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Best-Selling Author’s Classic Novel Ranked No. 1 ‘Best Weekend Read’
The Picture of Dorian Gray, poet and renowned Irish author Oscar Wilde’s most celebrated work, tops the list of Best Weekend Reads on Goodreads.
A Gothic horror fantasy set in Victorian-era England, Widle’s only novel unfurls through his titular antihero, who becomes so infatuated with his own portrait that he makes a Faustian pact ensuring he’ll stay as perfectly handsome as he is in the painting staring back at him.
View this post on InstagramAs the years go by, Dorian indeed remains youthful and full of vigor; his portrait, however, absorbs every immoral act he commits, slowly transforming into a “hideous record of evil” Dorian keeps locked away from view.
The novel, first published in its extended form in 1891, is seeing renewed interest 135 years later, with social media exploring theDorian Gray Syndrome, or the fear of aging, in an era of filtered perfection. Some are even going so far as to claim Wilde predicted Instagram.
Meanwhile, Bridgerton’s Luke Thompson brought the haunting narrative back into the spotlight last month with a performance reading of the novel for Channel 4 in the U.K.
“I’ve always been curious about why stories stick around,” Thompson told Radio Timesabout the novel. “I’d heard about this book, and 140 years later, it’s still provocative and unsettling, and still thrills people.”
https://youtube.com/shorts/g8KGvaFHVzc?si=yldEVZbFNDvf2Hf8
He continued, “This story asks: What if what’s moral is not as important as what’s beautiful. It’s a pretty wild thought to entertain, when we are so obsessed with justifying what’s right, wrong, productive, healthy, or useful, and we’re not comfortable with beauty just for the hell of it. We say it’s superficial. A part of us can’t stand that beauty doesn’t need explaining, that it’s profound, maybe more profound than morals. This thriller takes that idea to its craziest limit.”
At a swift 272 pages, it's the perfect page-turner to finish over a weekend.
The Picture of Dorian Gray is available at bookshop.org.
Related: Best-Selling Author's Novel Ranked No. 1 Most Addictive Book on Goodreads
1987 Classic Comedy Starring Michael J. Fox Became a Box Office Hit 39 Years Ago Today
It's been exactly 39 years since The Secret of My Success debuted in theaters, reinforcing Michael J. Foxas a box office draw. The wacky workplace comedy came two years after blockbusters Back to the Futureand Teen Wolf turned Fox into a global star and despite mixed reviews, the film was a major success for Universal Pictures.
With a $12 million budget, The Secret of My Success may have been just another rags-to-riches comedy cookie-cutter comedy but it was a box office hit, bringing in $111 million worldwide.
The film's logline describes the Fox-led film as "a talented young man can't get an executive position without rising through the ranks, so he comes up with a shortcut, which also benefits his love life."
Other films released in the late '80s and early '90s often had the same vibe as The Secret of My Success, cashing in on the "making it big in the city" trope like Working Girl, Trading Places, For Love or Money, and Bright Lights, Big City.
While other movies were more successful, there are plenty of arguments online about why The Secret of My Success is "the ultimate '80s movie." In a Reddit thread, users made their case, pointing out that aside from starring Fox, who was the '80s "it guy," it also had "more 80's montages than you can shake a stick at."
Possibly the only thing more '80s than the movie is the soundtrack that went with it. The title song by Night Ranger is a synth-heavy rock jam with saxophones, a keyboard and flying V electric guitars.
Then there was Pat Benatar's "Sometimes the Good Guys Finish First," Roger Daltrey's "The Price of Love," and Bananarama's "Riskin' a Romance," to name a few.
McDonald's CEO Gets Dragged Again Over Another Cringeworthy Food Video
You'd think after going viral for all the wrong reasons, McDonald's CEO Chris Kempczinski would have his on-camera eating game on point. That’s not the case.
The fast-food executive made headlines a few weeks back when a video of him taking a single, comically small bite of McDonald's new Big Arch burger went massively viral. The moment was so widely mocked that even the CEOs of Burger King and Wendy's got in on the joke.
But then, Kempczinski himself acknowledged the fallout in a new interview with the Wall Street Journal, revealing his own kid called him out. "I got a call from one of my kids and they said, 'Dad, you've gone viral and not in a good way,'" he told WSJ columnist Tim Higgins in an interview shared on Tuesday, April 7.
In the original clip, Kempczinski took one tiny bite of the burger (which he notably referred to as a "product") before holding it up to the camera and saying, "Mmm, that is so good, that's a big bite for a Big Arch." The internet was not impressed.
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So when the WSJ interview gave him a chance at redemption, Kempczinski seemed ready. When Higgins asked for his advice on eating on camera, the CEO laughed it off. "Well, I'd say the biggest thing is just dive right in," he said. "I'm looking forward to taking a nice bite out of this chicken nugget."
But the nugget bite that followed didn't exactly win anyone over.
The Journal posted the clip to social media and the comments came fast.
“The nugget bite was worse than the burger one,” one user commented.
Another stated, “He still looks like he does not want to eat his own ‘Products.’”
Another noted, “He hates his food - 😂 - he can’t fake it 😂.”
On a more appetizing note, McDonald's is generating serious buzz over new McCrispy Strip flavors being tested across select locations. Popular food account Snackolator has been tracking the tests closely, noting that the chain is experimenting with six flavors including Sweet Chili, Teriyaki, Kickin' BBQ, Spicy Chili Garlic, Garlic Parm, and Sweet Asian.
No nationwide rollout has been confirmed yet—but if and when it happens, here's hoping someone hands the CEO a strip and lets the cameras roll.
How Rich Is Your Favorite Audiobook Narrator? Ranking the 15 Highest-Paid Readers in 2026
There's something about that smooth, clear voice that comes out of your headphones the second you hit "play" on an audiobook. If you resonate with that feeling, you can thank audiobook narrators—the behind-the-scenes stars of some of your favorite books.
Since they're responsible for making some of the best novels sound even better out loud, it makes sense to be curious about how much they're actually compensated for that. Pinpointing exactly how much audiobook narrators make for each book isn't as clear-cut as you might think, though.
According to SideHustles.com, many professionals are actually paid per hour or work on a freelance basis independently. ZipRecruiter reports that typical professional audiobook narrators make an average annual pay of $64,756. On the other hand, some figures at the top of their game are paid for their star quality and expertise, somewhat differing from regular audiobook readers as they're set in a league of their own.
Have you always wondered about the average salary of your favorite narrators? According to Celebrity Net Worth, here's a list showcasing the 15 highest-paid audiobook narrators in 2026, starting with the lowest ranking.
Related: How Rich Is Your Favorite Writer? Ranking the 15 Highest-Paid Authors in 2026
The 15 Highest-Paid Audiobook Narrators in 2026krisanapong detraphiphat/Getty Images
15. Christy Carlson RomanoAny Disney Channel fans might remember Christy Carlson Romano as a staple on iconic shows, from Ren Stevens on Even Stevens to being the voice of Kim Possible in, well, Kim Possible. Now, she narrates audiobooks like her own memoir, Once Upon a Trainwreck: The Fall and Rise of a Child Star, and Threads of Blue by Suzanne LaFleur. She also narrates children's books, all available on Audible and Amazon. According to Celebrity Net Worth, she's worth about $250,000.
14. Wil WheatonWil Wheaton isn't just known for being a writer and actor, but he's also narrated audiobooks in the sci-fi and fantasy genres. Usually collaborating with Skyboat Media, Wheaton is known for narrating books such as Ready Player One—which was just deemed the "Greatest Audiobook of All Time" according to Goodreads—as well as his own published books, like Just a Geek and Still Just a Geek. His net worth is around $1 million, per Celebrity Net Worth.
13. Bronson PinchotBronson Pinchot is an actor who you might recall as Balki Bartokomous on ABC's Perfect Strangers. When he's not acting, you can find him reading some of your favorite books to you. Pinchot is worth around $2 million and has narrated lots of favorites, such as Stephen King classics like The Eyes of the Dragon and A Man on the Moon. He's also narrated lots of titles from Nicholas Sansbury Smith's series, mostly found on platforms such as Kobo and Audiobooks.com.
Related: There Are Over 20 Stephen King Adaptations in the Works—What You Need to Know
12. Paul F. TompkinsPaul F. Tompkins is best known for entertaining audiences with his work on programs like BoJack Horseman. The comedian doesn't keep the jokey nature just on screen, though. Tompkins, who's worth $2 million, has also narrated funny titles such as Stinker Lets Loose by Mike Sacks and James Taylor Johnston—an Audible Original—as well as A Load of Hooey by Bob Odenkirk, which is a humorous fiction collection.
11. Richard ArmitageWorth nearly $2 million, Richard Armitage is a noteworthy English narrator, author and actor. He has narrated lots of thrillers and classic titles, and he's most known for his deep-set voice and smooth tone. His narrations include Black Notice by Joy Ellis, as well as David Hewson's The Medici Murders and Romeo and Juliet: A Novel. The highly acclaimed narrator won a 2019 Audio Award for Best Fiction for his work on narrating The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris.
Related: 25 Best Short Books You Can Easily Read in a Day, According to Librarians
10. Pablo SchreiberPablo Schreiber's net worth sits at around $3 million, and while he's most famous for his stage and screen work, the Canadian-American actor is a great audiobook narrator with lots of titles under his belt. When you're not watching him on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Schreiber has narrated tons of audiobooks, including popular titles like American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis, The Call of the Wild by Jack London and Daisy Jones & The Six, where he's part of the full audio production cast.
9. Michael BeckMichael Beck's finest work emerges from '80s classics like his role as Swan in The Warriors and as Sonny Malone in Xanadu. But the actor has also narrated a myriad of titles, especially those by American author John Grisham. Those include books like The Widow, The Guardians, The Boys from Biloxi and The Reckoning, to name a few. He's worth around $4 million.
8. Scott BrickScott Brick isn't just an audiobook narrator, but an award-winning one at that. The actor and writer has narrated over 800 books, for which he's known for doing a legendary job. The highly acclaimed narrator has won over 65 AudioFile Earphones Awards and has received multiple Audie Awards, according to his website. He even received a Grammy nomination for the 2011 recording of The Mark of Zorro. Titles he's narrated include books like Washington: A Life, Moneyball, Dune and Cloud Atlas. Brick is worth $4 million, per SuccessTitan.com.
7. Peter RiegertPeter Riegert, an actor who has played roles such as Donald "Boon" Schoenstein in Animal House and Lt. Mitch Kellaway in The Mask, is especially known for his audiobook narration delivery and precision. He's received critical acclaim for titles he's narrated, which include The Yiddish Policemen's Union by Michael Chabon and Amazing Fantastic Incredible by Stan Lee, Peter David and Colleen Doran. He's worth around $4 million.
6. Imelda StauntonAn iconic theatre performer, there's nothing that Imelda Staunton can't do. The actress and singer is worth around $5 million. Considering she did such an excellent job portraying the infamous Dolores Umbridge in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix with such a particular voice, it's no wonder she's a good audiobook narrator too.
She has been praised as an audiobook narrator for some time, mainly narrating children's titles. Her narrations include her work on notable books such as The Gruffalo, The Snail and the Whale, Zog, and The Gruffalo's Child. She often includes things like sound effects and fun songs in her narrations.
Related: 45 Best Nonfiction Books of All Time, According to Librarians
5. Will PattonWill Patton was once on our screens for films like The Client, Armageddon, Gone in 60 Seconds and Remember the Titans, but his work as an audiobook narrator is perhaps even more notable. His narration won him the Audie Award for Best Male Narrator, according to Penguin Random House, as well as several other nominations at the show. He even recently won a 2025 Audio Award for Short Stories/Collections for You Like It Darker by Stephen King. He's worth $7 million.
4. Gates McFaddenYou may know actress Gates McFadden for her screen work, playing Dr. Beverly Crusher in Star Trek: The Next Generation and subsequent Star Trek films and sequel series. But she has lent her voice to other various projects as well, including her work narrating the documentary series The Center Seat: 55 Years of Star Trek. In terms of audiobooks, she's narratedMETAtropolis: Cascadia, which is a collection of interconnected stories by multiple writers, and Fan Fiction by Brent Spiner. She's worth $7 million.
3. John SlatteryJohn Slattery has been in legendary roles on the small screen, best known for his work as Roger Sterling in AMC's Mad Men. His work as an audiobook narrator is also highly acclaimed, where he's narrated titles such as Duma Key by Stephen King and Ernest Hemingway's A Farewell to Arms. His net worth is around $8 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.
2. Jim DaleThe iconic English actor and director has received high praise for his work on numerous audiobooks. Some of the books he's voiced are huge favorites in the literary world, which is what makes him such a memorable narrator. He's narrated seven Harry Potter books, as well as The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern. Worth around $10 million, Dale has also set two Guinness World Records. As Macmillan reported, one is for making up 134 different voices in a single book, and another for taking up the first six spots in the Top Ten Audiobooks of America list in 2005 for his work on the Harry Potter books' narrations.
1. Taron EgertonComing out on top, Taron Egerton is perhaps one of the most well-known voices in the audiobook narration sphere. You read that right: he's not just a well-known movie actor, with lead roles in the Kingsman movie series, the Elton John biopic Rocketman and more. The actor and acclaimed narrator received an AudioFile Earphones Award back in 2020 for contributing to the audio drama of The Sandman by Neil Gaiman, and was also a finalist the same year for Me: Elton John Official Autobiography. He's worth $12 million, Celebrity Net Worth reported.
Up Next:
Related: 11 Best Audiobooks on Spotify, According to Librarians
Steve Buscemi and His New Wife Are the Cutest Red Carpet Couple Out There
Steve Buscemi and his new wife, Karen Ho, are currently our favorite couple on the red carpet.
Buscemi, 68, who is known for roles ranging from Reservoir Dogs and Fargo to Billy Madison and Armageddon, recently appeared as Barry Dort, the new principal of Nevermore Academy, in Season 2 of the beloved Netflix series Wednesday opposite Jenna Ortega. But in real life, the talented star looks happier than ever. Buscemi worked the red carpet with Ho at the New York premiere of Lorne this week, and we're thrilled to see the smiles on their faces.
Photo by Theo Wargo on Getty Images
What Has Steve Buscemi Said About Losing His First Wife?It’s Buscemi’s real-life challenges that make his journey so relatable. The actor recently opened up about losing his first wife in 2019 and his decision to remarry last year. In an interview with the New York Times back in August, the typically quiet star spoke candidly about the loss of his wife of more than 30 years, filmmaker and artist Jo Andres, who died in 2019 of a rare bowel cancer.
During the interview, Buscemi’s eyes welled up with tears while speaking about his late wife. Buscemi said he still owned the Brooklyn brownstone they lived in, “but it’s not right for me anymore, you know? It’s just — it’s too big.”
The actor also noted that “grief is not linear” and that it can coexist with happy times.
How Did Steve Buscemi Find Love Again?Buscemi has found some of those happy times, too. In 2025, Buscemi remarried. But instead of sticking with someone in the entertainment industry, his wife doesn’t work in it. She doesn’t even share the same taste as him, with Buscemi noting that “her tastes are totally different from mine in movies,” he told the Times. The couple recently found a new place in Manhattan together.
The piece also noted that Buscemi has served as a guiding light for his costars. Ortega told the publication how much of an inspiration he is to her.
“Without trying to be or in any sort of patronizing ways, he is a great source of wisdom and advice and life lessons,” she explained.
How Long Have Steve Buscemi and Karen Ho Been Together?Steve Buscemi and Karen Ho officially tied the knot in early 2025. They currently reside in Manhattan.
Related: Steve Buscemi, 68, Hits the Red Carpet With His New Wife and Looks So Happy
Walmart’s ‘Pretty’ $40 7-Piece Floral Comforter Set Is Spring-Ready With Major Cottagecore Charm
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Itching to give your bedroom a spring refresh? You can’t go wrong with a matching comforter set. It ensures that your bed looks cohesive while saving you the time and money you would've spent buying separate pieces. If you’re looking for a set that exudes spring vibes yet is versatile enough for year-round use, Walmart’s bestselling Smuge 7-Piece Floral Comforter Set is a fantastic option.
Right now, you can snag this comforter set on sale for less than $45. Normally $71, the full and queen sizes are marked down to just $40 in six styles. That means you’re getting each piece for less than $6! It’s also available in king size sets, which normally retail between $50 and $76, but are now on sale for only $45. If you just want a comforter and matching pillow shams, it’s also available in a three-piece set in full, queen, and king sizes. starting at just $29.
Smuge 7-Piece Floral Comforter Set, From $40 (was $71) at Walmart Shop at WalmartThis set comes with everything you need to make your bed look effortlessly put-together, including one comforter, one fitted sheet, one flat sheet, two pillowcases, and two pillow shams. All the styles available feature dainty flowers but vary slightly from each other. Some designs come in vibrant colors that’ll make your bed pop, while others have muted hues that’ll seamlessly blend in with the rest of your room.
While the pillow shams and comforter feature eye-catching floral patterns, the pillowcases and sheets feature a solid color to help balance the set out. Depending on the style you choose, you’ll either get green, purple, light purple, gray, or white versions.
Adorned with various types of flowers in all kinds of shapes and hues, this comforter set radiates major cottagecore charm. It’ll instantly make your bedroom feel spring-ready and bring some lively and cheerful energy to your space. The comforter also has a reversible design if you want to switch things up. You can flip it around to the solid color side whenever you want to give your bed a minimalist aesthetic.
Smuge 7-Piece Floral Comforter Set, $40 (was $71) at Walmart Shop at WalmartThis comforter set is made of 100% microfiber, which is a great alternative to down filling. It’s made to mimic the same fluffy feel as down feathers, but more low-maintenance and hypoallergenic, which is ideal for those with allergies or sensitive skin. Several shoppers noted that the fabric feels cozy and soft to the touch.
Designed for all-season use, the comforter is filled with 240 GSM microfiber. While it’ll undoubtedly keep you warm, it’s also breathable and lightweight, which will prevent you from overheating and sweating in the middle of the night. The fitted sheet has 360-degree elastic all around the opening, allowing it to stay securely in place. It has deep pockets and can fit mattresses up to 14 inches thick.
“This is one of the softest comforters I've ever had,” one shopper raved. Another described this comforter set as “absolutely beautiful and so comfy.” A third mentioned that it’s “bright and pretty” and commented that it “really brightened up” their bedroom.
As a bonus, it’s really easy to care for this comforter set. Whenever it’s time for a refresh, you can just toss everything into the washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold water. Afterwards, toss it in the dryer and tumble dry it on low heat. The comforter boasts subtle stitching all around the fabric, creating a diamond quilted pattern that prevents the filling from moving around and clumping up.
Shop More Deals- Cookey 2-Pack of Down Alternative Pillows, $32 (was $69) at Walmart
- Moonlight 3-Piece Scalloped Quilt Set, From $15 (was $32) at Walmart
- Gped Fleece Throw Blanket, $14 (was $24) at Walmart
Ready to effortlessly elevate the aesthetic of your bedroom while transforming your bed into a cozy sanctuary? If so, don’t hesitate to head to Walmart and snag the Smuge 7-Piece Floral Comforter Set while it’s on sale for as low as $40!
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Natasha Lyonne Fills in a Few Blanks About Being Removed From That Flight
Season 3 Euphoria actress Natasha Lyonne already shared one message about being removed from that Delta Airline flight the other night, but today, she has more to say about the incident at the LA airport. She's slowly filling in some of the blanks about what went down aboard that redeye flight bound for New York and what led to her being escorted off the airplane.
Just as she did with her first message, Lyonne took to X again with her latest information. It's just a little hard to tell where the comedy queen is kidding and where she's being serious. She says she took a prescription sleeping pill once on board the plane, explaining she needed rest before arriving in NY and heading directly to the set of The Drew BarrymoreShow for taping.
"Indeed, I took a Lunesta once seated," Lyonne writes on X, "to ensure some shut eye on the Delta One red eye flight to NYC. Boarded seamlessly with just a backpack and sneakers, eager for a nap. Plan was to be bushy tailed & beauty rested, as I was meant to head straight to glam for a slot with our beloved @DrewBarrymore, upon landing."
Related: Nikki Glaser Encourages Her Boyfriend to Have Hookups: ‘It’s Just What I’m Into’
But then the actress adds that she was detained by ICE (aka, the U.S.'s Immigration and Customs Enforcement).
She says, "Was looking forward to seeing Drew & an in depth convo, but I guess ICE had other plans & I was detained instead. Sign of the times, I guess. Thanks for all the love and support. Never had a problem with @Delta or @TSA before. Heart is with our unpaid @TSA workers. Apologies to any travelers who were delayed."
Thanks for the great reporting, @enews. Indeed, I took a Lunesta once seated, to ensure some shut eye on the Delta One red eye flight to NYC. Boarded seamlessly with just a backpack and sneakers, eager for a nap. Plan was to be bushy tailed & beauty rested, as I was meant to head… https://t.co/gdRIKJ41Lt
— natasha lyonne (@nlyonne) April 10, 2026Presumably, Lyonne is referring to ICE agents who have been deployed to assist in many U.S. airports due to TSA staffing shortages during the government shutdown. However, most recent reports say ICE is not at LAX. Do with that information what you will.
The only one who really knows what's going on with Natasha Lyonne is Natasha Lyonne. As for the rest of us, we'll just have to guess the best we can—or we could find something else to do, I guess. But we love Natasha Lyonne and sometimes we just can't help it.
1952 ‘Miserable’ Film Became Hollywood’s Happiest Movie of All Time
When it rains, it pours. And the sky opened up with irony overSingin’ in the Rain.
Released on April 11, 1952, the movie musical was an instant commercial and critical hit, and would go on to be hailed as one of Hollywood’s happiest films, despite a notoriously grueling, and often miserable, production behind the scenes.
View this post on InstagramStarring Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds, and Donald O’Connor, the Golden Age classic follows a 1920s silent film star (Kelly) navigating Hollywood’s chaotic transition to talkies while falling for a chorus girl (Reynolds). For 103 minutes, audiences are treated to kinetic choreography, feel-good songs, and more onscreen chemistry than Ben Franklin flying a kite in a lightning storm. But behind those pearly-white smiles was a very different story.
Kelly was reportedly battling a 103-degree fever while filming his iconic rain sequence, with his widow, Patricia Ward Kelly, later telling Radio Times that he would lie in the sun to “bake the fever out of him.” As she noted, Kelly was not only starring, but also directing and choreographing, leaving little room for rest.
Reynolds, just 19 at the time, also endured an intense shoot that pushed her to exhaustion. Her “Good Morning” number reportedly took 40 takes, leaving her physically depleted.
“Fortunately, Debbie was strong as an ox,” Kelly later said, per Turner Classic Movies, praising her ability to absorb demanding choreography despite what he called the “university of hard work and pain.”
Reynolds herself would later describe a far more painful side of filming in her 2013 memoir, Unsinkable, including her shock during an early onscreen kiss with Kelly, which she recalled as deeply unsettling and unprofessional.
Production challenges didn’t stop there. During the “Broadway Melody Ballet,” Cyd Charisse was nearly overwhelmed by powerful wind machines used to animate a flowing silk scarf attached to her costume.
Even the soundtrack had a twist: Reynolds was dubbed in parts of the film, meaning the voice audiences associate with her character isn’t always hers.
Still, the musical — written by Betty Comden and Adolph Green, with songs by Arthur Freed and Nacio Herb Brown — remains one of the BFI’s Sight and Sound Top 10 films and continues to make 'em laugh more than seven decades later.
Related: 1994 Box Office Flop Became the ‘Greatest Movie of All Time’
Nancy Guthrie Update: Pricey Move Could Provide 'Last Breadcrumb' in Case, Says Retired FBI Agent
Today co-anchor Savannah Guthrie‘s mom, Nancy Guthrie, is still missing more than two months after the abduction from her Tucson, Ariz., home—and a pricey move could provide the "last breadcrumb" in the case, according to a retired FBI agent.
On April 6, TMZ received new notes from a person who allegedly saw Nancy alive in Sonora, Mexico, but claimed that the 84-year-old “is dead” now. The letter was reportedly from the same person who sent ransom notes to the outlet in February. This time, however, they demanded 1 Bitcoin—half before the information was shared and half after a public arrest—in exchange for information about the location of Nancy’s body.
Jennifer Coffindaffer, a retired FBI special agent, explained why paying the ransom might be beneficial in this situation.
“Tickling the wire in this case would be putting half a Bitcoin and seeing what happens to it," she told Newsweek in an article published on April 10. "Do they take it? Do they convert it to pesos? It’s internationally tracked. How does it come out into currency? Do they just leave it there?” she said of the
Coffindaffer acknowledged, "Once it’s gone, it’s going to be gone."
However, she also pointed out, "But I would want that last bread crumb. I think it would be worth it to me.”
View this post on InstagramRelated: Nancy Guthrie Update: Could Key Detail Crack the Case? Retired FBI Agent Weighs In
The new notes and Bitcoin demand in Nancy's case have divided experts weighing in on the case. Retired FBI agent Jason Pack recently called out "red flags" in the letters during an exclusive interview with Parade. Likewise, a retired NYPD sergeant explained why the note and Bitcoin demand should be "taken with a grain of salt." However, an active police detective also shared why they could be legitimate during an interview on Brian Entin Investigates.
Nancy was last seen at her Catalina Foothills residence on the evening of Jan. 31. As of writing, no suspect has been named in the case, despite Savannah offering a $1 million reward on top of a $100,000 FBI reward and more.
Next: Nancy Guthrie Update: How New Tech Could Solve the Case, Says DNA Expert
1997 Box Office Hit Ranked Among 'Best Movies of All Time'
Among a list of the greatest films ever released is a 1997 crime thriller that dominated the box office upon its premiere. Starring Russell Crowe, Kevin Spacey, Guy Pearce, Danny DeVito, and Kim Basinger, the neo-noir film was praised by critics and nominated for multiple Oscars.
Based on James Ellroy's 1990 novel, L.A. Confidential was directed, produced, and co-written by Curtis Hanson. It originally premiered at the Cannes Film Festival before making it to U.S. audiences, where it accumulated over $126 million at the box office against its $35 million budget. Rotten Tomatoes ranks the film as one of the "best movies of all time" in the No. 5 spot with a 99% rating, even beating out Marlon Brando's On the Waterfront.
Hanson had been a longtime fan of Ellroy's novel and fell in love with the characters. He saw an opportunity to bring the novel's overall storyline of the golden era of Los Angeles to the big screen and teamed up with screenwriter Brian Helgeland. The two even got Ellroy's approval, with the writer having been impressed by Hanson's The Bedroom Window and Bad Influence.
Set in 1953 Los Angeles, L.A. Confidential follows a group of police officers at the crosshairs of police corruption and the glamor of Hollywood celebrities. The film focuses on three very different LAPD officers: the ambitious and by-the-book Ed Exley (Pearce), the tough and volatile Bud White (Crowe), and the slick, fame-chasing Jack Vincennes (Spacey). As they investigate a brutal diner massacre known as the “Nite Owl” killings, their separate paths begin to converge, revealing a web of police corruption, organized crime, and media manipulation.
Along the way, they encounter a mysterious woman, Lynn Bracken (Basinger), who becomes entangled in the case and in their personal lives. As the investigation deepens, the officers are forced to confront their own values and the moral compromises they’ve made.
Related: 1957 Classic Film Ranked Among ‘Best Movies of All Time’
L.A. Confidential became a success at Cannes and the box office, with Ellroy having commented, "I understood in 40 minutes or so that it is a work of art on its own level. It was amazing to see the physical incarnation of the characters." Critics called the film "seductive," "beautiful," and gets "just about everything right."
The film was nominated for nine Oscars and won two, with Basinger for Best Actress and Best Adapted Screenplay. That year, the film was up against Titanic, which won in every other category L.A. Confidential was nominated in. Hanson's standout film ended up being considered "historically and culturally significant" and preserved by the Library of Congress.
Country Icon Kenny Chesney Cancels Two Upcoming Shows — Here’s Why
Kenny Chesney will no longer perform two shows that were initially scheduled as part of his upcoming residency at the Sphere in Las Vegas. Those canceled performances were set to take place on July 3-4.
In an announcement to ticketholders on Wednesday, April 8, the country music superstar, 58, revealed he will no longer be performing the mid-summer dates. Still, he did offer ticket holders a promo code to catch him at a future show, in addition to a refund for those who can’t make a later date.
His ReasonThe axed concerts at the Bulbous Wonder come after Chesney came to a personal decision that his focus needs to be on prioritizing family during the Independence Day holiday.
According to The Las Vegas Review-Journal, this marks the first time a major headlining performance has been canceled at the venue, and the “American Kids” crooner notified ticket holders about the change to his schedule in a message.
He wrote, “Funny thing about holidays, family, and traditions: you don’t realize how important they are until you remember all the things people in your life want to do to celebrate them; the reason people come together, go home, and remember, catch up with old friends.”
“Over the last few weeks, I’ve heard about a lot of traditions that wouldn’t be happening, because I was going to play Las Vegas over the 4th of July Weekend,” he continued. “I won’t say I didn’t realize, but I will say: hearing from people I know and care about, I heard them loud and clear. So I’ve made the difficult decision to cancel my shows on July 3 & 4 at Sphere.”
Chesney went on to say that while the decision came with a lot of thought, his No Shoes Nation should know he was looking forward to seeing them and performing for them.
“Not that I don’t want to see you at Sphere, to share this incredible, full-immersion music-visual experience with you. I do,” he said.
Upcoming ScheduleThis is not Chesney’s first show at the Sphere. He played a run at the historic 17,600-seat venue known for Sphere Immersive Sound as the first country headlining act in the spring and summer of 2025.
The remainder of Chesney’s Sphere shows are still scheduled as planned, with nine dates in total: June 19, 20, 24, 26, and 27; and July 1, 8, 10, and 11.
Is ‘Fire Country’ on Tonight? (April 10, 2026)
The hit CBS drama Fire Country has become a Friday night staple for the network over the past four seasons.
Fire Country fans can’t get enough of the show and have been dealt a couple of lengthy hiatuses recently. The latest break was a result of March Madness, though the series made good by following up with the first-ever Sheriff Country and Fire Country crossover event.
Last week, fans watched Cal Fire and the Edgewater Sheriff Department work together on a major case that impacted the town. Now, fans are wondering what is next for Fire Country in terms of new episodes.
Is Fire Country on Tonight?Good news, Fire Country fans! The show is back with a brand-new episode on Friday, April 10, hitting CBS airwaves at 9/8c and dropping on Paramount+ on Saturday, April 11.
The follow-up to the crossover takes Fire Country to a place it has never gone before: the rodeo.
Fire Country Season Episode 14 DetailsWhat isn’t a new take is Bode (Max Thieriot) and his always-complicated personal life. Despite Tyler (Conor Sherry) starting the Zabel Ridge Fire that killed Vince (Billy Burke), Bode can’t seem to stay away from Tyler or his mother, Chloe (Alona Tal).
CBS teased Season 4 Episode 14, titled “Why Not Now,” with a brief preview video featuring Bode at the rodeo with Chloe. It also reveals the return of Chloe’s ex, Landon (Josh McDermitt), who is also at the rodeo.
A heated exchange erupts between Bode and Landon, leading Bode to issue a threat: “You’re not going to like how this ends.” In true Fire Country fashion, crowd chaos, animals on the loose, and fire soon have the rodeo getting out of control.
View this post on InstagramThe synopsis for the episode reads: “A day of celebration at the Edgewater rodeo erupts into chaos after a stampede of runaway horses endangers the crowd.”
Related: Where is ‘Fire Country’ Filmed?
Fire Country’s new episode is the latest in a run of new episodes leading to the Season 4 finale on Friday, May 22. Never fear, though, Fire Country fans, the show isn't going anywhere anytime soon because Season 5 of Fire Country has already been ordered
Along with Thieriot, Fire Country stars Diane Farr (Sharon), Jules Latimer (Eve), Jordan Calloway (Jake), Kevin Alejandro (Manny), and Michael Trucco (Luke).
Fire Country airs Fridays at 9/8c on CBS.
Next: ‘The Young and the Restless’ Shemar Moore Has ‘Bone to Pick’ About His Latest Return
Melissa Joan Hart Shares Cryptic Message That Has ‘Sabrina the Teenage Witch’ Fans Freaking Out
Melissa Joan Hart just shared a cryptic message that left Sabrina the Teenage Witch fans freaking out over the possibility of a reboot or a 30th anniversary reunion special.
On Friday, April 10, the former child actress who played Sabrina Spellman in the beloved sitcomtook to Instagram with a post that had fans speculating.
"Stay tuned for a fun announcement on Monday!" Hart, 49, captioned her update.
For the main image, she chose an outline of a black cat on a black background, with no other text or clues. Except, fans immediately thought about Salem the cat in Sabrina, and then wondered if it meant Salem, Sabrina, and the rest of the gang would soon grace their screens once again.
View this post on InstagramIn the comments, Sabrina fans shared their excitement over the possibilities of Hart's "surprise." One Instagram user begged, "Tell me you're coming back as Sabrina, the Teenage Witch, with Salem!! 🙏🙌."
Another exclaimed, "WHAT OMG I CAN'T BREATHE," as a third predicted, "Reboot of Sabrina the Teenage Witch?!?
Someone else echoed, "Manifesting a reboot with Caroline Rhea and Beth Broderick back too! 👏."
"Sabrina: Mother of a Teenage Witch 👯♀️," a different follower guessed.
Others shared more predictions, writing, "You're coming to 90's Con?!", "Rewatch pod?", and "Sabrina 30th years reunion 🙏🏼👏."
Less than two weeks ago, Hart turned heads when she posted a photo via Instagram with two of her former Sabrina co-stars. "When the magic fam comes together!" she captioned the update featuring Nate Richert(Harvey) and Beth Broderick (Aunt Zelda).
View this post on InstagramSabrina the Teenage Witch aired for seven seasons from 1996 to 2003. This year, on Sep. 27, will officially mark 30 years since it premiered.
What do you think Hart will announce on April 13?
Next: Sofía Vergara Reunites With ‘Modern Family’ Costar Jesse Tyler Ferguson for New Project
Mille Bobby Brown Abruptly Exits Upcoming Film — Declines to Comment on Departure
A shocking and major career update for Millie Bobby Brown has been revealed.
It was announced on Friday that Netflix dropped the upcoming gymnastics film Perfect after the Stranger Thingsstar left the project due to creative differences. Production was supposed to start this summer.
The 22-year-old actress was supposed to play Kerri Strug, a member of the "Magnificent Seven" USA gymnastics team during the 1996 Olympics. Gia Coppola was set to direct the film, while Ronnie Sandahl penned the script. Brown was also set to produce, along with Nik Bower of Riverstone Pictures and Thomas Benski.
So far, both Brown and Netflix have declined to comment.
Millie Bobby Brown at Netflix's "Stranger Things" season 5 UK Special Screening held at Odeon Luxe Leicester Square on November 13, 2025 in London, England.Eamonn McCormack/Variety via Getty Images
Strug made history at 18 years old after performing her vault routine with an injured ankle during the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, which won Team USA a gold medal. On her first attempt on the vault, the gymnast landed wrong and tore ligaments in her left ankle during the team final. Despite the injury, she completed a second vault, sticking her landing on one foot.
She retired from gymnastics shortly after the Olympics and attended UCLA, where she worked as the gymnastics team's manager. After graduating from undergrad and receiving a master's degree in social psychology from Stanford, Strug worked as an elementary school teacher in the Washington D.C. area, then as a staff assistant in various branches of government.
Meanwhile, Brown wrapped Stranger Things, which has been streaming on Netflix since 2016. She portrayed Eleven (also known as Jane Hopper), a young girl with psychokinetic and telepathic abilities who escapes from Hawkins National Laboratory. After the release of the drama's last season in late 2025, Brown moved to Georgia with her husband, Jake Bongiovi and taking care of their daughter, whom they adopted in 2025. In addition, she is working on her brand, florence by mills, and they recently dropped a new clothing line.
Related: Millie Bobby Brown Poses With Daughter in Rare Photo for 22nd Birthday
Amazon’s ‘Super Comfy’ $40 Dr. Scholl’s Slide Sandals Are Built for Travel and All-Day Adventures
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Spring is filled with weekend trips, long walks through the neighborhood, afternoons spent shopping, and full days on your feet soaking it all in. It’s the season of getting and staying out more and saying yes to plans that keep you moving from noon to night. But anyone who’s dealt with aching arches or tender heels knows not all sandals are built for that kind of mileage. Style is easy to find, but lasting comfort is a whole different story — and finding a pair that delivers both is key.
If you’re ready to step into something smarter, Dr. Scholl’s All The Time Slide Sandals are just $40 at Amazon, marked down 56% from their original $90 price tag. Known for blending comfort with everyday style, the brand delivers again with this easy slip-on pair that supports your feet while looking chic.
Dr. Scholl’s All The Time Slide Sandals, From $40 (was $90) at Amazon Shop at AmazonThoughtfully designed for both comfort and everyday wear, these Dr. Scholl’s slides check all the boxes. They feature a low-chemical faux leather upper and lining, offering a more mindful approach to materials. The slip-on design is paired with an adjustable buckle on the instep strap, giving you a more customized fit. Underfoot, the brand’s insole technology delivers anatomically ergonomic cushioning and support, creating a padded, comfortable base that helps keep you going throughout the day.
The high-traction rubber outsole provides stability, and its ultra-flexible, lightweight construction moves naturally with your stride for that easy, broken-in feel from the start. Even better, the sandals are pre-treated with an easy clean repellant to help keep the sidewalls looking fresh longer — just a quick wipe with water is all it takes. Finished with a small 1.25-inch platform, this pair blends function, flexibility, and style into one reliable go-to.
Finding your size is pretty easy with these, since they come in half sizes from 6 through 11. That means you’re not stuck choosing between too tight or slightly too loose. They’re available in seven different colors, giving you plenty of options to match your style. The neutral shades like gold, black, white, and brown are the most affordably priced at just $40, and they’re also the easiest to pair with just about everything you already own.
Related: Amazon's 'Lightweight' Skechers Sandals Are Now Just $38 and Feel 'Like Walking on Air'
Shoppers shared their thoughts on this “super comfy” and “cute” pair with “great cushioning” in the reviews section, saying that they’re a “nice addition to summer wardrobes.” One shopper shared, “I normally struggle with slide-ons, but these keep my foot in place and have great support.”
Shop More Deals- Dr. Scholl's Time Off Sky Sandals, from $50 (was $80) at Amazon
- Dr. Scholl's Madison Cloud Slide Sandals, from $50 (was $95) at Amazon
- Dr. Scholl's Islander Sandals, from $38 (was $80) at Amazon
Don’t let uncomfortable sandals slow you down. Grab Dr. Scholl’s All The Time Slide Sandals for $40 while the 56% off deal at Amazon lasts, and keep your spring plans moving in comfort and style.
Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.
If You Love the Mystery Element of ‘Wednesday,’ There’s the Perfect Book Coming This Month
Most of the time, we want a book that is going to connect to an interest we’ve formed. Teens solving mysteries in school is certainly a popular genre. Wednesday on Netflix does it well, but Pretty Little Liars, Elite, and Fate: The Winx Saga had all captured the hearts of fans.
Well, there’s an upcoming book that is going to be perfect for you. Make sure A House of Vipers by Emma Jackson is on your list.
‘A House of Vipers’ Brings an Mystery to an English Boarding SchoolJackson’s YA debut, A House of Vipers, takes us into the world of a Colorado boarding school. It all starts with a student’s mysterious disappearance, and a year later, his brother is looking for answers. Will they find Sutter Heyward’s brother, Lawson, alive, or is this a mystery that can’t be uncovered?
Sutter is sure that his brother is out there somewhere. Everyone else may have given up, but he knows that there was something fishy going on, and it’s connected to the on-campus secret society, The Order of Vipers. As soon as he gets the chance, he joins, but he soon realizes that the risks that come with joining by outweigh the reward.
Delacorte Press
Perfect for ‘Wednesday’ and ‘The Inheritance Games’ FansAt first, it’s clear that this novel is going to be perfect for fans of Wednesday and Pretty Little Liars. It’s packed with backstabbing, puzzles, and a secret order that leaves you wondering what they could be doing in the darkness.
However, it’s also perfect for The Inheritance Games fans. The series of books followed Avery Grambs as she fought to survive high school while trying to win a scholarship. Of course,a death leads to Avery getting an entire fortune, but she has no idea who the deceased is or why she’s the one getting the money, and in comes a mystery that leaves us hooked to solve.
The twist with this is that it's a male protagonist rather than the typical female one for YA novels. This does bring a slightly different feel, but it makes it perfect for Harry Potterfans in that regard.
A House of Vipers will be released on April 28, 2026. It’s an April release that you will not want to sleep on, especially if you love the puzzles and mysteries that come with other YA thrillers.
BAFTA N-Word Controversy Blamed on 'Structural Weaknesses,' Not Malicious Intent or Racism
Following the shocking racial slur that erupted during last month's BAFTA Film Awards on February 22, 2026, the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) has accepted and released the results of an independent review of the incident. The review finds no evidence of "malicious intent" or "institutional racism." The reviewers do say they uncovered what they've defined as "structural weaknesses" inside BAFTA.
The racial slur heard 'round the world occurred during a BAFTA award presentation earlier this year. Sinners stars Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were on stage presenting the award for Special Visual Effects when the N-word was audibly blurted out from the audience. We later found out that the slur had been involuntarily yelled by John Davidson, a Scottish Tourette's activist, who also has Tourette syndrome, including coprolalia, or involuntary, often offensive, vocal outbursts.
The story lit up due to its racist implications combined with the sensitivities around persons with disabilities. However, from both sides of the aisle, BAFTA was blamed for allowing the slur to hit airwaves across the pond, despite having a tape delay, and to remain unedited in streaming players for hours after it happened, further spreading and deepening the wounds caused by the incident.
Related: BAFTA Host Alan Cumming Apologizes for ‘Trauma-Triggering’ Slur Incident
In releasing the findings of the investigation, the BAFTA Board of Trustees did issue an apology: "We apologise unreservedly to the Black community, for whom the racist language used carries real pain, brutality, and trauma; to the disability community, including people with Tourette Syndrome, for whom this incident has led to unfair judgement, stigma, and distress; and to all our members, guests at the ceremony and those watching at home."
They also outlined their three-step plan for internal changes at BAFTA, which include:
- Improving escalation processes and the chain of information sharing around their awards shows.
- Adopting a broader intersectional approach to access, inclusion, and support at events to ensure they are properly considering every group's needs and experiences.
- Addressing internal cultural or knowledge gaps that may interfere with BAFTA's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Read the conclusion of independent review and full statement from the BAFTA Board of Trustees.
Now it's up to the Black and disabled communities and their allies, as well as everyone who supports the independent arts charity and academy, to decide if this apology and promise for change are meaningful or not.
Who Won 'Jeopardy' Today? (April 10, 2026) Plus, the Final Jeopardy Answer
There are three things guaranteed in the world today: Death, taxes, and Jeopardy! being on. Believe it or not, the iconic game show has been on the air for over 60 years (though the modern incarnation we know and love technically debuted in 1984). Under the watchful eye of Ken Jennings (who himself was a record-breaking champion), Jeopardy! puts three people's trivia skills and reflexes to the ultimate test. And so many of the greats to grace those podiums started by simply watching the show as it aired on weekdays, as millions have done for over half a century.
Here's a spoiler-filled recap of who won Jeopardy! today, plus the answer to Final Jeopardy.
Jamie Ding simply won't stop winning. He extended his dominant winning streak to 21 consecutive games, tying Cris Pannullo for sixth on the all-time consecutive wins list, per the Jeopardy Leaderboard of Legends and knocking on the door of the all-time top earners list. Friday's victory brought his cumulative regular-play winnings to an impressive $609,000.
Who are the Jeopardy contestants today?Xaque WilliamsXaque Williamsis a writer from Knoxville, Tennessee.
Kathi FitzgeraldKathi Fitzgerald is an English teacher from Williamsburg, Virginia
Jamie DingWith Artemis II's return to Earth tonight causing some broadcast shuffling, Jamie Ding still earned $36,400 and pushed his 21-day total to $609,000.
Friday's episode of the long-running quiz show saw its reigning champion put together yet another masterful performance, even if it wasn't quite as flawless as some of his earlier games. The bureaucrat and law student from Lawrenceville, New Jersey, found all three Daily Doubles, though one stumble, along with a few incorrect responses in Double Jeopardy, kept his score lower than some of his most recent outings. Even so, he managed to build a commanding runway lead heading into Final Jeopardy, where he answered correctly.
Related: Sam Heughan Surprises ‘Jeopardy!’ Fans With an ‘Outlander’ Category — Can You Answer the Clues?
What was Final Jeopardy today?Final Jeopardy today was in the category "Around The World."
The clue: "A river named for the sacred lotus flower flows toward this 839,000-square-mile body of water."
The answer: What is the Bay of Bengal?
Two out of three contestants got it right. Jamie wagered $9,600 from his $26,800 lead and responded correctly, finishing with $36,400. Xaque also nailed it, wagering $7,000 to finish at $15,200, a strong showing even if it wasn't enough to catch the champ. Kathi, meanwhile, guessed "What is the Indian Ocean?" and chose not to wager anything from her $200, holding steady at $200.
Ding will be back Monday looking for win number 22.
Did you get the answer? Sign off in the comments!
Related: Where Jamie Ding Ranks Among ‘Jeopardy!’s Top 10 All-Time Winners
When is Jeopardy on next?Jeopardy! will come back on Monday, April 13, with a new episode. Check your local listings to find out when to watch
Where is Jeopardy streaming?Jeopardy! is available on both Hulu and Peacock. Subscribers can enjoy watching new episodes the next day, as well as access a vault of many classic episodes to enjoy at a moment's notice.
Related: Ken Jennings Reveals If 'Celebrity Jeopardy!' Questions Are Easier
Is ‘Sheriff Country’ on Tonight? (April 10, 2026)
Sheriff Country Season 1 has been moving right along, proving it’s so much more than a Fire Country spin-off.
After a couple of lengthy breaks, most recently for March Madness, fans were treated to the first-ever Sheriff Country and Fire Country crossover last week. The major event only made fans want more episodes of the new CBS show, especially as the season nears its end.
Is Sheriff Country on Tonight?There is good news for Sheriff Country fans. On Friday, April 10, a new episode of Sheriff Country will hit CBS airwaves at 8/7c and drop on Paramount+ on Saturday, April 11.
The new episode is a doozy that will test Edgewater’s Sheriff Department like never before. Fans won’t want to miss this episode for sure.
Sheriff Country Episode 114 DetailsEdgewater has a serial killer in its midst. The episode titled “Show of Force” focuses on the deadly threat facing the town, and it gets deeply personal for Cassidy (Michele Weaver).
Sheriff Country fans know Cassidy’s sister went missing years ago. The serial killer’s target is young girls just like Cassidy’s sister. Mickey (Morena Baccarin) is up against the clock as a major function gives the killer a perfect opportunity to target the young women.
The official synopsis for the episode of Sheriff Country reads: “During Edgewater’s Blood Moon Festival, Sheriff Mickey races to stop a suspected serial killer targeting young women. Meanwhile, a shocking discovery propels Deputy Cassidy into the crosshairs of the case.”
Related: 'The Young and the Restless’ Shemar Moore Has ‘Bone to Pick’ About His Latest Return
CBS teased the episode, revealing that the serial killer has been at large for two decades. There is a desperation in Cassidy’s voice as she tells Mickey, “We have to stop this guy,” and Mickey declares, “We will.”
View this post on InstagramSheriff Country’s latest episode is part of the new episode run that will lead into the Season 1 finale airing on May 22. There are still seven new episodes to air before the season wraps in a few weeks.
Along with Baccarin and Weaver, Sheriff Country also stars Matt Lauria (Boone), W.Earl Brown (Wes), Christopher Gorham (Travis), Caroline Rhea (Gina), and Amanda Arcuri (Skye).
Sheriff Country airs Fridays at 8/7c on CBS.
'RHOA' Star Shamea Morton Teases ‘Dramatic’ Season 17: ‘All I Can Say is Buckle Up’ (Exclusive)
Shamea Morton Mwangi is ready for her sophomore year. The reality TV star is back for her second season as a “peach-holder” on Bravo’s The Real Housewives of Atlanta. As the 17th season kicks off on Bravo, we caught up with Shamea and broke down her experience on reality TV, what sets this season apart from last year's soft reboot, and what fans can expect from yet another stellar entry in RHOA.
“I don't know if I'm a pro just yet, but I am no longer a freshman,” Shamea explained to us. While she spent years as a “Friend Of” on the series, season 17 marks her second as a full-time housewife (which fans have lovingly coined as ‘holding a peach'').
“So that is a great feeling,” she added. “I am now a sophomore on The Real Housewives of Atlanta. I'm super excited to be in this new season 17. I had a lot of fun, but I also had a little bit of drama.”
Shamea is once again joined by her former bestie Porsha Williams, Drew Sidora, Phaedra Parks, Kelli Ferrell, Phaedra Parks, and Angela Oakley, while newbies K. Michelle and Pinky Cole join the group. For Shamea, who ended Season 16 on some shaky terms with some castmates, she told us she tried her best to start fresh in the group.
“I'm putting me first,” she explained. “I had extended an olive branch, and I was coming into 17 wanting to get to know all of the ladies, whatever that meant. I wanted to have a clean slate and possibly, real friendship with them. I wanted that, but then I realized leaving 17, that you can't force it. Some people are for you and some people you're just supposed to coexist with or just, you know, they're just not your people.”
Still, Shamea maintains that all of the ladies are “powerful, strong, beautiful, talented, and bosses.” She added, “So if I'm not your person, I honestly feel like our viewers can resonate with somebody in this cast.”
Shamea also praised both Pinky and K. Michelle as they join the cast, referring to them both as “new friends” of hers that serve as a breath of fresh air in the group. As for her strained relationships with some other castmates, however, there’s still plenty of work to be done there, especially with Drew Sidora.
“Just saying her name is draining, Jesus,” she teased when mentioning Drew. “I mean, she's always looking for a moment. It's unfortunate, because when you try to really get to know her, it's like there's this wall up or there's this acting. She's always on.”
“Some people just aren't for you,” she added. “I think that just may be the case with her, and there's nothing wrong with it. She's her own person, and that doesn’t take away from her being beautiful and talented. She’s just not my kind of girl.”
Then there’s her relationship with Porsha, who was once her closest friend in the entire group. Season 16 saw some serious fractures in their relationship, and season 17 continues their story as they continue to navigate their fluctuating friendship. “I just appreciate the fact that we are able to coexist and share the same space,” she told us. “I'm not looking for anything, and she's not either. I think that, is what it is, and, we're just navigating this friend circle as best as we can.”
The Real Housewivesfranchise also just celebrated a major milestone, celebrating 20 years on the air since the first episode of The Real Housewives of Orange County premiered. Being a part of this larger-than-life “sisterhood” is something that Shamea is grateful for, and the importance of the opportunity is not lost on her.
“It means the world to me,” she gushed. “A lot of people are like, ‘Oh, I don't know why she's doing this, she doesn’t need it.' But, we have to do things in our life that make us happy and brings joy. I appreciate Bravo for giving me this platform to showcase my life, my family, my faith, fashion, and the fun."
In just one year on the platform, Shamea has opened up tremendously to the Bravo audiences, letting viewers into her personal life and struggles, her youngest daughter’s health conditions, her journey with IVF and surrogacy and more. “I want to show people that it's not always amazing,” she added. “We are all going through trials and tribulations and they will always make us stronger. We just have to stay the course.”
As for the rest of the season, she teases, “All I can say is, buckle up! There is a wave of emotions. There’s highs and there's lows, and I mean, it'll keep you on the edge of your seat. It’s almost like a thriller!”
The Real Housewives of Atlanta airs Sunday nights on Bravo.
