For years, Scientology has been one of the most talked-about—and hotly debated—religious movements in Hollywood. Some celebrities credit it with transforming their lives, while others have been at the center of controversies, exposing its darker side. Here’s a look at 12 actors and TV stars who have had a notable connection with the Church of Scientology, whether through faith, influence, or public association.

12. Tom Cruise

When it comes to Scientology in Hollywood, Tom Cruise is the one. Introduced in the late ’80s by his first wife, Mimi Rogers, Cruise claims that the Church cured his dyslexia and spurred his success. He’s referred to it as “a beautiful religion” and has been one of its loudest champions. His commitment is so strong that some members apparently view him as a savior. Nevertheless, his strong connection to the Church has been attributed to the collapse of his marriages to Nicole Kidman and Katie Holmes, the former allegedly fleeing to protect their daughter from Scientology’s control.

11. Danny Masterson and Family

That ’70s Show star Danny Masterson was raised in a Scientology family and was vocal in his endorsement of the Church. But his trial on criminal charges brought an unsavory light to that relationship: Masterson was found guilty of two counts of rape and sentenced to 30 years to life in prison. Victims said Scientology had protected him, and the Church has been accused of attempting to silence accusers. His brothers — Alanna, Christopher, and Jordan — continue to be members, although their father, Joe Reaiche, has said that they were “brainwashed” against him when he left the Church.

10. Emily Armstrong

Emily Armstrong, who now leads Linkin Park, was born into Scientology. Her family was an active member, and she attended high-profile events as a child. Armstrong once stood by Danny Masterson at an initial court appearance but then went on to distance herself, stating she regretted it when further information came to light. Now, she has denounced abuse and sympathized with victims, and some fans even interpret attacks on Scientology hidden within her Dead Sara lyrics. Her current status with the Church is uncertain.

9. John Travolta

John Travolta joined Scientology in 1975 and often credits the faith with helping him through personal tragedies, including the death of his son. While he tends to keep his beliefs private, he defended the Church against criticism after Leah Remini’s documentary, saying it had supported him for decades. Some speculate he pulled back after his wife, Kelly Presto, ’s cancer battle, since Scientology’s founder opposed chemotherapy.

8. Elisabeth Moss

Mad Men and The Handmaid’s Tale actress Elisabeth Moss doesn’t talk much about her affiliation with Scientology, even though she was born into the religion. When a fan once likened the Church to the dystopian state featured in her television program, Moss was adamant that values such as religious freedom and equality were at its core. Opponents say Scientology’s behavior is more often the opposite. 

7. Catherine Bell

Most famous for Army Wives, Catherine Bell has publicly defended Scientology. She has countered that most of the criticism is based on misconceptions and invites people to read L. Ron Hubbard’s Dianetics themselves before judging. 

6. Jason Dohring

Veronica Mars star attributes his success to Scientology, which he was introduced to through his father. According to Dohring, religion is misunderstood by outsiders who make judgments based on secondhand information and not personal study.

5. Jenna Elfman

Jenna Elfman, best known for Dharma & Greg, has been a proud Scientologist since 1990. She asserts it provides her with energy, happiness, and balance in life.

4. Giovanni and Marissa Ribisi

Identical twins Giovanni and Marissa Ribisi grew up in the Church. Giovanni, who is best known for Friends and Avatar, has stood up for his beliefs as private and useful to him. Marissa, on the other hand, was wedded to musician Beck, who was linked with Scientology for years, too.

3. Erika Christensen

Parenthood actress Erika Christensen was raised in Scientology and explained the challenge of raising a child within the faith, noting that it’s a practice, not a belief.

2. Michael Peña

Actor Michael Peña, who has appeared in American Hustle and The Martian, has credited a Scientology program, Study Tech, as helping him with reading skills and enhancing his acting. 

1. Nancy Cartwright

The voice of Bart Simpson, Nancy Cartwright, has long been a member of the Church and one of its largest financial supporters, giving over $20 million. She has spoken of being honored by Scientology in the past as “the most beautiful acknowledgement” she had ever experienced.

From megastars such as Tom Cruise to the favorite TV voices like Nancy Cartwright, Scientology’s power within Hollywood can’t be denied. To some, it’s a haven of comfort and achievement. To others, it’s been at the center of scandal and controversy. In either case, these individuals illustrate just how far the Church’s influence goes into the industry of entertainment.

Sometimes the most unforgettable love stories aren’t scripted—they just happen. Hollywood is full of romances where co-stars became real-life soulmates, proving that movie magic can spark something far beyond the screen. From fleeting flings to marriages that stood the test of time, these couples show that the chemistry captured on camera can sometimes lead to a love story that lasts long after the credits roll.

15. Jennifer Lawrence & Nicholas Hoult (X-Men: First Class)

Before she became Katniss, Jennifer Lawrence was Mystique—and developed a crush on her X-Men: First Class co-star Nicholas Hoult. Their lighthearted romance lasted a couple of years, and despite breaking up in 2015, they’re still buddies. 

14. Dev Patel & Freida Pinto (Slumdog Millionaire)

Their movie dominated the Oscars, but the actual award was in finding each other. Dev and Freida were dating for six years, keeping things relatively low-key but staying warm when seen together. Although they’ve now parted ways, their fans love their tale.

13. Andrew Garfield & Emma Stone (The Amazing Spider-Man)

Peter Parker and Gwen Stacy’s chemistry extended beyond the screen. Andrew and Emma were dating for four years, and even though they broke up, they remain best friends to this day. Their on-screen chemistry remains one of Hollywood’s most delightful “Spidey” legacies.

12. Miley Cyrus & Liam Hemsworth (The Last Song)

What began as a Nicholas Sparks beach rom-com became almost a decade of highs and lows, a marriage, and a tabloid breakup. Theirs wasn’t a love that was meant to last, but it’s sure not one to forget.

11. Amanda Seyfried & Dominic Cooper (Mamma Mia!)

Singing ABBA hits in the Greek sunshine, Amanda and Dominic fell head over heels while shooting Mamma Mia! They were dating for nearly three years before reuniting for the second film—showing exes can remain friends (and still slay a duet). 

10. Channing Tatum & Jenna Dewan (Step Up)

From the set to the real world, Channing and Jenna’s on-screen chemistry was undeniable. They got married, had a daughter, and although they’ve divorced since then, they’re still dedicated co-parents.

9. Kit Harington & Rose Leslie (Game of Thrones)

Jon Snow and Ygritte’s explosive romance spilled over into real life, resulting in a castle wedding and two children. From snowy sets to domestic bliss, their love story is one for the books.

8. Ryan Gosling & Eva Mendes (The Place Beyond the Pines)

Ryan and Eva’s movie kiss grew into one of Hollywood’s most low-key but long-lasting romances. Today, married with two daughters, they have maintained their romance sweetly off the radar.

7. Blake Lively & Ryan Reynolds (Green Lantern)

The film failed, but the romance triumphed. Blake and Ryan’s chemistry blossomed into a wedding, three daughters, and a fourth on the way. Their lighthearted social media spats make them Hollywood’s best-loved couple.

6. Jesse Plemons & Kirsten Dunst (Fargo)

Life imitated art when Jesse and Kirsten portrayed a married couple in Fargo. Their on-screen chemistry translated to real life, and they got married in 2022. They’re the epitome of quirky, indie royalty.

5. Tom Holland & Zendaya (Spider-Man: Homecoming)

Beginning as friends, Tom and Zendaya gradually transitioned from co-stars to one of Gen Z’s most beloved power couples. They remain under the radar, but each red-carpet sighting melts the internet.

4. Dax Shepard & Kristen Bell (When in Rome, CHiPs)

It didn’t work at first, but when it did, there was no going back. Dax and Kristen are married, parents, and well-known for being honest about relationships.

3. Freddie Prinze Jr. & Sarah Michelle Gellar (Scooby-Doo)

Their initial encounter was on I Know What You Did Last Summer, but it was Scooby-Doo that sealed their relationship. Married since 2002, they’ve established one of Hollywood’s few long-lasting marriages.

2. Rose Leslie & Kit Harington (Game of Thrones)

Yes, they deserve a second shoutout—because not many TV romances have translated into as lasting a real-life love story. From Westeros to wedded bliss, their journey is fantasy-meets-reality.

1. Ryan Gosling & Rachel McAdams (The Notebook)

More iconic doesn’t exist. Although they argued initially, Ryan and Rachel’s passionate chemistry in The Notebook became an actual romance. Their MTV “Best Kiss” scene remains legendary, and their love story—even a short one—remains timeless.

Hollywood might be full of scripts and special effects, but sometimes the best romance is unscripted. These couples remind us that love doesn’t just happen in the movies—it happens because of them.

Let’s be honest: TV wouldn’t be nearly as entertaining without the characters who make us scream at the screen. The ones who get under our skin, annoy us relentlessly, or make us cringe—but somehow keep us glued to the story anyway. Whether they’re toxic, narcissistic, or just painfully average, their antics drive the drama and fuel the fandoms. Here’s a countdown of the 10 most despised TV characters of all time—the ones we love to hate, can’t stop talking about, and secretly enjoy every frustrating moment of.

10. Ted Mosby (How I Met Your Mother)

Ted pretends that he is the ideal lover, but nine seasons of whining, showoff, and self-centeredness had a lot of the audience wondering how in the world anybody could stand him. Right, he is the “hero” of the story, but in fact, he is the exact opposite. Even Marshall wins the spotlight every time. No wonder Stella ran out the door. Ted kills the vibe.

9. Eric Forman (That’s 70s Show)

Red’s favourite joke to accompany his insult “dumbass” about Eric wasn’t far from the truth. From complaining that Donna was smarter than him to escaping to Africa only to return as if he had never left, Eric made it clear that he was one of the most boring and irritating of television’s main characters. Soft ego, your name is Forman.

8. Jim Halpert (The Office)

Initially, Jim was the ordinary guy in the midst of madness. But take a closer look, he’s a prankster who spends more time winking at the camera than doing work. When he was given a promotion to co-manager, he failed. Toss in how he sometimes left Pam to bear the brunt at home while he pursued his ambitions, and Mr. Perfect doesn’t seem quite so perfect.

7. Ross Geller (Friends)

Ross is neurotic, entitled, and always whiny. His romance with Rachel was a rollercoaster ride of toxicity, and let’s not forget his creepy student-dating years. Oh, and remember he’s a dad? Yeah, barely, since he’s so absent. The fact that he’s included in the friend group at all is like nepotism, thanks to Monica.

6. Ray Barone (Everybody Loves Raymond)

Ray is just a perfect example of “successful at work, useless at home.” Debra is the one who does all the parenting, and in the meantime, Ray makes fun of her from the sidelines and does not set any limits for his very controlling mother. He is really funny, yes, but Debra could have gotten a medal (and a vacation) for sure.

5. Beth Dutton (Yellowstone)

Beth has the traits of being callous, venomous, and unashamedly cruel, and some of her fans strangely admire these, while others utterly detest them. She ruins the lives of her victims, and quite often, just because she can. In case of sympathy from the viewer, she would be the most antagonistic one among TV characters and the most infamous of Taylor Sheridan’s works.

4. Skyler White (Breaking Bad)

There was no character in any show that was demonized unfairly more than Skyler White. The audience portrayed her as nagging or controlling, while in fact, she was confronting Walt’s lying and was not going to let him build his empire with her help. Anna Gunn, the one who played her, has pointed out that the backlash was more a reflection of stereotypes about women rather than the show itself. Skyler was not the problem; she was Walt’s mirror.

3. Sheldon Cooper (The Big Bang Theory)

Sheldon is friendly, awkward, narcissistic, and at times unbearable. He is funny in his neuroses and rituals, yet it is a bit painful to watch how his friends mock and ridicule him. He is the main reason the show lives on and is the most polarizing character, as he even provokes debates about how neurodivergent characters get depicted in television.

2. Marie Barone (Everybody Loves Raymond)

The nightmare mother-in-law at its worst. Marie cheats, calls names, and guilt-trips with Olympic precision, driving Debra to the edge. Still, she is also special and devoted in her own unique way. Doris Roberts did it so outrageously that people could not stop watching her terrible job performance.

1. Archie Bunker (All in the Family)

The very first TV bigot, Archie, was noisy, racist, and always stubborn in his views. Yet Americans still fell for him. Carroll O’Connor’s brilliant acting made Archie despicable and strangely lovable at the same time. He was a reflection of society’s biases, and maybe that is why he struck such a chord.

They are characters that television would not be the same without, from sensitive egos to outright villains. They stay with us because they are imperfect, complex, and way too human. They not only annoy and test us, but at times they even make us recognize the ones we know and the things about ourselves that we would rather not acknowledge. And that is the exact reason why we would not have such a nice show without them.

Let’s be honest: with streaming at our fingertips, sometimes the best choice isn’t a brand-new show—it’s the series that already feels like home. Comfort TV isn’t just about passing the time; it’s about revisiting familiar favorites that still manage to surprise with little details, forgotten jokes, and heartwarming moments. These are the shows you turn to when you need a laugh, a mood boost, or simply that cozy, enveloping feeling. Here’s our list of the most rewatchable comfort shows, counted down in reverse order for a little extra suspense.

10. Derry Girls

Derry Girls, set in Northern Ireland during The Troubles, somehow finds a way to mesh dense history with some of the best teen comedy out there. A group of Catholic schoolgirls (with one hapless English boy thrown in for good measure) bumble their way through love affairs, family rows, and exams with side-splitting consequences. The script is whip-sharp, and any rewatch unearths new gags, side-eye moments, and priceless deadpan expressions from Sister Michael, the perpetually unimpressed headmistress. Short, messy, and perpetually quotable, it’s the ideal binge when you need irreverent escapism.

9. The Office (US)

Few sitcoms have the staying power of The Office. This workplace mockumentary is endlessly rewatchable thanks to its mix of awkward humor, subtle romance, and surprising tenderness. Jim’s glances at the camera, Pam’s quiet frustrations, Dwight’s over-the-top antics, and Michael’s misguided “leadership” each rewatch brings new little details to notice. Whether you’ve watched it ten times or are just starting your second round, Scranton’s paper company never loses its charm.

8. Shrinking

Apple TV+’s Shrinking is evidence that comedy and sorrow can share space in perfect harmony. With Jason Segel and Harrison Ford at the helm, the show seamlessly juggles dark humor and real emotional truth. The characters are completely lived-in, and the subtle, quiet exchanges only gain traction with repeat viewing. It’s snappy, it’s heartwarming, and it’s oddly therapeutic—a show you’ll be desperate to binge when you need both laughs and solace.

7. Ted Lasso

An American football coach coaching a British soccer team wasn’t the stuff of comfort viewing, but Ted Lasso turned out to be exactly that. This show is warm, hopeful, and joyful without being sentimental. Each rewatch is filled with new Easter eggs, continued gags, and character arcs that make the show richer on each view. It’s a testament to the fact that kindness can be as engaging as conflict, and that’s special TV magic.

6. The Good Place

Philosophy has never been so enjoyable. The Good Place keeps Eleanor and her afterlife gang busy with moral issues, crazy plot turns, and lots of frozen yogurt. Its combination of witty writing, subtle jokes, and profound questions regarding ethics makes it perfect for several rewatches; you’ll always pick up something you didn’t notice before. And Ted Danson’s acting as the architect Michael is continuously charming.

5. Schitt’s Creek

At first, the Roses are unbearable. By the end, they’re family. Schitt’s Creek takes us on a seldom-seen TV ride: characters that truly develop without losing their offbeat vibe. The style, the quick-witted quips, the sweetness hidden behind the sarcasm, it’s the type of comedy that’s still better the second (or third…or fourth) time around. Observing the Rose family flower never loses its charm.

4. Parks and Recreation

Leslie Knope and the Parks Department in Pawnee are comfort food. Parks and Rec looks at community, ridiculous bureaucracy, and the goodness of friendship through a cast of characters you just want to spend time with. The mockumentary format means that second viewings are riddled with blink-and-you ‘ll-miss-it humor. Uplifting, silly, and waffle-filled, it’s the sort of show that leaves you feeling better for having seen it.

3. Golden Girls

Even before “comfort TV” became a catchphrase, Golden Girls codified it. Blanche, Dorothy, Rose, and Sophia made a Miami house of residence into a stage for comedy, insight, and cheesecake. Years later, the jokes still hit home, and the subjects’ friendship, getting older, stick-to-it-iveness continue to be ageless. Each visit is like meeting up with old friends, with lots of attitude to boot.

2. Only Murders in the Building

Part whodunit, part sitcom hangout, Only Murders in the Building blends true-crime fixation with clever humor and unexpected sentiment. Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez are an unlikely but charming ensemble, and the show’s richly layered mysteries require and repay multiple viewings. Catching new clues and references with successive viewings makes the Arconia seem like a building it’s worth visiting again.

1. Band of Brothers

You might find it surprising to look at a World War II miniseries at the top of a comfort list, but Band of Brothers has a unique brand of staying power. The tale of Easy Company is rich, multi-layered, and full of brotherhood that gets you feeling attached each time you watch it again. With each rewatch comes new performances (you’ll recognize lots of future stars) and further emotional depth. It’s compelling, poignant, and in some ways comforting in its depiction of resilience and fraternity.

Whether you crave light laughs, cathartic weeping, or a little bit of both, these shows are the ultimate streaming comfort food. So grab a snack, settle in on the couch, and allow yourself to sink into something cozy and rewatchably infinite.

Gene Hackman wasn’t the typical leading man—he was a master of transformation. One moment he could be intimidating, the next wryly funny, and then quietly heartbreaking when you least expected it. With his passing last week at the age of 95, Hollywood is reflecting on a career that spanned five decades and more than 80 films. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just exploring his work, these ten performances highlight why Hackman will forever be remembered as one of cinema’s greatest actors.

10. Welcome to Mooseport (2004)

Hackman’s last on-screen appearance wasn’t a gritty drama or Oscar-bidder; it was a light comedy. Cast as a retired president who vies with Ray Romano for the position of small-town mayor, Hackman added warmth and humor to otherwise flimsy material. Although it’s not his best-known work, it’s an appropriate conclusion: even in a comedy, he exhibited dignity and presence.

9. The Birdcage (1996)

As Senator Kevin Keeley, Hackman played the stiff conservative dropped into the most chaotic dinner of his life. Surrounded by flamboyant characters, he kept a straight face until the unforgettable finale, le where he ended up in full drag. Hackman’s ability to ground the comedy while fully committing to the absurd showed just how versatile he was.

8. Get Shorty (1995)

In Barry Sonnenfeld’s Hollywood spoof, Hackman turned the tables on his tough-guy image. As Harry Zimm, a down-on-his-luck producer who was in over his head, Hackman played desperation and cowardice with wicked self-consciousness. Seeing him parody the industry he’d mastered was one of the movie’s highlights and a sign that he never did take himself too seriously.

7. Night Moves (1975)

Hackman’s Harry Moseby is a detective falling apart, and Hackman portrays him with despairing quietness. A nod, a step, a shift of the eyes all contribute to an impression of a man disintegrating. The film is a cult hit with noir enthusiasts, and Hackman’s low-key, exhausted acting is a main contributor to its continued appeal.

6. Hoosiers (1986)

Few sports movies endure as long as Hoosiers, and Coach Norman Dale is its beating heart, played by Hackman. He shuns clichés by portraying Dale as imperfect, obstinate, yet somehow worthy of redemption. Instead of big speeches, Hackman presented us with a man painstakingly regaining trust and redemption, the foundation for one of America’s greatest underdog tales.

5. Mississippi Burning (1988)

In his role as FBI agent Rupert Anderson, Hackman walked the thin line between suave and threatening, mirroring America’s civil rights conflicts’ moral ambiguity. His multi-level performance netted him another Oscar nomination and demonstrated his versatility in serious, politically loaded dramas.

4. The Conversation (1974)

Francis Ford Coppola’s thriller thrives or perishes on Hackman’s restraint. As surveillance specialist Harry Caul, he shed his characteristic charm to portray a reserved, paranoid character tormented by his job. The genius of the performance is that what Hackman doesn’t say, each silence, each pause, rings heavy. In the current age of widespread surveillance, the film is more timely than ever.

3. The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)

Royal Tenenbaum was specifically written for Hackman, and he gave one of his finest late-period performances. As the self-absorbed, manipulative patriarch of Wes Anderson’s kooky clan, Hackman was hilarious, exasperating, and strangely endearing all at once. His capacity to find humanity in an extremely flawed man transformed a quirky comedy into something profoundly moving.

2. Unforgiven (1992)

Clint Eastwood’s rethinking of the western provided Hackman with the opportunity to act as one of his most memorable heavies. As Sheriff Little Bill Daggett, Hackman tempered power, sadism, and unanticipated kindness—occasionally all at once. The performance netted him his second Oscar and redefined what a Western could be.

1. The French Connection (1971)

Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle was the iconic role that launched Hackman into stardom and forever altered the template for crime dramas. Gritty, fixated, and anything but slick, Doyle was not an escapist Hollywood hero; he was dirty, human, and utterly compelling. Hackman’s Oscar-winning turn established the template for decades of hard-boiled, morally complicated cops in the movies.

The Lasting Legacy

What distinguished Gene Hackman was not the Oscars or the box office figures, but his ability to become one with each part. He never appeared to be acting; he appeared to be those individuals, whether a small-town high school coach, a paranoid loner, or a corrupt sheriff. These ten performances are some of the best, but they represent only a portion of a career that is still one of the richest in American cinema history. Hackman didn’t just act; he made characters unforgettable. And that’s why, long after the credits roll, we’ll keep coming back to his work.

Think you’ve already explored everything HBO Max has to offer? Think again. While the platform is packed with big-name hits, award-winning dramas, and major blockbuster releases, some of its best content often flies under the radar. Hidden among the headline titles are fantastic films and series that many viewers discover purely by chance—only to end up recommending them to everyone they know. From overlooked shows to quietly brilliant movies, here are 10 underrated gems on HBO Max that deserve a spot on your watchlist, counting down from number 10 to the one you absolutely shouldn’t miss.

10. My Favorite Wife (1940)

Timeless Hollywood never goes out of style, and this screwball classic is evidence. With Irene Dunne and Cary Grant, the movie tells the story of Ellen (Dunne), who comes back home from years of being stranded on a deserted island, to find that her husband is set to remarry. In comes chaos, funny repartee, and a heap of canny misunderstandings. It’s less than 90 minutes long, making it a quick, witty reminder of why the screwball comedies have been timeless.

9. Lost River (2014)

Ryan Gosling’s debut as a director isn’t your average indie; it’s a surreal, dreamlike vision of rotting Detroit that is a fairy tale and a nightmare in equal measure. Christina Hendricks is a single mom struggling to get by while her son investigates the remnants of an underwater city. Eerily shot by Benoît Debie and with sinister performances from Ben Mendelsohn and Matt Smith, Lost River is eerie, odd, and visually captivating.

8. Inherent Vice (2014)

Paul Thomas Anderson’s take on the Thomas Pynchon book is haphazard, trippy, and utterly addictive. Joaquin Phoenix plays stoner detective Doc Sportello, who muddles through a surreal 1970s mystery populated by offbeat characters. Attempting to keep up with the plot is nigh on impossible, but that’s the idea. This is a movie about vibes, paranoia, and lost love wrapped in fuzzy comedy.

7. The Woman King (2022)

Viola Davis dominates the screen in this epic historical set during the Agojie, 19th-century West Africa’s all-female army. Full of stunning action set pieces and tour-de-force performances (chief among them Lashana Lynch, who steals every scene), The Woman King was unfairly overlooked on its release. It’s inspiring, fearless, and one of the greatest modern epics.

6. Martha Marcy May Marlene (2011)

Elizabeth Olsen’s breakout performance is chilling and memorable. She stars as a young woman trying to rejoin her family after escaping a cult with the traumatic memories of what she left behind. Set against its eerie mood and Olsen’s multi-faceted performance, this indie drama is heartbreaking and impossible to forget.

5. Paris, Texas (1984)

A quiet masterpiece from Wim Wenders, Paris, Texas tells the story of Travis (Harry Dean Stanton) as he reconnects with his young son and searches for his estranged wife. Sweeping landscapes, luminous cinematography, and one of the most emotional father-son stories in film history make it an essential watch. This isn’t just a movie, it’s an experience.

4. Priscilla (2023)

Sofia Coppola approaches Priscilla Presley’s life with her signature dreamlike flair. Cailee Spaeny is terrific in the lead, carrying the arc from a starry-eyed teenager caught up in Elvis’s whirlwind to a woman regaining her agency. Effortless, quiet, and finely drawn, it’s a coming-of-age tale and a quiet uprising.

3. Kimi (2022)

Steven Soderbergh’s slender, chic thriller tracks Zoë Kravitz as an agoraphobic call center employee who finds herself a witness to a brutal crime while listening to voice data. What ensues is a low-key, contemporary twist on surveillance, privacy, and paranoia. Kimi clocks in at just 89 minutes and doesn’t squander a single one of them, acid-tipped, streamlined, and riveting.

2. Turtles All the Way Down (2024)

Based on John Green’s book, this sentimental coming-of-age drama stars Aza (Isabela Merced), a teenager dealing with OCD, as she assists a friend in finding a missing tycoon. It’s sweet, hilarious, and unflinching in its handling of mental illness, buoyed by Merced’s profoundly affecting performance. A YA adaptation that manages to get it just right for a change.

1. Aftersun (2022)

Charlotte Wells’ first feature is a gut-punch in the best possible way. Paul Mescal is a young dad on vacation with his daughter (Frankie Corio), and the movie tastefully assembles memory, loss, and love with heartbreaking exactness. The now-infamous “Under Pressure” sequence will shatter you, and linger with you far past the end credits.

So, next time you’re scrolling HBO Max and feeling like you’ve seen it all, skip the obvious picks and dive into these overlooked gems. From cult oddities to indie heartbreakers, these films prove that sometimes the best stories are the ones hiding in plain sight.

Forget the Ivy League hype—many stars from Hollywood, music, and sports actually began their college journeys at schools most people wouldn’t expect. While names like Harvard or Yale might look impressive on paper, some of today’s biggest celebrities got their start at community colleges, state universities, or programs they didn’t even finish. In many ways, those unconventional paths make their stories even more fascinating. Let’s take a look at 15 surprising colleges attended by well-known celebrities, counting down in reverse order to keep things a little more exciting.

15. Tom Hanks – Chabot College

Before he was America’s movie dad, Tom Hanks was a student at Chabot College, a California community college. He’s mentioned more than once that his time there defined who he was. After transferring to Cal State Sacramento, he ultimately flunked out to become an actor full-time, and the rest, as they say, is movie history.

14. Robin Williams – College of Marin

Comedy mastermind Robin Williams began at California’s community college, the College of Marin, before moving on to Juilliard. His family later established a scholarship program at Marin to assist future drama students pursuing the same dream.

13. Lady Gaga – NYU Tisch School of the Arts

At the age of 17, Stefani Germanotta (yes, Lady Gaga pre-fame) matriculated at NYU’s Tisch. She experienced the full college dorm experience, majored in performance, and then, like typical Gaga, dropped out to play by her own rules in music. Daring move, stunning outcome.

12. Pau Gasol – University of Barcelona

Pau Gasol was going to be a doctor before he became an NBA legend. Gazing in awe at Magic Johnson’s announcement that he had HIV, he went to med school at the University of Barcelona. Basketball diverted him elsewhere, but that intellect never deserted.

11. Ken Jeong – Duke & UNC-Chapel Hill

Yes, The Hangover’s Mr. Chow is in real life, Dr. Ken Jeong. He pre-med at Duke, MDed at UNC, and practiced medicine while performing stand-up on the side. Eventually, stand-up prevailed after he had already proven he could be successful at both.

10. Amy Tan – San Jose City College (and a few more)

Before The Joy Luck Club became a bestseller, Amy Tan bounced her way through San Jose City College and four others en route to an English and linguistics degree. Her non-traditional path ultimately spawned one of literature’s most significant voices.

9. Mayim Bialik – UCLA

On The Big Bang Theory, she was a scientist. In real life? No different. Mayim Bialik rejected an Ivy League acceptance to study at UCLA, where she ultimately received a PhD in neuroscience. That ain’t acting, she’s the genuine article.

8. Morgan Freeman – Los Angeles City College

Freeman’s iconic voice was partly formed at Los Angeles City College, where he took classes after serving in the Air Force. He credits LACC with enabling him to drop his voice an octave, a sound that would become a hallmark of his career.

7. George Lucas – Modesto Junior College

The creator of Star Wars began life as a Modesto Junior College student who lived and breathed cars and auto racing. A crash changed his direction, and after he transferred to the film school at USC, he created a galaxy far, far away.

6. Jessica Chastain – Sacramento City College

Before Juilliard and the Oscars, Jessica Chastain was developing her skills at Sacramento City College. She enrolled in the drama program and debate team, then won a scholarship that sent her to Juilliard testimony that top-of-the-line talent can emerge from anywhere.

5. Billy Crystal – Nassau Community College

Billy Crystal did not enter the limelight straight away—first, he learned directing and filmmaking at Nassau Community College in New York. After that, he went to NYU, where his instructor was none other than Martin Scorsese.

4. Queen Latifah – Borough of Manhattan Community College

Before becoming a multi-hyphenate superstar, Queen Latifah was balancing BMCC classes with her music career. Juggling rap and school was the precursor to the career behemoth she would become.

3. Arnold Schwarzenegger – Santa Monica College

Just off the plane from Austria, Arnold set foot in higher education at Santa Monica College for business and ESL courses. There, a counselor urged him to pursue more than language studies, imparting skills he would utilize as an actor, businessman, and even governor. 

2. Jackie Robinson – Pasadena City College

Long before Jackie Robinson broke baseball’s color barrier, he was dominating as a multi-sport star at Pasadena City College. He headed to UCLA and lettered in four sports, becoming the first person to do so, a legend in the making from day one. 

1. Oprah Winfrey – Tennessee State University

Oprah’s ascent started with a scholarship to Tennessee State University after she won an oratory competition and a pageant. That was the foundation for her transformation from student to queen of daytime television and beyond.

It turns out you don’t have to have a glossy Ivy League degree to become a superstar. From state colleges to surprise state schools, these celebrities show that drive, enthusiasm, and chance are so much more important than where you begin. Success, it appears, can arise from just about anywhere.

Hollywood may appear dazzling from the outside, with its red carpets, flashing cameras, and constant attention, but life in the spotlight can be far more demanding than it seems. The pressure, scrutiny, and relentless pace of fame can take a toll, leading some celebrities to eventually walk away from it all. While many spend their careers chasing the spotlight, others decide to leave the industry behind in search of a quieter, more fulfilling life. From a chart-topping rap star who transitioned into fashion to a well-known performer who chose to focus on family and life at home, several famous names have stepped away from Hollywood entirely. Here are 16 celebrities who left the entertainment world behind and the surprising paths they chose instead.

16. Karyn Parsons

As Bel-Air’s Hilary Banks, Karyn Parsons was a sitcom legend. But when her show Lush Life was cancelled, she went in a different direction. She moved to New York, pursued a course of study in filmmaking, began a family, and founded Sweet Blackberry, a nonprofit organization that tells untold stories of Black history to children. “My interests were changing. I have no regrets whatsoever. My life is wonderful,” she’s said.

15. Michael J. Fox

The iconic Back to the Future actor revealed his retirement in 2020 after suffering from memory loss on set during The Good Fight shooting. His move was reminiscent of the experience of characters he had played earlier, knowing when to take a step back. For Fox, the decision was poignant but left an enduring legacy of hope and resilience.

14. Mary-Kate & Ashley Olsen

After serving as the faces of Full House and dozens of tween films, the Olsen twins exchanged scripts for sketchpads. Following their 2004 film New York Minute, they transitioned and created fashion empires, The Row and Elizabeth & James. Spotted out in public on occasion nowadays, Mary-Kate and Ashley have wholly accepted their roles as designers rather than actresses.

13. Grace Kelly

Grace Kelly possessed it all: an Oscar, Alfred Hitchcock movies, and global fame. But at only 26 years of age, she stunned the world by retiring from Hollywood to wed Prince Rainier III of Monaco. As Princess Grace, she devoted herself to philanthropy and domestic life, leaving the most refined legacy in Hollywood annals.

12. Phoebe Cates

With Fast Times at Ridgemont High and Gremlins, Phoebe Cates solidified her status as an ’80s icon. By the mid-’90s, however, she retired to raise children with husband Kevin Kline. Except for a very brief 2001 comeback, Phoebe has remained retired, now operating Blue Tree, a New York City boutique.

11. Jane Fonda

Jane Fonda left fans stunned when she quit in 1991 after marrying media tycoon Ted Turner. She believed then that her acting career was behind her. But in 2005, after they divorced, she made a comeback to Hollywood with Monster-in-Law and subsequently Grace and Frankie. She had this to say about her break: “I left for 15 years. I feel very lucky.”

10. Ke Huy Quan

From Indiana Jon, es where he was called Short Ro, und to The Goo,nies where he was referred to as Data, Ke Huy Quan fell off the radar for about 20 years because there were no opportunities for Asian actors. He took up work as a stunt coordinator instead. Inspired by Crazy Rich Asians, he made a dramatic return in Everything Everywhere All at Once and won an Oscar, and got cast in Kung Fu Panda 4 and The White Lotus.

9. Brendan Fraser

Brendan Fraser ruled the late ’90s with The Mummy and other hits before health issues and personal demons drove him from the limelight. Years away from Hollywood, his powerful turn in The Whale brought anOscar, and brought him back to fans who’d been championing his comeback all along.

8. Ian Somerhalder

From Lost to The Vampire Diaries, Ian Somerhalder was beloved by fans. But in 2019, he chose to leave acting behind. Now, he resides on a farm with his wife, Nikki Reed, and their kids, along with pursuing business ventures and making documentaries about sustainable agriculture. “I loved what I did for a long time,” he explained. “I don’t miss any of it.”

7. Evangeline Lilly

Evangeline Lilly became popular on Lost and entered the world of Marvel with the Ant-Man franchise. But then, in 2024, she announced that she was abandoning Hollywood to pursue her humanitarian endeavors and personal satisfaction. “Walking away from what feels like the obvious path (fame and wealth) can be intimidating,” she posted, “but walking into your dharma swaps the fear with fulfillment.”

6. Cameron Diaz

From The Mask to Charlie’s Angels to Shrek, Cameron Diaz was ubiquitous until 2014, when she took a hiatus after Annie. She called her decade-long absence “the best 10 years” of her life, dedicating it to family and giving birth to daughter Raddix. Recently, however, she returned with Back in Action with Jamie Foxx.

5. Rick Moranis

Comedy icon Rick Moranis appeared in Ghostbusters, Honey, I Shrunk the Kids, and Spaceballs. But since his wife died in 1991, he was left to bring up their kids, formally retiring by 1997. Other than some voice-over work, Rick has avoided the limelight. “I found I didn’t miss it,” he conceded.

4. Bridget Fonda

Cousin of Jane Fonda and daughter of Peter Fonda, Bridget established her own career through Single White Female and Jackie Brown. After 2002, however, she retired quietly to raise her family with composer Danny Elfman. When asked if she’d ever act again, she replied curtly: “No. I don’t think so. It’s too nice being a civilian.” 

3. Shelley Duvall

With unforgettable performances in The Shining and Popeye, Shelley Duvall was once ubiquitous. But in 2002, she stepped back from Hollywood to tend her family in Texas. She reappeared briefly for an indie film before dying in July 2024. “It’s the longest sabbatical I ever took,” she once declared. “But it was for really important reasons to get in touch with my family again.”

2. Gene Hackman

Two-time Oscar winner Gene Hackman officially retired after 2004’s Welcome to Mooseport. He has since lived a peaceful existence in New Mexico, working on novels and spending time in retirement. “The business for me is very stressful,” he said, “and it had gotten to the point where I just didn’t feel like I wanted to do it anymore.”

1. Daniel Day-Lewis

Famous for melting into his parts, Daniel Day-Lewis is the sole winner of three Best Actor Academy Awards. In 2017, following Phantom Thread, he declared himself retired from acting. “This is a personal choice, and neither he nor his representatives will say anything else on the matter.” To his word, he has stayed hidden from view.

Life After the Spotlight

These stars left Hollywood behind, but in so many ways, the real drama of their lives only began after the cameras stopped filming. Whatever path they took, family, philanthropy, fashion, or farming, they demonstrated there’s life, and frequently happiness, beyond fame.

A weak ending can ruin even the most promising movie. You might spend the entire film invested in the story and characters, only for the final moments to leave you confused, disappointed, or wondering why the journey ended that way. Sometimes the conclusion feels rushed, sometimes it makes no sense, and other times it completely undermines everything that came before it. Whatever the reason, a poorly executed finale can overshadow an otherwise great film. Here’s a look at 10 movies whose baffling or disappointing endings managed to undo much of the goodwill they built along the way, earning them a spot among the most frustrating conclusions in cinema.

10. The Grey

Liam Neeson vs. wolves—what could go wrong? The setup for The Grey is survivalist gold: after a plane crash, Neeson’s character leads a pack of men through the Alaskan bush, stalked by a pack of killing wolves. The tension mounts to a fever pitch, and the trailer suggests an epic battle of man against beast. But as one enraged viewer recounts, the film ends just as Neeson is poised to meet the alpha wolf for the very first time, cutting to black before the fight has even begun. Not even the post-credits shot, in which the man and wolf both lie out in survival mode, does anything to shed light on the situation. As Robert Vaux and Fawzia Khan say, “audiences were set up for a suspenseful and action-filled fight between Ottway and the wolves, but it ended rather anticlimactically.”

9. Thor: Ragnarok

Connected narratives are what Marvel films are well known for, but sometimes continuity comes at the expense of a satisfying ending. Thor: Ragnarok is a wild, colorful ride in which Thor, Loki, and their companions fight to salvage Asgard. They win—sort of—so that the film can have an instant setup for the next huge crossover, Avengers: Infinity War, when Thanos kills fleeing Asgardians. The heroes’ victory is soon reversed, so that in the end, the audience feels that the film surrendered its conclusion to the greater Marvel machine. As Robert Vaux and Fawzia Khan observe, “the protagonists do nothing, and the Asgardians get killed anyway.”

8. The Accountant

Ben Affleck’s The Accountant is a glossy, action-packed thriller with a mysterious lead and plenty of suspense. But when the big twist finally arrives—Jon Bernthal’s character being Affleck’s secret brother—it falls flat. The film gives away nothing in advance toward this reality, making it random rather than earned. According to Robert Vaux and Fawzia Khan, “the big reveal of the movie is no more than an announcement. Stories must be able to hold up, start to finish.”

7. Spectre

James Bond fans waited years for Blofeld, the best Bond bad guy, played in this one by Christoph Waltz. Spectre spends most of its time setting up the character as the behind-the-scenes mastermind of all of Bond’s suffering. But then the climactic confrontation arrives, and it fails: Bond simply shoots at Blofeld’s helicopter, and it goes down, and the villain is taken down easily. As one of the Reddit commenters opined, all that build-up for so anticlimactic a defeat left the fans in disappointment. According to Redditor dontforgetyourshoes, “All that setup for Christoph Waltz’s character. And then Bond just shoots up his helicopter a few times with a pistol, it blows up, and he gets apprehended.”

6. Sunshine

Danny Boyle’s Sunshine is a slow-burning, visually impressive sci-fi film about a group trying to re-ignite the dying sun. It’s a tense, character-driven drama for the majority of its duration. Then, out of nowhere, the movie goes into slasher mode with a human villain who obliterates the mission. This jolting genre shift confused and annoyed most fans. As one Redditor lamented, the ending “attempts to be Event Horizon and destroys all it was heading towards.” Redditor Tisdue stated, “Out of nowhere, it attempts to be Event Horizon and destroys all it was heading towards. So disappointing.“

5. Pay It Forward

Pay It Forward is about kindness, goodness, and goodwill in the world. So for the film to end with its young hero, Trevor, stabbed to death in meaningless violence, is a shock. The ending is so bleak and out of sync with the film’s uplifting message that people were left reeling. As a Redditor put it, “The ending is so woefully sad, and they did not have to end it that way.” Another Redditor stated, “The Pay It Forward shock death was a Shameless Oscar-grab.“

4. Now You See Me

A heist thriller featuring stage magicians pulling off impossible heists? Sign us up! Now You See Me sparkles with its snappy tricks and twisty plot—until the final reveal, which suggests that magic might exist, and that the FBI agent tracking down the magicians is a mole from their side. The twist of the movie is so confusingly and poorly explained that it left everyone scratching their heads.

3. The Village

M. Night Shyamalan is the master of the twist ending, but the worst offender is The Village. The film creates an unsettling, isolated 19th-century village under attack from supernatural creatures lurking in the woods. The twist? It’s actually modern-day, and the monsters are just townsfolk wearing masks. Critics and audiences were let down by the twist, which derailed the entire conceit.

2. Remember Me

Remember Me is a romantic drama that spends the majority of its time discussing grief, love, and family. Then, at the very end, it’s revealed that the protagonist is waiting in the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. The revelation was so sudden and exploitative that audiences were left speechless and outraged. Employing a real tragedy as a last-minute plot twist was universally criticized as tacky and manipulative. In The Independent, “The last-minute twist — that Pattinson is inside the World Trade Center, seconds before the 9/11 terrorist strikes — is so atrociously misjudged that it made the film into some kind of bad-taste joke.”

1. The Mist

Frank Darabont’s adaptation of Stephen King’s The Mist is a masterclass in suspense and terror, up to the end. In a gut-wrenching twist, the hero, believing all is lost, kills his friends to protect them from the monsters outside, just as the military troops soon thereafter arrive to save the day. The abruptness and brutality of the ending divided audiences, with some cheering its shock value while others condemned it as needlessly sick.

There you go—the conclusions that made us cringe, seethe, or just blankly stare at the screen. Occasionally, the journey is worth it, but oh, how we wish these films had stuck the landing.

Entertainment has always pushed boundaries, and the growing visibility of trans and nonbinary individuals is taking that progress even further—often in remarkable ways. These trailblazers aren’t just shaping the industry with their talent; they’re also helping make it more inclusive, compassionate, and forward-thinking. In this post, we highlight eight transgender and nonbinary pioneers, ranked in reverse order by the impact of their work, advocacy, and authenticity, each leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.

8. Susan Stryker

Before there was even the concept of trans studies, Susan Stryker was the person who cleared the path. She redefined the concept of the essay with her disruptive text in 1993, “My Words to Victor Frankenstein Above the Village of Chamounix”, which she very memorably did in a performance that united intellect and activism; she was wearing combat boots and a ripped Transgender Nation t-shirt. By doing so, she made room for trans artists and scholars to be recognized, listened to, and valued, and in a lot of ways, she was a pioneer in both the academic world and the outside world as well.

7. Dylan Mulvaney

Dylan Mulvaney’s “Days of Girlhood” TikTok series, which has amassed one billion views, has won its popularity through the combination of humor, love, and creative representation. As a result, Dylan has taken the switch to a movement from Broadway to a sold-out Edinburgh Fringe show and a NYT Best-Seller, Paperdoll: Notes of a Late Bloomer. The money that was collected at their live show at The Rainbow Room was almost $200,000 for The Trevor Project, thus making the point that, indeed, trans joy can be both viral and ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌transformational.

6. Peppermint

Peppermint was one of the first out trans contestants to compete on RuPaul’s Drag Race and went on to be the first trans woman to create a principal role on Broadway in Head Over Heels. Outside of the stage, she is the first-ever Artist Ambassador for Trans Justice with the ACLU, raises money for LGBTQ+ groups, hosts her own podcast, Black Queer Town Hall, and stars in Netflix’s Survival of the Thickest and Hulu’s Fire Island. Peppermint proves you can be a performer and a tireless advocate.

5. Alex Newell

Alex Newell’s powerhouse vocals and magnetic stage presence have redefined what it means to shine on Broadway. With a Tony win for SHUCKED, a Grammy nomination, and nine Tony nods for Once On This Island, Alex has shattered ceilings while celebrating individuality. Recognized by TIME 100 Next and Variety’s New Power of New York, they prove that a Broadway star doesn’t need to fit a binary to leave their indelible mark.

4. L Morgan Lee

L Morgan Lee is an incredible force unto themselves within theatre. A Tony, Drama League, and Lortel award nominee and Obie winner for A Strange Loop, Lee focuses on nuanced storytelling that has often gone untold. Beyond performing, Lee works as a director, writer, educator, and advisory board member with Breaking the Binary Theatre Company to shape inclusive theatre for the next generation.

3. Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox became a household name for her role as Sophia Burset on Orange is the New Black, where she made history as the first openly transgender actress nominated for a Primetime Emmy. She’s also produced impactful documentaries like The T Word and Disclosure, starring in such shows as Inventing Anna and Promising Young Woman, while using her platform to fight for trans rights. Cox has helped change how the world sees and talks about transgender lives.

2.​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ Mj Rodriguez & the Cast of Pose

Pose not only broke the mold but also changed the whole concept of representation. The series focused on the lives of trans people of color both as characters and crew members, and in response, dealt with issues such as AIDS, racism, and poverty while still being able to present ballroom culture and high-energy storytelling. Mj Rodriguez, Dominique Jackson, Indya Moore, Hailie Sahar, and Angelica Ross didn’t just become icons-they proved that real representation has the power to educate, entertain, and inspire at the same time.

1. Billy Porter

Billy Porter exemplifies one of the bravest things in the world without any dilution. He made history at The Emmys, being the first openly gay Black man to win in a leading role for Pose, but his influence is way beyond accolades. Porter coaches the next generation of artists, defies the limits of fashion on the red carpet, and is, without a doubt, the most fabulous, femme, and leading man kind of character if such a thing exists. He has forever changed the cultural conversation through his unapologetic authenticity.

Trans and nonbinary people coming to terms with themselves and the world is not only about the fact that they get roles in shows and movies, but also about the recognition and respect that they receive, and the fact that they are celebrated.

Nonnegative representation gives power and support, and often it is a matter of life and death, as every research done by The Trevor Project clearly shows. We owe the present and the future of entertainment to these pioneers, by whom it has become bigger, bolder, and more inclusive than ever. The stage has become wider, the stories more diverse, and the future is ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌brighter.