Lord Ivar MountbattenDavid M. Benett/Getty Images for Dockers
Lord Ivar Mountbatten is gaining attention as a contestant on The Traitors — but what is his connection to the royal family?
Alan Cumming announced on the Today Show in June 2024 that Mountbatten would be joining season 3 of the competition series alongside reality TV veterans Boston Rob Mariano, Danielle Reyes, Tom Sandoval, Chrishelle Stause and more, among a total of 21 contestants. While Mountbatten hasn’t made a name for himself on TV, he has become well-known as an extended member — and the first openly gay member — of the royal family.
Ivar, who was born in March 1963, is the son of David Mountbatten, who is the 3rd Marquess of Milford Haven, and Janet Mercedes Bryce. Through his father, Ivar is the grandson of Prince George of Battenberg and the great-great-great-grandson of Queen Victoria. Ivar’s father was the cousin of Prince Philip who married Queen Elizabeth II in 1947, making Ivar the first cousin once removed of Philip, a third cousin once removed of Elizabeth and a second cousin of King Charles III.
Ivar has been candid about how he considered Philip to be a father figure to him after his dad died in 1970.
“In later years, I would sit with him and ask endless questions about my father. It was wonderful to have someone who could tell me everything about him,” he said to The Telegraph in April 2021. “Prince Philip was a wonderful listener; you could tell him anything as long as you were being honest and forthright. He was happy to listen to your thoughts. But if he had some advice he thought you ought to hear, he’d give it to you.”
As a member of the extended family, Ivar does not have any royal duties. He has previously worked as a geologist and businessman. Ivar is also the former director of the SCL Group, which was a strategic communication company. While Ivar is a member of the royal family, he understands why he is not involved in royal events as much as he once was a child.
“The family has got very large,” he told Tatler in 2019. “When we were younger we went to royal events all the time. But now that everyone has had children, quite rightly everything has slimmed down.”
While Ivar isn’t active with the royals, he does have a close relationship with some of them. He has maintained bonds with King Charles’ youngest brother Prince Edward and his wife Duchess Sophie. Ivar is the godfather to Edward and Sophie’s daughter Lady Louise Windsor.
Edward and Sophie are the godparents to two of Ivar’s children, daughters Ella and Alix, whom he shares with ex-wife Penny Mountbatten. (The exes, who split in 2011, also share daughter Luli.)
Ivar made history in 2016 when he became the first member of the royal family to openly be in a same-sex relationship with now-husband James Coyle. The couple tied the knot in 2018 and were the first British royals to have a same-sex wedding. While chatting with The Independent in 2023, Ivar shared that his family “was incredibly supportive” about his and Coyle’s relationship.
After 17 years, Hoda Kotb is officially bidding farewell to the Today show.
Kotb, 60, appeared on her final episode of the NBC morning show on Friday, January 10. The day started off on a tearful note as she cried after watching a video package of Savannah Guthrie, Al Roker, Craig Melvin and Carson Daly singing her praises. In return, she shared her own kind words about her colleagues.
“Carson, you’re like the secret sauce on the show, man. Without you, the show doesn’t hum,” Kotb gushed during the show’s second hour. “Al, you’re my first friend here, the first person I met. When I got sick, you were the first person who walked into the room and said I was gonna be OK.”
She continued: “Savannah, oh, my God. You’re my person, you’re my person. You know who shows up for everybody? This girl. … She’s in the room, she’s always in the room, and I love you. Craig, I’m so happy for you. You’e earned this, you own this, and come Monday at 7 o’clock a.m., I am gonna be dead asleep. But you’re gonna be fantastic. You’re gonna bring it home. Craig, you’re gonna be so good. You and Savannah are gonna be magic.”
In September 2024, Kotb announced she was departing the series. “I realized that it was time for me to turn the page at 60, and to try something new. This is the right time for me to move on,” she explained at the time, adding that her daughters, Haley, 7, and Hope, 5 — whom she adopted with ex-fiancé Joel Schiffman — contributed to her decision.
Kotb joined NBC News in April 1998, serving as a correspondent for the national network and Dateline before becoming the host of the fourth hour of the Today show in September 2007. Kathie Lee Gifford stepped in as her cohost from April 2008 to April 2019, before Jenna Bush Hager took over the role. After Matt Lauer’s sudden exit from the Today show following sexual harassment allegations, Kotb was named coanchor in January 2018 alongside Guthrie, 53.
Kotb elaborated on her exit in a letter shared on Today.com in September 2024.
Alliance for Women in Media Foundation/Getty Images for Alliance for Women in Media Foundation
“As I write this, my heart is all over the map,” she noted. “I know I’m making the right decision, but it’s a painful one. And you all are the reason why. They say two things can be right at the same time, and I’m feeling that so deeply right now. I love you and it’s time for me to leave the show.”
Kotb went on to detail why she ultimately chose to say goodbye.
“I’ve been weighing this decision for quite a while — am I truly ready?” she continued. “But, my sixtieth birthday celebration on the Plaza felt like a shift. Like a massive, joyful YES, you are! I saw it all so clearly: my broadcast career has been beyond meaningful, a new decade of my life lies ahead, and now my daughters and my mom need and deserve a bigger slice of my time pie. I will miss you all desperately, but I’m ready and excited.”
Kotb concluded by confirming that she would stay involved at NBC in some capacity. “Happily and gratefully, I plan to remain a part of the NBC family, the longest work relationship I’ve been lucky enough to hold close to my heart,” she gushed. “I’ll be around. How could I not? Family is family and you all will always be a part of mine.”
Scroll down to see the biggest moments from Kotb’s final Today episode celebration:
A Purple Plaza
For her final time greeting fans on the Today Plaza, Guthrie walked Kotb through a spirit tunnel comprised of Today show workers sporting purple beanies and waving purple pom poms. Joking that the day was “Hoda’s Eras Tour,” Guthrie revealed that their Today colleagues and fans were sporting Kotb-themed friendship bracelets. Third hour cohost Dylan Dreyer even traveled back to New York City after covering the Los Angles wildfires to be with Kotb on her big day.
Muppets Sing-Along
Today
Kermit the Frog joined Kotb, Haley, Hope and the Today hosts in the studio to sing the famous track “Rainbow Connection,” which Kotb plays for her kids every night and she listened to on her way to work that morning.“
Hoda, you truly do make every day as beautiful as a rainbow,” Kermit said as the song began, during which the group chimed in to sing along.
“I love you, I love that song, I love everything about it,” Kotb stated before pointing out more of her family members in the studio. “Mom, I love you,” she said into the camera.”
Several of Kotb’s friends and family members were in the audience of her final live Hoda & Jenna episode. Her mom, Sameha, was unable to attend, but congratulated her daughter in a pre-recorded video message.
“When I turn the TV on and I see Hodie, I see her smile. I love that. And just to listen to what she has to say,” Sameha gushed. “I check to see what is she wearing. Is she wearing the dress that I sent her or something else? And how’s her hair?”
Sameha went on to recall how Kotb knew she wanted to be on TV after working on a radio show during her time at Virginia Tech. She eventually landed her gig at Dateline before making her Today debut in 2007.
“She FaceTimes me, by the way, every morning. But I see the girls and Hodie, and I said to her one day, ‘You don’t have to do that every day.’ [She said], ‘Yes, we do!’ That’s the way she is,” Sameha added. “Hodie, I’m proud of you and I’m sure you’re going to be doing great work later on. And I love you so much.”
A tearful Kotb gave her mom’s video message a standing ovation.
Hoda’s Look-Alike
Today
While Bush Hager announced that winners of a Kotb look-alike contest would be coming out on the show, it was actually a set-up to bring out their first celebrity guest of the episode, Gayle King. Poking fun at the pair’s physical resemblance, King gifted Kotb a T-shirt featuring her face on the front and King’s on the back, which read, “Hoda. Not Hoda.”
“Just today coming into the building, I swear to God, somebody said, ‘Hey, can I take your picture?’ And he took it and I said, ‘Who do you think I am?’ And he said, ‘You’re Hoda!’ And I said, ‘No, no I’m not,’” King joked, while Kotb noted she also gets frequently mistaken with her fellow TV host.
An NBC Send-Off
Today
Jimmy Fallonpopped by the congratulate Kotb on the end of her Today, run, gifting her a framed piece of the NBC logo carpet from the elevators in 30 Rock. “I entitled it ‘Onward and Upward’ ‘cause you’re getting on the elevator and going up, right?” he joked. “But then I signed it, and then no one can read my writing. My handwriting’s so bad so it looks like it says ‘Osmond and Uptown.’”
Kotb went on to praise Fallon for being a great guest over the years, revealing that her daughters call him “Uncle Jimmy.” Fallon, for his part, thanked Haley and Hope for the Christmas gift they gave him. “Haley and Hope, you are the cutest girls ever, and funny, as well,” he told the girls. “And I see you every Thanksgiving Day Parade and you’re always so nice and happy and always coming up to me.
Kathie Lee Returns
Today
After stating in a video message that she couldn’t make it to Kotb’s live final episode, Gifford surprised her former Today cohost in the studio.
“The one thing I had in common with you and with Regis [Philbin] — two very, very different people — I looked forward every single day to being with you both,” she gushed. “And I did and I said, ‘Today, I’m gonna be with Hoda. It’s gonna be fun. It’s gonna be fun,’ because you, I’ve always said, she’s sunshine in a bottle.”
In true Kathie Lee & Hoda fashion, the group toasted to Kotb’s next chapter with large glasses of wine. “May you walk into the most joyful, prosperous, purposeful time in your life with those precious daughters that I watched come into your life. What a blessing that was. I’ll never forget it,” Gifford said while giving cheers. “And once those babies came, I knew it was time. ‘She ain’t gonna be here long.’ So, bless you, my dear friend.”
A Tribute to the Fans
Today
In a pre-recorded package, Kotb read a “love letter” she wrote to thank the show’s fans for their support over the years. “16 years ago, I sat next to Kathie Lee and she changed my life. She chose me,” she read. “And truth be told, I was scared. I’d never done anything like this before. … I ripped off that news corset, we poured ourselves a glass of wine, and so it began.”
She recalled how a “new era started” when she began cohosting the fourth hour with Bush Hager. “Six unforgettable years, uncontrollable laughter and pure friendship,” she gushed. “I can hardly even say her name without laughing out loud, but that is not the part I fell in love with. I fell in love with her tears, her vulnerable, lovable self.”
Kotb noted that turning 60 on the show was the “peak” of her time on the show and said “having a front row seat” to fans’ personal journeys has “shaped who I am.”
She concluded: “I’ve become who I am on this hour of this show, and you were there with me every step of the way. So, as I sit here today in my final moments on this final day in this chapter of my career, I want to say thank you from the bottom of my very full heart for the ride of a lifetime. I love you.”
Hoda’s Original Song
One of Kotb’s favorite country artists, Walker Hayes, surprised Kotb with a performance of his song “Wednesdays.” The moment was a particularly meaningful one for Kotb, as she cowrote the track with him. In the song, Hayes sings how while some days come with ups and downs, “most days are just Wednesdays” with mundane day-to-day activities with friends and family.
“I feel like that’s what I love the most about our show. They’ve just been Wednesdays. Every day has been a good Wednesday,” Kotb said through tears after the performance. Bush Hager responded by telling her cohost, “It’s been a pleasure of a lifetime to be next to you.”
With Love, From Jenna
Today
While the Kotb’s final episode was filled with tributes from stars and loved ones, Bush Hager penned her own farewell message to her longtime friend and cohost.
“Five years, more than 1,500 shows, 90,000 minutes, 9,000 commercial breaks filled with Shaboozey, Beyoncé [and] constant laughter and soul-affirming conversations,” she recalled. “From Vegas to New Orleans three times, from Austin to Quebec to our home, this home, Studio 1A, which will always be ours, mine and yours. From a global pandemic to two maternity leaves, five children.”
In addition to praising Kotb for bringing “hope” to others, Bush Hager also credited her teaching her to “find the joy in the small.” She went on to recall some of their biggest TV moments, from trying out social media hacks to writing their own Christmas song to participating in a Polar Plunge.
Now, Bush Hager said Kotb is teaching her and fans “how to say goodbye with grace,” adding, “Thank you, Hoda, for everything you have taught me, everything you’ve given me, all the hugs, all the heart, all the laughs, all the love. I will miss you, my friend, but I love you and I’m so proud. Love always and forever, Jenna.”
Following the clip’s conclusion, Bush Hager welcomed out the rest of their Today crew — including Melvin, Guthrie, Dreyer, Daly, Roker and Willie Geist — to share hugs and kisses.
Final Goodbye
Today
For her final send-off, Kotb was joined in front of the camera by Bush Hager and dozens of Today show cast and crew members. In particular, she highlighted the show’s executive producer, Talia Parkinson-Jones. “You’ve loved me and Jenna since the very beginning, the day you started, and I just want to say thank you,” Kotb said before thanking the whole crew.
Haley and Hope stood by their mother’s side as Bush Hager gave her last goodbye. “You are loved. I can’t imagine this place without you, but I don’t have to ‘cause we already have a date on your calendar. Thank you all for believing in us, and Hoda, I love you,” she stated, but not before Kotb gave a shout-out to Jenna & Friends’ first episode on Monday, January 13.
The episode ended with a clip of Kotb driving away from 30 Rock with her kids in her minivan, which had a “Just Repotted” sign strapped on the back.
Keleigh Teller is mourning the loss of her wedding dress after the home she shared with husband Miles Teller was burnt down amid the Los Angeles wildfires.
“To everyone reaching out I can’t thank you enough, your kind hearts have meant the world, I’ll never forget them,” Keleigh, 32, captioned an Instagram post in the early hours of Friday, January 10. “Community has come out stronger than I could imagine, pacific palisades I love you beyond measure you are a little slice of heaven, we will come back stronger than ever.”
Keleigh begged people living in the Los Angeles area to “get out if you can” before detailing one valuable thing she lost in the devastation.
“I wish I grabbed my wedding dress,” she wrote. “Wish I did a lot different but it doesn’t matter, stay safe, get out. There are no words. THANK YOU to the first responders fighting.”
Miles and Keleigh wed in September 2019, she wore a Monique Lhuillier dress.
Along with her meaningful words, Keleigh shared a photo of her and Miles’ home taken as they were “driving out” of the area. A second image showed the charred remnants of their house.
Courtesy of Keleigh Teller/Instagram
The couple’s famous friends shared words of support in the Instagram post’s comments section.
“Love you guys always,” Chace Crawford wrote. Nina Dobrev commented with a series of broken heart emojis.
Kristin Juszczyk, wife of San Francisco 49ers player Kyle Juszczyk, shared a sweet message as well.
“Sending so much love,” she commented. “So profoundly sorry.”
Taylor Hill/FilmMagic
Aaron Paul’s wife, Lauren Paul, wrote that she has “been thinking about you two so much” presumably amid the ongoing wildfires.
Chad Lowe’s wife, Kim Lowe, shared an update on their home while also commenting on Keleigh’s post.
“@ichadlowe and I live down the street from you. or, lived I guess,” she wrote. “It’s all just too much. we loved your xmas decor (the dog!!). this is the most devastating thing. we wish you and everyone in our community peace and hope and yeah. just. in shock.”
Gusts of wind from Santa Ana started fast-burning brush fires to begin on Tuesday, January 7. The Guardian has since reported that an estimated 9,000 homes (and counting) have been damaged or completely destroyed as the fires continue to rage on around various parts of Los Angeles including the Pacific Palisades area, Malibu, Santa Monica and the Hollywood Hills. It’s been widely reported that at least 10 people have died.
Aside from Miles and Keleigh, celebrities like Milo Ventimiglia and Paris Hilton have spoken out following the destruction of their homes.
Hey there, working queens! If you’re struggling to get back into the swing of things after a long holiday break filled with travel, family and fun, same. It’s always tough to readjust, especially since it’s freezing cold and somewhat dreary outside. It’s normal to feel a little slow at this time of year though, so don’t be too hard on yourself!
That said, an easy way to get yourself fired up for a fresh year at the office is by adding a new accessory to your “workdrobe”. And no, I’m not talking about a new blouse or even a new pair of shoes. I’m talking about something you’ll wear every day — whether it’s winter, spring, summer or fall — and that serves a purpose (aside from making you the most glamorous gal in the office). If you guessed a new work bag, you guessed correctly!
I found just the thing, but this bag is more than just a work bag. It’s an ultra-luxe tote that’s bound to elevate any ensemble. Lightweight and compact, you’d never know this tote can fit my 15.6-inch laptop, iPad, phone, keys, deodorant, Airpods, multiple notebooks and so much more. The padded laptop compartment keeps my most valuable technology safe from the inevitable damage that comes with transit while the compartments keep everything organized.
This bag has three divided compartments, three slip pockets, a front compartment, a zipper pocket and a main back compartment. In other words, there’s plenty of room! But the space is just the beginning of what I love about this tote. It has a durable vegan leather exterior that seriously looks real, adding a touch (and a half) of sophistication to any outfit. The straps are adjustable, too, so you can wear this bag as a tote or shoulder bag or carry it as a large handbag. Oh, and the hardware is extra shiny!
I adore the look of this work tote with dress pants, a solid-colored blouse, a blazer and loafers, but you can wear it with anything you’d wear to work — especially if you opt for the black bag. There are six other colors to choose from, ranging from solid colors to color block styles, but I love the versatility of the black bag. That said, I may grab the lilac variety for spring!
And it’s not just me who swears by this bag. One reviewer calls it a “workhorse of a bag” while another says it will make you “the office envy”. Just read the reviews . . . people are obsessed. Prepare to be the ultimate trendsetter!
Get the Ecosusi Laptop Bag for $50 (originally $53) on Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication, January 10, 2024, but are subject to change.
Not what you’re looking for? Shop other laptop bags on Amazon and don’t forget to shop Amazon’s Daily Deals here!
After 16 years of marriage, the couple recently decided to separate and are preparing to file for divorce, TMZ reported on Wednesday, January 8.
The duo’s love story began when they met on the set of The Fantastic Four in 2004, where Alba, 43, was the lead actress and Warren, 46, was a production assistant. They tied the knot four years later.
While the couple — who share Honor, 16, Haven, 13, and Hayes, 7 — have not publicly commented on their relationship status, both Alba and Warren have talked openly about the highs and lows of marriage.
While attending a pre-Golden Globes party at the Chateau Marmont in West Hollywood on Saturday, January 4, Alba was photographed without wearing her wedding ring.
Just one month earlier, the actress was spotted running errands and picking up beverages at Kreation in Los Angeles without a ring on that finger.
Meanwhile, Warren raised eyebrows when he posed for a family photo on Christmas without his ring.
Jessica Alba’s New Year’s Eve Post
Before saying goodbye to 2024, Alba posted a collage of images reflecting on the past 12 months of her life. While she was able to post memories from vacations, girls’ night outs and various projects, the Honest Company founder failed to post any photos of Warren.
“Here’s to a colorful past year that was filled with connection, growth, adventures, laughter, peace, sisterhood, transformation, rebirth, joy and so much love ,” she wrote via Instagram on December 31. “Sending hugs to everyone going through it- cheers to 2025 and even more love to come! Let’s goooo!”
In the middle of celebrating 10 years of his clothing brand Pair of Thieves, Warren reflected on his marriage to Alba in an exclusive interview with Us Weekly.
While reflecting on their bond, Warren admitted that it took “hard work” to keep their union strong.
“I think, ultimately, the friendship and support and just knowing that your partner has your back means everything to us,” he told Us in July 2024. “I think that would be the secret, is just having each other’s back. It’s hard work, but we roll up our sleeves and we do it. It’s wild. It’s the longest relationship I could have ever imagined.”
Back in April 2024, Alba appeared on an episode of Katherine Schwarzenegger Pratt’s “BDA Baby” podcast. When asked how she was able to find balance amid her heavy responsibilities — and ensure “your husband feels tended to” — Alba admitted it was a process.
“You know, I think that [Cash] probably gets the short end of the stick,” she said. “It’s hard. It’s impossible.”
She advised couples “to communicate when you’re unhappy and nipping it right away” before it becomes a bigger issue.
“We have, obviously, the friendship, the comfort of, like, ‘You’re not going anywhere,’” Alba added. “And so sometimes you don’t treat those people the best, right? You don’t consider their feelings in the way that you would consider other people’s feelings. So that is something that I think is a constant — it’s a constant one to work on.”
Jessica Alba Compared Cash Warren Marriage to Being ‘Roommates’
Cash Warren and Jessica AlbaJames Devaney/WireImage
While chatting with Schwarzenneger Pratt, 35, Alba continued to give an honest perspective on marriage life.
“I would say it’s all rosy for two-and-a-half years,” she shared. “But then after that, you become roommates. You’re just going through the motions, the responsibilities. It’s a lot of, like, checking the boxes.”
During an August 2023 appearance on Jana Kramer’s “Whine Down” podcast, Warren said he briefly broke up with Alba four years into the relationship.
“When we first started dating, I was really jealous of other guys and the attention that she was getting from other guys, and it just wasn’t making me feel good,” Warren said. “I was always a pretty confident person in my own, kind of, walking my own path and really happy there. And next thing you know, I’m looking up and just feeling jealous all the time.”
After his feelings led to a breakup with Alba, Warren said he vowed to “channel [my jealousy] in a different way, into a more productive way.”
Mandy Mooreclarified why she shared a GoFundMe campaign in support of her brother-in-law’s family following wildfire devastation.
“Yesterday, my brother-in-law and sister-in-law Griff and Kit [Goldsmith] lost their home and everything they own in the Eaton Fire,” Moore, 40, wrote via Instagram on Thursday, January 9. “With their first baby on the way in a matter of weeks, they need our support now more than ever.”
She added, “Please consider donating and sharing to help them rebuild.”
Moore, who is married to Griff’s brother Taylor Goldsmith, then included a link to the fundraising page launched by friend Matthew Koma.
“[For] people questioning whether we’re helping out our own family or attributing some arbitrary amount of money Google says someone has is NOT helpful or empathetic,” Moore continued in her social media message. “Of course we are. Our buddy Matt started this GoFundMe and I’m sharing because people have asked how they can help them.”
The This Is Us alum further reminded social media critics that “no one is forcing you to do anything” before issuing another reminder.
Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images for for THE GREAT. x Red Wing Heritage Collaboration
Moore and Taylor’s home — where they raise their three children — had also been destroyed in the Pacific Palisades wildfire earlier this week. After visiting the remains earlier on Thursday, Moore detailed in another Instagram post that they learned the “main part” of the residence was still standing but “not livable.” Taylor and Griff’s studio, where they record music for their band Dawes, was also destroyed along with their instruments and equipment.
“Griff is a touring musician and also lost his entire arsenal of drums/percussion he uses to make a living,” Moore explained in her upload. “It’s all so much.”
Griff and Kit are also due to welcome their first baby any day, prompting Winnetka Bowling League frontman Koma, 37, to launch the GoFundMe page.
“They’re expecting their first child in a few weeks and without a home or the most basic necessities, the days ahead feel unimaginable,” Koma, who is married to Hilary Duff, wrote via his Instagram. “Griff is one of my best friends in the world & a fellow musician who has spent 20+ years as a touring drummer in his band Dawes – all of his drums, studio gear … stuff he’s spent his whole life collecting to make a living was also lost in the fire.”
As of publication, the campaign has already raised over $158,000, from the likes of Koma, Taylor, Michelle Branch, Zachary Levi and more.
If you’re an overpacker like Us, you likely understand the struggle of having your suitcase weighed down by all of your makeup products — you can’t travel without them! That’s why we’re starting the new year by brainstorming helpful solutions, like using a nearly weightless, stackable makeup trio that fits into the tiniest parts of our travel bags. Subtl Beauty is our new go-to for trips (and beyond), creating convenient, customizable makeup “stacks” that are light and easy to carry.
While Subtl Beauty has multiple products to help streamline your makeup routine, this easy, stackable system is the ultimate must-have. To build your own stack, you start by choosing a mirror lid, a base and a mini brush. Each base (you can select concealer, pressed powder or highlighter) is highly pigmented and comes in a variety of shades, ensuring there’s a match for all skin tones. You can also shop for lip and cheek combinations. Each piece is assembled to create one stackable compartment, which is a breeze to toss in your everyday bag or pack before taking a trip.
Should you need some building inspiration, there are videos on the site showing different Subtl Beauty makeup stacks, which also reveal how easily each part can twist on and off. No struggling to access your products here! If those cool clips weren’t enough, nearly all the reviews on the stacks are positive, with customers praising both the system and the makeup itself.
One reviewer called it their “go-to everyday solution.” They added: “I was looking for a simple makeup routine for traveling when I discovered Subtl, but it has quickly become my go-to everyday solution for looking put together in no time. It’s a you-but-better line of makeup, all in a stackable system that fits in the palm of your hand.”
“I was always incredibly overwhelmed by makeup options and how to use it,” another person shared. “Subtl was the first brand that provided me with a quiz so I could create the perfect Stack for me. Not only did it make choosing my makeup such an easy process, it also came with information on where each product went, which was amazing for someone who was never taught makeup.”
Someone even labeled it the “best invention ever” and said they loved “having my stack to do all things makeup!”
Whether you’re always on the go or have a big vacation booked, you won’t regret trying Subtl Beauty’s system for yourself. A roomier (and probably cheaper) travel bag awaits!
Baylen Out Loud star Baylen Dupree has found her match in boyfriend Colin Dooley.
“He’s, like, my backbone,” Baylen, 22, exclusively told Us Weekly on Thursday, January 9, ahead of the premiere of her eponymous TLC docuseries. “Everything that I do, just being around him helps. He understands me somewhat better than I understand myself a little bit, which is kind of the same way for him. I understand him better [than] he knows himself.”
Baylen is battling Tourette syndrome, which is the focus of her Baylen Out Loud series. On the show, she also chronicles her life with Colin. (They have been together since 2022.)
“He goes into Target with me. He comes with me into stores because I’m scared to be alone,” she joked. “My left- and right-hand man!”
Not only has Baylen and Colin’s relationship continued to go the distance, but she is also ready to take the next step.
“[Babies are] still on the brain. Well, not every day, but I want babies before 25,” Baylen said on Thursday, jokingly teasing that “season 2” would feature a potential pregnancy.
While Baylen is not expecting just yet, she is learning to establish her independence and continue managing her Tourette diagnosis.
Courtesy of Baylen Dupree/Instagram
“I would say that establishing my independence is definitely in each episode [of Baylen Out Loud],” Baylen told Us. “There’s a milestone or some type of achievement or some type of something that I’m learning or trying to grow from in each episode and just kind of trying to figure out life and just figure out myself and just figure out how I’m going to do certain things is definitely impactful.”
She continued, “Hopefully someone else can look at it and be like, ‘I can be independent too. I can do this,’ regardless of if they have Tourette or they’re neurodivergent or not, they can just look at it and be like, ‘You know what? I need to stop telling myself no because you’re the only person that’s telling yourself.’”
Baylen is also hopeful that Baylen Out Loud will inform more viewers about Tourette syndrome.
“I am hoping that people take away a lot and a lot of information from Tourette and a lot of information about tick disorders and everything like that,” she said. “In general, I just want to impact and inspire other people regardless of if it’s the next generation or past generations that may not have too much knowledge on Tourette. Just trying to inspire people to be themselves and just no matter what they’re going through, just keep going through it because in order to grow you have to be uncomfortable.”
Baylen Out Loud premieres on TLC Monday, January 13 at 9 p.m. ET.
Many of you may know Jenna Lyons from The Real Housewives of New York City, but she’s been an icon for much longer. The fashion designer has been turning heads for decades, and lately, it’s due to her flawless skin. In a recent Instagram Reel, the 56-year-old revealed her skincare secrets — and we’re adding them to cart immediately!
Lyons shares in the Instagram Reel how she first discovered Shiseido skincare 20 years ago on her first trip to Japan. Calling it one of her all-time favorite skincare brands, the former J.Crew executive applied the brand’s hero anti-aging line, Future Solution LX.
Starting with the night face cream, Lyons says in the Instagram Reel, “It’s a rich and hydrating texture that plumps your skin and gives you a radiant glow.” Continuing her skincare regimen, Lyons applies the Shiseido Eye and Lip Contour Regenerating Cream, which she says helps reduce the look of dark circles, crow’s feet and fine lines around the mouth.
We found the luxe products at Nordstrom, but even better each one is included in a limited-edition set. Meaning, you can pay the regular price for the single product and get extra skincare for free! Now that’s our favorite kind of girl math. Scroll on to shop Lyons’ radiant skin essentials!
Score Lyons’ favorite eye cream, the Future Solution LX Eye and Lip Contour Regenerating Cream, in this posh set. The eye cream usually runs $165, which is the same cost of this set — except you also get the the incredible Extra Rich Cleansing Foam and Concentrated Brightening Softener. What a value!
The eye cream targets wrinkles and sagging skin, and only the tiniest bit is needed to see results (thus, making it last forever!). One fan says, “Great eye cream, keeps the eye area dewy for hours and helps keep lip area hydrated.” BRB we’re adding this to our Nordstrom cart immediately!
This set contains a full- and travel-friendly size of the Future Solution LX Total Regenerating Cream, as well as the Future Solution LX Concentrated Brightening Softener — all for the price of the night cream alone. Packed with innovative anti-aging ingredients, antioxidants and vitamins, these products are the ultimate duo for leaving skin plump and smooth.
Another shopper raves, “Immediate skin changing. Age 46 and just a few days into using this line. I’ve never experienced the immediate change I have with other expensive products. Totally worth it!! I’m sold.” Score this incredible value set at Nordstrom before it’s gone!
Wheel of Fortune contestant Rhea Mathew got the shock of a lifetime when her boyfriend proposed during a taping of the show — thanks to the help of hosts Ryan Seacrest and Vanna White.
“We’re celebrating milestones in honor of our 50th anniversary and actually had one happen earlier in the week right here on the set,” Seacrest, 50, said in a video shared on the Wheel of Fortune YouTube channel on Thursday, January 9. The clip was titled, “WE HAD A PROPOSAL ON SET!”
Mathew first appeared on the show in October 2023, and her boyfriend (now fiancé), Robin, reached out for help with his proposal. White, 67, explained that the show’s cast and crew “created a bit of a ruse” and made the former contestant think she was coming back to celebrate the show’s 50th anniversary.
When prompted, Mathew solved a Wheel of Fortune puzzle reading: “Will you marry me?”
She was smiling at the correct answer when Robin appeared from backstage and got down on one knee. Suddenly Mathew’s mouth dropped as she realized what was happening. Of course, she said yes.
“I think she was really surprised,” Seacrest said when responding to the romantic moment. “Very sweet. I love that we can do that on this show.”
White also reacted to the “heart-warming” moment. “You never know what’s going to happen around here,” she added.
Maggie Sajak (Wheel of Fortune social correspondent and daughter of former host Pat Sajak) posted the proposal on her own social media account, as well.
Wheel Of Fortune/YouTube
“A proposal on set?! 2025 is off to a magical start!” she wrote, sharing some behind-the-scenes footage of the engagement. Text overlaid on the video offered followers more details as well.
“Rhea think [sic] she’s here for puzzle redemption, but little does she know … she’s here to get engaged,” the text read. Maggie, 30, spoke with Mathew before the proposal about her return to the show — and the contestant had no idea what was about to happen.
“OK, it doesn’t seem like she has any idea,” Maggie said. “This is so exciting.”
Wheel Of Fortune/YouTube
After the moment was over, Maggie congratulated the couple before asking if Mathew had “any idea” the engagement was coming.
Maggie interviewed Mathew again after the proposal, and the newly engaged contestant declared that she brought “my fiancé” to watch the Wheel of Fortune taping.
“The most elaborate proposal I could have ever — I cannot even imagine,” Mathew gushed. “I’m still in shock.”
Don’t call it a comeback, but bleached eyebrows have been making a major return among a new generation of It girls.
After stars includingKim Kardashian, Lizzo, Julia Fox and more experimented with peroxide-blonde brows 2022 — only to return to their natural color shortly thereafter — more celebs have revived the less-is-more look as of late.
TakeJoey King, for example, who switched up her signature brown arches for nearly invisible blonde strands in January 2025. She debuted the futuristic look via Instagram, where BFFs including Sabrina Carpenter and Noah Cyrus (who also sports bleached brows) praised her new beauty move.
“Rude to look this good without eyebrows,” Carpenter wrote, as Cyrus added, “THIS IS YOUR LOOK.”
Besides King, Alix Earlebriefly rocked bleached brows in May 2024 for an 11-hour photoshoot for the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit digital issue. She teased the look via TikTok before revealing she would star as the first-ever digital cover model for SI Swimsuit.
To see all these celebs and more embrace the bleached eyebrows trend, keep scrolling:
The bleached brow trend has made its way to the singer! Jackson debuted her new look while attending an Alexander McQueen fashion show in October 2022.
New 'do, who dis? The "Juice" singer debuted bleached brows and blonde pixie cut via TikTok in June 2021, drawing comparisons to everyone from Kris Jenner to Mary J. Blige.
There’s nothing like noticing a style trend among A-listers and finding ways to incorporate it into your wardrobe. Recently, we’ve seen that our go-to style influences have been pairing stylish wide-leg jeans with chic pointed-toe heels. From Selena Gomez‘s rich-mom-approved attempt to Jennifer Lopez‘s more laidback take, it’s clear that this outfit combo is one worth trying.
Can’t figure out how to tackle the trend? We’ve rounded up an assortment of wide-leg trousers and pointed-toe heels that effortlessly nail the look. From cozy pants to luxe-looking footwear, check out our top picks ahead!
1. Our Absolute Favorite: These wide-leg Palazzo pants are so trendy and stylish. They have an elastic waistband with belt loops for comfort and support. It features front pleats, back darks and side slant pockets for a sophisticated touch!
2. Denim Duty: Looking for a more casual style? These flare-leg jeans come in a slew of shades, ranging from classic medium wash to magenta pink and burnt orange!
3. Dressy Cargo: These roomy trousers have an edgy flair, courtesy of the cargo-style pockets!
4. Edgy Accents: These high-waist jeans have stretchy fabric for a comfortable fit and a frayed hemline for an edgy touch!
5. Boss Babe: Prepare to steal the show in these eye-catching trousers. They have a decorative belt detail that instantly elevates any look!
6. Cropped Cutie: If you prefer shorter, cropped pants with wide-leg accents, you’ll want to snag these dark denim trousers ASAP!
7. Slingback Kitten: These patent leather slingbacks are perfect for shoppers who prefer kitten heels!
8. Twisted Strap: These pointed-toe pumps have a twisted sling-back heel for a chic flair!
9. Fancy Pants: These suede shoes have a classic pointed-toe silhouette and a cushioned footbed for a comfy fit!
10. Red-Hot: Not a fan of heels? No worries! These bold red flats are a stylish alternative!
11. Sleek Straps: These burgundy kitten heels have tons of sleek straps that we absolutely adore!
12. Designer Lookalike: Do you like the trendy two-toned pointed-toe heel trend? Great news! You can channel the look of the viral Saint Laurent Jeanne Pumps with these bold stilettos!
13. Statement-Making Heel: Ready to turn heads? These shiny black flats have a unique square heel detail that will earn endless compliments!
14. Wild One: These sassy kitten heels have a sheer animal print design that adds a head-turning touch!
Get ready to feel the beat with Lifetime’s upcoming Lisa Lisa biopic.
Can You Feel the Beat: The Lisa Lisa Story, which premieres on the network Saturday, February 1, tells the story of Lisa Velez, a.k.a Lisa Lisa, the 15-year-old Puerto Rican singer turned global phenomenon. Executive produced by Velez herself, the film stars Jearnest Corchado in the titular role alongside Angie Martinez and Bre-Z.
In Us Weekly’s exclusive first look at the film’s trailer, fans are given a glimpse into the true story of Lisa Lisa’s journey to becoming the first Latina artist to hit multiple music Billboard charts while battling sexism, racism and a breast cancer diagnosis.
“When I was a kid, I would dream I was on a stage, singing,” Lisa says in the teaser, later telling her mom: “One day, I’ll be so rich, Mami.”
While the initial images feature Lisa Lisa on stage, strutting down sidewalks and getting her first big break with her 1985 hit “Can You Feel the Beat,” things quickly take a turn when Lisa realizes there’s a darker side to the industry than she anticipated.
“The music business, it’s not going to be what you think it is. It’s going to try and take a piece of you,” Bre-Z, who portrays Lisa’s best friend Toni Ménage, tells her. “You can’t let them.”
Quick flashes show Lisa being told she’ll have to start “treatment right away” for her breast cancer — “I can’t stop touring,” she tearfully replies — getting physically assaulted and being threatened by her team.
“You cannot make it without us,” her manager warns, to which Lisa Lisa replies, “Watch me.”
Lifetime
In May 2024, Velez, now 57, shared that she was diagnosed with breast cancer at the height of career but decided to keep it a secret — even from even her own mother — in order to keep working.
“It was hard to talk about back then,” Velez explained on an episode of the Tamron Hall Show. “It was hard, there was no one to speak on it. The guys used to ask me, ‘Are you gaining weight? Are you pregnant?’ I was like, ‘No, I’m going through chemo.’ No one knew, I had to hide it basically, my mom didn’t even know.”
Velez said she noticed bruises on her chest one day and knew she had to get checked out. “So on a stop during a nine-month tour, I went and got checked and my oncologist said, ‘You have ductal carcinoma,’” she said.
Ultimately, Velez — who is now in remission — chose to continue on with her career, balancing her professional obligations and chemotherapy.
“It was difficult,” she said. “It was really, really hard. I didn’t know what to do, who to speak to. My doctor was like, ‘You should not be on tour,’ and I said, ‘I have to work because I have bills to pay.’”
Can You Feel the Beat: The Lisa Lisa Story premieres on Lifetime Saturday, February 1, at 8 p.m. ET.
With all of the sponsored styles and Amazon best-sellers . . . sometimes the hidden gems on the retailer get completely lost in the sauce. This is a real shame because I was able to find hundreds of pieces with that rich mom-inspired Zara style on the retailer, they just take a little bit longer to find! Well, as a shopping writer, I’m putting my job to your benefit by rounding up the very best Zara-style pieces on Amazon below — and they start at just $14.
Judging by the looks of Zara’s fashion pieces, it looks like their entire brand is based around the rich mom aesthetic . . . so it wasn’t hard to find pieces that mixed the two aesthetics! Zara is one of those places that rich moms will stop at to pick up trendier pieces for less like this vintage-inspired shoulder bag and sometimes basics too like this off-the-shoulder sweater. Now you can shop the rich mom fashion taste, all with the convenience of Amazon, with our fashion picks below!
17 Hidden Zara-Style Pieces on Amazon to Give Your Closet Rich Mom Style
1. Silky Slip: One thing you can almost never go into a Zara without finding is a sleek slip skirt like this style that even has a cute tie-front detail!
2. Off-Shoulder-Chic: We love the way this off-the-shoulder sweater can elevate both slacks for the office and jeans for evening on the town!
3. Luxe Leather: Have an edgy-chic moment in this luxe leather jacket from Levi’s that’s now 20% off!
4. Designer-Inspired: A secret favorite of Amazon shoppers this vintage-inspired shoulder bag has been bought over 2,000 times within the last month!
5. Hampton’s-Esque: Channeling the Hampton’s rich mom look is this knit two-piece set that gives that cozy, coastal vibe!
6. Timeless Turtleneck: Looking like it should be way more expensive than it is, this timeless turtleneck sweater features a high quality knit fabric, ribbed hems and a relaxed fit design!
7. Cozy Clogs: These double belt buckle clogs put a fashionable spin on the popular comfy shoe style!
8. Shearling Perfection: Mixing elegant style with a cozy design, this shearling jacket has a cozy faux fur fabric and chic gold buttons!
9. You’re Cute Jeans: A number one new release on Amazon, shoppers are really excited about these wide leg jeans we could easily see as a Zara find too!
10. Sophisticated Stripes: Nothing says rich mom quite like a striped cardigan sweater like this one that can be worn into the warmer months as well!
11. Classy Coat: A perfect transitional layer, this lightweight coatigan can be worn with layers in the winter and with t-shirts in the spring!
12. Sleek Slacks: Way more luxe than their price point, these tailored slacks would undoubtedly be worn by rich moms for things like meetings and brunches!
13. Blazer Beauty: Step up your blazer collection with this tweed-style blazer that oozes rich mom energy!
14. Pretty Puff Sleeve: Give your sweater collection a puff sleeve pop with this style that comes in various colors to choose from like beige and pastel pink!
15. Very Cute Vest: Bring a dash of sophistication to your outfits with this cable knit sweater vest that can be worn over long sleeves and button ups!
16. Best of Boots: Of course, you can always find a good pair of boots at Zara too, and this leather knee-high style channels the rich mom vibes!
17. Make a Statement: With over 2,000 bought in the last month, we’re sure shoppers are depending on these mixed metal earrings to make a statement in their outfits!
Head coach James Franklin of the Penn State Nittany Lions shakes hands with head coach Marcus Freeman of the Notre Dame.Carmen Mandato/Getty Images
Notre Dame’s Marcus Freeman was coaching in the Orange Bowl with a little extra fire in his belly following comments made at his expense by Penn State coach James Franklin.
At a Wednesday, January 8 press conference ahead of Notre Dame’s 27-24 victory over Penn State on Thursday, January 9, Franklin, 52, ribbed Freeman — who turned 39 on Friday, January 10, just hours after the biggest win of his career — about his age and said, “I mean, I look at the hairline on this guy. Envious of his hairline in a lot of ways.”
Freeman appeared to take the jokes in stride at the press conference, but after his team’s victory on Thursday night, Freeman’s players revealed it was quite a different story.
“He was angry,” Notre Dame safety Xavier Watts told The Athletic. “He was angry with the press conference thing, whatever was going on between that. He was mad about that. All the anger went toward us and that anger went onto the field.”
Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love indicated he was similarly ticked off by Franklin’s comments, telling The Athletic, “I’m not gonna speak on their head coach.”
Marcus FreemanKevin C. Cox/Getty Images
“We felt like their team didn’t really respect us,” Love, 19, said. “We wanted to come into this game and make a statement. Be the aggressors. Dominate them physically. That’s the message. Be physical and play violent. The whole game.”
Inside the Notre Dame locker room at Miami Gardens’ Hard Rock Stadium, Fighting Irish linebacker Jack Kiser noticed the clock read 12:17 a.m., meaning it was his head coach’s birthday.
“Let’s just say that 17 minutes ago coach Freeman turned 39,” Kiser, 24, told The Athletic. “So he’s not that young guy that a lot of people treat him as. Guys want to play for coach Freeman, and when you put gas on that fire, it can get really explosive in this locker room.”
Notre Dame’s win over Penn State earned them a trip to the College Football Playoff National Championship, which goes down Monday, January 20 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. They will face the winner of Ohio State–Texas, who battle on Friday, January 10 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Freeman did not address Franklin’s comments after the game, but he did acknowledge the significance of Notre Dame’s win — which meant Freeman will become the first Black coach in history to coach in a college national championship game.
“I’ve said this before, I don’t ever want to take attention away from the team,” Freeman told ESPN’s Molly McGrath. “It is an honor, and I hope all coaches — minorities, Black, Asian, white, it doesn’t matter, great people — continue to get opportunities to lead young men like this. But this ain’t about me. This is about us. We’re going to celebrate what we’ve done because it’s so special.”
There is still a bit of a wait until the return of Justin Hartley‘s hit CBS show Tracker but the first photos from the midseason premiere tease a familiar face — and a spooky new one.
Tracker returns to CBS on Sunday, February 16, with an episode focused around Colter’s (Hartley) case about Gina Picket’s disappearance. After getting a tip from retired cop Keaton (guest star Brent Sexton), the duo work together to track down a serial killer known as The Teacher. The stills from the upcoming episode also reveal that Ryan Dorsey’s character Frank Whales is back after being introduced earlier this season.
Meanwhile, in another moment from the episode, Nicholas Lea is credited as a character named Noah Darview who dons a creepy mask. The midseason premiere is expected to pick up immediately after Colter received a break in his white whale case.
“We got into something. Wasn’t our fault, heavy stuff — we didn’t have a choice,” a former associate of Frank’s told Colter about working for someone called Teacher. “[He] knew things about us. Bad stuff. Held it over our heads. Even the others. He kept a long line of pretty boys to do his bidding.”
Teacher made Frank lure Gina to a place called The Farm. “He said he planted things there,” the unnamed man added before Colter asked if Gina was still alive. The episode cut to black before a “To be continued” message appeared on screen.
“When [Gina disappears], Colter makes a promise to [her sister] Camille — and I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but he never promises [his clients] anymore. He says, ‘I will bring her home … I will bring him home,’” he told TVLine in October 2024. “He says, ‘I am going to do my best … to try.’ This is why.”
Hartley teased how digging into Colter’s past with Camille (Floriana Lima) will unlock more details, adding, “[This story line] has been built in a way that, when you look at it, you go, ‘Oh man, that was a pivotal moment in Colter’s life that changed the way he approaches his work and his relationships with other people.'”
Darko Sikman/CBS
Despite the 11-week wait for more answers, Trackeris having a successful sophomore return on CBS. The season 2 premiere in October 2024 brought in 8.3 million total viewers, which was nearly 10 percent up in viewership from the season 1 finale. The season 2 premiere also marked the show’s highest audience since the series debuted in February 2024 after the Super Bowl.
Tracker has since been coined the most-watched broadcast premiere since NCIS’ final episode with Mark Harmon in September 2021. Its average viewership is 18.2 million per episode according to their Paramount+ and broadcast measurements. Variety’s annual list of the year’s 100 most-watched primetime telecasts revealed that Tracker episodes earned 15 spots.
Tracker returns to CBS Sunday, February 16, at 8 p.m. ET. New episodes stream the next day on Paramount+.
According to court records viewed by Us, James, 31, and Rotten, 55, filed a joint “Notice of Nonsuit” on Monday, January 6, to call off the proceedings. The divorce case is now listed as “closed.” In Touch was first to report the news.
James then chronicled their “BBQ Lunch” together via Instagram Story on Thursday, January 9, in which he tagged Rotten’s account while visiting Schmidt Family Barbeque in Texas.
James, who was previously married to Sandra Bullock, and Rotten got married in 2022 before she filed for divorce twice at the end of that year.
“The past week has been a pretty terrible week on all accounts … I mistakenly posted my private business between my husband and I on social media,” Rotten (real name Alaina Antoinnette James) wrote via Instagram at the time. “Yes I filed for divorce … the next day I filed a nonsuit to stop the divorce. I love Jesse so much and was very hurt by what I saw when I went through his phone. In his defense and the reason I am back home is that he didn’t say anything inappropriate.”
“The marriage has become insupportable because of discord or conflict of personalities between Petitioner and Respondent that destroys the legitimate ends of the marriage relationship and prevents any reasonable expectation of reconciliation,” the court docs obtained by Us read.
Rotten requested “exclusive use and control” of her 2022 Dodge Ram TRX and wanted to prohibit James from being able to track or monitor its location. She wished to retain ownership of her clothing, books, firearms and related gear that are stored in a private gun room, a pet cat named Olive and other personal effects.
In addition to her divorce filing, Rotten also requested a protective order “in connection with a child support case,” claiming that James “engaged in conduct that constitutes family violence.” According to Rotten, James “committed acts that were intended to result in physical harm, bodily injury, assault or sexual assault” or threatened to do so.
“I realized Jesse Gregory James’ anger was getting worse and worse,” she claimed in the docs. “To protect our baby and myself, I left home with [Bishop] and decided to file for divorce. Because of all the things he has done, I am very afraid Jesse Gregory James will cause me physical harm, cause me bodily injury or assault me.”
Courtesy of Alaina James/Instagram
James, meanwhile, entered a “general denial” to her accusations in his official response and asked that Rotten “take nothing.” He also filed for a protective order against Rotten, claiming that she committed family violence.
“Respondent committed acts that were intended by Respondent to result in physical harm, bodily injury, assault, or sexual assault or were threats that reasonably placed Applicant and the child Bishop Morrison James in fear of imminent physical harm, bodily injury or assault,” James’ docs read. “Respondent’s acts therefore constitute family violence. Respondent’s conduct was reasonably likely to harass, annoy, alarm, abuse, torment or embarrass Applicant and Bishop Morrison James.”
James further claimed that Rotten has “alcohol abuse issues and gets violent and aggressive,” asking the judge to appoint a separate guardian over Bishop. She never publicly addressed his counterclaims.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
If you or someone you know are experiencing domestic violence, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 for confidential support.
(L-R) Dylan Efron, Tom Sandoval, Britney Haynes, Jeremy Collins, Dolores Catania, Dorinda Medley, Bob Harper, Ciara Miller, Gabby Windey, Bob The Drag Queen, Nikki Garcia, and Chanel Ayan.Euan Cherry/Peacock
Murder is afoot in Scotland once again, and your favorite reality stars are falling victim to the newest batch of traitors.
The Traitors, the Peacock reality hit, began its third season on Thursday, January 9, and Dorinda Medley from The Real Housewives of New York City was the first casualty.
Ousted in the second episode by traitors Danielle Reyes, Carolyn Wiger and Bob the Drag Queen, Medley, 60, was devastated to leave the castle so early.
“I cried my eyes out,” she told Decider in an interview published Friday, January 10. “When I saw that envelope, it was so unexpected. First of all, I think I should have been a traitor. But it was so devastating because unlike the Housewives, where you can sort of go on and you’re in control of what you say, how you say it, what you’re doing…this, you just have no control over.”
The traitors decided to target the Housewives on the cast early, hoping to turn them against each other and cause chaos among the faithfuls.
“I just think they realized that the Housewives are strong characters. We’re opinionated, and we’re strong,” Medley added. “I think people especially think of me as a strong woman who’s been through a lot of stuff and doesn’t take a lot of bulls–t.”
Dorinda MedleyEuan Cherry/Peacock
While others might assume the Housewives wouldn’t match up with the former Survivor and Big Brother players who have already excelled on competitive reality shows, Medley said she did her best to be ready to play. She even admitted to preparing “too much.”
“I read The Art of War twice, I read every philosopher. I wrote in my journal. I planned my outfits to a T. My outfits were off the charts,” she said. “But I just think it all falls to the wayside once you’re there. You don’t know what to expect. That’s the problem. So you have to just sort of go with the flow.”
Though Medley’s time on The Traitors was short-lived, other housewives have gone deeper into the game. Shereé Whitfield made it to the finale of season 2, while Phaedra Parks was marked a traitor immediately and lasted until the penultimate episode.
As for a potential season 4, Medley has her own pick for who she wants to see in Andross castle.
“I think Luann [de Lesseps] would be great,” she said. “I think Ramona [Singer] would be amazing. Because Ramona’s very, very good at looking at things. She’s like a producer. I think they’d be the best.”
New episodes of The Traitors stream Thursday nights at 9 p.m. ET on Peacock.
The cast of Goosebumps: The Vanishing revealed whether they watched the first season — or spoke to the original stars of the show — after the anthology shakeup.
During an exclusive interview with Us Weekly, Ana Ortiz, Elijah M. Cooper, Galilea La Salvia, Francesca Noel, Stony Blyden, Sam McCarthy and Jayden Bartels discussed how they prepared to join a show that previously had a different cast and story.
“I think because of the anthology nature of it, it’s natural to keep it as new as possible,” Blyden, 28, who plays Trey, said about not spending too much dwelling on what came before. “But it was a fantastic season.”
Cooper, meanwhile, was a big fan ofGoosebumps, adding, “It really was a great watch. I watched the first season multiple times too. It was legitimately iconic.”
La Salvia, 21, who brings Frankie to life, couldn’t help but agree. “I definitely watched season 1 and I remember we would talk about it when we first got on set,” she recalled. “Like we would say, ‘Did you see the cliffhanger? Did you see this? Did you see that?’ It was really fun.”
The horror series originally premiered in October 2023 and took inspiration from R.L. Stine‘s popular horror novels. Goosebumps was introduced as a show that followed five teenagers who had to work together after accidentally releasing supernatural forces into their small town. While trying to recapture the evil spirits, the group unlocked secrets of their parents’ pasts.
Goosebumps initially starred Isa Briones, Ana Yi Puig, Zack Morris, Miles McKenna and Will Price as the show’s protagonists. However, when the series was renewed four months later, Disney confirmed there would be a cast and story shakeup. Season 2 is centered around twins who are sent to spend a summer in Brooklyn with their divorced dad (David Schwimmer) whose plant-testing takes a sinister turn.
“I’m someone who usually does approach things with a fresh perspective,” Noel, who portrays Alex, noted. “I saw the pilot of this. But I wanted to come into it differently because it’s a totally different world, and New York is very particular. And one of the great things about Goosebumps is that there are so many books. So there are so many stories that we could keep telling for 20 seasons.”
Ortiz had a similar experience where she “watched the first season” but “didn’t talk to any of the cast” from those episodes. Then there is Bartels, who researched season 1 before diving into playing Cece.
“I definitely would say I wanted to know the vibe and get that knowledge. But I think that it definitely was a fresh slate in another way too. It’s the same series, but I definitely wanted for my character and my performance to do what I felt was authentic and genuine,” she explained to Us. “We definitely pulled from the vibe of the first season, but this is a new story line and a lot of things are different. It’s all the same Goosebumps scares though.”
McCarthy agreed with Bartels’ take, adding, “[Season 1] was almost separate from the work I did.”
The shift wasn’t just felt in front of the camera but behind it as well. Executive producers Rob Letterman and Hilary Winston told Us about the challenges that came with starting from scratch in the same universe.
“When we switched into an anthology, it really fit what Goosebumps is. So if you’re fan of the books, you know that R.L. Stine doesn’t write happily ever after at the end of the books. In fact, he goes out of his way not to do that,” Letterman noted. “He leaves it with a cliffhanger or a twist. So when we looked at the ending of season 1, it just kind of felt like the perfect Goosebumps ending for what that story line was.”
They aren’t, however, ruling out a Goosebumps “multiverse.” There was also an effort to keep some aspects similar for returning viewers.
“Season 2 we wanted to swing the pendulum and do something different. But we also wanted fans of the first season to feel comfortable in the model of what the storytelling was. So that’s how we kept that structure of a mystery we have to unpack,” Letterman continued. “Something happened 30 years ago, and each character that you meet gets their own monster story line and they cross paths, and then by the middle of the season they’re figuring out it’s all related to what happened in the past.”
He concluded: “We liked that framing device but we wanted to tell something totally new and fresh. It’s a nice balancing act for keeping the familiarity of the Goosebumps TV series going while doing it as an anthology.”
Goosebumps is currently streaming on Disney+ and Hulu.
A top trend for 2025 when it comes to denim, Lucy Hale is showing Us how to make wide leg jeans look comfy and flattering!
The Pretty Little Liars actress was just spotted in Los Angeles, California on January 9, 2025 making a pit stop at Erewhon. To pick up her apparent green juice and iced coffee, she wore a comfy-casual fit that’s inspiration for our next beverage pick-up too. She wore a heathered gray long sleeve, some minimal gold jewelry pieces, a black woven bag, some bright blue Adidas sneakers and our favorite: her wide leg jeans.
It’s unclear as to where the actress got her exact pair, but thankfully we can still get her look with this similar version that’s just $40 on Amazon.
Recreate Hale’s comfy and body-flattering denim look with the Sidefeel Wide Leg Jeans. Just like her pick, they have the wide leg design, distressed details, high waistline and simple button and zip-up closure. Their raw hem detailing also adds a touch of rustic charm, along with their multi-side hem design as well.
Their fabric make consists of cotton, polyester and elastane, which makes them soft, breathable and a little stretchy too. This makes them easy to care for, able to be machine washed! They come in a similar light wash to Hale’s but also several other colors as well! They come in white, black and several dark washes as well. Another bonus: they come in custom length options as well, from short, to regular and tall too.
They’re far more than just a style that Hale is wearing though, Amazon shoppers have been into them as well. On top of them being a best-seller for women’s jeans, they’ve also now garnered up several hundred five-star ratings too.
One reviewer said that these jeans are their “all time favorite” because they’re “so comfortable and the stretch is amazing.”
“[They’re] still [a] jean material but with so much comfort,” they said. “I get so many compliments every time I wear them. [The] waist is very comfortable.”
Hale’s outfit serves as inspiration as to how to wear the jeans for things like errand running . . . sneakers and tee are key! However, they can be dressed up too! Wear them with some slingback heels and a blazer for a happy hour with the girls or a corset top and strappy heels for a date night. They’re so easy to mix and match!
We know jeans are an important purchase . . . you want to make sure you have the most flattering pair for your body! Check out a few of our other favorite wide leg jean options below so you can find your perfect fit.
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