What​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ Hollywood almost always does is that a lot of the time, the biggest plot twists aren’t even shown in the movie. Besides last-minute changes to the script, fights at the location, or even accidents, changes in the cast have more times than not changed the way the film people known. It doesn’t matter if it was a switch that made a movie go back on track or one that caused a surprise among the viewers; these changes are the signs that the background drama can be equal to the one in the screenplay. Below are ten of the most incredible recasts of ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌history.

10. Janet Hubert – Daphne Maxwell Reid in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air

For three years, Janet Hubert portrayed Aunt Viv, holding her own against Will Smith. And then, suddenly—bam—she was gone. The reasons behind the scenes were contract negotiation issues and escalating tension with Smith, and she was replaced by Daphne Maxwell Reid. The series never acted as if nothing had occurred; indeed, it even made light of the switch later on. Years later, a reunion special finally put an end to one of TV’s most infamous casting shakeups.

9. Nicole Kidman – Jodie Foster in Panic Room

Nicole Kidman was initially cast in David Fincher’s thriller Panic Room, but a Moulin Rouge! The injury led her to bow out after production was already underway. In came Jodie Foster, who infused the role with her characteristic coolness and intensity. In retrospect, Kidman confessed she was in pretty bad shape at the time and thankful Foster was available to fill the gap. Now it’s difficult to imagine the film otherwise.

8. Richard Harris – Michael Gambon in Harry Potter

With the death of Richard Harris, the first Dumbledore, after Chamber of Secrets, people were wondering who would replace him. Michael Gambon took over from Prisoner of Azkaban and played the role through the rest of the series. His hot-blooded vigor pitted against Harris’s more gentle interpretation, causing fans to have endless arguments on the subject—but both contributed their place in Hogwarts lore.

7. Chris Farley – Mike Myers in Shrek

Few know that Chris Farley had already voiced most of Shrek’s lines before his untimely death. When Mike Myers was hired on, he didn’t merely complete the task—he entirely rearranged it. Myers got the script redone to his liking and even re-dubbed it in Scottish brogue, which became Shrek’s trademark. The film went on to become an instant classic, but its origins are poignant.

6. Eric Stoltz – Michael J. Fox in Back to the Future

Yes, Eric Stoltz was indeed Marty McFly—at least for a few weeks. But his darker, brooding interpretation wasn’t working, and the filmmakers never lost sight of Michael J. Fox, who had been tied up with Family Ties. When his schedule finally freed up, the switch was made, and Stoltz’s material was abandoned. Fox’s comedic zest transformed Marty into the one we know today.

5. Ross Butler – Charles Melton in Riverdale

Reggie Mantle appeared slightly different post-season one of Riverdale. Ross Butler departed to concentrate on 13 Reasons Why, and Charles Melton took his place without missing a beat. In typical Riverdale fashion, the show subsequently had both actors appear together as a result of a parallel universe twist—naturally.

4. James Remar – Michael Biehn in Aliens

James Remar was initially cast as Corporal Hicks, but following an arrest for drug possession while filming, he was replaced by Michael Biehn. Remar has spoken candidly of the experience, conceding his difficulties at the time. Biehn subsequently turned Hicks into a fan favorite, but Remar’s short off-camera stint is one of the sci-fi community’s great “what-ifs.”

3. Ruby Rose – Javicia Leslie in Batwoman

Ruby Rose was in the news when she became the first actress to portray Batwoman, but when things took a tough turn for her during season one—a back injury—she left. Rather than directly recasting Kate Kane, the show brought on a completely new Batwoman: Ryan Wilder, played by Javicia Leslie. Leslie’s new interpretation breathed fresh air into the show, setting another precedent for superhero diversity on television.

2. Kevin Spacey – Christopher Plummer in All the Money in the World

With allegations of misconduct against Kevin Spacey having surfaced, Ridley Scott took the dramatic decision to excise him completely from the almost complete film All the Money in the World. Ridley called on Christopher Plummer at breakneck speed, and he did nine days of reshoots. The gamble paid off—Plummer was nominated for an Oscar, and the film escaped being overshadowed by scandal.

1. Paul Walker – CGI & Family Stand-Ins in Fast & Furious 7

Paul Walker’s untimely death during the middle of filming Furious 7 broke the hearts of fans and producers alike. Rather than casting someone to take his place, the studio decided to pay tribute. Through a combination of CGI, unused scenes, and Paul’s brothers as body doubles, they wrapped up his character arc in a manner that was an end and a tribute all at once. The effect was one of the most tearful moments in franchise history—and a sendoff that left viewers sobbing.

Actor replacements are nothing new, but the stories behind them often become as legendary as the shows and films themselves. Sometimes the switch saves a project, sometimes it reshapes it entirely—and now and then, it leaves us wondering how different things might have been.

Most​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ of the time, a departure from a hit series is the riskiest move an actor can make. Sometimes it happens because of money, sometimes because of conflicts in the creative process, and sometimes just because of bad timing. Still, the examples of these stories demonstrate that choosing to leave a show can have a very different effect on your ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌profession.

10. Crystal Reed – Teen Wolf

Crystal Reed was so intent on leaving Teen Wolf behind that she requested her character be written off. But her career never quite gained momentum thereafter, and nearly a decade after that, she came back for the franchise’s film revival. Fans on Reddit regularly use her as a poster child for departing too early and finding out the grass isn’t always greener.

9. Tamzin Merchant – Game of Thrones

Before Emilia Clarke turned Daenerys Targaryen into an icon, Tamzin Merchant donned the crown for the unaired Game of Thrones pilot. She departed early and moved on to steady work in Salem and Carnival Row, but losing out on Westeros is still one of TV’s greatest “what ifs.” Clarke’s Daenerys became synonymous with the show’s identity, making Merchant’s exit a lingering mystery.

8. Stuart Townsend – The Lord of the Rings

In the initial cast as Aragorn, Stuart Townsend was released when he did not completely immerse himself in training and rehearsals. Viggo Mortensen took his place on the first day of shooting, and the rest is movie history. Townsend’s career never regained the same level of success, reminding us all of how preparation destroys and creates opportunities. 

7. Terrence Howard – Iron Man

As Col. Jim Rhodes, Terrence Howard was, in fact, the most well-paid actor in Iron Man. But compensation disagreements and alleged clashes prompted Marvel to replace him with Don Cheadle. Howard’s career slowed down subsequently, while Cheadle proceeded to establish the role of War Machine throughout the MCU. For Marvel, Howard’s departure soon became Cheadle’s acquisition.

6. Katie Holmes – Batman Begins

Katie Holmes left an impression as Rachel Dawes in Batman Begins, but refused to come back for The Dark Knight, instead appearing in Mad Mone, a movie that disappeared without a splash. Maggie Gyllenhaal took over the role, and The Dark Knight went on to become a cultural phenomenon. Holmes’ subsequent refusal to accept roles such as Orange Is the New Black only served to reinforce her image as a missed opportunity actress.

5. Macaulay Culkin – Home Alone

Few child stars have ever been as big as Macaulay Culkin. But after Home Alone 2, he quit acting altogether, leaving the third movie to a new kid. Culkin later revealed that the family struggles and legal battles pushed him to step back. Though he’s returned for occasional roles, his decision remains one of the most famous early exits in Hollywood history.

4. John Boyega – Star Wars

John Boyega’s Finn was center stage in The Force Awakens, but by The Rise of Skywalker, he’d had enough. Boyega publicly discussed his grievances against Disney, charging that the studio was pushing aside Black characters for others. His honesty set off headlines and made his departure a bigger discussion about race and representation in big blockbuster franchises.

3. Sean Connery – James Bond and The Lord of the Rings

Sean Connery’s tumultuous relationship with James Bond included departing, returning, and departing again. But the greater surprise might have been his turning down Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings, a part that could have earned him close to half a billion dollars. He admitted to never even reading the script to the end. Evidence that legends, too, are capable of making career decisions that confuse fans for decades.

2. Michael Keaton – Batman

Michael Keaton set the standard for a generation of Batmen, but when Tim Burton was let go by Joel Schumacher, he quit. Keaton himself has since confessed that he believed the new script “sucked” and didn’t want to destroy his version of the character. His choice paved the way for Val Kilmer and George Clooney, but the series never got back on track until Christopher Nolan rebooted it years later.

1. Vin Diesel – The Fast and the Furious

Was offered $25 million to come back for 2 Fast 2 Furious, but Vin Diesel declined, fearing a hurried sequel would devalue the original movie. He later came back with Tokyo Drift and beyond, making the franchise a worldwide force. His initial rejection became a risk that paid dividends when he came back on his own terms.

Hollywood is full of tales of actors who departed all too early or for the wrong reasons. It’s sometimes a misstep that halts a career, and sometimes an ambitious move that reaps rewards years down the line. However, one thing is certain: in the film and television industry, knowing when to let go is just as crucial as knowing when to hold on.

Initially,​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ Apple TV+ was the least favorable streaming service. However, at present, it is one of the most reliable sources of fresh, innovative, and extremely binge-worthy TV. In case you are a super funny comedy lover, a gripping thriller fan, or a mix of both, the scheduling of the shows of Apple is sure to have something that will catch your attention very soon. So, what shows have come out on top from the fiercest competitors’ battle? We bring to you our list of the top 10 best Apple TV+ original series of all time—not only ranked by the critics but also for their memorable characters, clever interactions, and that “just one more episode” ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌feeling.

10. The Afterparty

Think of a murder mystery that’s a different style each week. That’s The Afterparty. By Christopher Miller (The LEGO Movie, 21 Jump Street), every chapter recuts the night of the murder from somebody new’s point of view—and in an entirely different film genre. With Tiffany Haddish sleuthing with a cast that also features Sam Richardson, Ben Schwartz, and Ilana Glazer, it’s smart and always funny, the ideal take on the whodunit template.

9. Bad Sisters

Half family drama, half dark comedy, Bad Sisters observes the Garvey sisters sticking up for one of their own to handle her abusive, controlling husband. The outcome? A twisty, bite-y, and unexpectedly tender tale that became a sleeper hit for Apple. Sharon Horgan headlines a phenomenal cast, and by season two, the tension (and laughs) are ratcheted up even further.

8. Pachinko

Based on Min Jin Lee’s bestselling novel, Pachinko is a visually stunning, decades-long drama of one Korean family’s struggle to survive and find a place in the world. With stunning cinematography, close storytelling, and show-stealing performances from Youn Yuh-jung and the rest of the cast, this show is as beautiful to watch as it is emotionally shattering. It’s the type of show that haunts you long after you’re done.

7. Mythic Quest

A workplace comedy with a heart, Mythic Quest takes place in the crazy offices of a hit video game studio. Rob McElhenney stars as Ian Grimm, the self-absorbed creative director, with a team of quirky (and endlessly humorous) colleagues played by Danny Pudi, Charlotte Nicdao, and more. It’s cutting, warm, and one of the most purely enjoyable shows that Apple has to offer. 

6. Black Bird

This riveting true-crime thriller makes the prison informant cliche much more disturbing. Taron Egerton stars as Jimmy Keene, who’s sent to extract a confession from convicted serial killer Larry Hall—played with terrifying accuracy by Paul Walter Hauser. The tension doesn’t relent, and the performances are never to be forgotten. At only six episodes, it’s a tightly wound gut punch. 

5. Silo

Hugh Howey’s Wool books are brought to life in this suspenseful, atmospheric science fiction thriller. Rebecca Ferguson plays an engineer who’s determined to discover what lies beneath in the underground silo where humanity’s remnants survive. With its careful world-building and lots of suspense, Silo’s first season captured a devoted fanbase, and the next is already getting us ready for even greater revelations.

4. Ted Lasso

Jason Sudeikis’s Ted Lasso started as a skit for a soccer promotional spot and somehow evolved into one of the decade’s most popular comedies. Ted’s incessant positivity, combined with clever writing and a stellar ensemble cast, made it a phenomenon that was finally a feel-good show and yet still managed to probe deeply enough into questions of loss, friendship, and self-improvement.

3. For All Mankind

This alternate-history series poses the question: What if the Russians beat us to the moon? The answer comes in a complex, ambitious series that combines space-race spectacle with realistic human drama. Ronald D. Moore and his writers provide big ideas and emotional moments in equal measure, and the show gets better still as it broadens its timeline.

2. Slow Horses

Gary Oldman swipes every frame in this clever, dark spy thriller about MI5’s most unglamorous outpost: Slough House, where British intelligence’s misfits and rejectees reside. What begins as a penal station becomes the stage for high-stakes spycraft, black humor, and shockingly sentimental character development. The prose is cutting-edge, and Oldman’s Jackson Lamb is immediately iconic.

1. Severance

Apple’s flagship show, Severance, is a work drama like nothing else. In this darkly clever universe, workers have a procedure that alienates work memories from private ones. Adam Scott heads up an all-star ensemble with Patricia Arquette, John Turturro, and Christopher Walken, in a series that’s half-mystery, half-satire, and half-philosophical thought experiment. It’s disturbing, compulsive, and impossible to get out of your head.

From tear-jerking comedies to edge-of-your-seat thrillers, Apple TV+ has shown it’s not only keeping pace with the streaming behemoths—it’s setting its high bar. The toughest part? Choosing which masterpiece to begin with.

The​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ Marvel Cinematic Universe has been a major source of some of the best characters that have ever been a part of pop culture – Iron Man’s humor, Captain America’s moral principles, and Black Panther’s serene strength, each of them made a strong impression. But, not only that these characters not liked by everyone, the MCU also has quite a few characters that are the least liked superheroes. These characters have been on the receiving end of more groans than cheers because of a combination of factors such as bad writing, miscasting, and missed opportunities. Here are the top 10 most hated MCU characters and the reasons that the fans of these characters could not be persuaded to accept ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌them.

1. Jane Foster (Natalie Portman)

Jane Foster should have been the standout. A talented scientist-turned-superhero, played by Oscar-winning Natalie Portman—what could go wrong? But her appearance in Thor: The Dark World was a narrative afterthought, and Love and Thunder didn’t invest her journey into becoming Mighty Thor with the emotional investment it deserved. Flashing with possibility, Jane’s trajectory petered out instead of taking flight, and her absence in Ragnarok just served to reinforce how little she was missed.

2. Ava Starr / Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen)

Ava Starr was first seen in Ant-Man and the Wasp as a phasing anti-hero seeking a cure. Her powers were visually stunning, but her intentions were unclear, and the character development was virtually non-existent. She teetered on the line between villain and victim, never quite deciding on one side or the other. With Thunderbolts approaching, she might get another opportunity—but she will have much to do to convince us.

3. Bruce Banner (Edward Norton)

Compared to Mark Ruffalo, the viewpoint of Edward Norton was more bleak and restrictive. Still, The Incredible Hulk remains one of the least memorable movies of the MCU, and Norton’s detached, pompous, and emotionally guarded Banner character had no fans. If you add disputes that took place behind the scenes with Marvel Studios to that, then you will understand why the character was changed with no negative reaction from the public.

4. Hank Pym (Michael Douglas)

Hank Pym added vintage gravitas to the Ant-Man movies at first, but by Quantumania, the character was dead weight. Even Michael Douglas conceded he was ready for the character to retire. As the stakes rose throughout the multiverse, Pym’s presence was more of a plot necessity than a worthwhile addition.

5. Korg (Taika Waititi)

Korg was an unexpected delight in Thor: Ragnarok—a charming, relaxed rock alien with impeccable comedic sense. But Love and Thunder cashed in big on the joke, making Korg a scene-stealer whose nonstop commentary shortchanged the film’s emotional moments. What was initially a breath of fresh air soon became too much, proving that even popular humor can wear out its welcome.

6. Ralph Bohner (Evan Peters)

WandaVision got everyone hyped when Evan Peters showed up, apparently bridging the X-Men and MCU. But the punchline—that he was merely some dude named Ralph Bohner—fell flat. What might have been a crossover-changing move became an infuriating bait-and-switch, squandering Peters’ acting chops and hype from fans in an instant.

7. Sersi (Gemma Chan)

Sersi, the frontwoman of Eternal, was supposed to keep the film’s space mythology rooted in emotional depth, but her performance was starchy and lackluster. Although Eternals had so much to cover, Sersi was a soothing presence in a part that required commanding warmth and gravitas. With no sequel on the horizon, a redemption seems in doubt.

8. Danny Rand / Iron Fist (Finn Jones)

It went up and down with the Netflix era of Marvel, and the lowest point was probably Iron Fist. The Iron Fist of Finn Jones was bland, and the total was a lack of charm necessary for a single show. The fights were not impressive, the dialogues were awkward, and the audience went to the side characters, such as Colleen Win, instead of the main one.

9. Peter Quill (Chris Pratt)

Peter Quill went from lovable rogue to public enemy #1 after Infinity War, when his emotional outburst cost the Avengers their best shot at stopping Thanos. While Guardians Vol. 3 gave him a redemptive arc, many fans still haven’t forgiven him. Quill remains a divisive figure—part of Marvel’s heart, but also one of its biggest missteps.

10. John Walker (Wyatt Russell)

On The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, John Walker’s grab for Captain America’s shield was a slap in the face to Steve Rogers’ honor. Wyatt Russell infused him with intensity and depth, but the character’s arrogance and impulsiveness made him unlikable the moment he appeared. He’s set to come back in Thunderbolts, but to many fans, Walker’s still the embodiment of all the things no hero should ever be.

For each Iron Man or Black Panther, there are misfires that the MCU has had. These heroes weren’t necessarily fated to fail from the beginning—they had promise. But somewhere along the way, between quickened storylines, tonal inconsistencies, and lost emotional moments, they fell into Marvel’s hall of shame. But the MCU is always ready for a redemption arc—so who knows? Even the most reviled hero could get one more chance at winning us over.

Some deaths hit us worse than others. In 2025, the world lost legends who did not simply entertain us—those who changed the very culture. From filmmakers who reimagined films to artists who distorted genres, from television stars who made us laugh to athletes who transcended sports, these individuals left behind a legacy that will be felt for centuries. Below are ten of the greatest celebrity deaths of 2025.

10. David Lynch – Sultan of the Unusual

Stranger-maker, yes beauty-maker, David Lynch passed away at 78. The author of Blue Velvet, Mulholland Drive, and, of course, Twin Peaks, Lynch’s movies turned nightmares and reality into a messy blur. His haunting portrayals of dreamscapes and warped Americana did their damage on cinema, anime, and art long beyond Hollywood. Few have made so many who were capable of enjoying the strange.

9. Wink Martindale – The Quiz Show King

Smooth-talking host of Tic-Tac-Dough, Gambit, and more, Wink Martindale has passed away at 91 after a career that spanned over seven decades. A buddy of Elvis and an icon of American television, Martindale made trivia exciting way before smartphones and apps turned it into a game. His charm and pageantry made viewers feel like players, not observers.

8. Michael Madsen – Tarantino’s Tough Guy

Michael Madsen, 67, was made an icon of cool danger by his appearances in Quentin Tarantino’s movies. His icily unforgettable performance as the psychopathically unhinged Mr. Blonde in Reservoir Dogs is one of the cinema’s greatest villain roles. Whether brandishing g razor blade or a grin, Madsen personified the type of antihero who affected not only movies but anime and video game characters for decades to come.

7. Malcolm-Jamal Warner – A Sitcom Son Who Grew Up With Us

At 54, Malcolm-Jamal Warner died of drowning while on holiday in Costa Rica. As Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show, he was one of the most identifiable faces on television during the 1980s. Warner went on to have a serious career in dramas such as The Resident, demonstrating range and commitment to real roles. To millions of up-and-coming actors, he was evidence that child stars might mature into serious, respected actors.

6. Loretta Swit – The Heart of MASH

Loretta Swit, best known as Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan, passed away at 87. She was a 10-time Emmy nominee and won twice, a mainstay of MASH, in both its pilot and record-breaking finale. Her combination of gruffness and vulnerability defined one of TV’s finest ensemble shows and helped inspire generations of actors and writers.

5. Val Kilmer – The Chameleon Actor

Val Kilmer, deceased at 65, was a leading man who could slide into nearly any part. Whether he was stealing scenes playing Doc Holliday in Tombstone, swaggering as Jim Morrison in The Doors, or flying as Iceman in Top Gun, Kilmer electrified every performance. His career demonstrated how intensity and versatility could define even the most unexpected roles.

4. Sly Stone – Funk’s Fearless Innovator

Sly Stone, 82, transformed music with Sly and the Family Stone. Combining funk, rock, soul, and psychedelia, he produced a sound that continues to ring out today. His courageous imagination didn’t only remake what music sounded like—it remade what it could be. His impact is profound in pop, movie soundtracks, and even game beats today.

3. Brian Wilson – The Genius of Harmony

Brian Wilson, the creative genius behind The Beach Boys, also passed away at 82. Through Pet Sounds and hits like Good Vibrations, Wilson demonstrated that pop music could be rich, layered, and emotionally profound. His melodies outlined summers for generations, and his production innovations continue to reverberate in recording studios worldwide.

2. Hulk Hogan – Wrestling’s Global Superstar

Hulk Hogan, who died at 71, was more than a wrestler—he was a cultural phenomenon. With his red-and-yellow personas, catchphrases, and later heel turn into “Hollywood” Hogan, he brought wrestling into the mainstream like few believed possible. His character influenced how performers—both in and out of the ring—grasped the concept of stardom.

1. Ozzy Osbourne – Heavy Metal’s Dark Godfather

Ozzy Osbourne, 76, is dead after his long battle against Parkinson’s disease. A frontman for Black Sabbath and later a solo legend, Ozzy defined rebellion and mayhem and laid out the template for heavy metal. From his distinctive vocals to his manic stage antics, Ozzy’s impact reached into fashion, movies, and game design. “Ozzy is foundational to everything that happened in rock after Sabbath,” as one music professor put it.

These ten names remind us that pop culture doesn’t merely entertain—it redefines the way we think, feel, and even dream of stories. Each of these individuals left a legacy that continues to ripple outward, whether it’s on screen, on air, in music, or in the realms of gaming and anime. Their exits may have been in 2025, but their impact is here to stay.

Obtaining limitless scrolling, changing genres, and looking up recommendations is quite a lot to handle. However, don’t be afraid, as I have already worked for you. I’ve gone through well-known shows, barely visible gems, and highly-rated series to present you with the best possible list: the top 10 Netflix shows to binge-watch today. If feeling sad, shocked, or just engrossed in the screen is your desire, these options will serve you well.

10. From Scratch

Need tissues at the ready? This sob-fest, adapted from Tembi Locke’s book, traces the love story of Amy, a painter, and Lino, a chef from Sicily, as they fall in love and are then tested by disaster. Zoe Saldaña drives with emotional authenticity and nuance in a tale that is as lovely as it is gut-wrenching.

9. Boy Swallows Universe

A gritty, heartfelt coming-of-age drama set against a hard-as-nails 1980s Brisbane backdrop. Teenager Eli Bell deals with a dysfunctional family life of drugs and crime—yet manages to cling to hope and empathy. It’s gritty, dark, and very touching.

8. Maid

Raw, intense, and raw, Maid traces the life of Alex as she runs away from an abusive relationship and cleans houses for a living to take care of her daughter. Margaret Qualley gives a stellar performance, and the emotional connection with her mother (played by Andie MacDowell) is truly unforgettable.

7. The Fall of the House of Usher

Mike Flanagan has a talent for blending gothic horror with dark drama in this Edgar Allan Poe-inspired show. Secrets and wealth of the Usher family disintegrate through strange accidents and manoeuvring. Gothic, savage, and darkly intriguing.

6. Bodies

Four periods, four detectives, one repeating dead body. This future-set time-travel mystery takes us from the 1800s to the future, intertwining crime, sci-fi, and supernatural turns. It’s smart, unforeseen, and the kind of programme that keeps you hooked.

5. Baby Reindeer

Stalking the grounds of Richard Gadd’s own experience, this disturbing drama tracks Donny Dunn, a stand-up comedian facing an unhinged stalker in Martha. It’s darkly comedic and uncomfortably raw. Prepare yourself—the suspense never relents.

4. Beef

A minor skirmish escalates into o full-blown fixation in this black comedy. Steven Yeun and Ali Wong engage in a battle that takes over their lives. Beef is tightly written, over-the-top dramatic, and strangely sympathetic—ideal for late-night binges.

3. The Queen’s Gambit

Chess has never been so chic—or charged. See Beth Harmon’s ascent from orphaned prodigy to global chess sensation, as she struggles with addiction and loss. Anya Taylor-Joy shines in this engrossing, intelligent, and immensely binge-worthy show.

2. Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End

This is not your average fantasy anime—it goes very deep into issues of time, loss, and the things that give our lives value. Having defeated the Demon King, mage Frieren has to deal with the slow passage of life and the friends she has outlived. Stunning visuals, lovely storytelling, and emotionally gripping throughout.

1. Adolescence

No finale can beat this one—Adolescence tracks 13-year-old Jamie, who has been accused of murder after a classmate is killed. But it’s not a whodunit—it’s a why. Every episode is shot in a single continuous take, giving it a gritty, immersive feel. Stephen Graham co-created and plays Jamie’s father. Not a comfortable watch—but one you won’t soon forget.

Being​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ famous can get you wherever you want, but some celebs choose paths that we never thought they would take—paths leading to writing, painting, or even some bizarre electronic worlds. Turning to creative detours can be, for stars, a way of showing that they are not only people of the red carpet or simply a means of releasing the pent-up energy. The result is great in some cases, it is delightfully quirky in some instances, and sometimes we are left wondering, Why? Let’s look at the 10 biggest celebrity side hustles, the ones with the craziest being ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌last.

10. Marlon Brando’s Pirate Adventure

You know him as Don Corleone, but Marlon Brando also co-authored a swashbuckling pirate novel. Fan-Tan, which appeared posthumously in 2005, began life as a movie concept in 1979. It tells the tale of a sea captain in 1920s Hong Kong who becomes drawn into a robbery. It’s odd, adventurous, and quintessentially Brando—evidence that even movie gods on occasion fancy themselves actors of high-seas melodrama.

9. Paris Hilton’s Candy-Colored NFTs

The queen of the color pink and early reality television didn’t rest on perfume lines or DJ booths. Paris Hilton has dived headlong into the realm of digital art, creating pastel-colored NFTs through an AI partnership. Consider candy-coated dreamscapes in blockchain form. Whether visionary or simply very pricey digital stickers to you, they are inescapably Paris.

8. Snooki’s Fictional Shore Stories

Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi didn’t just experience her Jersey Shore existence—she wrote it into fiction. Her first novel, A Shore Thing, tracks sisters clubbing in Seaside Heights, and the second, Gorilla Beach, adds Atlantic City and a Ponzi scheme. Snooki explained that she wanted to surprise everyone by writing a novel rather than a memoir.

7. Hunter Biden’s Expensive Abstract Paintings

Hunter Biden’s abstract art has been auctioned for hundreds of thousands of dollars, sparking debate about value, politics, and what makes art “serious.” His hazy, layered works have been compared to something you’d find at a luxury wellness retreat. Love them or loathe them, they’ve made him one of the most controversial celebrity artists of recent years.

6. Tom Hanks and His Typewriter Obsession

Tom Hanks is more than America’s dad—he’s also a typewriter-obsessed writer. He’s written short stories for Uncommon Type, each involving the machines he collects (he has more than 150). His latest book even gives readers a peek behind the curtain of a superhero film. It turns out the guy who brought us Woody has some stories of his own, too.

5. Adrien Brody’s Neon Pop Art

Adrien Brody, Oscar winner for The Pianist, now directs his dynamism into flashy, street art-inspired painting. His canvases blend spray paint, cardboard, and pop culture symbols, bearing phrases such as “Rise Above” and “BRODY.” Strident, wild, and hard to ignore—his painting is as over-the-top as his performances on film.

4. Lucy Liu’s Serious Art Career

While other stars experiment, Lucy Liu is highly regarded within the art community. Her medium is photography, installation, and abstract painting, and she’s been shown in prestigious galleries worldwide. Liu’s seriousness and dedication to her craft indicate that she’d still be working if she weren’t a celebrity.

3. Kendall & Kylie Jenner’s YA Sci-Fi

The Jenner sisters ventured briefly into dystopian fiction with their ghostwritten YA books Rebels: City of Indra and Time of the Twins. The novels chronicle super-siblings in a future universe, albeit the plots are… hazy, best. Nevertheless, the venture serves to affirm that in pop culture, no creative path is ever off-limits.

2. Ed Sheeran’s Paint-Splatter Sessions

Ed Sheeran doesn’t only compose earworms—he also splatters paint to song. He refers to them as “visual songs,” made while playing playlists in a London car park. He doesn’t sell them, other than for charity, and doesn’t try to pass them off as tortured brilliance. Just raw color, mayhem, and enjoyment—like his tunes, only on a canvas.

1. Carrie Fisher’s Sharp, Semi-Autobiographical Fiction

Carrie Fisher, always our Princess Leia, was also a witty, incisive author. Her 1987 novel Postcards from the Edge tracks an actress recovering from an overdose in rehab—loosely based on her own experience. Fisher herself said she employed humor as a means of survival from the most dire situations, and it shines through in her writing. Her fiction is sloppy, humorous, and brutally honest—just like she was.

What are all these side projects telling us? Perhaps that creativity does not end after winning an Oscar or reaching the top of the charts. Or perhaps, as Eleonora Sparaciari proposes, the actual mystery is not why celebrities do crazy art—but why we cheerfully shell out six figures for it. Either way, celebrity side projects confirm one thing: fame can come and go, but weird creativity never tires.

Let’s​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ face it — DC is undergoing a substantial change to its character. The new DC Universe, directed by James Gunn and Peter Safran, is throwing off all the old rules, and that means a new appearance for one of the most legendary characters: Wonder Woman. To put it simply, Gadot was flawless throughout her run as Wonder Woman, but since the franchise is going to be rebooted, it’s only fair that we get a new version of Diana ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌Prince.

So, who’s got the presence, power, and screen charisma to fill those iconic boots? Whether it’s up-and-coming stars or well-established pros, here are 10 actresses who could slay it as the new Wonder Woman.

10. Bruna Marquezine

Bruna Marquezine already tested the DC waters with Blue Beetle, and though the movie failed to set the box office ablaze, she shone in her role. She was even shortlisted for the role of Supergirl in The Flash, and that shows us that the studio believes there is something special about her. With effortless charm and intense on-screen presence, Marquezine might deliver a young but authoritative version of Wonder Woman—one that feels fresh without being removed from reality.

9. Katherine Waterston

Katherine Waterston has an intensity and depth that might give Wonder Woman some serious dramatic heft. Standing at 5’11”, she is physically imposing, like an Amazon, and her performance in Alien: Covenant and Fantastic Beasts demonstrates she can carry big-budget features. With emotional subtlety and quiet strength, Waterston might give us a Diana who is both powerful and deeply human.

8. Charlee Fraser

Charlee Fraser is not a household name yet, but her breakout role in Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga made it unmistakable—she’s one to watch. With a look inspired by a younger Gal Gadot and an act rich in grit and poise, Fraser could bring a smooth transition of the character. She’s that kind of up-and-comer who could play the role for years to come.

7. Emma Mackey

With starring roles in Sex Education, Barbie, and the new Chronicles of Narnia reboot, Emma Mackey is poised for stardom. She even auditioned for Lois Lane in Superman: Legacy, showing she’s already on DC’s radar. With dramatic looks and a strong presence, Mackey might bring a contemporary twist to Wonder Woman—one that walks the line between strength and vulnerability seamlessly.

6. Grace Caroline Currey

Grace Caroline Currey already has DC cred from her stint as Mary Bromfield in Shazam!. She’s performed both the civilian and superhero versions of her character with heart and conviction. If DC can recast within its universe (just ask Jason Momoa), Currey would be a good bet. She has warmth and grit that could shine in a starring role. 

5. Eiza González

Eiza González has long been fan-cast across nearly every superhero franchise—and for good reason. Her performances in action roles, from Baby Driver to Godzilla vs. Kong, prove she can lead a high-octane film. Add to that her screen presence and sharp charisma, and you’ve got someone who could bring both edge and elegance to Diana Prince.

4. Laura Harrier

Laura Harrier made her superhero debut in Spider-Man: Homecoming, but she’s only just getting started. At 5’9″, she carries herself with a dignified presence that would suit perfectly on Themyscira. Roles in BlackKkKlansman and Hollywood demonstrate that she’s got dramatic chops, and Wonder Woman might be the role that launches her to new heights.

3. Daisy Ridley

Daisy Ridley is accustomed to playing iconic characters, having portrayed Rey in the Star Wars sequel trilogy as Rey. She’s shown she can do big stunts, emotional journeys, and the pressure of the franchise variety. Although her Star Wars legacy could make her a risky choice, Ridley’s combination of power and empathy is exactly what Wonder Woman embodies.

2. May Calamawy

May Calamawy impressed strongly in Moon Knight as Layla El-Faouly, and she’s got everything to make a wonderful Wonder Woman. She speaks up for social justice causes, infusing real-world integrity into the character. If DC wants someone who shares Diana’s values both on- and off-screen, Calamawy is the natural choice.

1. Adria Arjona

Adria Arjona is the name that continues to be mentioned everywhere among fans—and it’s not hard to understand why. Having appeared in Andor, Hit Man, and Morbius, she’s displayed emotional range, charisma, and significant range. She’s also had working experience with James Gunn previously (The Belko Experiment), and her career thus far seems to have been leading up to a prominent superhero role. If DC needs someone prepared to lead a new era, Arjona could be the ideal candidate.

Whomever ends up holding the Lasso of Truth, one thing is certain: Wonder Woman’s legacy rests comfortably in capable hands. Whether that’s an old familiar or a fearless recruit, the next Diana Prince has some big boots to fill—and we can’t wait to see who takes them on.

Let’s​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ face it: if you ever watched a “high school” series and thought, “Wait, that guy can’t be 16 years old,” you are not just making things up. For a very long time, Hollywood has been guilty of casting adults as high school students—sometimes adults who could easily be mistaken for teachers or parents. At times it does, at times it is laughably unconvincing, and at other times it leaves real teens baffled as to whether they are supposed to resemble that grown-up. So, there is this countdown of the 10 most surprising, funny, and remember-when moments when adults pretended to be teenagers on the screen—and a little bit about why these weird casting decisions are more than just a funny behind-the-scenes ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌moment.

10. Jason Earles – Hannah Montana

When Hannah Montana premiered on Disney Channel, Jason Earles was almost 30 playing Jackson, Miley’s goofy older brother. He was able to maintain the teen facade for years with co-stars who were actual teens. Earles’ being over a decade older than his character baffled many young viewers—and also became one of the show’s inside jokes.

9. Bianca Lawson – Pretty Little Liars

Bianca Lawson has essentially made a career of playing teens well beyond her own teenage years. Now 31, she appeared in Pretty Little Liars as Maya St. Germain, but that was far from the first high school gig for her—she’s appeared as a teen in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Teen Wolf, and others. Lawson’s ageless looks have made her the de facto queen of playing teens across many different generations.

8. Stockard Channing – Grease

Okay, sure, Grease is a classic—but come on, the cast seemed more like they’d attend a PTA meeting rather than study hall. Stockard Channing was 33 when she portrayed Rizzo, the tough-as-nails leader of the Pink Ladies. She certainly seemed to have more “cool aunt” energy than “classmate,” but her acting was unforgettable and solidified her character as a timeless classic.

7. Alan Ruck – Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

Cameron Frye was slated to be a senior in high school. Alan Ruck? He was 29. Sure, his youthfulness allowed him to fit in then, but once you know, you can’t unknow—particularly when you know he was more on par with age-wise the actors who played the parents than he was with Matthew Broderick as Ferris.

6. Andrew Garfield – The Amazing Spider-Man

Peter Parker was scripted as an uncomfortable high school teenager, but when Andrew Garfield swung onto screen, he was already 27. His sincere performance rang true, but the age difference caught up to him, particularly in those “teen angst” scenes that seemed a tad too refined on the lips of someone close to 30.

5. Alexa Demie – Euphoria

Euphoria is renowned for depicting high school life with gritty intensity—but in real life, several of its stars are actually way beyond their high school years. Alexa Demie, who portrays Maddy Perez, was 29 when season one rolled around and is currently in her 30s, still acting like a teenager. No surprise the show’s high school corridors resemble more of a catwalk than a sophomore homeroom.

4. Darren Barnet – Never Have I Ever

Paxton Hall-Yoshida is Never Have I Ever’s teen heartthrob fantasy boy—but Darren Barnet was 30 when he played him. Though plenty of his castmates are older than their characters, too, Barnet’s adult features made the disparity particularly obvious. It was like watching someone’s grad-school crush stroll into algebra class when you saw him play 16.

3. Shirley Henderson – Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

Moaning Myrtle is a 14-year-old ghost who is cursed to haunt Hogwarts’ bathrooms eternally. Shirley Henderson was not actually 14, however—she was 37 when she acted the part. To her credit, her performance was so perfect that most audiences didn’t even notice the enormous age gap—until they checked on it later and were shocked.

2. Stacey Dash – Clueless

Dionne Davenport is high school cool incarnate in Clueless, but Stacey Dash was 28 when the film came out. A full ten years older than her character, Dash performed the role with humor and panache, but her casting demonstrates precisely how Hollywood’s conception of “teenager” tends to carry a driver’s license, a credit card, and a few years’ worth of life experience.

1. Barbra Streisand – Yentl

And the crown is awarded to Barbra Streisand. In Yentl, she played a 17-year-old pupil while being 41 in real life. It’s one of the widest age discrepancies ever in Hollywood casting. Streisand gave an incredible performance, but the fact of a 40-something-year-old playing a teenager is impossible not to double-take at.

Some of that has to do with logistics. Actual teenagers are more difficult to cast because of labor laws, school obligations, and levels of maturity, particularly for projects involving intense or adult themes. But there is a downside: casting adults as teens distorts the way real teenagers perceive themselves. When the “typical” teenager on television appears to have just walked out of a photo shoot—acne-free skin, chiseled jawlines, and the confidence of someone who has already made it through their twenties—it creates unrealistic expectations.

Clinical psychologist Dr. Barbara Greenberg explains that this can send negative messages: actual teenagers may feel they ought to appear older, be more grown-up, or measure up to an idealized form of adolescence. Include programs where “teens” are always at crazy parties or in complicated relationships, and actual teens feel left behind. The net result? A generation of children coerced into meeting the glossy, unreal Hollywood ideal of teen life. Perhaps the time has come for a twist of plot—where teenagers on screen are, finally, acted by teenagers themselves.