Hayden Panettiere denied rumors that she had split from fiancé Wladimir Klitschko on Thursday, July 7. Rumors began swirling that she and Klitschko were no longer together after Panettiere was photographed in New York City without her engagement ring, causing some to suspect the two, who share 19-month-old daughter Kaya, were over for good.

More: If you're speculating on Hayden Panettiere's love life, you're not really a fan

“Missing rings don’t mean the end of relationships,” Panettiere wrote on Twitter after the photos went public. “Blessed to be with my beautiful family [emoji of hands praying],” she added along with a sweet family photo of her, Klitschko and their daughter.

The tweet seems to put to any reports of a split to bed. It’s clear that Panettiere and Klitschko remain devoted parents to their daughter. However, those who might want to read into Panettiere’s tweet might interpret “the end of relationships” to mean their relationship as parents, not as an engaged couple. It’s possible that their engagement has been called off. It’s also possible that Panettiere just didn’t feel like wearing her ring that day. (The girl was dressed in a blue flannel, leggings and Uggs after all — doesn't exactly pair well with a diamond.) 

More: Does Hayden Panettiere's confirmed Nashville return mean Juliette is alive?

Regardless of the status of Klitschko and Panettiere’s engagement, it’s nice to see Panettiere looking so happy. After publicly checking herself into treatment last October for postpartum depression, Panettiere announced that she would be taking time to focus on herself again in May. “The postpartum depression I have been experiencing has impacted every aspect of my life. Rather than stay stuck due to unhealthy coping mechanisms I have chosen to take time to reflect holistically on my health and life. Wish me luck!” she tweeted on May 12.

The photos of Panettiere sans engagement ring depicted the first time she had been spotted in NYC since then, which explains the tabloid frenzy and obsession with her romantic life. More important than the lack of engagement ring in the photos is the fact that Panettiere looks to be healthy and doing well.

More: Hayden Panettiere is the voice for postpartum depression we wish we didn't need

Whatever Panettiere has been doing to take care of herself, it looks like it’s working!

As a cop's wife and a former cop, watching the massacre in Dallas unfold in real time last night was horrific. First, the live feed from the protest, the rifle cracks, the realization there were bodies on the ground — and they weren’t moving.

Then the reports: first two cops down, then three cops dead with up to six people injured. By the time the chaos finally cleared, five officers had lost their lives, with seven more officers and at least one civilian injured. I went to sleep last night praying for two things: Please don’t let it come here, and please let my husband be deployed first if it does.

More: We can grieve black lives and blue lives at the same time

My husband is a cop, but he’s also an Army reservist who’s been home from his last deployment for almost three years. Army “dwell time” is just two years, so he’s overdue. It’s nothing short of a miracle that he’s still home, and I’ll be shocked if we make it through fall without some sort of deployment orders coming his way — most likely back to Afghanistan. And at this point, for so many reasons, I hope those orders come soon. My husband would be safer on deployment than here doing his everyday job.

Ridiculous, you think? Not really. Here, there is the very real chance he may not come home at the end of his shift. Not much different on deployment. Both jobs are inherently dangerous, and we both knew that going in.

But now people are shooting at cops because they are cops. How is that any different than overseas? What is the distinction between being shot at because you are an American infidel and being shot at because you wear a badge? In both cases you’re being attacked. The bullets shot from either gun will kill you just the same.

At least overseas he knows the enemy. At least overseas he will have pockets of safety, military bases with armed guards and intelligence officers offering protection from the adversary. Here, the enemy could be anywhere. They could be positioned across from the police training facility, patiently waiting for a class to start, when concentrating officers are sitting ducks for a rifle attack. Or across from the police office after roll call, when entire squads leave en masse to hit the streets to protect and serve.

More: Yes, fireworks really can traumatize military veterans

Or the enemy could be disguised as a protestor, blend in with a large, loud crowd, then break off for the high ground and start shooting at anything wearing a uniform.

Selfishly, today I am beyond thankful to have a cop husband who doesn’t wear a uniform. He’s on a plain-clothes specialty squad, and his occupation isn’t obvious at first glance. He doesn’t drive around every day in a marked car, the equivalent of a bull's-eye should someone want to take out a police officer. He will be harder for an assassin to find.

Last night in Dallas, the law enforcement community suffered perhaps the harshest loss since the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. At least one man donned tactical gear, grabbed guns and planned to terrorize and kill. Internet rumors are coming in that this may be the first of many coordinated attacks against cops in retaliation for recent controversial shootings.

More: Wise words to inspire and keep you grounded in this world

If my husband is going to be fighting terrorists out for his blood, I’d rather he be fighting them overseas, where the enemy is more obvious and the likelihood of being killed by someone you wanted to protect is far, far less.

Coming home from work on July 7, 2016, I heard the voice of Diamond Reynolds on the radio after she witnessed the murder of her partner, Philando Castile, last night in a town near Minneapolis. I nearly had to pull off the road as I listened to the rage and tears of Ms. Reynolds, about Castile being shot next to her in a car while her 4-year-old daughter was in the backseat. Castile was pulled over for a broken tail light.

More: Imagine if police got as much training on respect as black children do

According to Ms. Reynolds, the police asked both Castile and Reynolds to raise their hands. The officer then asked Castile for his identification. Castile told the officer he had a licensed firearm in his vehicle and he responded to the cop's request for his wallet, which required lowering an arm to reach into his pocket.

All hell broke loose, witnessed firsthand by Ms. Reynolds and her child. After the shooting, the officer kept his gun directed at Castile. No one checked Castile's pulse, and Ms. Reynolds and her child were left alone in the car for 15 minutes.

The day prior, a black man named Alton Sterling died in a similar shooting in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

I am likely complicit in the deaths of these two black men, shot by white police. How could that be? I didn't personally know either of these men. I barely know the difference between a rifle and a shotgun. There's no way I could pass a police physical.

But every time I've ignored or let racial statements pass me by — floating away like white cumulus clouds in a lazy sky — it's as if I pulled the trigger.

Several years ago, I visited my dentist's office for a routine check-up. I've been going to the same dentist for more than two decades. I know everyone in the office. I know how many kids they have, which ones are Scouts, which ones play soccer. I know who has grandkids.

I asked the receptionist what her son was doing for the summer. She said, "He's working construction this summer and is as dark as a n*****."

Did she really say that?

What did I do? I did not correct her. I gave a half giggle. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. That half giggle means I approved what she said. I did not. My lack of conviction has haunted me since it happened.

I am ashamed. A word, six little letters. But not just a word. This term represents the ideology that murders African-American men in this country. Somebody's son. Somebody's father. Somebody's brother.

More: 10 Black women who lost their lives to violence whose names you should know

That was five years ago. I've since called people out. I will do it again. Fighting injustice starts with the tiniest of actions.

In the late 50s, I was born in a rural area where no people of color lived. Let me say that again: No people of color lived in my county. My elementary school class of sixty children had one child of Hispanic descent. My classmate's mother was white, her father, Mexican. Her grandparents raised her. In high school, I met several Hispanic students and their families.

My parents were kind, decent, educated middle-class people. To their great credit, they offered my brother and me the world outside of our small, rural town. They took us to cultural activities and on vacations to cities with museums and monuments and theaters. They encouraged us to read books from the library and their collections. They subscribed to multiple newspapers and magazines, which opened up the world. We talked about current events and history nearly every day. My parents offered us all that they could from their vantage point in an all-white world. I am well aware of this great privilege of two, loving, long-married, educated parents.

But they could not provide what didn't exist. And the diversity — apart from books and media and traveling — wasn't there.

My personal history, my extreme whiteness, doesn't matter. I don't live in the 1950s anymore. In spite of my privileged and insular upbringing, I must speak up because that is what people of God are compelled to do. I am a Christian, and this is what Jesus calls us to do by His example. Regardless of your faith tradition, any person of peace must hoist a banner for justice.

This burden does not belong to our black brothers and sisters. This burden is on us to make the changes that are needed, in encounters every day where we work and play. The burden is on me. The burden is on you, my white friend.

Black lives matter, and white people — like me and others who sit behind the safety of our news programs and white privilege — must speak out and act up against racism.

Amy McVay Abbott is an award-winning writer. Her two columns, "A Healthy Age" and "The Raven Lunatic," are syndicated by Senior Wire News Service. She is the author of multiple books that can be purchased online or ordered through your favorite bookstore. Visit her site at amyabbottwrites.

This post was originally published on BlogHer.

More: What Do I Tell My Son: About the dangers of driving while black

It feels like it was just yesterday when Tayvin was going strong and Taylor Swift had a possible engagement on her mind. But my, how times have changed.

Hiddleswift emerged shortly after Calvin Harris and Taylor Swift split and now the "We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together" singer seems happier than ever as she travels the world with Thor actor, Tom Hiddleston. However, now it seems as if Calvin Harris isn't just going to sit idly by. Upon the release of his latest single, "Olé" featuring singer John Newman, there are some serious comparisons that could be made toward the musical exes and her swift hook-up with Hiddleston (And, yes, I did just do that).

Now first, before I get right into this, I just want to point out that there is still no proof that the song is about Swift. However, when you put lyrics and timing in place, I wouldn't put it past the seemingly bitter ex. Here's why.

More: It'll be a long time before Calvin Harris is on Team Hiddleswift

For one, the lyrics of the new single align with the Hiddleswift situation all too well. With lyrics such as, "I ain't seen you or been with you for weeks / But I see online that you've begun to be / A good girl and take trips with your boyfriend / Being attentive, continue to pretend," it's hard to deny that there's no public correlation that can be made. With Harris abruptly deleting photos of Tayvin from Instagram and Swift traveling the world, this song could totally be the medicine Harris needs to move forward. The overall heartbreak and longing in the song is relatable toward what Harris is going through — and what better way for him to get his feelings out?

But I know what you're going to say: Sources close to both Swift and Harris have denied the break-up song claims. “People are just making assumptions to get attention for a song,” a source from Us Weekly reported with news of the song being recorded months ago. However, that doesn't mean that Calvin Harris hasn't associated the song with Swift over time. And, with the song being John Newman's song first, all of the possible drama that could have been going on behind-the-scenes could be what drew Harris into picking up the song in the first place.

More: You won't see Calvin Harris dating another famous woman after Taylor Swift

I mean, who knows how long possible problems could have been brewing in the Tayvin relationship? Plus, with fear of a possible break-up on his mind, perhaps recording this song was just the ammo that Harris could have been arming his heart with. Especially if the rumors of Taylor Swift cheating on Harris with Hiddleston have any bit of truth to them — pre- or post- meeting Tom at the Met Gala on May 1.

So, yes, is assuming the song could have been written about Taylor a bit of a stretch? Absolutely. But when Calvin takes the stage to perform the song, I wouldn't put it past him to think about his famous ex. And, honestly, who knows how long those thoughts may have been crossing his mind?

More: Y'all are crazy — Selena Gomez would never date Calvin Harris

What do you think about the song's correlations to the Hiddleswift situation?

Julie Chen did not hold back when talking about the newbies in the Big Brother house. Following Victor’s eviction on Thursday night’s episode, Chen spoke openly about his disastrous game in an interview with Entertainment Weekly and said exactly what we’re all thinking about the newbies on BB18.

“These newbies are just not that sharp!” Chen said when asked about why the returning veteran players were dominating the game. “At least, not the last two that exited. Victor and Jozea are naïve and too confident. Their confidence was not based on anything but their own healthy sense of self,” Chen added.

More: Paul should just start packing, the Big Brother 8-Pack is unstoppable

While I don’t agree that Jozea and Victor’s cocky attitudes were in any way “healthy,” I do think that Chen hit the nail on the head with her observations here. Just about all the newbies, especially those not part of the 8-Pack, have been letting the returning players run the house. For some, like Bridgette or Nicole, laying low is proving to be a good strategy. But, for the more vocal (that is, ignorant and overconfident) players, like Victor and Paul, surrendering to the returning players is just a sure path to eviction.

Speaking of Victor specifically, Chen noted that his last-minute strategy of complete honesty was “naïve” and got him evicted. “He should have stopped blabbing the truth to everyone... especially non-allies,” Chen said before stating the truest words ever spoken: “There’s no honesty in Big Brother!”

More: Da'Vonne really shouldn't talk about loyalty while she's in the Big Brother house

Chen also took the time to breakdown the BB18 team names, saying that her least favorite name by far is Team Unicorn. “You have the worst name. At best, you’re friendly and magical to 3-year-olds. At worst, you’re not real and not a threat. Go home,” she said. Ouch.

More: I have high hopes for Big Brother's Fatal Five women

Not only does Team Unicorn have an awful name, according to Chen, but they’re also the least powerful team in the house. Originally made up of James, Natalie, Victor and Bronte, the team is already one man down. Without any standout players, save James, it would be a shock if Team Unicorn stayed intact much longer.

When it comes to the business of birth and babies, we're used to seeing something specific. Squeaky-clean babies photographed nicely against cheerful backdrops. Moms and dads with enough concealer under their eyes to spackle a dorm room poster wall. All of Mom's jiggle bits are well restrained, and Dad has shaved his five-o'clock shadow or at least wiped the puke from it.

And it's so nice that you sort of coo and give it a thumbs-up and never even let the reality enter your mind. The reality that says childbirth is messy as hell, babies come out a hot, gooey mess, and Mom has got a diaper on, the purpose of which is to catch a deluge of discharge and blood that would rival the scene from Carrie. That's the side one mom wanted to highlight when she posted her viral postpartum pic on Facebook on Wednesday.

More: Dad stays glued to his phone while his wife is in labor, internet flips out

Amanda Bacon summed up her post with two words: "Motherhood uncensored." And boy, is it ever. Glancing at it, it just looks like a happy dad with a brand-new baby in a dark hospital room. Look closer, and you'll see Bacon herself, shirtless, with her hair up, standing a little bowlegged with nothing on but a big ol' mesh nappy:

It's no wonder people love the picture. It's hard not to love someone who is so unapologetically realistic about what those first moments after birth look like. Sure, they're blissful. But they have to be, because it anesthetizes you to the fact that you'll be waddling around in chunks of your own body for a few weeks. That your breasts hurt and your vagina is sore and that you won't poop for days.

More: This bizarre attack on breastfeeding hurts moms and their kids

It's so amazing. It's also so gross and sucky.

And who wouldn't love Bacon's smiling partner, who is familiar enough with the process to give it a wry thumbs-up instead of a horrified grimace? It's important to have a sense of humor. Not everything has to be shrouded in feminine mystery that ignores the "icky" stuff or venerated as a gift from your inner goddess. Sometimes it can just be a weird thing your body does.

In her post, Bacon says, "Nothing says welcome to motherhood like an adorable squishy baby, and a giant mom diaper," and that's totally true. Somehow we've all reached this common, unspoken agreement to never utter words like "mucus plus" or "lochia" or "spontaneous defecation."

Instead we're supposed to imagine and act like giving birth is akin to waving a sparkle wand in front of your vagina, magicking your clean, perfumed baby out on gossamer rose-scented wings. And that's kind of a garbage thing to do. Because even if you know it's not really like that, your first time in the maternity ward will be a surprise. You won't be expecting the mom diaper. No one expects the mom diaper.

More: Sharing cute photos of my kids' naked butts comes at too high a price

And sure, not everyone might be comfy sharing shots of their beswaddled bum on Facebook, but with the response this post has gotten, it seems like at least we're all ready to stop pretending that the grittier, gooier parts of birth don't really exist.

While I am a black writer, I usually do not get too deep into judicial politics. But today, in light of the fatal shootings across the nation this week, I feel obligated to respond.

More: Imagine if police got as much training on respect as black children do

Like fellow black blogger Lisa a La Mode, I use my writing as an outlet for my passions, and though I may not plaster my blog or my social profiles with "Black Lives Matter" content, it does not in any way mean that I've forgotten that I'm a black woman. And it certainly does not mean I'm not heartbroken when I see injustice. Hell, I fear for my own life and my children's lives.

This week conversation is dominated by discussions about racism and hate. Yet we reward Donald Trump, who fertilizes the soil that breeds such hate and racism, by bringing him closer to being the leader of the free world. When fatal police shootings like these occur, it incites outrage. But where is the outrage when the presumptive GOP nominee in the great United States of America uses his platform to regularly incite political violence and is a serial liar, rampant xenophobe, racist, misogynist and birther who does not believe people of color are real Americans? Even a mosquito is higher up on his priority list.

Like President Obama said, "This isn't a black issue; it's an American issue." But are we doing enough? Besides calling out our friends and family who don't flood their social feeds with anger. Are we calling out the leaders that we put in place? These leaders ultimately make the laws and use the power that we give them. Do these leaders act on our behalf and in an apolitical bipartisan manner? Even if it may go against their political party? The burden of this fight extends beyond us — it should extend to our legislators and representatives.

More: 10 Black women who lost their lives to violence whose names you should know

If we want to make real change, don't just get angry and destroy our own communities like we saw last night when Dallas police offers were shot. Use the POWER that we do have through democracy. This November, if you're able to VOTE, then vote, but don't just stop there! Stand against representatives who stew the culture of hate and racial divides. Hold the lawmakers responsible for how they use the vote you give them. Hold Congress and the House of Representatives responsible. Make it difficult, in a responsible manner, for them to truly ignore us! This is a human fight, so stand up as a community, channel our anger and express our anguish by letting our voice be heard — NONVIOLENTLY.

Let the politicians and Congress know to stop with their partisan bull, pretending like they're really doing our bidding when they're really doing their own. Let them know that we're demanding social and judicial changes. Let them know we're advocating against steeper gun control laws and criminal justice reform. Tell them we will not tolerate their partisan hatred that is tearing our country apart any longer. It's time to denounce hate and racism at all levels, and November will be a referendum on them if they don't.

Contact your Congressman or woman.

This post first appeared on Nicole's Lifestyle Lounge.

More: What Do I Tell My Son: About the dangers of driving while black

A good guy with a gun. How many times have you heard that phrase in recent years? When Adam Lanza murdered innocent children in Sandy Hook Elementary School, NRA Executive Vice President Wayne LaPierre assured us they would have been fine if someone had been armed at the school, because, "The only way to stop a bad guy with a gun is with a good guy with a gun."

After each tragedy in America, after each call for some sort of gun control, someone from the NRA is sure to trot it back out.

More: My husband's a cop, and right now I wish he were deployed

Thursday night in Dallas, Texas, there were a lot of good guys with guns, people doing their duty to keep the streets of a city safe and allow for a peaceful protest by Black Lives Matter activists. Five of them are now dead. Seven more were severely injured.

Why? Because of Micah Xavier Johnson, now identified as the bad man with a gun in a state with some of the least restrictive gun laws in the nation, who murdered police officers on the streets of Dallas.

There's no waiting period to buy a firearm in the Lone Star State, nor is there state registration. And a new Texas law that went into effect just this past January allows for state residents to open carry handguns, while long guns, such as rifles and shotguns, do not need to be concealed so long as they're carried in a manner that "won't cause alarm," nor do they need to be licensed. There's no limit on assault rifles or the number of rounds you can have in a magazine. Machine guns, suppressors and short-barreled firearms are likewise all legal in Texas.

More: We can grieve black lives and blue lives at the same time

With laws like that, Texas is the perfect place for a bad guy with a gun.

And sadly, five good guys with guns have now lost their lives because Wayne LaPierre and every gun control advocate parroting him is wrong. A good guy with a gun is often helpless in the face of a bad guy with one.

In fact, when The Huffington Post looked at FBI data of mass shootings, it found that just 3 percent of the 160 active shooting situations that took place between 2000 and 2013 were ended by armed civilians coming to the rescue. Of those "good guys with guns," four were security guards, just one an average joe. What's more, 10 percent more of these incidents (13 percent) were actually ended by the actions of unarmed civilians.

And on the flip side, a Washington Post analysis of data from the FBI and the CDC determined that for every one “justifiable” gun homicide in 2012, there were 34 criminal gun homicides, 78 gun suicides and at least two accidental gun deaths.

We hear often that law enforcement officials are against gun control. One survey of police officers says that as much as 91 percent of them are against federal regulations because they say they will do little to reduce violent crime. In that same survey, 86 percent said tragedies such as Newtown or Aurora would have been avoided if there had been someone legally armed on the scene.

What do they say now? Now when 12 people who not only had guns but were trained far better than the average citizen were shot in cold blood, five of them fatally?

More: 10 things you're going to have a harder time getting than a gun

The horrifying truth made evident with this tragedy is that guns do indeed kill people, and the more there are, the less safe we are — even our brave men and women in uniform. Because widespread access to guns makes it that much easier for bad guys to spew their hate to the world with a bullet.

I've been using a Diva Cup for so long that I've kind of forgotten what periods were like before them. As much as I love mine, they're not perfect, and I think it's time we get honest about what using them is really like.

More: Dear skinny me, I will still love you when you're fat again

1. You might need to trim it first

Diva Cups have a tip with ridges to help you take it out later, but sometimes the tip is too long. I had to trim mine by a quarter of an inch before it stopped irritating my nether regions.

2. Even when you get used to it, it's still gonna leak

I've been using a Diva Cup for over five years. I still run into problems where midway through the day I find myself scrubbing my underwear in the sink. It's not because the cup overfloweth so much as it's because the cup gets tilted in the wrong way. For example, if I sit especially slothfully on the couch, lay in bed too long on the weekend and start doing yoga twists, or just don't quite get the suction right, leakages, uh, happen. But the same thing used to happen to me with tampons, so who am I to complain?

3. Pooping is a game of roulette

No, the cup has never actually come out while squatting, but it's been close enough that I take the possibility into consideration. I'll either take it out beforehand or play offense with the tip of the cup.

4. When it "pops" open, it's a little uncomfortable

Like a milder version of one of those brightly colored rubber poppers you loved as a kid, but inside your vagina.

5. Sometimes the alignment will be off

When you first put the cup in, your muscles or aim could tilt it to the side, but you might not notice until, say, you get back to your desk, where you then have to wiggle your hips in your seat to try to get it to set right. I've heard it recommended to do squats after inserting to position it right, but where's the fun in that?

6. You might regret trimming your nails

Look, it's never ever gotten "lost" (y'all need to spend more time exploring your genitalia), but I have made the mistake of cutting my nails super short during that time of the month and had to spend more time/effort/dexterity getting my grip to take it out. Pro tip: Pinching the cup itself to release the suction is KEY.

7. Public bathrooms aren't a problem because… I don't clean it every time

Pop it out, empty it, stick it back in. JUDGE NOT LEST YE BE JUDGED.

More: I was such a devoted atheist I almost missed out on a spiritual life

8. Your hands will get bloody sometimes

If I'm washing my hands in public, I'll wipe them on toilet paper first so as not to scare anybody.

9. You should probably empty it before exercise

Best not tempt the gods.

10. You're gonna need to give it a good scrub every once in a while

Although it'll probably never stay as clean and clear as when it first comes fresh out of the box.

11. You'll completely forget that periods used to smell

It wasn't until I read another article on menstrual cups that I remembered that iron-y stench that used to build up in the bathroom trash can for a week. You'll also forget what it was like having to drop your hard-earned cash every month to resupply or to be on the toilet and realize you're out of gear. But your period still might sneak up on you, and you may find yourself tapping co-workers on the shoulder to ask for a tampon.

12. IDK, turning your toilet water ruby red is a little bit fun?

More: Turns out yoga isn't as good for your body as you thought

We had fun rounding up the cutest candid photos from celebrity moms and dads on social media this week. Many A-listers had fun celebrating the 4th of July, including Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel, who shared a rare photo of their son Silas. Singer Pink got patriotic with her daughter Willow, while Jill Duggar celebrated with a photo collage with her son Israel. Newly married Ciara (and her amazing wedding dress), Fergie, Jessica Alba and Gwen Stefani are included in the list of the most buzzworthy celebrity moms of the week.

Jessica Biel and Justin Timberlake

Justin Timberlake shared this sweet snapshot of his and Jessica Biel’s 1-year-old son, Silas, as he holds the American flag. It appears Silas has just started walking and Timberlake couldn’t wait to post a picture of his new skills. The singer has posted a few shots of Silas, the last being with Biel on Mother’s Day, but is careful to never show his son's face on social media.

Ciara

Ciara posted this gorgeous photo on her wedding day as she married Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson in England. The singer wore an amazing Roberto Cavalli dress during her extravagant wedding. Ciara’s son, Future, was in the wedding and wore a Giorgio Armani suit.

“We are The Wilsons,” the caption simply said. Congratulations to the sweet couple!

More: Blake Lively, Blac Chyna and Behati Prinsloo show off their baby bumps

Pink

Pink and her husband, Carey Hart, celebrated July 4 with their daughter Willow by wearing matching patriotic sunglasses. The singer later shared a photo of her strawberry-and-blueberry pie that was made in the shape of an American flag, writing that “Chef Willow” helped her make the yummy treat.

Next up: Jessica Alba, Fergie, Jill Duggar and more candid celeb mom photos

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Jessica Alba

Jessica Alba celebrated July 4 with her daughters, Honor and Haven, as well as her father. The actress and Honest Company co-founder wrote that she spent the holiday with the “fam bam” and they enjoyed some BBQ while watching fireworks with her “papasito.” Sounds like a perfect night to us.

Fergie

Wearing a red wig and showing off her colorful nails, Fergie shared this photo from her "MILF$" video with her son, Axl Jack, enjoying his banana shake. The sweet boy is the only child of the singer and her husband, actor Josh Duhamel.

More: These baby boy names have serious swagger

Jill Duggar Dillard

Jill Duggar Dillard posted a photo collage wishing her fans Happy Independence Day and writing that they are “thankful for freedom.” In the collage, Dillard is seen with her son, Israel, as well as her husband, Derick. Fans couldn’t help but point out that Derick has lost quite a bit of weight recently and wondered about his health. The couple have been doing mission work in Central America and Derick also had jaw surgery, both of which could have contributed to his weight loss.

Next up: Gwen Stefani, Naya Rivera and Coco Austin’s adorable celeb mom photos

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Gwen Stefani

Gwen Stefani shared this sweet photo as her son Apollo gives her a big kiss on the cheek. The singer has two other sons, Kingston and Zuma, with her ex-husband Gavin Rossdale.

Naya Rivera

Glee alum Naya Rivera got into the spirit as she and her husband, Ryan Dorsey, had fun celebrating their son Josey’s first 4th of July. “The party’s here,” she captioned the comic photo, which shows her wearing a “mommy” shirt and Dorsey wearing a “daddy” shirt.

Coco Austin

Coco Austin enjoyed a midnight swim with her 7-month-old daughter, Chanel Nicole, who was wide awake after all the 4th of July festivities. Coco shared another photo of Chanel with their two dogs, and said that her daughter hasn’t yet started walking yet — and they are still waiting for those first teeth to come in.

More: Chrissy Teigen, Erika Christensen, Giuliana Rancic and more celeb mom photos

Stephen Hawking's life has been an achievement in more ways than one. At 21, he was given only two years to live, and today, he is 74. In 2014, a movie depicting his fascinating journey was finally released: The Theory of Everything tells the story of the life of "one of the world's greatest living minds," according to the film's official website, and his marriage to Jane Hawking. It received praise from the majority of reviewers.

The Theory of Everything is still a must-see, but we can't help but notice a few interesting things the film left out:

1. Stephen Hawking's marriage to his second wife also ended in divorce

The Theory of Everything depicts the challenging marriage between Stephen (Eddie Redmayne) and Jane Hawking (Felicity Jones). Eventually, the couple divorced and Stephen married his nurse, Elaine Mason (Maxine Peake). Stephen and Elaine divorced in 2006, after 11 years of marriage.

More: Eddie Redmayne vs. Benedict Cumberbatch — who plays Stephen Hawking best?

2. Rumors of abuse committed by his second wife, Elaine

In 2003, Stephen Hawking's own daughter, Lucy, reported mysterious injuries on her father to the police. According to the Daily Mail, "Prof Hawking declined to explain how his injuries had come about. A number of his former nurses, however, were in no doubt. They alleged that over the years his wife inflicted a catalogue of injuries on the vulnerable scientist: fractured his wrist by slamming it on to his wheelchair; humiliated him by refusing him access to a urine bottle, leaving him to wet himself; gashed his cheek with a razor, allowed him to slip beneath the water while in the bath, ensuring water entered the tracheotomy site in his throat; and left him alone in his garden during the hottest day of the year so long that he suffered heatstroke and severe sunburn."

Next Up: Stephen Hawking believes in aliens and is afraid of them

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3. Stephen Hawking believes in aliens and is afraid of them

On the Discovery Channel show, Into the Universe with Stephen Hawking, the astrophysicist said through his computer-generated voice that, "If aliens visit us, the outcome would be much as when Columbus landed in America, which didn't turn out well for the Native Americans. Such advanced aliens would perhaps become nomads, looking to conquer and colonize whatever planets they can reach. To my mathematical brain, the numbers alone make thinking about aliens perfectly rational."

More: 12 Celebs who surprisingly believe in aliens

4. Stephen Hawking loves strippers

According to the Daily Beast, "Hawking became a regular at Stringfellows strip club in London." The scientist has also reportedly been "spotted numerous times getting lap dances at the California strip club Devore, and was even said to have frequented Freedom Acres, a swinger's club in California."

5. Jane and Stephen Hawking are polar opposites

While Stephen came from a highly intellectual family that some even called eccentric, Jane Wilde came from less academically minded parents. Her choice to attend university back in the 1960s was considered to be quite bold because she was a woman. However, it's this polarity in the relationship that really sparked Eddie Redmayne's interest. "They were very different people, both extraordinary yet polar opposites. The idea of two human beings completing one another and defying all the odds I found compelling — and oh, was it romantic!" said Redmayne.

The Theory of Everything is now on Amazon and iTunes. Eddie Redmayne won an Oscar for his performance in the film.

More: Golden Globes — Bill Cosby and Sony hacks are not safe from Tina Fey

Originally published Jan. 2015. Updated July 2016.

Nicky Hilton Rothschild and her husband, James Rothschild, welcomed their first child into the world — and the baby name they chose couldn't be more classic, as a source confirmed to E! News that little Lily Grace Victoria Rothschild has arrived.

More: Photos of Caitlyn Jenner's new grandbaby are simply adorable

Nicky, who was born Nicholai Olivia Hilton, married the British banking heir in 2015, and they've been excitedly planning for their baby's arrival for months.

With a gorgeous photo like this, it's no wonder she and her husband went the classic route with their baby's name. And although classic baby names are definitely on the rise nationwide (Lily, for example, was the 25th most popular girl name in 2015, and Grace checked into the 19th spot while Victoria stepped in right behind it in spot 20), the three names strung together definitely give off a vintage vibe that suits the family well.

More: 40 celebrities whose baby names we want to steal

The Hilton family has a lot of names that get handed down to babies, which isn't unusual for powerful families. The name Barron, for example, has been handed down through the family for several generations (in fact, one of Nicky's brothers is named Barron). It got its start in the family as the maiden name of Nicky's great-grandmother, who was married to hotelier Conrad Hilton — the driving force behind Hilton Hotels.

Lily Grace Victoria, though, has a name all on her own within her family. With more and more classic, vintage baby names becoming popular, it's nice to see that these old-timey baby names are sounding fresh and new again.

More: 32 'weird' celebrity baby names people love to hate

You don't have to choose a top 20 baby name to find a charming, classic name, either. There are tons to choose from that hail from popular names in decades past, such as Vivian, Adeline and Mattie.

Congrats, Hilton and Rothschild families — we can't wait to see pics of your new little cherub.

Ashley Graham's super hot cover of Cosmopolitan just came out, but instead of reading about how amazing she looks or what a great step it is for women everywhere to see Graham on the mag's cover, you probably read headlines like this: “Ashley Graham calls out Amy Schumer’s ‘double standard.’” That one was from the NY Daily News. There’s also this one from The Daily Mail: “Ashley Graham blasts Amy Schumer for her anger at being labeled ‘plus-size.’” So, are Graham and Schumer feuding? Absolutely not!

After the release of Graham’s interview, in which she did comment on Schumer’s rejection of the "plus size" label, Schumer and Graham actually exchanged ideas and compliments on Twitter. You know, like adults who respect each other do — like women do, quite frequently, I might add. In the exchange of just a few tweets, Graham and Schumer shut down the stereotype that women — specifically those in positions of power — are catty or always competing with each other. Women can disagree and exchange opposing ideas without being in a “feud.”

More: Amy Schumer is an American treasure for continuing to spread body positivity

Here’s what you need to know: the non-feud started back in April, when Glamour released a plus-size issue that featured Graham alongside other plus-size or curvy (or whatever your preferred descriptor is) celebs like Adele and Melissa McCarthy. The magazine also praised Schumer on its cover — something she noted that they did without asking her. In an Instagram post, Schumer said she did not want to be a part of the issue because she feared it sent the wrong message to young girls. Her main concern: that women would look at her “size 6 and an 8” body and believe that it is plus size, as opposed to the more traditional definition of plus as sizes 16 and up.

Cut to three months later. Graham referred to Schumer’s disapproval of being included on the cover of Glamour’s plus-size issue in her interview with Cosmo. “I can see both sides, but Amy talks about being a big girl in the industry. You thrive on being a big girl, but when you’re grouped in with us, you’re not happy about it? That, to me, felt like a double standard,” Graham said. Let’s break this down: Graham first starts by saying that she understands where Schumer was coming from, adds her perspective and then makes sure to clarify that it was her feeling that Schumer's rejection of the label was “a double standard.” Overall, Graham’s comments come off as more of an expression of disagreement than a declaration of war.

More: Ashley Graham's getting hate for her post about her "cellulite city" thighs

Schumer, being a reasonable person and not (as some of the media might like) an emotional mess, responded on Twitter, saying that she, too, understood where Graham was coming from. “I totally understand Ashley’s feelings. I don’t group myself with her because she is unbelievably beautiful. Nothing but respect for her,” Schumer tweeted.

Though Schumer did not tag Graham in her tweet, Graham responded, saying that she had nothing but “the greatest respect” for Schumer. Schumer then ended the conversation, tweeting to Graham, “Rock on girl. I’m so grateful for you. You inspire me!!!” So, no, Amy Schumer and Ashley Graham aren’t feuding. In fact, they’re both working together to prove that beauty comes in all different shapes and sizes. They just go about it differently.

Furthermore, it’s important to point out that both Schumer and Graham have good points on the issue. Schumer is right to say that it’s ridiculous that, in the fashion world — the world of celebrities and magazine covers — a size 6 or 8 is considered plus. On the other hand, Glamour was trying to be more inclusive and, as Graham stated, Schumer does frequently use her body and the fact that it doesn’t fit the Hollywood mold in her work.

More: Why Jennifer Lawrence should not be the media's poster girl for curves

So what if Schumer and Graham don't agree on this one issue? They were able to resolve their disagreement publicly and amicably, in what will hopefully be an example to young women that there’s more than one way to fight for body acceptance and that we don’t need to be fighting with each other just because the media says we should be.

Ah, summer! It's the perfect time to kick back and soak up as much music as possible. Lucky for us, there's always a plethora of releases in the months of June, July and August, and this week was no exception. Considering all the horrifying stuff that's been going on in the world, good music is just what the doctor ordered.

We ranked a smattering of awesome new songs that came out this week from our least favorite to favorite. But, as with anything, music is totally subjective — so don't be afraid to let us know what some of your favorite new releases were this week!

12. Fergie, "M.I.L.F. $"

OK, so admittedly I'm not the hugest fan of the song itself, but the girl-power positivity is undeniable. Plus, that video is fierce.

More: Stars try to be funny on Twitter — and this week, 9 of them actually were

11. Clams Casino, "Ghost in a Kiss"

This song may have been released in the summer, but it totally should have come out in October because it's straight-up scary.

10. Good Charlotte, "Life Can't Get Much Better"

They're back! And as if seeing Good Charlotte's name pop up in our news feeds wasn't nostalgic enough, their latest song is totally reminiscent of '90s Blink 182 — in the best way possible.

9. Various artists, "Hands"

In the grand tradition of "We Are the World," Interscope Records rallied an all-star line-up of 24 artists — including Mary J. Blige, Imagine Dragons, Jennifer Lopez, Jussie Smollett and Britney Spears — to record a song to pay tribute to the victims of the Orlando shooting last month.

From each sale of the song on iTunes, $0.43 will be donated to Equality Florida, $0.43 will be donated to GLBT Community Center of Central Florida and $0.43 will be donated to GLAAD.

You can purchase it here.

8. Jennifer Lopez and Lin-Manuel Miranda, "Love Make the World Go Round"

JLo was working double time for the Orlando victims. In addition to "Hands," she also recorded this track with Lin-Manuel Miranda of Hamilton fame.

Their song can be purchased on iTunes here, and all proceeds go directly to Hispanic Federation for the Somos Orlando Fund.

7. Rizzle Kicks, "Everyone's Dead"

Don't be fooled by the name of the song; it's got a funky beat and a good message.

The single is available for purchase on iTunes here.

6. The Avalanches, "Subways"

Kind of makes you feel like putting on some roller skates and hitting up the closest rink, right?

5. John Newman, "Olé"

I dare you to listen to this one and not crave a piña colada. Double dare you.

Newman's latest single is available for download here.

4. Bob Sinclar, "Somone Who Needs Me"

OK, I think I've found my latest cardio/pool party remix.

You can download Sinclar's funky new beats here.

3. Florida Georgia Line, "Smooth"

It ain't summer without a li'l country. Throw on some cut-offs and your boots and do a little jig to this fun warm-weather ditty.

Florida Georgia Line's new album Dig Your Roots doesn't come out until August, but if you pre-order now, you automatically get "Smooth." You can purchase here.

2. Steve Aoki & Autoerotique, "ILYSM"

Besides the fact that this song obviously makes you want to hit the nearest dance floor, we're also in love with the fact the vocals are remastered from Brandy's '90s smash "I Wanna Be Down." Amazing.

"ILYSM" is available for download here.

1. Francis and the Lights with Bon Iver and Kanye West, "Friends"

It's hard to endorse anything that has Kanye attached to it, but goddamn this song is good. It's the definition of ethereal, and you totally want to listen to it sitting on the beach on a cool summer morning. And the video — albeit super awkward — is adorable.

What's your favorite new release of the week?

Hot on the heels of Lisa Vanderpump's announcement that she will be returning to The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills and Kathryn Edwards' announcement that she will not, it seems there's another Housewife waiting in the wings to shake things up for Season 7 of the show.

Us Weekly is reporting that the newest addition to the cast is Dorit Kemsley, a close friend of Vanderpump's. Kemsley fills one of the spots left vacant by the exits of Edwards and Yolanda Hadid, who also recently announced that she would not be back on the show.

Bravo hasn't confirmed the reports yet, but so far, it seems the English fashion designer will become a familiar face when RHOBH's seventh season premieres later this year.

More: Thank goodness Lisa Vanderpump is back on board for RHOBH

Kemsley keeps a low profile on social media, but here's a little more that we've learned about her so far.

1. She's a swimwear designer

According to her bio on the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week website, Kemsley "is the founder/designer of Dorit, an Italian swim and resort line. Dorit began her career in Italy, where she worked behind design, manufacturing, sales and marketing before returning back to NYC in 2009, where she established Dorit International, an American/Italian based company."

More: Meet Kathryn Edwards, the newest Housewife of Beverly Hills

2. She's a newlywed... kind of

Kemsley married her husband, Paul Kemsley, in a lavish NYC wedding ceremony in March 2015. The bride gushed about her nuptials: "I felt like I was floating outside my body,” says Dorit. “I was filled with love and completely euphoric." Swoon.

3. She and her husband have two children

The Kemsleys welcomed son Jagger, now 2, before their wedding in 2015 and recently welcomed their daughter, Phoenix.

4. Paul is a property developer, a businessman and Boy George's manager

The iconic British singer even performed at the couple's wedding, and they hang out on the regular.

More: Lisa Vanderpump is a genius

5. She hobnobs with plenty of celebrities

Kemsley may not be well known just yet, but she's no stranger to hanging out with celebs like Goldie Hawn and Robert De Niro.

What do you think of Bravo's latest pick for RHOBH? Are you ready for Season 7?

I have been drowning in a sea of think pieces this week, in social media threads, cellphone footage and Facebook live streams surrounding the topic of the black death. For the first time, I am too weary to fight back.

White people have been eerily silent, and I’m left with a multitude of questions that build with my rage. What I want to know — as a black woman who could be gunned down at any moment — is where are the voices belonging to the majority race to question what has happened this week?

More: Alton Sterling’s death changes the conversation for every black family

Upon reading about Philando Castile’s murder, my body went numb with defeat. The realization of the situation hit my stomach like a sucker punch and settled for hours afterward. Here was the umpteenth murder of an unarmed black man just 24 hours after the umpteenth murder of an unarmed black man. Alton Sterling was shot dead by two Baton Rouge police officers while selling CDs in the parking lot of a convenience store just one day before.

The time periods between these killings are getting smaller, and the reasonings behind them are nonexistent at this point. How are we, as black men and women, supposed to stay alive in a society run in part by a force that seemingly wants us dead?

My fellow black and brown friends and I — as writers, teachers and generally "woke" individuals — have done our best thus far to educate others on the issues of violence facing our community.

Nine times out of 10, white and/or white passing individuals don’t have to worry about the threat of police brutality and uncalled for murder by a police officer; they aren’t, however, exempt from it. This lack of a threat to their existence that can lead to ignorance when they are faced with the topic of police brutality and the facts surrounding it.

Black people are two and a half times more likely to be shot than white people. Black men accounted for 40 percent of the 60 unarmed victims fatally shot by police officers by August of 2015. As of Thursday, Philando Castile is the 123rd black person shot by police in 2016 alone. But still, many of those who are privileged enough to not have to worry about being targeted by the law because of their skin color aren’t understanding what has the black community up in arms.

But the education never stops, microaggressions still rear their ugly heads and the controversial #AllLivesMatter stills exists without any legitimate knowledge of #BlackLivesMatter. The racial battle fatigue, which grows out of the constant worry and stress black people have when faced with instances of injustice, racism, violence and the like, is real for all of us.

Our existence comes with automatic baggage of that kind, leading to a life of struggle in one way or another. To have to fight constantly wears one down, and fighting injustice is no different.

Artistic and social aspects of our culture, considered lesser in relation to a person of color, are “borrowed” and made socially acceptable by white people every day. Why is the white community, then, so slow to anger over the murder of the black and brown bodies, which they are so quick to pick apart for their gain?

What do we, as a community, have to do to be seen as human?

More: We can grieve black lives and blue lives at the same time

I ask myself this while thinking of my family and friends. My father, my stepbrother, my cousins, my nephew are all black men who are at risk of being murdered for an action as simple as walking down the street. All those in power need to see is a person with skin darker than their own to set off the worry and suspicion.

But as helpless and fearful as I feel, I am also enraged. Enraged at the racism and on sight bias that comes with being a black person in society, but also enraged at the deaf, dumb and mute approach a majority of white America is taking on our plights.

Where are our white allies in the spotlight using their platform to speak to issues of brutality toward people of color? What do the white entertainers and social media stars who so frequently borrow from our musical, artistic and fashion forward culture have to say about the frequency of unarmed murders plaguing us? They stay silent until the latest hoopla blows over, but open their eyes and ears to the latest dance moves and slang terms upon emergence.

Where the physically silent can be found is in the threads of social media, crowing “all lives matter” and claiming reverse racism to people of color who do speak out against police brutality. Grey’s Anatomy star Jesse Williams received more than 5,000 Change.org signatures worth of backlash after his BET Awards acceptance speech on the state of being black in America wasn’t well received.

To tear down those who attempt to educate communities of all ethnicities is the equivalent of being told to sit down and shut up. Social rights activist Desmond Tutu made famous the quote, “If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor,” and never has a sentence applied more than it does to those keeping mum on this ongoing discrimination.

More: Don't forget: Dallas shooting victims were 'good guys with guns'

The neutral parties found defending only police officers caught in the crossfire of protests turned violent, can also be found among the mum.

Twelve police officers in Dallas were shot by a sniper aiming to “kill white people” during a Black Lives Matter protest on Thursday night, and five officers succumbed to their injuries. #PrayForDallas began trending, and those with nothing to say on the previous murders suddenly had a lot to say.

A Facebook friend of mine, of mixed descent, let her friends list know how “senseless” killing the cops were — as her boyfriend is an officer — but she has never spoken on issues of police brutality. It’s both frustrating and sickening to see the practical worship those unthreatened by officers have for the law. Nevertheless, our country’s approach to violence is inspiring waves of nonsensical aggression and, as many Facebook friends are claiming, a possible “war” — a reality and a possibility that must be done away with. Change cannot occur when it’s rooted in hate.

My heart is heavy with dread, fear and anticipation.

More: Philando Castile had a gun permit so where’s the NRA today?

Like the racial vanguards around me, I will continue educating those who correct me when I say “black lives matter,” “reverse racism isn’t real” and “they’re targeting us.” But I need for those who refuse to address our predicament to speak on why “good cops” aren’t speaking against their rogue colleagues, why the public justifies black deaths and where we as a society will go from here and join those of us working to make a difference. Actions have always spoken louder than words.

I'll take extra cherries in my Shirley Temple mojito, please. The cherry was my favorite part of a Shirley Temple drink when I was a kid. I used to ask for extra, and now that I'm the one making the drinks, I like to load it up with cherries.

More: Rhubarb and ginger mojito

Lime and fresh mint complement this refreshing drink inside and out.

This colorful mojito isn't kid stuff, that's for sure, but it may just make you feel like a kid again even if just for a moment.

Shirley Temple mojito recipe

Serves 2

Total time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• 3 cups lemon-lime soda
• 1/4 cup grenadine syrup
• 1 lime, juiced
• 3 ounces light rum
• 16 mint leaves
• 2 cups ice cubes
• 2 lime slices, for garnish
• 2 sprigs mint, for garnish
• 6 maraschino cherries, for garnish

More: Mojito iced green tea

Directions:

1. To the serving glasses, add about 1/2 the ice.
2. To a small pitcher or large pouring measuring cup, add the lemon-lime soda, grenadine syrup, lime juice and rum. Stir together.
3. Gently roll the mint leaves between your hands a couple of times.
4. Rub the mint leaves around the rims of the serving glasses.
5. Add the mint leaves and 2 cherries to each serving glass.
6. Top with the remaining ice.
7. Pour the Shirley Temple mixture into the serving glasses.
8. Garnish each glass with a slice of lime, sprig of mint and a maraschino cherry.
9. Serve right away.

More: Watermelon tequila mojito

Amber Portwood’s fiancé, Matt Baier, can’t keep the skeletons in his closet under wraps. Between his child support problems and his suspicious interest in all the Teen Mom women, he’s always fighting back against rumors. This week’s problem comes from Baier’s own son.

Chris, one of Baier’s older children, has spoken out against him, calling Baier the “ultimate con-artist” and “a horrible, nasty person.”

More: Amber Portwood's fiancé's drunken behavior is rather troubling (VIDEO)

Chris is evidently not one to be unclear about his feelings.

He explained that Matt Baier never had a drug problem; he just used Chris’s own struggles as a way to bond with Portwood and make sure that he could stay in a relationship with her. Chris claims, “I hate that man, for everything he is and isn’t. He asked me to tell him all about my problems with drugs. When I saw him on MTV, he was talking about all of my drug problems that I told him about, and made believe they were his problems. The truth of the matter is, he’s an evil, evil man, and when he did evil things, he was stone cold sober.”

More: Amber Portwood's fiancé Matt Baier addresses child support accusations

Matt, of course, denied these claims and said that the only reason his son is speaking out against him is because he was offered money when he needed it most. Matt said, "What actually happened is he was contacted by the press numerous times in the last six months or so and offered money to say bad things about me. Him and I talked about this and he contacted me about it.”

Clearly, Matt would want to defend himself against such terrible claims as the one Chris mentioned, but it’s still a little unsettling that he was so quick to throw his son under the bus in order to do so. It’s one thing to be a deadbeat dad who doesn’t pay child support, but it’s a whole different thing to not support your child, even in the press. If anything, Matt should have ignored Chris's claims and handled the rest in private.

More: Amber Portwood's incredible transformation extends past her weight (PHOTOS) 

Portwood hasn’t said anything about the entire situation, but she’s been known to stand by her man, so we shouldn’t expect anything shocking to come from her at this point

Little People, Big World’s central family has been all but deteriorating right in front of our eyes over the last few years. Matt and Amy Roloff’s marriage is over, and their oldest sons are married and looking to start traditions of their own. Molly, their only daughter, is off at college creating her life. And their youngest son, Jacob... well, he just hates the show and what it did to his family.

More: Amy Roloff is living proof you're never too old to do what you want

Jacob has been absent from the episodes for quite some time now, and fans have started commenting on his Instagram that they miss him and want him to return to the show for at least a few episodes. If you happened to be one of those fans, you should lose all hope now. Jacob posted a long explanation on his Instagram that basically said it's never gonna happen.

Under a picture of the crew filming a family bonfire, Jacob wrote,  “For the sake of 'the episode' and ratings I've seen a lot of STORYLINES drawn up (loosely) about our lives, and when I was standing here, behind the scenes and watching it from an outside perspective I just couldn't stop laughing. Laughing at how hard the producers have to try to get us to follow the talking points, and at how ridiculous the talking points are.”

More: Little People, Big World star wants to start a "war" over anti-LGBT rights

He continued, explaining that “the primary objective I have felt and observed over the years of the 'crew' is to preserve their job and preserve the ratings, which is up to you to be right or wrong. That's not to say they are all soulless corporate shills or something, there are and have been good people involved but that doesn't negate the fact that they do have their own personal agenda. For me, noticing how the agenda of the crew doesn't work well with the health & happiness of our family is what made me decide quite a while ago that I would not be a part of it as soon as I was able.”

Jacob then ended by saying, “I am with my family and I love them I'm just here to say you'll never see that from me on TV again.”

I have to say that after reading his explanation, I have a newfound respect for Jacob. His response to his fans was thoughtful, fair and calm — not something you get from teenagers who are rebelling against something they’ve been a part of their whole lives. He’s not the first person to talk about what a reality show can do to a family or a marriage, but he’s one of the few who can say what he needed to say without blaming individuals or alienating himself from the people who genuinely enjoyed his family and their storylines.

More: Little People, Big World's Matt Roloff needs to learn to not rush his ex-wife in the kitchen

While it would be great to have Jacob's perspective on the show, it’s great that he’s doing what’s best for him and his family. We wish you all the luck in the world, Jacob.

Aubrey Plaza confirmed that she can fall in love with both men and women. During a recent interview with The Advocate magazine, Plaza knew that it probably doesn’t come as a shock to anyone, but she still had no problem coming out.

More: Aubrey Plaza: Humor is my defense mechanism

When asked whether girls come on to her often, Plaza told The Advocate, “I know I have an androgynous thing going on, and there’s something masculine about my energy. Girls are into me — that’s no secret. Hey, I’m into them too. I fall in love with girls and guys.”

She also talked about how she’s been involved in the LGBT community from as early as she can remember: “There was this gay community [in Wilmington, Delaware] that really welcomed me. All my friends were gay. I went to an all-girls Catholic school in a very conservative neighborhood, but I felt at 12, 13, that my home was this theater and that those were my people.”

More: Aubrey Plaza takes lead in Grumpy Cat film

For anyone who was paying attention — including those people in her family — Plaza’s confession is probably a little obvious. She said, “I have a gay aunt and a gay uncle... My younger sister is a lesbian, so it’s just in my blood, I guess. She came out to me when she was 17 or 18, and for, like, a millisecond I was surprised. Then I replayed our entire life in my mind, and I was like, ‘Of course! Of course, I know that!’”

Having the ability to fall in love with both genders hasn’t helped Plaza's odds of finding someone she wants to date, however. She said, “I am the last person on earth I’d ever go on a date with,” adding that her ideal first date would be to not go on a date at all.

More: Aubrey Plaza kicked out of MTV Movie Awards

Honestly, if we can get that non-date dating trend going, I’m totally on board.

As for her other confessions, we’re sending big congratulations to Plaza. Even if it isn’t huge news, anytime someone is brave enough to be their authentic self, it should be celebrated.