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SNL: Julia Louis-Dreyfus as a wigged-out housewife made me stand up and cheer

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Amid a series of largely disappointing, half-baked sketches last night, Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Nick Jonas' "Pool Boy" skit stood out as a complex and compelling portrayal of female emotion and vulnerability.

The Pool Boy
Image: SNL

More: Watch this SNL parody of Trump supporters

The sketch began with Louis-Dreyfus emphatically telling the boy who cleans her pool that they have to end their affair. As she explains the complexities of her guilt, love, social responsibilities and dissatisfactions to him, he consistently responds, “OK,” “Oh, cool,” or “My bad,” remaining unaffected as she oscillates between telling him the affair is over and saying she wants to sleep with him again.

The Pool Boy
Image: SNL

While Louis-Dreyfus’ behavior is certainly emotionally charged, the sketch avoids painting her as the hysterical character to which many women are reduced when they express their feelings. Instead, the pool boy comes across as unaware and unintelligent. While she has taken the time to write out her feelings in a letter, he is concerned with a dead squirrel in the pool. When she tells him she couldn't sleep the night before because she was trying to figure out what their relationship meant, he agrees, "Oh, I hate that!"

The Pool Boy
Image: SNL

The sketch complicates typical unsatisfied, villianized suburban housewife characters as Louis-Dreyfus herself asks, "What am I doing? Am I some bored housewife who is having an affair with her 23-year-old pool boy?" Often, such characters are portrayed as emotionally unstable, dependent on men for definition and evil and power-hungry for wanting satisfying sex and love. But, in this episode, it is the pool boy who is the joke, as his cluelessness contrasts starkly with Louis-Dreyfus' complicated personality.

The Pool Boy
Image: SNL

And despite her vulnerability as she speaks to Chad, Louis-Dreyfus exhibits complete control and agency at the end of the skit when she sees (a very buff, attractive, young) Jonas mowing her lawn and says, “I’m gonna f*** that kid.” Ultimately, she is not indecisive or hysterical. She knows what she wants, and she is going to get it.

More: Why viewers were angry about this SNL member's joke

The character fits well with last night's theme of distinctly feminist sketches. There were a few problematic moments in Weekend Update. For example, Colin Jost joked that Bernie Sanders and Donald Trump's wives are polar opposites because one is a supermodel and the other does her husband's taxes, effectively implying that a supermodel couldn't ever know how to do taxes and that a woman who knows how to do taxes could never be a supermodel. There were also a number of jokes made about boyfriends waiting on their girlfriends to finish their makeup, and one joke pointing out that the benefit of being a woman is that men will pay for your drinks at bars.

More: The Mindy Project's complex feminism

Still, sketches like "The One-Dimensional Female Character from a Male-Driven Comedy" were hilarious and, unfortunately, accurate depictions of the reductive way that women are often depicted in television. It was exciting to see Louis-Dreyfus portray the complex character in "The Pool Boy" as a solution to the objectified, simplistic woman that Cecily Strong portrayed — one who is tricked into sneezing into a tissue full of semen, who shuts off when she has spoken too much, and who is clearly paid less than her male counterparts. And sketches like "Meet 'n' Match," where two aliens come to Earth to date and sleep with men in order to reproduce and keep their species alive, also showed us powerful female protagonists on a mission. Ultimately, it was exciting to see the women of SNL challenge sexist television tropes with layers of critique, satire and subversion.


Ranking the many loves of Law & Order: SVU's Olivia Benson

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To say I love the Law & Order franchise would be a huge understatement. As Woody Allen said, "I lurve" it — a lot. I especially love Olivia Benson, portrayed so beautifully on Law & Order: Special Victim's Unit by Mariska Hargitay these past 17 seasons.

More: NCIS: 10 things I want to happen before DiNozzo leaves

I'm not the only one. Throughout the show's extensive run, Benson has had many, many love interests. Although they're rarely part of the main plot, once in a while one sneaks into the story line. At the end of the day, it's quite clear that Benson doesn't need a man. But it's fun to look back on her partners throughout the years, ranked from zero to hero.

10. Erik Weber, Season 12

I hesitate to even put Weber on this list, but he and Benson did share a cup of coffee once. Weber was an artist and hacker who popped up as a suspect in one of the SVU's investigations, only to insert himself into their next one. Not only did he help steer the SVU toward a child rapist but he also actually turned out to be the child rapist. Good thing Benson never fell for his charming shtick.

9. Nick Ganzner, Season 1

Ganzner was a reporter lurking at SVU crime scenes. He begged Benson for a date, but the moment they were out, it was clear he was fishing for more information on her case. The last straw came when he asked Benson to reenact the subway rapes she was investigating. Oh, and did I mention he went through her files while she was in the bathroom? He then used that stolen information for a front-page scoop. Whatta creep!

8. Jeffrey York, Season 5

Benson and York's relationship happened off-camera before the series begins. But we do get to sort of meet York and learn a bit about him. The SVU team arrives at a crime scene only for Benson to recognize the murder victim as her former flame. Throughout the course of the investigation, she learns that York was deep in the closet, having an affair with his male co-worker and was HIV positive. These three things combined throw Benson for quite the loop.

7. Andy Eckerson, Season 5

Once again, Eckerson and Benson's relationship happened off-camera. Eckerson is a United States Marshal and former-NYPD detective. It's clear that Eckerson is an adrenaline junky and that his behavior probably took a toll on anything he and Benson could have. Like she doesn't have enough to deal with at work? In his one episode, Eckerson does try and reignite their spark, but Benson says she really just needs stability outside of work. Ouch.

More: Law & Order: SVU's Olivia Benson has been the strongest woman on TV for 17 years

6. Brian Cassidy, Season 1

Benson and Cassidy's first go-round happens early on in the series' premiere season. It's a one-night stand that leaves Cassidy breathless and Benson berating herself. While Cassidy wants more, Benson doesn't — at least for now. Shortly after their night together, Cassidy transfers out of SVU to the Narcotics Unit, where he remains, as far we as know, until he reappears over 10 years later!

5. Kurt Moss, Season 9

Where did he even come from? Instead of being introduced slowly, we learn from Lieutenant Tucker (another Benson love interest later on) that she's dating an editor at the fictional New York Ledger. Not only that, but they've been dating a while and he's even asked her to move in with him. What? By the end of his one episode, she's broken up with Moss and is drowning her sorrows with Stabler. The universe feels right again.

4. Ed Tucker, Season 17

Throughout SVU's very long run, Lieutenant Ed Tucker has popped in and out as a thorn in the detectives' sides. As part of Internal Affairs, it's Tucker's job to investigate and weed out dirty cops, which obviously puts him on the wrong side of the SVU team. In later seasons, it becomes clear he's sweet on Benson. Throughout Season 17, the SVU writers throw some teasers the viewer's way, but by the time it's revealed Benson and Tucker are indeed dating, Benson seems so happy and at ease, we just sort of forget how jerky Tucker used to be. This relationship is still in progress, so the jury's still out.

3. David Haden, Season 13

Sparks are definitely flying the first time Executive Assistant District Attorney and Benson meet. It doesn't take too long, or too many cases, for them to go for drinks with the relationship going from there. Benson seems happy, like, really, seriously happy. Of course, this is a huge conflict of interest considering Haden is the ADA assigned to SVU. Soon enough, this becomes an issue with one of Benson's old cases being questioned. Haden calls off the relationship before they can get caught and seriously reprimanded. Never one to sit back and mope, Benson is back to beating back the bad guys, reminding us that she's a badass, with or without a man.

2. Brian Cassidy, Season 14-15

Cassidy re-enters the SVU-verse during the Season 13 finale, working undercover for a pimp. There are definitely some bumps in Cassidy and Benson’s relationship road. First he gets shot. Then he gets arrested for raping a prostitute. Then crazed sociopath William Lewis kidnaps Benson. It doesn’t help that her partner, Detective Nick Amaro, really hates Cassidy. Eventually, the duo move in to together, but it’s clear that they want different things and they part amicably at the end of Season 15.

1. Elliot Stabler, Season 1-12  

So maybe this relationship was purely platonic, but no one had Benson’s back and best interests in mind the way Stabler did. Her partner for over 10 years, Stabler was there for Benson through thick and thin, bad and good, and even, her bizarre behavior at times (Anyone else remember when she helped her half-brother jump bail?) The only glaring inconsistency in their relationship is after Stabler resigns from SVU, he doesn’t call or even text Benson after her kidnapping by William Lewis, adoption of Noah or her many SVU promotions. That being said, he still takes the top spot in my book.

More: 11 cult-classic TV shows you can binge-watch right now

There's now a subscription box for sex toys

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Spicy Subscriptions is a new monthly box that brings sex to your doorstep in the form of so-called "spice boxes." The items included with your spice box depend on what you want — there's the Spice Box ($35), the Toy of the Month Box ($25) and the Lube of the Month Box ($10).

More: New sex toy makes long-distance sex a (virtual) reality

Both the Spice Box and the Lube of the Month Box come with one or two "intimate items," two full-sized items and two or three trial-size products. The Toy of the Month Box, on the other hand, comes with a different full-size sex toy.

All three boxes have their place, depending on what you want sexually, but the Toy of the Month Box is the one I'd want landing on my doorstep on a regular basis. Why? It's all about the orgasm, baby.

More: Take your masturbation skill level up a notch tonight

"If you use sex toys, your chances of reaching an orgasm increase dramatically," Stacy Rybchin of My Secret Luxury told SheKnows. About 75 percent of women can't reach orgasm from traditional intercourse — and 50 percent have faked an orgasm at least once.

"Most women need clitoral stimulation to orgasm. That's why sex toys (vibrators especially) are an excellent way to help you climax."

More (real) orgasms for only $10 a month? Well, well worth it.

More: Canada's largest sex toy retailer reveals what we're spending our money on

Adorable old-fashioned baby names you won't hear on the playground

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Vintage baby names are all the rage, and some have really shot up in popularity over the last decade or so. For example, the steadfast, traditional baby name Henry started off the 20th century very strong, garnering a top-20 spot until 1927. Even after it lost its mojo, it remained very highly ranked until the 1950s, when it drifted toward the lower end of the top 100, finally dropping off that mark in 1970. Since 2008, though, it's shot back up in the ranks, topping out as the 33rd most popular baby name in 2014.

More: Magical baby names from Harry Potter

Despite the amazing recent rise in some vintage baby names, including Emma, Amelia, Leo and Ivan, some vintage names haven't really caught on. That's where these gems come in. These baby names may not be rocketing up the popularity charts (yet), but they are still solid choices that will be super-cute for your baby boy or girl.

As a fun note, all of these names come directly from the Social Security Administration's top 1,000 baby names list — from 1880.

MoreMom tries to name baby after poison, judge says no way

Unique old-fashioned names for boys

It's a little more difficult to tease out vintage baby names for boys that are on the unique side — many of today's top choices have been winners for decades. These names, though, are a little bit off the beaten track.

old-fashioned baby names
Image: Terese Condella/SheKnows

MoreThis mom's crazy unique gender reveal will have you 'dyeing'

Unique old-fashioned names for girls

Baby girl names seem to be more sensitive to naming trends than their masculine counterparts, which makes finding old trends a little easier.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below:

Photos to take on baby's first day
Image: Monet Nicole Births

Chrissy Teigen had her baby and the name is out of this world

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Say goodbye to Chrissy Teigen, funniest pregnant woman on Twitter. Say hello to Chrissy Teigen and John Legend, brand new parents. The model, cookbook author and TV show host has revealed she gave birth to their little girl on Thursday ... and somehow managed to keep it all secret for days, up until John spilled the beans on his own Twitter account.

More: This mom's crazy unique gender reveal will have you 'dyeing'

Their other big secret? The baby name, which Teigen shared on Instagram, along with the little girl's stats (6 pounds 11 ounces). Introducing Luna Simone Stephens (Legend's real name is John Stephens).

Chrissy

Chrissy

The couple reportedly asked President Barack Obama for his thoughts on their baby name, and if this is the one he chose, the commander in chief may have a future in baby naming after he leaves office. Not bad, Mr. President! The name is a perfect fit for a singer's daughter.

More: Mom tries to name baby after poison, judge says no way

For starters, say it out loud. Sound familiar? Nina Simone anyone? Pretty darn close.

What's more, Simone is French for heard and Hebrew for loud. And something tells us this little girl is going to be loud and heard a LOT in the Legend/Teigen home in weeks to come. Most babies are.

Luna, meanwhile is — not surprisingly — Latin for the moon. The out-of-this-world moniker was also an alternate name for Artemis, the goddess of — you guessed it — the moon.

Both names are linked with people who are drawn to the arts (ahem, have you looked at her parents?) and enjoy careers in the spotlight. Pretty perfect fit.

More: Badass mom delivers her own baby during C-section in incredible photos

Congrats to Chrissy and John!

What do you think of the name?

Before you go, check out our slideshow below:

Parking lot birth
Image: Paulina Splechta

9 gestures that will make your mom feel extra appreciated on Mother's Day

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Gifts are not the only way to honor Mom on Mother's Day. What she really wants is your time and attention, so take the day to give her the pampering she deserves. Instead of breaking the bank on extravagant presents, use some of these suggestions to spoil her silly.

1. Let her sleep in

How long has it been since Mom slept in? On Mother's Day, start her day off perfectly by making sure she's well-rested for once. Get yourself up early, and do whatever needs to be done to make sure the house stays quiet while she snoozes.

More: Mother's Day gift ideas you haven't thought of yet

2. Give her an at-home spa day

There's no need to book an expensive day at the spa — you can give Mom a spa day without ever leaving home. Set up shop and give her a pedicure, manicure, facial and maybe even a foot massage. She'll feel relaxed and super loved by the time you're done.

3. Clean the house

Mom should never have to clean the house on Mother's Day. Clean every inch of the house from top to bottom, and if it doesn't need to be cleaned on Mother's Day, give her an IOU for the next time it does.

More: Mother's Day crafts for kids

4. Go on a picnic

When lunchtime rolls around, give Mom a chance to get out and enjoy the sunshine. Pack a picnic lunch and this soft Vera Bradley throw blanket, and then let her know the blanket is hers to keep.

5. Take her on an overnight getaway

Plan an overnight or weekend trip, either just for your mom and you or the whole family. But don't tell her where you're going — the surprise is half the fun! Grab everything your mom will need ahead of time, and have it packed and ready to go.

6. Cook a fancy dinner

And we do mean fancy. If you're not much of a chef, pick up her favorite food and serve it immediately so it doesn't get cold or mushy. Break out the fine china, light a few candles, and make her feel like the queen that she is.

More: 12 Mother's Day gifts for crafty moms

7. Spruce up her garden

Give Mom's garden a spring boost by weeding, trimming and getting everything ready for summer. To top it all off, plant a few of her favorite flowers so she'll think of you every time she steps outside.

8. Take a family photo

All moms want family pictures, but getting them taken is easier said than done. Make sure everyone is in one place at the same time, and do what you have to do to get everyone to smile. The photos will be cherished possessions for her for years to come.

9. Have a movie night

Rent a movie mom has been dying to see and prep an assortment of her favorite snacks — then sit with her and watch. Mom will love ending the day curled up with her favorite people while she takes in a good flick.

This post was sponsored by Vera Bradley.

I just discovered the crazy world of erotomania thanks to HBO's Confirmation

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Confirmation tells the true-life story of the Clarence Thomas Supreme Court hearings where Thomas' former employee, Anita Hill, accused him of sexual harassment. But one detail of the hearing has us baffled: Anita Hill was accused of having a psychiatric condition called erotomania. We did a little research on erotomania and discovered it's a real thing. But could Hill have actually had it?

Confirmation
Image: HBO

According to Wikipedia, erotomania is "a type of delusional disorder where the affected person believes that another person is in love with him or her." Erotomania is also said to occur in people with psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.

More: Confirmation: 15 things to know about the Anita Hill & Clarence Thomas cast

Typically, erotomania causes a person to believe they have a secret admirer, usually someone famous or of a higher rank than themselves, like a celebrity.

A person with erotomania thinks a specific person is sending them special glances or telepathic messages to secretly communicate their desire. Sometimes, the person even thinks body posture or the arrangement of objects are signs of the other person's yearning.

The afflicted person returns this perceived attention by sending letters or gifts or making phone calls or visits to the other person. When these efforts are rebuked or ignored, the person with erotomania justifies it by thinking the other person is merely trying to keep the potential romance a secret.

There are a couple of famous cases of erotomania. One is John Hinkley Jr., the man who attempted to assassinate President Ronald Reagan in 1981. Hinkley's erotomania is said to have been focused on actress Jodie Foster. Hinkley became obsessed with Foster after watching the movie Taxi Driver. When Foster attended Yale University, Hinkley moved to New Haven, Connecticut, and stalked her.

Unable to establish any meaningful communication with Foster, Hinkley devised several plans to get her attention, including a plan to assassinate Reagan. Just before the assassination attempt, Hinkley wrote this to Foster:

"Over the past seven months I've left you dozens of poems, letters and love messages in the faint hope that you could develop an interest in me. Although we talked on the phone a couple of times I never had the nerve to simply approach you and introduce myself... The reason I'm going ahead with this attempt now is because I cannot wait any longer to impress you. — John Hinkley, Jr."

More: Dakota Fanning opens up about attitudes toward women in Hollywood

After the assassination attempt, Hinkley was tried for the crime but found not guilty by reason on insanity. Since then, he has spent most of his time in a psychiatric facility but has had supervised visits at his parents' home.

Another famous person said to have erotomania was Margaret Mary Ray, the woman known for stalking both astronaut Story Musgrave and talk show host David Letterman.

Ray was charged with trespassing onto Letterman's property eight times, even stealing his Porsche and claiming to be Letterman's wife. Ray killed herself by kneeling in front of a moving train on October 5, 1998.

Both Hinkley and Ray have a long history of behaviors that characterize their mental illness — unlike Hill, who has lived an incredibly stable and productive life full of awards and achievements for her work as a law professor.

Confirmation
Image: HBO

In the real-life proceedings, psychiatrist Park Dietz suggested to the Judiciary Committee that Hill may have erotmania. Rumors in Hollywood claim that Dietz was the inspiration for Dr. Hannibal Lecter in the Silence of the Lambs books and films. Could this imply that Dietz has a few delusions of this own?

In a 1993 interview with the Los Angeles Times, Dietz discussed his career chasing psychopaths and admitted there was a dark side to his work. "I only recently realized that it all has an effect on me... It gives me an entirely different outlook on humanity, what I expect will happen," Dietz said.

So, the question becomes, is it possible Anita Hill suffered from erotomania? It seems highly unlikely, if not an outright ridiculous and sexist accusation. To us, accusing Hill of having extreme delusional fantasies about Thomas is just another way to dismiss a woman for being too emotional or simply crazy. It is an attempt to damage the reputation and emotional stability of all women. It is also an attempt to protect men and their position of status at any cost.

More: 7 ways Star Wars: The Force Awakens is the most female-driven film of them all

Thank you, HBO, for making Confirmation and exposing more evidence of the "war against women" we are still facing in America today.

Confirmation

Confirmation

Weekly horoscopes: April 18–24

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aries

taures

gemini

cancer

leo

virgo

libra

scorpio

sagittarius

capricorn

aquarius

pisces

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We all get obsessive from time to time. We fixate on something we can't have or try to control someone we don't own. It's fine within reason, but sometimes this dark compulsion can take on a life all its own and that can spell trouble. On April 18, Pluto, the planet of obsession, will turn retrograde. Retrogrades bring reversals, which is why they're often regarded as being treacherous. However retrogrades can also signal a lightening up of energies — a loosening of the hold that the planet had over you. If you feel like you're obsessing about something (or someone) that you can't live without, then this would be a good time to pull the plug. You'll be happier and healthier without it.

ARIES (March 19 - April 18)
Image: SheKnows

It hasn't been easy working with someone you can't stand. Not only do you and he have totally different visions for the project you're working on, but also your personalities couldn't be more opposite. Nevertheless, your commitment to seeing things through has evolved into a begrudging respect for each other over the past couple of weeks. Does this mean that you're growing to like each other? Not really. But it's still nice to know that you are capable of success when you decide to bridge your differences and combine forces. It will also be nice to know that this enforced alliance won't last forever.

Next: Taurus horoscope

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TAURUS (April 19 - May 19)
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You're having a hard time trying to figure out how to get to there from here. There's so much you want to do with your life but you feel held back by responsibilities, obligations and beliefs. Some people would urge you to walk out on these so you can be true to who you are while others say that obligations are the price you pay for the security you enjoy. Pluto's retrograde over the next four months will show you how to get to where you want to go but you may not like the toll you have to pay to travel that road.

Next: Gemini horoscope

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GEMINI (May 20 - June 19)
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Venus, the people magnet planet, will be forming a conjunction to Uranus, the planet of revolution and change on April 22. This is bound to introduce some movers and shakers into your professional orbit while causing some upset and consternation among associates. These are the sorts of controversies that you live for and you'll enjoy mixing it up, however you do want to make sure not to alienate people who have been there for you over the long haul. In fact you might want to take time to reassure them. After all you wouldn't have gotten to where you are now without their support.

Next: Cancer horoscope

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CANCER (June 20 - July 21)
Image: SheKnows

You shouldn't feel bad about negotiating aggressively for what you want. It's not like the person sitting at the opposite end of the table is some shrinking violet. He's playing for keeps, too. But the key to your success doesn't lie in bringing him to heel or converting him to your way of thinking. That's just not going to happen with Venus squaring Pluto this week. The person that you're dealing with is as intractable as they come, so the key lies in finding the right fit. The best compromise is when both parties walk away from the table having lost and gained something.

Next: Leo horoscope

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LEO (July 22 - Aug. 21)
Image: SheKnows

Don't let what's going on in your personal life detract from what's happening professionally. Seldom have you found yourself in a position to take advantage of the offers and opportunities that will be winging their way to you this week. An extraordinary transfer of light occurring between Saturn and Uranus from April 18 to April 22 shows that you will be rubbing shoulders with people who can help take your career to the next level. It may strike you as all talk, but how well you do at the meet and greet paves the way to an amazing coup in August and September.

Next: Virgo horoscope

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VIRGO (Aug. 22 - Sept. 21)
Image: SheKnows

If you're in the final stages of sealing a deal, then make sure to get it all done by April 22 and not a day later. If you're not even close or if you're meeting with unforeseen resistance then stop what you're doing and back off. You don't want to force a fit where there isn't a match. The reason for this warning is that Mercury will be turning retrograde next week. This could introduce some unexpected complications or an even better offer from out of left field. You don't want to expose yourself to any unnecessary risk when your ruling planet changes direction.

Next: Libra horoscope

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LIBRA (Sept. 22 - Oct. 21)
Image: SheKnows

There is a lot of powerful energy coursing through your horoscope right now and it could push you to new heights if you were to work with it intelligently. You are finally coming into your own after years of having to be Ms. Goody Two-Shoes. You're feeling strong, emboldened and like nobody can stop you. This newfound confidence makes you want to give the marching orders instead of take them. Remember that you were born under Venus, the planet of partnerships. You cannot succeed without respecting those who have equal say in your life. Honor that and you can't go wrong.

Next: Scorpio horoscope

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SCORPIO (Oct. 22 - Nov. 20)
Image: SheKnows

Pluto turns retrograde on April 18. This shows you being dragged back into a situation that you swore you would never go near again. This could pertain to a sibling, a close friend or even, strangely enough, a rival. You could be accused of something you didn't do, set up for a situation where you are bound to fail or pressured to disclose information that you are not at liberty to share. Do what you feel in your gut is right. It may mean traveling a hard road for a while, but Pluto, the planet of ordeals, always rewards those who brave its trials.

Next: Sagittarius horoscope

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SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 21 -Dec. 20)
Image: SheKnows

Don't get fixated on the good things other people have, the opportunities that slipped through your fingers or the roads not taken. What's done is done and you should make peace with that. It's never too late to rewrite the life script but that won't happen if you keep poring over the previous drafts. The Venus/Saturn trine on April 18 signals the beginning of a trend when things you believed were lost will be returned to your life. It could begin with an estranged loved one contacting you or a prospective employer touching base after months of silence. You'll want to answer right away obviously.

Next: Capricorn horoscope

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CAPRICORN (Dec. 21 - Jan. 19)
Image: SheKnows

It may feel like it's you alone against the world on April 19 when Venus forms a square to Pluto in Capricorn. This will elicit all of your isolationist tendencies, but the bigger planetary picture shows that nothing could be further from the truth. Not only do you currently enjoy the support of a number of people in your corner both personally and professionally, but it also looks like you're about to be inundated by a wave of new faces from different places. Some of these will be passing acquaintances while others will bring fresh perspectives that will encourage you to blaze exciting paths.

Next: Aquarius horoscope

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AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 - Feb. 17)
Image: SheKnows

The lives of those around you will be turned upside down and even inside out as Venus squares Pluto on April 19 and then conjoins Uranus on April 22. It's important that you provide the calm in their storm as loved ones and friends will find themselves at loose ends. There are times when everyone undergoes their life crises collectively and this is one of them. Ironically this will also flush out the identity of that person who was causing you so much behind-the-scenes trouble weeks ago. You won't be able to act on this information now, but you will eventually, so hold tight.

Next: Pisces horoscope

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PISCES (Feb. 18 - March 18)
Image: SheKnows

There's a difference between looking and finding, and on April 18 you'll discover that many of the things that can make you happy are readily at hand. You are undergoing a transfer of cosmic energies that are moving your hopes and dreams off of the shelf and into your shopping cart. If you can't see it for yourself then ask your friends because they'll be more than happy to walk you through it. It's rare when you've felt so attuned to who you are and what you're about. You won't jinx your good fortune by celebrating it. If anything you'll increase it.

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Love horoscopes: April 18 – April 24


Weekly love horoscopes: April 18 – April 24

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aries

taures

gemini

cancer

leo

virgo

libra

scorpio

sagittarius

capricorn

aquarius

pisces

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ARIES (March 19 - April 18)
Image: SheKnows

It will feel like you've been hit by a bolt out of the blue when Venus conjoins Uranus in Aries on April 22. Uranus is the planet of revolution and change in astrology, but it's also the planet of revelations and epiphanies, so get ready for the clouds to part as you finally see what's going on in your love life. You could walk out on a longstanding relationship, throw yourself into the arms of a complete stranger or change sex preferences. Stranger things have been known to happen. In any case, you'll really enjoy this new road that you'll be traveling.

Next: Taurus horoscope

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TAURUS (April 19 - May 19)
Image: SheKnows

There appears to be a certain person that you can't do right by no matter how hard you try. Usually this wouldn't bother you except that she's related to your boyfriend, is tight with your supervisor at work or is friends with your best friend. In any case, you may be surprised to see a total sea change in your association this week. It will start with her actually acknowledging your presence (instead of greeting you with her typical icy glance) and this could even evolve into an invitation to hang out together. Who knows? You may be looking at a new BFF.

Next: Gemini horoscope

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GEMINI (May 20 - June 19)
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You can't force him to make the decision you want him to make. Yes, it's true that he would be happier with you than he would be with her, but if he can't see that for himself now, then he never will. Saturn in your solar house of relationships hasn't been easy. You've been faced with more dilemmas, predicaments and disappointments than you can count, but if there's one thing that Saturn's made clear it's that the things you used to do to make love work just won't cut it anymore — and that includes wrestling men free from the tentacles of their life-sucking girlfriends.

Next: Cancer horoscope

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CANCER (June 20 - July 21)
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Pluto's retrograde this week will leave you feeling all dressed up with no place to go. The serial cancellations, cobbled excuses and empty promises to be a better boyfriend are all adding up to this final no-show. How many times are you supposed to put up with this? You've done everything you can to make this relationship work and now it's time to walk away. Take satisfaction in the knowledge that this guy will regret having strung you along. It may take as long as September for the penny to drop, but it will, and when it lands it will be with a very loud clank.

Next: Leo horoscope

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LEO (July 22 - Aug. 21)
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This is a heavy time for you so take each day as it comes and try not to globalize. The full moon on April 21 will hit you with an intense bout of "man who got away blues," regrets for missed opportunities or empty nest syndrome. It could leave you feeling self-critical and darkly judgmental. You may not be able to outrun this melancholia, but you don't have to surrender to it either. Reach out to loved ones and friends. They'll rekindle flagging spirits by getting you to live in the here and now and showing you that the best is yet to come.

Next: Virgo horoscope

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VIRGO (Aug. 22 - Sept. 21)
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Most women have a hard time being buddies with a man, but you don't share that problem. Guys tend to see you as their confidante — someone they can talk to about their hopes and dreams, their worries and their apprehensions. It's a great rapport to have, but the downside to this is that you can wind up being treated like a beloved sister instead of a romantic interest. That said, you might be in for a surprise on April 19 when someone you never imagined harbored special feelings for you shows that he actually does. This unexpected twist will take some getting used to.

Next: Libra horoscope

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LIBRA (Sept. 22 - Oct. 21)
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Be forewarned that this could be one of the more difficult weeks of the year for you. Your ruling planet Venus is traveling through an extremely rough patch of sky so you can expect to find yourself on the wrong side of an argument, dispute or struggle involving loved ones. Even if you're right, they will still perceive you as being in the wrong. Given the incendiary tempers surrounding you, it might be a good idea to apply the Emily Post rule most often invoked at dinner parties — avoid discussing politics and religion and stick to the weather.

Next: Scorpio horoscope

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SCORPIO (Oct. 22 - Nov. 20)
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Events surrounding the full moon on April 21 could leave you reeling. It's rare for a Scorpio to be caught off guard because you can usually see things coming. You're one of the few people who really do have eyes in the back of her head. Nevertheless, a family member's meltdown will unnerve you and leave you asking what you did wrong. Short answer? Nothing. You have been there for this person to the best of your ability and that is better than most. Let the heated words go in one ear and out the other. This person will thank you for it later.

Next: Sagittarius horoscope

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SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 21 -Dec. 20)
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"Anywhere but here" is the Sagittarian motto. Born with an explorer's heart and an adventurer's soul it's hard for you to stay put. You're convinced that the life you're supposed to be living is taking place someplace else. This is fine for traveling to destinations unknown and acquiring frequent flyer miles, but it can be hell on a relationship because you'll always feel like you can do better. Maybe you can. Maybe you can't. But the Venus/Saturn trine on April 18 shows that there's someone who's within stone's throw who could really rock your world if you would only give him half a chance.

Next: Capricorn horoscope

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CAPRICORN (Dec. 21 - Jan. 19)
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It isn't easy stepping back and letting loved ones make their own mistakes. It goes against your good sense, better judgment and naturally protective instincts. You don't want to see someone you care about to fail or get hurt. Nevertheless experience is the best teacher and there's no way that this person is going to learn without suffering. Remember that scraped knees get better, bruised egos heal, and broken hearts grow stronger. Be a hovering yet benevolent presence and your loved one will thank you one day for having the presence of mind to step out of the way and the generosity of spirit to allow rather than forbid.

Next: Aquarius horoscope

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AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 - Feb. 17)
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On April 19 the sun moves into that part of your solar chart that pertains to hearth and home. This signals that you need to spend more time here than there. Loved ones have been supportive while work has absorbed just about all of your attention, but you're getting dangerously close to becoming overdrawn at the goodwill bank. You've issued a lot of rain checks lately and they're on the verge of bouncing. Answer? Make more time for them over the next four weeks. They'll appreciate that you care and you'll appreciate reconnecting to the reasons why you work as hard as you do.

Next: Pisces horoscope

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PISCES (Feb. 18 - March 18)
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There's a lot of searching but not a lot of discovering when it comes to matters of the heart. This is exacerbated by your tendency to fall for bad boy types who walk all over you instead of dating nice guys who you know will love and support you. Thankfully the Venus/Saturn trine on April 18 will wake you up to the fact that the fellow you're seeing is actually a pretty good catch. You will always have a soft spot for the guys who break your heart but it doesn't mean you have to spend the rest of your life crying over them.

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14 unconventional ways being a mom is totally worth it

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If you're part of the motherhood, you undoubtedly know as well as I do that there are a million and a half moving reasons being a mom is worth it.

No matter how hard ('cause let's face it, it can be) it gets or how tired you are, having your child wrap their arms tightly around your neck and tell you they love you can make all the world seem right.

More: Just one sentence changed everything I did as a mom

But there are also some fringe benefits to being a mom that we don't talk about nearly as much, and they deserve due credit as well. Here are 14 totally relevant — albeit slightly less conventional — ways being a mom is worth it.

1. You're not afraid of the hard questions

You've become alarmingly good at telling the difference between chocolate and... not chocolate. It's like a parenting party trick.

Parenting

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2. At this point, you're indestructable

If you're ever chosen for the Hunger Games, you can be 97 percent certain you'll survive. If you can make it through the terrible twos, you can make it through a round at the Capitol.

Parenting

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More: 10 famous movie lines that get a lot funnier when you have kids

3. The junk food

You have a legitimate reason to eat Goldfish crackers for life at least a few more decades.

Parenting

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4. You're basically a ninja

Sneaking out of your kid's room at night — or escaping the vice grip of their sleeping arms — without waking them has catapulted your stealth skills to ninja level.

Parenting
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5. You have fall guys

There's always someone other than the dog to blame funny smells on.

Parenting
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6. You're an early bird... like it or not

Because living with tiny human alarm clocks means you'll never miss another morning appointment. Ever.

Parenting
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7. You're a winner

There's always someone around you can beat at board games.

Parenting
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8. Nothing can take you down

By the time your kids make it through elementary school, your immune system is so strong you are basically the bionic woman.

Parenting
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9. You know when to keep your cool

Knowing you are responsible for molding the lives of the little people in the back seat keeps you from (totally) losing it during traffic jams.

Parenting
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More: I felt useless as a mom after breaking my leg

10. You get things done

Learning to accomplish things in the micro-slivers of time between feedings and changings and shuttling kids all over the planet has turned you into a seriously efficient human being.

Parenting
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11. The coffee, duh

No one is crazy enough to tell a mom she can't have that third venti iced caramel macchiato.

Parenting
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12. You always have en excuse to shop

You get to live vicariously through your kids' wardrobe. When else can you buy tutus and frilly socks with reckless abandon?

Parenting
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13. Play dates aren't just for kids

You get to have play dates. 'Cause, real talk, getting together with your kid's friends' mamas is just as important to you as chilling in the sandbox with their pint-sized posse is to them.

Parenting
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14. The wine

Because, bedtime.

Parenting

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This post was sponsored by JCPenney.

This beautiful wedding dress isn't a wedding dress at all

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That creation was incredible, but a new cake featured at Cake International London 2016 absolutely blows it out of the water.

More: California man gets stuck on a cliff after proposing to his girlfriend

Just take a look at this dress — pretty beautiful, right? Don't get your hopes up, though, because it's actually all cake.

weddible dress

weddible dress

Sylvia Elba, a multi-award winning cake sculptor, was tasked with creating the "Weddible Dress," according to a post on Cake International's Facebook page.

"She was asked to produce an exhibit based purely on wafer paper to showcase how versatile it can be" and partnered with "Yvette Marner, a multi-award winning cake sculptor and founder of Fun N Funky Cakes; and Ilinka Rnic, who has an Art, Design and Photography background and is also multi-award winning cake designer," the post said.

More: Woman hears for the first time and her boyfriend immediately proposes

The life-size dress was made with approximately 77 pounds of fondant, 7 pounds of cake lace, 10 bottles of Fabriliquid and thousands of sheets of wafer paper — all packed into a form that measures in at 47 inches tall and 87 inches around.

"The Weddible Dress" was featured in an exhibit at the festival over the weekend, but our question: When is it going to be cut up? Let's hope they preserve it, because that's a whole lot of work for something that'll just end up in people's stomachs anyway.

More: Couple celebrates wedding by taking photos at KFC

Super simple makeup hack uses something you already have at home

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That tool? Tape. Yep, plain ol' invisible tape, used to wrap presents and secure pieces of paper together, is being used as a hack by enterprising Instagrammers to get the perfect winged eyeliner, contour and eyebrows.

More: MAC will launch a Selena Quintanilla-inspired makeup collection this fall

Now we can add lips to the list of tape hacks.

Basically, adding tape around your lip line makes it virtually impossible to mess up your lipstick application — perfect for those of us who never mastered that whole "color inside the lines" thing in grade school.

More: Beauty vlogger makes strong case for shaving your face

And yes, it's absolutely as easy as it seems. Beauty vlogger OliveSkinBeauty recently posted a simple video showing her technique.

tape hack 1

tape hack 1

As did vlogger she_slays_beauty, who perfectly applied a demi-matte red lip color with tape.

tape hack 2

tape hack 2

But if you're more interested in using tape for other things, beauty vlogger AlexandrasGirlyTalk posted a super helpful instructional video last year that gives step-by-step tips on various tape hacks.

tape beauty hacks

tape beauty hacks

More: Katy Perry adds beauty mogul to her résumé with new CoverGirl line

The best part? Tape is like $2, so you can use the money you saved to buy more makeup.

When is Once Upon a Time's Mulan going to catch a freakin' break?

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After a lot of teases from the creators about an LGBT relationship happening in Season 5 of Once Upon a Time, it finally happened — although it's not the one most fans wanted or expected.

More: Once Upon a Time: Wait, is [spoiler] really dead?

Last Sunday's episode brought Ruby back into the picture, which ended up bringing both Mulan and Dorothy into the storyline during this Sunday's episode. Obviously, fans assumed Mulan and Ruby (aka "Mulan Rouge") would eventually happen and find their happy endings with one another.

Surprise! That's definitely not the case, because as of right now, Dorothy and Ruby are a thing. That's right: Dorothy and Ruby are in love. Firstly, let me just say that I'm happy they are happy. Secondly, I'm thrilled that an LGBT relationship is finally happening on OUAT, because it is long overdue.

However, it's kind of disappointing to see Mulan left on her own once again. Seriously, when is she going to catch a break in the love department? It's about time she's found her happy ending, too. After moving on from Aurora, I'm pretty sure I can speak for all OUAT fans and say that we all thought she would end up with Ruby, right?

More: Once Upon a Time: Will Zelena and Hades become the next power couple?

Ruby and Mulan

Ruby and Mulan

Ruby and Mulan #2

Ruby and Mulan #2

Ruby and Mulan #3

Ruby and Mulan #3

Ruby and Mulan #4

Ruby and Mulan #4

Ruby and Mulan #5

Ruby and Mulan #5

Of course, Mulan rooted for Ruby and Dorothy, because she's become close with Ruby and wants her friend to be happy. After Ruby said to Mulan about realizing her feelings for Dorothy, "I think that I’ve been looking for someone like her. I know we just met, but I’ve never felt like this about anyone before," Mulan couldn't have been more excited for her and even pushed her to follow her heart, unlike she herself did when it came to Aurora.

It's kind of heartbreaking to see Mulan's happiness for Ruby and Dorothy, especially when most viewers thought Mulan Rouge would happen sooner rather than later. Granted, I dig Dorothy and think she's a badass, just like Mulan and Ruby. So, if Ruby and Dorothy need to happen in order for Mulan and Aurora to end up together, then I'll feel better about all of this.

Clearly, Dorothy and Ruby are meant to be. I mean, Ruby's kiss did wake up Dorothy from Zelena's sleeping curse. There's no getting around true love's kiss.

Whatever the case, I'm all for love and happiness on OUAT no matter who it's between. Let's just hope Mulan will find it, stat.

Once Upon a Time airs Sundays at 8/7c on ABC.

More: Once Upon a Time's Zelena may be the key to defeating Hades

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

OUAT Dark One slideshow
Image: Graphics provided by SheKnows; photos provided by ABC

Diane Kruger & Norman Reedus talk about sex (scenes), baby

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Diane Kruger and boyfriend Joshua Jackson may both star in the new film Sky, but they don't play a couple. The Walking Dead's Norman Reedus plays Kruger's love interest in the movie.

Kruger and Jackson are both actors, so they know that love scenes come with the job. However, here's where things get awkward: Kruger and Reedus were reportedly spotted making out in a bar a few months ago, causing affair rumors to start swirling.

More: Diane Kruger reportedly cheated on Joshua Jackson with a The Walking Dead star

At the time of the alleged affair, Jackson, who Kruger's been dating since 2006, was on a round-the-world trip. Reps for both Kruger and Reedus have denied that the pair were hooking up. Since Jackson came home, he and Kruger have been seen together.

Now, co-stars Kruger and Reedus are promoting Sky. Kruger opened up about Reedus at the film's premiere in New York City.

"I didn't know [Reedus] before the film," Kruger told People. "We share a lot of intimate scenes. I was really nervous about meeting him and not being able to have a drink with him or talk with him."

More: Joshua Jackson's dad oddly addresses Diane Kruger, Norman Reedus "affair"

Since all three actors star in Sky, we have to wonder: Was Kruger's boyfriend Jackson on set while she filmed her sex scenes with Reedus?

Kruger assured People he was not around, saying, "I would not recommend having your better half on set when you have to [film it]."

As far as Kruger's relationship with Reedus, she said she was "pleasantly surprised" with him and that he's nothing like the "dude" characters he usually plays.

"He's so relaxed. He's really easygoing, very gentle," Kruger said.

Reedus apparently feels the same way about Kruger, saying, "She's a dream."

More: Joshua Jackson explains why he won't marry Diane Kruger

Jackson is no stranger to shooting love scenes, either. The Affair actor revealed on The Ellen DeGeneres Show last year that he and Kruger do not watch his sex scenes together.

"That's what I do for a living," he told DeGeneres. "Then I go home and I'm like, 'Oh, babe, I had a great day today. I had sex with two different women, and I felt like it went really well!'" Jackson joked.

In a perfect world, here's what my ultimate Mother's Day would look like

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On Mother's Day a few years ago, my wonderful husband, consumed with stress over what to get me for Mother's Day, decided instead of getting me a present that would disappoint me he would get me nothing at all. It's the kind of reasoning that only someone in the heat of Mother's-Day-present-buying-despair would use.

And it's bad.

So this year I am plotting out, step by step, what my perfect Mother's Day would be like. From wake up to bedtime, to wake up again for snacks, to bed one more time, this mama is getting herself an awesome Mother's Day.

More: For Mother's Day, moms confess to their own moms

1. Don't wake me up before you go-go

My eyelids should not be moved to the full and upright position any time before 8 a.m. Now, 8 a.m. is not a suggestion, it is a no-nonsense minimum. In fact, if we could push that to 10 I'd be a blissed-out camper. Also, please know that letting me "sleep in" while still allowing the children to come and talk to me about what they want for breakfast or what their 10 favorite Minecraft characters are does not count as sleeping in. Those children should think I'm in another country until lunchtime.

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2. Breakfast is time for coffees and nom-noms

I'm going to need at least four lattes in the first five minutes. Let's follow that up with waffles or French toast or pie or something like that. Mother's Day is a day for eating all the things that we can't eat every day but deserve to because we're mothers, damn it. But seriously — coffee.

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3. Morning activity

Nothing. I'm either going back to bed and taking a post-waffle-pie (waffle pies are not a thing yet, but they will be this Mother's Day, right, honey?) nap or I'll be going back to bed to read a book. But I won't be vertical, that's for dang sure.

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More: These Mother's Day gifts will make her smile

4. Let's do lunch, sweet-style

A box of chocolates will do nicely, thank you very much. Celebrate me! It's Mother's Day!

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5. Afternoon activity

See the morning activity, but replace "waffle pie" with "chocolate-covered caramel clusters."

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6. A homemade... I mean, home-served dinner

It would be really sweet if the kids made me dinner. And then my husband can eat it while I dine on curry from my favorite Thai restaurant because Mama does not eat mac and cheese and boiled bananas on Mother's Day.

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7. Evening activity

This is when the slideshow that my husband will have been working on for months happens. I expect photos of me (looking good — eyes open, from my good side, and looking approximately 20 pounds lighter) will be interspersed with quotes about what a good mother I am. Maybe something like this one from Abraham Lincoln: "All that I am or hope to be, I owe to my angel mother." Yeah, that one would work.

More: Not your mama's Mother's Day cocktails

via GIPHY

8. Mama gets the big bed

After a day like this one, I am sure to go to bed with a smile on my face. There will be nice, clean, soft sheets on the bed and I will sleep alone because my husband will happily take the couch so that I can sprawl all over the bed like the queen that I am.

via GIPHY

Happy Mother's Day, everyone!

This post was sponsored by JCPenney.


Fear the Walking Dead: Wait, is Nick the moral compass on this show?

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We're now two weeks into the second season of Fear the Walking Dead, and things are starting to pick up a bit of steam — tonight, the Manawa/Clark clan and their now-seafaring cohorts came across other people. New people. That's progress.

More: Fear the Walking Dead: I totally see Strand's POV, and it makes me feel weird

But it was in watching tonight's episode, "We All Fall Down," that I found myself trying to pinpoint exactly why I'm having such a hard time grabbing hold of this series.

I'm clearly a huge fan of The Walking Dead, and I'd like to think my issues with Fear the Walking Dead have to do with more than the fact it isn't quite as gory-slash-exciting as its Atlanta-based counterpart. I'm a writer, after all... I've got nothing against character development and slow-burning plot.

So I started to analyze the characters in relation to this week's events as they unfolded.

Our survivors are on the high seas off the California coast when they decide to try to anchor at Catrina Island for the night in hopes of finding some useful items at the ranger station. On the way in, they had seen the lights turn on in a house on the island and, once there, they soon meet the family living in the house — husband and wife, George and Melissa, and their kids Harry, Willa and Seth.

Madison believes the flicker of the lights they'd seen before was a signal from Melissa, who quickly explains it away as an accident. No one seems to be buying this, though, the least of all Madison. She presses on in pursuit of more information.

Interestingly, the family are survivalists. They've actually been preparing for the end of the world for years by sustaining themselves with a garden, supplies and water. They've built a fence to keep the swimming walkers — the floaters? — from crawling out of the ocean and onto their property.

They believe they can get through anything together, which is kind of a stark contrast to the dysfunctional Manawa/Clark fam.

George ends up being a morose but fascinating character who seems convinced the zombie apocalypse is kind of like the great flood — here to wipe away the ills of humanity and start fresh. We soon learn through his little boy, Harry, that George plans to give his family "power pills" so they can always be together. These are filled with poison, ICYMI.

Long story short, the little girl, Willa, eats her power pill prematurely, turns into a walker and has her mom's jugular for lunch. Before this gruesome scene unfolded, Madison was intent on taking the kids aboard the Abigail — to save them, I guess?

Ultimately, they wind up watching the eldest son, Seth, shoot his own walkerized mom on the dock as little Harry stood behind him.

More: Fear the Walking Dead: What you need to know about wayward son, Nick

And then it struck me: This show has no clearly discernible moral compass. Or, at the very least, no one who is fighting for the greater good.

In the series premiere, it kind of seemed like that person was going to be Travis. He seemed to hold out hope the longest that this was all some big misunderstanding and everyone would eventually just snap out of it.

Then it seemed for a hot minute like it was going to be Madison. Admittedly, she still has her moments (although they all seem ill-informed, like taking two kids from their parents to go on a boat destined for nowhere).

Daniel is one meltdown away from becoming this show's Negan. His daughter, Ofelia, is so pissed at him right now, she has blinders on the rest of humanity. Alicia and Chris both have too much teen angst to pull it off, and Strand is too cynical and pragmatic to even be in the running — which leaves Nick.

Last season, I felt sure Nick would quickly become for Fear the Walking Dead what Rick is for The Walking Dead. Sure, he's young, addicted to drugs and has questionable personal hygiene habits, but the show really played him up like he was going to be the guy to have a dramatic epiphany and get his shit together.

Now, I'm not so sure that will ever happen — or if he'll ever wash his hair. Mysteries abound, I tell you.

But if Nick isn't the moral compass of this series, who is? And is that why I can't seem to get behind the show? In the immortal words of circa-80s-and-90s hair band Poison, "Give me something to believe in."

I'm a little annoyed that Nick hasn't gotten some better characterization so far, as his arc started off so promising. Remember that whole scene with his girlfriend in the old church? Him running dramatically into the streets to kick off this whole west coast zombpocalypse?

More: Fear the Walking Dead theories: When and how each major character will die

Tonight's episode did little for him other than hint at his one-dimensionality — he found the "power pills" presumably because he's a junkie who was hoping to score a fix.

I'm trying to give the series a fighting chance here and, given that it was just renewed for a third season, it still has plenty of time to prove to me that the characters are worth believing in. As of yet, though, I remain dubious.

What do you think? Will Nick be Fear's anchor, or will another character be the moral compass?

Quantico: Miranda's speech to Parrish finally made the show worth watching

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Oh, Quantico... you know how to make a feminist swoon!

All season long we've been watching as FBI trainee Alex Parrish tackled mental and physical challenges on her way to becoming an agent. We've also seen her tackle more than one of her fellow recruits (plus one of her teachers) between the sheets — which could be seen as a move by a sexually confident and empowered woman, if it weren't for the fact that lately she's been letting her feelings get the better of her, making her come off as petty and weak.

More: Quantico: At this point, I think all the recruits are terrorists

But tonight Agent Parrish had a little 'Come to Jesus' moment, courtesy of the Executive Director of the FBI Academy, Miranda Shaw.

And it was beautiful.

It started with Miranda complimenting Parrish's tenacity.

"You asked tough questions. You demanded answers," said a visibly emotional Shaw. "You fought for the truth. You don't quit. And that will take you far. But it will also get you in trouble."

More: SNL: Julia Louis-Dreyfus as a wigged-out housewife made me stand up and cheer

Shaw's stating the obvious there — not only does this side of Parrish's personality get her in trouble during her time at the academy, but it's getting her in trouble in the present day timeline as well. Tonight's episode saw Parrish spinning her wheels in an attempt to find out why Shelby was driving the terrorist SUV last week... rented by Caleb Haas' alter ego.

Because of course Caleb is involved! In addition to lots of steamy make-out scenes, this show is chock-full of twists and turns, and Caleb is ripe for twisting... at the end of the episode, we don't know if he's really a heroin addict like he tells Parrish he is, or if he's working for his mother — or if he's actually the terrorist!

But Caleb's inconsistency pairs nicely with Shaw's motivational speech to Parrish, because it is all about the FBI's sexist double standards.

"They favor men for promotions," said Shaw, "They protect them from punishment. No matter their weaknesses, no matter what they do."

The statement is particularly powerful considering Caleb has been given multiple second chances, despite making some major mistakes. And, as far as Shaw's career goes, her skeezy counterpart, Liam O'Connor, is about to take over her job.

More: The Blacklist: I'm calling BS — there's no way [spoiler] is really dead

"The FBI is still a man's world," Shaw continued. "And in a man's world, men get a way with murder. It's too late for me, but it's not for you."

Maybe Parrish will remember this speech in the current timeline, because present day Parrish is spinning out of control. She'll need to pull herself together and start making better decisions if she's going to do what Miranda wants her to do (which is something all of the women in her program should be aiming for) — shatter the glass ceiling.

Now, if only the show could work a little harder at making Parrish less boy crazy and hand her the hammer so she can break some glass!

The Family's seriousness may be its fatal flaw

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While I've been rooting for The Family since it first premiered on ABC, I also understand why viewers are jumping ship.

More: How The Family does female characters right

The show doesn't have any humor. At all. The characters don't even smile. Like, literally, I don't think I can remember any one of them actually having a joyous moment — unless it's ironic somehow.

And, as if the characters aren't enough to get you feeling blue, the subject of the show is heavy. Heavy and dark. You're talking about a mother who is pretending her dead son is alive for the sake of her political career while, on the other hand, you have a psycho child kidnapper staying one step ahead of the cops, and a pedophile who just wants redemption. It is messed up and makes me think in circles about right and wrong. It's brilliant writing and spot-on acting but definitely not for the faint of heart.

More: Why ABC definitely shouldn't cancel The Family

Personally, I can get into a good dark show. And I've really enjoyed The Family. But I'm a single, 20-something who can sip on some pinot while I reflect on the meaning of life. For most of America, they're settling down on a Sunday night with their family. Sunday nights are the time for shows like fellow ABC series Once Upon a Time, where quests for justice are family-friendly fun. Or Quantico, where the action and mystery are peppered in with romance and spicy character dynamics.

So, while I definitely think there is a place for shows without any laughs, like The Family, I don't think Sunday nights on ABC are the way to go. This show would probably do great on FX or AMC. Put it on a Wednesday night, add in a character who can lighten the mood every once in a while, and now you're cooking.

More: The Family: Who's evil and who's just misunderstood?

Unfortunately, the recipe ABC has with The Family right now is going bad real quick, and I fear the series won't get its chance to shine into Season 2.

Do you think The Family's fatal flaw is its lack of humor or is there something else missing from this ABC drama?

John Oliver leads the fight over lead poisoning on Last Week Tonight

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Lead poisoning has been big news for decades now. But the issue is on the forefront of many people's minds after water in Flint, Michigan was recently discovered to contain dangerous levels of lead after the city stopped sourcing its water from Lake Huron and began sourcing it from the Flint River in 2013. John Oliver tackled the crisis on Last Week Tonight, focusing much of his segment on how the state knew about the issue and chose to do nothing, as well as the devastating fact that 9,000 children have since been exposed to lead.

Here are some of Oliver's most notable remarks and eye-opening facts from the segment.

1. Showing a photo of elected leaders, literally, toasting what they considered a cost-saving victory after the Flint water switch, Oliver noted that what they really should have been saying while patting each other on the back was, "I’ll see you in hell." Following the crisis, every politician (of course) jumped on board the "America shouldn't be poisoning its children because this isn't a third world country where that sort of thing happens" bandwagon, to which Oliver replied, "There’s only one poison thousands of Americans should consume and that’s Mountain Dew Code Red."

More: Flint water crisis puts moms in an impossible position

2. The problem isn’t just in Flint, Oliver reminds us. Almost 2,000 additional water systems affecting 50 states have been found to contain traces of lead. And we can’t rip out every lead pipe in the country — there are far too many out there and we don’t know where they all are.

Furthermore: "Even if we do replace all lead pipes that still wouldn’t come close to stopping lead poisoning," Oliver said. Why is that? Well, according to the CDC, the biggest threat of lead poisoning to children comes from ingesting lead paint dust — 535,000 children aged 1 to 5 years have elevated lead blood levels.

3. After calling the poisoning of children a "big, f***ing deal," Oliver offered a light moment. "There is no safe level of lead," he said. "It’s one of those things that’s so dangerous you shouldn’t even let a little bit inside of you... like heroin or Jeremy Piven."

4. Who knew? Sesame Street has always been ahead of its time — 20 years ago, the show's most famous cast of characters got together to warn children about washing their hands and staying away from peeling paint in their house so they would lessen their risk of ingesting lead:

Sesame Street lead paint

Sesame Street lead paint

More: John Oliver is mad as hell at credit reports

5. The cost of getting rid of/maintaining lead is shockingly high — $16.6 billion per year every year from 2001 to 2010. After the Flint crisis, it was determined that the estimated cost to replace all lead pipes in the U.S. would be $300 billion.

6. Thank HBO for yet another awesome Oliver/Sesame Street collaboration. The host asked Elmo, Rosita and Oscar the Grouch for assistance in explaining to the world why it's so important that we take care of each other and why so many innocent children deserve to have clean drinking water.

"A lot of places still contain lead paint," Oliver explained to Elmo and Rosita. "We need to care more than we currently do so that we spend enough money to contain it." Always the gentleman, Elmo immediately offered up the $1 bill in his piggy bank before delivering these words of wisdom: "Just because something’s hard doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try."

Let's hope those in power choose to listen to Elmo because a lot of them could use a Muppet's advice right about now.

So-called clues to Jill Duggar's rumored pregnancy are a huge stretch

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Derick Dillard's recent Instagram post got fans chattering about the possibility that Jill Duggar is not just pregnant again, but this time with twins — and people are really grasping for straws on this one.

Dillard and Duggar are enjoying the first years of their marriage and the life of their son Israel in Latin America performing church duties, and rumors of a second pregnancy have followed the couple for months. This latest round is nothing new, although it does seem like fans are really grasping at straws this time.

More: Jill Duggar's family worries for her safety in new trailer for Jill & Jessa: Counting On

Dillard posted a photo of Israel admiring himself in a mirror, and it set Instagram ablaze.

Israel Dillard at mirror

Israel Dillard at mirror

"This is how you entertain yourself when you don't have any siblings yet... #mirrorbaby #twins?" he wrote.

More: Jill and Jessa Duggar featured on kinky, NSFW site

Fans quickly dissected Dillard's word choices to fit their wild pregnancy theories, honing in specifically on the word "yet" and the hashtag #twins.

"She's pregnant with twins," user mtkarenp commented, getting right to the point. "On her blog she said she's pregnant with twin girls." (That's not true, by the way — the Dillards' blog says no such thing, nor does the Duggar family blog.)

"Is Jill pregnant?" wrote kayladuck4.

"YET?? IS OIR JILL PREGNANT," wrote ashley_priv.

"WHAT DO THEY MEAN BY YET AHHH IS JILL PREGNAT," wrote page_makenzie.

"This is a hint lol," wrote brittanyyjo89.

"Jill's pregnant…" wrote literally_em_.

Several other photos were posted that got fans talking, too — like this one of Dillard painting Duggar's toenails for her.

Derick Dillard paints Jill Duggar's toes

Derick Dillard paints Jill Duggar's toes

"My hubby painted my nails yesterday! He is the sweetest! @derickdillard I *heart* you!" Duggar wrote.

More: Another Duggar faces a serious lawsuit, but this time it isn't Josh

And this one, of Dillard bringing Duggar breakfast in bed.

Jill Duggar breakfast in bed

Jill Duggar breakfast in bed

"My sweet hubby @derickdillard brought me breakfast in bed. He's the 'bestest'!" Duggar wrote.

OK, let's simmer down for a hot minute, folks. Pretty sure, in the first photo, "yet" simply means that the couple hopes to have more children in the future — not necessarily like tomorrow — and the #twins hashtag is simply a reference to Israel's own adorable reflection in the mirror. The other two are simply examples of Dillard being sweet to his wife. The Duggars are one family that does not need any encouragement to procreate; they seem to do that just fine on their own.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

Duggars dating slideshow
Image: TLC courtesy of Jim Bob Duggar
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