Empire Kosher Poultry is recalling nearly 11,000 pounds of chicken breasts this week, after they discovered that some of it might be filled with metal fragments.

Apparently, an employee noticed the metal on Nov. 2, and though they tried to prevent the product from reaching market, some of it had already been shipped out — 10,839 pounds, to be exact.

More: Recalled meat is being cooked and sold back to consumers

The products, which were shipped to stores nationwide and also sold online, bear the establishment number P-1015 and include:

• 4- to 5.25-pound tray packages containing chicken breasts labeled "Empire KOSHER NATURAL Chicken Breasts, Boneless & Skinless" with case code 46375 and sell-by date 11/14/17
• 1- to 1.25-pound tray packages containing chicken breasts labeled "Empire KOSHER NATURAL Chicken Breasts, Boneless & Skinless" with case code 7488 and sell-by date 11/16/17
• 2.5-pound tray packages containing chicken breasts labeled "Empire KOSHER NATURAL Chicken Breasts, Boneless & Skinless" with case code 7598 and sell-by date11/16/17
• 1- to 1.25-pound tray packages containing chicken breasts labeled "Empire KOSHER NATURAL Chicken Breasts, Boneless & Skinless" with case code 92615 and sell-by date 11/17/17
• 1- to 1.25-pound tray packages containing chicken breasts labeled "Empire KOSHER NATURAL Chicken Breasts, Boneless & Skinless" with case code 7888 and sell-by date 11/16/17

More: Foodborne illness: Everything you need to know about the most common types

So far, there have been no reports of any injury as a result of consuming the chicken. If you think you've purchased some of the recalled product, you should throw it away or return it to the place of purchase for a refund. You can also call Empire Kosher at 800-570-5718.

In the meantime, I can't be the only one who's thankful it's turkey season!

It's hard to believe it's been 20 years since the first book in J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series hit bookstores. All year, there have been celebrations of this global phenomenon's two-decade milestone, but it's not just the books celebrating a huge anniversary in 2017.

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets premiered on Nov. 15, 2002. The film is 15 years old! Where has the time gone? In the wake of our nostalgia, we did a little digging to find 15 fun facts about the making of the Harry Potter films that just might surprise you.

More: Incredible Harry Potter-Themed Wedding Is Pure Magic

1. One of Draco Malfoy's best lines wasn't in the script

In the Slytherin common room, when Harry-as-Goyle (Josh Herdman) says he wears glasses for reading, Draco (Tom Felton) sneers and says, "I didn't know you could read." Turns out the line was written at the last minute by director Chris Columbus.

2. An iconic exchange between Lucius Malfoy & Harry Potter was improvised

At the end of Chamber of Secrets, after Dumbledore explains everything that happened to Lucius Malfoy (Jason Isaacs), he says, "Let us hope Mr. Potter will always be around to save the day." Harry (Daniel Radcliffe) improvised back with, "Don't worry. I will be." Does every actor understand their character as perfectly as the Harry Potter cast?

3. Tom Felton used to sneak sweets in the pockets of his Hogwarts robes

When he was found out, the pockets were sewn shut. Felton talked about it at a 2014 fan convention: "The rumor was that they sewed them up after the third film because I was sneaking food and drink onto set. I want to clear this up because that is absolutely true."

4. Crabbe (Jamie Waylett) was cut from the Potter movies after an arrest for drug possession

Vincent Crabbe, despite being in all the books, wasn't in the final Harry Potter films. Actor Jamie Waylett was charged for possession of weed in 2009 and sentenced to community service. He was subsequently cut from the film franchise, leaving Crabbe out of an integral scene in the final Deathly Hallows. Later, he did some jail time for his part in the 2011 London riots.

More: Harry Potter Villain Arrested in Bomb Plot

5. Harry Potter and the Chamber of the Secrets is the longest movie in the series

Even though it's the second-shortest book (Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone is the shortest), Chamber of Secrets comes in at 174 minutes, making it just six minutes short of a full three hours. Wowza.

6. Chamber of Secrets started filming 3 days after Sorcerer's Stone finished

The first two movies are the only ones to actually be produced in the same year aside from Deathly Hallows Part 1 and Part 2, which were shot all at once.

7. Dobby was just a tennis ball

During filming, Daniel Radcliffe shot all of Harry's scenes with Dobby the house elf opposite a ball on a stick.

8. Several Ford Anglias were harmed in the making of Chamber of Secrets

Sixteen to be exact. The flying car Harry and Ron crash-landed in the Whomping Willow took quite a beating before it escaped into the Forbidden Forest, becoming a wild and sentient thing that later saved the boys from Aragog the spider's hungry, man-eating family. It took over a dozen duplicate models to complete scenes featuring the car.

9. Puberty made filming a little harder

During filming for Chamber of Secrets, Daniel Radcliffe and Rupert Grint (Ron) both had to deal with their voices breaking. There are rumors that Radcliffe had a voice double toward the end of filming.

Additionally, Radcliffe was required to shave his leg for the scene where Harry reveals to Dobby and Lucius Malfoy that he's missing a sock!

10. Tom Riddle's name was taken from an actual dead guy

Several of Rowling's character names come from actual tombstones in the Greyfriars Kirk churchyard in Edinburgh, including Tom Riddle. Tom Riddell, Esq. died when he was 72 years old in 1806. Incidentally, when Voldemort dies in the final battle at Hogwarts, he's 71.

More: Celebrate Harry Potter's 20th Anniversary With These Baby Names From the Books

11. In other languages, Lord Voldemort has different names

"I am Lord Voldemort," is a cool anagram of Tom Marvolo Riddle, but only in English. To make the wordplay work in other languages, his name had to change. For example: in Spanish, his name is Tom Sorvolo Ryddle ("Yo soy Lord Voldemort"), and in German, it's Tom Vorlost Riddle ("Ist Lord Voldemort"). The books have been translated into 68 languages.

12. Speaking of languages...

The Cambridge University linguistics department developed the actual language of Parseltongue, which Harry and Voldemort use to communicate with snakes.

13. Moaning Myrtle was the oldest student at Hogwarts

Literally and figuratively. In Chamber of Secrets, Myrtle would have been 63 years old — if she had lived. Actress Shirley Henderson, who plays Myrtle, was 36 at the time of filming.

14. John Williams supposedly reused some Star Wars beats for the Quidditch scenes

Ever wonder why some of the music in the Chamber of Secrets Quidditch match sounds familiar? Theories abound that composer John Williams recycled some of the beats from the music he wrote for the speeder chase in Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones.

15. The Chamber of Secrets theatrical trailer premiered before the live-action Scooby-Doo

In June 2002, moviegoers who went to see the live-action Scooby-Doo got a special trailer treat. How many people do you think went to the theater just for a sneak peek at Chamber of Secrets?

Soaps.com covered the annual Day of Days event at Universal Citywalk on Saturday, Nov. 11. Kristyn Burtt had fun interviewing various Days stars about their characters, the new head writer and what's to come. We produced video footage, which readers can view below, and have a Day of Days 2017 gallery in addition to that. We learned that (spoiler) Eileen Davidson will once again play Kristen DiMera in the latest Days of Our Lives spoiler promo, where there are many surprises in store, including suspense, romance, drama and heartbreak that nobody saw coming.

More: Lisa Rinna Is Going to Shake Things Up on Days of Our Lives

Stephen Nichols and Mary Beth Evans talk about what it was like behind-the-scenes during that crazy Halloween episode, forgiving Tripp, a return for Joey and the new writing regime under Ron Carlivati.

Judi Evans (Adrienne/Bonnie) discussed studying to get back into her role as Bonnie, Adrienne's choice — Lucas vs. Justin — and Evans tells us who in the cast she'd prefer to be stranded with on a desert island.

Lucas Adams (Tripp) talked about the trust issues Tripp has, his thoughts on his new family, the trio living in the loft and how Tripp feels about Claire.

Marci Miller (Abigail), Billy Flynn (Chad) talked a little about the Halloween episode and Miller took over and discussed how relatable Abby and Chad are to fans, the rocky road coming for the couple and some silly thoughts on who Massey would choose if there were a triangle between him, Miller and Flynn.

Christopher Sean (Paul), Freddie Smith (Sonny) and Chandler Massey (Will) responded to questions about who Sonny is going to choose — Paul or Will — and each actor wore a button to show their support. Massey shares Will's state of mind, which will cause issues between him and Sonny.

Kassie DePaiva (Eve) talked about Eve marrying Deimos and causing chaos, working at Basic Black, the possibilities of Theresa returning and what it's been like for her, returning after battling cancer and all the support she received.

Eric Martsolf (Brady) discussed Brady vs. Eric and what Brady has been going through and how Brady's broken and will search for something to fill that pain. Martsolf teased that Eve Donovan coming into the picture is interesting... and how Brady will have to step up his fatherly skills with Tate.

Lauren Koslow (Kate) and Thaao Penghlis (André) opened up about getting "into the moment" with regard to their characters and how they allow "the element of surprise" in their scenes. The actors discuss their similarities and differences.

More: Eileen Davidson Is Returning to Days of Our Lives

Casey Moss (JJ) and Sal Stowers (Lani) talked up the Halloween episode and how Moss had no idea that his girlfriend, True O'Brien was returning as Paige. They recalled how they felt about Lani getting JJ's job back for him and how once he was back on the job, JJ shot Lani's brother, Theo.

Lamon Archey (Eli) and Camila Banus (Gabi) dished on how Eli complicates Gabi's emotions and her heartbreaking thoughts on Chad, then Archey gave his own thoughts on Eli working for SPD. Then Banus had fun playing "Shag, Marry, Kill."

Vanessa Williams (Val) and James Reynolds (Abe) gloat over Abe finally getting a love life and the big upcoming storyline with Abe's son, Theo, getting shot by the man dating his daughter, Lani, and how that story will affect the entire community of Salem and the families.

Galen Gering (Rafe) and Kristian Alfonso (Hope) got into what's going on with their characters, especially Hope's inability to set a wedding date. Alfonso explains what Hope is feeling, Rafe's reaction to this and when asked point blank about the wedding, the actors were very quiet. Of course, Soaps.com learned hours later that Rafe and Hope will be breaking up...

Nadia Björlin (Chloe) and Bryan Dattilo (Lucas) had fun talking about Lucas' demons, what it's like taking his work home and what it'll take to get Lucas back on the wagon. When asked what will happen between Chloe and Lucas, there were a lot of maybes. They talked about the new head writer and their thoughts on what Ron Carlivati adds to the show.

Drake Hogestyn (John) and Deidre Hall (Marlena) got right into discussing the possibility of the much-discussed wedding for their characters before making out. During Day of Days, Soaps.com tweeted with other fans and included some candid shots of their favorite stars...

Susan Hayes (Julie) and Bill Hayes (Doug) went back to the beginning of their time on Days of Our Lives with Kristyn Burtt, Soaps.com's reporter, and are excited to be really involved in the show, not just go on cruises and be present for Christmas episodes... and how Louise Sorel's (Vivian) return will rock Salem.

More: Victoria Rowell's Lawsuit Against Days of Our Lives Comes to a Curious End

There are so many exciting things planned for DOOL, we hardly know which teaser to be the most excited about. Are you ready for all the drama headed to Salem in 2018?

If you're wondering how Ben Affleck plans to spend his first holiday season post-divorce, don't worry — he's got plans. Unfortunately, there's no real word on whether they include his ex, Jennifer Garner (come on, you know there's still a tiny part of you hoping they reconcile).

More: Ben Affleck Wants to Help End Sexual Harassment in Hollywood

On the red carpet for the premiere of his new Justice League movie, Affleck was asked what plans he has for Thanksgiving. For him, it'll be no work and all family time.

"We're all gonna have Thanksgiving together," he said. "We'll go down and see Matt [Damon] and his family and have a nice time."

So that could mean Garner will be there, or it could just mean Affleck, the kids and his perpetual partner-in-bromance, Damon, which, honestly, we would be OK with.

More: Jason Momoa Apologizes for the "Truly Tasteless" Rape Joke He Made in 2011

There's also no word on whether Affleck's rumored new girlfriend, Lindsay Shookus, will take part in the family-centric Thanksgiving celebration. They seem to still be going strong — they were last spotted out together last week in New York City — but they've been pretty private about their relationship, so we don't know if it's on a level where she celebrates holidays with Affleck and his kids.

One thing that probably should be part of the Thanksgiving celebration for the Afflecks, though, is a movie night; Affleck also revealed that his kids, who are huge Batman fans, haven't seen his new movie.

More: Paparazzi Are Tracking Ben Affleck & Jennifer Garner's Every Move

"I'd like to take them to a regular theater at some point," he explained. There's no better time to hit the theater than right after a huge Thanksgiving meal, if you ask us.

In 2016, fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad made history as the first U.S. Olympian to compete in a hijab. Eventually, she became the first Muslim-American to bring home a medal (bronze, to be exact). Now, she’s making history again as the inspiration for the first hijab-wearing Barbie.

Set to be released in 2018, the doll, created in Muhammad’s likeness, will join a line of Mattel “sheroes” modeled after other boundary-breaking women such as Zendaya, Ashley Graham, Misty Copeland and more.

More: I'm a Muslim, I'm an Activist, & I Don't "Hate" Gay People

“Barbie is celebrating Ibtihaj not only for her accolades as an Olympian, but for embracing what makes her stand out,” says Sejal Shah Miller, vice president of global marketing for Barbie. “Ibtihaj is an inspiration to countless girls who never saw themselves represented, and by honoring her story, we hope this doll reminds them that they can be and do anything.”

Muhammad, who was presented with her doll at Glamour's 2017 Women of the Year Summit, hopes this historic moment will inspire the next generation of girls to live fearlessly.

More: Barbie Changes Are Nice, But They're Not Going to Fix Girls' Body Issues

“Through playing with Barbie, I was able to imagine and dream about who I could become,” she said in a statement. “I love that my relationship with Barbie has come full circle, and now I have my own doll wearing a hijab that the next generation of girls can use to play out their own dreams.”

Congratulations, Ibtihaj!

This story was originally published on StyleCaster.

Condoms aren't everyone's favorite method of birth control. In fact, there are several common complaints about condoms, including their contribution to diminishing sensation, their discomfort and their poor fit. According to a statement from myONE Perfect Fit, most condoms are almost 7 inches long, which is more than an inch too long for the average penis, which is 5.57 inches. The company cited a study with a sample of 1,661 American men in which nearly 83 percent of the participants had a penis shorter than the average condom.

And a note on size for those who are curious: Only 2.28 percent of the male population has an abnormally small penis, and that same percentage translates to those who have an abnormally large penis.

While currently, only a third of American men wear condoms (likely due to the sizing issues for a lot of those who don't), the company myONE Perfect Fit has created a custom-fit condom to ensure sexual safety and health. The company, based in Boston, has launched 60 different sizes with 10 different lengths and nine circumferences.

More: The Vegan Condom Option You’ve Been Waiting For

The company’s president Davin Wedel told The New York Times that within hours of going on sale, customers had “ordered condoms in all 60 sizes.”

One of the quirks of the company is that they randomize lettering and numbers to title the condom sizes. Instead of ordering a size in inches or centimeters, the size may be called B17, for example.

The company has been in the process of becoming available in the United States since 2011. The FDA, ASTM International and ISO prevented the company from moving forward earlier because of their view on condoms being a medical device and specific regulations related to that.

Various condom sizes have been available in other countries, but American standards allowed for a small group of lengths and widths. The company worked alongside the FDA and researchers to create a concise and concrete study to prove that one size does not fit all.

Moreover, STIs are on the rise. Condom use and protection is important. A 2016 CDC report found that 1.59 million cases of chlamydia, 468,000 cases of gonorrhea and almost 28,000 cases of syphilis have impacted people.

More: Thinking About Having Sex Without a Condom? Read This First

Can proper sizing really increase the probability someone will wear a condom during sex?

The company urges individuals with a penis to wear condoms — there can be no more excuses of improper fit and discomfort — 60 to 70 percent of condom users complain about the condom being too long and tight around the base of the penis, causing loss of erection. MyONE Fit also explains on their website that other condoms only fit 12 percent of men properly.

MyONE Fit isn’t the first of its kind, however. Condom companies seem to be creating new size options for all types of grande, venti and trenta sizes.

But with the start of a custom-size condom company, men may be able to get the correct idea about how to accurately, and without shame, shop for condoms.

How does myONE Perfect Fit work?

Customers are able to print out a FitKit which helps those who will be wearing the condom figure out their accurate size. If preferred, a customer can also type in their custom measurements. Moreover, past condom purchases will help those at the company find a perfect match.

Condoms are shipped in discrete packaging and come in packs of six, 12 and 24.

The company also sells regular condoms and lubrication as well.

More: Thinking About Having Sex Without a Condom? Read This First

What’s in it for women?

The Indian Council of Medical Research found that 20 percent of condoms fail because they aren’t the right size for the wearer.

The company brands itself as a production of better and safer pleasure products. This includes new technology that can enhance pleasure but also provide safety for all parties involved. By making sex safer, the company hopes to make sex more fun. Their educational portion includes imperative articles for sexually active people and how those wearing condoms can provide a better conversation surrounding sex. Women benefit from myONE Fit because the conversation is beginning outside of the bedroom among researchers and professionals who see the importance of safe sex.

The bespoke condoms are receiving a bit of criticism — as men may still find the process too “complicated,” or “tiresome,” but the company hopes to educate and help men keep their bodies and their partner’s bodies safe.

Wedel said in a statement about his company: “MyONE has the potential to change people’s perception of condoms and ultimately, reduce the number of unintended pregnancies and STI occurrences.”

While the average condom may work for you and your partner, it’s essential to stay protected, and why not take advantage of new technology while we have it? Just like your morning coffee or a bra size, one size does not fit all. Catering to length, width and girth are pertinent in creating a comfortable fit for a penis, and therefore encouraging safe sex for everyone involved.

By S. Nicole Lane

Have you ever dreamed of moving your family to some far-flung city or wondered how parents cope with childbirth and day care... on the other side of the world? While many aspects of motherhood are universal — babies are cute, labor can be excruciating — different countries and cultures approach the nuts and bolts of parenting in some super-unique ways. Tradition, access to health care and attitudes about gender norms all play a part.

So, what’s it like to raise your children oceans, several time zones and a hemisphere away from the United States?

More: Are Americans Alone in Their Obsession With Baby Showers?

Auckland-based mother of two Maia Whaitiri-Fielding shares her experiences doing just that. Though Whaitiri-Fielding, who is of Maori descent, spent much of her 20s living in New York City and London, she and her British husband, Rob, chose to return to her native New Zealand before welcoming son Kaha, now 4, and daughter Tawera, 2.

“What I love about raising my children in New Zealand is the outdoors lifestyle,” the stay-at-home mom told us. “Auckland is set on two harbors, so you see the sea everywhere you go, and we spend all summer at the beach. The downsides are that it’s incredibly expensive for housing, food and trips abroad,” she added. “Building standards are low, so a lot of people live in uninsulated, unheated houses. The gap between rich and poor is increasing.” That said, New Zealand boasts a refreshing approach to pregnancy and childbirth, free health care for all and a standard 18 weeks of parental leave. So there's that.

Here’s what to expect when you’re expecting in New Zealand.

Pregnancy

“I’d say New Zealand’s approach to childbirth is that it’s a natural process, and there should be as little intervention as possible,” Whaitiri-Fielding said, noting that prenatal scans may be less frequent in New Zealand than in the States unless there are complications or particular health concerns.

More surprising is the fact that expectant mothers in New Zealand aren't required to have health insurance; they have the option of choosing between government-funded (i.e., free) and private, out-of-pocket services. The first step is to select a lead maternity carer. The LMC will shepherd the mother-to-be through pregnancy and delivery and make visits up to six weeks after the baby has been born.

Under the government-funded option, the LMC is a midwife, though specialists will be made available free of charge should an issue such as gestational diabetes arise. Under the private option, an obstetrician or general practitioner oversees the pregnancy. The process is more hands-on, but the cost can run a few thousand dollars. (Still not much compared to U.S. birth costs.)

More: The SheKnows Guide to Giving Birth

Childbirth

Most New Zealand women give birth in a private room or birthing suite at a public hospital. All rooms are fully equipped with pools, Swiss balls and birthing stools to aid delivery. Whaitiri-Fielding says New Zealand women are encouraged to give birth vaginally. But caesareans aren’t unheard of; expectant mothers are eligible for free elective caesareans — you read that right — if there are any complications during the current or previous pregnancies. A free emergency caesarean may also be performed if the mother or child is at risk.

For the simplest deliveries, some mothers opt for a primary birthing hospital like Birthcare. Here, babies are delivered vaginally without epidurals in a free birthing suite outfitted with aromatherapy burners and labor aids.

Finally, there’s the option of a home birth, though women are typically charged for the cost of an ambulance should complications arise that require hospital transportation.

Post-baby

In New Zealand, maternity care doesn’t end when mother and child leave the hospital. LMCs will make home visits for four to six weeks after the birth, at which point a registered Plunket nurse will take over with child care guidance and support, all free of charge. Regular checkups are provided at 8 weeks, 3 months, 5 months, 9 months, 15 months, 2 years and 4 years. Immunizations are also free and are often required if parents want to enroll their child in a day care or nursery.

Breastfeeding

Whaitiri-Fielding said New Zealand takes a refreshingly liberal view of breastfeeding in public. “Malls have breastfeeding rooms, but you don’t have to use them,” she noted. “I have never experienced any kind of issue, and I fed my kids everywhere without one of those modesty things.”

If anything, she says, it's moms who don’t breastfeed who feel shamed in New Zealand. “In my opinion, New Zealand is too focused on ‘breast is best,’” she added. “Friends of mine who have been unable to breastfeed due to medical reasons have often been judged for bottle-feeding their children formula. It’s led them to feel guilty and uncomfortable in public situations.” 

Parental leave

The standard amount of paid parental leave is 18 weeks. There are also plans tailored to self-employment and premature births. One parent may also transfer their leave to the other, while a new law allows parents to use their vacation time before filing for formal paid parental leave.

Maori culture

Whaitiri-Fielding, who is of Maori descent, hasn’t incorporated any particular Maori customs into her parenting style, though she and her husband did plant their children’s placentas as a nod to her heritage. But those in New Zealand who want to raise their children according to Maori values can opt for a Maori state school, commonly known as a kura.

Child care

As in most countries, child care in New Zealand can be costly, with options ranging from nannies to day care centers to drop-in creches at malls and health clubs. Children typically start school at age 5. Prior to that, they attend kindergarten. Kindergarten in New Zealand is similar to a preschool, with students starting from age 3. The government funds up to 20 hours of "kindergarten" per week for toddlers — aka the "universal" free pre-K the U.S. is still wishing for.

More: Hate Today's Politics? Here's How to Teach Kids About Tolerance

New Zealand, like any country, has its flaws. But all this free health care, preschool and generous approach to parental leave may tip the balance in its favor for some prospective parents — especially those who are faced with essentially the opposite in the ever-expensive United States.

Anybody who's seen Netflix's Gaga: 5'2" knows Lady Gaga is one of the most empathetic, compassionate celebrities (or even just people in general) out there. We don't deserve her, TBH. Over the weekend, she proved that yet again.

More: Lady Gaga Is Engaged Again, but This Time, Not to Taylor Kinney

At her Saturday night concert in Connecticut, Gaga noticed that a fan had been hit in the face in the crowd, something that can pretty easily happen at a high-energy show, and that she was bleeding. Gaga, bless her, straight up stopped the concert to check in with the fan and make sure she was OK. A video posted to Twitter shows the interaction, and it's been going viral for good reason.

More: What You Need to Know About Fibromyalgia — Lady Gaga's Chronic Pain Condition

"Hi, I just looked over and I saw. Are you doing all right?" Gaga can be heard asking the injured fan in the video. "Are you gonna stay? Do you need some extra help? Do you need a paramedic? They're on their way? OK."

Luckily, paramedics make their way to the injured woman pretty quickly, and because she is a literal angel, Gaga gives her backstage passes so she can stay and enjoy the rest of the show while she gets treated. Before starting her next song, Gaga tells the crowd, "What we all need to remember is that there are some things that are more important than show business."

More: Lady Gaga Officially Has the Worst Wax Figure of All Time

Amen to that. And bless Gaga for giving us such a solid reminder of what's really important. If more people took care of each other like that, the world would truly be a better place.

Who would have thought Prince Harry might actually be, of all things, a rule-breaker? It might be difficult to believe because Prince Harry is a charming slice of the British monarchy and a beloved international treasure, but alas, here we are wondering whether he may have broken a rule. Prince Harry? A rule-breaker? Surely you jest!

More: A Definitive Timeline of Meghan Markle & Prince Harry’s Relationship in 2017

Accusations Prince Harry violated British military dress code were made earlier this week when it was believed the beard he sported (as he has done for a few years now) during a Remembrance Day ceremony was improper. The beard itself, which you can see in a photo below, isn't unruly at all, nor is it exactly unkempt or gross. In fact, it looks like Harry's doing a bang-up job keeping it in all in order.

Which makes The Daily Mail's claims that Harry's beard is somehow breaking a military dress code all the more disheartening. The U.K. outlet zeroed in on Harry's beard, quoting a source who claimed Harry's beard was an affront to the entire military. "There's no place for beards in the Queen's cavalry. He should have shaved it off for such an important day," they reportedly stated.

More: Meghan Markle & Prince Harry Are Kinda, Sorta Related

It's worth noting that it seems the rule about British officers in the military being clean-shaven may only apply to men currently serving, as noted by Refinery29 and an astute user on Twitter who goes by the name Books of Dublin. Seeing as Harry left the army in 2015, it sounds like The Daily Mail is being alarmist for no reason. Army blues or not, he's probably not violating any sacred military dress codes.

Of course, some responded with serious eye rolls at the hullabaloo, like these folks: 

More: Prince Harry & Michelle Obama Gave a School of Kids the Best Halloween Surprise

So can we all take a chill pill now and let Harry (and his super-attractive beard) live a little?

If you thought your love of Jason Momoa was already maxed out, think again. The Game of Thrones and Aquaman star just did a long feature with Men's Health magazine, and it's full of solid-gold information about Momoa that's only going to make you love him more.

More: Khal Drogo & Daenerys Targaryen Had a Reunion IRL, & We Have Lost Our Chill

The thing that's going to really change the way you see Momoa is the way he talks about being a dad. It might just be the best part of the entire interview.

"I really can’t tell you what the hell I was doing before I had kids," he said. "Just fucking off. Wasting time. I think I was pretty reckless and definitely a bit out of control. Now I’m more focused. I probably love myself more and take care of myself more because I want to stick around."

His experience raising two kids who are rapidly approaching their teenage years has given Momoa a new idea too. He wants to get some of his actor friends together for a project where they all "just [talk] about being a good dad."

More: 8 Things to Know About Jason Momoa & Why We're So Obsessed

"Sometimes you don’t learn it from your parents. You learn it from your best friends," he continued. "Instead of just, 'This is what a man’s supposed to be' and all the bullshit stuff out there, you can make something really positive. The truth is we’re all searching. We’re all looking for guidance, for mentors, and I’m by no means someone to follow. I’m a degenerate too, you know? I have my ups and my downs like anyone. All I can do is be me."

Of course, if he's going to talk about being a "degenerate," Momoa has to address the scandal that hit him last month when a video from a 2011 Comic-Con resurfaced showing him joking about how he loved his GoT character because he got to "rape beautiful women." Momoa has since apologized, but he's moving on and hoping people pay more attention to what's important to him: his family.

More: Jason Momoa Finally Married Lisa Bonet in the Secret Wedding of Our Dreams

"I want to be remembered as, I hope, an amazing husband and a great father. My kids are my greatest piece of art. If I can pump them full of amazing stuff and surround them with beautiful art and music, then I’m going to live out my life watching them. They’re already way smarter and just way better than me," he said. "It’s beautiful. I want it to be the greatest thing I ever do: make good humans."

It's that time of year again, that special time when People magazine announces who they have chosen as the Sexiest Man Alive for the year. But prepare yourself, because People's choice is going to inspire strong feelings within you one way or another, and you may find yourself in good company if you happen to strongly dislike People's choice.

More: Blake Shelton's Mom Almost Caused Him to Give Up Singing

On Tuesday evening, it was announced that Blake Shelton is People's Sexiest Man Alive 2017. That's right. The country crooner who likes to mess around with The Voice co-judge Adam Levine and date the heck out of his other Voice co-judge Gwen Stefani. That Blake Shelton.

Shelton couldn't contain his excitement at earning the coveted pop-culture superlative. In fact, in his People profile for the Sexiest Man announcement, he joked that he "can’t wait to shove this up Adam’s ass," going on to say, "As proud as I am and honored that you guys asked me, that’s really the only thing I care about."

He also took a moment to remark how Stefani was encouraging him to totally live in the moment and get pumped about being the Sexiest Man Alive. "She goes, ‘Listen to me, you’re going to regret this for the rest of your life if you don’t take this gift and just live in the moment," he told People.

More: Adam Levine Says Gwen Stefani & Blake Shelton's Relationship Is "Disgusting"

So, it's all well and good that Shelton and Stefani are pleased with this news, but what about the rest of us?

If you, like the writer of this news and, well, the entire damn internet are scratching your head, your confusion isn't entirely unfounded. Listen, we all know beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so we can't harsh too much on the choice. However, with previous Sexiest Men alum Brad Pitt, Ryan Reynolds, Channing Tatum and Chris Hemsworth and notable 2016 choice Dwayne Johnson as the precedent, there's something that feels a bit, well, off about Shelton, right? No? Just me?

Turns out, it's not just me. Many folks on Twitter (this is just one tiny, tiny portion of the reactions, fam) feel like there were plenty of other choices for Sexiest Man Alive — and they didn't waste time making their feelings known.

More: Are Blake Shelton & Gwen Stefani Trying to Get Pregnant?

Of course, it wasn't a total pile-on — just a lot of people with questions, concerns and strong emotions. But while it seemed like most folks were not excited by news of Shelton's newfound status as the Sexiest Man Alive, there were some who reacted pleasantly.

So, I guess the big question is: Does Shelton deserve to be People's Sexiest Man Alive for 2017? I'll leave that decision up to you. Something tells me you know the right answer.

Cinnamon is one of my favorite tastes and smells all year, and I love how prominent it is during the holiday season. For me, the spice smells like home (probably because my mother used to put a pot of water with cinnamon sprinkled in on the stove as an air freshener — something I do now in my own apartment). Beyond that, she has long touted its health benefits, which I think of each morning as I put cinnamon in my coffee. But is there any medical basis to this? I spoke with a few doctors to find out.

Turns out, the answer isn’t exactly straightforward. According to Dr. Rahil Bandukwala, an endocrinologist at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, California, there are multiple theoretical and suggested benefits from cinnamon covering anti-inflammatory, anticancer and antidiabetic actions.

But Dr. Bhavesh B. Shah, the medical director of interventional gastroenterology at MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center in Long Beach, California, points out that there are some conflicting studies and theories about cinnamon and health benefits, and at this stage, there have been no conclusive trials demonstrating any clear health benefit.

More: What Are the Health Benefits of Ginger?

Shah explains it is important to consider, though, that a study attempting to discern the health benefits of cinnamon would be very difficult to conduct, and the results would be in question regardless for several reasons, including bias, lifestyles, genetic effects and other medical conditions.

If there are health benefits, what are they?

Some of the proposed health benefits are related to the fact that cinnamon is considered an antioxidant, Shah explains.

It also has the reputation for being beneficial for those with diabetes, specifically, Bandukwala notes, it is thought that derivatives of the spice may improve insulin secretion.

Other proposed health benefits are a reduced level of glucose in diabetic patients, improvement in blood pressure, improvement in symptoms of multiple sclerosis and reduction in cholesterol, he adds, noting that some of these studies were conducted solely on animals, but have been proposed to be beneficial for humans as well.

More: What Is "Golden Milk" & Are There Any Health Benefits?

How much should you take?

The U.S. Department of Health does not recommend a dose higher than 6 grams per day for six weeks or less, Shah says. There are two main types of cinnamon: Ceylon cinnamon and cassia cinnamon, each of which has slightly different ingredients and makeup.

“Coumarin, a chemical compound, is present in cassia cinnamon and has been reported to cause liver damage in rare cases as well as acting as a blood thinner,” he explains, noting that this is important to consider if you are on a blood thinner already as per your physician. Also — and this seems like common sense — don’t take or use cinnamon if you are allergic to it.

More: These Foods Actually Improve Your Eyesight

Like anything else, don’t take too much cinnamon. According to Dr. Theodore Sy, a gastroenterologist at MemorialCare Medical Group in Aliso Viejo, California, although there is some mixed evidence showing improvement in fatty liver disease and glucose intolerance and diabetes, certain types of cinnamon can be toxic to the liver in large amounts.

“My practice is to encourage adding cinnamon to the diet as a supplement but not as a replacement for any medications I prescribe for diabetes,” Bandukwala explains.

While it might not be a miracle supplement, cinnamon does appear to have some properties that could end up being beneficial. Either way, go ahead and add that extra sprinkle to your coffee.

This time last year, I had grown disillusioned with my hair. It wasn’t that I didn’t actually like my hair. Although it admittedly took years for me to do that, I was simply tired of throwing it into the same styles. And I’ve tried them all. Marley twists, box braids, cornrows, a simple blowout; you name it and I’ve probably done it… twice.

So, you can understand why I threw all caution to the wind and decided to chop all of it off. There was no deep meaning or epiphany behind my big chop. I did it on a whim without knowing what it would look like or how it would make me feel. The truth is that when my stylist first whirled my chair around to face the mirror, I Freaked. Out. There were no tears or angry words, but on the inside, I thought, “Wow. This is a lot to take in.”

That confidence that I had walked into the salon with was gone. So I had to grin and bear it until I got into an Uber and could cover my TWA (teeny-weeny afro) with a beanie. One, my head was cold, and two, what had I just done?! After a week or so, my shock did subside and eventually, I grew to love this new version of me.

More: The Fiercest Celebrity Hair Transformations of 2017

The biggest takeaway was that random hair makeovers are not for the faint-hearted. I admire anyone with a tenacity for transformation, but if you’re like me, there are a set of guidelines that will definitely ease the transition into a new look.

Read ahead for my tried-and-true rules for makeover preparation.

Start with inspiration

I’ve never been one to model myself after celebrities, prominent figures or other people in general (besides my mom, of course). However, I do wish I'd taken the time to browse magazines, Pinterest, Instagram and other social feeds for hairstyles I might actually enjoy wearing everyday. When I discovered the The Cut Life Instagram page after my big chop, it felt as though I had done everything backward.

More: The All-Time Best Sephora Products for Textured Hair

Here was a treasure trove of short hairstyle ideas that I could have saved and shown to a hairstylist beforehand and instead, I made an appointment without consulting first. The truth is, a good hairstylist will always recommend that you sit down to discuss the transformation beforehand, but at the end of the day, they’ll move forward if you tell them you’re ready. Patience is a virtue in many aspects of life, but especially when it involves our hair and beauty choices. Don’t be afraid to slow down and weigh your options before sitting in a salon chair.

Know your texture

With that being said, keep your hair’s curl pattern (or lack thereof) in mind when browsing potential hairstyles. Gravitate toward men and women who share your same texture; this is the best way to tell if a style will look good on you before going through with it. For instance, if someone with pin straight hair brought a picture of Alicia Keys to their stylist, a true professional would probably advise against such a drastic change because of the potential damage it will do to your strands.

More: 7 Insider Secrets to Surviving a Bikini Wax

There’s a little more wiggle room with hair color since so many temporary options are available. However, consulting with a stylist is still necessary so you can be educated on the healthiest way to manipulate your hair’s shade. A pro can also help you identify your hair’s texture if you have no idea what it is to begin with.

Consider your lifestyle

If there was one thing I knew my big chop guaranteed, it was a style that better fit my day-to-day schedule. My morning routine is almost always rushed and subsequently, leaves little time for hairstyling and makeup application. When considering a hair makeover, know that it will change your schedule in some way.

More: Have Short Hair? Then You Need These Chic Accessories

Maybe you’ll have more time to sleep in the mornings. Perhaps you’ll need a little extra time in front of the mirror. If your hair-spiration comes from a friend or family member, ask them to share their routine so you can ask questions and consider whether you’d be willing to do the same thing.

Prepare for a new routine

This is not to be confused with an overall lifestyle change. We’re talking about your product lineup; the spritzes, creams and sprays you use everyday. This was the biggest surprise for me because I assumed that shorter hair would equal fewer products on my vanity. Boy, was I wrong. I actually ended up using the same amount and even added a few new ones into the mix.

More: The Black-Owned Hair Brands Curly Girls Can Trust

Because I used this as an opportunity to adopt healthier hair habits, I was introduced to an entirely new part of the curly girl world and soon realized that hair length really has nothing to do with the amount of products you use. Your hair’s health is the first priority. For some, that means having a regimented multistep routine. For others, that could mean the complete opposite. If you aren’t able to consult with an expert about the best products for your new hairstyle, anticipate a lot of trial and error in the future.

Remember it doesn’t last forever

Lastly, know that you’re not permanently tied to a look you may not love. We obviously can’t turn back time, especially with drastic haircuts, but fostering a healthy hair routine means it will grow back faster and stronger than you think. More often than not, it takes a little extra time to settle into a new hairdo. Remember why you did it in the first place, and if that came from a place of preparation and a genuine need for change, you’ll be just fine.

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

Pine has been used as a deodorizer to rid the world of knock-your-hair-back smells for ages — which is exactly why its latest use as a kitty litter is so genius.

More: 11 Cat Projects You Can DIY With Materials You've Already Got

We're teaching you all about the history of the scent of pine and why it's so perfect to help with kitty odors. (Spoiler alert: It's because kittens look so cute frolicking in tree branches.)

This post is sponsored advertising content by the maker of Feline Pine™ and SheKnows Media.

Originally published October 2016. Updated November 2017.

Mandy Moore has had a ride over the last year few people will experience in their entire lifetimes. With the wild success of This Is Us also came an engagement to Dawes musician, Taylor Goldsmith. The happiness she exudes in her career and her personal life is palpable. Moore has a lot to be grateful for with her love life and career dovetailing in an arc of success, but she certainly doesn’t take it for granted.

More: Mandy Moore’s This Is Us Family Is Beyond Excited About Her Engagement

“[I am grateful for] health and happiness for the people in my life that I love. I have been doing this for 18 years since I was 15. We all have career and personal ebbs and flows, and I feel this wave that I’ve found at this point in my life, I am able to really reflect on what I’ve been through,” she explained to SheKnows at the Blue Cash Everyday and Blue Cash Preferred by American Express event last week. “I have this awareness that I didn’t have as a younger person — being engaged and having this job that I love so much. I love the people that I get to work with. It’s across the board; there’s a lot to appreciate.”

Moore first came to prominence in the entertainment industry with her 1999 hit single, “Candy.” She also dabbled in acting around the same time with turns in The Princess Diaries and A Walk to Remember. After so many years under her belt, Moore has a lot of advice for her younger self.

“The fearlessness to say no sometimes is an important one,” she said. “I am a people-pleaser, and as a younger person, I was always OK to say yes to jobs I didn’t want to do — not in a way that was detrimental to myself, but it set up a bad pattern for me.”

More: Prepare Yourself: Mandy Moore Is Releasing New Music

Moore never really found herself in trouble as a teen star, but she was almost too disciplined in her younger days. She feels like she missed out on a few experiences as a result.

“On the flip side, I found it was easy to say no to other things. I remember traveling around the world and being like an old grandma already. I remember saying no to experiences like exploring a city or going to dinner and pushing my bedtime a little later or trying a new restaurant with people I was working with in Prague,” Moore shared. “I was so laser-focused on waking up and doing the job, so I would tell myself to relax and have a little bit more fun. I skipped out on a portion of my life where I look back and think it’s a little too late to do anything crazy.”

She is hoping to act a little crazy and cross off a longtime bucket list item in 2018.

“I have always wanted to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. If I don’t plan it now, it’s never going to happen,” Moore said. “I just have to have it on the books. A dear friend is going to do it with me during my hiatus before I start shooting the next season."

Moore hasn’t been in a rush to plan her wedding just yet because she’s really enjoying the journey she’s been on. Her path over the last decade had a lot of highs and lows that included her first marriage to musician Ryan Adams. While she doesn’t outright name him, it’s clear there were a lot of lessons learned in that relationship.

“I wouldn’t have been ready for this relationship [with Goldsmith] at any other point in my life until recently. I had a lot of work to do on myself. It sounds so self-help-y and silver lining, but I had to go through particular experiences to get myself here,” Moore thoughtfully explained. “I don’t regret anything. I would do things exactly the same way. It’s all a lesson and there were beautiful moments in it, but I had to go through this crazy trail to find my way to where I am now.”

The couple is in the midst of renovating their new Los Angeles home, which is taking a lot longer than expected. However, she’s enjoying the process.

“It feels like a very adult house, which I’m excited about. I bought a house when I was 18 and I decorated it so shabby chic. It was like pink velvet threw up all over the house,” Moore laughed. “So I am excited about putting it together with Taylor and discovering where we want to hang our pictures.”

The delay in the house renovations also means she won’t be hosting Thanksgiving dinner this year. They are headed to her future mother-in-law’s house.

More: Mandy Moore's Parents Aren't So Sure About Her This Is Us Character

“It’s a Friendsgiving where it’s potluck and people come for a drink and then go eat dinner somewhere else. Then they might come back and have pie,” she said. “My mother-in-law is in charge of the turkey and I will make a carb like a potato or something and pie. I will also curate the music list. Next year, I will throw the gauntlet down when we’re in our new house.”

And even though she prefers “apple and pumpkin pie and a good cheese board” to turkey, most of her Thanksgiving will be about taking a pause and really being appreciative of all of her blessings.

“What I love about Thanksgiving is that moment in time when the meal stops and everyone goes around the table and talks about the year in review — everything that they are grateful for,” Moore summed up. “I don’t think there’s enough of that real talk and vulnerability in day-to-day life, and I love that’s what this holiday engenders. It encourages people to talk about what they are appreciative of.”

Updated Nov. 15, 2017, 11:00 am ET: Perhaps this week's cherry blossom-explosion baby shower was a heteronormative hint after all, because Kim Kardashian West just confirmed she's having a baby girl.

In her appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show Wednesday, Kardashian West casually dropped the news to DeGeneres while explaining how North and Saint are dealing with the anticipated arrival of their little sibling. Apparently, during said flower-filled shower, North started angling for the new kiddo's gifts. Kardashian West told DeGeneres that North suggested she keep the gifts — you know, just until the baby arrives: "Mom, since baby sister's not here, I think I need all her toys in my room and I'll play with them and make sure they're all OK for baby sister," North said according to Kardashian West.

"She's a toy-tester," laughed DeGeneres, "and you just told us it's a girl."

"Oh, I did," laughed Kardashian West. She seemed to be cool with the spillage, though, and moved the conversation right on to North's excitement about her own soon-to-be mini-me.

No news on the little gal's name, yet; Kardashian West seemed less-than-psyched about DeGeneres' suggestions of "Lip-Kit West," "Pop West" and "West West" — despite the fact that DeGeneres basically named Saint. Don't believe her? Watch the whole video below.

Original story:

Will the Kardashian clan ever get tired of fabulous baby showers? Nah, we doubt it. Kim Kardashian West just threw a gorgeous Japanese-inspired cherry blossom and tea-themed (just go with it; they're the Kardashians) baby shower for her soon-to-be third child with Kanye West. The baby is due via surrogate in early 2018, and Kardashian West confirmed the news back in September.

More: Kim K Confirms Surrogacy & Baby on the Way

The shower's glam attendees included: Kardashian West's pregnant sisters, Khloé Kardashian and Kylie Jenner; nonpregnant sis Kendall Jenner; daughter North West; Mama bear Kris Jenner; and close family friends Jen Atkin and Chrissy Teigen (who brought a homemade cake, because of course).

“It’s a hit. It’s a hit,” Atkin crowed in a Snapchat video of Kris Jenner slicing the cake with Teigen standing by.

“I’m going in!” Kris joked as she cut the confection.

Kardashian West documented the lovely shower setting on Snapchat, saying in videos, “OK, guys, [this is] my baby shower for Baby No. 3... It is a beautiful tea and cherry blossom forest.” And it really did feel like a forest of blossoms — complete with rose-colored backlit cherry trees that were something out of a Disney movie. No diaper cakes for this crew.

More: Caitlyn Jenner Calls Relationship With Kim Kardashian West "Unfortunate"

Guests seemed enchanted by the shower decorations, especially sister Khloé Kardashian, who posted an Instagram pic of herself wearing a gorgeous lace minidress in baby blue (a hint?!?) under the blossoms, captioned, "Cherry Blossoms and Tea for baby number three."

There was also a very happy North seen frolicking about looking quite charming in a sweet floral satin kimono. "Look at this cute little dress Northie’s wearing,” Kardashian West said in her Snapchats of the day.

But it would not be a true Kardash-event without some product placement, right? Kardashian West could not resist debuting her brand-new fragrance collection for her line KKW Beauty — in the form of gift boxes for the guests. She presented all three of her new fragrances at the shower: Crystal Gardenia, Crystal Gardenia Oud and Crystal Gardenia Citrus. The scents will be available on Wednesday (nice timing, Kim!). Kardashian West even posted a video of pal Teigen sampling one of the fragrances. “Look at Chrissy spraying it... it’s not face mist,” Kardashian West jokingly scolded Teigen.

Two parting questions: 1) How will Khloé Kardashian and Kylie Jenner possibly top this affair? 2) Was Kardashian West and Kanye West's surrogate at the party?

We kind of hope the brave woman was invited to partake in all the cherry blossoms and Chrissy Teigen cake and fancy perfume. Just saying.

This story was originally published on November 13, 2017 and was updated November 15, 2017.

One of the strongest couples on the current season of Dancing with the Stars just can't seem to get a break. Only days after pro Lindsay Arnold revealed she's recovering from a potentially serious knee injury, her celeb partner, Jordan Fisher, was forced to quit rehearsal early to get treatment for a scratched cornea.

More: DWTS Host Tom Bergeron's Comments About Witney Carson Are Raising Eyebrows

"His eye is looking worse and he left rehearsal early to go to the doctor," an insider told People magazine. "He also had to cancel some other commitments he had later in the day."

During Monday night's semifinals, where he and Arnold pushed through their respective injuries to nab the only perfect score of the night, Fisher revealed to host Erin Andrews what he was struggling with.

"I have a scratched cornea [due to] a nail in the eye," he said, adding after his and Arnold's performance, "everything hurts."

More: Sasha Pieterse Opens Up About PCOS — What You Need to Know About the Condition

"Light hurts, blinking hurts, keeping my eyes open hurts, it’s hard to see but it’s just one of those freak things," he said. "It’s definitely been the hardest couple of days in the competition, but we’re grateful that we’ve been able to cap these couple of days off like a pirate with one good leg and one good eye still managing to make a trip to the finals."

More: Maksim Chmerkovskiy Put All Feud Rumors to Rest With One Sweet Letter

It's common for a few celebs and pros to sustain injuries during the brutal rehearsal schedule DWTS requires, but this season has really taken no prisoners. Just a few weeks ago, a rib injury threatened to sideline violinist Lindsey Stirling, and in rehearsals before the season premiere, Property Brothers' Drew Scott injured his hamstring. We're going to need everyone on DWTS to be more careful from now on, thanks.

Updated Nov. 15, 2017, 8:35 a.m. PT: A third woman is now coming forward with allegations that Ed Westwick sexually assaulted her in 2014.

Rachel Eck, a creative director, spoke to BuzzFeed about a disturbing encounter she had with Westwick three years ago. Eck recounted how she was invited by her then-boyfriend, film producer Kaine Harling, to hang out with him and Westwick at a Hollywood hotel. According to Eck, Westwick was expecting to be set up with a female friend of hers at Harling's request. When that didn't happen, Westwick reportedly targeted Eck.

"[He would] try to kiss me or kind of push me up against the wall," she recounted. Apparently, when she tried to leave, things got worse. "Ed then pulled me onto the bed and aggressively groped me. I shoved him off as quickly as I could and left. I have never felt so uncomfortable in a situation like that in my entire life," she concluded.

Westwick has yet to publicly comment on these latest allegations and is currently being investigated by the LAPD for the initial rape allegations made against him by actor Kristina Cohen.

Updated Nov. 9, 2017, 11:05 a.m. PT:  As police continue their investigation into actor Kristina Cohen's allegations that Ed Westwick raped her, another woman has come forward alleging she was also raped by the Gossip Girl star.

Aurélie Wynn, who goes by Aurelie Marie Cao on her acting résumé, posted her story to Facebook, saying Westwick invited her to hang out with him, his roommate and another woman. Wynn says everyone decided to sleep there after they hung out until 5 a.m. because "there are plenty of bedrooms."

"And like Kristina, I said no and he pushed me face down and was powerless under his weight. I was wearing a one-piece bathing suit that he ripped, I was in complete shock, I am also very tiny," Wynn wrote. "When it was over I got my cellphone and found that the girl that had invited me had left or got kicked out. I had terrible service in the estate without access to the wifi and had to get another friend to get me an Uber out of there while Ed was passed out."

Wynn also claims she told Glee star Mark Salling, whom she was dating at the time, about the alleged rape, but that he blamed her and broke things off, and she struggled to get acting jobs after that.

"I am so incredibly thankful all of this is finally coming to light and that there is justice in the world," she wrote. "I believe you Kristina Cohen and thank you for speaking up so eloquently and really encompassing what young female actresses have to go through at the hands of men like Ed Westwick. Without you I would not have had the strength to speak up publicly about my ordeal."

Westwick has denied Cohen's allegations, saying he has never met her. He has not publicly commented on these new allegations.

Updated Nov. 8, 2017, 12:30 p.m. PT: According to The Hollywood Reporter, the Los Angeles Police Department is investigating claims that Gossip Girl actor Ed Westwick raped actor Kristina Cohen after she made the shocking allegation via a Facebook post and then filed a police report.

The Hollywood Reporter claims to have reviewed a copy of the police report, which they say states police are investigating Cohen's allegation that the "suspect forced victim to have sexual intercourse inside his residence ... three years ago."

Westwick has denied the accusation, but several people have corroborated Cohen's account, saying she told them about the alleged rape three years ago when she alleges it happened.

Original story:

Gossip Girl star Ed Westwick is at the center of shocking allegations made by another actor, Kristina Cohen. Late Monday, Cohen posted a lengthy Facebook testimony, graphically claiming that Westwick raped her while she and her then-boyfriend, an unnamed producer who was friends with Westwick, were at Westwick's home for a small gathering. Westwick responded within hours of the post going public.

More: Blake Lively Is Seriously Unrecognizable in These Photos From Her New Film

Cohen wrote on her personal Facebook page late Monday evening in full detail the alleged events that occurred three years ago involving herself and Westwick. Cohen credits the recent spate of testimonies from high-profile women and men wherein they detail their own alleged assault as the reason she has felt so comfortable to come forward now and speak.

She writes that she and her boyfriend at the time were at Westwick's house one evening for dinner when, seemingly out of nowhere, Westwick suggested that they should all have sex. Cohen then writes, "Ed insisted we stay for dinner. I said I was tired and wanted to leave, trying to get out of what was already an uncomfortable situation. Ed suggested I nap in the guest bedroom. The producer said we would stay for just another 20 more minutes to smooth everything over, and then we could leave."

More: Ben Affleck Wants to Help End Sexual Harassment in Hollywood

Cohen continues to detail what happened after she went to lie down in one of the bedrooms in Westwick's home. "So I went and laid down in the guest room where I eventually fell asleep, I was woken up abruptly by Ed on top of me, his fingers entering my body. I told him to stop, but he was strong. I fought him off as hard as I could but he grabbed my face in his hands, shaking me, telling me he wanted to fuck me. I was paralyzed, terrified. I couldn’t speak, I could no longer move. He held me down and raped me."

Her allegations are horrifying, to say the least, and she says her then-boyfriend blamed her for allowing the alleged rape to occur because he couldn't see how she didn't willingly participate in the act. That instinct to victim-blame, it would appear, had led to Cohen's silence — until now.

More: All the Celebrities Who Have Accused Harvey Weinstein of Sexual Misconduct — So Far

In the aftermath of the post, Westwick issued a firm denial of the allegations on his Instagram. "I do not know this woman. I have never forced myself in any manner, on a woman. I certainly have never committed rape," he wrote.

Warner Bros. couldn't have all the fun this weekend releasing its new Justice League movie. Nope, 20th Century Fox had to steal some of the thunder, so it did with a new trailer for Deadpool 2.

More: Ryan Reynolds Paid Sweet Homage to Wonder Woman

Before you get too excited, the trailer doesn't actually tell us much of anything about the movie. The plot has been kept tightly under wraps (although 20th Century Fox released a hilarious faux-synopsis earlier this week) and it looks like the teaser hasn't changed that. What it does reveal, though, is the kind of humor that made the first Deadpool so wildly popular hasn't changed at all. If anything, the next installment is going to be even more #NoFilter.

It's also honestly more like a short film than a trailer, considering there's very little about the actual movie in it. Ryan Reynolds stars as Deadpool, who is actually impersonating the mild-mannered and very recognizable painter Bob Ross. The setup is similar to Ross' show, except Deadpool appears a little too high and amped-up while teaching us how to paint some lovely landscapes with his slightly inappropriately named paint colors, like "yellow snow" and "Betty White."

More: Ryan Reynolds Posts a Statement About the Death of a Deadpool 2 Stuntwoman

After a lot of weird cut scenes of painting, some drug references and a few dirty jokes for good measure, we know Deadpool hasn't changed at all, and the humor is going to be just as candid and R-rated in the sequel as it was in the original. And then it cuts to some quick-fire clips of some of the action and special effects fans can expect to see in the next go-round. Again, there are no real plot details, but that doesn't detract from what this trailer is truly saying: The next Deadpool movie is going to be another wild, fun ride.

More: Ryan Reynolds Pokes Fun at Blake Lively's Transformation for Her New Film

Deadpool 2 hits theaters June 1.

I'm just going to go ahead and say the thing you're not supposed to say about the most beloved show on TV right now: I think This Is Us is making a mess of Kevin, and not in a good get-your-ugly-cry-on kind of way.

As a steadfast fan of NBC's tear-jerking series, I'm not quick to point out its flaws. Like any good fan, I'm strangely protective of it and ready to defend its honor at a moment's notice. But alas, I must admit I felt a nagging sense of disappointment the minute it became clear Kevin would succumb to "sins of the father" syndrome.

More: This Is Us Is Helping Me Grieve My Deceased Brother

In Season 1, we watched as bits and pieces of Kevin emerged through flashbacks. Growing up, he was the goofball. The ham. The pretty boy. He was rarely taken seriously aside from his looks, and that was a mold he struggled to break free of.

And he did.

So much so that we saw him come full circle by revisiting the set of The Manny, where he'd had his infamous meltdown a year before, to give a lighthearted cameo. It was also a sweet nod to his love for Sophie and the way she has always helped him see (and be) the best version of himself. Moments like this — and the ones where Kevin cradled a sobbing Randall or championed Kate through a crisis — pointed to who Kevin really is.

Then, the revelation that Kevin has become addicted to painkillers reared its ugly head. Here's the bottom line: Kevin is better than that cliché. Justin Hartley, who plays Kevin, is better than that cliché. And This Is Us is better too.

Sticking him with a storyline in which he plays an actor whose father struggled with addiction and who is now struggling with addiction of his own is a bit too trite. While This Is Us has proven time and again it can take trite and turn it into something beautifully emotive and poignant, this isn't that.

Instead, it feels like they're trying too hard to give Kevin — the sibling who was never taken seriously — something serious to deal with. Kate struggles with her body image, her relationship with Rebecca and daddy issues. Randall has the duality of being an adopted child who recently met his bio dad... who died shortly thereafter. Not to mention Randall's anxiety.

So this addiction arc of Kevin's kind of just feels like a booby prize. I get it... it's a cliché because it happens so often in real life. The sons repeat the sins of their fathers. The actor has a drug problem. But still, does everything have to be quite so... literal?

It would have been enough too much if they'd stopped at that. But the show really piles it on by having Kevin return to his hometown.

More: This Is Us Moments to Rewatch When You Need a Good Cry

He makes all the obligatory stops. He drives by his old house and remembering playing in the yard with his dad. He attends his high school to be honored, where he predictably walks the halls and recalls being a student there.

All of this is interwoven with flashbacks showing Kevin with Jack and Rebecca as if the show is hitting us over the head with a hammer: Kevin was under so much pressure! Kevin couldn't come to terms with his parent's separation or his father's alcoholism! We get it; we get it.

When his high school football coach takes the stage to introduce him, even his speech feels contrived. Even more so, of course, when Kevin imagines it is his father delivering the honor.

"I had the pleasure of coaching Kevin for four, well, three-and-a-half years. And in my career, I never saw a kid with so much natural talent, confidence, charisma... but he caught some tough breaks. Suffered some losses. And that's when he really showed himself to be a star. He fought through the adversity and the heartache, and he found success on another path. He is, for all you kids out there, a living, breathing example of outer and inner strength. This kid is tough as hell."

And there you have it: the standard everyone has been holding Kevin to since he was the first of the Big Three to take steps. That kid is tough as hell. But by the end of Episode 8, Kevin is literally on a lawn sobbing and screaming out in emotional and mental agony.

He goes to Randall's to finally ask for help only to be told Kate lost her baby. And once again, his pain is eclipsed by the people who orbit him.

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This Is Us' popularity is rooted in how life-affirming it is — not because it is always happy, but because it is real. However, that reality is typically nuanced and deep. That's the thing, though... Kevin's demons are already nuanced and deep. He didn't even need the addiction arc for us to believe he would wind up at that specific heartbreaking point, sobbing on a veritable stranger's lawn.

It's not that Hartley doesn't do the addiction arc justice. He plays the hell out of it. But this episode devoted entirely to Kevin proves that the character, like Hartley, is capable of incredible depth. They both deserve more than a cliché.