TMZ reported in December that Lively sued Baldoni for sexual harassment and “severe emotional distress.” His lawyer, Bryan Freedman, said in a statement to Us Weekly that the allegations are “completely false, outrageous and intentionally salacious.” Us reached out to Lively’s rep for comment at the time.
Original story continues below:
It Ends With Us just hit theaters, but Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni ’s off-camera dynamic is what really has fans talking.
Prior to the opening on Friday, August 9, TikTok sleuths suspected that there’s a rift between the pair — partially linked to the movie’s final cut. The feud speculation originally began to swirl when fans noticed that Lively, 36, doesn’t follow Baldoni, 40, on Instagram, nor does anyone else in the cast. (Lively is also a producer on the project, while Baldoni directed the film.)
Lively has shared a lot of promotion for the movie featuring costars Jenny Slate, Brandon Sklenar, Isabela Ferrer and Alex Neustaedter and It Ends With Us authorColleen Hoover.
Baldoni, meanwhile, does follow Lively on social media — and appeared on Hoover’s Instagram several times while shooting the adaptation. Hoover, 44, is not currently following Baldoni, hinting at a bigger falling out.
Eagle-eyed fans also pointed out that Baldoni was noticeably absent from joint press events for the movie and there were no big cast photos from the New York City premiere.
Lively added her own fuel to the fire when she revealed that her husband, Ryan Reynolds, wrote part of the rooftop scene in the film. She noted at the time that she and Reynolds, 47, often enlist each other to help with various projects. Reynolds was later tapped to help promote the movie by doing an interview with Sklenar.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Lively allegedly then asked for a cut of the movie from editor Shane Reid before the film was finalized. (Reid previously worked with Lively on Taylor Swift’s “I Bet You Think About Me” music video, which she directed. He also worked as the editor on Reynolds’ Deadpool & Wolverine.)
The outlet noted that it is unclear whether any of the cut — credited to editors Oona Flaherty and Robb Sullivan — was used in the final version.
Us Weekly has learned that it’s not uncommon for someone to commission a different version of the film as part of the editing process before the movie hits theaters.
In the case of Lively and Baldoni the source noted, “All parties agreed on the final cut of the film and agreed that it’s the best version of the film.”
Despite rumors of tension between Lively and Baldoni, who play Lily Bloom and Ryle Kincaid, respectively, Baldoni has sung Lively’s praises throughout his press tour. He also pitched his costar to direct the possible sequel, which would be based on Hoover’s It Starts With Us novel.
“I think there are better people for that one,” Baldoni told Entertainment Tonight on Tuesday, August 6, when asked if he’d pull double duty again for the possible next installment.
He added, “I think Blake Lively is ready to direct. That’s what I think,” noting that he needed a “vacation” after starring and directing the movie.
Us Weekly reached out to Lively and Baldoni’s reps for comment.
It Ends With Us is now playing in theaters.
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.
Hallmark came in hot with its slate of 2024 movies and kept the hits rolling throughout the year — many of which still have Us talking.
There were International rom-coms like Two Scoops of Italy and period pieces like An American in Austen as well as holiday sequels that had Us rolling around on the ground laughing. We’re looking at you Three Wiser Men and a Boy.
Hallmark also released epic new sleuthing films on Hallmark Mystery and exclusive programming on its new streaming site, Hallmark+, that hooked Us in month after month.
Lacey Chabert, a.k.a. one of the queens of Christmas, starred in two of Us’ top 20 movies of the year with His & Hers — which was the 10th project for her and costar Brennan Elliott — and The Christmas Quest.
Chabert exclusively told Us Weekly in August that her “Countdown to Christmas” movie was a “grand adventure” that marked her first “treasure hunt” for the network. “Everyone knows I love Christmas, so I was super excited,” she added.
Keep scrolling for Us’ unofficial ranking of the best Hallmark movies of 2024 (and the standout moments that stole our hearts):
Grace (Skyler Samuels) accidentally meets Michael (Kapil Talwalkar) in “Dream Central” while she’s sleeping one night. She then goes on a wild goose chase to meet Michael IRL — except he has no idea who she is.
Crown-Worthy Highlight:
Similar to The Magic of Lemon Drops, the mystical element of My Dreams of You provided a new and welcome formula to Hallmark romance movies. — Miranda Siwak
The Magic of Lemon Drops combines fate, magic and a second chance at love. In this Hallmark film, Lolly (Lyndsy Fonseca) is gifted a trio of lemon drops from her eccentric aunt. According to her aunt, the drops are imbibed with magic that allow the user to experience three different life paths. Over the course of multiple nights, Lolly gets to see what life looks like had she pursued a different career, a relationship with her childhood love (played by Pretty Little Liars’ Ian Harding) and more.
Crown-Worthy Highlight:
The quirkiness of the magic lemon drops provided a new element to the traditional happy-go-lucky Hallmark movies. — Miranda Siwak
In the days before Christmas, ER doctor Hannah Michaels (Sara Canning) and EMT Wes Sullivan (Ser’Darius Blain) balance their busy jobs with celebrating the festivities Philadelphia-style. It is also Hannah’s first Christmas in Philly, and Wes is more than willing to teach her the ropes.
Crown-Worthy Highlight:
The authenticity and diversity made this movie what it was. Since Christmas on Call is set in Philadelphia, writers made sure to capture what the City of Brotherly Love is really like from enjoying Philly cheesesteaks, a plethora of Eagles merch and a surprise cameo from Donna Kelce, the mother of retired NFL center Jason Kelce. In addition, the cast showcased a range of racial and body diversity, which we love to see on the screen. — Miranda Siwak
Alexa, cue “Kiss Me” by Sixpence None the Richer. Workaholic lawyer Lucy Miller (Eva Bourne) is celebrating her promotion alone on Christmas Eve when a mysterious rideshare experience transports her back to 1999. Reliving the holiday with her mom, sister and best friend — not to mention her high school crush Matt (Chandler Massey) — Lucy gets a second chance to figure out where her relationships went wrong, but will she find the answers before the clock runs out? With fab ‘90s fashion, great tunes and an important lesson about prioritizing the ones you love, Hallmark takes what could be a zany premise and delivers the perfect mix of nostalgia and heart in a story that will keep you guessing.
Crown-Worthy Highlight:
Bourne and Massey’s natural chemistry jumps off the screen, and the pair commit to playing two awkward teens navigating the line between romance and friendship with beautiful ease. What impresses Us most, though, is how both actors play their characters at ages 18 and 40 — and we believe them! — Kat Pettibone
If there is one word to describe the protagonist in this Hallmark Mystery, it’s “quirky” and we mean that in the best way possible. Advice columnist Nelly (Pascale Hutton) inserts herself in the murder investigation of a local man much to the dismay of new detective Michael Hogan (Kavan Smith). As the case gets more intense, Nelly and Michael realize they’re better as a team and work together to solve the crime — which nearly everyone in town could have committed.
Crown-Worthy Highlight:
Hallmark Mystery has been upping its game when it comes to sleuth-based films. Nothing proves that more than this Nelly Knows movie. Not only does Nelly have crazy detective instincts but the nods to vintage fashion and retro décor and lingo had Us asking, “Where is this town and can we come for a visit?” Hutton described Nelly’s wardrobe as “Scooby-Doo-inspired,” while Smith exclusively told Us that the movie gives off “Edward Scissorhands” vibes. Need we say more? — Johnni Macke
After graduating college, Alice (Katie Findlay) and Max (Jordan Fisher) spent five years in a will they/won’t they relationship while prioritizing their respective dreams and navigating if their feelings for each other are more than just friendship. Telling the story over the course of five years is what makes this movie work, leaving viewers eager to find out what happened during the year before the group meets back up for Christmas.
Crown-Worthy Highlight:
The emotional connection between Findlay and Fisher really shines and sells the story for Us. — Sarah Hearon
It’s no secret that Chabert is the reigning queen of Hallmark, starring in several of Us’ top movies this year. In His & Hers, she teams up with Elliott and they play a married couple facing off in divorce court. Mark (Elliott) and Dana (Chabert) are each working with one-half of a reality TV power couple going through a public divorce.
Crown-Worthy Highlight:
This wasn’t just a love story about one couple, but two! Not only do Mark and Dana navigate their marriage in His & Hers, but so do their clients. In the end, both pairs find well-deserved resolutions. — Miranda Siwak
Hijinks don’t always work in Hallmark movies, but there was something just fun about librarian Whitney (Rachel Skarsten) ending up on an undercover mission with an FBI agent lacking Christmas spirit (Corey Sevier) after a blind date gone awry. The stakes? Finding the art thief who is targeting the Heart of Christmas necklace at a Christmas Eve charity Mistletoe Ball while trying not to fall in love IRL while fake dating!
Crown-Worthy Highlight:
The partnership of Skarsten and Seiver was sold the film, leading Us to think that they need their own crime-solving movie franchise over at Hallmark Mysteries. — Sarah Hearon
Maggie Lawson plays Emily, a woman who, after falling short year after year to deliver the perfect Christmas, makes a wish for a holiday as picture-perfect as the ones on the TV movies. Emily’s wish turns into a reality when Sugarplum herself (Janel Parrish) steps out of the screen to help her dream come true. However, while everything starts off falling right into place, Sugarplum quickly learns that her “movie rules” don’t always work in the real world, and both she and Emily get dealt a harsh dose of reality.
Crown-Worthy Highlight:
Give Parrish and Lawson all their flowers for the female-led Christmas comedy, but the biggest round of applause goes to Hallmark themselves for having enough perspective — and sense of humor — to troll themselves for two straight hours. There’s still plenty of heartfelt moments and lessons learned, but Sugarplummed leans into poking fun at the network’s reputation of creating worlds where nothing is bad, mysterious small town hunks always turn out to be someone’s true love and all anyone really needs is a little dose of holiday magic. But then again, what’s so wrong with that? — Kat Pettibone
Rhode Island in 1894? Sign Us up! This Hallmark Mystery movie follows society page writer Emma Vanderbilt-Cross (Ali Skovbye), who witnesses a murder while covering a ball at the Vanderbilt mansion. Although women were barely allowed to work at the newspaper at the time, Emma manages to insert herself into the investigation to help clear her brother’s name. Oh, and Emma has not one but two dreamy suitors to assist her along the way.
Crown-Worthy Highlight:
The costumes alone make Us want to watch this mystery on repeat. It successfully transports viewers back in time but adds even more flare with a murder mystery angle. Think Murder She Wrote but with a Bridgerton twist. — Johnni Macke
To celebrate “Loveuary” and Valentine’s Day in February, the network debuted a series of Jane Austen-inspired films. In An American in Austen, Harriet (Eliza Bennett) is magically transported into Pride & Prejudice after wishing on a star about the perils of modern dating. Harriet, a librarian, gets a firsthand glimpse at Mr. Darcy’s Pemberley estate and life with the Bennet sisters.
Crown-Worthy Highlight:
Anyone who’s poured over Austen’s Pride & Prejudice (or watched any of the onscreen adaptations) will love the chance to step into the world via Harriet’s eyes. — Miranda Siwak
Sibling duo Rose (Ashley Greene) and Sal (Danny Pellegrino) team up with hot contractor Brysen (Wes Brown) to renovate a house for a family in need with a Christmas deadline. A solid combination of sweet and silly, think HGTV if Chip and Joanna Gaines had quirkier personalities and shopped only at Home Goods.
Crown-Worthy Highlight:
Pellegrino, who penned the script, stars as the delightfully over-the-top Sal, complete with his own enemies-to-lovers story line with his former childhood enemy, Jake. Also, karaoke! — Sarah Hearon
This quaint, small town romance follows Meg (Erin Krakow), a Nantucket bookstore owner known for playing matchmaker to others, as she find love and direction in life after agreeing to review undercover famous author Graham’s (Robert Buckley) new novel in her blind-date-with-a-book club after he visits her store. While the pair’s opposite perspectives on literature initially causes some serious friction, they quickly realize they have more in common than they thought.
Crown-Worthy Highlight:
In the days of online dating, there’s something sparkly about the idea of still being able to find the love of your life in a quaint bookstore on a random day in April. If that person happens to be a witty and charming Buckley, well, even better. — Kat Pettibone
While Chabert’s Stefanie argues that it’s a “treasure hunt” and not a “quest,” this movie is most definitely both. Archeologist Stefanie enlists her ex-husband Chase’s (Kristoffer Polaha) help to track down the legendary Icelandic treasure hidden by the Yule Lads at Christmastime for the magical version of National Treasure we didn’t know we needed.
Crown-Worthy Highlight:
This movie is a literal treasure hunt full of clues, Icelandic folklore and Christmas traditions, which makes Us want to travel for the holidays next season. If the mystery itself doesn’t pull you in, Stefanie and Chase sipping Jólaöl a.k.a. Christmas ale is sure to peak your interest in European culture. — Johnni Macke
Retired hockey player Wes (Andrew Walker) is paired with not-so-adventurous Avery (Ashley Williams) for an Amazing Race-style reality competition titled The Great Holiday Dash. The twosome have to learn to work together while navigating the puzzles, physical challenges — and evil reality TV producers, of course!
Crown-Worthy Highlight:
Here at Us, there’s really no better combination than Christmas and reality TV. Plus, it’s not a coincidence that several of Walker’s 2024 films made the list. — Sarah Hearon
The success of Hallmark’s Wedding Veil trilogy made way for this year’s The Groomsmen, a series of three movies — First Look, Second Chances and Last Dance — about a trio of best friends as they navigate love and friendship through their wedding days. Set in the beautiful backdrops of Greece, Italy, and Bulgaria, each film tells a story from a different man's perspective, serving all of the tropes Hallmark fans have come to love.
B.J. Britt’s Pete learns love at first sight is real when he meets Chelsea (Heather Hemmens) at a wedding. Jonathan Bennett’s Danny navigates being best man to longtime manager — and secret love of his life — Zack (Alexander Lincoln), and Tyler Hynes’ Jackson, on the heels of a divorce, realizes a worthy sparring partner may actually be a match made in Heaven when he meets — and almost runs over — mysterious stranger Gabriella (Elena Rusconi).
Crown-Worthy Highlight:
Zack ditching his wedding to run after Danny and the pair sharing a passionate kiss over a cliff in Greece as Jackson and Pete cheer in the distance is the winning moment of the trilogy for Us, and Hallmark has come a long way in celebrating queer romance. (Honorable mention? The BFF wedding dance breakdown that occurs in the third film’s final moments. Those boys have got moves!) — Kat Pettibone
It can be rare for a “Miracles of Christmas” film (airing on sister network Hallmark Mysteries) to hit the same as the traditional “Countdown to Christmas” movie, but A Novel Noel, starring Julie Gonzalo and Brendan Penny, has the perfect amount of charm and chemistry. The flick follows a burnt out book editor (Gonzalo) who spends the holidays working at a bookstore owned by an (secretly) aspiring writer played by Penny.
Crown-Worthy Highlight:
It’s been a minute since a Hallmark movie made Us gasp at a plot twist! We don’t spoil it here, but we promise it will bring the feels. Bonus points for the wine and bookstore combination of our dreams. — Sarah Hearon
The only complaint we have about Two Scoops of Italy is that viewers aren’t magically able to taste all the gelato that’s consumed in this delightful rom-com. OK, in all seriousness, this film follows an American chef named Danielle (Hunter King) who goes to a small village in Italy for inspiration. Not only does she get the food tour of her dreams, but Danielle falls in love with the country and local Giancarlo (Michele Rosiello) as she helps him create a craveable gelato flavor to sell at his family’s café. Seriously, why can’t this be a story that happens to Us?
Crown-Worthy Highlight:
When Danielle and Giancarlo aren’t making and tasting gelato — have we mentioned how envious we are of this plot line? — they jump on a Vespa and explore the Italian countryside. Swoon. The picturesque location, olive oil tasting and local famer’s markets they visit make Us green with envy. The tale of an American finding love overseas might be commonplace for Hallmark but it’s still fine by Us. — Johnni Macke
Hallmark Mystery came out with not one, but two new Curious Caterer movies in 2024 but its Curious Caterer: Foiled Plans that takes the cake (no pun intended) for Us. Goldy Berry (Nikki DeLoach) gets hired to cater a Medieval feast at Hyde Castle, complete with themed costumes, a jester and a fencing exhibition. The only downer is that the host, Sir Alistair (Andrew Kavadas), gets murdered.
Luckily, Detective Tom Schultz (Walker) is at the mystical event and ready to solve the case. While the murder case itself is hard to crack, it's the twist involving Tom’s imprisoned father that left Us reeling.
Crown-Worthy Highlight:
Yes, the mystery is at the forefront of this film, but it’s the fact that Goldy and Tom finally kiss after tiptoeing around their feelings for three movies that lands it at so high on Us’ list. Add in the commitment to Medieval lingo by both Goldy and Tom (so cute!) plus intricate costumes and you’ve the perfect No. 2 pick. — Johnni Macke
Are you really surprised this is Us’ No. 1 pick this year? After their record-breaking Three Wise Men and a Baby, the Brenner brothers (played by Hallmark royalty Walker, Hynes and Paul Campbell) return for a sequel that lives up to the original in every way.
Set five years after Thomas (Miles Marthaller) first came into their lives, viewers catch up with Luke, Taylor, and Stephan and they find themselves at the helm of a school musical after the director quits. Oh, and did we mention the brothers are having a seriously hard time dealing with the fact their mom (Margaret Colin) has a brand new boyfriend? Cue all the major hijinks, laugh out loud moments and surprising new romances that made Us fall in love with these characters — and this heartwarming holiday story — the first time around.
Crown-Worthy Highlight:
How does one choose a single moment to highlight? There’s the return of the "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy,” various slow-mo montages set to epic needle drops and endless banter between our favorite trio. But we have to give this crown to Hynes and Marthaller’s one-on-one talk in the twinkle-light fort about believing in yourself, finding compassion and being brave even when doing so feels impossible. It’s a slowed down, intimate scene in a film that has a lot going on, and one that feels surprisingly authentic — as if the actors threw out their scripts and simply spoke from their hearts instead. — Kat Pettibone
Hallmark Media is kicking off 2025 with four all-new Hallmark Channel movies — taking viewers all around the world from the comfort of their couch.
The network announced in December 2024 that its “Winter Escape” lineup begins on January 4 with Love of the Irish. While filming the movie, star Shenae Grimes-Beech explored the Irish countryside with her husband, Josh Beech, and their two kids in tow.
“Hard not to romanticize the simple things when you’ve got 24 hours alone in an 18th-century Irish castle *swoon*,” Grimes-Beech captioned an Instagram video of her taking a bath, reading with a glass of wine and getting cozy during her downtime in October 2024.
After nearly a month of filming the rom-com — which also stars One Tree Hill alum Moira Kelly — Grimes-Beech told her followers that Ireland has a “huge chunk of my heart.”
Love of the Irish is just one of four travel-focused features Hallmark Channel will air in January — and there’s sure to be even more with Hallmark Mystery and Hallmark+ all releasing new movies throughout the year.Scroll down — and check back monthly — to see all the new movies coming to Hallmark Channel, Hallmark Mystery and Hallmark+ in 2025:
January — Hallmark Channel
‘Love of the Irish’
Premiere Date: Saturday, January 4, at 8 p.m. ET.
Stars: Shenae Grimes-Beech, Stephen Hagan and Moira Kelly
Logline: “Tired of her bad luck, Fiona (Grimes-Beech) takes her mom (Kelly) on a trip to Ireland to turn things around where she meets a charming single dad who helps her make her own luck.”
‘Polar Opposites’
Premiere Date: Saturday, January 11, at 8 p.m. ET.
Logline: “Emma (Fish) needs to get to Antarctica to reach her father and travels to South America but can’t get on a boat for the last leg. She sneaks onto a cruise ship and meets engineer Andy (Tarasiuk).”
Logline: “Abril (Gonzalo) goes to Argentina to save her family ranch from being bought by her ex (Di Pace). But when outside forces threaten the ranch the pair must come together, rekindling their love in the process.”
‘The Perfect Setting’
Premiere Date: Saturday, January 25, at 8 p.m. ET.
Stars: Laci J. Mailey and David Elsendoorn
Logline: “An aspiring jewelry designer (Mailey) returns to Belgium to visit her grandfather and hopefully win the Valentine’s Day Diamond Contest.”
January — Hallmark Mystery
‘The Jane Mysteries: A Deadly Prescription’
Premiere Date: Thursday, January 9, at 8 p.m. ET (originally aired on Hallmark+ but is now making its network premiere)
Logline: “Jane (Sweetin) seeks justice for a teenager who’s wrongfully imprisoned for murder. She and Detective John (Huszar) work together to prove the teen’s innocence and help reunite him with his mother.”
Kyle Cooke famously said, “Summer should be fun,” but his wife, Amanda Batula, admitted the anticipation of a new Summer House season is anything but.
“I feel like this lull between the super tease and the premiere is probably when I have the most anxiety,” Amanda, 33, exclusively told Us Weekly on Thursday, December 19, while promoting Amazon’s Buy With Prime feature. “Because it’s like you just start thinking about like, ‘Oh, my God, everything that’s gonna air.’”
Amanda noted that while it’s “exciting” for fans to get a glimpse of the upcoming season, the official trailer release gets her worked up. “I’m glad that it happens over the holidays, so that there’s plenty of stuff to distract us with,” she confessed.
She revealed, “Even though it was a great summer, it’s just always that anticipation of, ‘What the hell did we do?’”
Paige DeSorbo cried over a possible breakup with boyfriend Craig Conover, while one of her best friends, Ciara Miller, claimed Craig, 35, gives “hater energy.”
Although Amanda wasn’t at the heart of the drama, her spouse, 42, did get into a fight with her bestie Paige, 32. “The only reason I came here tonight was so that someone kept his wife company while he pretended to be Diplo,” Paige said of Kyle in the trailer.
Despite seemingly being in hot water with Paige, Amanda told Us that Kyle “doesn’t get anxious” about the show before it airs.
“It also just feels like a lifetime ago even though it was just last summer,” Kyle exclusively told Us of his mindset. “You know, what were you doing for every hour of your July 4th weekend?”
Amanda, however, confessed it’s “hard” to wait and see what made the cut. “It’s exciting to watch but it’s also just like, ‘Oh my God, what’s gonna play out?’”
Amanda Batula.
She teased, “Do you remember everything you said or did when you had a few cocktails? You know, it’s a little hazy.”
When she does watch the events unfold on TV, Amanda said it’s “weird” because so much has “transpired” since they wrapped filming. “You watch it back knowing what you know now and you have a different perspective on it than you did in the moment.”
One thing that Amanda doesn’t worry about every season is getting her costumes and vacation supplies shipped directly to the Hamptons thanks to Amazon’s Buy With Prime feature.
“Have you seen the boxes that stack up on our porch? I mean, we’re constantly using Buy With Prime [and] Amazon Prime,” Amanda explained. “It’s just so convenient. Like any last-minute things that we need, it’s just so easy to ship it to the house when we’re forgetting stuff.”
She revealed that “100 percent” of Kyle’s costumes and “98 percent” of her own looks this past summer came from Prime.
“I feel like Ciara orders most of her stuff to the Hamptons instead of her apartment,” Amanda said. “So there’s constantly personal boxes there for her.”
Amanda noted that because the Hamptons “takes a little bit longer” to get packages, she has turned to Buy With Prime because it curates “your favorite sites instead of doing the normal five to seven shipping days.”
Season 9 of Summer House premieres on Bravo Wednesday, February 12, at 9 p.m. ET.
Will Ferrell drew viewers in as the iconic Buddy the Elf in 2003’s Elf, and fans still can’t get enough of the silly holiday film more than two decades later.
In the Christmas movie, Buddy goes to New York City in hopes of finding his biological father, Walter Hobbs (James Caan), after learning that he is a human and not an elf as he’d always thought.
In October 2021, Ferrell revealed that fans won’t be getting an Elf sequel anytime soon, revealing that he turned down a major payday on a second movie because of the story line. A movie reunion, however, has not happened.
Scroll down to see what the cast of Elf has been up to since the movie’s 2003 release:
Ferrell portrayed Buddy the Elf. Ferrell went on to star in Anchorman, Blades of Glory, Step Brothers, Zoolander 2 and Barbie. Ferrell also appeared on The Spoils of Babylon, No Activity and The Spoils Before Dying, The Shrink Next Door and 2024’s The Boys. He has more than 80 producer credits, including LA to Vegas, I Love You, America, Drunk History, Dead to Me, Motherland: Fort Salem and Succession. The comedian has worked as a writer on more than 20 projects, such as the screenplay for Step Brothers, Eurovision and creating Funny of Die Presents…
The University of Southern California alum married Viveca Paulin. They share three sons: Magnus, Mattias and Axel.
Deschanel played Buddy’s love interest, Jovie. She then starred in Winter Passing, Failure to Launch, Bridge to Terabithia, 500 Days of Summer, Our Idiot Brother and voiced Bridget in the Trolls movies. The California native portrayed Jess Day — and served as an executive producer — on New Girl from 2011 to 2018. She has released six albums with M. Ward as part of the duo She & Him, including 2016’s Christmas Party. Deschanel was nominated for a Grammy in 2011 for “Song Long,” which was featured on the Winnie the Pooh soundtrack. She cofounded the website HelloGiggles with Sophia Rossi in 2015 and cohosted The Celebrity Dating Game with Michael Bolton in 2021. She's set to lend her voice to the 2023 animated film Harold and the Purple Crayon, based on the beloved children's book.
The A Tale of Two Besties coauthor was married to Ben Gibbard from 2009 to 2012 and to Jacob Pechenik from 2015 to 2020. She shares two children, daughter Elsie and son Charlie, with Pechenik. Deschanel has been dating Property Brothers star Jonathan Scott since September 2019. They got engaged in August 2023.
Caan portrayed Buddy’s biological father, Walter. The actor then appeared in Get Smart, Mercy, Blood Ties, Good Enough, JL Ranch, Con Man, Out of the Blue and Queen Bees. The New York native also starred on Las Vegas, Magic City and Back in the Game.
The Godfather star was married four times and had five children. Caan shared daughter Tara with first wife Dee Jay Mathis, whom he split from in 1966 after five years of marriage. He was then married to Shelia Ryan from 1976 to 1977. They welcomed actor son Scott Caan in 1976. The Misery actor shared son Alexander with third wife Ingrid Hajek, whom he was married to from 1990 to 1995. He tied the knot again in 1995 with Linda Stokes, but the pair split in 2009. They shared two children: sons James and Jacob.
The actor died in July 2022 at the age of 82.
The comedian played Buddy’s father, Papa Elf, who raised him in the North Pole. Newhart went on to appear in Horrible Bosses and Five. He had recurring roles on ER, The Librarians, The Big Bang Theory and Young Sheldon. The Illinois native has released eight live albums and two compilation records. He penned a memoir titled I Shouldn’t Even Be Doing This in 2006.
The Newhart alum married Ginny Newhart in 1963. The couple, who share four children, Robert, Courtney, Jennifer and Timothy, were married 60 years before Ginny’s death in April 2023. Bob died in July 2024 at the age of 94.
Asner portrayed Santa, who enlists Buddy’s help to save Christmas. The actor then starred in The Christmas Card, Gigantic, Up, Foodfight!, All of My Heart, Saving Christmas, The Parting Glass, Honor Amongst Men and Senior Entourage. He also appeared on Center of the Universe, Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip, The Line, Working Class, The Cleveland Show, The Boondocks, Michael: Every Day, Forgive Me and Dead to Me.
The Mary Tyler Moore alum died in August 2021 at age 91. He is survived by children Matthew, Kate and Liza, whom he shared with ex-wife Nancy Sykes, and son Charles, whom he shared with Carol Jean Vogelman.
Steenburgen played Walter’s wife, Emily. She then appeared in Elvis and Anabelle, The Brave One, Step Brothers, The Proposal, The Help, The Book of Love, Book Club, Happiest Season and Nightmare Alley. She starred on Justified, Joan of Arcadia, The Last Man on Earth, Bless the Harts, Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist. She also made a cameo appearance on husband Ted Danson's comedy series Mr. Mayor in 2022. Steenburgen reprised her role as Carol in 2023’s Book Club: The Next Chapter. The actress signed a global publishing deal with Universal Music Publishing Group in October 2020 after writing more than 50 songs dating back to 2007.
The Academy Award winning actress was married to Malcolm McDowell from 1980 to 1990. They share two children, Lilly and Charlie. Steenburgen tied the knot with Danson in 1995.
Tay played Buddy’s half brother, Michael. He then appeared in Doogal, Beer League and Brooklyn Rules before taking a step back from acting in 2009. He returned to the entertainment industry in 2017, reprising his role as the voice of Doogal during an episode of AniMat’s Classic Reviews. On his LinkedIn profile, Tay lists time as an actor as ending in May 2019.
The New York native graduated from Yale University in 2014 and spent time as an SAT tutor and bilingual editor. After working as research associate for Columbia University Irving Medical Center from 2020 to 2022 and a Patient Services Volunteer at New York Presbyterian throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Tay started medical school at Cornell University in 2022. He is set to graduate in 2026, his LinkedIn noted as of December 2023.
Love portrayed Buddy’s manager at Gimbel’s who is paranoid about getting fired Buddy secretly decorates the store. He went on to star in Just My Luck, The Perfect Holiday, Days of Wrath, Couples Retreat and Bulletproof 2, Santa Games and The Last Stop in Yuma County. The Cuba-born comedian appeared on The Big House and Step Up: High Water and was one of the stars on Real Husbands of Hollywood in 2016. He released three albums from his time on tour, including 2020’s Live From Portland.
Dinklage played an associate of Walter named Miles Finch, whom Buddy called an angry elf. Dinklage then appeared in Fortunes, Penelope, The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian, A Little Bit of Heaven, X-Men: Days of Future Past, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, Cyrano and The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes. He starred on Threshold and Nip/Tuck before landing the role of Tyrion Lannister on Game of Thrones, which ran from 2011 to 2019. In 2024, he starred in Unfrosted, The Thicket, Brothers and Wicked.
Dinklage’s producer credits include I Think We’re Alone Now, American Dreamer and the series How to Become a Tyrant. In addition to producing the 2022 dark comedy, the HBO alum also starred in American Dreamer. He also voiced a one-off character on Rick and Morty that same year.
The four-time Emmy winning actor married Erica Schmidt in 2005.
In a blink-and-you'll-miss-it moment, Billingsley — best known for his portrayal of Ralphie Parker in the holiday classic A Christmas Story — portrays the head elf in Santa's Workshop at the beginning of the film. The reason for his brief cameo? He co-produced the movie. The actor once again made headlines in November 2022 with the release of A Christmas Story Christmas, which he co-produced and starred in, reprising his beloved role of Ralphie.
Ethan Slater and wife Lilly Jay’s relationship spanned more than a decade before they parted ways — and he began seeing Wicked costar Ariana Grande.
The Broadway star — who is best known for playing SpongeBob SquarePants in the musical by the same name — found love with Jay in 2012. The twosome proceeded to make a life for themselves in New York City two years later.
Their romance culminated in saying “I do” in fall 2018. “Two years into marriage and we still find each other funny. Phew,” Slater wrote via Instagram in November 2020, sharing a rare photo from the pair’s nuptials. “Happy anniversary to the love of my life.”
While Slater and Jay appeared to be going strong in fall 2022 — they welcomed a baby boy that same year — by summer of the next year, they were no longer together.
In July 2023, Slater and Grande — who married Dalton Gomez in May 2021 — sparked romance speculation after getting close during their U.K. filming of the Wicked movie beginning in early 2023.
“Ariana and Ethan are dating; however things are fairly new. Ariana and Dalton split in January, and Ethan is separated from his wife,” a source told Us Weekly at the time. “Ariana and Ethan have only recently begun seeing each other but they have a lot of fun together and are enjoying each other’s company.”
Scroll down for Slater and estranged wife Jay’s relationship timeline from the beginning:
2012
Slater and Jay, who were high school sweethearts, began their romance.
Jay was by Slater’s side when he attended the 2018 Tony Awards following his nomination for Best Actor in a Musical for SpongeBob SquarePants.
November 2018
The twosome got married after six years of dating.
November 2022
“My best friend. 4 years married, 10 years together,” Slater wrote via Instagram in honor of their anniversary. “And this is easily the best (and most *bizarre*) year yet.”
Ethan Slater and Lilly Jay.
January 2023
Slater confirmed via social media that he and Jay welcomed a baby boy before the new year. “Super vague post, but we have a baby now,” he joked, sharing photos of Jay’s positive pregnancy test from December 2021, and a picture of them pushing a baby stroller in December 2022.
May 2023
“Happy first Mother’s Day to the most loving caring and wonderful mom/person in the world. — from me and this little guy,” Slater captioned a series of snaps via Instagram.
Days later, Us confirmed that Grande, who plays Glinda, and Slater, who was cast as munchkin Boq in the musical-inspired film, are dating in the wake of their respective splits. Neither Grande nor Slater have publicly spoken about their romance nor their recent breakups.
Slater filed for divorce from Jay on July 26. The reason for the split was not listed at the time.
September 2024
On September 12, Us Weekly confirmed that Slater and Jay finalized their divorce and reached a settlement. Details of their docs remained sealed.
In an essay for The Cut titled “How Does My Divorce Make You Feel?,” Jay opened up about how her highly publicized split from Slater affected her.
“No one gets married thinking they’ll get divorced … but I really never thought I would get divorced. Especially not just after giving birth to my first child, and especially not in the shadow of my husband’s new relationship with a celebrity,” she wrote. “Days with my son are sunny. Days when I can’t escape the promotion of a movie associated with the saddest days of my life are darker.”
Slater has since moved on with Grande, celebrating the release of their movie Wicked in November.
Austen Kroll hasn’t always been successful in love, but he does know a thing or two about dating during the holidays.
Kroll, 37, began seeing his current girlfriend, Audrey Pratt, during cuffing season last year. As they celebrate their one-year together, Us Weekly asked the Southern Charm star for his tips for entering — and maintaining — a romance that starts during the cozy months.
Cuffing season a.k.a. the holiday season refers to colder months when it’s desirable to snuggle up to a special someone and be in a romantic relationship. According to Kroll, it’s a total “yes” to start dating a new person during the autumn and winter months.
The reality star does, however, have mixed feelings on whether the new partner should meet one’s parents at the holidays.
Austen Kroll.
“How serious is this partner and how long have you been dating? Have you been dating for longer than three months?” he asked. “Then yes, you can introduce your partner to your family during the holidays.”
When it comes to gift giving in a new relationship, Kroll confessed that it’s “not my love language” so he’s not the best person to ask.
“I’m terrible because I feel like jewelry is such a lame gift, but women love jewelry, right?” he questioned. “I don’t know. … I mean are flowers, like, a lame gift? Yes.” Kroll said when in doubt turn to “girls that are friends” to help find the perfect present.
Although gifts aren’t his area of expertise, Kroll was confident about a few other cuffing season faux pas.
“If you’re on the fence about the relationship, you wait until after Christmas and the new year, probably [to break up],” Kroll told Us. “That would be cruel to break up with somebody right before Christmas.”
He also advised against “calling an ex because you don’t have a date” for a holiday bash, calling it a total “don’t.” If an ex calls you to be their plus one for a festive affair, Kroll said it’s “dealer’s choice.”
However, he aired on the side of caution and reminded Us, “They are an ex for a reason,” so maybe don’t pick up the phone.
No matter what stage of romance you’re experiencing, Kroll said that holiday movie dates or solo views is a must.
“My favorite holiday rom-com to watch by the fire during the holidays at the moment is The Holiday,” he shared. “I’ve seen it two times already this December.”
Southern Charm airs on Bravo Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET.
“He’s a troll,” Madison, 34, said about JT during the Thursday, December 19, episode of the Bravo show. “With JT after hearing what he said about us, I don’t want to associate myself with this guy.”
Madison told friends Craig Conover and his girlfriend, Paige DeSorbo, “You don’t play around with something like that,” vowing to “ring his neck.”
During the December 12 episode of Southern Charm, JT told multiple people that Madison’s husband thought he and Madison hooked up during the group’s trip to Jamaica last season. While Craig, 35, and Shep Rose told JT, “No one thinks that,” JT was adamant that Brett, 38, perceived it that way.
“JT is a friend of mine. Or was. I was his ally. I had his back,” Madison said on the latest episode. “So, the fact that he’s talking about my marriage feels like a slap in the face.”
She also revealed that since Brett was diagnosed with thyroid cancer in fall 2023 — which she announced earlier this season — JT spreading rumors about them hurt even more. (Brett underwent surgery to remove a three-centimeter nodule and is now in remission, but Madison said his recovery has been filled with highs and lows.)
“The last thing that I need is some weasel in the middle of this real-life s—,” Madison told the cameras.
Later in the episode, Madison confronted JT about his allegations. “You made an accusation that my husband thought that you and I were having an affair,” Madison told him during a coffee meet-up.
JT, however, claimed that his words “may have gotten a little bit twisted,” alleging, “I didn’t say we had an affair.”
Madison explained that she felt “blindsided” that he’d speak negatively about her and her marriage since she thought they were friends. “It has never been anything more than that,” she said before throwing shade at her costar. “Sorry, JT, but are f—ing blind? Have you seen my husband? Do you really think for one second, I would have an affair with you?”
JT was taken aback but didn’t let up. He noted that when Madison previously FaceTimed him with Brett to ask about what happened in Jamaica she was “confused.”
“The one time that we called you it was because he said, ‘Wait, who was in your room late at night?’ I said, ‘Well, a bunch of people came back to my room,’” Madison recalled telling JT, “It was never just me and you.”
The hairstylist, who married Brett in November 2022, told the cameras that her spouse is “not a jealous person.” However, since Madison called him every night except one on the trip, he had her call JT to clarify what transpired that evening.
“I think Brett was just trying to confirm that it wasn’t me and [my ex] Austen [Kroll] hanging out drinking red wine, eating McDonalds in the bed,” Madison revealed.
JT noted that he felt “uncomfortable” that Brett and Madison called him together to question him about the getaway. He alleged that after the call, “everything changed” with Madison and their friendship. “You mean girled me,” he claimed, telling Madison that he was left wondering “what did I do wrong?”
Madison, however, didn’t have time for JT or his feelings about the situation. “I think Austen might’ve been right about you this whole entire time. You are not a gentleman,” she declared.
She then mentioned another rumor. “You called Patricia a bitch? You’re the bitch,” Madison said, referring to Craig’s claim that JT used that word to describe Patricia Altschul behind her back.
“What? What are you talking about? I don’t believe that I ever called that woman that word,” JT said in response. He then apologized for not knowing “how to handle” his FaceTime with Madison and Brett.
He concluded by saying he wanted to “leave it there,” saying his and Madison’s drama “doesn’t need to go any further.”
Madison didn’t agree. “You’re unbelievable. I don’t even know why I’m wasting my time speaking to you,” she said before leaving the table.
After leaving JT alone, Madison told the cameras she was done with him. “I’ll be mad at JT until the day I die,” she vowed. “I think it’s starting to hit him that he made a huge mistake. I think he’s just realizing he lost a good friend.”
Southern Charm airs on Bravo Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET.
Craig Conover and Paige DeSorbo are a match made in reality TV heaven — and their quirky romance is why they’re Us’ pick for Bravo’s best couple of 2024.
Craig, 35, has been a fan-favorite on Southern Charm since his 2014 debut and Us Weekly’s love for him has grown almost as much as his pillow empire year after year. (Remember when he famously asked, “What’s wrong with my sewing?” Now he owns Sewing Down South and the pillows are magical.)
Paige, meanwhile, joined Summer House in season 3, which aired in 2019, and has become known for her sassy — and sometimes savage — one-liners. Season 9 hasn’t even premiered and her quip in the trailer about costar Kyle Cooke pretending to be “Diplo” already has Us reeling for more.
While Craig and Paige, who began dating in 2021, have faced split rumors over the course of their romance, Craig has denied there is trouble in paradise. “We’re still together,” he told E! News on December 9, confirming that he and his “chicken,” as he calls Paige, are still going strong despite living in different cities.
Scroll down to see why Paige and Craig are Bravo’s best couple of 2024:
Costumes Aren’t for Casual Conversations
Whenever Craig pops up in the Hamptons to see Paige on Summer House the pair somehow find themselves having serious discussion while wearing the most absurd costumes. Think pirates or flamingos and you’ve got it.
Honestly, it doesn’t matter the topic, Us is just fans of watching Craig explain his conspiracy theories in “end of the world” style costumes or Paige recounting a fight while dressed like a race car driver.
Paige Is Making an Italian Out of Craig
During a February episode of Summer House, Paige revealed that she had to teach Craig about the different types of pasta. She confessed that Craig “Googled, ‘What is rigatoni’ when we were in Italy.” His reason? “He couldn’t remember the shape of it,” Paige said.
Gabby Prescod responded, “That’s not even a niche noodle!” to which Paige replied, “No, it’s not niche!”
Despite Craig’s noodle faux pas, Paige has continued to show him her Italian roots by going to Itay together several times. After their September trip to Capri, Craig shared a series of Instagram photos, including a selfie by the sea, snaps of different pasta dishes and desserts. “I date an Italian,” he captioned the post.
If You’re a Witch, I’m a Witch
Craig and Paige don’t shy away from awkward conversations, in fact they usually add fuel to each other’s fire.
During a March episode Summer House, Paige asked a serious question: “If we were dating for, like, six months and then I told you I believed that I’m a witch, would you stay with me? Or would you break up with me?”
Craig said it “wouldn’t bother” him and he’d actually “think it’s cool.” Paige, however, joked if the roles were reversed, she wouldn’t be down. “If you were a witch, I’d break up with you,” she quipped, to which Craig asked, “Can boys be witches?”
Their Travels Give Us Envy
When they’re not traveling back and forth between Craig’s house in Charleston and Paige’s pad in New York City, the couple are jet setting around the world. Their getaways to Italy are at the top of Us’ envy list, but their trips to St Tropez, France and Aspen, Colorado, this year also made Us jealous.
Craig Isn’t Afraid to Feel All the Feels
Craig has made it clear in the past that he wants to get married and have kids, and while he and Paige aren’t there yet, he’s not afraid to talk about his feelings.
“[We’re] really just not letting the unknown of the future ruin our happiness today,” Craig exclusively told Us in September of his and Paige’s choice to stay long distance. “With our ability to travel and technology, we’re very fortunate to be able to spend half our time in New York and the other half in Charleston. They’re two great places to live.”
He explained that “until we have kids” they don’t have to “pick a place” to put down roots. Craig also noted that he could “go date someone that lived in Charleston” but she “wouldn’t be the right person.”
The reality star added that for now he and Paige are “just kind of enjoying life and seeing where [it goes] and [seeing] what we can do with our careers.”
Distance Makes Their Hearts Grow Fonder
“Craig is my sweet, sweet, sensitive, childlike boyfriend. I have been taking care of him now for two years,” Paige said during the Summer House season 8 premiere, which aired in February. “Currently, we’re still doing long distance. But I feel, like, in a good rhythm now.”
That same month, Paige trolled her boyfriend from afar after he posted a sexy photo at the gym during their time apart. “Did you just post a thirst trap? We will talk when I get home,” she cheekily wrote in the comments section.
They Raised the Bar on Couples Style
Craig had a somewhat preppy southern style when fans first met him, but after dating Paige he has upgraded his look. Paige has always had style, and her fit photos on social media inspire Us on the regular, but her work with Craig has elevated his wardrobe and made him even sexier.
Paige Stands Her Ground on Their Timeline
When Paige called Craig her “friend” and said she thought of him as her “best friend” during an April episode of Summer House, Danielle Olivera grew concerned. Paige, however, stood her ground and said she’s confident he’s The One. “I’m going to marry him but it’s going to be on my own terms,” she declared.
Craig exclusively told Us in September that he’s cool with Paige’s timeline. “It’ll be fun when that time comes,” he said of marriage. “I think the fact that we’ve been able to settle down and just chill has been really nice.”
Homebodies for the Win
“For Paige and I, time spent in the backyard, that’s our quality time,” Craig revealed during a season 10 episode of Southern Charm, which aired in December, referring to his decked out house in Charleston.
He explained, “When we first started dating, we were out and about all the time. We’ve just grown with each other where we’d rather spend the time at home relaxing than out partying. I built this sanctuary for us to be away from the world and be able to relax and connect.”
The one thing the couple doesn’t have yet is a dog, which Craig exclusively told Us in September is a “great idea.” He noted that Paige’s cat, Daphne, “would love a brother.” He gushed, “I’m all about growing our little animal family.”
He’s the Pillow King — And She’s His Queen
In 2023, Paige teamed up with Craig for two Sewing Down South collections that she helped design. “It’s a fun complementary relationship where we’re busy enough that we have our own stuff going on, but we’re always able to support the side projects and stuff,” Craig exclusively told Us in September.
While they haven’t released a third collection this year, Paige has consistently supported her man, which makes Us love them even more.
The couple did, however, add to their cozy and comfortable brand when Craig made an appearance on Paige’s “In Bed With Paige DeSorbo” Amazon Live web series in July. As they sat in bed, Paige grilled Craig on different female beauty products to test his knowledge.
Amy Slaton signed a plea deal after her September arrest, Us Weekly can confirm.
The 1000-Lb. Sisters star, 37, pleaded guilty to “simple possession” in a plea deal submitted to the Crockett County courthouse in Tennessee on Thursday, December 19, according to docs obtained by Us.
She received a suspended sentence of 11 months and 29 days to time served and therefore won’t spend any time behind bars. Slaton will have to pay a $500 fine and attend an alcohol and drug assessment. Additionally, she cannot have any contact with the Tennessee Safari Park.
Slaton’s additional charges of child abuse and child endangerment were dismissed, per the filing.
Slaton was arrested in September after the Crocket County Sheriff’s Department was called about a guest being bit by a camel at the local drive-through zoo.
“Upon arrival, deputies were immediately overtaken by suspicious odors coming from the guest’s vehicle,” the police revealed in the social media statement. (Slaton was reportedly bitten by the animal at the zoo and taken to the ER for medical attention before being taken into custody.)
When police investigated further, they arrested Slaton on “illegal possession of Schedule I, illegal possession of Schedule VI, and two counts of child endangerment,” per the report.
Slaton was also with a man named Brian Scott Lovvorn, who was arrested on the same charges. Her two children, sons Gage, 4, and Glenn, 2, whom she shares with ex-husband Michael Halterman, were also in the car during the incident. (Lovvorn’s case has not yet been resolved.)
Us confirmed at the time that Slaton and Lovvorn were thought to have had mushrooms and marijuana in their possession at the time of their arrests.
After Slaton was taken into custody, the Department of Children and Family Services became involved in the case to make sure her two boys were not harmed or in danger.
Both Slaton and Lovvorn initially pleaded not guilty to the drug possession and child endangerment charges. According to Thursday’s filing, Slaton has since pleaded guilty to the lesser charge.
Amid all her legal drama, Slaton gave fans a glimpse at her home life, sharing photos in October of each of her sons dressed in Halloween pajamas. “2024,” she captioned the social media post.
The following month, Slaton took her boys to “meet Santa” dressed in festive Grinch-themed sweatpants. The kids wore Christmas light-printed beanies that matched their mom’s hat.
Prior to her arrest, Slaton gained fame by starring on TLC’s 1000-Lb. Sisters with sibling Tammy Slaton. The show premiered in 2020 and documented their respective weight-loss journeys and health highs and lows.
Phil Collins will always love playing the drums, but years of rocking and rolling has taken its toll on his hands.
“I’ve spent all my life playing drums. To suddenly not be able to do that is a shock,” Collins, 73, confessed in the Phil Collins: Drummer First documentary, which was released by Drumeo on Wednesday, December 18.
The musician explained that after playing drums in concert with Genesis for five decades and on solo tours since the ‘80s, it impacted his hands and legs. The strain on his body led Collins to retire from drumming in March 2022 after his last performance with his band Genesis.
“If I can’t do what I did as well as I did it, I’d rather relax and not do anything,” he said. “If I wake up one day and I can hold a pair of drumsticks, then I’ll have a crack at it.”
“I just feel like I’ve used up my air miles,” Collins continued, noting that not being able to play was “still kind of sinking in a bit.”
The Oscar winner got his first plastic drum at the age of 3, which started it all. Two years later, Collins was playing music for his family. “It was something I could sit at, and I thrashed along to the TV set,” he recalled.
Looking back on his career, Phil’s son Nic Collins said his dad was like many musicians of his time and didn’t think about what drumming would do to his muscles.
“Musicians, people in bands in general had this thought that they were invincible,” Nic, 23, explained. “I think that’s really what it is with my dad is just this kind of sense of you’re a drummer, you’re invincible, you do what you do. But you don’t know it’s gonna take a toll in the long run.”
In 2015, Phil underwent neck surgery that “stemmed from all those years playing drums and bad posture,” according to Nic. Phil also suffers from drop-foot, which is when one of your feet has no sensation. That ailment led to the singer using a cane.
Ahead of Genesis’ reunion, Phil announced that Nic would be taking over for him at the drums because of his health. He remained on as the lead vocalist.
“I’d love to, but you know, I mean, I can barely hold a stick with this hand. So there are certain physical things that get in the way,” Phil told BBC Breakfast in September 2021. “I’m kind of physically challenged a bit which is very frustrating because I’d love to be playing up there with my son.”
Phil hinted at the time that the tour could be his last. “We’re all men of our age, and I think to some extent, I think it probably is putting it to bed,” he teased. “I think, yeah, I think just generally for me, I don’t know if I want to go out on the road anymore.”
Phil joined Genesis in 1970 as the drummer. The band consisted of bassist Mike Rutherford, keyboardist Tony Banks, guitarist Steve Hackett and singer Peter Gabriel. The group went on hiatus in 2000 but reunited in 2006 for the Turn It On Again Tour.
Phil headed out on The Last Domino? Tour with Genesis in September 2021. His last show with the band took place in March 2022 with Nic on the stage with him and his daughter Lily Collins in the crowd.
“Tonight marks the end of an era. To have witnessed this last show was truly the memory of a lifetime and an event I shall hold in my heart forever,” Lily, 35, wrote via Instagram after the show in London.
She continued: “Endlessly grateful doesn’t begin to do it justice. So much love was left on that O2 stage and an even bigger amount shared between an audience who didn’t want it to end. Thank you @genesis_band for the memories, thank you dad for being such an inspiration and thank you @nic_collins for making me the proudest sister there is. 50 years of songs later and still generations more to celebrate you long after this tour has finished…”
Phil shares son Simon, 48, and adopted daughter Joely, 52, with first wife, Andrea Bertorelli, whom he divorced in 1980 after five years of marriage. He shares Lily with Jill Tavelman, whom he was married to from 1984 to 1996. The musicians also shares Nic and son Matthew, 20, with ex-wife Orianne Cevey. The exes were married from 1999 to 2008.
Nothing screams the holidays like snuggling up on the couch, grabbing cocoa and putting on a festive movie.
Us Weekly has rounded up the most “snuggle-worthy” Christmas films to stream this season, including The Holiday, White Christmas and Hallmark’s The Christmas Cottage.
“Going on to the sets for The Holiday, you just felt like you were walking into the characters’ homes,” Cameron Diaz, who played Amanda in the 2006 rom-com, told Vulture in December 2020. “You kind of forgot that you were on a soundstage.”
She noted that the cozy feel of the movie stems from the “wonderful” sets that director Nancy Meyers created. “Lots of textures, lots of layers. … So that kind of wraps around you when you walk on set,” Diaz added.
The Holiday’s winter wonderland locations, including a cozy cottage in England, is just one of many reasons it’s on Us Weekly’s snuggle-approved Christmas movies list.
Take it from Amanda (Diaz) this holiday season, who travels from California to England for the quintessential Christmas experience. While in town, she watches movies bundled up in her cozy cottage before finding love with Graham (Jude Law). What’s not to love? Oh, and the second story line of Iris (Kate Winslet) finding The One with Miles (Jack Black) after trading houses with Amanda is just as sweet.
Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye as the dynamic duo of Bob Wallace and Phil Davis are just half of the reason viewers should watch this 1954 classic on repeat. Add in the sister act of Betty (Rosemary Clooney) and Judy Haynes (Vera-Ellen) and their chemistry with the charming performers and you have the perfect holiday feature. Plus, the snowy Vermont backdrop and singing of “White Christmas” can’t be missed.
You’d be a cotton headed ninny muggins if you skipped out on watching Elf every winter. As Buddy the Elf (Will Ferrell) says, “The best way to spread Christmas cheer, is singing loud for all to hear” and he does just that in this charming movie. Unlike other elf movies, Buddy is a human who was raised by elves and when he comes to New York, his world is turned upside down.
The Hallmark Channel churns out hit after hit when it comes to their “Countdown to Christmas” content, but The Christmas Cottage is special. The 2017 movie follows Lacey (Merritt Patterson) as she helps organize her best friend’s Christmas wedding. Her biggest job is setting up the Christmas cottage for the newlyweds, which is just as dreamy as you’d imagine. The cottage’s magic, however, isn’t just for the bride and groom, it works on Lacey and her ex-boyfriend Ean (Steve Lund), who just so happens to be the best man.
You can’t stay in during the festive season and not watch Kevin McAllister (Macaulay Culkin) defend his Chicago home from the wet bandits! The comedy is made that much sweeter by Kevin’s happy reunion with his parents, who foolishly left him home alone while they flew to Florida.
No matter how old you get, Charlie Brown and Snoopy’s attempt to find the perfect Christmas tree is a must-watch. The Peanuts gang gives Us the warm and fuzzies in this film as they find the true meaning of the holiday spirit.
It doesn’t matter which version of this Christmas classic you watch — either the 1947 version with Maureen O’Hara or the 1994 film with Mara Wilson — the story is magic. It follows the tale of Macy’s Santa Claus, who argues in court that he’s the real deal. While not everyone can live in New York City, this movie will bring the Big Apple at the holidays to viewers on their couch.
Tim Allen’s Scott Calvin starts off as a scrooge in this film, but after putting on Santa’s suit on Christmas Eve, he transforms into the magical figure. With the help of his son, Charlie (Eric Lloyd), who is an adorable true believer, he embraces his new role. Grab your snuggly blanket, a giant bowl of popcorn and elf-approved hot cocoa and watch all three Santa Clause movies for a perfect night in.
The heartwarming message of It’s a Wonderful Life has been resonating with viewers for decades. While George Bailey (James Stewart) does go through a dark time in the movie — and learns what life without his family would entail — he is reunited with his loved ones on Christmas day, a true gift.
Claymation stories might be a thing of the past, but this 1974 film stands the test of time. Between the hilarious battle between brothers Heat Miser and Snow Miser for the North Pole and Santa choosing to push through his sickness to deliver presents, it’s the ultimate feel-good movie.
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen star in this 1992 feature, which is highly underrated. The sweetness factor is in high supply as twins Sarah and Julie (the Olsen sisters) hit the road to find happiness at their great-grandmother’s house in time for the holidays. Seriously, it's almost too cute.
Once upon a snowflake, moviegoers were treated to the 2000 version of this Dr. Suess tale starring Jim Carrey as the Grinch. Although he starts off with a hatred for the Whos down in Whoville, the Grinch’s happy ending — which includes singing and carving the roast beast — is something to smile about. Plus, his dog Max as a reindeer is adorable.
2007’s The Perfect Holiday often flies under the radar, but it is a love story for all. In the movie, single mom Nancy (Gabrielle Union) falls for a department store Santa (Morris Chestnut), who lies about his job … but his feelings for her are the real deal. Employee of the month, anyone?!
This black-and-white movie from 1945 is sure to transport you back in time and right into the ultimate Christmas town. Viewers can’t help but root for food writer Elizabeth Lane (Barbara Stanwyck) to get her happily ever after, even if she lied about being the perfect housewife. The traditional family Christmas she whips up is best watched under the covers with your own loved ones.
Nothing screams nostalgia like watching The Muppet Christmas Carol by a roaring fire. The twist on the classic holiday fable — yes, Gonzo dresses up as Charles Dickens, top hat and all, and Kermit is Bob Cratchit — is an instant dose of good cheer that will transport viewers back to their childhoods instantly. Plus there are singing Muppets, comedic bits and costumes galore! What’s not to love?
The idea of getting to relive Christmas Eve on repeat is great, but getting to go on a date with Mark-Paul Gosselaar for 12 consistent days sounds like a dream come true. That’s exactly what happens for Amy Smart’s Kate when she romances Gosselaar’s Miles. While ABC Family is no longer a channel, trust Us — this 2011 holiday rom-com still holds up!
Austen Kroll has been an open book when it comes to his love life on Southern Charm, but he kept his cards close at the start of his relationship with Audrey Pratt.
Kroll first teased their budding romance in January 2024. He shared a glimpse of Pratt, who resides in North Carolina, during a group trip to Mexico the following month, but he didn’t publicly talk about her until months later.
The reality star exclusively told Us Weekly in December 2024 that after one year together he learned that not all relationships have to be “tumultuous and hard.” (Kroll’s ups and downs with ex Madison LeCroy included getting caught on camera cheating before they split in December 2020.)
“Whether she knows it or not, [she] is a big part of my happiness and my inner peace,” Kroll gushed to Us, calling Pratt “very, very chill.”
Pratt’s calm demeanor has made her fit in easily with their Southern Charm group. “I have nothing but good things to say about her,” LeCroy exclusively told Us in December 2024, giving Kroll’s new partner her stamp of approval.
Scroll down to see Kroll and Pratt’s relationship from the start:
December 2023
Kroll confirmed to Us in December 2024 that he and Pratt “began to date at the end of December” one year prior. He teased that he would tell fans “yes” to dating someone during “cuffing season,” a.k.a. the cold winter months, since that’s when he first pursued Pratt.
January 2024
“I am seeing someone right now, yeah,” Kroll teased during an appearance on Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen. He confirmed at the time that she did not live in Charleston.
February 2024
Fans caught a glimpse of Pratt in an Instagram video Kroll posted after returning home from a group vacation in Mexico. “8 nights in 7 spicy margs drank on night 1. 6 great friends 5 nights @moonpalacecancun 4 nights of @phish 3 nights @etereoauberge 2 nights of 1 (00th) Phish show,” he captioned the post.
May 2024
Kroll and Pratt enjoyed a hockey date cheering on the Carolina Hurricanes. The outing marked the first Instagram grid photo of the couple.
June 2024
The Trop Hop beermaker celebrated his birthday with Pratt in Mexico City.
July 2024
When Kroll and costar Shep Rose headed to Arlington, Texas, for the MLB All-Star Home Run Derby, Pratt tagged along for the fun.
December 2024
Pratt made her Southern Charm debut during season 10, first over the phone before joining Kroll in Charleston for a group event. Kroll exclusively told Us that same month that Pratt would be popping up in a few episodes of the season, which began filming in March 2024.
When it comes to their future, Kroll said he’s not quite ready to put a ring on it. “It’s an interesting thing, but we’re certainly not rushing anything and we’re just enjoying [it],” he teased to Us. “She lives in Charlotte, [North Carolina], so she doesn’t live in Charleston, [South Carolina]. And that’s fine. It’s like a quick little drive. It’s nice.”
He added that calling someone his “girlfriend” was a “shock to even say,” so they’re taking things slow. Kroll, however, told Us that he couldn’t “ignore” his “feeling” about their connection from the moment they met.
Tim Allen brought Father Christmas to life in 1994’s The Santa Clause — and fans are still enchanted by his hilarious depiction of the iconic holiday figure.
One year later, Scott must embrace the role and deliver gifts to children near and far with help from the No. 1 elf, Bernard (David Krumholtz), and his son, who never stops believing in Santa — or his dad.
Allen reprised the role for 2002’s The Santa Clause 2 and 2006’s The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause. More than a decade later he slipped back on the red suit and hat for Disney+’s The Santa Clauses, which premiered in 2022.
Scroll down to see what the original stars of The Santa Clause and The Santa Clause 2 are doing now:
Allen portrayed both Scott Calvin and later Santa Clause in all three of the Disney movies. The Colorado native has also starred in the Toy Story franchise as Buzz Lightyear, Jungle 2 Jungle, Galaxy Quest, Christmas With the Kranks, Wild Hogs and El Camino Christmas. His TV hits include Home Improvement, which ran from 1991 to 1999, and Last Man Standing, which ended in 2021. His latest show, Shifting Gears, will premiere in January 2025.
The actor made his producer debut in 1990 and has since worked on projects including The Six Wives of Henry Lefay, Assembly Required, Last Man Standing and More Power, which he started cohosting in 2022. Allen reprised his Scott/Santa role in 2022’s The Santa Clauses.
The Shaggy Dog star was married to Laura Deibel from 1984 to 2003. The exes share daughter Katherine, who was born in 1989. Allen went on to marry Jane Hajduk in 2006 and the couple welcomed daughter Elizabeth in 2009. Elizabeth plays Allen’s daughter in The Santa Clauses.
The California native portrayed Scott Calvin’s son, Charlie, in all three Santa Clause films. The actor later starred in Dunston Checks In, Deconstructing Harry, My Giant, Luminous Motion and Chromeskull: Laid to Rest 2. Lloyd also played Little John Warner on Jesse from 1998 to 2000. He eventually stepped behind the camera in 2017 and started working as a sound mixer and designer. His projects include 11 episodes of Sisters and the short film Grandpa: The Horror.
Lloyd returned to acting in 2017 as well with a role in Weedland. He has since appeared on Comic Conventions and made a cameo on one episode of 2022’s The Santa Clauses.
Krumholtz played No. 1 elf, Bernard, in the first two holiday films. He went on to star in 10 Things I Hate About You, Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle — and its sequels — Superbad, The Big Ask, I Saw the Light, Ghost Team, Wonder Wheel, Crown Vic, Asking for It and Class. The California native’s TV credits include Numb3rs, The Playboy Club, The Newsroom, Partners, Gigi Does It, The Good Wife, All Hail King Julien and The Plot Against America. The actor is also a producer having worked on Gigi Does It, which he also wrote, and Class. After being noticeably absent from The Santa Clause 3, Krumholtz slipped back into his elf costume for Disney+’s 2022 miniseries The Santa Clauses. He has since starred in 2023’s Oppenheimer and 2024’s If That Mockingbird Don’t Sing.
The Monty alum has been married to Vanessa Britting since 2010. The couple share daughter Pemma and son Jonas.
Crewson portrayed Charlie’s mom, and Scott’s ex-wife, Laura Miller. She reprised the role in both sequels. The Canada native then starred in Air Force One, Sleeping Dogs Lie, The Covenant, The Vow, Into the Forest and The Nest. The actress also appeared on 24, ReGenesis, Crimes of Passion, Revenge, Saving Hope, Frankie Drake Mysteries, When Hope Calls and 2022’s Good Sam. Crewson starred on 2023’s limited series Pretty Hard Cases and Gray and appeared in two episodes of Tracker in 2024.
The A Killing Spree producer was married to Michael Murphy from 1988 to 2009. The exes share daughter Maggie and son John. Crewson moved on with Gary Logan, whom she wed in 2009.
Reinhold played Charlie’s stepdad, Neil Miller. The actor reprised the role in both Santa Clause sequels. The Delaware native later starred in The Hollow, Highly Functional, Bad Grandmas and Four Christmases and a Wedding. Reinhold reprised his role as Billy Rosewood in Beverly Hills Cop: Axel Foley, which premiered in 2024. He has also worked as a producer and director on projects such as 2006’s Be Still.
The Fast Times at Ridgemont High star was briefly married to Carrie Frazier from 1985 to 1986. He married screenwriter Amy Reinhold in 2000. The couple share one child.
The California native joined the Santa Clause franchise in 2002’s The Santa Clause 2, before reprising her role as Carol/Mrs. Claus in the third installment. Mitchell has since starred on Lost, V, Revolution, Once Upon a Time, Crossing Lines, FBI: International, First Kill and Outer Banks. The actress’ movie credits include Kristin’s Christmas Past, The Christmas Club, Witch Hunt, Queen Bees and When Time Got Louder. Mitchell reunited with her holiday movie family in 2022 for Disney+’s miniseries The Santa Clauses. The Loving alum made her producer debut in 2021 with Witch Hunt.
Mitchell split from Chris Soldevilla in 2013 after nine years of marriage.
Breslin joined the cast as No. 2 elf, Curtis, in The Santa Clause 2. He returned for the third film in 2006. He has since starred in The Cat in the Hat, Raising Helen, The Shaggy Dog, Stuck in Love, Some Kind of Hate, External Forces and 2024’s Don’t Say It and Desert Fiends. He also appeared on Teamo Supremo and Center of the Universe. Abigail Breslin’s older brother made his producer debut in 2000 with A Kids Becomes a Kid. He has since worked on Widget & Poptop and the 2018 short film External Forces.
Additionally, Spencer has his own record label, Acadian Recording Company, and released his debut album, Labor Day, in 2012. Four years later, he joined the band Broken Machine.
Mumy portrayed Charlie’s little sister, Lucy Miller, in both The Santa Clause 2 and The Santa Clause 3. The California native has since starred in the Cheaper by the Dozen movies, Santa Buddies and The Loud House Movie. She has also voiced characters on Lilo & Stitch: The Series, Catscratch, Powerpuff Girls Z, Higglytown Heroes, Chowder, Winx Club: Power of Believix and Bravest Warriors. Mumy has played Leni on Nickelodeon’s animated series The Loud House since 2015.
The actress, who is also an instructor for Barry’s Bootcamp in Los Angeles, announced in December 2021 that she is engaged to her longtime beau, Ben. The couple tied the knot in September 2023 and welcomed their first baby, son Nathan, two months later.
Hallmark Channel is known for its Christmas movies, but the network has expanded to Hanukkah-themed features as well.
In 2012, Hitched for the Holidays paid homage to several Hanukkah traditions, but it wasn’t until 2019 that Hallmark started making at least one Judaism-focused holiday movie for the season.
“I understand that everybody wants to see themselves represented on television, and I did too,” Double Holiday writer Nina Weinman told Variety in December 2019 of her combined Hanukkah and Christmas movie. “And we’re not going to be able to show the individual ways that every single person celebrates, and so I think that we accomplished showing Hanukkah in a really fun and interesting way.”
Both Double Holiday and Holiday Datefocused on Hanukkah festivities in 2019 before Love, Lights, Hanukkah! continued the tradition in 2020. The network has since given viewers a closer look at the religious celebration with 2021’s Eight Gifts of Hanukkah and 2022’s Hanukkah on Rye.
In 2023, Hallmark crossed the plot of Groundhog Day with Hanukkah in Round and Round. In the movie, a Jewish woman gets trapped reliving Hanukkah on a loop. She tries everything possible to get herself to the eighth day of the Festival of Lights while falling in love with someone who doesn’t remember meeting her each day.
Scroll down for a complete guide — and Us Weekly’s unofficial ranking — of Hallmark’s Hanukkah films:
Hanukkah isn’t the central focus of this movie, but it plays a big part in Rob (Joey Lawrence) and Julie’s (Emily Hampshire) love story. In the film, Rob and Jewish New Yorker Julie become fake boyfriend and girlfriend after meeting on a dating site. They accompany each other to their family’s holiday activities and catch feelings along the way.
Hanukkah Highlight: Although Rob fumbles through the Hanukkah prayers while pretending to be Jewish for Julie’s family, the moment is fun and light.
An unexpected romance begins between Rebecca (Carly Pope) and Chris (Kristoffer Polaha) after they are forced to plan their company’s holiday party. Rebecca brings her Jewish traditions to life while Chris tries to one-up her with his Christmas decorations, while they attempt to impress their boss and get the same promotion.
Hanukkah Highlight: While Rebecca and Chris begin as rivals, her family’s desire to welcome him with open arms as they celebrate Hanukkah gives viewers the warm and fuzzies.
Optometrist Sara (Inbar Lavi) goes on a journey of discovery after receiving a gift from an anonymous suitor on every night of Hanukkah. While trying to figure out who is sending the items, she turns to longtime friend Daniel (Jake Epstein) — who has always had feelings for her — for guidance.
Hanukkah Highlight: The intense dreidel game and fun unveiling of gifts each night with Sara’s chosen family are two memorable moments for fans.
After Brooke (Brittany Bristow) gets dumped right before the holidays, she hires actor Joel (Matt Cohen) to play her boyfriend during her family’s festivities. The ruse hits a speed bump when Brooke learns that Joel is Jewish. However, her family embraces Joel’s religion and incorporates his traditions into their celebrations as Brooke develops true feelings for her fake boyfriend.
Hanukkah Highlight: Joel teaching Brooke’s family how to light the menorah while singing was a feel-good scene.
Following the death of her adopted mother, Christina (Mia Kirshner) discovers she’s Jewish by taking a DNA test. Once she connects with her birth mother, Christina embraces her new religion and sparks and unlikely romance with David (Ben Savage) during the eight crazy nights.
Hanukkah Highlight: The magic of lighting the menorah is on full display in this feature — and it’s especially touching watching Christina take the lead for the first time.
Molly (Yael Grobglas) and Jacob (Jeremy Jordan) are paired up by a Jewish matchmaker, but once they learn their families own rival delis — and have a past connection — their romance is tested.
Hanukkah Highlight: Food is at the heart of this movie, and the latke recipe competition is a sweet nod to the holiday cooking tradition.
One the seventh night of Hanukkah, Rachel (Vic Michaelis) gets trapped in a time loop and relives her parents’ party over and over. After meeting Zach (Bryan Greenberg), who her grandmother calls a “nice boy,” Rachel tries to get him to help her break the cycle.
Hanukkah Highlight: Playing dreidel is at the center of this story, happening over and over, but it’s the matchmaking by Rachel’s grandma that pays homage to classic Jewish tradition.
One week before Hanukkah, corporate lawyer Tory (Stacey Farber) finds herself unemployed and starts questioning her entire career path. At the same time, Tory helps her grandmother track down the last box of coveted Hanukkah candles in Chicago. Tory’s search leads her to Jay (Daren Kagasoff), a doctor on a similar mission from his grandfather. After coming to an agreement over who should get the candles, Tory and Jay meet again at Rocky’s, an Old Town bar, where she agrees to work as a bartender for the eight nights of Hanukkah.
Hanukkah Highlight: While working at Rocky’s, Tory organizes a “Hanukkah on the Rocks” celebration for the community filled with quintessential holiday treats, creatively named cocktails and the nightly lighting of an antique menorah.
“Remember when I almost snapped your neck?” Amabile, 38, asked Johnson, 30, during the Saturday, December 16, episode of the “Bachelor Happy Hour” podcast.
Johnson didn’t skip a beat, revealing that the near accident happened during season 27’s Halloween episode.
“I almost killed you. I swear on my life, she almost died,” Amabile told listeners. “It was insane.”
Looking back, Amabile remembered messing up at the very end of their Frankenstein-themed Argentine tango. After only spinning Johnson 180 degrees, her body tensed up. Amabile could no longer extend his reach, so the professional dancer had to abort the backflip and flip forward to avoid hitting her head.
“Honestly, Joe, that was your best dance, and it was the ending move. We had just one lift,” Johnson reassured him, explaining, “He put his arm in the wrong spot. I was going to do a backflip. I don’t know how I did that.”
Amabile noted that his arms getting stuck “was the only thing I couldn’t do” in the routine or we’d mess up. “It was the only position I couldn’t lift her in,” he explained, teasing he was warned, “Just don’t do this” before taking the stage and “it was what I did.”
Johnson and Amabile were paired together for season 27 of the competition series, which aired in 2018. The duo were the eighth couple eliminated, exiting the show after the semifinals.
Although Johnson didn’t seem fazed by her near-catastrophic experience with Amabile, she revealed she was hoping to be partnered with a football player instead of another Bachelor Nation star after their time together.
Rumors surfaced earlier this year that Johnson was unhappy she was paired with Bachelor alum Joey Graziadei over an NFL player for season 33. (Danny Amendola joined the show as Witney Carson’s partner.)
“I’ve never had a football player. I’ve always wanted to partner with them because, again, they’re athletic, they are totally down to be coached and yelled at,” she explained. “It’s a lot of hours. So they’ve had that experience. And then also they’re usually pretty big and strong, so they can lift the girl all over the place.”
Amabile’s wife and cohost, Serena Pitt, teased that his mess up just proved why an NFL player would be a great partner moving forward.
“This is why she wants a football player,” Pitt, 27, joked. “She’s like, ‘They would never do that to me.’”
Johnson insisted that her time with both Amabile and Graziadei, 29, were equally fun, even if Amabile didn’t win. (Johnson and Graziadei won the Mirrorball trophy in November.)
“Our season was one of my favorite seasons,” Johnson said of Amabile. “Your dance experience wasn’t the best. I had so much fun every day in rehearsal with you because you were just so down.”
She gushed, “We laughed so hard. I feel like because there were no expectations dance-wise we were just like, ‘Let’s just go do this!’”
“Channing was the first person I thought of for Slater King, and I don’t know where that came from,” Kravitz, 36, explained during Variety’s Directors on Directors issue, published on Wednesday, December 18, referring to his character in Blink Twice.
Kravitz previously gushed about Tatum, 44, throughout their movie’s press tour, which took place before their October breakup. Looking back, she is still in awe of his skills — and purposely used them to add to his twisted character on screen.
“I knew that the character needed to be somebody who we think we trust, especially because you don’t believe Naomi [Ackie] (who played Frida) is getting on that plane if it’s someone who is immediately insidious,” Kravitz told Batman 2 director Matt Reeves during the sit-down.
She teased, “I wanted to weaponize his charisma,” noting that fans have “never seen” Tatum “do something like that.”
In Blink Twice, which premiered in August, tech billionaire Slater King (Tatum) invites cocktail waitress Frida (Ackie) to join him on a dream vacation. While on his private island, strange things transpire, and Frida begins to question not only Slater’s intentions but also her own reality.
To make sure that fear and mystery was clear from the jump, Kravitz said she leaned on Ackie. “I knew I needed someone’s face to be so expressive,” she said of the character. “Because so much about that character is about her face saying one thing and her eyes saying another, and that’s a hard thing to do.”
Channing Tatum in “Blink Twice.”
Kravitz, who made her directorial debut with this project, added that after meeting Ackie, 32, she “knew that she was capable.”
Kravitz’s complimentary remarks about both Blink Twice actors have become commonplace since it was a passion project for the filmmaker. The movie also brought Kravitz and Tatum together.
The following year, Tatum and Kravitz began their press tour for Blink Twice and showed off their chemistry with every appearance.
“It was really interesting, because we started as friends just working on a project that we both really believe in,” Tatum told Entertainment Tonight in August. “When things start in that creative place … you just respect each other’s point of view, you respect each other’s mind, each others’ experience in life.”
He explained, “I now don’t know what I would do creating without her. Everybody was like, ‘You sure you want to go create with your partner?’ But I actually suggest that to almost everyone now, ’cause you really get to know who that person is and what they are to you and who they are to you when you’re in the trenches.”
Tatum called “creating” his and Kravitz’s “love language” during an August appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.
Kravitz, meanwhile, revealed she thinks Tatum is worthy of an Academy Award for his role in the film while visiting The Drew Barrymore Show in September.
The following month, news broke that Tatum and Kravitz called off their engagement. “Wedding plans were looming, but neither of them were rushing to the altar,” a source exclusively told Us at the time.
The insider explained that Kravitz and Tatum’s dynamic shifted after they wrapped Blink Twice and were done promoting it. “They realized they were on different pages with what they wanted,” the source said. “It fizzled fast after their press tour wrapped.”
Even though their romance is over, Kravitz and Tatum have another joint project in the works. They are teaming up for Alpha Gang.
“They thrive while being on set together and will be able to get through it,” a separate source exclusively told Us in October. “Both of them are very professional and there is no bad blood between them. Film is their passion, so it could bring them back together.”
News broke that same month that Grande and Dalton Gomez called it quits after two years of marriage. Slater, meanwhile, filed for divorce from wife Lilly Jay shortly after his romance with Grande made headlines.
After keeping their relationship under the radar in summer 2023, Grande and Slater began stepping out together that September. “They’re a little dorky and [both] theater geeks at heart. She loves that about him. It’s mutual,” an insider exclusively told Usof the couple in November 2023. “Their relationship is blossoming. It’s effortless with zero drama.”
Scroll down to relive Grande and Slater’s relationship from the beginning:
December 2022
Slater was cast as Boq in the two-part Wicked movie shortly before filming began in London in December. Grande, meanwhile, was announced as Glinda in November 2021.
July 2023
Us confirmed that Grande and Gomez parted ways earlier in the year. An insider told Us at the time that they split in January after having issues “that they couldn’t resolve” before Grande went to London to shoot Wicked. The source noted that the “distance did not help” their marriage.
“Ariana and Ethan are dating,” a separate source told Us in July, noting that Grande and Slater were both separated when they sparked a romance. “Ariana and Ethan have only recently begun seeing each other but they have a lot of fun together and are enjoying each other’s company.”
Slater, who was married to Jay for four years, filed for divorce on July 26. The estranged couple share one son.
September 2023
The twosome stepped out for a Disneyland date on September 22, days after Grande filed for divorce from Gomez. “They went [to Disneyland] with a big group of friends including her mom and brother and are really happy,” a source exclusively told Us of the outing. “All of her friends love him.”
October 2023
The pair took the next step in their romance by starting to live together in the Big Apple, an insider exclusively told Us on October 4. “Ethan informed his friends and soon-to-be ex-wife that he’s living with Ariana full-time in New York,” the source shared, noting Grande and Slater are “really happy and really good for each other.”
Two days later, Us confirmed that Grande and Gomez settled their divorce. In the wake of the divorce, Grande and Slater became even more public with their relationship. The Grammy winner was spotted supporting Slater on October 31 at the first night of previews for his Broadway musical Spamalot in New York City.
In addition to spending time with their theater friends, Grande and the former SpongeBob SquarePants: The Broadway Musical performer have gotten to know each other’s loved ones. “Ethan and Ariana’s relationship is going very well, and they’re both very involved in each other’s lives,” an insider exclusively told Us on November 14. “Ethan’s met her family. And she’s met his family.”
Following their introduction, the source said, “Ariana’s entire family has given [Ethan] the stamp of approval,” adding that Grande’s inner circle “adores him and thinks that he’s a perfect match for her.”
December 2023
Grande continued to support Slater during his run in Spamalot by bringing her father, Ed Butera, to a Christmas Eve performance. Ahead of the new year, she seemingly addressed backlash to her and Slater’s romance in a lengthy Instagram Story post.
“I have never felt more pride or joy or love while simultaneously feeling so deeply misunderstood by people who don’t know me, who piece whispers together and make what they want out of me and their assumptions of my life,” she wrote at the time. “I have learned how much more important one of those things is than the other.”
January 2024
“Things between Ariana and Ethan have grown more serious in the past few months, and they’re pretty much inseparable,” a source told Us, adding, “Ariana deeply cares for Ethan and absolutely sees a future with him. She’s looking forward to a fresh start in the new year and can’t wait to see how things continue to grow for them.”
Another insider told Us that same month that Slater informed his ex-wife of his and Grande’s romance days before news of their relationship broke. A third source revealed that Grande and Slater are “very much in love” and “weren’t careful” about hiding their feelings while filming Wicked, even holding hands between takes.
February 2024
“I feel like we don’t need to go into any specifics, but, of course, there’s like an insatiable frustration, inexplicable, hellish feeling with watching people, misunderstand the people you love and you and anything,” Grande said of her relationship on an episode of “The Zach Sang Show” on the Amazon Music channel on Twitch.
She also joked that releasing her album Eternal Sunshine in the midst of drama surrounding her love life was the “absolute worst idea,” adding, “I’m so nervous, because pieces of it touch on things that are real and then pieces of it are also just, like, part of the concept. So, what is that separation?”
March 2024
Grande released her seventh studio album, Eternal Sunshine, which featured many songs speculated to be about her split from Gomez and relationship with Slater. “Ariana thinks these songs will provide a lot of insight for her fans,” a source told Us at the time. “[It’s] her side of the story regarding Dalton and Ethan.”
The album’s lead single, “Yes, And?,” appeared to call out haters directly. “Don’t comment on my body, do not reply,” Grande sings in the track’s bridge. “Your business is yours and mine is mine / Why do you care so much whose — I ride?”
April 2024
Grande and Slater both attended CinemaCon 2024 in Las Vegas to promote Wicked, after which they were spotted packing on PDA while having dinner at Nobu Caesars Palace. Grande was seen leaning in to give her boyfriend a kiss, while Slater lovingly placed his hand on the back of her chair.
June 2024
Grande and Slater made a rare public appearance at the Stanley Cup Final in Sunrise, Florida. They wore matching Florida Panthers jerseys.
October 2024
GQ reported that Slater noticeably blushed when asked about falling in love with Grande on the set of Wicked.
“That’s a really sweet question,” Slater said. “That’s really nice of you to ask. That’s a really sweet question.”
He continued: “Obviously, it was a really super big year, and I think there was something that was really difficult about things in your private life being commented on and looked at by the public. There were a lot of big changes in private lives that were really happening, so it’s really hard to see people who don’t know anything about what’s happening commenting on it and speculating, and then getting things wrong about the people you love. So just to address that part of it, that feels really hard.”
However, it wasn’t all bad. “But, of course, it was an amazing year and a really beautiful thing, and I’m just really excited,” Slater concluded.
November 2024
Slater hyped up his girlfriend while promoting Wicked on The Jennifer Hudson Show. “She’s a comedy genius,” Slater gushed. “She’s so funny. I mean, she’s amazing in this film.”
He added, “I’m just really, really proud of Ari and the work she’s done on this. She’s poured herself into it. I’m really proud that I got to be there for that part of it, and I’m really excited to be there for this next step of it when the world gets to see the amazing thing that she did.”
Later that month, the pair made their unofficial red carpet debut at the Los Angeles premiere of Wicked. Though they didn’t stand for press line photos as a duo, Grande and Slater posed together in group shots. In a sweet candid moment, Grande was photographed lovingly adjusting her boyfriend’s tie as he smiled in return.
December 2024
Grande showed her support for Slater in a rare Instagram comment. After he posted photos from a shoot with Schön! Magazine, she wrote, “the Buster Keaton of today !” and “!!! ♡.”
Not even a Doggy Parton-themed party can save Taylor Ann Green from an awkward encounter with Shep Rose’s new girlfriend in the upcoming episode of Southern Charm.
“I would feel more comfortable if [Shep] was like, ‘Oh, I want to introduce you to someone,’” Taylor, 30, tells pal Tyler of her ex-boyfriend in Us Weekly’s exclusive sneak peek of the Thursday, December 19, episode.
Taylor notes Shep, 44, is “being awkward about it” and leaving it up to her to go up to his new girlfriend, Sienna, at the group’s puppy party. (Taylor is wearing a cowboy hat and leather fringe jacket as a nod to country star Dolly Parton, while Shep opts for a denim shirt, red bandana and trucker hat.)
“I don’t care [about her],” Taylor claims to Tyler as the two discuss how she should introduce herself. She notes that when it comes to Shep’s relationships, she’s “going to be a lot more civil and kind to the person that [he’s] seeing than [he is] to anyone I’m seeing.”
Taylor Ann Green, Shep Rose.
When Tyler gets summoned over toward Sienna, Taylor uses it as her chance to break the ice. “Hello, I’m Taylor by the way,” she says, going in for a hug.
“Nice to meet you. I’ve heard so much about you,” Sienna replies, which makes Taylor a little nervous.
“Oh, thank you. Well, hopefully good things. Were they good?” Taylor asks, to which Sienna responds, “Mostly.”
The awkward exchange leaves a sour taste in Taylor’s mouth, which she makes clear during one of her confessional interviews. “I mean, do you know the guy who you’re dating?” Taylor quips while talking to the cameras after the bash. “I don’t know what story you heard, but he was the one who was cheating on me.”
After the breakup, Taylor and Shep reunited to film the season 8 Southern Charm reunion where she accused her ex of sleeping with “300 whores.” While Shep apologized for hurting Taylor with his wandering eye, the issue of cheating didn’t go away.
During season 9, Taylor and Shep got into a fight during a group trip, and she accused him of being “jealous and controlling” toward her, which he denied. “Do you like poking the bear?” Shep asked amid the fight, which aired in November 2023. “Do you like cheating on me?” Taylor fired back.
Shep mumbled, “Sometimes it was fun,” which caused the entire group to go off on him. Shep quickly denied saying it was “fun” to sleep around, but Taylor threw her glass of wine at him and stormed off.
Despite their rocky past, Shep and Taylor both entered season 10 of Southern Charm in new relationships. Taylor exclusively told Us in October 2023 that she’s dating Gaston Rojas, who made his debut on the series earlier this month.
Shep, meanwhile, revealed in the season 10 premiere that he is dating Sienna, whom he met in the Bahamas. According to the season trailer, Shep’s apparent “love” of the former Miss Bahamas doesn’t sit well with his castmates.
Taylor, however, exclusively told Us this month that she tries to stay out of Shep’s romantic entanglements this season.
“I feel very far removed from that. It’s something that I just kind of look at and go, ‘I’m glad that’s not me.’ And I mean that respectfully,” she confessed. “But I’m in such a happy place where I go, ‘Everything does happen for a reason.’ I’m very happy with the person that I’m with. And so seeing that I’m just going, ‘I’m just glad it’s not me.’”
Southern Charm airs on Bravo Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET.
AOL’s instant messaging might be a thing of the past, but You’ve Got Mail has never gone out of style.
The 1998 rom-com stars Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks as rival bookstore owners. Ryan’s character, Kathleen Kelly, owned The Shop Around the Corner, while Hanks’ Joe Fox founded the Fox Books chain, which was putting her out of business. With the help of online chatting, “Shopgirl” and “NY152” fell in love without knowing who they were falling for.
After starring alongside one another in Joe Versus the Volcano and Sleepless in Seattle, Hanks and Ryan teamed up again to make You’ve Got Mail and hoped it would be another box-office smash — and it was.
“You never know if that magic chemistry is going to strike again,” former Warner Bros. cochair Terry Semel told Entertainment Weekly in December 1998 ahead of the film’s release. “But two people falling in love — especially these two people — has international appeal. If there is such a thing as a perfect couple, Tom and Meg are it. They’re like Mr. and Mrs. World.”
Scroll down to see what the cast of the ’90s film is up to now — including stars Parker Posey, Dave Chappelle, Chris Messina and Greg Kinnear.
Hanks followed up his role as Fox Books founder Joe Fox by starring in Saving Private Ryan, The Green Mile, Cast Away, Catch Me If You Can, Bride of Spies, The Post He has also acted in the Toy Story franchise as Woody and played the leading man in The Da Vinci Code, Charlie Wilson’s War, Captain Phillips, Saving Mr. Banks and Sully. His television works includes Band of Brothers, The Pacific and Masters of the Air.
The Oscar winner is also a writer, director and producer. Some of his biggest production credits include Band of Brothers, My Big Fat Greek Wedding, Big Love, The Nineties and A Man Called Ove.
Hanks has been married to Rita Wilson since 1988, and they share two sons, Chet and Truman. Hanks is also father to son Colin and daughter Elizabeth from his first marriage. In 2017, Hanks published a collection of short stories inspired by his typewriter pieces called Uncommon Type.
Posey played Joe’s girlfriend, Patricia Eden. The actress has since starred in Josie and the Pussycats, The Sweetest Thing, Laws of Attraction, Café Society, The Architect and Elsewhere. The Maryland native appeared on a few episodes of Boston Legal before landing roles on Granite Flats, Skylanders Academy and Lost in Space. She is slated to star in the upcoming third season of The White Lotus. Posey has starred on Broadway in Taller Than a Dwarf and The Realistic Joneses.
In 2018, Posey wrote You're on an Airplane: A Self-Mythologizing Memoir. A year later, the actress starred in the scripted podcast “Hunted” from Endeavor Audio and Dick Wolf’s Wolf Entertainment.
The Indiana native portrayed Kathleen’s boyfriend and writer for The New York Observer, Frank Navasky. He then starred in Someone Like You, We Were Soldiers, Little Miss Sunshine, Invincible, The Last Song, Strange But True and Misbehavior. The Oscar nominee appeared on The Kennedys, Rake and House of Cards. Kinnear has also stepped behind the camera. He was an executive producer and writer on Later and both producer and director on Phil. The actor made his Broadway debut in To Kill a Mockingbird in January 2022 after being delayed two years amid the coronavirus pandemic.
He has been married to model Helen Labdon since 1999. The pair share three daughters.
After playing Shop Around the Corner assistant George Pappas, Zahn starred in Saving Silverman, Riding in Cars With Boys, Daddy Day Care, Dallas Buyers Club, Where’d You Go Bernadette and the Diary of a Wimpy Kid franchise. The Minnesota native played Davis McAlary on Treme, Clark Edwards on Mind Games, Jude Ellis on The Crossing, Mark Mossbacher in season 1 of The White Lotus and voiced Dude on The Healing Powers of Dude.
Zahn married Robyn Peterman in 1994. The couple share two children. They also started a community theater in Kentucky, which Zahn occasionally stars in.
Burns played bookstore worker Christina Plutzker in the film. She has since been seen in the Miss Congeniality films, Two Weeks Notice, Bewitched, Valley of the Sun, Manchester by the Sea and Brave New Jersey. The Chicago native’s TV credits include Twenty Good Years, Bored to Death, Save Me, Blindspot and The Politician. She has also appeared in off-Broadway plays, including Middletown, Dinner With Friends and Peace for Mary Frances.
Burns married actor Ajay Naidu in 2012.
The comedian portrayed Joe’s friend and coworker Kevin Jackson. He has since starred in Half-Baked, Blue Streak, Undercover Brother and A Star Is Born. The Emmy winner wrote, produced and hosted his own series, Chappelle’s Show, from 2003 to 2006. He has also written and produced numerous TV specials, including Dave Chappelle: The Bird Revelation and Dave Chappelle: 8:46. He won a Grammy for Best Comedy Album in 2018.
The Washington D.C. native married his wife, Elaine, in 2001. The pair share two sons and a daughter.
After playing Joe’s dad, Nelson Fox, Coleman voiced Principal Prickly in the Recess series and its subsequent films. The Texas native starred in Inspector Gadget, Where the Red Fern Grows, Domino and Rules Don’t Apply. Coleman also played Burton Fallin on The Guardian, Dr. Bart Jacobs on Heartland, Commodore Louis Kaestner on Boardwalk Empire and appeared as a guest star on Ray Donovan and NCIS.
Coleman shared four children with his second wife, Jean Hale. He died of cardiac arrest due to dysphagia and heart failure at age 92 in May 2024.
The Golden Globe winner played bookstore worker Birdie Conrad. Stapleton voiced Mrs. Jenkins in Pocahontas 2: Journey to a New World and appeared in Chance of a Lifetime the same year she starred in You’ve Got Mail. The All in the Family alum then appeared in Baby, Pursuit of Happiness and Like Mother Like Son: The Strange Story of Sante and Kenny Kimes before stepping back from acting in 2001. She was inducted into the American Theatre Hall of Fame and the Television Hall of Fame in 2002.
The New York native died in May 2013 at the age of 90. She is survived by her two children.
Scaperrotta made his acting debut as Joe’s 4-year-old half-brother, Matt Fox, the same year he appeared in One True Thing. He was then seen in the Hollow Man before landing the role of Detective Elliott Stabler’s son, Dickie Stabler, on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.
Hirsh, for her part, played Joe’s 11-year-old aunt, Annabelle Fox. The actress then starred in Disney Channel’s The Ultimate Christmas Present, Speak, Bad Behavior and The Last Dinner Party. The Nebraska native had recurring roles on JAG, Flight 29 Down, ER and Sloppy Tacos. After stepping away from acting, Hirsch bought Hole Doughnuts in Asheville, North Carolina. She married Ryan Martin in 2013 and describes herself as a “yurt-dweller” on Instagram. The pair share two children.
The actors reunited in 2018 to talk about their childhood roles in You’ve Got Mail on the Today show.
Messina appeared toward the end of the film as a Fox Books employee who does not know the difference between Ballet Shoes and Skating Shoes. He has since starred in Made of Honor, Julie & Julia, An Invisible Sign, Argo, Cake, The Secrets We Keep, Birds of Prey, I Care a Lot and Air. His TV roles include Six Feet Under, Damages, The Newsroom, The Mindy Project (which paid homage to You’ve Got Mail in numerous episodes), Sharp Objects and The Sinner.
The New York native was married to actress Rosemarie DeWitt from 1995 to 2006. He has been with film producer Jennifer Todd since 2007 and the couple share two sons.
7 spicy margs drank on night 1. 6 great friends 5 nights @moonpalacecancun 4 nights of @phish 3 nights @etereoauberge 2 nights of 
