Release date: January 17 on Apple TV+

Watching the first season of "Severance" in early 2022 felt a bit like getting in on an extraordinary secret. This bizarre, endearing, and incredibly stylistic take on the soul-crushing office grind quickly yet quietly became one of the best genre series on television. Three years later, the show blessedly is not a hidden gem anymore, and "Severance" season two is coming in hotly anticipated.

The series stars Adam Scott as Mark, a man who decides to take a "severed" job after the death of his wife. The severance procedure bifurcates his personality into two discrete people: one who works his job at the inscrutable Lumon Industries, and one who lives life on the outside. In season one, he and his coworkers work to expose their plight as severed workers to the world, while simultaneously unraveling the myriad secrets of their workplace. — Palmer Haasch

Release date: January 28 on Hulu

"This Is Us" creator Dan Fogelman and star Sterling K. Brown reunite on a new Hulu series. The mystery thriller focuses on Xavier Collins (Brown), the head of security to James Marsden's President Cal Bradford. Xavier finds Cal dead and is said to be the last person who saw the president alive, thrusting him into the middle of an apparent conspiracy.

The trailer is light on specific details, but according to the streamer the show is set "in a serene, wealthy community inhabited by some of the world's most prominent individuals," who are rattled by the president's murder and the ensuing investigation.

Brown was always a highlight of "This Is Us," so it's exciting to see him step into another lead role that appears to be very different from Randall Pearson.

Release date: February 14 on Paramount+ with Showtime (and February 16 on Showtime)

"Yellowjackets" is a mish-mash of genres: part coming-of-age story, part survival drama, part black comedy, part mystery.

When it first premiered in 2021, it wasn't an instant hit. Rather, it steadily grew a passionate fan base as more and more viewers became invested in this tale of a group of teenage girls who became stranded in the Canadian wilderness in the 1990s — and the repercussions of that traumatic experience on the surviving women 25 years later.

Creators Ashley Lyle and Bart Nickerson managed to craft a wildly compelling story that drew equal interest to both halves of its cast: the talented rising stars who play the '90s versions of the girls (including breakouts like Ella Purnell and Sophie Thatcher), and the established powerhouse actors like Juliette Lewis, Melanie Lynskey, and Christina Ricci in the modern-day setting.

Season two answered a lot of questions (including arguably the biggest: Did they eat each other??) but ended on an unexpected death that left fans clamoring to know what would happen next. Luckily, there are still plenty of mysteries waiting to be solved. — CM

Release date: February 16 on HBO and Max

There's little information about season three of "The White Lotus." But Mike White's hit HBO anthology series, which racked up a total of 43 Emmy nominations from the first two seasons, has generated enough hype all on its own for the next installment.

Season three will focus on wealthy guests visiting the fictional White Lotus resort chain's Thailand location. And for the first time ever, the new season will feature a returning cast member: Natasha Rothwell, who played spa manager Belinda in season one. The star-studded cast also includes Blackpink member Lisa in her acting debut, "Fallout" star Walton Goggins, and "Gen V" actor Patrick Schwarzenegger — who told Business Insider that season three is "Absolutely fucking insane." — Olivia Singh

Release date: February 20 on Netflix

Robert De Niro on a Netflix drama? OK, sure, we're in.

"Zero Day" is a political thriller focusing on a global cyberattack, where De Niro plays a former president who comes out of retirement to help mitigate the crisis. The impressive ensemble cast also includes Lizzy Caplan as his daughter, Angela Bassett as the current president, and Dan Stevens as a loudmouth political TV host who antagonizes De Niro.

Release date: February 23 on NBC and Peacock

"Suits" mania very suddenly and randomly swept over the nation when the 2010s USA Network drama saw a resurgence of interest on Netflix. Why? Who knows — chalk it up to one of the great mysteries of the algorithm.

In any event, it prompted the greenlighting of a spinoff series that shifts the action from a corporate firm in New York to an entertainment firm in Los Angeles. The new series centers on Stephen Amell's Ted Black, a former New York prosecutor who has reinvented himself out west.

Don't expect Meghan Markle to show up on it, but we can still hold out hope for other fan-favorite characters: Gabriel Macht's Harvey Specter is reportedly set for a three-episode arc, which hopefully means Donna Paulsen (Sarah Rafferty) isn't far behind. — CM

Release date: March 4 on Disney+

The Marvel series will see Charlie Cox reprise his role as Matt Murdock, a blind lawyer by day, and a vicious vigilante by night. Because it's a continuation of the "Daredevil" Netflix series (which is exciting in itself) it'll also reunite Cox with Vincent D'Onofrio as Wilson Fisk, the criminal mastermind, Kingpin. Not only that but "Daredevil: Born Again" will add a harder, violent edge to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Hopefully Marvel chief Kevin Feige and the gang let the show stand on its own two bloody feet without forcing needless cameos for the sake of it. After all, a street-level story with relatable stakes is what the franchise needs right now amid all the chatter of future "Avengers" movies. — Eammon Jacobs

Release date: March 6 on Hulu

"Deli Boys" (created by former Vice journalist Abdullah Saeed) follows the two wealthy Pakistani American sons of a convenience store magnate who learn after his death that he was secretly involved in a life of crime.

The polar opposite brothers are forced into that world, promising a unique take on the fish-out-of-water story coming to Hulu. — CM

Release date: March 20 on Netflix

Market your series as a "Shondaland White House whodunnit," and you don't have to do too much more to convince me. After a murder at a state dinner, Detective Cordelia Cupp, played by Uzo Aduba, must attempt to solve the case. On-screen, she's joined by Giancarlo Esposito, Randall Park, Ken Marino, Edwina Findley, and a slate of others — including Kylie Minogue.

"Scandal" writer Paul William Davies serves as showrunner, with Shonda Rhimes and Betsy Beers executive producing. "The Residence" is based on the book of the same name by Kate Andersen Brower. — PH

Release date: April on HBO and Max

"The Last of Us" season one turned prestige gaming into prestige television, adapting Naughty Dog's fungal apocalypse thriller into an acclaimed series starring Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey. Season one ended on a tenuous high note: Joel (Pascal) chose to save Ellie (Ramsey), who is immune to the cordyceps fungus that turns people into violent infected, rather than allowing her death in pursuit of a cure.

"The Last of Us" season two will adapt at least part of "The Last of Us Part II," the sequel to the original video game. Without getting too much into spoilers, it's likely to be even more heartbreaking than season one. This season will also feature newcomers including Kaitlyn Dever, who will play a significant character named Abby, "Beef" star Young Mazino, and Jeffrey Wright, who will reprise his role from the game, Isaac. — PH

Release date: April 11 on Apple TV+

Apple TV+ has had no shortage of prestige drama attempts, from the Cate Blanchett series "Disclaimer" to Natalie Portman's "Lady in the Lake." Not all of them are very good (and a lot of them appear to come and go with little to no fanfare), and yet I still have enough faith in Jon Hamm and his ability to play complex antiheroes that I'm compelled to tune into "Your Friends & Neighbors."

Hamm plays Andrew "Coop" Cooper (Hamm), a recently divorced former hedge fund manager who's fired in disgrace. According to Apple, Coop, who lives in the wealthy Vestment Village, begins stealing from his neighbors' homes but ends up uncovering more secrets (and danger) than he bargained for.

The show also stars Amanda Peet and Olivia Munn, among others. And the streamer clearly has a lot of faith in it: They've already renewed it for a second season, months ahead of its premiere. — CM

Release date: (rumored) May on Max

The Emmy Award-winning "Hacks" is a series that only gets better with age, and its excellent third season set a high bar for whatever will come next. The series stars Jean Smart as Deborah Vance, a comedian who turns around her stale Vegas stand-up career into a true artistic reinvention with the help of young writer Ava Daniels, played by Hannah Einbinder.

Deborah and Ava's relationship has always been defined by an ever-growing co-dependence, the capacity to mutually wound each other, and somewhere in the mix, love and grudging respect. The season three finale put them at odds once again, setting up for what's sure to be a thrilling — and of course, extremely funny — fourth season. — PH

Release date: Fall 2025 on Hulu

Glen Powell has been all over our movie screens for the last three years, and now he'll be all over our small screens.

Powell, one of the biggest male rising actors in Hollywood today, is on a movie star trajectory akin to his mentor (and "Top Gun: Maverick" costar) Tom Cruise. He has roots in TV, though ("Scream Queens," I will never forget you). The upcoming Hulu comedy, about a hotshot quarterback who torpedoes his college football career and disguises himself as Chad Powers to walk onto a Southern university's team, is a great venue for flexing his funny chops.

At the absolute least, the visual of Powell in those prosthetics and wig is already a hoot. — CM

Release date: TBD on Netflix

These days, it's hard to fathom that "Stranger Things" was one of the relatively early hits of the streaming age when it premiered in 2016. Close to a decade later, it's a cultural juggernaut that elevated the profile of its entire cast, from veteran actors to young stars. With one season left, it's finally time to close this chapter of life in Hawkins, Indiana.

"Stranger Things" season five will bring an end to Eleven's (Millie Bobby Brown) story, but past that, it will represent the true end of an era at Netflix. "Stranger Things" is one of the biggest series the streamer has ever released, but even if the show is ending, some talent like showrunners Matt and Ross Duffer and Brown, now a leading lady, are sticking around with other projects. — PH

Release date: TBD on Netflix

"Wednesday" was a smash hit when it premiered on Netflix in 2022. Over two years later, it's still holding strong atop the streamer's list of its most-watched shows ever, with over 252 million views to date.

The supernatural teen dramedy's success is due in large part to the performance of Jenna Ortega as the titular Wednesday Addams, the sardonic, psychic teen who finds herself thrust into the center of a murder mystery when she's shipped off to a new boarding school.

The first season ended with a twist about one of Wednesday's two love interests, but Ortega has promised that "Wednesday" season two will lean more into horror and focus less on her character's romantic life. That's a very welcome tweak. — CM

Release date: TBD on Netflix

The long-running dystopian anthology series — where each episode is a stand-alone story of speculative fiction, with most set in a near-future world with advanced, often ethically troublesome technology — returns for its seventh outing later this year.

As with recent seasons, there are some big names lined up for the "Black Mirror" season seven cast, including Awkwafina, Issa Rae, Paul Giamatti, Billy Magnussen, and Tracee Ellis Ross. But perhaps most excitingly, for the first time in the series' history, there's going to be a story continuation: One of the six new episodes will be a sequel to "USS Callister," the Emmy-winning season four episode starring Cristin Milioti as a programmer who gets trapped in her incel boss' video game world. — CM

Release date: TBD on Netflix

Obsessive stalker Joe Goldberg has somehow managed to evade capture or consequences in his yearslong killing spree that's spanned four seasons of television and multiple cities across the globe. He seemed to finally be at the end of the line in "You" season four, only to miraculously make it out with a seemingly clean slate yet again. The finale brought Joe full circle back to New York, and partnered with a woman who may or may not see him for who he truly is.

The fifth and final season of "You" will hopefully bring a satisfying conclusion to the drama that's managed to keep reinventing itself — and finding ways to creatively continue the story — long past where many assumed it'd surely end. — CM

Release date: TBD on Netflix

"Squid Game" isn't only Netflix's biggest non-English-language series — it's also one of its biggest properties, period. The Korean-language series, created by showrunner Hwang Dong-hyuk, is a deeply tragic thriller with an instantly recognizable visual identity. Both of those factors helped it become not only a hit series, but also a true cultural phenomenon. "Squid Game" season two, which premiered in December, broke viewership records to become Netflix's biggest debut ever.

Even if you didn't watch "Squid Game," you know "Squid Game" — and with the show's third and final season on the way in 2025, you definitely should be catching up. — PH

Release date: TBD on HBO and Max

Given the wild success of "Game of Thrones," it makes sense that HBO would go all-in on the "Thrones" brand through a series of spinoffs. The first of those, "House of the Dragon," focuses on a bloody Targaryen succession war. The second, "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms," is about a knight and his young squire — Dunk and Egg, colloquially. Dunk is Ser Duncan the Tall, and Egg is Aegon Targaryen, a young member of the ruling family.

The series is based on the first installation of George R. R. Martin's "Tales of Dunk and Egg" novella series, titled "The Hedge Knight." HBO drama head Francesca Orsi told Deadline in 2023 that the show would ideally span three seasons, one for each existing novella. — PH

Release date: TBD on FX and Hulu

FX is expanding the "Alien" franchise with a new TV series that finally brings the unimaginable horrors of the Xenomorphs to Earth in the aptly titled "Alien: Earth."

The first teaser trailer didn't reveal much about the series, but it's helmed by "Legion" and "Fargo" creator Noah Hawley, which hopefully means that the series will have more to say than just sci-fi scares. It features the likes of "Justified" and "The Mandalorian" star Timothy Olyphant, "Andor" and "Black Mirror" actor Alex Lawther, and "Fargo" alumni David Rysdahl. Also in the cast are Essie Davis, Sydney Chandler, and Samuel Blenkin. — EJ

Release date: TBD on HBO and Max

Rachel Sennott has been a standout part of some of the best comedies of the last few years, including "Bottoms," "Shiva Baby," and the horror comedy "Bodies Bodies Bodies." The comedian is stepping up as HBO's new Lena Dunham (non-derogatory), helming a series that she's writing, executive producing, and starring in.

No details about its plot have been made available, but Sennott has proven herself to be imminently watchable, so we're certainly tuning in to see what she's got in store. — CM

Release date: TBD on Hulu

It's a tale as old as time: Where there's a viral true-crime story, a scripted dramatization (or five) is sure to follow. That's the case with "Good American Family" (not to be confused with the similarly named faith-based TV network Great American Family), which is loosely inspired by Natalia Grace Mans' story.

Natalia's saga is long and complex (enough to fill three seasons of the Investigation Discovery docuseries "The Curious Case of Natalia Grace" over the course of three years). The gist of it is that Natalia, a Ukrainian orphan with dwarfism, was adopted by Kristine and Michael Barnett, who eventually came to believe that their new daughter was actually a psychopathic adult posing as a child. (Yes, that is also generally the plot of the horror movie "Orphan," which wasn't based on Natalia's story).

Ellen Pompeo, in her first major starring role since stepping back from "Grey's Anatomy" as a series regular, stars as the girl's adoptive mother. It'll be interesting to see whether the scripted drama is more sympathetic to the Barnetts' side or Natalia's. — CM

Release date: TBD on HBO and Max

"It Chapter 1" and "It Chapter 2," based on the Stephen King novel of the same name, were mega-hits at the box office when they came out in 2017 and 2019 respectively. Pennywise the Clown had previously terrorized audiences in the form of Tim Curry in a 1990 miniseries before Bill Skarsgard scarred a new generation when he took over the role. "Welcome to Derry" is the first time the story is getting the prequel treatment.

The show jumps back in time to explore an earlier community in Derry who came face to face with the monstrous creature. It features new characters not seen in the films, with only Skarsgard returning. — CM

Release date: TBD on Starz

The smash hit historical drama "Outlander" has captivated audiences (both readers of the book series it's based on and show-only fans) for over a decade since premiering in 2014.

Claire and Jamie Fraser's epic love story will come to an end with an eighth and final season. But the "Outlander" universe will live on with "Blood of My Blood," a prequel that rewinds the clock to show how Jamie's parents, and Claire's, wound up together.

If the prequel's cast has even a fraction of the chemistry "Outlander" leads Sam Heughan and Caitríona Balfe do, it'll be must-see TV for romance lovers. — CM

Release date: TBD on FX and Hulu

Michelle Williams, who previously won an Emmy and Golden Globe for her role in the FX limited series "Fosse/Verdon," returns to the network with "Dying For Sex." She plays Molly, an unhappily married woman who decides to leave her husband in order to explore her sexuality after being diagnosed with cancer.

Billed as a comedy-drama, it's based on the podcast of the same name by Nikki Boyer. Boyer, who's also an executive producer on the FX show, co-created her podcast with her friend — the real Molly, who actually did leave her own marriage after a breast cancer diagnosis. Jenny Slate plays Boyer on the show; Rob Delaney and Jay Duplass also star.

Beyond the compelling true story and excitement over the talented Williams' return to TV, "New Girl" creator Liz Meriwether also serves as a showrunner, promising whip-smart writing. — CM

Release date: TBD on AMC and AMC+

The criminally underrated supernatural horror anthology series gathered a small but devoted fan base after the first season, based on Dan Simmons' 2007 novel of the same name, premiered in 2018.

That season told an extremely spooky fictionalized account of Captain Sir John Franklin's doomed Arctic expedition and featured a who's-who of British actors like Jared Harris and Tobias Menzies. The next season, subtitled "Infamy," debuted a year later and moved the horror to a Japanese internment camp in America during World War II, where the camp's inhabitants believe they're being tormented by an evil force.

AMC stayed mum on whether the show would continue for almost five years, until the February 2024 announcement that "The Terror: Devil in Silver" was coming. The upcoming six-episode season, based on Victor LaValle's novel of the same name, will star Dan Stevens (who's also an EP) as a working-class man wrongfully committed to a psychiatric hospital where he has to contend not only with the other patients and the doctors but a seemingly malevolent force that appears to live within the hospital's walls.

Stevens is a great choice for this brand of psychological horror. See also: "Legion." — CM

Release date: TBD on Hulu

Ryan Murphy regulars, assemble!

The prolific TV creator is fresh off a busy 2024 that included the premieres of four separate shows he produced, including "Grotesquerie" and the controversial "Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story." He doesn't appear to be taking it easy in 2025 either.

It's unclear whether he'll again match the sheer number of projects he debuted in 2024, but he definitely has at least one coming out: "All's Fair," a legal drama about an all-female law firm of divorce attorneys coming to Hulu. The cast includes a bunch of Murphy's go-tos, including his frequent collaborator Sarah Paulson, "Feud: Capote vs. the Swans" star Naomi Watts, "Grotesquerie" star Niecy Nash, and his most recent addition to the crew, aspiring real-life lawyer Kim Kardashian, who starred in "American Horror Story" season 12.

Kardashian was surprisingly good in "AHS," so it's intriguing to see what she'll do in "All's Fair," where she's reportedly playing the protagonist. — CM

Release date: TBD on Paramount+

Few true crime cases have captivated the public as intensely and for as long as JonBenét Ramsey's unsolved murder. The six-year-old beauty queen was found dead in her family home the day after Christmas 1996, and her killer was never identified.

The long-cold case was recently covered in a Netflix docuseries, which led to a resurgence of interest (though plenty of true-crime enthusiasts have been carefully following the case for years). The story has been dramatized before, in a 2000 miniseries and multiple TV movies, but this is the first time it's getting what appears to be the prestige TV treatment.

Most intriguingly, the series will star Melissa McCarthy as Patsy Ramsey, JonBenét's mother. This will mark an interesting pivot for McCarthy, who's chiefly known for far more light-hearted roles in comedies like "Bridesmaids" and "Tammy." — CM

Cooper has been sober since he was 29. He told GQ in 2013 that he got sober because he realized that "if I continued it, I was really going to sabotage my whole life."

Cooper played a musician struggling with addiction in 2018's "A Star Is Born," which he also directed. He told Variety that it was a "cathartic" experience. 

"Anytime you're trying to tell the truth you need to go to places and use things that have happened to you, or you've read about or experienced," he said. "And that's all part of the beauty of turning whatever things you've gone through into a story. I find that to be very cathartic."

During an appearance on a 2023 episode of "Running Wild With Bear Grylls: The Challenge," Cooper said that he was "very lucky" to overcome his addictions. 

Cooper also said he was grateful to be sober when he played Jackson Maine in "A Star Is Born."

"Thank goodness I was at a place in my life where I was at ease with all of that, so I could really let myself go," he said. "I've been very lucky with the roles I've had to play. It's been a real blessing. I hope I get to keep doing it."

Holland spoke about his decision to become sober during an appearance on the podcast "On Purpose With Jay Shetty," released in July 2023.

After having a "very boozy December," the British actor chose to participate in Dry January. During that time, Holland found that he kept thinking about drinking, "and it just really scared me," to the point that he realized he has a dependency. 

Holland said he was "definitely addicted to alcohol" and didn't know how to navigate social settings without drinking. 

"I was really, really struggling and I started to really worry that maybe I had an alcohol problem. So I decided that I would wait until my birthday, which is June 1," the actor said. "I said to myself, 'If I can do six months without alcohol, then I can prove to myself that I don't have a problem.' And by the time I got to June 1, I was the happiest I've ever been in my life."

"It's honestly been the best thing I've ever done," Holland added. "I'm a year and a half into it now. It doesn't even cross my mind. I've found amazing replacements that I think are fantastic, ones that are also really healthy."

Holland's sobriety also led him to launch Bero, a premium non-alcoholic beer brand in 2024. 

"12 and a half years ago I was in active addiction," the "Stranger Things" star wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, in July 2022. "Hurting myself and those around me who I loved the most. It got so bad that eventually I ended up in a hospital for mental health. I am now 7 1/2 years clean and sober."

"I have made many mistakes in my life, but each day is a chance to start again. Atone for mistakes and grow," he continued. "For anyone who wakes up thinking 'oh god not again' I promise you there's a way."

"I'm so grateful to be where I am, I'm so grateful to be sober," he said. "I'm so grateful to be. Remember, we are all works in progress."

Simpson celebrated seven years of sobriety in November.

"I was at a place where I was literally spiraling with the alcohol and I was missing out on moments with my children, and then they were seeing me and they were very confused," Simpson said during an appearance on "The Kelly Clarkson Show" in 2020.

"I just wanted to be present and have clarity and be a good role model for my children, because I always wanted to be a good role model for the world, so why in the world would I be stuck in this cycle of having to wake up and have a drink before going to one of their school assemblies?" she continued. 

"It got to the point where all of my life has escalated and I couldn't suppress it," Simpson said. "And alcohol, it wasn't working. It was making me completely check out."

The star said that when she stopped drinking, she had "so much clarity."

Eminem, real name Marshall Mathers, almost died from an accidental overdose of the drug methadone in 2007. He later entered rehab and celebrated 12 years of sobriety in April 2020.

Eminem opened up about his addictions in a 2022 essay for XXL magazine, saying that drugs became "a part of the way I was living my life" once he got signed to a record label. 

The rapper recounted going to Tijuana multiple times to get drugs like Vicodin because it was "so easy to go back and forth to do it."

He said the "heaviest drug usage and addiction spanned only about five years of my life." His addiction worsened following the release of "The Marshall Mathers LP," as he was readying for his "Encore" album. 

"I was taking Vicodin, Valium, and alcohol," Eminem said. 

At one point, the rapper said he was taking 75 to 80 Valiums "a night."

During an appearance on Paul Rosenberg's "Paul Pod" podcast in 2022, Eminem spoke about how his life changed when he got clean while working on his "Relapse" album. 

"I remember when I first got sober and all the shit was out of my system, I remember just being, like, really happy and everything was fucking new to me again," he said. "It was the first album and the first time that I had fun recording in a long time." 

Robert Downey Jr. was arrested multiple times on drug-related charges over the span of a few years in the late '90s. He later spent time at the California Substance Abuse Treatment Facility and State Prison and has focused on staying sober since.

"Job one is get out of that cave," he told Vanity Fair in 2014. "A lot of people do get out but don't change. So the thing is to get out and recognize the significance of that aggressive denial of your fate, come through the crucible forged into a stronger metal."

Rob Lowe received the Spirit of Sobriety award in 2015 to celebrate 25 clean years.

"Being in recovery has given me everything of value that I have in my life," Lowe said when accepting the award. "Integrity, honesty, fearlessness, faith, a relationship with God, and most of all gratitude. It's given me a beautiful family and an amazing career. I'm under no illusions where I would be without the gift of alcoholism and the chance to recover from it."

DJ and producer Calvin Harris told the BBC that he stopped drinking at 24 because it was affecting his work.

"I wasn't an alcoholic or anything like that, but it was clearly affecting what I do," he said. "My live shows are a million times better now. If you drink, you can't even remember if it's a good show or not — and that's probably for the best, because it would have been rubbish because I'd have been drunk and not making any sense."

Hale told Byrdie that she decided to quit drinking after spending a few years in the party scene.

"I'm just always trying to surround myself with better people and be the best version of myself possible," she said. "I know it sounds obnoxious to hear people say that, but why not?"

Hale celebrated three years of sobriety with an Instagram post in January 2025. Hale said that since choosing to abstain from alcohol, "I've experienced moments that can only be described as pure miracles and magic."

"I am deeply grateful every day—for the people who have been guiding lights, for a power greater than myself that loves me unconditionally, and for my own perseverance in not giving up," she wrote. "To all of you who have supported my journey, I have felt your love and it means everything to me."

In a conversation with Marc Maron for his "WTF" podcast in 2015, Daniel Radcliffe opened up about his alcohol addiction. 

"There was definitely a time when I was coming out of 'Potter' and I was into the real world, suddenly I was in a world where I'm not going to have that consistency anymore," he said. "I was pretty inconsolable on the last day of 'Potter.' I was really worried. I was living alone, and I think I was really freaked out ... I drank a lot, as has been recorded."

In an interview with British GQ in 2012, Lana Del Rey spoke about her struggles with alcohol and drugs as an underage teen.

"That's really why I got sent to boarding school aged 14 — to get sober," she said. "I was a big drinker at the time. I would drink every day. I would drink alone. ... I knew it was a problem when I liked it more than I liked doing anything else."

She eventually ended up at a rehab center for drug and alcohol addicts when she was 18.

Affleck first checked into rehab in 2001 and has continued to work on his sobriety through the years. In March 2017, the actor took to his Facebook page to talk about going back to rehab. 

"I have completed treatment for alcohol addiction; something I've dealt with in the past and will continue to confront," he wrote. "I want to live life to the fullest and be the best father I can be." 

His ex-wife, Jennifer Garner, took him to rehab again in August 2018. 

In a 2020 interview with The New York Times, Affleck named Bradley Cooper and Robert Downey Jr. as "guys who have been very supportive and to whom I feel a great sense of gratitude."

He also said that it "took me a long time to fundamentally, deeply, without a hint of doubt, admit to myself that I am an alcoholic."

In a 2017 interview with GQ, the actor talked about quitting drinking. 

"I mean, we have a winery. I enjoy wine very, very much, but I just ran it to the ground," he said. "I had to step away for a minute. And truthfully I could drink a Russian under the table with his own vodka. I was a professional. I was good." 

Davis spoke with Health magazine about her addiction in 2010. 

"I'm a recovering alcoholic," she said. "I've never hid it, but I've been sober the whole time I've been famous, so it wasn't like I had to go to rehab publicly."

Keith Urban told Rolling Stone in 2016 that he turned to drugs and drinking in the late '90s. 

"I stepped up my drinking. I started doing more drugs," he said. "Yeah, man. The whole back end of the '90s were just awful."

He added: "You know, early on in my sobriety, there was a period when I wished I hadn't succumbed to drugs and everything the way I did. It sucked up so much creative time, when I should have been in the studio working. But I don't know what came from that time, other than that I'm where I am because of, or in spite of, nobody knows and never will."

"I battled with addiction at a young age and got to the other side of that," he told Haute Living in 2015. "That's an ongoing battle. I think there's a story in there somewhere about trying to find my way through that and making it to where I am today." 

In 2018, he accepted a Spirit of Sobriety award.

"Sixteen years ago … I crashed and washed ashore on the banks of sobriety," he said. "When I was growing up, when I thought of an alcoholic, I thought of some toothless old guy in a trench coat in a basement somewhere. I just never thought that would apply to me. That type of stigma kept me from getting the help that I needed when I knew I needed it."

Butler spoke to Men's Journal in 2012 about being 15 years sober then. He said he went to rehab before he could reach full-blown pill addiction. 

"Maybe a stronger person wouldn't have needed to go," he said. "When you hear the word rehab, you think, 'He's a mess, he's fucked up.' But I'm glad I did it. I've made a shitload of wrong decisions in my life. But I know I've made some right ones as well."

In 2003, the actor opened up to Playboy about being a recovering alcoholic and going to Alcoholics Anonymous.

"It's just all practical," he said. "There are no holes in the program. It's so, so simple. I come in, I ask for help. It has totally changed my life."

Brand went on "Megyn Kelly Today" to discuss his recovery in 2017. He previously had an addiction to heroin and alcoholism. 

"When I started, I took it one day at a time," he said. "Ultimately, I found that spirituality worked for me."

He celebrated 20 years of sobriety in December 2022.

"I'm 20 years clean and sober today," the comedian said on Instagram. "Thank you to all the people who have helped me to remain clean. It's never done on your own."

Ewan McGregor has been sober since 2001. He told Playboy in 2005 that he stopped drinking before it could ruin his life.

"I knew I was lucky, and somehow I knew that if I didn't stop, everything would go tits up — my career, my family, my everything," he said. 

Vogue reported that the model didn't know if she'd make it through the early 2000s. 

"The time between 1998 and 2005 was especially bad," she said. "During that time I avoided looking in the mirror, because I didn't like the person who was looking back at me. To be honest, there were times I thought I wouldn't survive. I used to have a lot of problems. Amongst others I drank too much so I joined Alcoholics Anonymous to get and stay sober."

She is also a member of Narcotics Anonymous. 

"It doesn't matter what walk of life — addiction and alcoholism doesn't discriminate," she said at the Fortune Most Powerful Women International Summit in 2017. 

During an appearance on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" in 2017, Farrell celebrated his recovery. Farrell reportedly checked into rehab again in 2018 as a preventive measure when he began to feel urges, according to The Sun. 

He spoke about getting clean in a 2021 interview with The Irish Times, saying: "After 15 or 20 years of carousing the way I caroused and drinking the way I drank, the sober world is a pretty scary world."

"To come home and not to have the buffer support of a few drinks just to calm the nerves, it was a really amazing thing," Farrell added.

Tim McGraw quit drinking in 2008 when his family and friends began to worry about him.

"When your wife tells you it's gone too far, that's a big wake-up call," he told Men's Health."That, and realizing you're gonna lose everything you have. Not monetarily, not career-wise, but family-wise. I drank too much. I partied too much. And did other things too much." 

Hardy has been sober since he was 25. The actor sobered up in 2003 by using a 12-step program. He told Esquire it was his "first port of call." 

"It was hard enough for me to say, 'I'm an alcoholic,'" he said. "But staying stopped is fucking hard."

Osbourne relapsed in 2021, after almost four years of sobriety.

"I am an addict and had thought that I had enough time under my belt and I could drink like a normal person, and it turns out I cannot and I will never be normal," Osbourne told Extra at the time. 

"This is something I am going to battle for the rest of my life," she added. "It's never going to be easy."

She celebrated one year of sobriety the following year.

"What a difference a year can make!" she wrote on Instagram. "If you would have told me 365 days ago that I would be sober, happy, and about to be a mumma I would have laughed in your face. Life is truly amazing when you do the work. Thank you to everyone that has supported me on this journey."

Goodman struggled with alcoholism for years and even drank while filming the original "Roseanne." At one point, star Roseanne Barr confronted him about it. 

While on Howard Stern's SiriusXM show in March 2018, Goodman said, "She was scared for me, but she was more confrontational. She'd already had a husband go through the process."

He added: "The last four years were pretty bad, and I was drinking at work and [Barr] was scared for me. I was ashamed of myself, but I couldn't stop."

In 2012, Shepard told Playboy that he struggled with an addiction to drugs and alcohol. He said that from the ages of 18 to 29, he was a "heavy smoker, heavy drinker, drug addict, terrible eater, and philanderer."

"I just loved to get fucked-up — drinking, cocaine, opiates, marijuana, diet pills, pain pills, everything," he told Playboy. "Mostly my love was Jack Daniel's and cocaine."

He said that he'd get sober for some movie roles but then get right back into his drug and alcohol habits. 

Shepard's wife Kristen Bell wrote an emotional post on Instagram in September 2018 to celebrate his 14th year of sobriety. 

"I know how much you loved using. I know how much it got in your way. And I know, because I saw, how hard you worked to live without it," she wrote. "I will forever be in awe of your dedication, and the level of fierce moral inventory you perform on yourself, like an emotional surgery, every single night...'m so proud that you have never been ashamed of your story, but instead shared it widely, with the hope it might inspire someone else to become the best version of themselves."

In 2020, Shepard revealed on his podcast, "Armchair Expert," that he relapsed after 16 years of sobriety following a motorcycle accident that resulted in him using painkillers. At the time of the episode's release, the actor was seven days sober. 

The "True Blood" star stopped drinking and went into rehab after the birth of his first son. 

"I got to a point in my life where I was totally out of control," he told The Telegraph in 2017. " I was shocked into doing something about it and fatherhood was definitely a big aspect of that —the catalyst that shook me. And I would never want to go back there." 

He added: "People, say, 'When are you going to be able to have a drink again?' And my answer to that is, 'I've already drunk all the drinks that I was supposed to drink in one lifetime.'"

Following Drake's 30th birthday party, Mayer was hungover for six days. It was after that experience that he decided to stop drinking.

"I looked out the window and I went, 'OK, John, what percentage of your potential would you like to have? Because if you say you'd like 60, and you'd like to spend the other 40 having fun, that's fine," he told Complex. "'But what percentage of what is available to you would you like to make happen? There's no wrong answer. What is it?' I went, '100.'"

During a 2022 interview on the podcast "Call Her Daddy," Mayer said that he hasn't really dated since getting sober.

"I don't think I have to, to be quite honest," he said. "I quit drinking like six years ago, so I don't have the liquid courage. I just have dry courage."

Quaid opened up about his cocaine addiction in an interview with The Sunday Times in 2018.

"I liked coke," he said. "I liked it to go out. I missed it for quite a while. I was doing about two grams a day."

He said he was "lucky" to get a sign that led him to rehab. 

"I had one of those white-light experiences where I saw myself being dead and losing everything I had worked for my whole life, so I put myself in rehab," he said. 

He stopped drinking for 10 years while kicking his drug addiction but later got back into alcohol.

"I started drinking again, because alcohol was never my problem," he said. "I never liked the feeling of being drunk. I would do coke and I would use alcohol to come down." 

Sheen has struggled with alcohol and drug addiction for years. He quit doing cocaine and drinking for 11 years, but he told Dr. Oz in 2016 that he relapsed following his HIV diagnosis. 

"It was to suffocate the anxiety and what my life was going to become with this condition and getting so numb I didn't think about it," he said. "It was the only tool I had at the time, so I believed that would quell a lot of that angst. A lot of that fear. And it only made it worse." 

The actor told Us Weekly in 2019 that his daughter helped him realize he needed to get sober. 

"It was a Sunday. My daughter called and said, 'I need to get to this appointment immediately,' and I'd already had a few drinks," he said.

Sheen called a friend to drive because he couldn't.

"On the drive back, I was just like, 'Damn, man, I'm not available. I'm just not responsible, and there's no nobility in that,'" he said. "It was that night, I just sat with all that." 

Sheen continued: "If you can't be available for the basic necessity of being there for your children, then something really needs to shift. It was that next day that I said, 'All right. It's time. Let's give this a shot.' And then a month went by, a couple months went by, I'm [like], 'Alright. This feels good. This feels good.'"

The actor also told Jay Leno in 2019 that his sobriety "didn't require anything super dramatic and crazy and front-page news."

Back in 2013, Efron went to rehab for an alcohol addiction.

"I was drinking a lot, way too much," he told The Hollywood Reporter about a year after his stint at rehab. "It's never one specific thing. I mean, you're in your 20s, single, going through life in Hollywood, you know? Everything is thrown at you."

He joined Alcoholics Anonymous and started seeing a therapist to help him on his journey, but added that battling addictions is a "never-ending struggle."

He told Elle in 2016 that getting sober provided him with "structure" in his life. 

Curtis has been sober for more than 20 years. In an interview with People magazine in 2018, Curtis revealed that she became addicted to opioids for 10 years following minor plastic surgery in 1989.

"I was ahead of the curve of the opiate epidemic," Curtis told the magazine. "I had a 10-year run, stealing, conniving. No one knew. No one."

Her husband didn't even know until she went to her first recovery meeting in 1999. 

"Getting sober remains my single greatest accomplishment," Curtis said. "Bigger than my husband, bigger than both of my children, and bigger than any work, success, failure. Anything."

Brolin entered rehab in 2013 and honored his five-year anniversary of being sober with an emotional Instagram post detailing a horrific night he was drunk. 

"Drunk: when you think you're having a rip roaring time and the next morning you wake up and your brain has broken into a frenzied beehive, and your body is shattered shards of sharp glass desperately searching for what fits where and your spirit is being eaten by worms with great white bloodied teeth and your heart has shriveled into a black prune churning your intestines to the point where dysentery feels attractive," he wrote. 

He continued: "And you can't remember anything you did so you roll out of bed over last night's urine and you dial your best friend's phone number because you recall him lifting you over his head, your whole self, before you hit and broke through the drywall and, you think, a large aquarium and the phone on the other end rings and he picks it up, that clambering for a phone, the clumsiness of a hardline, and you say: 'What did I do last night?!' and he answers, after a great pause: '…Dude…'. #5years."

In 2021, he celebrated his sobriety by posting a photo of his younger self, accompanied by a lengthy caption.

"Sobriety is finally loving without every thought being about how it affects only you," he said in part. "Sobriety is a moment of being able to love and be consumed by the glee it brings someone else. Sobriety is knowing the difference between selfishness and integrity."

In his 2024 memoir "From Under the Truck," Brolin said that he hit rock bottom when he visited his sickly 99-year-old grandmother while intoxicated. 

"I knew that was going to be the last time I drank," he wrote. 

"It's almost two decades," Delaney shared on Instagram in February 2022. "And I'm shocked and overwhelmed and grateful."

"Twenty years ago I was in jail in a wheelchair and now I'm on a couch, with a lovely quilt, and my life is unrecognizable," he said. 

"I got a lot of help from a lot of wonderful people," the actor added. "I started doing volunteer work after I'd been sober for a while, and through that I met my wife 18 years ago, and we've had so many children together. And I had the courage to pursue the career that I really wanted to."

Delaney lost his two-year-old son Henry in 2018 and credited his sobriety with helping him experience grief. 

"Sobriety allowed me to be a reasonably good dad, husband, and worker through it all," he said on X in 2019, when he celebrated 17 years. "Sobriety allows me to grieve fully, and grief is an expression of love." 

The actor spoke about his sobriety while presenting "Full House" costar Jodie Sweetin with the Writers In Treatment's Experience, Strength and Hope Award for her advocacy work for people in recovery. 

"It took me a long time, a long time disappointing everyone who cared about me, culminating in a terrible DUI where I could have killed somebody," Stamos said. "I hit rock bottom."

He continued: "Jodie lovingly allowed me to walk my own path and when I finally humbled myself to ask for your help, I realized that the perky little blabbermouth had become the master of wisdom and was right by my side during some of the most difficult days of my life." 

In a 2019 Instagram post, John wrote that "29 years ago today, I was a broken man. I finally summoned up the courage to say 3 words that would change my life: 'I need help.'" 

"Thank you to all the selfless people who have helped me on my journey through sobriety," he said. "I am eternally grateful."

John reflected on his addiction in a 2019 interview with Variety, saying that he "had reached the lowest ebb in my life — the absolute bottom."

"I hated myself so much," he said. "I was consumed with shame. All I wanted to do was get well. I put all of the energy I had left toward my recovery."

In an interview with GQ Hype, Kit Harington said that pre-sobriety, it was "physically and emotionally impossible for me not to drink again," and he's "lucky" he got clean before parenthood. (Harington shares a son and a daughter with his wife and "Game of Thrones" costar Rose Leslie.)

"The very fact that I can be proud of it is an achievement," he said, explaining that he used to be self-loathing and despise himself. "So the fact that I am proud of getting sober is in and of itself a mark of being an entirely different person."

Harington added that his sobriety has positively affected his work life, too.

"And now, every set I step onto, whatever work I do, I'm proud of, because I know I put everything into it," he said. "Whereas before I had this huge monkey on my back that was just, like, weighing me down. So yeah, the whole nature of being proud of myself is a relatively new prospect for me."

Flavor Flav, whose real name is William Jonathan Drayton Jr., has been sober since 2020.

On World Mental Health Day in October, he shared an Instagram post days ahead of celebrating four years of sobriety.

"My mental health is an important part of my sobriety journey," he said.

The musician said that he speaks to two therapists: a real one and an AI therapist, whom he uses between his hectic schedule and work travels.

Days before turning 87 in late December, Hopkins shared an encouraging message about his sobriety and the moment he had a wake-up call.

"I was having such fun," Hopkins said in a video shared on Instagram. "But then I realized I was in big, big trouble because I couldn't remember anything and I was driving a car drunk out of my skull."

"Then on that fatal day, I realized I needed help. So I got it," he added. "I phoned up a group of people like me — alcoholic. And that was it. Sober. I've had more fun these 49 years than ever."

Widely regarded as one of the best installments in the franchise, Johnson played an agent for an elite force known as the Diplomatic Security Service.

After the deaths of three DEA agents at the start of "Fast Five," Hobbs was hired to bring in Dominic Toretto (Diesel) and Brian O'Conner (Paul Walker). 

For most of the movie, Hobbs spent time tracking down Dom and his associates.

At one point, Dom and Johnson's character fought one-on-one. But after Hobbs' team was eliminated, he made a truce with Dom's crew and sided with them.

To avenge his fallen team, Hobbs shot Hernan Reyes (Joaquim de Almeida) dead and further defied the law by allowing Dom's team to steal Reyes' vault loaded with millions.   

Hobbs recruited Dom and his crew to help put an end to Owen Shaw's (Luke Evans) globe-trotting, destructive heists.

At the end of the film, after succeeding, Hobbs told Dom, "Til next time" before departing. 

Once again, Hobbs turned to Dom and his team to do whatever was required to take down a villain, played by Jason Statham.

By the end of the movie, Hobbs captured Deckard and escorted him to a heavily guarded solitary cell made of concrete and steel.  

In his since-deleted posts on Facebook and Instagram, Johnson applauded the movie's "incredible hard working crew" and the partners at Universal Studios. But he had some choice words for other people involved. 

"My female co-stars are always amazing and I love 'em. My male co-stars however are a different story," he wrote. "Some conduct themselves as stand up men and true professionals, while others don't. The ones that don't are too chicken shit to do anything about it anyway. Candy asses."

He continued: "When you watch this movie next April and it seems like I'm not acting in some of these scenes and my blood is legit boiling — you're right. Bottom line is it'll play great for the movie and fits this Hobbs character that's embedded in my DNA extremely well."

"I was very clear with what I said. I've been in the game a long time," Johnson told the LA Times. "Would Universal have preferred that didn't happen? Sure, we talked about it. The irony is after that and as they do their tracking and all their analysis, the interest shot through the roof to a whole other level."

"I don't think the world really realizes how close we are, in a weird way," Diesel said. "I think some things may be blown out of proportion. I don't think that was his intention. I know he appreciates how much I work this franchise. In my house, he's Uncle Dwayne."

"I protect the franchise," added the actor, who also serves as producer for the franchise. "I protect everybody including Dwayne. I protected Dwayne more than he'll ever know. And it doesn't matter. He doesn't have to know. But he appreciates it. He knows it."

"Dwayne has only got one Vin in his life," Diesel continued. "Dwayne Johnson only has one big brother in this film world and that's me."

Hobbs called on Dom and his associates to intervene when a new threat presented itself.

During their mission, Dom went rogue and helped the antagonist, Cipher (Charlize Theron).

That led to tension between Diesel and Johnson's characters. 

But in true "Fast" tradition, Dom's crew celebrated another win with a family BBQ at the end of the movie.

Hobbs' record was cleared and he was offered his old job back, but he declined so he could take a break and spend time with his daughter.  

At the time, Deadline reported that the movie was in the early stages and details were sparse. 

"If you move forward with that Hobbs movie you will have purposely ignored the heart to heart moment we had in my sprinter," he wrote in a since-deleted Instagram post. "I don't wanna hear from you until you remember what we talked about."

In a follow-up post that was also erased, Gibson, who plays Roman Pierce, said he was unable to reach Johnson. 

"He won't call me back about this solo #HobbsMovie," Gibson said. "I want you to shoot it just not right now cause the #Fast9 Date has already been announced and we can't let our loyal fans down on any level."

The movie was pushed back a year and Gibson pinned the delay on Johnson and his spin-off,  "Hobbs & Shaw." 

In his Instagram post, Gibson congratulated Johnson and Hiram Garcia, one of Johnson's producing partners, for "making the fast and the furious franchise about YOU."

"Gn folks see you in 2020 April #FastFamily right? Nah..... it's about #TeamDewayne #3yrs will it be worth the wait?" he added. 

Diesel posted a photo of him and Johnson in character and wrote, "I know there has been a lot of speculation as to why the Fast 9 release date was pushed... but it would be unfair to say it is anyone's fault."

"As we plot the course to expand the Fast & Furious universe, one must be mindful to take stock of the roads we took to get here," he continued. "The pillars of authenticity, family and most importantly, our loyal fan's perspective has been instrumental in procuring success.
However, like any vehicle that has run around the globe 8 times, the franchise is in need of maintenance."

Johnson confirmed to Rolling Stone that he and Diesel's scenes for "The Fate of the Furious" were filmed separately. 

"We were not in any scenes together," he said. 

Johnson said that he and Diesel disagreed about their approaches to their work.

"Vin and I had a few discussions, including an important face-to-face in my trailer," he said. "And what I came to realize is that we have a fundamental difference in philosophies on how we approach moviemaking and collaborating. It took me some time, but I'm grateful for that clarity. Whether we work together again or not."

Johnson also cast doubt on whether he'd return for the ninth "Fast & Furious" movie. He said that he was "concentrating" on his spin-off with Jason Statham. 

"But I wish him all the best, and I harbor no ill will there, just because of the clarity we have," Johnson said of Diesel. "Actually, you can erase that last part about 'no ill will.' We'll just keep it with the clarity."

The titular characters formed a reluctant, unlikely alliance in order to save Deckard's sister Hattie (Vanessa Kirby) and stop a modified antagonist named Brixton Lore (Idris Elba). 

"It was a tough character to embody, the Hobbs character," Diesel told the Men's Health. "My approach at the time was a lot of tough love to assist in getting that performance where it needed to be. As a producer to say, OK, we're going to take Dwayne Johnson, who's associated with wrestling, and we're going to force this cinematic world, audience members, to regard his character as someone that they don't know — Hobbs hits you like a ton of bricks."

"That's something that I'm proud of, that aesthetic," Diesel added. "That took a lot of work. We had to get there and sometimes, at that time, I could give a lot of tough love. Not Felliniesque, but I would do anything I'd have to do in order to get performances in anything I'm producing."

Even though Hobbs didn't appear in the film, Johnson was busy promoting other films that year.

He starred alongside Emily Blunt in " Jungle Cruise," had a cameo in "Free Guy," and starred in the action film "Red Notice."

"I laughed and I laughed hard," Johnson told The Hollywood Reporter. "I think everyone had a laugh at that. And I'll leave it at that. And that I've wished them well. I wish them well on 'Fast 9.' And I wish them the best of luck on 'Fast 10' and 'Fast 11' and the rest of the 'Fast & Furious' movies they do that will be without me." 

"I shouldn't have shared that," Johnson said in his November 2021 cover story for Vanity Fair. "Because at the end of the day, that goes against my DNA. I don't share things like that. And I take care of that kind of bullshit away from the public. They don't need to know that."

"Nothing specific happened, just the same old shit," he said about why he spoke publicly. "And that just wasn't my best day."

Still, the "Jungle Cruise" star wouldn't take back his words.

"I meant what I said. For sure," Johnson said. "I mean what I say when I say it. But to express it publicly was not the right thing to do."

The actor also said that he agreed to be in "The Fate of the Furious" as long as he and Diesel didn't share any scenes together because he "wanted to forgo drama. 

"I thought that that was the best thing to do. For everybody," he said.

"My little brother Dwayne... the time has come," Diesel wrote in an Instagram post. "The world awaits the finale of Fast 10. As you know, my children refer to you as Uncle Dwayne in my house. There is not a holiday that goes by that they and you don't send well wishes... but the time has come. Legacy awaits."

"I told you years ago that I was going to fulfill my promise to Pablo," Diesel continued, referring to late costar Paul Walker. "I swore that we would reach and manifest the best Fast in the finale that is 10!"

"I say this out of love... but you must show up, do not leave the franchise idle you have a very important role to play," he said. "Hobbs can't be played by no other. I hope that you rise to the occasion and fulfill your destiny."

"This past June, when Vin and I actually connected not over social media, I told him directly — and privately — that I would not be returning to the franchise," he told CNN. "I was firm yet cordial with my words and said that I would always be supportive of the cast and always root for the franchise to be successful, but that there was no chance I would return. I privately spoke with my partners at Universal as well, all of whom were very supportive as they understand the problem."

Jason Momoa joined the franchise as Dante, the son of "Fast Five" antagonist Hernan Reyes and the villain seeking revenge in "Fast X."

In the "Fast X" end-credits scene, over the phone, Dante warned Johnson that he'd face consequences for killing his father. 

"You took the most important thing in my life from me," Dante said. "Dom drove the car, but you? You pulled the trigger and now I'm gonna make you suffer."

"Fast X" director Louis Leterrier told The Hollywood Reporter that it was a team effort to get Johnson on board. 

"I didn't know Dwayne, personally, but we reached out to Dwayne and Dwayne's team," he explained. "We sort of looked at each other from across the room and winked a few months back, saying, 'We should work together.' And then I had this idea and I presented it to the producers and the studio."

He continued: "And then we reached out to Dwayne and his team and said, 'Just come and watch the movie. You have to love the movie first.' So he came to see the movie and really loved it, and then we started talking."

Diesel also told THR in a separate interview that conversations regarding Johnson and Gal Gadot's return as Gisele "have been going on for a while."

"The conversations are what makes the best movie? What feels right for a franchise? How do you make as many people happy in this world? And both of them clearly make people happy," Diesel said. 

The movie is intended to be a bridge between "Fast X" and the upcoming second part. 

Johnson reacted to the news by sharing a message on X (formerly known as Twitter).

In his post, the actor said that he and Diesel put their history behind them and will "lead with brotherhood and resolve."

"The next Fast & Furious film you'll see the legendary lawman in will be the HOBBS movie that will serve as a fresh, new chapter & set up for FASTX: Part II," Johnson wrote. "Last summer Vin and I put all the past behind us. We'll lead with brotherhood and resolve - and always take care of the franchise, characters & FANS that we love. I've built my career on an  'Audience First' mentality and that will always serve as my North Star."

Diesel and Johnson both attended the show to present different awards.

Before Diesel presented the cinematic and box office achievement award to "Wicked," he looked over at Johnson in the crowd and said, "Hey, Dwayne." As the crowd laughed, Johnson awkwardly smiled back. 

"A Complete Unknown" chronicles Dylan's rise to fame in the '60. Because of delays due to COVID-19 and the Hollywood strikes in 2023, Timothée Chalamet ended up having five to six years — rather than a couple of months — to work on his portrayal of the singer-songwriter.

During that time, he worked with a guitar teacher named Larry Saltzman and a vocal coach named Eric Vetro. In addition to singing, guitar, and harmonica lessons, Chalamet grew out his real nails and kept speaking like Dylan on set even when cameras weren't rolling. Chalamet also told NPR that he gained 2o pounds because he was thinner than Dylan.

Angelina Jolie, who never publicly sang before starring in the 2024 film, spent seven months taking singing, voice, and Italian classes. Even while filming "Maria," Jolie had nightly singing rehearsals to prepare for the next day of shooting.

Marisa Abela worked with a dialect coach, vocal coach, movement coach, music producer, and guitar tutor to fully inhabit the character. Some of her costumes in the film contain real pieces of clothing worn by Winehouse, too.

The 2024 movie "Bob Marley: One Love" explores Marley's rise to fame, his hardships, and his performance at the One Love Peace Concert in Jamaica in 1978.

Ben-Adir worked with a guitar coach, movement coach, dialect coach, and Jamaican language coach to portray Marley. The performance scenes in the movie blend Ben-Adir and Marley's voices.  

Austin Butler landed the role over stars like Miles Teller and Harry Styles, per the LA Times.

To play Presley, the actor watched old interviews of the singer, studied the way he talked and sang, and worked with vocal and movement coaches. Butler also developed a close bond with Priscilla Presley and Lisa Marie Presley during the process of making the film. 

The "Harry Potter" star won a Critics Choice Award for his performance as the eccentric musician. And yes, Radcliffe's thick mustache in the film is completely real. 

The movie is a largely exaggerated retelling of Yankovic's life and career. 

"I watched tons of interviews, and I was constantly playing them on set just so I have the cadence of her voice and the tone in my head," Wood told E! News of her process into becoming Madonna. 

"I just sort of let her loose on set and took the foundation that I had and turned it up and made it the most unhinged, sort of stage mom Madonna that one has ever seen," Wood added.

Naomi Ackie portrayed the Grammy-winning singer at different stages of her life. As part of her preparation, she worked with a vocal coach and listened to original recordings of Houston's isolated vocal tracks.

According to Gary Busey's biography, he played the guitar, recorded the songs for the film, and lost 32 pounds to play Holly.

The film also won two Oscars, for best costume design and best makeup and hairstyling. 

Jason Mitchell's transformation into the late N.W.A rapper Eazy-E for "Straight Outta Compton" blew critics away.

A New York Times review said the actor "consistently out-acts the rest of the performers." Mitchell, who has a similarly built frame to Eazy-E, gained weight, practiced a South Los Angeles accent, and learned how to rap for the role, according to the Los Angeles Times. Corey Hawkins became Dr. Dre and O'Shea Jackson Jr. transformed into his father, Ice Cube, for the film.

English actor Tom Hiddleston transformed into the folk singer, Southern drawl and all, for "I Saw the Light." Hiddleston stayed with singer-songwriter Rodney Crowell for five weeks and was coached in Williams' mannerisms and singing style.

Jett and Stewart met before the movie was filmed so Stewart could learn about the rock star from the musician herself.

"The thing that came through to me was that it was important to her to capture it," Jett told Interview Magazine. "She really wanted to nail it, so I gave her all The Runaways music that I could find; I gave her tapes of me talking...And she really soaked it in. When we were hanging out together on set, it was like I had a mirror image. Even just sitting around, we'd do the same thing at the same time."

Chadwick Boseman spent three hours in the makeup chair for his full-body prosthetics and wig to get the looks. With the help of a vocal coach and choreographer and advice from some of Brown's surviving relatives and Mick Jagger, one of the film's producers, Boseman gave an electrifying performance.

The Puerto Rican actor was met with some backlash because of her heritage. Lopez perfected the late singer's dialect and studied performance footage of the music sensation for the 1997 film.

"This is someone who's fresh in the public's mind, so you need to do your homework on this gig," Lopez told Entertainment Weekly.

To play a younger version of the Beach Boys founder Wilson in "Love & Mercy," Paul Dano learned how to play piano and bass.

Wilson told the Chicago Tribune, "He looked a little bit like me at age 24. But the way he portrayed me producing records — you know? — was very factual, accurate, stimulating."

Dano received a Golden Globe nomination for best supporting actor. John Cusack plays an older Wilson in the film.

He won the Academy Award, Golden Globe, BAFTA Award, Screen Actors Guild Award, and Critics' Choice Award for best actor for his portrayal in the 2004 film. To embody the blind pianist, he had to lose nearly 30 pounds and had his eyes glued shut every day.

Marion Cotillard won numerous awards, including the Oscar for best actress. She wasn't initially considered for the role. But when she met with director Olivier Dahan, he was transfixed by her eyes and how they reminded him of a photo of a teenage Piaf.

Joaquin Phoenix sang all of the songs in the 2005 film, mimicking Cash's signature voice.

"Music is always part of how John communicates what he's feeling and seeing," Phoenix told ABC News. "And that couldn't be faked."

Based on a biography written by Lennon's half-sister Julia Baird, the 2009 film told the story of Lennon's adolescence. It covered his relationship with his aunt, Mimi Smith, and his mother, Julia Lennon, as well as the formation of his first band, the Quarrymen, which would evolve into the Beatles.

Angela Bassett prepared for her audition for the 1993 film with the film's choreographer, and after performing "Proud Mary," she got the role. Laurence Fishburne, who played Ike Turner, also earned an Oscar nomination.

Cheadle was first linked to the biopic about Davis in 2006 when Davis, who died in 1991, was posthumously inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Afterward, Davis' nephew announced Cheadle would play his uncle in a film of his life. Cheadle eventually cowrote a script, signed on to direct, and portrayed the jazz musician in "Miles Ahead."

(Cheadle also portrayed Sammy Davis Jr. in 1998's "The Rat Pack," for which he won a Golden Globe.)

Portraying the "Empress of Blues" "left this mark on me," Queen Latifah told NPR. The singer was praised for her role in the 2015 HBO film "Bessie," which won an Emmy for outstanding television movie.

He reprised the role of Biggie Smalls in "All Eyez on Me," a biopic about Tupac Shakur released in 2017.

Biggie's mother Voletta Wallace was a producer on "Notorious." And according to MTV News, she helped pick Woolard to play her son.

"He came in the room, and I said, 'That's my son,'" Wallace told the outlet.

Valli's life as the front man of The Four Seasons has been documented on Broadway since 2005. Young won a Tony Award for his portrayal. Clint Eastwood brought the story to the big screen in 2014.

To land the role of Morrison in the 1991 film, Kilmer made his own eight-minute video highlighting his singing abilities and changing his looks to match Morrison to send to director Oliver Stone. Once cast, he dieted for months and spent six months rehearsing songs. He also trained with Paul Rothchild, who produced all but one of The Doors' albums. Surviving band members were not thrilled with the film.

Before the movie aired, Russell reportedly told the Los Angeles Times: "I know one thing, there's no in-between. It's either really going to be great or really horrible, just stinking."

It was a success. The film helped shoot Russell's career forward.

"I said, if I'm going to do this, I'm going out in flames. I'm controlling this airplane," Russell told GQ in 2016. "I'm taking it down, or I'm going to break through the clouds my way. And when I did that, that's when I had an epiphany moment, saying, 'Kurt, where have you been your whole life? Wake the f--k up. This is what you're supposed to do.'"

Zoe Saldaña's skin was darkened and the filmmakers added prosthetics to make her appear more like Simone.

In response to the casting choice and backlash, Simone's daughter told Time, "It's unfortunate that Zoe Saldaña is being attacked so viciously when she is someone who is part of a larger picture. It's clear she brought her best to this project, but unfortunately she's being attacked when she's not responsible for any of the writing or the lies."

But she also said she was against the making of the film.

"The project has been tainted from the very beginning," she said. "Clearly, it is not the truth about my mother's life and everyone now knows that. This is not how you want your loved ones remembered."

Quaid practiced piano and took singing lessons for about three to five hours a day in order to learn how to imitate Lewis' piano skills. Though Lewis wasn't a big fan of the film according to AMC, Lewis said Quaid "really pulled it off."

She earned her fourth Oscar nomination for the role.

Meryl Streep wanted to play Cline, but later said, "When I saw ['Sweet Dreams'] ... I couldn't imagine doing it as well or even coming close to what Jessica did because she was so amazing in it."

Goldman beat out Daniel Day Lewis for the part and initially turned down the chance to play Vicious. But after accepting the role, he started to lose weight to mimic Vicious' skeletal body. GQ reported that the actor wasn't eating enough and collapsed in his car, too weak to move.

He told Playboy that he didn't like himself in the film.

"I don't think I played Sid Vicious very well," he said.

About playing the role, Joe Mantegna said, "My goal wasn't to mimic him. It was to capture him."

Lynn had chosen Spacek to play her based on a photo she saw of the actor. To prepare for the role, Spacek traveled with Lynn for a year to study how she spoke and sang. Spacek did all her own singing in the movie.

The biopic about the teen musician earned a Golden Globe nomination. Los Lobos singer David Hidalgo lent his vocals to the film, while Phillips lip-synced the words. A guitar instructor was also on set to coach him on strumming the guitar.

Ross, a famous musician in her own right, played Holiday in this 1972 biographical movie based on Holiday's autobiography of the same name. The movie was nominated for five Oscars, including best actress in a leading role. 

The biopic was told from the perspective of Lavoe's wife Puchi, who was played by Jennifer Lopez. The movie was controversial for focusing on Lavoe's drug addiction and death from AIDS, which he contracted through sharing needles. 

Trumpeter Ben Promane helped Hawke grasp basic trumpet skills and taught him how to look like he played the trumpet with his front tooth missing, like Baker. The 2015 movie was more drama than biopic though. 

The 2013 film was based on the memoir "Behind the Candelabra: My Life with Liberace," written by Scott Thorson, Liberace's lover later in life. Matt Damon plays Thorson in the movie. Michael Douglas didn't actually play the piano for the film. 

Aside from Guthrie and his first wife Mary, most of the people and events portrayed in the 1976 film are fictional. The movie earned six Oscar nominations, including best picture, and won for music and cinematography. 

Rami Malek played the musician in the 2018 movie "Bohemian Rhapsody," named after Queen's hit song. The film followed 15 years of Mercury's life — from the band's beginnings to six years before his death. Malek won an Oscar, Golden Globe, and SAG Award for his portrayal. 

The 2019 biopic "Judy" centered on the "Wizard of Oz" actor's final concerts in London before her death at 47. 

Zellweger won a best actress Oscar for her portrayal.

The Elton John biopic "Rocketman" followed John's rise to musical acclaim starting from childhood and his early partnership with Bernie Taupin. Jamie Bell, Gemma Jones, Bryce Dallas Howard, and Richard Madden also starred in the movie.

"When I saw Taron, I was not looking at him — I was looking at me. And when I was hearing the voice, I was hearing me, but it wasn't me," he told Indie Wire. "Everything about it was extraordinary."

The Netflix movie was a biopic about how rock band Mötley Crüe formed and rose to fame. 

"The Dirt" was adapted from the autobiographical book "The Dirt: Confessions of the World's Most Notorious Rock Band," authored by Mötley Crüe and Neil Strauss. 

Rights to the book were first bought in 2006, but the film moved around to various studios until Netflix bought the rights in 2017. 

"The Dirt" was released on Netflix in 2020.

In November 2019, Netflix shared a first look at the actor transforming into Quintanilla for "Selena: The Series." The show debuted on the streaming service on December 4, 2020, and the second and final part was released on the streamer on May 4, 2021.

"Respect" hit theaters in 2021 and the actor previously said that the late singer specifically asked Hudson to portray her. 

Number of reviews: 124

What it's about: "All We Imagine as Light," written and directed by Payal Kapadia, is set in Mumbai and follows Prabha (Kani Kusruti) and Anu (Divya Prabha), two nurses and roommates, and Parvaty (Chhaya Kadam), their coworker who's a cook at the hospital. The film explores the power of friendship among the three women as they navigate personal challenges, from affairs to eviction.

Why you should watch: Critics are enchanted by Kapadia's second feature film, calling it "dreamlike," "luminous," and a "sensual triumph." The movie feels like an ode to Mumbai, where the bustling city is captured so vibrantly that it becomes a character in the narrative, too.

"All We Imagine as Light" premiered at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival earlier this year, where it won the prestigious Grand Prix award.

Where to watch: In select theaters.

Watch the trailer for "All We Imagine as Light" here.

Number of reviews: 65

What it's about: "Daughters" is a documentary from filmmakers Natalie Rae and Angela Patton about a group of girls getting ready for a dance with their incarcerated dads. For some of them, it will be the only physical contact that they have with their fathers while they serve their prison sentences.

Why you should watch: Critics called "Daughters" emotionally moving, providing a grounded view into what it's like having a family member in prison. Some praised the film for focusing on, and humanizing, its subjects.

"Daughters" earned two awards at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, where it premiered: festival favorite and audience choice: U.S. documentary competition.

Where to watch: Netflix

Number of reviews: 63

What it's about: "Nowhere Special" centers on John (James Norton), a 35-year-old window cleaner and single dad who is raising his 4-year-old son Michael (Daniel Lamont) after the kid's mom leaves following his birth. When John learns that he has a few months left to live, he becomes determined to prepare his son for his death and find a new family for him.

Why you should watch: Uberto Pasolini's drama, originally released in 2021 before getting a US theatrical release this year, is an understated and tender look at life and death. Critics say Norton's performance as a father dying of brain cancer is tear-inducing, and his young costar Lamont shows signs of a promising future as an actor. Despite its heartbreaking premise, "Nowhere Special" maintains a hopeful outlook.

Where to watch: Available to rent or buy on Prime Video and Apple TV+.

Watch the trailer for "Nowhere Special" here.

Number of reviews: 60

What it's about: This documentary, from Academy Award-winning director Ron Howard, follows Jim Henson's storied career, from the Muppets franchise to films like "The Dark Crystal" and "Labyrinth." The film includes footage from Henson's archives, as well as interviews with prior collaborators and family members.

Why you should watch: Critics praised the documentary as capturing Henson's spirit without sanitizing his life. Some wrote that while Howard takes a fairly straightforward biographical approach, it works well for Henson as a subject.

"Jim Henson Idea Man" premiered at the 77th Cannes Film Festival in the "Cannes Classics" section. It won five Emmy awards, including outstanding documentary or nonfiction special and outstanding motion design.

Where to watch: Disney+

Number of reviews: 57

What it's about: Directed by Julian Brave NoiseCat and Emily Kassie, "Sugarcane" follows the aftermath of unmarked graves being discovered near an Indian residential school in Canada that was run by the Catholic Church and closed in 1981. The film tracks a Williams Lake First Nation investigation into abuse and missing children at St. Joseph's mission.

Why you should watch: Critics praised the film as empathetic, sensitive, and in some cases, "devastating." Some praised the film for the way depicts the aftermath of tragedy and injustice.

The film won the U.S. documentary — directing award at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, where it premiered. It has also received documentary film awards at the Sarasota Film Festival, the San Francisco International Film Festival, and from the National Board of Review, among others.

Where to watch: Hulu, Disney+

Number of reviews: 53

What it's about: The coming-of-age Indian film stars Preeti Panigrahi as Mira, a 16-year-old girl constrained by the rules of her boarding school and her strict mother when she develops a connection with a new student named Srinivas (Kesav Binoy Kiron) and expresses interest in exploring her sexuality and desires.

Why you should watch: Critics call "Girls Will Be Girls" a stellar debut for first-time feature filmmaker Shuchi Talati, who also wrote the script. Many agree that the movie tackles typical coming-of-age themes with a cultural specificity that makes "Girls Will Be Girls" stand out from the myriad of other existing films in the genre.

The protagonist's intimate journey is examined with sensitivity and quiet moments that let the cinematography and scene composition do all the talking."

"Girls Will Be Girls" earned the audience award in the world cinema dramatic category at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival.

Where to watch: Available to rent or buy on Prime Video.

Watch the trailer for "Girls Will Be Girls" here.

Number of reviews: 49

What it's about: Directed by Basel Adra, Hamdan Ballal, Yuval Abraham, and Rachel Szor, "No Other Land" is a documentary about Palestine and Israel. It follows the Israeli destruction of Palestinian homes and schools in Masafer Yatta, a group of West Bank villages that Adra calls home. The four directors hail from Palestine and Israel, and filmed over the course of four years.

Why you should watch: Critics described "No Other Land" as "essential," important, and emotionally affecting viewing.

The film has picked up dozens of film festival and critic awards, including the Berlinale documentary film award and Panorama audience award for best documentary film at the Berlin International Film Festival, and best documentary and non-fiction film awards from Los Angeles, Boston, and New York critics groups, among others.

Where to watch: "No Other Land" is available to purchase or rent in some regions, though it does not yet have distribution in the United States.

Number of reviews: 46

What it's about: This documentary, directed by Irene Taylor, tracks Dion's diagnosis with stiff-person syndrome, a condition that causes the muscles to stiffen involuntarily. The documentary includes archival footage from Dion's storied career, and follows her through her diagnosis, treatment, and desire to return to the stage.

Why you should watch: Critics called the documentary "raw," doing justice to Dion's legendary career while humanizing her as as a subject. Adrian Horton of the Guardian called the film "unabashedly sentimental" and "deeply earnest."

Where to watch: Prime Video

Number of reviews: 46

What it's about: The A24 dark comedy stars Susan Chardy as Shula, a woman who discovers her Uncle Fred's body on the road one night. With the dayslong funeral proceedings underway, she must confront the secrets of her middle-class Zambian family.

Why you should watch: Critics say the film is compelling and intriguing, with a script that deftly balances its serious subject material with moments of humor. Many have also praised Nyoni's sharp directing style and her exploration of the political, cultural, and social facets of Zambian life.

Where to watch: "On Becoming a Guinea Fowl" is currently not available to stream. It will be released in limited theaters on March 7.

Watch the trailer for "On Becoming a Guinea Fowl" here.

Number of reviews: 45

What it's about: Directed by Laurent Bouzereau, "Music By John Williams" examines the storied composer's career and work across multiple franchises. The film features interviews with people like Steven Spielberg, who worked with Williams on films like "Jaws" and "E.T.," and George Lucas, creator of "Star Wars" and "Indiana Jones."

Why you should watch: Critics wrote that the film was a fitting tribute to Williams and a lovely celebration of his work. Some praised the film's depiction of Williams' relationships with filmmakers, including Spielberg and Lucas.

"Music By John Williams" won the award for best music documentary at the Critics Choice Documentary Awards.

Where to watch: Disney+

Watch the trailer for "Music By John Williams" here.

Number of reviews: 42

What it's about: The comedy, written and directed by Shane Atkinson, stars Steve Zahn as a private detective named Skip and John Magaro as Ray, a man who becomes depressed after he learns that his wife is cheating on him. As Ray is about to shoot himself with a gun and end his life, his life takes a wild turn when he gets mistaken for a hitman and becomes involved in an assassination plan.

Why you should watch: Critics say that Atkinson's feature directorial debut is an entertaining thrill ride, toeing the line between believable absurdity and over-the-top shenanigans. The influence of and nods to the filmmaking brothers Joel and Ethan Coen are plentiful, and the movie is bolstered by a solid cast comprised of Magaro, Zahn, and Dylan Baker.

"LaRoy, Texas" won three major prizes at the 49th Deauville American Film Festival: the Grand Prize, the Audience Award, and the Critics Award.

Where to watch: Available to rent or buy on Prime Video and Apple TV+. Also available to stream on MGM+.

Watch the trailer for "LaRoy, Texas" here.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 13%

Summary: In "Mother of the Bride," Brooke Shields stars as Lana Winslow, the mother of the bride-to-be and lifestyle influencer Emma Winslow (Miranda Cosgrove). As part of Emma's six-figure sponsorship deal, she and her fiancé RJ (Sean Teale) head to Thailand for their wedding ceremony

The milestone event becomes complicated when Lana learns that RJ's father is Will Jackson (Benjamin Bratt), her college boyfriend who broke her heart.

Critics said the film ticked off the boxes of a typical rom-com but recycled the genre's familiar tropes without adding anything memorable. Even a cast of seasoned actors like Shields and Bratt couldn't do much for the underdeveloped, dull characters.

"No matter how contrived this premise may feel, 'Mother of the Bride' skids off into its many equally predictable subplots with abandon, despite none being staged with the kind of charm required for us to forgive their inevitability," Manuel Betancourt wrote for The A.V. Club.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 35%

Summary: "Our Little Secret" stars Lohan and "Pretty Little Liars" actor Ian Harding as exes Avery and Logan, respectively, who unexpectedly spend the holidays together because their new partners are siblings.

Avery and Logan try to keep their past relationship a secret, but when they reconnect, they realize that they may be more compatible now than they were 10 years ago when they broke up.

Critics felt that Lohan, who carved out a space for herself as Netflix's latest rom-com queen, and Kristin Chenoweth, who plays the fiery potential mother-in-law, stood out in the cast. Overall, though, the movie fell short of expectations.

"The screenplay, from Hailey DeDominicis, lacks the vibrancy you expect from a lighthearted holiday movie," Emily Zemler wrote for The Observer. "Sure, there are a few genuine emotional moments and Lohan aptly gives Avery as much dimension as possible, but there's only so much she and Chenoweth can do to liven things up."

Rotten Tomatoes score: 36%

Summary: Personal assistant Zara Ford's (Joey King) dynamic with her self-absorbed, high-maintenance movie star boss Chris Cole (Zac Efron) becomes complicated when he starts dating her mom, a writer and widow named Brooke Harwood (Nicole Kidman).

Although some critics said the movie had a few redeeming qualities, "A Family Affair" was largely deemed a dud and devoid of the chemistry Kidman and Efron shared when they last played romantic interests in the 2012 film "The Paperboy."

"Despite a starry cast and endearing performance from Joey King, 'A Family Affair' is as messy as the conflicting professional and personal relationships it depicts," Hanna Ines Flint wrote for IGN. "A convoluted and superficial script and yawning direction fail to deliver character stakes worth getting behind."

Rotten Tomatoes score: 41%

Summary: "Lonely Planet," written and directed by Susannah Grant, follows a reclusive novelist named Katherine (Laura Dern) who goes to Morocco for a writers' retreat.

Katherine, who's older than the other retreat attendees, just wants a quiet place to snap out of her writer's block and has no interest in participating in group activities. But while there, she develops a connection with Owen (Liam Hemsworth), a man in finance who's at the retreat with his girlfriend Lily (Diana Silvers). As Owen's relationship with Lily falters, he and Catherine get swept up in an age-gap affair.

The movie — which falls more into the romantic drama category than the rom-com group — doesn't generate enough steam between the two main characters or tell a memorable story.

"If the Netflix romance depicts a once-in-a-lifetime encounter, the experience of actually watching it is decidedly more mundane," Angie Han wrote for The Hollywood Reporter. "Neither dull enough to be painful nor fun enough to be engaging, it's simply too bland to make much of an impression at all."

Rotten Tomatoes score: 42%

Summary: Lohan stars as a book editor named Maddie Kelly who is in love with Paul Kennedy (Alexander Vlahos), an author she's worked with for years. Before Maddie can tell Paul how she feels about him, Paul falls in love with her best friend, Emma (Elizabeth Tan) and they get engaged.

When the trio head to Ireland for Paul and Emma's wedding, Maddie makes a wish on an ancient stone and wakes up as Paul's bride-to-be.

Critics said that Lohan's chemistry with Ed Speelers, who plays the photographer that audiences know Maddie is bound to actually fall in love with, made the movie enjoyable amid its clichés.

"The movie is as frothy as the foam on a pint of Guinness, as formulaic as the last disposable Netflix rom-com," Owen Gleiberman wrote for Variety. "Yet these two make you believe that they belong together, and not every romantic comedy does that."

Rotten Tomatoes score: 43%

Summary: In "Find Me Falling," real-life musician Harry Connick Jr. plays John Allman, a rock star in a career slump. So, he moves to a home in Cyprus with a picturesque view to take a break from his career. Unbeknownst to John, he got a good deal on the property because the cliff-side area is known as a "suicide hot spot."

As fate would have it, he bumps into an old flame named Sia (Agni Scott), who he met years prior and inspired his most popular love song.

Critics said that one of the film's biggest flaws was its mishandling of the subject matter.

"The subplot about suicide just outside John's doorstep feels strangely glib, dampening the mood of this escapist rom-com from the jump: the movie is called 'Find Me Falling after all," Monica Castillo wrote for RogerEbert.com, adding that this aspect of the plot is "played for laughs" at times.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 44%

Summary: After a Broadway dancer named Ashley Davis (Britt Robertson) is replaced by a younger performer, she returns home for the holidays. When she learns that her parents' venue, The Rhythm Room, is in danger of shutting down due to overdue bills, Ashley concocts a plan to bring in money and save it before Christmas: an all-male revue called "The Merry Gentleman."

Along the way, she develops feelings for Luke (Chad Michael Murray), an attractive local carpenter and handyman who reluctantly agrees to participate in the show.

Critics said the film was formulaic with little excitement to offer audiences beyond the male characters baring their abs while dancing shirtless onstage.

"Murray and Robertson feel tired as leads, and while Murray is making it work onstage, the more conventional scenes all feel like they're missing some holiday spice (among other things)," Samantha Bergeson wrote for IndieWire.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 53%

Summary: "Jane the Virgin" star Gina Rodriguez plays Mack, a 33-year-old sportswriter who has spent years creating successful hookup schemes as part of a playbook with her friends. When she sets her sights on Nick Russell (Tom Ellis), a war reporter and eligible bachelor, Mack and her crew devise a plan to reel him in. As Mack starts falling for Nick, she realizes that she wants a serious relationship.

Critics had mixed feelings on "Players," but many agreed that Rodriguez's charm, along with other winning components, made the film worth watching.

"It's not reaching for unique twists or spectacular splashes. It's not trying to reinvent, reimagine, or re-do anything about the pursuit of love," Lovia Gyarkye wrote for The Hollywood Reporter. "No, it's trying to win you over with the basics: attractive leads with chemistry, a bit of triangular tension, a gallery of witty friends, and a lesson tucked into a heartwarming story."

Rotten Tomatoes score: 69%

Summary: In "Meet Me Next Christmas," Christina Milian stars as Layla, a woman who has a magical encounter with a man named James (Kofi Siriboe) at an airport lounge.

The pair make a deal to meet up again next Christmas at the concert of the a cappella group Pentatonix, but when the time comes, Layla's dismayed to learn that tickets are all sold out. Determined to reconnect with her dream guy, Layla taps a concierge service to help her get a coveted ticket to the show.

But along the way, Layla finds herself torn by her feelings for James and Teddy (Devale Ellis), her concierge.

Critics said that "Meet Me Next Christmas" contained familiar rom-com tropes, but it was an enjoyable watch.

"While it certainly isn't breaking new ground in any capacity, the movie is a feel-good moment that gets us into the holiday spirit," Ben Gibbons wrote for Screen Rant.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 76%

Summary: "Hot Frosty" centers on Kathy Barrett (Lacey Chabert), a woman who magically brings a snowman to life two years after her husband's death. As Kathy helps the snowman-turned-human named Jack Snowman (Dustin Milligan) acclimate to real life, she finds herself laughing and falling in love again — and desperate to save him from melting.

Even with an absurdly goofy plot, "Hot Frosty" delighted critics.

"It's cheap and it's silly and it has a laughable premise that some people will mistake for terribleness. But it's also winking and whimsical. It knows what it's doing and it's doing it on purpose. Somehow it actually kind of works," William Bibbiani wrote for The Wrap.

Worldwide gross: $350,986,018

Reported production budget: $25 million

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 55%

The film adaptation of Colleen Hoover's novel "It Ends With Us" was one of the biggest surprises at the 2024 box office.

In less than two weeks in theaters, the movie surpassed $180 million at the box office globally — a tremendous feat for a project that was reportedly financed for just $25 million. It's possible that fans of the book and those aware of the reports of a rift between Blake Lively and costar and director Justin Baldoni were intrigued by "It Ends With Us" and wanted to see what all the hype was about.

Worldwide gross: $370,962,265

Reported production budget: $155 million

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 75%

After the box-office success of the rom-com "Anyone But You," Glen Powell continued his hot streak in Hollywood starring alongside Daisy Edgar-Jones in the stand-alone sequel to the 1996 disaster movie "Twister."

"Twisters" surpassed box office predictions, earning $32.2 million from release day and preview screenings and scoring a solid $80.5 million during its opening weekend.

Worldwide gross: $397,378,150

Reported production budget: $160 million

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 80%

Although "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" is one of the top-performing movies of the year, it earned the lowest global total compared to the three other films in the rebooted "Planet of the Apes" franchise.

Worldwide gross: $404,544,199

Reported production budget: $100 million

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 65%

Two years after his infamous slap at the Oscars, Will Smith made a comeback and regained box office glory with the fourth installment in the action-comedy franchise "Bad Boys."

"Ride or Die" was a hit domestically and overseas. In its opening weekend, the movie topped the global box office, making over $100 million and overperforming in key markets.

Worldwide gross: $406,644,901

Reported production budget: $250 million to $300+ million

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 71%

"Gladiator II," didn't win over critics as much as Ridley Scott's epic 2000 film "Gladiator," though many agreed that it delivered plenty of thrilling action sequences.

The sequel fell short of the first "Gladiator" movie at the box office too, grossing $100 million less — though still bringing in an impressive haul to end up on this list.

Worldwide gross: $451,100,435

Reported production budget: $100 million

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 76%

Nostalgic sequels don't always equate to success, but Tim Burton's "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" was a slam dunk for Warner Bros.

Executives initially wanted the sequel to the 1988 "Beetlejuice" movie to forgo a theatrical release and head straight to streaming. But Burton disagreed. So they cut costs to lower the budget and justify a theatrical release — and it paid off.

"Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" earned $41.5 million from release day and preview screenings, becoming the second-biggest opening day ever for a September release, after 2017's horror movie "It." The movie is also one of Burton's most commercially successful films.

Worldwide gross: $476,368,152

Reported production budget: $120 million

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 41%

Sony's films about Spider-Man-adjacent characters don't have a great track record. But the "Venom" franchise, starring Tom Hardy, has become a fan favorite among the more disappointing and flat-out cringy movies. However, the third and final installment was the worst-performing "Venom" film at the box office.

Worldwide gross: $547,689,492

Reported production budget: $85 million

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 71%

The fourth "Kung Fu Panda" film, starring Jack Black as the voice of the panda named Po, earned the franchise's lowest critics' score on Rotten Tomatoes but racked up $26.5 million more than 2016's "Kung Fu Panda 3."

Worldwide gross: $571,750,016

Reported production budget: $135 million

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 54%

"Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire," centered on the titular gargantuan creatures teaming up after being enemies in 2021's "Godzilla vs. Kong," rocked the box office.

"Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire" surpassed box office projections in its opening weekend and became the second-biggest debut for Warner Bros. and Legendary's shared MonsterVerse franchise.

With $571 million earned globally, "Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire" is now the highest-grossing movie in the Monsterverse.

Worldwide gross: $586,301,620

Reported production budget: $150 million

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 88%

Jon M. Chu's film adaptation of the wildly popular stage musical of the same name was a critical and commercial success.

"Glicked," the combined name for the rivalry between "Gladiator II" and "Wicked," was this year's version of the 2023 "Barbenheimer" phenomenon. In the battle between gladiators and witches, the latter was the clear winner. "Wicked" earned a higher Rotten Tomatoes score and has grossed over half a billion at the global box office, so far.

Despite not being explicitly advertised as such, "Wicked" is the first in a two-part franchise. The sequel, "Wicked: For Good," hits theaters in November 2025.

Worldwide gross: $714,444,358

Reported production budget: $190 million

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 92%

Following the success of the 2021 "Dune" adaptation, Denis Villeneuve released a sequel that completed Paul Atreides' (Timothée Chalamet) journey from Frank Herbert's first "Dune" novel.

Hailed by critics as a "sci-fi masterpiece," the 2024 sequel was rated higher and grossed $300 million more worldwide than "Dune: Part One."

Worldwide gross: $820,990,553

Reported production budget: $150 million

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 61%

"Moana 2" didn't make nearly as big a splash in pop culture as the original film did with catchy songs like "How Far I'll Go" and "You're Welcome." The sequel also had a drastically lower rating on Rotten Tomatoes than "Moana," which landed a 95% critics score.

Regardless, "Moana 2" performed much higher at the box office and was a clear win for Disney. The movie even broke Thanksgiving box office records, racking up $380 million globally at the time.

Worldwide gross: $969,126,452

Reported production budget: $100 million

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 56%

Since the first "Despicable Me" movie was released in 2010, the franchise has been lucrative for Illumination Entertainment and Universal Studios.

The fourth installment fell short of earning $1 billion, which "Despicable Me 3" achieved in 2017. "Despicable Me 4" also received the lowest critics score of all the movies on Rotten Tomatoes.

Worldwide gross: $1,338,073,645

Reported production budget: $200 million

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 78%

Some recent entries in the Marvel Cinematic Universe have received middling reactions from fans and critics alike, but the success of "Deadpool & Wolverine" indicates that perhaps the superhero slump might be over.

The third installment of the "Deadpool" franchise earned a lower critic score on Rotten Tomatoes than the previous two movies. But the Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman team-up surpassed the global earnings of its predecessors and is one of two films released in 2024 to hit $1 billion at the box office.

After less than 30 days in theaters, "Deadpool & Wolverine" dethroned Todd Phillips' 2019 film "Joker" to become the highest-grossing R-rated movie of all time.

Worldwide gross: $1,698,765,616

Reported production budget: $200 million

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 91%

"Inside Out 2" fully surpassed expectations, grossing $155 million domestically and $295 million worldwide in its debut three-day weekend. The "Inside Out" sequel also earned the second-biggest domestic opening ever for an animated movie, following "Incredibles 2." It ended up being the highest-grossing film of 2024.

The "Doctor Who" special, released on Christmas Day, follows the Fifteenth Doctor (Ncuti Gatwa) as he and a woman named Joy (Nicola Coughlan) meet at the Time Hotel and embark on a time-traveling adventure.

Streaming on: Disney+

In Jon Favreau's 2003 movie "Elf," Will Ferrell plays Buddy, a human raised by elves who experiences culture shock when he travels to New York City in search of his biological father.

Streaming on: Hulu, Max

The iconic 2006 Nancy Meyers rom-com stars Cameron Diaz as Amanda and Kate Winslet as Iris, two heartbroken women who swap homes during the holidays and end up striking up new romances.

Streaming on: Prime Video

In season two of Netflix's breakout hit, Seong Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae), known as Player 456, returns to the games and tries to end the deadly competition for good. The new season features two major plot twists, a high-stakes finale, and a tease for "Squid Game" season three, coming in 2025.

Streaming on: Netflix

The three-episode docuseries follows Rodgers as he recovers from an Achilles heel injury, experiments with alternative medicine, and draws controversy for his stance on the COVID-19 vaccine.

Streaming on: Netflix

The documentary is based on the real-life story of Xaviar Babudar, a Kansas City Chiefs mega fan who funded his obsession through a series of bank and credit union robberies in 2022. Babudar, who was known as "ChiefsAholic," was charged with 19 counts in 2023.

Streaming on: Prime Video

The one-hour special chronicles the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson on a sidewalk in Manhattan in early December and unpacks the public's fascination with Luigi Mangione, who was arrested in Altoona, Pennsylvania, after a five-day hunt for the killer.

The primetime special hit Hulu on December 20, after premiering on ABC the night prior. Mangione pleaded not guilty to state and federal murder charges.

Streaming on: Hulu

Anna Kendrick portrays the titular Alice, a woman who goes on a vacation with two friends amid issues with her psychologically abusive boyfriend.

Streaming on: Hulu

"Culpa Tuya" (which translates to "Your Fault") is the sequel to 2023 movie "Culpa Mia" ("My Fault") and continues the love story between the characters Nick (Gabriel Guevara) and Noah (Nicole Wallace).

The YA films are based on Mercedes Ron's New York Times best-selling book trilogy "Culpables."

Streaming on: Prime Video

After hosting "Saturday Night Live" for the second time and performing at the Netflix Is a Joke Festival earlier this year, stand-up comedian Nate Bargatze released this third comedy special on Netflix.

Streaming on: Netflix

After experiencing livestreaming difficulties during the Mike Tyson and Jake Paul boxing match, Netflix was prepared for the Beyhive turnout for Beyoncé's halftime performance at the Baltimore Ravens vs. Houston Texans game on Wednesday. The Texas native performed an array of tracks from her country album "Cowboy Carter" and brought out surprise guests including her daughter Blue Ivy Carter, Post Malone, and Shaboozey.

In case you missed her performance or want to watch it over and over again, "Beyoncé Bowl" is now available as a stand-alone special on the streamer.

Streaming on: Netflix

Season four of "Abbott Elementary" picks up with Janine (Quinta Brunson) and Gregory (Tyler James Williams) officially dating after their slow-burn romance played in the show's previous seasons. At the start of this season, the pair are unsuccessfully trying to keep their relationship a secret from their Abbott Elementary coworkers when they return to school.

The writing of "Abbott Elementary" remains as sharp and culturally relevant as ever, and the latest season sprinkles in new characters that keep the show fresh and exciting — from Jacob's younger brother Caleb (Tyler Perez) and an IT guy named O'Shon (Matthew Law) whom the staff have a crush on to a lovable guinea pig named Sweet Cheeks who breaks through Melissa's (Lisa Ann Walter) tough exterior. — Olivia Singh

Netflix and Riot Games' "Arcane" is one of the most impressive and ambitious animated works of the past decade — and while it doesn't always find its footing, the end result is still so spectacular.

The series is adapted from Riot Games' massively popular video game "League of Legends," honing in on a small cast of characters who live in Piltover, the gleaming city of progress, and Zaun, its less-than-scintillating undercity. The conflict between the two cities has reached a critical point by season two. Unfortunately for all parties, so has the evolution of Hextech, a magic-powered technology that has spiraled out of control and turned one of its developers into a misguided messiah. Oops!

Season two is nothing if not ambitious and widens its scope while leveling up its already excellent animation, courtesy of the French studio Fortiche. In the process, it loses some of the intimate character work and tight focus that made its first season truly extraordinary. Still, the second season serves as a fitting conclusion and is a harbinger of good things to come from Riot's entertainment arm. — Palmer Haasch

Read Haasch's interview with "Arcane" showrunner Christian Linke.

Few shows caused as much of a stir this year as "Baby Reindeer," starring and written by comedian Richard Gadd. Netflix and the creator himself billed the series as a true story based on Gadd's real-life experience of being stalked by an older woman. Unfortunately, the show's stalker character, Martha Scott, was quickly outed as Fiona Harvey, who took legal action against the streamer.

Despite all the behind-the-scenes controversy, "Baby Reindeer" is a work of art. Gadd lays himself bare as Donny, who's loosely based on himself. He's a powerhouse in episode four, which flashes back to explain the source of Donny's trauma before meeting Martha.

It's an engrossing watch with equally powerful performances from Jessica Gunning, who plays the disturbed but deeply sad Martha, and Nava Mau, who plays Donny's girlfriend, Teri. — Caralynn Matassa

Read about the legal drama behind "Baby Reindeer.'

If "The Boys" is Prime Video's NSFW answer to superhero fare like the Marvel Cinematic Universe, then season four feels like the equivalent of "Avengers: Infinity War" — minus a snap from a villain that wipes out half the universe.

Season four of "The Boys" is darker than past seasons, as the characters confront deep-seated traumas. For an aging Homelander (Anthony Starr), this means grappling with the legacy he'll leave behind for his son Ryan. For his nemesis Billy Butcher (Karl Urban), it means coming to terms with his looming death and trying to prevent Ryan from succumbing to Homelander's darkness.

It's a season filled with even more gory, jaw-dropping scenes and yet another Emmy-worthy performance by Starr, particularly in Homelander's gory homecoming episode.

The endgame is nearing, with a fifth and final season of "The Boys" likely premiering in 2026. Season four ends with the perfect foundation for all hell to break loose one last time. — OS

It's astounding that it took this long for Brian Jordan Alvarez to get a series order after the release of his excellent 2016 web series "The Gay and Wondrous Life of Caleb Gallo" — but thankfully, "English Teacher" premiered this year.

The series stars Alvarez as Evan Marquez, a beleaguered but idealistic Texas high school teacher who comes under fire at work when a parent complains about him kissing his ex-boyfriend in front of the students.

While "English Teacher" embraces the thorny politics of being an American educator in 2024, it doesn't spin them into saccharine teaching moments or cheap jokes. It mines them for character threads and comedy. — PH

With "Fallout," Jonathan Nolan proved that prestige-y video game adaptations weren't exclusive to HBO. Rather than directly adapting one of the multiple games in the postapocalyptic "Fallout" universe, Nolan instead leverages the style, humor, and striking visual identity of the games to show us something new.

"Fallout" stars Ella Purnell as Lucy, a naive resident who grew up in an underground bunker known as a Vault, established to protect humanity from nuclear armageddon. However, after tragedy befalls her home, she ventures to the surface, only to learn it isn't as deserted or unsurvivable as she was led to believe.

The series features stellar performances from Purnell and Walton Goggins, who spends most of the season admirably noseless. And while it's set in the grim aftermath of a nuclear apocalypse, it's also irreverently funny and endearing. — PH

Read Eammon Jacobs' review of "Fallout" and Jason Guerrasio's interview with Walton Goggins.

The Max original "Hacks" has only gotten better with age, and in season three, it feels like the show has hit its stride.

The show follows veteran stand-up comedian Deborah Vance, who, on the coattails of a successful comedy special, is gunning for her dream: a late-night hosting gig. After cutting her young writer, Ava Daniels, loose at the end of season two, Deborah realizes that she needs Ava — and Ava craves working with Deborah again, too.

This central relationship — and all the ways Deobrah and Ava support, encourage, and mess each other up — is constantly in flux. Season three not only succeeded in being funnier and more resonant than its predecessors but also in shifting Deborah and Ava's power dynamic into something new and a bit dangerous ahead of season four. — PH

Read Haasch's interview with "Hacks" stars Carl Clemons-Hopkins and Mark Indelicato.

Move over, "Succession" — there's another contender for the best HBO show about horny, psychopathic capitalists. "Industry," the show about London's most dedicated and depraved bankers, finally broke through to the mainstream with its third season.

Seasons one and two delivered well-written, well-acted, character-driven drama about the highs and lows of a group of young bankers trading stocks (and spit). Still, season three upped the ante, spending more time away from the office in lavish locations, such as the English countryside, a yacht in the Mediterranean, and a Davos-like conference in Switzerland.

The change in scenery enhanced the story and deepened our understanding of the series' core group of complicated characters, most of whom have greatly evolved since we first saw them sitting and sweating at their Pierpoint desks.

All of it leads to an explosive finale that's massive in both budget and sheer plot, effectively wiping the slate clean for a now-confirmed season four. It's an appropriately daring move for a show confident in its vision. It's peak TV at its peak. — Samantha Rollins

Read Rollins' interview with "Industry" showrunners Mickey Down and Konrad Kay.

There were many (many) reality dating shows that aired in 2024. Having regrettably watched most of them, I can confirm that the latest installment of "Love Island USA" blew them all out of the water.

The franchise, which spun off of the UK edition, has the secret sauce that makes this genre sing. It's largely thanks to a format that other shows have tried — and failed — to replicate, wherein participants must constantly recouple to find true love (and win a cash prize).

Season six had a particularly explosive set of personalities among its cast, leading to some serious drama, shocking betrayals, truly memorable moments, and fan-favorite standouts, including Serena Page, Leah Kateb, and Jana Craig. — CM

"A Man on the Inside" is initially presented as a spy mystery series as Charles Nieuwendyk (Ted Danson), a widower who recently lost his wife, accepts a job to go undercover in a retirement home.

That's all background noise to the main event, which follows the lives of a kooky gang of residents who find community with each other after being left behind by their loved ones.

Anyone who has seen Danson in any of his other many roles would not be surprised that he is an incredible leading man. However, the show's real strength is the supporting cast, especially Margaret Avery, Stephen McKinley Henderson, and Sally Struthers, who provide so much humor and heart that they may make you shed tears.

"A Man on the Inside" proves we really need more TV shows centered on older characters, and there's ample talent out there to make those stories worth watching. — Ayomikun Adekaiyero

Read Rollins' interview with "A Man on the Inside" creator Mike Schur.

Prime Video's "Mr. and Mrs. Smith," a reboot of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie's 2005 film (mostly in name only), is deeply funny, emotionally stirring, and clever.

Sure, both titles share a similar premise — a husband and wife who are both assassins — but the television series flips it on its head to create something much better.

Donald Glover and Maya Erskine play two strangers who, upon taking a new job as shady agents for a mysterious boss, are paired together as a cover story.

The 10-episode season features a laundry list of guest stars, ranging from Ron Perlman to Micaela Coel. — PH

Read Haasch's review of "Mr. and Mrs. Smith" and Jacobs' interview with guest star Ron Perlman.

Rom-coms are so back.

Six years after Netflix was credited with a rom-com renaissance thanks to hits like "Set It Up" and "To All the Boys I've Loved Before," the streamer struck gold again with "Nobody Wants This," a comedy series starring Kristen Bell and Adam Brody. The show became an instant hit, proving audiences yearn for more high-quality modern rom-coms.

"Nobody Wants This," created by Erin Foster and loosely inspired by her love story, follows Noah (Brody), an attractive and newly single rabbi, and Joanne (Kristen Bell), the outspoken agnostic host of a sex podcast. Despite their different views on religion and lifestyle, they pursue a relationship.

Noah and Joanne's swoon-worthy first kiss scene went viral, people realized that Brody had been leading man material all along, and the show jumped to the No. 2 slot on the streamer's Top 10 list for English-language TV in the week of its debut. Unsurprisingly, "Nobody Wants This" will be returning for a second season, which begins filming in February. — OS

The second attempt at bringing David Nicholls' bestselling novel "One Day" to the screen (after a 2011 film adaptation) is a rousing success.

The novel of the same name is already beautifully tragic, relatable, and perspective-altering, but the Netflix show amplifies all these strengths with gut-punching performances from leads Leo Woodall and Ambika Mod, who play destined lovers Dexter and Emma.

With each episode set in a different year, "One Day" takes audiences on a 14-year journey as the two grow into adults and fall in love with other people and each other, but never at the right time. For romantics or young people worried about the future, this is the show to watch from 2024. — AA

Colin Farrell leads the spinoff sequel to the 2022 film "The Batman," playing the titular comic book villain Oz "Penguin" Cobb. It was fascinating how quickly it became apparent that the show had more in common with "The Sopranos" than nearly anything DC Studios has released.

Farrell utterly transforms as Cobb, the mobster clawing to the top in Gotham after the death of crime boss Carmine Falcone in "The Batman" left a power vacuum. Still, Cristin Milioti is the real standout as Sofia Falcone, Carmine's daughter and accused psychopathic serial killer, fresh out of a stay in Arkham State Hospital. — CM

Read Jacobs' interview with "The Penguin" showrunner Lauren LeFranc.

On its surface, "The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives" was a show greenlit solely because of a TikTok scandal where several couples in a Mormon community were implicated in an alleged swinging scandal. That premise didn't seem like it'd carry far, but turns out the swinging was possibly the least dramatic thing about these women.

After a moderately slow start, "Secret Lives" turns the dial up to 11 in episode four, a group birthday vacation where all hell breaks loose as the group of friends and frenemies start calling one another out. (Shout out to the truth box, the real MVP.)

It was hard not to root for Taylor Frankie Paul and follow her tumultuous relationship with Dakota Mortensen or to root against the deeply annoying Whitney Leavitt, who became the sleeper villain of season one. We're dying to see what becomes of MomTok when the show returns in 2025. — CM

Read Haasch's interview with Taylor Frankie Paul and Mayci Neeley.

There was no stopping "Shōgun" at the 2024 Emmys, and for good reason. Based on James Clavell's 1975 novel, the stunning historical epic focuses on an English sailor who finds himself shipwrecked in Japan and crosses paths with Lord Toranga, a powerful warlord.

With incredible performances, sweeping visuals, and mesmerizing battle sequences, it's no wonder the show set a record for the most Emmys won by a single season of television and that the creators decided to rethink their limited series plan and continue the show with second and third seasons. — CM

They were the words heard 'round the reality TV-loving world: "Oh lord, not Ekin-Su."

Few shows were as memed as "The Traitors," the US iteration of the international competition series where reality stars and celebrities try to deceive one another to claim a cash prize.

Season one, which aired in 2023, was entertaining, but season two reached new heights, largely thanks to compulsively watchable characters like meme factory Phaedra Parks and "Shahs of Sunset" star MJ Javid, who gave us one of the best reaction shots of the year. — CM

Read Matassa's interview with "Big Brother" alum Dan Gheesling, who tried and failed to extend his gaming skills to "The Traitors."

Not only did "X-Men '97" expertly capture the spirit of the original animated "X-Men" series, but it also made it feel modern and relevant to the 2020s amid some gorgeously animated action.

The performances are seamless with the original show, adding new dimensions to the Marvel Universe that fans, new and old, will appreciate.

It deserves all of the praise for easily navigating the messy Jean Grey/Madelyne Prior clone saga from the comics. Season two can't come quickly enough. — Eammon Jacobs

Netflix's drama series about characters in a small town in Northern California returned this week. This season follows Mel (Alexandra Breckenridge) and Jack's (Martin Henderson) love story as they finally get married.

Streaming on: Netflix

"Juror No. 2" stars Nicholas Hoult as Justin Kemp, a family man summoned as a juror on a trial for a high-profile murder that he may or may not have played a part in.

Eastwood's latest film, which is believed to potentially be the last one from the 94-year-old director, received positive reviews from critics but was reportedly released in less than 50 theaters. Now that
"Juror No. 2" is available to stream on Max, you can see it for yourself.

Streaming on: Max

After 17-year-old Gretchen (Hunter Schafer) moves from America to live with her dad and his new family at a resort in the German Alps, she becomes tortured by bloody, horrific visions.

Streaming on: Hulu

Just before his 75th birthday, billionaire Charles Abernathy (Bob Gunton) gathers his estranged kids at his sprawling estate out of fear that something or someone is going to kill him by midnight. If the children protect him and he survives the night, he'll dole out their inheritance to them.

Streaming on: Hulu

The Netflix movie tells the story of the first and only Women's Army Corps unit of color that served overseas in World War II. "The Six Triple Eight" is directed and written by Tyler Perry, starring Washington as real-life hero and commanding officer Major Charity Adams.

Streaming on: Netflix

In her stand-up special, the "Broad City" star shares unfiltered jokes about the awkwardness of her high school years and the joy of becoming a mom after welcoming her first child, a daughter, with her husband in 2021.

Streaming on: Hulu

Four years after her first Max comedy special, "Horndog," Rose Matafeo is back for more.

In her latest special, the "Starstruck" creator and star delivers musings about the differences in dating in her 20s versus her 30s and more — all with her signature self-deprecating humor.

Streaming on: Max

The "Everything Everywhere All at Once" actor plays Ruby, a woman who learns that her exes are all dying in weird, mysterious, and seemingly unrelated ways. To stop more of her former loves from meeting their end, her roommate AJ (Zosia Mamet) creates a "sex timeline" so Ruby can track down her previous conquests and warn them of their impending death.

At eight episodes of about 30 minutes each, "Laid" is a no-brainer for your next binge-watch.

Streaming on: Peacock

"Beast Games," which premiered on Thursday, involves 1,000 players competing in a variety of mental and physical challenges for the chance to win a $5 million cash prize — touted as the biggest single prize in TV and streaming history.

Streaming on: Prime Video

If you're looking for the next follow-up to "Agatha All Along" or a palate cleanse after watching "Kraven the Hunter," look no further than season three of "What If….?"

Like past installments, the final season of the critically acclaimed animated series explores alternate timelines in the MCU's vast multiverse. "What If….?" concludes with eight episodes released daily starting on Sunday.

Streaming on: Disney+

On the 35th anniversary of the first-ever "Simpsons" Christmas special, Fox's long-running animated series debuted a 45-minute episode exclusively on Disney+ this week.

In the latest Christmas special, a famed British mentalist named Derren Brown visits Springfield and accidentally hypnotizes Homer into believing he's Santa Claus.

Streaming on: Disney+

The special, hosted and executive produced by five-time Grammy nominee Josh Groban, features a combination of storytelling, comedy, and yes, plenty of music. Expect Groban and his guests, like Jennifer Hudson and James Bay, to perform classic holiday tunes, new songs, and original duets.

"Josh Groban & Friends Go Home for the Holidays" can be streamed live on Paramount+ with the Showtime plan as it airs on CBS on Friday, or streamed the following day on Paramount+.

Streaming on: Paramount+

Twenty-four years after its release, "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" still remains a quintessential holiday season watch and one of Jim Carrey's most memorable roles.

Streaming on: Peacock

"'Mufasa' opens with a brief, but effective tribute to the icon. As a result, his presence lingers over the whole project." — Rachel Labonte, Screen Rant

"That it opens by paying tribute to the late, great James Earl Jones, known to several generations as the booming voice of Mufasa, rather than simply closing with a dedication, is an early sign that reverence for what came before will be the name of the game." — David Fear, Rolling Stone

"Pierre and Harrison are strong actors committed to the material, and while it'd be nice for Disney to imagine a villain not played by Mikkelsen for once, he's yet to turn in an ineffective performance." — Clarisse Loughrey, The Independent

"Whilst Pierre is no James Earl Jones (but then again, who is?), at least he makes the character his own to feel invested in Mufasa's journey as a reluctant leader who becomes the king we know and love." — Kelechi Ehenulo, Total Film

"Jenkins at least addresses of the central issues of Jon Favreau's 'The Lion King,' namely, that lions aren't very expressive animals." — Witney Seibold, Slash Film

"As opposed to Favreau's cast in 'The Lion King,' the elephants, giraffes, and birds here don't look like pieces of melted plastic." — Robert Daniels, IGN

"The characters in 'Mufasa' look plausible, but more expressive. The camerawork takes full advantage of the animated medium, flying across the screen with energy and wonder instead of limiting itself to what might have been possible in real life." — William Bibbiani, TheWrap

"Impressive though it may be intellectually, the reality of watching these animals for two hours is a somewhat numbing and dull experience despite the best efforts of director Barry Jenkins." — Lindsey Bahr, The Associated Press

"Jenkins calls for far more nuance and expressivity in the virtual animals' facial performances, which helps us identify with their emotions, even as it pushes the characters toward the uncanny valley — especially when they speak or open their mouths to sing." — Peter Debruge, Variety

"There is just no way for the face of a photorealistic lion — 'live action,' in Disney's controversial parlance — to convey the pain of a brother's deep betrayal, or express a moving grief over a lost family." — Petrana Radulovic, Polygon

"The framing device feels like a mistake, serving mostly to delay and interrupt the main attraction, which is Mufasa's origin story." — Peter Debruge, Variety

"Though they add comedic relief to a surprisingly heavy story, their meta jokes and constant asides break up the flow of Rafiki's earnest storytelling in the present day." — Rachel Labonte, Screen Rant

"The story Rafiki tells Kiara is so thematically rich that the frequent shifts back to present day, usually involving some lighthearted Timon jokes, don't do the narrative momentum many favors." — Brian Truitt, USA Today

"Nothing in 'Mufasa' plays more like a desperate studio note than these comic relief characters, who inject self-aware jokes and gross-out humor in a shameless attempt to entertain immature audience members who can't focus on a well-told story without constant reassurance that they're being pandered to and the filmmakers haven't forgotten about 'Hakuna Matata.'" — William Bibbiani, TheWrap

"Even Lin-Manuel Miranda's new songs play like off-brand substitutes for each of Elton John's originals — and only one, the 'I Just Can't Wait to be King' stand-in, makes an impression on its own terms." — Robbie Collin, The Telegraph

"While the visuals during these sequences are solid, the songs themselves follow a trend in recent Disney musicals in the sense that all the songs are just...OK. None of the seven original songs in the film are flat-out terrible, but they're also not particularly memorable either." — Aidan Kelley, Collider

"None of the songs here are overtly terrible, but they all blur into an indistinguishable 'Lin-Manuel Miranda Presents: The Lion King!' concept album, with all Miranda's stylistic hallmarks. He sure has a signature style, but it's hard to reconcile that style into a movie that already has its own iconic soundtrack. The new songs feel forced and out of place." — Petrana Radulovic, Polygon

"The studio obligation for brand reassurance and nostalgia bait is constantly at odds with Jenkins' vision, especially when they're not emotionally earned." — Kelechi Ehenulo, Total Film

"It's a shame Jenkins wasn't able to personalize it more, but, as they say, that's just the nature of the beast." — Dan Jolin, Empire

"Jenkins' pivot to a big-budget, kid-friendly project for a major studio was always intriguing. But in hindsight, it's hard to imagine he ever really stood a chance at revolutionizing from within Disney's so-called 'live-action' money machine." — Alison Foreman, IndieWire

"The Barry Jenkins-directed project is mostly a site of strained encounters between a visionary helmer and his corporate shareholders." — Lovia Gyarkye, The Hollywood Reporter