasso will return for a fourth season on Apple TV+, with Waddingham, Jason Sudeikis, Brendan Hunt and several other cast members reprising their roles as the story shifts toward a women's soccer team.

Rahsaan Rogers has left The Howard Stern Show after 16 years, following roles as a producer, editor and on-air host of several Stern-related programs. His departure comes amid reported layoffs affecting roughly a dozen staffers, many of whom are seeking better severance packages than the initial offer of one week’s pay for each year worked. Rogers is now pursuing senior production, hosting and consulting opportunities in podcasting and audio. The program has aired on SiriusXM since 2006 and remains hosted by Howard Stern alongside Robin Quivers.

Camryn Manheim has drawn attention from fans after appearing noticeably slimmer at the opening night of Rosie O’Donnell’s off-Broadway show, prompting comments that she looked “unrecognizable.” The actor, known for roles in The Practice and Law & Order, has spoken publicly for decades about her struggles with weight and society’s fixation on thinness. Her 1998 Emmy acceptance speech honored “all the fat girls,” and she has said that her career is defined by her power and spirit rather than her size. The article does not identify how she lost weight.

Shania Twain described growing up in a physically abusive home in Timmins, Ontario, where she witnessed her mother being abused by her stepfather and said she and her siblings were also physically mistreated. She began singing in local bars at eight to help support the family. After her parents died in a car crash when she was 22, Twain paused her music career to raise her three younger siblings before signing her first record deal at 27.

John Oliver mocked Buc-ee’s alleged aggressive enforcement of its beaver-logo trademark after the Texas convenience-store chain sued more than a dozen businesses using cartoon animal mascots. He highlighted demands made against apparel brand Nut Huggers and questioned the company’s claim that its branding could be confused with a wide range of animal logos. Oliver launched limited-edition “Buc-Off” merchandise featuring the Last Week Tonight squirrel mascot, with proceeds going to Hunger Free America, while Buc-ee’s has prevailed in many cases after defendants settled. The Independent sought comment from Buc-ee’s.

Author Tomi Adeyemi says working on Paramount Pictures’ film adaptation of Children of Blood and Bone was the worst experience of her life, alleging that she left the set hyperventilating and sobbing and later suffered severe physical pain and panic attacks. She declined to specify the underlying problems, but said she continued to feel antagonized behind the scenes and wanted audiences to understand her experience before the film’s release. The article also reports a dispute between Adeyemi and cast member Amandla Stenberg, whose casting had previously drawn accusations of colorism from some book fans. The film, directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, is scheduled to premiere on January 15, 2027.

Sandra Oh said she has no plans to return to Grey’s Anatomy, explaining that she believes Cristina Yang’s story reached a satisfying conclusion after 10 years. She recalled weighing creator Shonda Rhimes’s offer to continue, ultimately deciding that she had fully developed the character and completed her work on the series. Oh also discussed originally auditioning for Chandra Wilson’s role before choosing Cristina, and described how an earlier work session helped producers recognize her suitability for the part. Cristina’s final storyline took her to Switzerland to lead a hospital founded by her former fiancé.

Alan Ritchson described a physical confrontation with Tennessee neighbor Ronnie Taylor as the scariest experience of his life. Ritchson said Taylor blocked his motorcycle, aggressively confronted him and shoved him and the bike to the ground, prompting him to punch Taylor while trying to protect himself and his sons. Police concluded that Ritchson acted in self-defense, and he did not face criminal charges. Ritchson said the incident and its effect on his children left him angry and resentful, although he ultimately decided to let it go.

John Cena revealed a new buzz cut at San Diego Comic-Con as part of his recovery from a second hair transplant, performed in June by Georgia-based doctor Ken Anderson. Cena said the second procedure lasted eight hours, compared with 13 and a half hours for his first transplant in November 2024, and that shaving his head made it easier to preserve and implant follicles. He said fan criticism of his bald spots contributed to his decision to undergo surgery, describing the comments as bullying, but expressed full trust in Anderson and optimism about the results.

Simone Biles shared a hospital selfie after undergoing an undisclosed procedure, weeks after describing a serious medical emergency that she said nearly killed her. She has not revealed the nature of either the emergency or the procedure. Biles also explained that a trip to Belize was part of her recovery after receiving criticism for vacation photos. The seven-time Olympic gold medalist has not announced whether she will compete at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.

Netflix has reversed its plan to end Tyler Perry’s drama Beauty in Black after season three and renewed it for a fourth season ahead of the third season’s premiere. The renewal follows the strong performance of season two, which spent six weeks in Netflix’s Global Top 10 and reached No. 1 in 17 countries. Production on season three has finished, but no release date has been announced. The forthcoming storyline will follow Kimmie as she navigates power struggles, blackmail, revenge and a deadly feud within the Bellarie family.

Experts highlight that the cardiovascular benefits of walking depend more on intensity than frequency. Raising heart rate into moderate or higher training zones, such as through brisk pacing, hills or short high‑intensity bursts, delivers the greatest health impact. Studies suggest that walking at about 100 steps per minute provides moderate intensity, with even short sessions improving blood pressure, blood glucose and overall mortality risk.

A memoir by Dan Tana’s daughters recounts the Hollywood history of their father’s iconic West Hollywood restaurant, highlighting its celebrity clientele and memorable stories involving figures such as O.J. Simpson, John Belushi and Jay Sebring. The book reflects Tana’s preference for everyday patrons despite the restaurant’s fame and revisits tragic events linked to several well-known guests.

Actor Jesse L. Martin recounted an encounter with the widower of a Manhattan murder victim who feared a Law & Order episode inspired by the case might affect the ongoing trial. Martin sought help from producers and emphasized that the show alters real events, though the man believed the storyline closely resembled the actual crime. The unnamed episode proceeded, with Martin maintaining it was not a direct retelling. The article also notes the show's history, cast, and spin-offs, including its renewal for a 26th season.

Ariana Grande has exited American Horror Story season 13 due to a scheduling conflict with her ongoing Eternal Sunshine Tour, having not yet filmed any scenes. The new season, premiering on 24 September on FX and streaming on Hulu the following day, features returning cast members including Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters, Kathy Bates and Jessica Lange, along with new additions Paul Anthony Kelly, Berto Colón and Joey Pollari. Grande continues her tour and will soon release her seventh studio album, Petal, while the series prepares its return following a poorly received twelfth season.

Christopher Nolan argues that younger filmmakers are rejecting the rise of AI in filmmaking, favoring practical and tactile methods instead. Citing both industry examples and his own children’s reactions, he sees this trend as encouraging for the future of cinema. His upcoming film, The Odyssey, made with extensive practical effects, has earned strong early praise and is described as his most ambitious work yet.

Kathy Griffin introduced a new 22-year-old boyfriend on Instagram, prompting supportive reactions noting the double standard surrounding age-gap relationships. She has a history of dating younger men, including her ex-husband Randy Bick and a previous relationship with a man in his twenties, which she said helped her reconnect with her emotions after divorce.

A court ordered Charlie Sheen to pay Brooke Mueller $500,000 in back child support and $60,000 in attorney fees after reviewing claims of unpaid support dating back to 2011. Mueller had sought $15 million, alleging years of missed payments, while Sheen argued he had full custody at times. The ruling allows payments in two installments. Court filings show the pair share joint custody, with the children living primarily with Sheen amid ongoing monitoring requirements for Mueller. Sheen described his sons positively and noted Mueller’s limited involvement due to personal struggles.

Russell Crowe lost nearly 60 pounds after gaining weight to portray Roger Ailes and Hermann Göring, revealing that stem cell treatments, reduced inflammation, and a wellness program helped him return to fitness. He credited Ways2Well, stem cell injections, and cutting back on alcohol for improving his health and enabling effective workouts. Photos shared on social media show his renewed physique as he celebrated his son’s birthday.

Olivia Wilde surprised Penélope Cruz during a promotional interview for their new film The Invite by whispering the name of a rumored Hollywood swinger. Cruz denied any knowledge of such behavior in the industry, prompting playful back‑and‑forth between the co‑stars. The film, which follows a couple drawn into a partner‑swapping proposition, is receiving strong early acclaim and marks Wilde’s third feature as director. Wilde also shared her views on modern relationships, arguing they are no longer mandatory and should not be considered embarrassing.

HBO Max removed all seasons of Samurai Jack from its US streaming catalog, prompting fan frustration and criticism. The series is now available for free with ads on Adult Swim’s website and app. Fans urged others to buy physical media to support the creators. The article notes that major streaming platforms regularly cycle content, citing Netflix’s recent removal of Gilmore Girls as another example that upset viewers.

South African influencer Nara Smith revealed that her two‑year‑old daughter, Whimsy, was diagnosed with cancer late last year, prompting immediate chemotherapy. She recounted the initial signs, the medical process leading to the diagnosis, and the emotional impact on their family. Smith said she has found comfort by connecting with other parents facing similar challenges and explained that balancing hospital visits, postpartum recovery, work, and caring for her other children has made life increasingly difficult. She also addressed ongoing accusations of being a “tradwife,” explaining her personal choice to become a young mother and rejecting the label.

A TikTok creator known for acts of kindness surprised a nine-year-old boy selling drinks in Los Angeles by buying out his inventory and giving him two tickets to a World Cup match. The boy and his father attended the South Africa–Canada game at SoFi Stadium, where Canada won 1–0. The boy shared a message about equality and expressed amazement at the experience.

A Los Angeles jury ordered Chris Brown to pay $12.9 million to former housekeeper Maria Avila after she was severely mauled by his guard dog in 2020, concluding a five-year legal battle. Additional awards went to Avila’s sister and husband for emotional distress. Brown conceded partial responsibility but disputed the extent of the injuries and argued that warnings were given about the dog. Testimony detailed significant physical and psychological harm, and the dog was later euthanized after being deemed dangerous. Avila’s legal team welcomed the ruling as overdue justice.

Kathie Lee Gifford reflects on recent years marked by chronic pain, multiple surgeries, and physical strain from her long entertainment career, admitting moments of emotional struggle while emphasizing she never intended self-harm. She recounts injuries, treatments, and intensive therapy that have helped her regain mobility, allowing her to stay active with her grandchildren. The piece also reviews her television career, including her partnership with Regis Philbin, her return to morning TV alongside Hoda Kotb, and her eventual departure from the Today show.

Taylor Sheridan dismisses criticism of his portrayal of women and admits to intentionally provoking critics, saying he does not care about their opinions. He explains that Demi Moore’s limited role in the first season of Landman was planned and that her character becomes central in the second season. Despite the broad success of his shows, Sheridan’s work has not been recognized by the Emmys, which Billy Bob Thornton attributes to misconceptions about Sheridan’s politics. Sheridan says he aims to tell stories for everyday audiences rather than pursue awards.

Lily Allen defended her West End Girl tour after a fan’s viral post criticized ticket prices, show length and lack of audience interaction. She explained the presence of a support act, her brief lateness and the artistic choice to perform the album uninterrupted without speaking. The fan later clarified they enjoyed the performance but maintained concerns over cost. The article highlights the critical praise for Allen’s latest album and outlines her ongoing international tour dates.

Daveigh Chase, known for roles in The Ring and Lilo & Stitch, died at 35 from AIDS with chronic polysubstance use contributing, according to the L.A. County Medical Examiner. Her boyfriend had previously reported she was critically ill with meningitis and blood infections. Family and associates described her long battle with addiction, homelessness, and legal troubles, with her mother recounting years of searching for her after she fled custody and continued drug use. Her former manager noted past rehab attempts and her disappearance from professional circles.

Fans pointed out a possible continuity error in the final season of The Bear involving Sydney’s description of her favorite dish, though others argued the change was intentional to show her reluctance to open up to Carmy. Viewers debated the scene online while the series’ later seasons continued to receive mixed reactions despite earlier critical acclaim. The final season is now available on Hulu.

Rumors point to Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce marrying on July 3 at Madison Square Garden, supported by permit filings and comments from New York City’s mayor. Plans reportedly include a smaller gathering on July 2 and a larger event the following day. High-profile guests such as Suki Waterhouse, Selena Gomez, and Ed Sheeran are expected, while some friends are reportedly excluded. Stevie Nicks and Tim McGraw are rumored performers, with various hints linking them to the celebration.