Normal view

There are new articles available, click to refresh the page.
Today — 9 January 2025Entertainment News

Tori Spelling's Mom Candy Loses $23 Million Home in L.A. Wildfires

9 January 2025 at 12:53
Tori Spelling Mom Candy Loses 23 Million Dollar Home in LA Wildfires
Candy Spelling and Tori Spelling. Courtesy of Tori Spelling/Instagram

Candy Spelling’s Malibu mansion was burned to the ground amid the ongoing wildfires sweeping the city.

“I’m in shock and processing this massive loss for our family,” Spelling, 79, told TMZ on Thursday, January 9. “I am beyond grateful for the memories. It was truly a wonderful gift to have.”

Candy further noted to the outlet that her late husband, Aaron Spelling, equally loved the $23 million house. (Candy and the famed TV producer, who died in 2006 at the age of 83, shared daughter Tori Spelling and son Randy Spelling.)

“I’m devastated. I have so many memories in this house,” Million Dollar Listing: Los Angeles star Josh Flagg, who is a friend of Candy’s, later told TMZ on Thursday. “The house is gone but the memories are not. This is a total shame. This entire fire is a shame. This did not need to happen.”

Tori Spelling and Mom Candy Spelling's Ups and Downs Over the Years

Neither Tori, 51, nor Randy, 46, have publicly addressed the loss of their family home but have both been outspoken about lending support to others in need during the wildfires.

“The fires in Los Angeles have been devastating,” Randy wrote via Instagram Story on Wednesday, January 8. “Lives lost, so many have lost their homes. I’m praying the fires can be put out soon and people can begin to heal from this.”

Tori Spelling Mom Candy Loses 23 Million Dollar Home in LA Wildfires
Tori Spelling, Candy Spelling and Randy Spelling. Courtesy of Tori Spelling/Instagram

He added, “It’s going to be a long process. To all my L.A. friends and family, I love you all.”

Randy also shared various links of resources for individuals affected by the natural disaster. Tori, meanwhile, uploaded a GoFundMe link after her “dear friend” Peter Ferreiro’s house was torched.

Celebrities Share Personal Photos of Heartbreaking Los Angeles Wildfires

“My dear friend @peterferriero lost everything,” Tori wrote via her Stories. “Pls help if you can.”

Ferriero, who hosts a Beverly Hills: 90210 recap podcast, had lost his home in the blaze.

“Please help us. Our home is destroyed. We have lost pretty much everything inside of it,” Ferriero wrote on Wednesday, sharing a GoFundMe link. “I don’t do this kind of thing. But literally we need all the help we can get right now. If I ever did a thing for you please remember it now.”

Former child star David Lascher replied, “I’m so sorry” and “Call me.”

Wildfires broke out in the Pacific Palisades on Tuesday, January 7, rapidly devastating thousands of buildings. Many celebrities who live in the area have already lost their homes and personal effects. Others, meanwhile, evacuated out of the city limits to safety.

Check the LAFD website for local wildfire alerts and click here for resources on how to help those affected.

15 Tummy Control Jeans From Amazon That Channel Rich Mom Style

9 January 2025 at 12:51

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of having that “go-to” pair of jeans that gives you a surge of confidence every time you wear them. If you’ve been needing a new pair in your collection, look no further. We’ve found 15 tummy-control jeans from Amazon — and they start at just $23.

These aren’t just any tummy control jeans though, our lineup includes styles that totally channel the viral rich mom aesthetic. This means that at the same time they’ll be giving you a slimmer-looking appearance, they’ll also elevate your wardrobe as well. Shop everything from high rise ankle styles with ab solution, to straight leg styles with lift tuck technology.

17 Hamptons-Chic Sweaters for That East Coast Rich Mom Look

15 Tummy Control Jeans From Amazon That Slim the Figure Rich Mom Style 

1. Our Absolute Favorite: Not only do these figure-flattering jeans have a tummy control waist, their wide leg design is slimming as well!

2. Seriously Slimming: Made specifically to flatter the stomach, these high rise ankle jeans have “ab solution” technology that has hidden elastic slimming panels!

3. Lift Tuck Technology: Featuring their “lift tuck” technology, NYDJ Marilyn Straight jeans have a slimming panel that helps to flatten the stomach!

4. A Major Deal: If you’re looking for a pair while on a budget, you’ll definitely want to check out this $23 best-selling pair that has a high rise design!

5. Better Bootcut: One of the best styles if you’re a bootcut lover are the Lee Ultra Lux Comfort jeans that are made with a flexible, non-binding waistband.

6. All Day Comfort: Guaranteed to keep you comfortable throughout the day are these elastic waist jeans that are made of a breathable, soft and stretchy cotton and elastane fabric blend!

15 Luxe-Looking Nordstrom New Arrivals to Refresh Your Closet

7. New and Notable: A number one new release on Amazon, shoppers are already obsessed with these soft and stretchy high waisted jeans!

8. Tummy-Shaping: Not only will the internal panel of these pull-on bootcut jeans be figure-slimming, their elastic waistline will also keep you comfy too!

9. Chic and Shaping: We all need a pair of shaping skinny jeans in our closet for wearing with knee-high boots in the winter!

10. Curve-Friendly: These shaping straight jeans from Levi Strauss were designed specifically to hug and contour the curves!

11. Retro Flair: Bring 70s-chic flair into your closet with these retro-style wide leg jeans that are made with a stretchy fabric and high rise waistline.

12. Designer-Looking: Get designer style for a fraction of the price with these luxe-looking straight jeans that have a high waistline that’s made to slenderize the area!

13. Boutique Style: A brand you can often find at fancy boutiques, these tummy control jeans from Judy Blue are a popular pick amongst women!

14. Celeb Favorite: Celebs like Zooey Deschanel love these classic straight jeans from Levi’s that are made with a slim fit mid rise waist!

15. Lift and Sculpt: Like other jeans from the brand, these wide leg jeans from NYDJ feature their lift tuck technology, except these have a trouser-like design!

11 Comfy Knit Pants That Are Beyond Flattering — Starting at $15

Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click on a link and make a purchase. Learn more!

© Edward Berthelot / Contributor

Zac Efron’s Family Guide: Meet Brother Dylan, Sister Olivia and More

9 January 2025 at 12:50

Zac Efron has been open about his bond with his family over the years.

Zac, who rose to fame after playing Troy Bolton in Disney Channel’s High School Musical franchise, is the eldest of three. Even at the height of his career, Zac opted to live with his brother, Dylan Efron.

“Yes, I mean most of the time [he is a good roommate]. He’s my little brother. He looks after the house while I’m gone,” the actor said during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live in May 2017. “We’re cool like that. I trust him, he’s a good dude. I trust him with the house. I came home [recently] and it was very clear that the cleaning lady had been there just minutes before I arrived.”

Fans got to see the dynamic between the duo when they teamed up on screen for season 2 of Zac’s Down to Earth series. Dylan, for his part, served as a producer on the Netflix series.

Later that year, Dylan took to social media to praise Zac for being a role model for him. “More than ever I’ve realized how much you’ve always been there for me,” he wrote via Instagram in October 2022. “Thanks for growin’ up with me and being my role model. Happy Bday brother.”

Scroll down for a guide to Zac’s family:

© Courtesy of Zac Efron/Instagram

© Courtesy of Zac Efron/Instagram

Zac revealed that his father encouraged him to do musicals in high school. "I lived a normal childhood in a middle-class family," the Baywatch actor told The Star in 2007. "When I was younger, I didn't even know this business existed."

© Courtesy of Zac Efron/Instagram

Zac's parents met at a power plant in the '80s where his father was an engineer and his mother was a secretary. They called it quits in 2016 after welcoming two kids together.

© Courtesy of Dylan Efron/Instagram

"It was interesting because I was always really big for my age, and Zac was pretty small for his age. We were always fighting with each other," Dylan told BroBible in January 2021 about his dynamic with his older brother. "But I would say that we grew up super combative, just because we’re so different and he was so much older. We were just into different things."
Dylan added: "And then once I graduated college, Zac really took me under his wing and let me live with him when I got my first job in Los Angeles. He really became that older brother, and that’s when I would say we grew closer than ever. Our relationship was something that developed more as we both became adults and stopped fighting so much."

© Courtesy of Zac Efron/Instagram

Zac became a big brother again in 2019 after his father welcomed daughter Olivia with his second wife, Jenny.

© Courtesy of Zac Efron/Instagram

Zac's father and his second wife expanded their family with son Henry.

This Build Your Own Bitters Set Is Perfect for Elevated Mocktails

9 January 2025 at 12:50

Do you ever feel like wanting to relax and have fun with a nice drink but don’t want the hangover that comes with it? We get it. Whether you’re into hard liquor or want to chill with a non-alcoholic option to wet your whistle, investing in a set of bitters can help elevate your experience no matter what. Bitters have a distinct flavor that works for pairing and mixing or simply changing the taste of your drink. We found a build-your-own bitters set that’s perfect for making non-alcoholic beverages or elevating your libations — and you can get it now at El Guapo!

This El Guapo Build Your Own Bitters Set is perfect for the person who loves to unwind after work with a drink but doesn’t want the added effects of alcohol. It contains four bitters and comes in 11 flavors that will add a distinct twist to any drink. Further, they’re healthy, and each bitters bottle lists drink options that pair well with each type.

To use these bitters, all you do is add a few dashes of your chosen bitter to your beverage and enjoy the essence of having an alcoholic drink without the alcohol. It’s literally that easy — seriously!

While reviewing and raving over this bitters set, one reviewer noted, “These are hands down some of the best bitters and syrups on the market. We are a husband and wife team crafting cocktails for IG, and these are superb! We can’t recommend them enough to family, friends and followers.”

Another reviewer said, “I enjoyed the Fuego Bitters in a Sotol & Prickly Pear Ranch Water and used the Cuban Bitters as an addition to a Mojito.  It’s been fun experimenting with the flavors in familiar cocktails.”

So, if you’re looking for an easy way to amplify your beverage choices without the after-effects of alcohol — while still having a great time — this bitters set from El Guapo can help!

Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click on a link and make a purchase. Learn more!

© El Guapo

Bethenny Frankel Had a Bizarre Experience at ‘It Ends With Us’ Premiere

9 January 2025 at 12:48
Bethenny Frankel Also Says She Had Bizarre Experience at the It Ends With Us Premiere
Gotham/WireImage

Bethenny Frankel knew something was amiss at the It Ends With Us premiere, even if she didn’t know what it was at the time.

Five months later, Frankel, 54, has a better idea of what happened. Around the time of the film’s New York City premiere, rumors started swirling about a rift between its stars Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni.

Lively, 37, has since sued Baldoni, 40, alleging sexual harassment on set. Baldoni has denied those claims and, in a lawsuit against The New York Times for its reporting on the controversy, alleged that Lively pursued a “strategic and manipulative” smear campaign against him.

A lawyer for Baldoni also said that he plans to sue Lively on behalf of his client.

Bethenny Frankel Has a ‘Disaster’ Wardrobe Malfunction at Movie Premiere

But none of that was public knowledge when Frankel walked the red carpet at the AMC Lincoln Square in August 2024. The Real Housewives of New York City alum took to TikTok on Wednesday, January 8, to share her strange experience with her followers.

“I have the craziest It Ends With Us premiere story that I totally forgot about and am putting the pieces together now,” she began. “And I’m gonna share something with you. I haven’t told anyone because I thought it would get me canceled.”

The story starts off innocently enough, with Frankel describing her pink dress then finding an odd hour-long break between the red carpet and the actual film screening. To kill time, she and her friend Danielle had a few margaritas and even encountered Anna Wintour.

When they returned to the theater, they briefly met with Baldoni, who appeared on Frankel’s “Just B” podcast two years prior.

Then it got weird. Frankel recalled seeing Baldoni walk into one theater and followed him in, assuming that’s where the screening was.

Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni's Reported 'It Ends With Us' Drama Explained

“Always, unless it’s a weird, different screening, the premiere is in one giant theater and there might be an overflow theater. But here, he’s in one theater, something’s going on somewhere else,” she described. “So they take us and they put us all the way to the left in this theater where nobody was. It felt like everyone was separated.”

Baldoni has since accused Lively of trying to ban him from the movie premiere despite him also directing the film. In his lawsuit against the Times, Baldoni claimed he and his family were “escorted into a separate theater” to watch the movie after Lively had left.

“What I didn’t tell anybody because I was like, ‘We’ll be canceled,’ was we left because the vibes were not vibing,” Frankel continued. “Wasted hair, makeup, outfit to go to the city, drink a margarita in a mason jar, take a bucket of popcorn, take two bites, see Anna Wintour, see Justin Baldoni, and left to go back to Connecticut. Talk about blue balls.”

“I remember calling my publicist and being like, ‘The vibes are not vibing, we left,’” she concluded. “It felt like I was doing something wrong, but it felt like I was doing something right. Something was f—ed.”

11 Handbags That Look Designer But Are Under $100 on Sale at Nordstrom

9 January 2025 at 12:40

If you’re anything like Us and love saving money while looking luxe, post-holiday sales are the best time of the year to score incredible deals. Case in point: Nordstrom’s sale section, which currently has tons of gems. If you fancy a new handbag or two — especially something that looks more pricey than what you paid — we found a few steals to grab while you can. Chain straps, stand-out hues and expensive-looking materials are what set these purses apart.

A sharp bag elevates every outfit, whether it consists of jeans, athleisurewear or the staple black blazer you wear to the office on repeat. Below, shop the best-of-sale bags that look much more costly than their price tag. Pounce quickly — these items are selling out fast!

17 New Winter Amazon Fashion Staples to Refresh Your Wardrobe

11 Bags Under $100 on Sale at Nordstrom

1. Lambert The Sofia 2-in-1 Vegan Leather Quilted Crossbody: This style definitely exudes luxury! The pretty winter white shade, quilted material and chain strap create a sleek profile that will match dressy or casual ‘fits — $94 (originally $135) at Nordstrom!

2. The Sak Los Feliz Small Crossbody Bag: We love the deep red and tobacco suede colorways for this outfit-making bucket bag. With distinctive details where the strap meets the bag, it’s a super stylish choice. One shopper wrote, “I got the red one. It’s beautiful. It’s just the right size when I don’t want to carry a large purse. The leather is supple and the red color is perfect, I love it!” — Starting at $78 (regularly $129) at Nordstrom!

3. Olga Berg Juliana Crystal Top-Handle Bag: If you are forever a Barbie girl, this pink, sparkly bag has your name on it. The knotted-handle style features tonal crystals throughout and a logo-jacquard lining, creating a stunning accessory that is sure to garner compliments— $88 (regularly $125) at Nordstrom!

4. Aldo Miyabellx Croc Embossed Faux Leather Convertible Crossbody Bag: A convertible gold chain strap and croc-embossed faux leather combo make this bag look posh! From popular accessory brand Aldo, this chic rocker piece is a steal at under $50 — $48 (regularly $60) at Nordstrom!

5. Senreve Mini Atlas Pochette Kit: Whether you wear this bag as a crossbody, on your shoulder or as a clutch, it’ll hold your essentials while giving your outfit a pop of sky blue. Made from leather and suede, it has plenty of pockets for stashing lipgloss, keys and more. — $85 (regularly $165) at Nordstrom!

6. Karl Lagerfeld Paris Kosette Small Shoulder Bag: Accessorize like a rock star with this leather bag that has stars and music notes amping up its style quotient. The magnetic flap top conceals an extra zipper pocket for maximum functionality — $88 (regularly $148) at Nordstrom!

7. JW PEI Joy Faux Leather Shoulder Bag: As one happy shopper wrote, this structured ’90s-inspired shoulder bag looks like designer. “This bag is so rich looking! Just the perfect size for all the essentials for an evening out!” Only the pink shade is on sale but the other colors still ring up under $100! — $63 (regularly $89) at Nordstrom!

8. Kurt Geiger London Extra Small Southbank Tweed Tote: Whether you love plaid like Taylor Swift or want to channel style choices from the cult-classic Legally Blonde, this British bag has you covered. Pink tweed and two handles give this mini a lot of style points. Plus, you’re scoring it for 40% off! — $87 (regularly $145) at Nordstrom!

9. Topshop Gerry Structured Faux Leather Shoulder Grab Bag: Details like shiny material and a thick chainlink handle make this bag an edgy closet staple that will get a lot of use. It’s a standout for evening plans but also looks chic by day — $32 (regularly $45) at Nordstrom!

10. Lambert The Naomi – Vegan Leather 2-in-1 HandbagAside from the sleek look, silver metal hardware and smooth faux leather, this petite, luxe-like bag can stash essentials — $78 (regularly $130) at Nordstrom!

11. Nina Sequin Minaudière: Score an incredible deal on a fancy staple with this crystal-encrusted clutch, which is 60% off right now. One review raves that it’s “Big enough to hold all essentials but, still dainty & elegant.”— $28 (regularly $68) at Nordstrom!

9 Workwear Pieces to Revamp Your In Office Wardrobe

Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click on a link and make a purchase. Learn more!

© Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

Cash Warren Shared ‘Secret’ to Jessica Alba Marriage Months Before Split

9 January 2025 at 12:34
Cash Warren Shared Secret to Jessica Alba Marriage Months Before Split
Phillip Faraone/Getty Images

Cash Warren shared a glimpse into what made his marriage to Jessica Alba work just months before their reported split.

“I think, ultimately, the friendship and support and just knowing that your partner has your back means everything to us,” Warren, 45, exclusively told Us Weekly in July 2024 when celebrating the 10-year anniversary of Pair of Thieves. “I think that would be the secret, is just having each other’s back. It’s hard work, but we roll up our sleeves and we do it. It’s wild. It’s the longest relationship I could have ever imagined.”

The couple — who share Honor, 16, Haven, 13, and Hayes, 7 — were together for 20 years and married for 16 before they reportedly separated. The couple has not publicly commented on the status of their relationship.

In honor of Hayes’ birthday on December 31, 2024, the couple recently enjoyed a family day at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Jessica Alba and Cash Warren’s Honest Relationship Quotes Before Split

While family time has always been a priority for Warren and Alba, 43, the duo also tried to make time for date night away from any kids.

“For us, it’s getting out of the house and going and staying somewhere else for a night,” Warren previously told Us. “Unplugging is big. We love taking walks. We love chatting. We love eating good food together. We have so many of the same interests that we enjoy. What’s awesome is that we’re also still willing to participate.”

Warren praised Alba for being on an “awesome spiritual journey” that included sound baths and learning about crystals.

“I’ll get my charts read,” he added. “I’ll learn about it alongside her and she’s always opening me up to new things.”

Cash Warren Shared Secret to Jessica Alba Marriage Months Before Split
Courtesy of Jessica Alba/Instagram

Before her split from Warren was announced, Alba appeared on an April 2024 episode of Katherine Schwarzenegger Pratt’s “BDA Baby” podcast. When asked how she was able to find balance amid her heavy responsibilities — and ensure “your husband feels tended to” — Alba admitted it was a process.

“If you’ve figured it out in your relationship, let me know,” she said. “You know, I think that [Cash] probably gets the short end of the stick. … It’s hard. It’s impossible.”

She advised listeners that it was important “to communicate when you’re unhappy and nipping it right away instead of letting it sort of, like, fester.”

“We have, obviously, the friendship, the comfort of, like, ‘You’re not going anywhere,’” Alba added. “And so sometimes you don’t treat those people the best, right? You don’t consider their feelings in the way that you would consider other people’s feelings. So that is something that I think is a constant — it’s a constant one to work on.”

Look Back at Jessica Alba and Cash Warren's Complete Relationship Timeline

Through all of Alba’s accomplishments, however, Warren was a vocal supporter.

After Alba stepped down from the Honest Company in April 2024 to redirect her focus on new projects and passions, Warren expressed how proud he was of his wife.

“What she was able to accomplish with the Honest Company is amazing and she’s still involved. She’s still on the board. We’re obviously still a Honest household,” he told Us in July 2024. “I’ve just been blown away that she was able to so elegantly step down from her role with Honest and jump back into acting and immediately find success like that. It’s mind blowing to me. I’m just like, ‘How do you do that?!’”

13 Chic Plus Size Valentine's Day Dresses to Shop Now

9 January 2025 at 12:30

With February right around the corner, it’s time to talk about your Valentine’s Day attire. Whether you’re planning to go to dinner with a special someone or you’re hanging with the girls, the right dress can help you celebrate fashionably. Further, for plus size-bodies, it can be difficult to find dresses that fit well and won’t cost a ton of money — but we’re here to help you!

17 Best Stunning Leather and Faux-Leather Dresses on Amazon

From flowy midi dresses to easy minis, there is a chic Valentine’s Day dress to shop now that will become your new closet staple. We rounded up 13 chic plus-size Valentine’s Day dresses to shop now — read on to see our picks!

1. Cozy Number: This Cider sweater dress is perfect for the girl who wants to show a little skin while staying warm — just $26!

2. Twinkle, Twinkle: This is In’voland glitter dress is such a showstopper that it’s sure to become a compliment magnet for you — was $52, now just $35!

3. Decadently Casual: We love this Clocor casual dress because it’s a simple little black dress that works for date nights or formal occasions — just $40!

4. Squarely Modern: This Eytino square neck dress is flowy and easy — just $40!

5. Wrapped Up: This Lauren Conrad V-neck wrap maxi dress has long sleeves for a timeless, sleek finish — just $60!

6. Flutter, Flutter: We can’t get over this Terra & Sky velvet flutter sleeve dress due to its stylish look and clean lines — just $20!

7. Shine Bright, Shine Far: This Terra & Sky mini sequin shirt dress is great for the girl who loves to make bold statements — was $35, now just $20!

14 Chic Fall Dresses For When You Don't Know What to Wear

8. Flow On: If you love fun prints and breezy silhouettes, you’ll love this  Nine West sweetheart maxi dress — just $60!

9. Prints, Please: This Terra & Sky scoop neck sweater dress comes in a fun leopard print (this year’s hottest neutral) and it’ll keep you nice and toasty — was $20, now just $17!

10. Off The Shoulder Realness: This Eloquii off the shoulder dress is sexy and vibrant — was $110, now just $55!

11. Blow A Bubble: For those who love cutting-edge shapes, this Buxom Couture bubble hem cotton blend poplin dress is right up your alley — just $70!

12. Maxed Out: This Livd long sleeve maxi dress will move with your body easily — just $49!

13. Edgy Queen: This City Chic sassy dress will make sure you get a call for a second date — just $140!

These Slimming Dresses Nail Viral Summer Dress Trends

Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click on a link and make a purchase. Learn more!

© Getty Images

This Non-Groggy Chamomile-Flavored Supplement Delivers Restful Sleep

9 January 2025 at 12:20

Sponsored content. Us Weekly receives compensation for this article as well as for purchases made when you click on a link and buy something below.

Here at Us Weekly, we’ve been chatting about all things New Year’s resolutions. Like you, many of Us are grabbing booze-free mocktails in honor of dry January and elevating our health and wellness routines. We’ve even been sharing tips on ways to transform your wardrobe. Right now, we’re focusing on all things rest and relaxation. If you’re intentional about prioritizing sleep in the new year, you need to check out NEEDED’s Sleep and Relaxation Supplement.

Are you tired of hitting snooze? This supplement has nutrients and botanicals to improve sleep quality, and relaxation and support overall cognitive health for pregnant women. Safe for pregnant and postpartum mothers, the supplement delivers restful sleep without leaving you drowsy, thanks to a melatonin-free formula.

The science-backed supplement has magnesium that supports cell function, relaxation, improved sleep quality and cognitive function. Stress-reducing L-theanine promotes brain waves that reduce stress and anxiety. It also helps boost creativity. Chamomile is notorious for promoting relaxation while L-Glycine reduces the time it takes to fall asleep. It also enhances sleep quality and improves cognition.

This supplement is super easy to use. Mix one serving into one to two cups of hot, cold or room-temperature water. Stir or shake until it’s fully incorporated and you’re good to go. Best of all? This sleep-boosting supplement tastes just like delicious chamomile tea.

Just in time for the new year, NEEDED is offering massive markdowns on the sleep-improving supplement. From January 6 through January 20, savvy shoppers can snag an additional 25% off subscriptions with the code NEWYEAR to kick the new year off well-rested.

Tired of waking up in the middle of the night? Perhaps you’ve embarked on a rest and relaxation journey. This nourishing supplement improves sleep quality and it’s available on sale!

Get the Sleep and Relaxation Supplement at NEEDED!

Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click on a link and make a purchase. Learn more!

© Photo by Getty Images

‘Special Forces’ Soldiers Break Down Denise Richards Revealing Past Assault

9 January 2025 at 12:17

Denise Richards was the first star to really get vulnerable on season 3 of Special Forces: The World’s Toughest Test.

“Everybody comes on the show for a reason. On day one, we look at people and say, in [our] own minds, ‘Why are you here?’ But actually, we know why you’re here,” Directing Staff instructor Billy Bingham said in a joint interview with fellow soldier and star Rudy Reyes at Us Weekly’s NYC studio on Thursday, January 9. “You are here because you’ve lost direction. You need to re-challenge yourself. You wanna be brought back to reality because that’s what this show does.”

On the Wednesday, January 8, premiere, Richards, 53, “froze” during the first task — which required contestants to jump from a speeding boat to a speeding helicopter and climb into the helicopter — and was subsequently called in to speak with the staff.

“I’m completely overcome by certain fearful situations, and I want to learn how to stay calm and do something,” the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills alum explained. “Part of the reason I wanted to do this course is I’ve been in situations where I freeze and I can’t function, I can’t even speak to protect myself.”

Denise Richards Teases Her ‘Special Forces’ Experience: 'Never' Again

Richards revealed that the first time she ever experienced this was when she was 15.

“I noticed a man following me. He came up from behind me, put his hand around my mouth, grabbed my vagina, and started dragging me,” she said. “And I froze, like, I couldn’t even scream for help.”

Richards had previously only told husband Aaron Phypers about the incident. “It’s so scary to have that situation, you know, [at] that age and be so vulnerable,” she continued. “And I have three daughters, and I want them to be able to never go through that. And also, if something, God forbid, happen to be strong enough.”

Denise Richards Felt Like a Weight Was Lifted After Revealing Past Assault on Special Forces
Rudy Reyes and Billy Billingham Us Weekly

Bingham gave Us more insight into why the stars, including Richards, end up sharing personal stories.

Denise Richards 'Ruptured' Both Her Breast Implants During 'Special Forces'

“Before we do the mirror room, even [if it’s only been 12 hours], you’ve already put through a phase of deprivation,” he said. “When you’re tired, you’re hungry, you don’t care anymore. You’re more open. Now there’s something about that, what we call the mirror room. I don’t know why it is — and we are not psychologists and we have no idea what that story’s gonna be right out of that person’s mouth.”

Denise Richards Felt Like a Weight Was Lifted After Revealing Past Assault on Special Forces
Pete Dadds/FOX

The men confirmed to Us that they do not know the cast list until they meet the recruits on the first day of filming.

Denise Richards' 2022 Road Rage Incident: What to Know

“We have no idea what is gonna come out of their mouth,” Bingham, who admitted Richards was the only star he recognized, continued. “And for us, we have to play the poker face because some of it’s quite heart wrenching. And we’re emotional people as well, and we have to [stay strong]. But I think something about that mirror room — when they walk in, it’s intimidating. They’re disorientated, they’re tired, they’re already feeling a little bit sad and down. They just wanna get something off the chest. But what I do love about it is once they’ve done that, like Denise did, it was like someone had just taken a big weight off her shoulders. She walked out and she was, like, bouncing again. … You’ll see such a great difference after that.”

Special Forces: The World’s Toughest Test airs on Fox Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET.

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).

© Pete Dadds/FOX

💾

©

13 Chic Valentine's Day Dresses to Shop Now

9 January 2025 at 12:16

Although we’re just settling into the new year, it’s time to point our attention to Valentine’s Day. The day of life is a great time to shower the special people in your life with love and do so in style. Whether you’re heading to dinner or hanging out with the girls for Galentine’s, the right dresses can help you do it all! What’s more, we even found affordable options that you can wear long after the holiday ends.

17 Best Stunning Leather and Faux-Leather Dresses on Amazon

From edgy minis to decadent maxi dresses, there is a chic Valentine’s Day dress that will help you look stylish without breaking the bank. Nevertheless, we rounded up 13 chic Valentine’s Day dresses to shop now — read on to see our picks!

1. Edgy Queen: This Gobles cocktail dress is so edgy that we’re sure it’ll get you a second date — was $36, now just $30!

2. ’70s-Inspiration: This Exlura lantern sleeve dress has a slight ’70s influence that still feels incredibly modern — obsessed — just $39!

3. Prints, Please: We love this Chang Yun long maxi sweater dress because it’s so fun, and we’re sure it’ll become a compliment magnet for you — was $55, now just $50!

4. Zipped Up: For the girl who loves looking fashion-forward, you’ll love this Scoop ultimate scubaknit zip front mini dress — just $26!

5. Wrapped Up: This Free Assembly cotton midi wrap dress is a simple option that you can wear during any season — was $36, now just $13!

6. Ruffle Your Features: We can’t get over this Scoop midi sweater dress because it has ruffled bell sleeves that will elevate any type of occasion — was $34, now just $11!

7. Show Some Skin: If you love making a bold statement with your wardrobe, this Show Me Your Mumu halter mini dress is right up your alley — just $148!

Earn Best-Dressed Status in These Flattering Fall Maxi Dresses

8. Simplistic Elegance: This One Grey Day x Revolve Samantha dress has clean lines and will become your new closet favorite — just $188!

9. Bright and Fun: This Bardot mesh midi dress has long sleeves for a flirty, colorful option — just $119!

10. Closet Staple: This Caslon Valentine stripe T-shirt dress is a breezy option that you can wear long after Valentine’s Day is over — just $60!

11. Hot Mama: For those who love sexy dress that will push the envelope, you’ll love this Naked Wardrobe suiting strapless minidress — just $108!

12. Flutter, Flutter: You can coordinate this ASTR the Label sequin flutter sleeve minidress with heels or boots — was $89, now just $67!

13. Flexible Vibes: If you like flexible dresses that offer plenty of coverage, you’ll be head over for this Nordstrom long sleeve matte jersey dress — was $129, now just $90!

18 Loose Dresses That Are More Slimming Than Bodycon Styles

Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click on a link and make a purchase. Learn more!

© Getty Images

5 Hot Stories: tWitch's Mom Speaks Out, Christina Haack Talks Ex Ant

9 January 2025 at 12:14
5 Hot Stories tWitchs Mom Speaks Out
Stephen tWitch Boss and Connie Boss Alexander. Courtesy of Stephen tWitch Boss/Instagram

Stephen “tWitch” Boss mom, Connie Boss Alexander, is speaking out as his widow, Allison Holker, continues to spark controversy. In a lengthy statement shared via social media on Thursday, January 9, Boss Alexander addressed the “hurtful and misleading claims” made about her son more than two years after he died by suicide in December 2022. “As his mother, I will not let these accusations go unanswered. We will not stand by while his name and legacy are tarnished. He doesn’t deserve this, and the kids don’t deserve this,” her message continued, adding that she and her family are “committed to defending [tWitch’s] honor.” Holker recently drew backlash for airing personal details about her late husband — including his alleged drug problem and childhood sexual abuse — in a recent interview before the release of her forthcoming memoir. She defended her book via social media, explaining, “I hope that by sharing our full story maybe I can help someone else who might see themselves or a loved one in Stephen.” Find more exclusive updates and top stories below:

  • HGTV star Christina Haack exclusively opened up to Us about getting “back on track” with ex-husband Ant Anstead following their divorce and custody drama.
  • Actor Jake Johnson shared a heartfelt tribute to his late friend Jeff Baena following the director’s sudden death earlier this month.
  • Months before Jessica Alba’s reported split from husband Cash Warren, the actress revealed that the pair were like “roommates” more than 15 years into their marriage.
  • According to a source, Beyoncé’s showstopping NFL halftime performance on Christmas Day brought up an unexpected concern for players’ safety. Get the exclusive details.

Sign up to get daily news via email and follow Us on Instagram or Facebook for more news, exclusive interviews and intel, red carpet dispatches and beyond.

❌
❌