The Knockouts are often a mixed bag on The Voice, for while they give artists the opportunity to better express themselves through their unique song choices, they also give these contestants more chances to butcher great numbers. Sadly, several of this week's artists were way off the mark, choosing songs that either didn't appeal to viewers or were completely wrong for their voices.
The importance of song choice was particularly evident during Maya Smith's performance. A talented singer, Smith proved to be less adept at song selection. She chose Alicia Keys' "No One" because it is an "emotional song, yet fun at the same time." Unfortunately, "No One" is also an incredibly risky song, and only a select few can truly pull it off. Smith tried her best, but her performance ultimately fell short. Had she selected a song better suited to her voice (or had Christina Aguilera had the good sense to steer her in the right direction), she could have moved on to the next round of the competition. Instead, she was sent home far too early.
Smith's was just one of several ill-informed song choices to disappoint viewers this week. The chief issue viewers had with this week's songs was that they didn't appropriately showcase the artists' talent. A few critics also spoke ill of what they referred to as subpar lyrics.
Bad song choice
Bad song choice
Maya song choice
Maya song choice
The Voice Knockouts
The Voice Knockouts
It's great getting to see glimpses of each singer's personality show through as they choose their own songs, but the Knockouts might not be the most appropriate time for this. At this point in the competition, the chief factor determining whether a singer moves on should be vocal talent, which can only be on full display if the right song is chosen.
Yes, song choice is also a factor during the blind auditions, but once the artists start working with coaches, they need better direction as to the types of songs that are most likely to complement their unique voices. The coaches offer great criticism regarding vocal technique; now they need to do the same for song choice. The apparent lack of guidance in this area could very well result in a potential superstar being sent home sooner than deserved.
What do you think of The Voice's format for the Knockouts? Should song choice be as much of a factor as it is currently? Or should the coaches provide a little more guidance to ensure that the right singers move on in the competition? Comment and share your opinion below.
The ladies of Dance Moms have always been prone to petty drama, but their behavior just gets worse as the show continues. Once off-limits, the dancers are now subject to heavy criticism, and not just about being Abby Lee Miller's favorite. The moms are outright trashing the girls these days, something Christi Lukasiak and Kelly Hyland would never have dreamed of doing.
Lukasiak and Hyland may no longer be on the show, but at least one of the original mothers is still around to enforce the early unwritten code of conduct. After Brynn Rumfallo's mom Ashlee Allen badmouthed Kendall Vertes (and after Vertes talked back to her), fan favorite Holly Frazier got the moms together to talk through the situation. She voiced her concerns regarding the malicious turn the show has taken and how she's worried that the moms' petty behavior is negatively impacting their kids.
As always, Dr. Holly was right. Teens and preteens have to deal with plenty of drama — the last thing they need is to face constant criticism from both their teacher and their friends' mothers. Ashlee Allen is by no means the only offender — pretty much everybody except original moms Melissa Gisoni and Holly Frazier has made a habit of criticizing the show's dancers, either behind their backs or directly to their faces. This is simply not OK.
At one time, viewers could always take solace in knowing that, no matter how crazy their moms were, the dancers could be counted on to behave in a civilized manner. That appears to be changing. Fortunately, there is still one good role model, and she received a lot of praise on Twitter tonight.
Holly behavior
Holly behavior
Holly role model
Holly role model
Nia becoming Holly
Nia becoming Holly
Holly Frazier is a very refreshing presence on Dance Moms. She and her daughter may not receive the appreciation they deserve at the ALDC, but viewers have definitely noticed their level-headed behavior and sense of compassion. Sadly, the other moms aren't willing to follow Frazier's example and ease up on the girls, so it's not likely that her wise words are going to have a lasting impact.
What did you think of Holly Frazier's response to tonight's Dance Moms drama? Is she a good role model for her daughter and the other ALDC girls? Comment and share your opinion below.
Melissa McCarthy does not have time for the fashion industry’s “normal” sizes. Actually, to be more accurate, she thinks they’re all BS. In a recent interview with Refinery29, the actress said, "I know I am not the 'norm…' I don't know any perfect women. What people pass off as 'normal,' I just have to keep in my head that it's bullshit. It’s all fictitious, made-up stuff.”
McCarthy has always been an advocate for self-love and accepting her body for the way it is. She goes beyond simply talking about it, though. She created Melissa McCarthy Seven7 to cater to women just like her, who don’t fit into the “normal” sizes. But what she doesn’t often do is call out other celebrities for the way they’re portrayed on magazine covers. She’s changing that now.
“I know some of those women in those magazines who get called perfect or whose butt is supposedly better, and often they don’t even look like that in person,” she said.
She didn’t call anyone out specifically, but it could be read as a subtle plea to other women to stop pretending they look exactly like their magazine covers in real life.
It’s an interesting point because we don’t ever hear these perfect celebrities talk honestly about how photoshopped they are or how different they look in person. Honestly, this is a message we might need even more. It’s one thing for the woman who isn’t perfect to say she’s fine with it. But it’s an entirely different, and maybe more powerful, message if the perfect woman denies that she looks perfect every day or that she has no imperfections.
Don’t get me wrong, McCarthy’s message is important and she should continue to mention it any time she can. But if other celebrities felt inspired to fight against the norms in the fashion industry, it would make an even greater impact. Every body type would be encouraged to accept the way they look. And everyone would understand that their body might not be normal, but it’s perfect. And maybe then sizes and standards would actually become BS and fictitious.
After the Mark Fuhrman tape was revealed on tonight's episode of The People v. O.J. Simpson, I probably would have given Simpson a "not guilty" vote, too.
Don't get me wrong, I still believe that Simpson is, in fact, guilty.
But what the show proved tonight is that the case was bogged down by so many race issues that got so muddled between the defense and prosecution that they really should have called for a mistrial. But because none of that happened and the prosecution failed to prove Simpson killed Nicole Simpson with enough solid evidence, the jury had no choice but to put in a "not-guilty" verdict.
It's important to note, I was only about 7 years old when the actual Simpson trial was going on some 20 years ago. I have vague memories of the case that plagued the country. Even in my child brain, I thought Simpson was guilty. But watching American Crime Story has opened the case up and given it an entirely new light (much in the same way shows like Making a Murderer and Serial have done for their respective cases).
The big takeaway for me thus far has been that it's easy to point fingers at Simpson and wonder how a jury could ever exonerate him. The greater challenge — which the show has conquered so well — is showing the bigger picture of the trial that is so much more poignant than simple guilt or innocence. It was about race issues. It was about the flaws in our justice system. It was about the media frenzy. And it was about ignorance.
And that ignorance from people directly involved in the case, especially, and maybe most important, Fuhrman as we saw tonight, meant justice in this case was about more than a man's guilt or innocence. Justice happened when the country woke up and paid attention.
Unfortunately, I can't say justice was served. Because while the nation watched, the case didn't affect the change it could and should have. Trial, lawmaker and police corruption is still rampant. Simpson walked. And the Simpson trial gave way to the evolution of Twitter, where there is a 140-character scandal every other day.
The upside to this is the education the show provides. Yes, I know not everything in the series is 100 percent factual. But mostly, the series does a spot-on job. Enough so that I feel confident saying people should take note to ensure that a trial like this never happens again.
How would you have voted as a juror in the O.J. Simpson trial after watching American Crime Story Season 1?
Cookie, portrayed brilliantly by Taraji P. Henson, is the kind of matriarch you can't ignore: independent, feisty, loyal to a fault and fierce with a capital F-I-E-R-C-E.
The Lyon family's main lady is also quite famous for her colorful vocabulary and unique ability to turn a phrase. After all, we have her to thank for introducing the slang nickname "Boo Boo Kitty" into the vernacular. Which begs the question: What was our life even like before Cookie Lyon?
And so, in celebration of the queen herself (and Empire's return to primetime, of course), here are 18 of Cookie's best moments... so far.
After spending nearly two decades in prison for a trumped-up drug dealing charge against her then husband, Lucious — only to see him become one of the richest music moguls in the country and never pay her a visit in prison? Girl, you'd better believe she walked into that board room with intention.
2. Every.single.time she loved Jamal unconditionally
While Lucious has always struggled with the sexuality of their son, Jamal, Cookie never left his corner. She's the person who cheers him on, props him up and keeps him grounded. When he came out publicly during a performance of one of Lucious' old hits, Cookie couldn't have been prouder.
3. When she showed up to dinner wearing naughty lingerie and did this...
Showing up to what she thought was going to be a special evening with Lucious only to discover it's an impromptu engagement dinner for Lucious and Anika, Cookie was predictably not enthused. Particularly considering she was not dressed for a "friendly get-together," a point she drove home by revealing the lingerie beneath her coat and showing Anika what a "real ass" looks like.
After Jamal leaves Empire because of the ongoing drama with his dad, Cookie steps in and maneuvers some serious recording time for her son at the rough-around-the-edges studio he's chosen (read: that he can afford after having been cut off by Lucious).
Word to the wise: Don't piss off Cookie Lyon and then walk away, lest you wind up getting a Louboutin pump lobbed at the back of your head with alarming precision.
7. When she refused to let Camilla sink her claws into Hakeem again
Suffice it to say it was a huge shocker when Camilla resurfaced at the end of last season and staged a huge coup against Lucious by manipulating Hakeem into turning against his family. Cookie wasn't havin' it, though — and she made that about as clear as one can.
8. When she took it there with Adam Rodriguez's sexy character
OK, sure, Adam Rodriguez's character ended up being a borderline bad-guy-slash-spy, but he sure was hot. Can you blame us for living vicariously through Cookie's hot and heavy fling with Laz Delgado?
9. When she still had empathy for Lucious after everything
Despite everything Lucious has put her through over the years, Cookie will always put the past behind her if it means being there for her family. And whether she likes to admit it all the time or not, Lucious is her family. So it was a tribute to her true loyalty that she brought comfort to him after the company was stripped away.
When Delgado got physical with Hakeem, Cookie gave Delgado tit for tat. Don't go messing with a mama bear, y'all — you'll wake up the sleeping beast within.
11. When she took charge of Hakeem's kidnapping situation like a boss
When Hakeem is kidnapped, Cookie isn't about to just quietly slide over a briefcase full of cash in exchange for her kid. She took it a step (or 12) further by making the point that she isn't afraid of anyone or anything. These are her streets.
12. When she made a stirring statement about the incarceration of black men
At a Free Lucious rally, Cookie descended in a cage dressed as a gorilla to drive home a point about the overzealous and often unfair incarceration of black men and their subsequent dehumanization at the hands of police. It was one of the series' most powerful moments to date.
13. When she held a proverbial mirror up to Lucious' face
Shortly after getting out of jail, Cookie reminds Lucious of his humble beginnings — and the man he apparently sold out for some fancy suits and big, shiny things — by saying, "I liked you better when you was a thug."
14. When she made the most passive-aggressive prayer of all time
Leave it to Cookie Lyon to somehow incorporate the word "hoes" into a prayer and totally pull it off. To be clear, Boo Boo Kitty definitely got the message regardless of the many layers of passive-aggression it was cloaked in.
15. When she pulled a one-two punch that nearly knocked Boo Boo Kitty out cold
Daaaaaaaamn, Cookie! When Cookie and Boo Boo Kitty's feud came to a head, Cookie didn't waste a lot of extraneous time getting to the point. She let her one-two combo do all of the talking.
16. When she said goodbye to her boys before her prison stint
Ugh, this scene will break your heart and then pick it back up, glue together the scraps and break it again. Via flashback, we see the gut-wrenching moment Cookie had to say goodbye to her kids before going to prison for their father. Talk about sacrifice!
17. When she made "buster" sound like a four-letter word
It's hard not to love every insult Cookie hurls because they're all so perfectly in their simplicity. Any woman who can make "buster" sound like an obscenity is a winner in my book.
18. When she made it crystal clear who's really the boss
Lucious may sit at the head of the table, but Cookie quickly reminded him upon her return that she's the one who is actually steering this metaphorical ship.
College is basically a given for kids these days. You graduate from high school, and you go to college, whether or not you know what you want to do. But for Chase Chrisley, that plan isn't quite working out.
In the newest episode of Chrisley Knows Best, he complains that his current general education classes aren't helpful and decides to branch out to gain useful experience at an internship.
As per usual, the hilarious hijinks ensue. First, his dad, Todd Chrisley, barges into his interview to talk to Chase's potential employer. Then once he gets the job, he's got to be an animal babysitter. And not just regular animals. I'm talking kangaroos and llamas. Ultimately, Chase decides animal wrangling isn't for him either and starts his own show on the Atlanta public broadcasting channel.
It's all a very silly take on a very serious underlying issue: Should college be a given?
Most of the time, we assume general education classes are a way to explore different subjects until the student lands on a major they're passionate about, but when you stop to think about that, it sounds a little ridiculous. We're all basically encouraging kids to waste two years of their life, jumping from subject to subject, never actually working toward anything.
Chase could be onto something more meaningful. Instead of generalized classes, students could spend those two years working as apprentices. Sure, there may not be any value in cleaning up after a kangaroo, but there is value in jumping into the work environment you're interested in and deciding whether or not it's for you. Then you don't end up being a college graduate with a degree you'll never use and no experience to get hired somewhere you'll actually enjoy.
In this particular episode, Chase was mostly interested in the quickest way he could start earning money, and college classes weren't that. But it did offer an interesting observation on G.E. classes and how they help or hinder the growth of students.
Fans of the Kardashian family would love to see Kourtney Kardashian and her baby daddy Scott Disick rekindle their romance, and there have been multiple rumors about whether or not that will happen. But now, Disick is opening up about what's really happening behind the scenes.
During an interview with Australian radio show Kyle & Jackie O on Tuesday, Disick made a surprising confession about his post-split life, and how content he is with it.
"I don't think anything is ever simple. I'm not the first person in the world to get separated from their significant other," Disick told the hosts, Us Weekly reports. "There are things we both have to work on. … We're at a good place, [but] I don't think either of us wants any more than where we're at."
His comments may surprise many as rumors have previously suggested that Disick was doing everything he could to get Kardashian back. But, he doesn't rule anything out — which is not that surprising as the former couple has nine years of history and three children together.
He continued, "I don't really rule anything out. If things are meant to be, maybe they will be."
But is Disick happy on his own?
"On the happiness scale, I'm in the 5, 6, 7 range," he confessed. And despite reports suggesting otherwise, Disick does not have a girlfriend.
"I'm not really thinking about dating at this point in my life," he said.
Let's hope Disick can up that happiness scale in the near future and continue to live a happier, healthier life.
Are you surprised that Scott Disick and Kourtney Kardashian are content as they are? Were you hoping for a reconciliation? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
Earlier this year, when The Path showrunner Jessica Goldberg spoke at the Television Critics Association's winter press tour, she promised that her new Hulu series was definitely not at all about Scientology.
Having now watched several episodes of The Path, I can promise you — it is definitely about Scientology.
It's also not about Scientology, to be fair: it's about Meyerism, a fictitious cult — err, movement — with compounds and centers in places like upstate New York and Peru. And Goldberg is wise to verbally distance herself from Scientology, perhaps the most litigious faith group in the world.
But if you've read up on the group, you might recognize some eerie similarities while watching The Path.
Ex-Scientologists often speak candidly about the pushback they would receive if they questioned the teachings of L. Ron Hubbard or the inner workings of the Church. Likewise, the first episode of The Path demonstrates how strongly this issue manifests in Meyerism as well. The show centers on Eddie (Aaron Paul), a husband and father who begins to question his faith after he experiences a disturbing vision. He keeps his questions a secret from his family and other Meyerists, however — what would they do to him if they knew he had doubt?
2. Spiritual development involves a climb
In Scientology, followers strive to cross the Bridge to Total Freedom, the process that separates them from enlightenment. A near-identical process exists in Meyerism — but instead, it's called the Ladder.
3. The stages of the climb
Members of Scientology and Meyerism label themselves based on what level they have achieved in their process to enlightenment. In Scientology, these are Operating Thetan levels, OT I through OT VIII, with as-yet unreleased levels allegedly to follow. In Meyerism, they're called Rungs — 1R through 10R are complete, and founder Stephen Meyer (Keir Dullea) is hard at work on transcribing the new rungs. (Or is he?)
4. Don't trust the charismatic second-in-command
After Scientologist founder L. Ron Hubbard died, his second-in-command, David Miscavige, took charge and led the Church into a more dangerous direction than ever before. Cal Roberts (Hugh Dancy), the man behind the Meyerist founder, seems poised to do the same as soon as he can.
"Everyone has pain, Mary," Eddie's wife Sarah (Michelle Monaghan) tells new recruit Mary (Emma Greenwell) early in the series. "We just try not to carry it with us." The idea of distancing oneself from one's history and trauma isn't unique to Meyerism — it's the reality of Scientology as well.
6. Job creation keeps people involved
Scientologists can be easy to spot, because they're often out and about, proselytizing to the uninitiated about the cause. This is because many Scientologists actually work for the Church. Similarly, throughout the first episodes of The Path, we see that many residents of the Meyerist compound work there in addition to living there. Could this be a tactic to prevent defection?
7. Movement is small but worldwide
A 2008 survey estimated that about 25,000 people in the United States identify as Scientologists, though the number of members is greater when populations in other countries are taken into account. We never find out how many members of Meyerism are out in the world, but we know that, like Scientology, they are small — and quickly growing.
8. Giving back to the world
So as not to sound entirely negative, let's remember that even the most fringe religious groups have contributed good to the world: Both Scientology and Meyerism place an emphasis on international humanitarian relief. Scientologists advertise their volunteer missions while The Path opens with Meyerist volunteers saving innocent people from tornado wreckage. Then again, doing good doesn't necessarily mean that Scientologists and Meyerists look kindly on those outside of their movements...
... because both groups also have names for the uninitiated and the threats they pose. In Scientology, there's a great deal of talk about Supressive Persons, or SPs. In The Path, Meyerists fear Ignorant Systemites, or ISs.
10. Leaving is harder than you think
Many ex-Scientologists report being harassed, followed and threatened after their departures. We see this play out among the Meyerists as well: Alison (Sarah Jones) is a former member who left after her husband died mysteriously, and she lives in hiding knowing that the Meyerists are watching her closely.
The first two episodes of The Path are now on Hulu! New episodes will premiere on Hulu each Wednesday.
Ever discover a television show you like only to find out it was cancelled or not renewed for another season? I go through this all of the time. What's worse is that some of these shows were cut off right at the point where there was so much more left to explore. These are 11 shows that though I feel ended way too soon, they now live on at a streaming TV service near you.
The setting of Firefly is in outer space with different planets that sort of operate via the rules of the old wild west. The story follows the adventures of a nine-person crew of a space ship called Serenity lead by Captain Malcolm (Mal) Reynolds played by Castle’s Nathan Fillion. Firefly has a mix of action and comedic elements with characters that engage you.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime, Hulu, Netflix
2. Freaks and Geeks
This was a teen dramedy set in the 1980s that centered on the two fringe groups (The Freaks and The Geeks) at William McKinley High. Even though Freaks and Geeks is set in the '80s, the dilemmas these teens deal with are ageless. Therefore, your teen self can probably relate.
Where to watch: Netflix
3. The Gates
The Gates aired on ABC during the summer of 2010. It was a modern, supernatural-themed show with vampires, witches and werewolves that had more of a mature vibe. If you are a fan of Supernatural or The Originals this show will appeal to you.
Where to watch: Netflix
4. Kidnapped
NBC's Kidnapped was crime drama that focuses on the kidnapping of Leopold (Leo) Cain, the son of wealthy businessman Conrad Cain. Along the way to recovering Leo, secrets involving some of the major players are revealed. It is a taut drama with a strong cast that engages you from episode one.
Where to watch: Crackle, Netflix
5. My So-Called Life
This show was one of my all-time favorite series as a teen. It spoke to the many themes of what being a teenager in the mid-1990s was about with all of its angst. My So-Called Life realistically portrayed teen life and did not treat real-life problems like an after school special.
Resurrection is about a small town whose citizens who have died at different points in time come back. There is speculation about whether or not these people were actually resurrected or something else. More than anything, the resurrected of the town are bringing back secrets with them that are unnerving to the townsfolk as they can shatter the glass houses built.
Where to watch: Hulu
7. The Riches
This dramedy starring Eddie Izzard and Minnie Driver is about a family of Irish travelers who get by conning people. After the matriarch is released from prison, they assume the identity of a wealthy couple whom they unintentionally kill in a tragic car accident. As this is primarily a comedy with drama thrown in, there are humorous exploits that occur as the family tries to keep up the lie and struggle with their true lives.
Where to watch: Netflix
8. Smash
Smash was Glee for adults. Season one centered on trying to get the play "Bombshell" off the ground with pitting the play against a new rival play called “Hit List.” I highly recommend watching this series if for no other reason than hearing the phenomenal Megan Hilty belt out some truly powerful numbers.
Where to watch: Amazon Video
9. Twin Peaks
Twin Peaks was the supernatural show that centered around the mysterious death of Laura Palmer. Laura’s death was sort of a Pandora's Box revealing deep-seeded secrets of the town's folk. There is hope for this series because Showtime picked up the show again for a limited release to run in 2017.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime, Hulu, Netflix
10. Wicked City
Wicked City is a true crime drama that almost seems like it was to be ABC's crime anthology version of HBO's True Detective. Season one was based on the real life Sunset Strip killers. Honestly the unfolding of the story is engaging, so look past the style and its reimaged early '80s production and focus on the plot and how things unfold.
Where to watch: Hulu
11. The Witches of East End
The Witches of East End is about a family of witches and other supernatural beings who come from a dimension where magic reigns. It also features a tortured love story, along with murder and suspense thrown into the mix. This show has all of the makings of a guilty pleasure.
When the initial previews for Season 6 of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills were released, I noticed a familiar theme: people accusing an allegedly ill cast member of faking a disease. This time, instead of Brooks Ayers, the culprit was Yolanda Foster, who, admittedly, is a lot more likable than her RHOC counterpart. Nevertheless, the fake illness thing quickly became just as annoying on RHOBH as it had been on RHOC.
This time, instead of Meghan Edmonds, Lisa Rinna is the one firing the accusations. But she's not quite as forthright in her condemning of Yolanda Foster, and she's just as eager to accuse everybody else of foul play. Thus, RHOBH is all of the accusations with none of the research — and Edmonds' sleuthing was the one thing that made RHOC's fake illness storyline interesting.
Unfortunately, even when Foster is out of the picture, the bickering continues. During last night's episode, the talk was not so much about whether or not Foster has Lyme disease, but rather, who implied that she might have faked it. This is also a familiar theme, unfortunately, as several episodes have revolved around whether certain cast members have supported Foster's journey.
If there's one difference between RHOBH and RHOC, it's that Foster still has supporters, while Ayers really only ever had Vicki Gunvalson on his side. And even she turned on him by the time the reunion had arrived. Yes, there was some initial resistance to Edmonds' prying, but the other ladies eventually gave in. RHOBH, on the other hand, has a lot of bickering over who said what — and it's all very confusing. At least RHOC was reasonably easy to follow.
Image: Bravo
Bravo has gone way too far with the whole fake illness thing. At this point, most of us really don't care if Ayers has cancer or Foster has Lyme disease. We just want our favorite Real Housewives shows to move on and develop a few new plotlines. Is that too much to ask? Twitter users certainly don't think so. Many voiced their disgust during last night's episode:
RHOBH fake illness
RHOBH fake illness
Yolanda and Brooks
Yolanda and Brooks
RHOBH crossover
RHOBH crossover
Are you sick of the Lyme disease and Munchausen syndrome conflict on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills? Comment and share your opinion below.
Kourtney Kardashian has been cleaning out her closet (at least it looks that way), and what better way to celebrate her spring cleaning than with an underwear picture?
Taking to Instagram on Tuesday, Kardashian posted a photo of herself sporting a black bra and panties as she sits on a chair surrounded by clothing. She chose not to caption the image, but the image itself has the words, "The grand finale," emblazoned across it.
Kourtney Kardashian Instagram
Kourtney Kardashian Instagram
There's no denying that Kardashian looks amazing. Her body is incredible, and her workouts and clean living have clearly paid off, but the reaction to her image has been very mixed. While some think she looks great, others think the photo is a tad desperate.
Comments on the post include one from crossgurl7376, who wrote, "This photo just scream desperate." And scarlett6640 was equally unimpressed, writing, "WTF Y DID U DO THAT."
However, there are plenty of people who think the picture is great.
"You're looking very beautiful," qbarnard89 shared.
"She's had 3 kids and looks like this, i have no excuse," rushini wrote. And ky00000 was also inspired by Kardashian's body. She wrote, "Kourt... U look so Good. U INSPIRED MY 6 PACK abs."
It's Kourtney Kardashian's choice what she wants to do with her body, and if she wants to share underwear shots, she should be able to do so without judgment. Do you agree? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar's religious beliefs may be controversial, but their love has withstood the test of time. And after 32 years together, the pair are offering their followers marriage advice.
The couple took to their official Facebook page to pen their thoughts on "pursuing a dynamic marriage," revealing their secret to marital bliss.
"We are more in love today than when we married almost 32 years ago!" they wrote, adding, "By God's grace, our marriage is the strongest and sweetest it has ever been!"
The Duggars Facebook
The Duggars Facebook
The pair then listed five tips they claim have made their relationship stronger. These include: individually pursuing a relationship with Jesus, to not stay mad at each other and "make things right quickly," to enjoying regular dates and each other's company, and to, "Never say put downs or negative name calling, but instead, praise each other with a grateful spirit."
Michelle and Jim Bob also recommend a book they feel husbands and wives should read together: "His Needs, Her Needs by Willard F. Harley."
There have been rumors surrounding Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar's marriage of late with claims that they are going through a rough patch following Josh Duggar's rehab and various scandals — so their message comes at a good time, and fans have reacted to the post with great excitement.
"Glad to see that what the gossip magazines say is not true.. Happy You both [sic] and the family are doing great. Miss your show," Dawn Mays wrote.
"Great way to diffuse the rumors," Juanita Poetker Unrau shared. "Any marriage having gone through what you have can be tough, but thanks for showing how you work on it. Praying for you often."
Lorraine Perez was equally pleased to find out that the rumors were false. She wrote, "I ignore the tabloids and don't support them. You two are a great example. People judge because there has [sic] been problems in the family that you're fake. Not true. All families have tests and trials. I consider you all part of my extended family. With God as our Father, we are family."
Do you think the tips that Michelle and Jim Bob offer about their marriage are helpful? Or do you disagree? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
Kaley Cuoco has a very impressive résumé. In her teens, she starred in 8 Simple Rules with John Ritter, and she's currently co-starring in mega-hit The Big Bang Theory, but her most impressive skill is her ability to bounce back from heartbreak almost effortlessly.
Kaley Cuoco new boyfriend
Kaley Cuoco new boyfriend
The actress was spotted with new rumored boyfriend, Karl Cook, at a tennis tournament in California earlier this week. She also posted a playful photo of the two cozied up at a gun range a few days ago with a simple heart emoji as the caption. All signs point to her being finished recovering from her divorce and ready to jump into a new romance!
Back in September, Cuoco announced that she was getting a divorce from Ryan Sweeting, who she was married to for about a year and a half. She also was engaged once before that. Her dating history is full of whirlwind romances, fast breakups and even faster rebounds. She's either the most hopeful person or she just doesn't ever feel heartbreak.
In interviews and other appearances, Cuoco is always bubbly and bright. She never appears to be in a bad mood or particularly sad about anything, even after the news of her divorce broke, which leads me to believe she doesn't feel anything negative. Ever.
It's not that her relationships aren't significant to her. There's no doubt she cares for all her boyfriends — she talked endlessly about how wonderful Sweeting was while the two were together. I think she really just has the whole getting-over-someone thing down to a science. And if that's the case, she needs to write a book ASAP.
Although she hasn't confirmed a relationship with Cook, the two seem to have all the makings of a great relationship. Both are adorable and accomplished equestrians, and they enjoy tennis. If Cook shows interest in dog adoption and protection, he's basically Cuoco's dream man!
Whether or not this relationship works out, it's great to see someone who doesn't let failed relationships stop them from trying again. Cuoco can give us all a little motivation to be more optimistic and resilient when it comes to life's heartbreaks.
If you were hoping for a Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez reunion (and there have been recent rumors suggesting this may actually happen, thanks to Bieber's throwback pictures), then you'll be heartbroken to learn that she is reportedly hooking up with another young musician.
Puth previously told Us Weekly that he enjoys hanging out with Gomez because she "gets him," and now a source has told the publication that the pair has been "hooking up."
"It's not serious, but she's super into him," the source told the magazine. And a friend of Gomez echoed these sentiments, insisting that it's just a "flirty friendship."
It will be good news for the pair if they are into each other because they will be spending a lot more time together in the future and will reportedly be touring together in May. Puth will appear on Gomez's Revival tour — they have recorded the duet "We Don't Talk Anymore" together.
It's no secret that Puth and Gomez get on well, and he previously told Us Weekly that he was "happy that we're friends," and gushed about how mature she was, and how well she handled herself when they met at MTV Video Music Awards party last August.
But whether this friendship and casual hooking up will develop into something more remains to be seen. Do you think Selena Gomez and Charlie Puth would make a good couple? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
Chris Brown, the human equivalent of the smell inside a basement weight room, has somehow sunk even lower. Brown has blown up Twitter with an attack on R&B singer Kehlani, who posted a now-deleted Instagram photo alluding to a suicide attempt.
Kehlani has been the subject of cheating rumors between her most recent boyfriend, Cleveland Cavaliers player Kyrie Irving, and musical artist PartyNextDoor.
In a series of tweets, Brown accuses Kehlani of "flexing for the gram," a phrase we normally use when someone, say, posts an especially gorgeous vacation photo or shows off about how cute their outfit is that day. Accusing Kehlani of having lots of DMs [direct messages] is also ridiculous — as Brown should well know, anyone can send a DM.
Everyone, from fans to celebrities, is raging at Brown for these insensitive remarks.
john januzzi
john januzzi
perez hilton
perez hilton
Thankfully, Kehlani has also gotten support from the community. Rapper Nick Cannon shared a smiling photo of himself hugging Kehlani in what appears to be a hospital room.
nick cannon insta
nick cannon insta
If you or someone you know is having a tough time, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
Every week, a different female celebrity exclusively tells us her biggest girl crushes for #WomanCrushWednesday. This week, Katherine McNamara is sharing her list — and she's got a ton of big Hollywood names on it.
1. My mother, Ursula
My wonderful, beautiful, strong, caring mother. She has been my rock my entire life. We have been through hell and back together and she has stood by me and my dreams through it all. She is a scientist by training and has fought her way through a field dominated by men, which has been a huge inspiration to me in pursuing another career that requires perseverance. Her emphasis on intelligence and the value of education have been invaluable in showing me by example what it means to be a confident, strong, educated career woman.
My irreplaceable, courageous, kind, creative grandmother. My grandmother is the matriarch of my family. As a career, she ran emergency rooms of several very busy hospitals. I kid you not when I say this woman has seen it all. She is always able to find something to smile about in any situation and treats every person she meets with generosity and kindness. She has also inspired me to follow my creative passions, as in her retirement, she is a watercolor artist. Seeing how happy her work made her as I was growing up gave me the courage to pursue my own creative passion.
3. Elaine Stritch
Elaine Stritch was one of the most amazing women I have ever met and I believe I ever will meet. She taught me to never be afraid to truly be myself, and to speak my mind. Elaine was one of the most hardworking and talented individuals I have ever come across. She never let anyone tell her no, and she stood up for what she believed was right. She took me under her wing and taught me so much about life, the industry and how to be a woman. I will never forget the six months I spent sitting in her dressing room backstage at A Little Night Music.
4. Bernadette Peters
Another star of Broadway fame, Bernadette Peters played my mother for six months of the run of A Little Night Music. Her positivity and ability to giggle through any situation was — and still is — so inspirational to me. Despite her celebrity status, she was in the trenches with us throughout the run of the show and avidly participated in anything and everything she could. She is also somehow able to balance her career with her humanitarian efforts that have truly made a difference in the animal adoption communities. Having an awareness of how to use her voice for the greater good is something that has stuck with me to this day.
One day after I arrived in NYC from my hometown, I met the one and only Angela Lansbury. Subsequently, she played my grandmother for six months of the run of A Little Night Music. Most of my scenes were with her character and as such, I spent the majority of my free time during the show in her dressing room listening to her stories and gathering her advice. She is one of the kindest women I have ever met, but so very wise and intelligent, especially in matters concerning young career women in entertainment. She turned to me one day before we went onstage and told me to “play” in the scene — to not be afraid to try something new. I credit Angela with giving me the confidence to trust my instincts and stay true to myself.
6. Catherine Zeta-Jones
Catherine played my mother in A Little Night Music for six months of the run. She is one of the only women I have met who still possesses the glamorous nature of the classic old Hollywood movie star. Beyond that, Catherine is incredibly intelligent, generous and truly kind. By watching her, I learned it was possible to be a confident, sexy woman who was still respected by co-workers and peers, and not put into a feminine box. She is a force to be reckoned with — I hope to follow in her footsteps.
7. Malala Yousafzai
Malala’s story has been blasted on the news for years now. Her fight for women’s rights and education in the Middle East nearly cost her life. Despite the dangers, she has not stopped fighting for what she believes in, nor has it stopped her from getting an education herself. She has become a symbol for women’s rights, for hope and for strength across the globe. Her selflessness and giving her life to her work and to a cause that matters are qualities I truly look up to.
8. Audrey Hepburn
I saw My Fair Lady for the first time when I was about 6 years old. From that point on, I was a fan. I didn't know why at the time, but I was drawn to this woman who could make such a transformation from the flower girl to the glamorous socialite. As I learned more about her, Audrey Hepburn became the definition of class in my mind. From her work as an actress and her status as a fashion icon to her humanitarian efforts, she made every day of her life mean something. I can only hope to have a mere piece of the impact she had on the world.
9. Ellen DeGeneres
I have grown up watching Ellen. It was something I did every day with my mother and/or grandmother. Ellen has become a kind of role model to me. She is the consummate professional career woman. From her acting career and her success as a businesswoman and talk-show host to her compassion and care for those in need, she is someone I truly aspire to emulate.
Brie Larson is not only one of my favorite actresses, but one who I would like to follow in the footsteps of. She chooses interesting, challenging projects and fully commits to them. As a result, her work is brilliant, nuanced and respected. Aside from all that, it seems she has managed to stay true to herself and not get caught up in the glamor of Hollywood. I plan to do the same.
Don’t miss Katherine McNamara as Clary Fray on Shadowhunters every Tuesday at 9/8c on Freeform.
An undercover video taken of Nick Young bragging about cheating on fiancée Iggy Azalea that could potentially humiliate Young and ruin the couple's relationship leaked on the Internet this week, but Azalea's not sweating it. In fact, she took to Twitter on Tuesday to thank D'Angelo Russell — the director behind the clip and Young's Los Angeles Lakers teammate — for shooting the video.
iggy azalea tweet about d angelo russell
iggy azalea tweet about d angelo russell
Obviously, Azalea is probably less than stoked that the world knows that she was cheated on, but we're gonna interpret the tweet to mean she's just glad that Young will probably be tried and convicted in the court that is social media.
But while Azalea may be reveling in the fact that Young's alleged philandering ways were outed by his teammate, his teammates and sports fans don't necessarily share her point of view. Many are bashing Russell for divulging locker-room secrets — an ultimate sports no-no.
D'Angelo Russell tweet 1
D'Angelo Russell tweet 1
D'Angelo Russell tweet 2
D'Angelo Russell tweet 2
D'Angelo Russell tweet 3
D'Angelo Russell tweet 3
ESPN also reports that Russell's teammates are so upset with him that he's being isolated, and it's affecting the team's performance. However, it seems that those close to the controversy believe that Russell didn't directly leak the clip, and Lakers management will sit down with Young and Russell to sort things out as soon as possible, according to TMZ.
But is it Russell's fault that Young got caught bragging about his indiscretions? Literally, yes, but it sure seems like Young should be taking just as much heat for being a cheater as Russell is for being a snitch. While it is a little shady that Russell was recording Young without his knowledge, Young probably shouldn't have been boasting about stepping out on his bride-to-be in the first place
What do you think? Is Russell the shady one, or is it good the world now knows of Young's true character? Check out the footage and let us know in the comments.
Jodie Sweetin doesn't just have her eye on that Dancing with the Stars mirror ball — she is also hoping to nab husband No. 4.
Having just celebrated the fifth anniversary of her sobriety, Fuller House star Sweetin says she has learned from her mistakes and hopes to make a far better future for herself.
"We all have our demons," she told Us Weekly of her addiction to alcohol and drugs including, but not limited to, crystal meth. "When we finally learn to let them go, we get to live and be free."
If anything, she knows how lucky she is to have two healthy daughters and a new fiancé after three failed marriages.
"I've got everything I could want," she said. "I look back at things that have happened in the past, and I look at where I'm now, and it's crazy. If anything, my life is a lesson to never give up."
Sweetin met Justin Hodak through mutual friends in 2014, and he has a unique perspective on her past struggles, because he is an addict, too.
"He was 11 years sober in December," she explained. "We turn to each other for support. We both have our own lives and things we're excited about, but we combine that, where we have this great relationship."
So great, in fact, that the two are planning their wedding. Will the fourth time be the charm? He definitely asked the right way: he went to her daughters first.
"He's so different and, really importantly, I'm different," she said. "Every day we're choosing to be together, choosing to build a life together. I haven't always had the best luck in relationships, and I've learned a lot of lessons. I want to be married. I don't think there's anything wrong [with] admitting that it didn't work before and trying again."
Kocktails With Khloé always takes us to places we don't expect, but tonight's upcoming episode featuring Pauly Shore might just be the most shocking episode of Khloé Kardashian's talk show to date.
A new clip shows Kardashian talking about her sexual preferences, particularly how she prefers the company of black men.
"It’s all I know, though," Kardashian says after Shore brings up the topic. Snore, right? It's not like Kardashian hasn't been vocal about her dating history in the past. It's what comes next that is the shocker.
"I’ve never seen a white penis. So if you want to show me yours, I would like to see it. I’ve never seen one, though," Kardashian says to Shore, who responds with a grin about two miles wide.
In addition to Shore and Trey Songz, tonight's episode also features Kendra Wilkinson and Jillian Rose Reed. Kocktails With Khloé airs Wednesdays at 10/9c on FYI.
Teresa Giudice is on her own again as her husband Joe spent his first week in prison, and she is updating fans on how this new chapter of her life is unfolding so far.
In a video message to Bravo's blog The Daily Dish, Teresa revealed what Joe's first week in prison has been like, both for him and their family.
"I just want to say thank you so much to all my fans out there. All your love and support means the world to me and my family. It has been a difficult week for us, but we're making it through, thank god. Joe's doing as well as expected. Of course we spoke to him," Teresa said. "And I just want to say thank you again from the bottom of my heart for being there, and for all your beautiful tweets. Love, love, love you from my family to yours."
Joe reported for his 41-month sentence at FCI Fort Dix in New Jersey last week. When he is finished serving his time, he still faces possible deportation back to Italy despite living in the United States since he was just a year old, because he had no idea he was not a citizen.
"Joe could be deported," his attorney told Us Weekly last March. "I think it would be a tremendous injustice, given that he's been here since he was one year old. His parents and brothers have been naturalized, and Teresa and the children are citizens. Joe not getting U.S. citizenship just slipped through the cracks."
"He could have gotten it easily," says his lawyer. "He thought he was a citizen, as did everyone else. The fact that he wasn't, was brought up in the state case. He didn't know up until then."
Despite his nearly four-year sentence, Joe could be released as soon as 18 months from now if he takes part in sentence-reducing programs while behind bars.
