There are some shows you can "watch" without lifting your eyes up from your phone. Even sight gags like Dwight's jello-encased stapler or Joey wearing all of Chandler's clothes only need a quick glanced to enjoy them. And then there are shows where the visuals are so striking, you just have to watch every detail. Whether it's stunning costumes, drop-dead scenery, or tiny, can't-miss moments that you have to notice to keep up with the story—if you blink, you just might miss it. So go ahead check out these shows that have plenty of eye candy for you to enjoy. Palm Royale This soapy story of a Tennessee beauty pageant queen trying to make it big in Palm Beach high society in the late 1960s features a cavalcade of legendary actresses (Carol Burnett, Allison Janney, and Kristen Wiig, to name a few), in a candy-colored world of fizzy fashion and architecture. I see a lot of fab 60s cocktail parties—featuring grasshopper cocktails, of course—in our future. Where to watch: Max The Gilded Age If your guilty pleasure is slightly more old-fashioned luxury, check out this look at the robber baron era, featuring yet another formidable slate of actresses (Christine Baranski, Cynthia Nixon, and Carrie Coon, among them) and plenty of extravagant parties and eye-popping florals and costumes to dazzle you. Where to watch: Max Death and Other Details The rich and fabulous board a gorgeously refurbished vintage cruise ship that's soon beset by a series of murders—with a legendary detective (Mandy Patinkin) on board to try to solve the case. Think high seas Knives Out, with an even posher set of suspects and a more beautiful locale. Where to watch: Hulu The White Lotus Yes, Jennifer Coolidge steals the show in both installments of this lifestyles of the rich and troubled show. There's always plenty of trouble in the White Lotus version of paradise, no matter how jaw-droppingly beautiful the location. Right now, you have your pick of Sicily or Hawaii as destinations, but season 3 (set in Thailand) is just around the corner in 2025. Where to watch: Max Shogun This new series is the very definition of the word "epic." A new retelling of the classic novel, Shogun is a sweeping tale of political and real-life battles for power in feudal Japan, with a shipwrecked English sailor, a powerful lord, and a female samurai at its center. Where to watch: Hulu Wednesday If it's from Tim Burton, you know it's guaranteed to have plenty of eye candy. His fresh reimagining of the classic Addams Family puts Wednesday at a gothier version of Hogwarts, with similarly creepy dangers afoot. Where to watch: Netflix Only Murders in the Building Even if you've already caught this hilarious neighbors-turned-murder-podcasters show, rewatch just to enjoy (and envy) the gorgeously styled apartments at the Arconia. They're definitely to die for. Where to watch: Hulu Big Little Lies If your job is "beach"—or you just wish your job was—this dishy murder mystery in reverse features enough windswept beach vistas to keep you satisfied, along with sneak peeks into a slew of stylish beachy mansions that'll leave you green with envy. Where to watch: Max Julia This fun and frothy look at the rise of legendary chef Julia Child takes you from her all-too-charming little cottage in Cambridge, to (in season two) an eye-poppingly beautiful sojourn in France. Be sure to have plenty of gourmet eats available, as the food she makes is just as delicious as the rest of it. Where to watch: Max The New Look This new series takes a behind-the-scenes look at the rise of legendary fashion houses in the 1940s, including Dior, Chanel, Balenciaga, and more. If fashion is your favorite form of eye candy, this is the show for you. Where to watch: Hulu Blue Planet II Enjoy the real life beauty of the oceans—and learn about the fascinating creatures beneath the waves—with this critically acclaimed series, narrated by Sir David Attenborough. Where to watch: Max, Discovery+ The Haunting of Hill House If you're looking for a more chilling must-watch, The Haunting of Hill House, based on the equally creepy classic by Shirley Jackson, could be your cup of tea. In addition to the ominous (though grand) house, you'll need to keep a watchful eye out for the spirits that all-too-regularly appear in the background. Where to watch: Netflix The Reluctant Traveler Travel shows give you a front row seat to all the beauty in the world, and Eugene Levy makes a charming travel companion. In the series' two seasons, he takes you everywhere from ice fishing in Finland to sumo wrestling in Japan. Where to watch: Apple TV Twin Peaks David Lynch's tour de force series had two disturbing and dazzling go-rounds, filled with supernatural weirdness, visual chaos, and plenty of cherry pie. Even if you already know who killed Laura Palmer, it's stunning enough for another rewatch. Where to watch: Paramount+ Pushing Daisies This gone-too-soon delight created a visual wonderland with its colorful vintage vibe and excessively fun set pieces. Pie maker Ned has a magical power that lets him briefly resurrect the dead, and he puts it to use to help solve outlandish murders—all while falling in love with his childhood friend who he's unable to touch. Where to watch: Max Bridgerton From the vibrantly candy-colored clothing for the Featherington clan to Queen Charlotte's grandiose wig—to the easy-on-the-eyes actors playing each season's newest paramour, the ever-popular and ever over-the-top series is the very definition of eye candy. The good news? You don't have to wait much longer for the newest season (and the latest set of lovers). Where to watch: Netflix

While the idea of attending a cannabis pairing dinner party curated by Martha Stewart and Snoop Dogg might sound like a fever dream, it can become your reality, thanks to BIC EZ Reach and SWED. The companies are collaborating to host an intimate dinner party with cannabis-infused mocktails and delicious dishes on April 17th in West Hollywood, California. If this sounds like your cup of tea—eh, cannabis, you can purchase tickets on a first come, first served basis on April 10 at BIC.com. (Set your alarms!) Martha's plan for the the decor and menu Ahead of the dinner, we chatted with Martha about the party planning process. While she and Snoop wanted the event to take place on 4/20 for obvious reasons, "It's Easter, so it's going to take place on the 17th so people can be with their children and the Easter Bunny," she says. Of course, Martha had a say on the decor and the dishes that will be served. "There will be white linen tablecloths with crystal and silver, and you'll probably be getting something like delicious baby lamb chops ... with brown butter polenta. And there will be cannabis-infused mocktails," she explains. We asked Martha a few questions we'd love to ask her at a dinner party. Here's what she had to say about the smell of cannabis (she likes it!), putting her phone on "do not disturb" (she hates it!), and things she's learned from her friendship with Snoop (so many). Martha's Wise Words On... Cannabis While Martha credits Snoop for all the cannabis-related trends, she says she uses her lighters for other things. "I'm not a traditional user of cannabis," she reveals. "I use my lighters for lighting my candles—natural beeswax candles that smell delicious—and for the flambéing of the alcoholic beverages." But that doesn't mean she can't enjoy herself at a cannabis fête. "I like the smell, OK? I don't mind the smell of weed at all, and so I sort of enjoy it," she says. What she's learned from Snoop When I asked Martha what she's learned from her friendship with Snoop over the years, she had a lengthy list. "Oh, well, so much!" she shares. "Not only about music and being introduced to all the musicians—like, I wouldn't know who Lil Yachty was. And so I've gotten to learn a lot about the music, and I really like rap a lot," she adds. Martha says that Snoop has also taught her about fashion. "Snoop fashion, which is extraordinary and very chic, actually," she says. And while Martha Stewart may be the original creator of "lifestyle" content, she's learned a more low-key approach from Snoop. "I learned just a kind of casual lifestyle that I would have never known otherwise, you know?" Martha says. Her best-kept skincare secret When it comes to her beauty routine, the 83-year-old credits washing her face in the morning and before bed for her great skin. "Use the very best products on your face that you can find that agree with your type of skin," she recommends. "I use sunscreen every single morning, all over—I use a tinted moisturizer from Alastin." Why she never puts her phone on "do not disturb" "I'm a bad relaxer, I think," Martha says. "I'm still running a business. I have lots of obligations, so to get disconnected is pretty hard for me. I can get disconnected by about 9:00 at night, and probably till about 7 a.m.," she shares. But don't assume that she's putting her phone on do not disturb. "I have a family; what if my daughter had to reach me? I think it's kind of a weird thing that you're even able to disconnect like that. I don't like being disconnected. By the way, if I did use do not disturb, I wouldn't have gotten the phone call from Snoop Dogg the other night, at like, 1:00 in the morning." (Spoiler: she didn't pick up because it was a FaceTime and she had already washed her face.) Her top dinner party hosting tip The queen of hosting shared her best tip: "Don't try to be too clever with your guest list. If you're inviting somebody that you really think is very special, think of people who would get along with that very special person," she says. And the #1 hosting mistake to avoid "Also be very nice when the guests arrive, to make sure you include everybody in introductions. When you have to go and introduce yourself in somebody's house, I think that's really bad." We're taking notes for our next dinner party!

The Fab Five, as we know and love them, are changing. Last fall, Bobby Berk announced that he would be leaving Queer Eye and that Season 8, which was released in January, would be his last season of the show. On Tuesday, Netflix finally announced Berk's replacement: interior designer Jeremiah Brent. The rest of the cast will remain the same, so Brent will be joining returning members Tan France, Karamo Brown, Antoni Porowski, and Jonathan Van Ness for Season 9. Brent's stepping into a pretty big role, not only because of the legacy of Queer Eye, but also because Berk was often considered to have the hardest job on the show, transforming entire home spaces in a matter of days. Below, learn more about Brent and the future of the show, plus everything we know about Berk's departure. Who Is Jeremiah Brent? Even if you didn't know Brent before the announcement, you're likely familiar with some of his projects (and/or with his husband). The interior designer and TV personality is married to fellow interior designer Nate Berkus, and the pair have done a number of design shows together, including TLC's Nate & Jeremiah by Design, HGTV's Nate & Jeremiah Save My House, and most recently HGTV's The Nate & Jeremiah Home Project. Brent and Berkus got married in 2014—making history as the first same-sex couple to hold their wedding at the New York Public Library—and they have two children, Poppy and Oskar. Power couple resume aside, Brent's design and TV background speaks for itself. He got his start as a styling associate to celebrity stylist Rachel Zoe on the Bravo series The Rachel Zoe Project. He also hosted the Emmy-winning design series Home Made Simple for the Oprah Winfrey Network and he was the design expert on Netflix’s Say I Do. Brent is also the founder of the full-service design firm Jeremiah Brent Design and lifestyle brand ATRIO. Not to mention, Brent was one of our designers for the 2018 Real Simple Home, so we're super excited to see him join the Fab Five for Season 9 of Queer Eye. Why Is Bobby Berk Leaving Queer Eye? While there is excitement surrounding the new addition to the Queer Eye cast, many fans were disappointed to hear about Berk's departure from the show. And Berk (who was one of the designers for the 2023 Real Simple Home) was definitely bummed about it too. On the social platform X (formally Twitter) in November, Berk posted a long thread announcing his exit and explaining how much the show meant to him. He started the thread by addressing it to the "Queer Eye Community who have become family to me," and ended it by saying: "It’s with a heavy heart that I announce that season 8 will be my final season on Queer Eye. It’s not been an easy decision to be at peace with, but a necessary one. Although my journey with Queer Eye is over, my journey with you is not. You will be seeing more of me very soon." As soon as Berk made the announcement, people started theorizing about his reasoning. There were rumors about an alleged feud between Berk and former co-star Tan France being the reason for Berk leaving. However, the designer addressed these in an interview with Vanity Fair, saying that he wanted to "extinguish some of the speculation" and that him and France "will be fine." The real reason behind Berk leaving the show, he explains in the interview, is that his contract was up (along with the rest of the cast members' seven-cycle contracts) and he had already mentally moved on from Queer Eye after filming Season 8. Netflix, however, decided to renew the series and offer each cast member a new four-cycle contract—which Berk declined. He also says that the other cast members considered doing the same, but in the end decided to move forward with the series. While Berk says that he was upset "for a second" at learning the show would be continuing on without him, he didn't want to give up on his plans for new personal projects ahead, which include expanding his design firm.

There’s a delightful twinge of nostalgia to be found in every snow day: as kids, filling these breaks in routine with fun, mood-boosting activities felt effortless. But for some adults, snow days can be daunting. Wintry weather presents scheduling conflicts, lengthy to-do lists riddled with shovels and rock salt, and for some, fodder for your winter blues. Maybe you’re living solo and looking to structure a day that maximizes your unexpected time off, or perhaps you’re a parent trying to plan activities that you and your children can enjoy together. “No matter your household, a snow day invites you to rest, reconnect, and find some magic in winter,” says psychotherapist Siobhan Chirico. Here are some tips on how to make the most of your next snow day, from Chirico and other mental health experts. Siobhan Chirico is a registered psychotherapist at VOICE Counseling & Education Services Lynn McCracken is a licensed professional counselor at InTune Wellness Center Jo Hayes is a lifestyle coach and the founder of Etiquette Expert 01 of 04 Spend Time Outside If you have young kids, a snow day is the perfect opportunity to get some fresh air as a family—and to revisit your own favorite childhood traditions, like sledding and snowball fights. And, according to mental health experts, adults without children should also feel empowered to play outside. Lynn McCracken, a licensed professional counselor, says she spent a recent snow day building a snowman on her own—and she recommends that anyone in search of a fun, fulfilling activity do the same. “It’s great exercise, it’s creative, and takes more grit than I thought it would,” she says. “This was a gratifying experience and made me feel like a kid again. It was invigorating being out in the cold, and I felt proud of my snowman.” Going outside on a snow day also gives you an opportunity to check up on your neighbors—especially elderly or disabled people in your community who are especially vulnerable to the consequences of bad weather, both physically and emotionally. “Offer to shovel someone else’s driveway,” suggests Jo Hayes, a lifestyle coach. “You’ll be helping them out, while giving your body some super-beneficial exercise and endorphins. It’s feel-good either way.” Similarly, snowy weather can make it even more difficult to muster enough energy to venture outside. But getting enough sunlight is key to treating seasonal blues, Chirico says. If the weather is too unpleasant to step out, she suggests you “sit by a bright window or use a light therapy lamp.” 02 of 04 Get Some Exercise If you’re working with limited outdoor space, or if getting hands-on with the snow just isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other ways to build some physical activity into your day. Lace up your sneakers or grab your exercise mat for a quick workout. “Gentle movements, like yoga or a short walk, can boost mood,” Chirico says. Research indicates1 that endorphins released during exercise are beneficial for mitigating the symptoms often associated with the winter blues. Find a form of physical activity you enjoy—and it doesn’t have to be a traditional “workout.” Dance to your favorite music, play fetch with your dog, or do some jumping jacks in front of the TV. 03 of 04 Bake Something New Snow days can be particularly difficult for the Type A personalities among us: If you’re struggling with the disruption to your routine and looking for a goal to reach, try whipping up some dessert. Not only will your labor pay off in the form of a tangible (and delicious) treat, but it can also provide a mental health boost. “Baking is a soothing and meditative activity,” Hayes says. “The super-easy nature of cookie baking, especially using premade dough, is a calming, endorphin-producing process—even before the sugar hits your bloodstream.” Baking is also a great activity for snowed-in families. Cookie recipes are pretty straightforward, so it’s easy for kids to get involved. Hayes recommends that parents “make an event of it” for some added festivity: Bust out a tablecloth and serve up some tea or hot chocolate for an afternoon snack. But if you’re not up for the extra pomp, don’t sweat it—go the simple route, with a quick beginner recipe or even a store-bought mix. 04 of 04 Practice Self-Care For some, the thought of a snow day “is the ultimate in cozy, restful comfort,” Hayes says. But, “for others, including those who feel lonely at the best of times, the day can feel especially isolating,” she adds. And parents—many of whom might still be expected to work remotely while their kids are home—can struggle to balance their own well-being with their other responsibilities. If snow day revelry doesn’t come naturally to you, make a concerted effort to work self-care into your schedule, wherever possible. “Turn your notifications off and dive into a book or a favorite show,” Chirico says. “A warm bath, an at-home spa treatment, or your favorite hobbies like baking, painting, or journaling can make the day feel restorative.”

When the weather outside is frightful, sometimes you want to indulge in a show that whisks you away to a tropical location—and other times, you want to lean into the chill. If you're the type who likes to cuddle up with a hot cocoa and chill with a wintry show that features plenty of snow and ice, we've got you covered. Check out some of the best snowy shows to watch right now. True Detective: North Country No need to binge your way through all the seasons—pick up this creepy detective series on Season 4. Jodie Foster and Kali Reis investigate an unsolved murder from the past, and a new horrific (and wild) group killing during the total darkness of winter in northern Alaska. This season feels like a mashup of Silence of the Lambs and the X-Files, with a little touch of Twin Peaks thrown in. Where to watch: Max A Murder at the End of the World An out-of-the-way (and absolutely gorgeous!) Icelandic retreat becomes the setting for a murder—and an amateur detective (played by The Crown's Emma Corrin) is there to solve it. Where to watch: Hulu Northern Exposure Want a lighter look at life way up north? This early 1990s fish-out-of-water show about a New York doctor sent to live in a tiny Alaskan town finally is available to binge—and filled with plenty of moose, too. Where to watch: Amazon Prime Society of the Snow This based-on-a-true-story movie follows the Uruguayan rugby team that crashed in the Andes—leaving 45 people to try to survive for more than two months in frigid temps. (Bonus: It's nominated for the best international film Oscar this year.) Where to watch: Netflix Yellowjackets If you want even more crashed passengers trying to survive in the wilderness, check out the series Yellowjackets. It swaps the men's rugby team for a teen girls' soccer team, and extends their stay in the wild to more than 19 months—then catches up with them as adults trying to deal with the aftermath of what happened. Where to watch: Paramount Plus Lilyhammer A New York mafioso (the Sopranos' Steven Van Zandt) enters the witness protection program and ends up in Norway in this fish-very-out-of-water tale that'll have you kind of wishing you were in Norway too—if only for those amazing sweaters! Where to watch: Netflix Fargo There's two ways to enjoy a little chilly murder in Fargo. You can watch the epic Oscar-winning movie with Frances McDormand's stellar turn as a very pregnant local sheriff investigating a string of murders around a kidnapping gone wrong. Or you can catch the anthology series inspired by its dark comedy murder vibe—including this season, which has several ties back to the original movie. Where to watch: Max (movie), Hulu (series) The Great This darkly comic show follows young Catherine as she marries Russia's Peter III, and the power plays she made to be crowned empress of Russia. There's eye candy galore—with plenty of snow and some incredible fur costumes, too. Where to watch: Hulu Doctor Zhivago The epic (and beloved) forbidden romance is set against the wintry tundras of Russia during the Russian Revolution and World War I. Where to watch: Tubi Game of Thrones The show that brought us the infinitely meme-able "Winter is coming" and the aptly named Jon Snow has plenty of frigid scenes in the northern climes—whether in the Stark's Winterfell castle or at the 700-foot ice wall along the Northern border. And the creepy White Walkers will definitely chill you, even in the midst of summer. Where to watch: Max 30 Days of Night Alaska's dark winters attract a gaggle of vampires to a tiny town in this creepy, wintry horror fest. Where to watch: Netflix Life Below Zero If you're looking for a long and true-to-life winter show, check out this National Geographic documentary series. They follow people who live at the outer edges of Alaska and document their stories over more than 20 seasons of shows. Where to watch: Disney+ Frozen & Frozen 2 Get the kids in on your winter binge watch! Create a Frozen fest (and sing-along) with everyone's favorite ice princess and comic relief snowman. And don't forget the marshmallows for the hot cocoa! Where to watch: Disney+ The Shining If you're snowed in, at least feel grateful that you're not stuck in a haunted hotel with a psychotic husband during a blizzard. Stephen King knows how to make cabin fever feel truly horrific. Where to watch: For rent on Apple TV Empire Strikes Back The second (and arguably best) Star Wars movie starts out on the frigid planet Hoth, where the Rebels risk death by frostbite or Yeti-like Wampas to escape the grasp of the Empire. The action heads to warmer climes—but freezing definitely comes into play at the end again. Where to watch: Disney+ Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind Would you be willing to forget a lost love? That's the premise of this offbeat romantic movie, where a scientist has hacked people's brains to erase painful memories—and Joel and Clementine both attempt to undergo the procedure—with very interesting results. Where to watch: The Criterion Channel Pretty Much Every Single Hallmark Movie Hallmark may be famous for its Christmas movies, but they have plenty of saccharine seasonal fare beyond the holidays, too. (Think A Winter Wedding, or Valentine in the Vineyard.) Where to watch: Hulu and Peacock TV

“Grabbing drinks” is an easy fallback for socializing. But if you’re trying to cut back on alcohol or know someone who doesn’t drink alcohol, then you may need to be a bit more creative when making plans. Thankfully, there are plenty of activities you can partake in completely sober. Visit a Board Game Cafe Grab a few friends and head to a local board game cafe. Many of them have a large variety of games to choose from (sometimes even hundreds!) and serve food and non-alcoholic beverages. There are board game cafes across the country, but if you can’t find one in your city, then consider hosting a game night at home. Host a Themed Dinner Party Brainstorm a unique theme and invite your friends over for a potluck dinner. For example, you could ask everyone to try making a particular type of cuisine, ask friends to bring their favorite food that starts with the first letter of their name, or cook something from a cookbook. Sign Up for an Art Class Get creative and sign up for an art class with a friend. You can look up studios, recreation centers, or even colleges in your area that offer classes like oil painting, watercolor, ceramics, jewelry making, and more. See a Comedy Show Check out a few local comedians in your area or a local mic night at a nearby comedy club. Some venues may have a minimum drink limit, and typically any type of beverage, such as a soda or mocktail, will satisfy the requirement. Join a Local League There’s a league for nearly everything these days! You can look for a league of a sport you enjoy, such as pickleball, or try a new hobby like backgammon or mahjong. Have a Wellness Day If you want to splurge, make an appointment at your favorite spa to get a massage or facial with your friends. Most spas will let you use their facilities after, so you can enjoy amenities such as pools, hot tubs, and saunas. Attend a Sporting Event If you already root for your favorite team, try getting tickets to a new type of sport. You may discover a newfound love of hockey, baseball, or soccer. Another great option? Check to see if your city has female sports teams, such as the WNBA, or support the female athletes at your local college. Try a New Type of Workout Trying something new is a fun way to bond with others, and larger cities offer some unconventional fitness classes, like puppy yoga. If you’ve tried every workout in your area, explore the outdoor terrain and hit a new hiking trail when the weather permits. Work on Your Golf Swing If you want to hone your craft, head to an indoor golf simulator to practice playing on a digitally replicated course. Or for something less serious, play a round of mini golf. Organize a Clothing Swap Party You’ll clean out your closet and get a few new (to you) items! Just invite your friends over for a swap party. Here’s how to throw one: Ask everyone to bring gently used clothing items, and people can exchange as they see fit.

Date night doesn't always have to mean going out on the town. Sometimes, staying in and spending some intentional quality time together can be just as fun. But the same old routine of ordering in and watching Netflix may not feel all that special. Well, you shouldn't underestimate the power of a good old board game or card game to make things a bit more interesting. Below, these seven two-player games for couples will have you and you partner talking, laughing, enjoying some friendly competition, and maybe even getting to know each other a bit better. 01 of 07 Mancala Starting simple, Mancala is a timeless game that you may or may not already have on hand. If you're unfamiliar, the game involves taking turns picking up marble stones and dropping them one at a time into the pockets on the board, trying to keep your turn going as long as possible to collect as many stones as you can. While a single game can go by pretty fast, it's one that you'll want to play over and over, giving both you and your partner the opportunity to start out and test new strategies. It's a low stress, relaxing game perfect for playing with your favorite drinks in hand and some music on in the background. 02 of 07 Bananagrams A more modern classic, Bananagrams is a simple word game that doesn't involve any paper, pencil, or board to play—just the banana-shaped pouch filled with letter tiles. Instead of trying to score the most points with high-scoring letters or words, the goal of the game is just to be the first player to use all your tiles. So, if you don't like games that require you to do math, Bananagrams is a good pick. It's also highly portable, so you can bring it with you on vacation or just keep it on hand for a rainy day. 03 of 07 We're Not Really Strangers Couples Edition We're Not Really Strangers is a get-to-know-you card game, but it'd more accurately be called a deck of conversation starters. While the original deck is suited for playing with almost anyone, the Couples Edition is specifically tailored to, you guessed it, couples. With questions like," What do we have in this relationship you never thought was possible?" you and your partner will be encouraged to open up and dig a bit deeper into the reasons you're together. 04 of 07 Codenames Duet If you and your partner love spy movies, then you'll love getting to play out a fantasy of sorts that will take you and your partner on a top-secret mission. The game is all about working together (a great skill in any relationship!), giving each other one-word clues to try to find all the secret agents on the board before the time runs out. 05 of 07 Hive If you'd prefer to compete against your partner (in a friendly way, of course), this bug-themed strategy game is a fun way to do so. The goal of the game is to surround your partner’s queen bee while trying to block your opponents from doing the same. You'll play with hexagon-shaped tiles that have depictions of different insects on them. Each insect has different rules for how it can be used and moved—similar to the rules for chess pieces—so the game will get your minds engaged. 06 of 07 Patchwork Patchwork is like the board game version of Tetris, with strategy and time management thrown in the mix. To play, both players take turns collecting buttons and pieces of a patchwork quilt, trying to find the right pieces to fit together. Each patch costs time and buttons (the currency of the game), so players will have to be strategic during the game's 30-minute playtime to come out on top. 07 of 07 The Fox in the Forest If you and your partner prefer card games and enjoy anything in the fantasy genre, The Fox in the Forest is worth checking out. It's a trick-taking card game with mystical illustrations and fairy tale characters. In the game, different character cards will have different abilities and advantages, and you'll score points by winning "tricks" against your opponent.

If holiday time means snuggling up with your favorite cozy blanket and watching a Christmas movie, we've got good tidings for you. Lifetime just released its holiday movie lineup and it is full of the heartwarming, romantic plotlines you adore. It's a Wonderful Lifetime will kick off on November 16, with a new original holiday movie premiering every Saturday and Sunday evening. Jennifer Love Hewitt, Tia Mowry, and Maria Menounos are just a few of the faces you can expect to see. You can view the 12 new movies live or the day after on-demand. Get a first look at the magical movie lineup ahead. 01 of 12 Christmas at Plumhill Manor Premieres: Saturday, November 16 at 8 p.m. EST Stars: Maria Menounos and Kyle Pryor When a rising New York architect unexpectedly inherits an English countryside manor, she travels across the pond to spend the holidays there, where she discovers a magical Christmas secret and a new romance. 02 of 12 Holiday in Happy Hollow Premieres: Sunday, November 17 at 8 p.m. EST Stars: Tamara Almeida and Cody Ray Thompson Soon after purchasing a small-town Christmas tree farm, a real estate developer discovers that small one-foot deeds of the farm were once raffled off to local families, who all hold sentimental ties to their share of the land. To move forward with her project, she must work with the town's historian to convince the families to give up their shares. 03 of 12 Christmas in the Spotlight Premieres: Saturday, November 23 at 8 p.m. EST Stars: Jessica Lord, Leith Wallschleger, Jeannie Mai, and Haley Kalil When a famous musician meets a pro football player (who publically announces he has a crush on said musician), sparks fly. But as their connection deepens, their busy, complicated reality sets in. The two must decide before the holidays end if their love is worth fighting for. 04 of 12 Sincerely, Truly Christmas Premieres: Sunday, November 24 at 8 p.m. EST Stars: Paula Brancati, Jake Epstein, and Howard Hoover After getting fired right before Christmas, an event planner makes a wish that surprisingly comes true. Using her newfound ability to hear what everyone wants for Christmas, she learns that to get her job back, she must bring a withdrawn one-hit-wonder out of retirement. But to get to him, she must first help an attractive realtor buy the perfect Christmas gift for his son. 05 of 12 BeBe Winans’ We Three Kings Premieres: Saturday, November 30 at 8 p.m. EST Stars: BeBe Winans, Bethany Brown, Lisa Berry, Faith Wright, Romeo Miller, and Deborah Joy Winans A retired musician now record store owner devises a plan to reunite his estranged daughters for Christmas. Back home for the first time since their mother's passing, the sisters soon find joy and love in the town they once tried to leave behind, and eventually realize that they're happiest when they're together. 06 of 12 Make or Bake Christmas Premieres: Sunday, December 1 at 8 p.m. EST Stars: Vivica A. Fox, Jackée Harry, Jasmine Aivaliotis, Landon Moss, and Corin Nemec With hopes of expanding her business, a lifestyle brand expert sends Emma, one of her best employees, to go undercover as a seasonal worker at a family-run bakery with the mission of convincing the owners to sell. Emma soon falls in love with the sweet bakery—and the owners' son who runs the shop. 07 of 12 A Very Merry Beauty Salon Premieres: Saturday, December 7 at 8 p.m. EST Stars: Tia Mowry, RonReaco Lee, Donna Biscoe, Cocoa Brown, and Ashli Auguillard The charitable owner of a beauty salon helps prepare for an annual ball where she will be honored. But when a wine brand co-sponsors the event, and the company's charming CEO arrives, the ball becomes a bit more extravagant than planned. The salon owner's mother, who is the head of the ball's committee, is concerned he will disrupt the event's traditions, but when the two are paired as dance partners, their attraction grows and Sienna questions her thoughts on love and family. 08 of 12 How to Fall in Love by Christmas Premieres: Sunday, December 8 at 8 p.m. EST Stars: Teri Hatcher and Dan Payne A writer turned CEO of a lifestyle brand makes one last-ditch effort to save her company by partnering with a popular dating app, where she must write a column on how to fall in love by Christmas—all, of course, with the help of a photographer who has been assigned to the story. 09 of 12 The Holiday Junkie Premieres: Saturday, December 14 at 8 p.m. EST Stars: Jennifer Love Hewitt and Brian Hallisay After her mother died, Andie must run The Holiday Junkie, a decorating and planning service, for the first time without her mom this Christmas—and it's nothing short of challenging. Along the way, she meets a charming house manager, who has a few secrets of his own. 10 of 12 Christmas on the Alpaca Farm Premieres: Sunday, December 15 at 8 p.m. EST Stars: Kirsten Comerford and Matt Wells Set on winning a Christmas competition that will award her her own sustainable fashion line, Jess, known as "the Queen of Christmas Sweaters" quits her cushy job at a luxury fashion label to team up with a struggling alpaca farmer, who is a single dad. Along the way, she finds love and brings Christmas cheer to the farm. 11 of 12 A Carpenter Christmas Romance Premieres: Saturday, December 21 at 8 p.m. EST Stars: Sasha Pieterse and Mitchell Slaggert Andrea, a beloved novelist, hints at killing off a character in her upcoming book, which causes her fanbase to riot. To clear her head and finish her book, she escapes to her family's farmhouse and ends up running into her ex-crush, Seth, who has been helping rebuild the town after a destructive fire. Andrea and Seth team up to help the town get their Christmas spirit back, which soon leads to growing feelings between them. 12 of 12 Engaged by Christmas Premieres: Sunday, December 22 at 8 p.m. EST Stars: Brittany Bristow and Marcus Rosner To save her relationship, Zoe writes to an advice columnist "Dear Adora" for help, but it ends up going south and her boyfriend dumps her before the holidays. She tracks down the columnist to confront her, only to find out that it is a man behind the column. Zoe threatens to reveal his identity unless he helps her turn things around by publicizing a few Christmas-themed events.

Meghan Markle is not just the people’s princess—she’s also an actress, businesswoman, and lifestyle connoisseur. Following her Netflix series Harry & Meghan, which documents the highs and lows of Meghan and Harry’s love story and their decision to leave the royal life behind, Markle is stepping back into the limelight to co-produce two Netflix series. Moreover, she’s tripling her efforts with the launch of her new lifestyle product collection, American Riviera Orchard. Read below for more details on Markle’s Netflix series and product collection, including the inspiration behind its name. What We Know About Meghan Markle’s New Netflix Show The Duke and Duchess of Sussex announced that they’re producing two non-fiction series with Netflix, the first of which will follow Markle as she cooks, gardens, and entertains. The series will be produced alongside Sony Pictures Television and the masterminds behind successful reality shows like Selena + Chef, The D’Amelio Show, and Chef’s Table. Markle and Chanel Pysnik will serve as the executive producers under Archewell Productions, which was co-founded by Harry and Meghan. The second series will place the spotlight on Prince Harry. Besides his role in the British royal family, the Duke of Sussex is also known for his expert equestrian skills and love for polo. In fact, Harry recently competed in a charity polo match to raise money for his foundation, Sentebale, which aims to provide comprehensive support for children and adults in South African countries. The series will primarily take place at the U.S. Open Polo Championship in Wellington, Florida, going behind the scenes to show what it takes to play this competitive sport. Ahead of both Netflix series launches, Markle will unveil her new lifestyle product collection, American Riviera Orchard. Markle’s New Lifestyle Brand: American Riviera Orchard Earlier this year, Markle posted a teaser of her new lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard. Although we don’t know too much about the product collection, an insider told Harper’s Bazaar that the line is “something rooted in her love of details, curating, hosting, life’s simple pleasures, and family.” We're imagining it's somewhere in between Gwyneth Paltrow’s Goop and Cravings by Chrissy Teigen. Everything from cookware and cutlery to jams and edible oils will be available, based on trademark applications that have been filed. You may be wondering what inspired Markle’s brand's name, American Riviera Orchard, and the answer is pretty simple: It reminds her of home. Prince Harry and Meghan currently reside in the coastal California city of Santa Barbara—also known as the "American Riviera"—with their two children, Archie and Lilibet. The city is known for its Mediterranean-inspired landscapes, sunny beaches, and quiet luxury aesthetic that has earned the city its "American Riviera" moniker. The mention of orchards may be a nod to the couple’s home in Montecito, which maintains one of the largest orchards in the Santa Barbara area. You can join the waitlist for Markle’s product line, so you can be among the first to learn when the collection finally launches.

As we wrap up 2023, some people are rushing to complete their ambitious reading goal for the year while others are simply trying to find time to finish that one book they've been reading for months. No matter what kind of reader you are, a new year is an opportunity to look forward to new book releases and set new goals for what you want to read in 2024. Whether you're hoping to read the latest novel from an author you already love or expand your horizons with something new, there are plenty of great books coming out next year. For ideas on what to add to reading list, below are the 2024 book releases we're most excited about. 01 of 15 Greta & Valdin by Rebecca Reilly This sibling story is being billed for fans of Schitt's Creek and Sally Rooney's Normal People. Rebecca Reilly's Greta & Valdin follows a sister and brother (the titular characters) as they navigate queerness, multi-racial identity, and the messy dramas of their Maaori-Russian-Catalonian family. It's already an international best-seller in New Zealand, but it's set to release in the U.S. in February. 02 of 15 Splinters by Leslie Jamison From a writer who's been compared to greats like Joan Didion and Susan Sontag, Leslie Jamison's first memoir is sure to be a worthwhile and thought-provoking read. In Splinters, Jamison covers the story of her life after divorce alongside her experience with motherhood, art, and new love. The book is set to release in February. 03 of 15 Wandering Stars by Tommy Orange Tommy Orange is a Pulitzer Prize-finalist and author of There There, his bestselling first novel. Wandering Stars offers a follow-up to his beloved debut, meeting the characters where they left off and tracing their stories back to the Sand Creek Massacre of 1864 and the Carlisle Indian Industrial School. The novel winds readers through the interconnected stories of three generations of a Native American family, highlighting the institutional violence that follows their bloodlines. 04 of 15 There’s Always This Year by Hanif Abdurraqib Basketball is at the center of this memoir from Hanif Abdurraqib, who grew up in Columbus, Ohio, in the 1990s—the golden era of the game. There’s Always This Year weaves together personal storytelling and reflections on success, what it means to make it, and the notion of role models. Abdurraqib is also the author of the National Book Award finalist A Little Devil in America. His new book is set to release in March. 05 of 15 You Like It Darker by Steven King Classic horror fans will want to add this new Stephen King release, coming out in May, to their list. You Like It Darker is a collection of 12 stories, including tales that follow a psychic flash that upends lives, a grieving widower who receives an unexpected inheritance with strings attached, and a Vietnam vet who answers a job ad that leads to some dark twists. 06 of 15 Margo's Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe This June 2024 release has already been picked up for an A24 film adaptation by both Nicole Kidman as well as Elle and Dakota Fanning’s production companies. Margo’s Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe, releasing in June, follows the story of Margo Millet who, after enrolling in junior college has an affair with her English professor, gets pregnant, and develops a plan to get cash by starting an OnlyFans account. 07 of 15 Where Sleeping Girls Lie by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé This new novel from Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé, the New York Times-bestselling author of Ace of Spades, is a great choice for fans of young adult mystery. The story follows Sade Hussein, the new girl at a prestigious boarding school who discovers dark secrets after her roommate disappears. The book is set to release in March. 08 of 15 Rebel Girl by Kathleen Hanna Fans of female-fronted punk bands of the '80s and '90s will want to scoop this new memoir from Kathleen Hanna, front woman of Bikini Kill, Le Tigre, and Julie Ruin. The memoir, out in May, will follow Hanna's story from childhood through her college years, on to her life as a performer and her battle with Lyme disease. 09 of 15 Anita de Monte Laughs Last by Xochitl Gonzalez Anita de Monte Laughs Last, out in March, is a new novel from Xochitl Gonzalez, the New York Times-bestselling author of Olga Dies Dreaming and a 2023 Pulitzer Prize finalist. Her forthcoming book follows Raquel, a first-generation Ivy League art student, who uncovers the work of a female artist (Anita de Monte) decades after her mysterious death. The story goes back and forth in time to tell the stories of both woman, interweaving their experiences. 10 of 15 Like Love: Essays and Conversations by Maggie Nelson If you're a fan of Maggie Nelson's work, including the books Bluets and The Argonauts, this essay collection will give you a more intimate view into her life and mind. The essays are drawn from twenty years of the author's work and cover a wide range of topics, from love and friendship, feminist and queer issues, and even other artist subjects, from Prince to Kara Walker. The collection of essays is set to release in April. 11 of 15 Be a Revolution by Ijeoma Oluo Ijeoma Oluo is the #1 New York Times–bestselling author of So You Want to Talk About Race—which provides readers with a vital guide to discussing issues of race and racism—and Mediocre, which discusses the impact of white male supremacy on American culture and history. Now, with Be A Revolution: How Everyday People are Fighting Oppression and Changing the World—and How You Can, Too, Oluo highlights the ways in which people already are and can enact positive change in American institutions. Be A Revolution is out in January—and it's a perfect read to reference as you make your New Year goals. 12 of 15 The House of Hidden Meanings by RuPaul Drag Race fans, this one's for you. The House of Hidden Meanings (out in March) is a more stripped down look at the international drag superstar RuPaul's life. The memoir follows the now pop culture icon when he was growing up Black, poor, and queer in a broken home and illustrates how discovering the power of performance and self-acceptance led him to where he is now. 13 of 15 Grief is for People by Sloane Crosley Sloane Crosley's memoir Grief is for People explores multiple kinds of loss following the death of the author's closest friend to suicide. For a book with such a heavy subject matter, the memoir (out in February) is being billed as a category-defying story that is witty, darkly funny, and a challenge of our notions of mourning during grief-stricken times. 14 of 15 Victim by Andrew Boryga Victim, the debut novel by Andrew Boryga out in March, is a satire about a hustler from the Bronx who uses his on story of hardships to cash in on identity politics and get closer to his dream of becoming a famous writer. Xochitl Gonzalez, writer previously featured on this list, reviewed the book, saying: “You will burn through Victim and find your hands scalded when you are done. It’s not just because of the tight, engaging prose and pitch perfect voice of our narrator, Javier—but because no one is innocent in this stinging satire that turns everything about meritocracy and success on its head. Boryga pulls no punches, and leaves you alternating rolling with laughter and cringing as a result.” 15 of 15 Martyr! by Kaveh Akbar Kaveh Akbar's Martyr! follows the story of a newly sober orphaned son of Iranian immigrants who embarks on a journey to uncover a family secret, all while guided by the voices of artists, poets, and kings. Tommy Orange, another writer featured earlier on in this list, calls Akbar one of his "favorite writers ever."

In her New York Times bestselling memoir, This Will Only Hurt a Little, Busy Philipps proudly asserts one of her more singular qualities. “I’m sparkly,” she says, explaining how she got into college. (She delivered her application by hand.) We agree there’s something fizzy and lovely and dazzling about her. The multihyphenate landed her first major role on the cult-classic comedy-drama TV series Freaks and Geeks and joined the cast of Dawson’s Creek during its fifth season. You may have seen her on Cougar Town, in movies like White Chicks and I Feel Pretty, and memorably as the “cool mom” in this year’s movie-musical reboot of Mean Girls. She deftly embodies Summer, one quarter of an aggressively clueless quartet in the sitcom Girls5eva. Except she’s anything but clueless. She is whip-smart and really shines on Instagram, where her 2.4 million followers hang on to every soul-baring post—whether about her latest haircut, her ADHD, her kids, a garage sale with her ex-husband (“who we love,“ she says), or rights for LGBTQ+ youth or reproductive freedom. When it was time for our interview, we were led to a windowless conference room at the studio where the photo shoot would later take place. Philipps found us a spot outside instead. “I love bright light,” she says. “It just has to be superbright wherever I am.” In keeping with our June 2024 issue's theme, we went outside to sit in the sun, chat, and sparkle. REAL SIMPLE: We have to start with your Instagram. It’s famous, and The New Yorker even called you “the breakout star of Instagram Stories.” What do you think draws people to you and your account? BUSY PHILIPPS: I started using it in 2016 in this way that made the most sense to me: to be very open and transparent with my life and what I was experiencing. Anytime I was profiled by a magazine, it would be up to a journalist to get across who I was, and it always fell short of the complexity of who I think I am and, honestly, who everybody is. With Instagram, I was able to show all sides of myself, and it was incredibly freeing. I also found so much connection. I spent so much of my life feeling alone in my thoughts and feelings, afraid to share them because I thought they made me weird or different. And then, here I am on this big platform, and people from all over the world are reaching out, saying, “Not only do I get it, I feel the exact same way about these things.” RS: How do you approach something you're not good at? BP: With a lot of curiosity! I’m not good at math, and I choose to not do it. It’s not my journey. I started playing tennis when I was 40. I realized, when it was challenging, that I would grip too tight. And sometimes with pottery, when I'm at the wheel and it's not going well, I can get into a place where I want to force it, and that’s when it's not going to work. So I have to kind of let it go a little bit, and then it will sort of fall into place. It’s an ongoing lesson. RS: That’s such a great metaphor! What do you say to yourself when your inner critic isn’t being super kind? BP: I always return to You’re doing the best you can. And also the thing that’s cropped up on TherapyTok and that my therapist has said before, which is You did the best you could with the tools you had at the time. It’s a great reminder to let things go—not without taking responsibility or acknowledging how you may be able to do better in the future, but at least giving yourself a bit of a break. That being said, it’s hard. RS: It’s like your podcast, Busy Philipps Is Doing Her Best. That’s also our motto around the REAL SIMPLE office! And it’s important to remember that we’re always evolving. BP: I would hope that we’re able to be people in progress, and that we’re able to adjust and change when new information is brought to us. I'm fascinated by this turn of people digging their heels in and thinking they know the answers to everything. That seems like an impossible way to live. It doesn't allow for the reality of what the world is, and it leads to so much unnecessary strife—to not be malleable and to not be willing to say that you don't have the answers for everything. RS: How do you deal with the external critics? BP: I know people get really bogged down by what others think of them. The truth is, other people aren’t actually really thinking that much about you. And if they are, what they think about you has to do with them, not you. I did a weeklong therapy retreat in 2021, and there’s this exercise they do. You openly identify whether your first impression of someone was negative or positive, and then figure out what it’s about. I was dreading it. I said to my teacher, “I don’t want to do this exercise. It's going to really bum me out; everyone is going to have something about me. I’m a lightning rod!” It did hurt my feelings. But then it was fascinating. Hearing them say, “I felt this way about you, and it’s because you reminded me of this person,” or “I'm afraid that you being loud takes focus away from me.” And ultimately, we discussed how, sometimes, there are societal things that are ingrained in all of us—deeply misogynistic ideas that both men and women hold about what a woman should be like when they walk into a room of strangers. RS: Say more therapy things. BP: Well, there’s a lot of work on patterns. It’s important to be able to identify what they are and then be able to identify, Is this keeping me safe? Or Is this hindering my connection or my ability to be myself? Or Am I going to leave this interaction feeling bad, with a personality hangover the next day? RS: A personality hangover! BP: It’s a Paula Pell phrase, and it’s so genius. I’ve definitely had moments when I wake up the next day and I’m like, Oh my God, did I talk too much at that dinner? Should I have been quieter? Should I have not fought back so hard with that person about whatever it was? As soon as she said it, I was like, Oh, I get those all the time! I think women especially get them. RS: Speaking of friends, Paula Pell is on Girls5eva with you. You seem to be the kind of person who collects friends from every chapter of your life. Discuss! BP: I’m always in interviews where they’re like, “Talk to us about your long friendship with Michelle Williams.” I don’t know. We’re friends! What is so hard for people to understand? What is so hard about people maintaining friendships? For me, it’s not enough to just say, “Hey, checking in,” or to just tell people that I’m great. I was at a birthday party on a Sunday in the middle of the day, and I got pretty deep for 35 minutes with a friend about some real stuff. And, I don’t know, I’m just not afraid of that. Things are complicated. I also like listening to people, so I ask questions. I’m always astonished when people don’t ask more questions. RS: Here’s your next one, then: You just joined the American Civil Liberty Union’s Artist Ambassador Program to advocate for reproductive freedom. What do you want to say to our readers? BP: I think that so many people, myself included, can fall for the trick of apathy, especially now. It feels so overwhelming. There are so many things, on top of the fact that we’re just trying to parent our children, make sure they’re safe, hopefully make sure our health needs are taken care of, or our friends’ or our sisters’ or our mothers’ or whatever. Then there’s all this nasty rhetoric, and we’re just inundated. It can really take me to a dark place, where I’m like, It doesn’t matter what I do. It doesn’t matter what any of us do. It’s just going to be terrible. And I think it’s important to remember that’s not true. It’s important what we do. It’s the small things. It’s paying attention to who is being elected to the school board, because those are the people who are banning books. Or paying attention to who your comptroller is. Or how the districts are being drawn in your cities. All these things are super important—not just the presidential candidates. I’m continually trying to remember that myself and encourage other people to find ways to go small, to think, to be participatory in their own neighborhoods and communities. What’s the saying? “You judge a society based on how they treat the most vulnerable among them.” RS: Right. And how are we doing? BP: We’re doing the worst job right now. But just because a lot of people are doing a terrible job doesn’t mean we can’t try to make things different. It’s not how I want to live, and it’s not how I want to raise my children. I can’t shut off the fact that we live in a society where everyone needs to be participatory. You cannot be singularly focused on yourself, and you have to be tolerant of other people’s beliefs. RS: You talk a lot about the importance of sharing our stories. Why’s that? BP: People’s hearts and minds are changed by storytelling. They’re changed by hearing other people’s experiences. If you don’t have access to seeing someone else’s lived experience, then it’s very easy to shut down and not be empathetic. Storytelling engenders empathy and the idea—the correct idea—that we are more alike than we are different. I really believe that it ends up being beneficial for everybody. RS: Your kids seem amazing, by the way. What’s something you’ve learned about them or as a parent? BP: They’re awesome. Birdie is almost 16. And Cricket is 11. I’m learning that I don’t have all the answers. And that I have to be able to put my own s—t down because they deserve their own experience that’s not mine. I’m definitely a different kind of mom. I’m a little weird, and I’m just trying to figure it out as I go along. Most parents don’t do what I do for a living. My kids have a wildly different experience from their friends, and sometimes they hate it. And I don’t blame them. RS: You’re now on QVC+ with a new late-night show, Busy This Week. Congrats! It’s still a struggle for women in late-night television, huh? BP: Thanks! You know, if there’s not a seat at the table, you’ve just got to build a whole new table. It’s annoying that there’s not a seat at the table. But listen, we’ve got to find ways to build new tables. And QVC was very down to try something new, which is rare in this industry. RS: Love that. The show puts an emphasis on how we’re all busy and also on shopping, which brings up a two-part question. First: being busy! How do you prioritize your time? BP: I don’t know if I’m good at it, honestly. I used to be really inflexible about certain things. This morning, I woke up early and got coffee. I was supposed to work out and then come here, but I really started to get into this pitch I’m working on. I decided to give myself a break and do that. I used to have this mindset like, If I miss one workout, everything will fall apart. It was just this perfectionist thing. I’m glad I’m not like that anymore because, honestly, I got all this work stuff done, and now I just have two little parts I have to finish. RS: Yay! Second: What kind of shopping are you best at? BP: I love all kinds of shopping. All of it. RS: Same, Busy. Same.

Jennifer Hudson should be a diva. She has every claim, with arguably the greatest singing voice on the planet, a coveted EGOT (she’s won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony), and illustrious friends, like Oprah and the Obamas, to name just the Os. There are rumors of romance with a famous beau, and she even has a celeb-y nickname, JHud. By all standards, Jennifer has a right to be high-maintenance and aloof. What she actually is: a hustler who’s so sweet and solicitous, you almost worry about her. Audiences first met her nearly 20 years ago as the R&B savant who should’ve won American Idol. Her clapback was to take home perhaps the most unanimously agreed-upon Best Supporting Actress Oscar in history, for her turn as Effie White in 2006’s Dreamgirls. In 2008, she faced an unspeakable family tragedy, losing her mother, brother, and nephew at once. She kept singing, launching a solo music career that would earn her two gold records and feature collabs with top talents, like Alicia Keys, Pharrell Williams, and Bono. More films followed, including the role your kids know her for: Young Nana, a caftan-clad sheep crooning a gorgeous Beatles cover in the 2016 hit animated musical Sing. And just last year, she threw her hat into the infamously tough daily-talk-show ring. Despite a crowded field of newcomers and the learning curve that can come with new launches, The Jennifer Hudson Show welcomed a stream of A-list guests like Vice President Kamala Harris, and received six daytime Emmy nominations. All in its first season—a testament to the power of Jennifer’s brand of charisma. And her hustle. Jennifer shows up ready to work, whether work means taping back-to-back hour-long shows, singing at the White House’s first major Juneteenth celebration, or opening her Chicago home to a big group of her 14-year-old son David’s friends. It was in that city, when she was getting her start at gay clubs around town, that the should-be diva honed her makeup skills. (Yes, she can do her own glam. Search for the video of her applying a cat-eye, if you doubt.) Jennifer walks to Starbucks each morning, often with David, for her cuppa. Weekdays on the Warner Bros. lot, you may see her riding her bike from her office to the studio, backpack on. One daily indulgence is to sit on a bench in the sun and look at the mountains. She and I met up in Los Angeles in June to talk about many things—including how she resets for fall. This is a big one for her, as she returns to the talk show grind with a lot to prove in her sophomore season, as her son starts his freshman year of high school, as she juggles his schedule and hers, as her life–like all of ours—somehow gets busier than ever. LAUREN IANNOTTI: So, where to start? Do anything cool for Juneteenth? JENNIFER HUDSON: Well, I sang at the White House for the first Juneteenth there. It was absolutely amazing. Historic. LI: You went with your son and a troop of his buddies. Why that entourage? JH: I want my son to be a part of those things—and his cousins and friends. Little David has a really big heart, and he always wants to include them. So I said, “I’ll sing, but I have to bring my boys.” And I told the guys, “When you all get old and you have children, you’re going to say, ‘I was there for the first Juneteenth.’” And to be able to sing for it—that’s something I will never forget. Video placeholder image LI: Speaking of accomplishments, congrats on your talk show being renewed! How does it feel, as you kick off season two? JH: Thank you! I feel like the show is every bit of who I am and how I connect with people. The only difference is the cameras are rolling. I want it to be a platform where everyone can sit on the couch and tell their story and be celebrated. Everyone has a superpower, a talent—not only playing an instrument or acting or dancing or singing, but whatever you’re passionate about. I get to be around people who specialize in something. And because they’re so into what they’re into, I’m intrigued. LI: People who are passionate are the best. JH: It’s all about the passion and the love for what you do. Everybody’s got a story. No matter who you are, what you’ve done, where you’re from, I’m interested. And if ain’t nobody else cheering you on, Jennifer Hudson is. That’s what I want the world to know. LI: I love that daytime talk shows are dominated by Black women, and it seems like hosts are bringing their true selves to their shows. JH: Yes, that’s what time we’re in. People want to see real things. And I think that’s the most beautiful thing. We’ve all been sugarcoating and hiding, but when we share, it helps us know we’re not alone. LI: You had Chaka Khan on last season, and she told you she was proud of you. And you replied, “Yes, ma’am. I’m listening.” You’re deeply accomplished, but you also bring this modesty, this respect for others to what you do. JH: I think it’s so important for people to know you can be humble and still achieve things. When I get to talk to Chaka Khan, and all these other people I’ve looked up to, it’s OK to give them their flowers and pay respect. That doesn’t take away from your own greatness. And just because you’ve achieved so many things, it don’t make you better than no one else. My mother used to write us letters, and I found one that said, “It’s beautiful, all the things you’ve accomplished, but what I’m most proud of is the human you are and how you treat your fellow man.” The awards on my wall don’t amount to who I am at all as a person. When I meet anybody, I want to meet your human, and I want you to see mine. LI: Tell me about your foundation. JH: My sister and I started the Julian D. King Gift Foundation in honor of my late nephew and dedicated it to him, my mother, and my brother. It’s how we stay connected to them. It gives back to the youth of Chicago, making sure they have their school supplies. Kids shouldn’t have to worry about where their book bag going to come from, if people going to laugh at their shoes, or if they don’t have the tools they need to learn. We've had parents that say, it was either pay my rent or buy my kids school supplies. We also do a holiday toy drive. We want the kids to know: Your positivity is highlighted and we encourage it and we support you all to keep going. LI: So you’re running this foundation, taping the show, producing, promoting, doing TV appearances and film cameos, and you’re a single mom. What do you do for yourself? JH: We sometimes forget about ourselves. I was just at home, and I was like, “I got this big old house, but the only space I have in it is my bedroom.” That’s like life: We give so much to everybody that we end up, as women and mothers, in a little corner of our own lives. Why not give ourselves space, grace, compassion, and consideration? That’s something I’m working on. I’m always trying to get better at life. My mother used to say, "Where there's a will, there is a way." And a lot of times, when I do get stuck—whether I'm stressed, I'm scared, I'm tired, whatever—I ask myself, "What would my mama say? What would she do?" That helps me. And then sometimes you got to say, I can't do it today. Meet yourself where you are. We can do that for everyone else. Sometimes you have to stop and consider yourself. And that's the phase that I'm in. I can't say I've always been that way, but I'm older now. I also make a point to have my David walks. A little walk in the morning with my son to Starbucks. It helps me gather myself by finding even little moments, because everything is in little small windows. It's stealing the mini vacations for yourself. I’d like a real one, though. One of my birthday wishes, when I turned 40, was to have a one week off. I'm still waiting for that and I'm about to be 42. LI: You mean you haven't had one week off straight in two years?! JH: My poor phone is stressed because it's like, “Dang, she ain't even turn me off.” LI: Stressing out your phone, man. I hesitate to ask what’s next. JH: I’m going to do an album soon. I’m doing a talk show, but that does not mean I’m going to stop singing or acting. It’s my passion to do all of these things. LI: Do you sleep? JH: You have to! I hit the ground running every day. I don’t sit down until the day is done and the work is done. I’m going to live it to the fullest because I’m grateful for that day. So I feel like I earned my right to sleep. I’m not a napper, but if Jenny naps, baby, I’m tired! LI: Since your show goes on hiatus in the summer, does it feel like you’re back to school in the fall? JH: David and I joke that we’re both starting a new school year! My son has a busy schedule, and I love to be there for him, so I’m learning how to juggle this newness. It used to be I’d hold your hand and take you to the park. Now it's like, how do I mother you? Figuring that out. And how do we exist in this new space? LI: What’s it like raising a Black teenage son in this country right now? JH: My son goes to a predominantly white school, and he has giant hair, a whole afro. He loves to walk in there with the big old ’fro and the pick in his hair. And I’m like, “Do you realize the statement you’re making? Know that just wearing your hair like that is a statement alone.” He’s very rooted in who he is and OK with that. Being a mom of a Black son, you have to make him conscious of and aware of certain things—who he is within the world. And there’s so many layers he has to learn! But he’s at an age where he can fully understand it. And he’s so evolved beyond what I could ever imagine. LI: What are your non-negotiables as a parent? JH: Well, I'm blessed—he's a good kid. As all my boys know, you got to know how to act and behave. The more responsible you show to be, then the more you're allowed to do. For little David, my biggest thing is getting his priorities in order. Knowing education comes first, clean your room, and help take care of home. Learn how to help out and contribute. Those are things that he is learning. LI: How is dating as a single mom? JH: My mom didn’t believe in having just anybody around her children, and I’m the same way. I’m extra careful and cautious. I also know that, as a kid, you don't want to see your mama with nobody. So I'm very sensitive to that. It took a long time to date. Because obviously, my focus has been on my child. It's always about the energy of who you're bringing into your circle. I'm very funny and sensitive about those things. LI: Is there anybody you’re thinking about now? Common. I’m asking about Common. JH: I’ll leave that where it is. LI: Fair. Here’s a super REAL SIMPLE question: Is there anything you have too much of? Anything you need to declutter or organize? JH: I don't know why I want to say socks, because I can't ever find the match to the sock. We just traveled here and I'm always cold when we fly, so I got to have socks in my purse. I sleep in them. So I want to say socks, but the hard part is when you lose the match to the sock. It's so upsetting when you find your favorite sock and then you can't find the other one. LI: Right?! Last question: It’s been 20 years since Idol. What advice would you give to your younger self? JH: “Don’t let anyone interrupt your faith.” The people who say, “But what if…?” Don’t listen to them. When people discourage your dream, it’s only because they don’t dream as big as you do. LI: That’s great advice. Thank you for your vibrant energy. Anything else you want to talk about? JH: Mr. Common—Rashid is what we call him—he is a beautiful, beautiful, beautiful man. And that’s all I will say.

Fall is the ideal season for cozying up with a big blanket and a mug of something warm, with back-to-back episodes of a comfort show on TV. While the idea of a "comfort show" may vary from person to person—for some of us it's a family-friendly drama and for others it's a murder mystery—there are certain shows that simply evoke that cozy feeling of fall. Naturally, the weather and setting in the show have a lot to do with this—but so does the lighting, color-grading, and plot. (Spooky or Halloween-themed shows also fit into our fall-appropriate watchlist.) Below, find our list of the best shows that will help you welcome in the season. Gilmore Girls We'll start with the most obvious pick on the list. Gilmore Girls is set in a quaint Connecticut town, where everybody knows everybody—and where it's seemingly fall pretty much all year round. The series follows mother-daughter/bestie duo Lorelai and Rory Gilmore as they navigate family, friendship, and romantic relationships. It's charming, heart-warming, and easy to watch for hours and hours. Friday Night Lights Fall is also football season, which makes Friday Night Lights a perfect fit for this list—but you don't need to be a sports fan enjoy this drama. Set in rural Texas, the series is just as much about the issues facing small town America, as it is about a football team working to win the state championship. Plus, the show features a number of big actors, like Connie Britton, Jesse Plemons, Minka Kelly, and Michael B. Jordan. Stranger Things Inspiring one of the most popular Halloween costumes of 2016, Stranger Things is the perfect series for a fall watch (or rewatch). Aside from Season 3, which takes place in the summertime, the series is primarily set in the fall, in the supernaturally cursed town of Hawkins, Indiana. Put on this kid-led thriller series for government conspiracies, spooky science fiction, adolescent akwardness, and '80s nostalgia. Big Little Lies We don't actually know what season it is in Big Little Lies—but it seems like it's usually sweater weather in the beach town of Monterey, California. The series follows a star-studded cast of mothers in upper-class society, played by Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman, Laura Dern, Zoe Kravitz, and Shailene Woodley. The show offers murder mystery, suburban scandal, and some gorgeous views from some seriously high-dollar beachside properties. The Haunting of Hill House If you're in the mood for something a bit spookier, The Haunting of Hill House is a perfect show to watch on or around Halloween. It follows five adult siblings who grew up in a haunted house—with chilling flashbacks to their childhood experiences with the paranormal. If you like ghost stories, then give this a try, but just be prepared that you may end up sleeping with the lights on. This Is Us If you need a good cry—and reflection on life, loss, and family—This Is Us can deliver. The series is an emotional family drama, starring Mandy Moore and Milo Ventimiglia as the parents of a unique set of triplets. The show takes place largely in the present, but flashes-back to show important moments of the characters' lives. And if you're wondering what makes this family drama feel like fall, it's, in part, the repeated importance of the Thanksgiving episodes throughout the show's six seasons. Only Murders in the Building This NYC-based murder mystery is a more lighthearted take on the genre, starring comedy greats Steve Martin and Martin Short, alongside Selena Gomez. The unlikely trio, who live in the same Upper West Side apartment building, team up to investigate a murder and produce a podcast. The weather is always a bit nippy on this show, and Gomez's character, Mabel, has a large collection of coats sure to provide serious fall fashion inspo. Buffy the Vampire Slayer While the show takes place in the fictional town of Sunnydale, California, the gloomy lighting and supernatural adventures make this '90s cult classic a perfect choice to add to your October watchlist. Buffy the Vampire Slayer follows Sarah Michelle Gellar in her breakout role as the titular character, as she tackles evil forces and high school drama alike. Twin Peaks Set in the fictional town of Twin Peaks, Washington, with moody lighting abound, this eerie drama is perfect for watching in the fall (even if most of the show takes place in the winter). David Lynch's 1989 surrealist series follows FBI Agent Dale Cooper (Kyle MacLachlan) as he tries to solve the murder of high schooler Laura Palmer—and several other mysteries along the way. If not for the eccentric characters and maze-like plot, Twin Peaks is worth a watch for the striking visuals alone. Chilling Adventures of Sabrina If you were a fan of the Sabrina the Teenage Witch, you're going to love this reimagined take on the 90s classic. Chilling Adventures of Sabrina will take you through Sabrina Spellman's origin story as a half-witch, half-mortal. The Netflix original explores how Sabrina navigates her life as a "normal" teenager all while standing up against the dark forces that threaten her town. Bates Motel Get a good dose of the heebie-jeebies this season with Bates Motel. A contemporary prequel to the 1960s Alfred Hitchcock classic Psycho, it depicts the lives of Norman Bates and his mother Norma before the events portrayed in the film in a modern-day setting. Starring critically-acclaimed actors Vera Farminga and Freddie Highmore, Bates Motel is sure to have you on the edge of your seat. Charmed Get utterly spellbound this fall with the beloved binge-able series Charmed. After the tragic death of their mother, three sisters—Phoebe, Piper, and Prue—discover they are witches. Follow along as they learn to use their powers to fight evil in their city of San Francisco while balancing their jobs, relationships, and friends. The Twilight Zone Enjoy the ultimate spooky throwback with the irreplaceable The Twilight Zone. Though this iconic series started 65 years ago, it absolutely stands the test of time. From creepy talking dolls to possessed mannequins, The Twilight Zone is a fantastic watch for a chilly fall night. With five seasons to binge, you're sure to be sucked in to this anthology series. Want something a little more modern? Check out the trailer for Jordan Peele's remake of the classic show from 2019.

The Last of Us has become the latest must-see TV show, with its powerful depiction of post-apocalyptic life after a dangerous fungus infects most of civilization. But if you can't get enough of creepy zombies or creative ways to wipe people off the planet, there are a ton of great movies and TV shows just a click away. Check out a few of our favorites that hit the same notes—whether you're looking to up the creep factor or even find a post-apocalyptic comedy to enjoy. Zombie Movies and TV Shows Zombies have been employed in movies and shows in all kinds of delightfully diabolical ways—whether they drag along or zip at superhuman speeds. All of Us Are Dead What happens when zombies hit a high school? Last year's top-rated Netflix show, All of Us Are Dead, gives us a horrifying glimpse, filled with emotional tearjerkers, grisly zombie gore, and crazy turning scenes that will make your jaw drop (can we take a moment to appreciate the insanely flexible zombie extras?) Watch on: Netflix Kingdom This Netflix predecessor to All of Us Are Dead takes place in a more medieval setting (16th-century Joseon, to be exact), but the special effects are nowhere near medieval. The story follows the Prince of Joseon, who attempts to investigate the "mysterious illness" plaguing the King, only to realize he's turned into a freaking zombie! As all zombie infections do, it spreads, and he finds himself caught in the middle of a deadly epidemic, all the while trying to stop his political opponents from seizing the throne. It's the political thriller-zombie horror fusion you never knew you needed. Watch on: Netflix World War Z Brad Pitt helps investigate what brought on a surge of terrifyingly fast zombies in a post-apocalyptic world. Watch on: Paramount+ Black Summer The structure of Black Summer is a bit atypical (albeit good) in that it shows disjointed, out-of-order timeline vignettes that eventually come together into a cohesive storyline. It features a whole lot of interesting characters, but fair warning that you really shouldn't get too attached to any of them. Watch on: Netflix The Walking Dead A zombie roundup simply wouldn't feel complete without this classic series, which wrapped its story in late 2022. Serving up horror, tears, laughs, and more with each episode, the show follows a group of survivors fighting their way through the treacherous, zombie-infested remains of what was once the United States. You can binge your way through the entire 11 seasons of Walking Dead now. Watch on: Netflix Night of the Living Dead If you haven't watched the horror classic, now's the time to get acquainted, as a strange burst of radiation turns the newly dead into zombies that feast on human flesh. Watch on: HBO Max, Paramount+ Train to Busan You've probably heard this movie reference scattered throughout All of Us Are Dead. Undeniably South Korea's top zombie flick of all time, it revolves around a man and his estranged daughter who become trapped on a speeding train during a rapidly spreading zombie outbreak in South Korea. Blood and gore aside, it's also packed with a lot of heart as the family tries to mend their broken relationship whilst fighting for survival—tears will most definitely ensue. Watch on: Tubi, Pluto TV Warm Bodies Want to quench your inner romantic and zombie craving in one go? Based on the famous book (which, BTW, is hands-down the most emotional and beautifully worded story about a raging zombie apocalypse you'll ever read), the plot revolves around a mentally astute zombie named R who can experience people's memories when he eats their brains. R falls in love with a human, and becomes more human himself in the process. If the survivalist and romance aspect isn't enough to keep you captivated, R's dry sense of humor and quirky perspective on life definitely will. Watch on: Peacock Game of Thrones Hear us out: The White Walkers—who appear on the show from very first scene— are the Westeros version of zombies. This may be the perfect show to watch if you want a lot of intrigue (and a healthy dose of sex, violence, and dragons) to go with your undead. Watch on: HBO Max Apocalyptic Movies and TV Shows The end of the world makes for epic storytelling—and these post-apocalyptic stories are definitely worth a watch (or a rewatch). Station Eleven Ten years after a virus decimates the world's population, a band of artists travels to bring Shakespeare and music to the small pockets of survivors in this artful adaptation of Emily St. John Mandel's best-selling novel. Where to watch: HBO Max Buffy the Vampire Slayer If you want a story that takes you to the brink of apocalypse time and time again, look no further than the girl who "saved the world a lot. " Buffy (and her crew of friends) are constantly battling demons, vampires, and yes—even zombies, once—to help stave off the constant threat of apocalypse that comes from living on a Hellmouth. (Bonus: Look out for The Last of Us star Pedro Pascal as a fellow college student in Buffy's 4th season.) Watch on: Hulu A Quiet Place Creepy creatures that hear and attack at the tiniest noise prey on the last remaining humans (including Emily Blunt and John Krasinski as a couple both off and onscreen) in this edge-of-your-seat thriller. (Its sequel is also available on Paramount+ too!) Watch on: Paramount+ Wall-E Pixar's award-winning story imagines a world destroyed by commercialism—and a plucky little robot who discovers there's still life on Earth to save. Watch on: Disney+ The Stand Horror master Stephen King's vision of the end of the world gets a full series and an all-star cast, including Whoopi Goldberg, James Marsden, and Alexander Skarsgård. Watch on: Paramount+ Contagion This ultra realistic pandemic tale may hit a little close to home, with its depictions of a deadly airborne virus and governmental attempts to quell the panic and stop the virus in its tracks. It features stars like Kate Winslet, Matt Damon, Jude Law, and Gwyneth Paltrow taking various roles in stopping (or spreading) the virus. Watch on: HBO Max The Last Man on Earth Will Forte is (he believes) the last person on earth after a virus wipes out everyone else—until a few other survivors show up. Watch on: Hulu The Road This poignant adaptation of Cormac McCarthy's The Road has plenty of parallels with The Last of Us, as a father and son attempt to journey toward the sea in a bleak, post-apocalyptic world. Watch on: Pluto TV, Tubi Don't Look Up Stars galore—including Jennifer Lawrence, Leonardo DiCaprio, Meryl Streep, and Cate Blanchett—star in this sharply satirical look at how an apocalypse could happen. Lawrence and DiCaprio play scientists who discover a comet hurtling directly toward Earth that could kill the entire planet, and find that the President and other leaders aren't taking it seriously. Watch on: Netflix

If you're looking to get the gang back together—and your family or friends are scattered all around the country—playing virtual games is the perfect way to have some fun and reconnect with your loved ones. Fortunately, there are plenty of intriguing virtual game options out there to get you playing in no time, whether you want to immerse yourself in a different world, work together to escape a room, take a stab at a time-honored classic, or just have a laugh riot over some not-so-safe-for-work double entendres. Ready to play? Here's how to make your virtual game night a success. Best Virtual Games to Play 01 of 20 Jackbox Jackbox has decades of experience creating crafty and fun games to play with friends online. Check through their dozens of game options, from trivia games to draw-and-judge games to get-to-know-you options. (Tee Fury, Trivia Murder Party, and Role Models are among our faves.) You can buy many of the games separately, or opt for party packs that give you several options. Since most of the games take less than 20 minutes to play a round, you might want to have a few different options to liven up your virtual game night. 02 of 20 Among Us This find-the-imposter game was all the rage a few years back—but it's still just as fun to play with friends now. You can connect with up to 15 people to try to complete tasks (or murder and sabotage your friends) in a space ship. 03 of 20 Scribble It! Scribble It! is a Pictionary-like game that shares the same (totally fun) premise: One person draws artwork to try to get others to guess the secret word. There's a cool toolbar to help you with some shortcuts (perfect for...ahem, the more artistically challenged among us). It's free to play, but you can upgrade to the deluxe version ($5) to open up more gaming options for your private group of friends. 04 of 20 SongPop Party Play Name That Tune over the internet with the cute and colorful SongPop Party app that connects you and your crew to see who can guess the song or the artist the fastest (and most accurately). You can choose from an array of different playlists—including specific artists, decades, or genres—to ensure it's a fair game. 05 of 20 Wingspan Want a calmer, more relaxing game night? The charming strategy game Wingspan was adapted online, where up to five players can try to create the coziest little nest of a nature reserve to bring all the birds to their space. You can buy additional packs to add European birds or decorative options to your preserve. 06 of 20 Colonist Fans of the build-your-community strategy game Settlers of Catan can play with friends online for free via Colonist. Just set up a private game and send the link to your pals—and get started mapping out your strategy for building towns and roads. 07 of 20 Heads Up! This is the tech version of the classic game Heads Up, where you place a card with a word on your head and the rest of your team gives you clues to help you guess the word as quickly as possible. (You turn your phone toward the ground to switch to the next word when you solve one.) There are a few free decks included, and you can purchase new decks to suit your group's interests, whether they're Star Wars fans or total foodies. 08 of 20 The Escape Game Love escape rooms but can't get your crew in the same place? Escape Games' virtual options allow you to turn your virtual game night into a big event, as you puzzle your way out of a selection of different rooms, with a host on hand to help you along the way. (This virtual option costs $30 a person and up.) 09 of 20 Scattergories This simple (and free!) version of the classic Scattergories game is easy to play with a crowd. Have everyone grab a pad and paper (or another computer to type their answers), and one player shares their screen from the link above. Press play, and you'll all get 2 minutes (or whatever time you choose) to try to find words that fit all the categories that start with the letter of choice. 10 of 20 Minecraft Minecraft has always been fun for building whole worlds (and playing in survival mode to see how long you and your friends can last with hostile mobs of creepers after you). But there are other games you can play in the Minecraft universe, including Dungeons and Dragons-inspired and Overwatch-inspired options—or check around online for creative game setups like races and obstacle courses you can build in your own private universe. 11 of 20 Bad Cards If you want to indulge in a little wicked Cards Against Humanity while you're apart, Bad Cards has a simple web-based interface to make it happen—along with similar games that let you try to mix and match prompts and cards for wild memes and song lyrics. 12 of 20 Uno! The party game of skips and reverses can be easily played with Uno Online as a multiplayer game. Just share your unique game room name and get started making everyone draw four! 13 of 20 Jackbox Survey Scramble From the silly minds of the Jackbox crew comes their latest game Survey Scramble, which takes data from thousands of players on categories like Dating Red Flags or Sandwich Ingredients, and has you battle all different ways for the best answer possible with up to 10 friends. 14 of 20 Goosechase Turn your virtual game party into a multi-location scavenger hunt with Goosechase. You can set up your own challenges that can be done in the house (i.e. snap a pic of the weirdest thing in your junk drawer) or send them out scouting for a pic of the best bakery in their neighborhood. You can let the fastest or the best answer win. (It's especially fun if you have small teams.) 15 of 20 Kahoot! Host your own virtual trivia night with Kahoot!, which gives you tons of different question categories to test your crew's knowledge of everything from baby animals to celebrities. Or go ahead and personalize it to your family or friends to see who remembers the name of the band your sister started in high school or which of your friends set a Pop Tart ablaze. 16 of 20 Party Animals Set up a furry fight club with your friends with the Party Animals' all-too-adorable battle royale. Pit your cutie corgi against your pals' bunnies and kittens in a slew of crazy scenarios to see which animals reign supreme. 17 of 20 Town of Salem Gather up to 15 friends in the creepy Town of Salem for a mysterious good time. Take on one of dozens of wild roles—serial killers, witches, sheriffs, doctors, mafioso, vampires, and more—as everyone tries to figure out whodunit and eliminate the evildoers from the town. 18 of 20 Overcooked 2 If you want to play a game that involves cooperation, not competition, Overcooked will definitely be your jam. You and your crew (four players total) can work remotely to keep a restaurant kitchen hopping as dishes and cooking scenarios become increasingly wild. 19 of 20 Codenames The popular board game Codenames got an online, remote play (FREE!) option—where you divide your gang into teams and a spymaster tries to get you to guess which codewords are yours without giving it away to the other team. 20 of 20 Playing Cards Sometimes, you just want to keep it simple, and Playing Cards is just the place. Try your hand at a slew of classic card and board games, including everything from spades to mahjong to rummy. They even have a simple feature to help you create and send out an invite to your friends for your virtual game night. Tips for a Great Virtual Game Night Consider the players' ages, skill levels, and interests If you're including little kids, you'll want to choose something that skews more family friendly—so if you're playing Bad Cards, make sure you choose the Bad Kids version to avoid cringiness. And while a name-that-tune style game might work with a close-in-age group of friends, you may find that the gaps in musical knowledge in a multi-generational group can make that a little less competitive. Check the tech requirements Many of the games we recommend are available on multiple different platforms, so your gamer pal can join on his console of choice, while you use your smartphone app. Since some games—like Jackbox or Heads Up—will require a screen for communicating and one for playing, you'll want to make sure that they have both available, especially if they're in a household where folks share laptops or tablets. And don't forget to consider their tech setup and skills—if someone has a hard time setting up new apps or may have an older computer with limited storage space left, you may want to stick with a game that's simpler to use, or available as a web-based option. Send out the invite Share the date, time, and link to the Google Meet, Zoom, or other online meet-up space. You should also include clear instructions on any preparations your players need to make in advance. (You don't want to be wasting precious game time watching everyone download the app during the call.) Plan for a little time to chat pre- or post-game When you're in the thick of a game, you're probably not going to have a lot of time to catch up on what's new in their lives—since you're probably too focused on winning! Make sure there's time either before or after the game for a little conversation.

Looking for things to do in fall while the weather's crisp and the foliage is at its peak? We've got you covered all season long. From enjoying Mother Nature's simple pleasures (hello, leaf-peeping and bird watching) to planning the perfect fall trip with friends (winery tour, anyone?), here are our favorite fall activities for kids, families, and couples, plus tons of things to do with friends or on your own this fall. Outdoor Fall Activities Go apple picking (Browse the best apple orchards near you according to Yelp reviews!) Get lost in a corn maze Take a leaf-peeping road trip (Pick from these towns famous for amazing fall foliage.) Play a game of touch football Go for a hike Collect colorful fall leaves Rent a cabin in the mountains Plant bulbs in your garden for next spring Run a race Visit a pumpkin patch and pick pumpkins (Find the best pumpkin patch in your neck of the woods.) Pitch a tent in the backyard for a "camping" adventure Watch geese flying south for the winter Head to the farmers market for winter squash and Brussels sprouts Go birdwatching for migratory species Try your hand at archery or axe throwing Indoor Fall Activities Dig up your sweaters from storage and donate any you don't think you'll wear Learn to knit Bake an apple or pumpkin pie Start Christmas shopping Drink hot spiced apple cider by the fireplace Make butternut squash soup Watch your favorite fall movies (like Halloween-inspired films) Craft fall-themed decorations like DIY wreaths and garlands or painted pumpkins Make homemade candles with fall scents like cinnamon or pumpkin spice Cozy up to read a book by the fireplace Fall Activities for Kids and Toddlers Visit a petting zoo Make a pinecone bird feeder Go on a nature scavenger hunt in the backyard: acorns, pine cones, orange leaves, oh my! Attend a fall festival Have a fall picnic (Plan your menu with these picnic food ideas using easy fall recipes we love.) Write down what you're thankful for Make a scarecrow Gather up leaves into a big pile, jump in, play, repeat Collect colorful leaves and press them into an album Take a bike ride Make s'mores Set up your own bobbing-for-apples station with a bin of water and lots of fruit Help craft your kid's (or your own) Halloween costume Eat candy apples or make your own Carve your own pumpkins Bake pumpkin bread together for breakfast Go on a haunted hayride Create a sensory bin with fall items like small pumpkins and pine cones Make handprint leaf art Make an apple stamping craft by cutting apples in half, dipping them in paint, and using them as stamps on paper Fall Activities to Do With Friends Tailgate at your local football game Tour a winery Host a potluck Friendsgiving dinner Spend a day antiquing Build a bonfire in the backyard Take a weekend road trip Spend the day at a nearby brewery Go on a bike ride to admire the fall foliage Host a cozy wine and cheese night Take a ghost tour or visit an old cemetery Spend the day at an amusement park (This is great to do with kids, too!) Throw a Halloween party complete with a costume contest Make a big batch of chili and host football Sunday at your house Make fall-inspired cocktails to say cheers together Visit a local farmers' market for seasonal produce Fall Activities for Couples Get spooked in a haunted house Celebrate Oktoberfest at home with beer and sausages Re-watch your favorite scary movies leading up to Halloween Give out candy to trick-or-treaters all dressed up in your own costumes Cook a cozy fall meal like roasted vegetables or a hearty stew Have a cider and doughnut date at a local apple farm or farmers' market Make your own mulled wine Grab a blanket and go stargazing Have a pumpkin-carving night in Go stargazing on a cool fall night Nostalgic Fall Activities Eat a classic (or fancy) peanut butter and jelly sandwich (And remember those crisp, fall school days.) Buy something from a bake sale Borrow a book from the library Make Rice Krispie treats Buy a new notebook Climb a tree Fly a kite on a breezy fall afternoon Watch classic Saturday morning cartoons Construct a cozy pillow fort out of blankets

While holiday classics like It's a Wonderful Life and A Christmas Story are must-see TV this time of year, you don't need to stop the Christmas fun there. Netflix has everything you need to create a Christmas movie marathon—just grab a hot cocoa and a couple of Christmas cookies and celebrate! Netflix's Christmas movie selection isn't quite as robust as the famous Hallmark Channel Christmas movies (yet), but you can still get your fill of snowfalls, hot cocoa, and Santa magic on demand. 1. A Nonsense Christmas With Sabrina Carpenter Sabrina Carpenter fans: Get ready! On December 6th, you can catch her holiday variety show with surprise guests, and of course, plenty of her music. 2. Our Little Secret Lindsay Lohan is the queen of Netflix rom-coms—and here, she unexpectedly comes face to face with a verrry attractive ex when visiting her new boyfriend's family for the first time. Available on Netflix on November 27th, 2024. 3. A Bad Moms Christmas This totally NSFW Christmas sequel features the "bad moms" (Kathryn Hahn, Kristen Bell, and Mila Kunis) lamenting and rebelling against the endless holiday to-do list—and dealing with their issues with their own moms (Susan Sarandon, Cheryl Hines, and Christine Baranski, respectively). Totally. Relatable. 4. That Christmas A blizzard, some escaped turkeys, and some Santa-related mishaps combine for a Christmasy misadventure in this charming animated tale. It comes from the same director and writer who gave us other very British classics, including Love Actually, Four Weddings and a Funeral, and Notting Hill. Available on Netflix December 4th, 2024. 5. Meet Me Next Christmas This New York fairy tale features Christina Milian and Devale Ellis on an adventure through the Big Apple in pursuit of some very important Pentatonix concert tickets. Available on Netflix November 6th, 2024. 6. Hot Frosty What if Frosty the Snowman was a Hallmark-esque rom com? You get the answer to that with this Netflix Christmas movie, featuring rom-com favorite Lacey Chabert as a newly widowed small town sweetie and Schitt's Creek's hot veterinarian Dustin Milligan as a snowman magically come to life. (There's even a little Mean Girls joke in there, too!) Available on Netflix November 13th, 2024. 7. The Family Man Consider this holiday movie a combo of two favorites—A Christmas Carol and It's a Wonderful Life. Wall Street bro Nicholas Cage discovers the road he could have traveled if he chose love (with the darling Tea Leoni) instead of money. 8. The Noel Diary After the death of his mother, novelist Jake Turner returns to his childhood home at Christmas and meets a woman searching for answers about her own mother. The pair find their future after working through their past. 9. Falling for Christmas Spoiled heiress Sierra (Lindsey Lohan), loses her memory in a skiing accident just moments after her fiancé pops the question. With her fiancé and hotel mogul father unable to locate her after the accident, Sierra finds herself in the care of local hotel owner and single dad, Jake (Chord Overstreet). A love triangle ensues, and Sierra must discover what it is that she really wants. 10. Christmas on Mistletoe Farm After inheriting a farm, a widowed father makes the rough transition to life in the village with its quirky residents. His five children, meanwhile, hatch a plot to help save the farm. 11. Christmas With You Pop star Angelina is struggling to write a holiday song under the threat of being dropped by her record label. For inspiration, she decides to grand a young fan's Christmas wish of meeting her. Cue a snowstorm, and Angelina finds herself eating dinner with her fan's lively family—her single dad included—and she ends up finding much more than inspiration. 12. Scrooge: A Christmas Carol The story of Ebenezer Scrooge and the three ghosts of Christmas has undergone another makeover, this time with colorful animation and musical numbers. 13. I Believe in Santa In this feel-good holiday romance, Tom and Lisa have been dating for five months when December rolls around and the pair discovers they have very different ways of celebrating. Lisa dislikes the Christmas holidays, and Tom strongly believes in Santa. 14. A Castle for Christmas Brooke Shields and Carey Elwes have a charming meet-cute over the purchase of a gorgeous Scottish castle in this new-this-year Netflix Christmas movie. 15. Single All the Way This new holiday movie rom-com stars a slew of comedy favorites (Michael Urie, Jennifer Coolidge, Jennifer Robertson, Kathy Najimy, and Barry Bostwick) as Urie's character convinces his best friend to pretend they're in a relationship together for the holidays to avoid his family's pressure to find a mate. 16. Jack Whitehall: Christmas With My Father Comedian Jack Whitehall's Christmas comedy special revolves around his legendarily crochety father—and includes cameos from the Queer Eye gang and a full cast trying to get his dad into the holiday spirit. 17. Alien Xmas Want just a little kid-friendly dose of the holiday spirit? Try this charming short animated Christmas special, where Grinchy aliens are bent on stealing all the presents—and a young elf's act of kindness helps save the day. 18. Dolly Parton's Christmas on the Square Who doesn't love Dolly Parton? This super-schmaltzy Christmas musical features the country legend as an angel who's trying to get the town Scrooge (played by Christine Baranski) to have a heart. 19. Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey Packed with big names and featuring songs by John Legend, this beautiful, playful Christmas movie follows a young girl on a mission to help her toymaking grandfather recover his greatest creation. The songs (and dance numbers) will play over and over in your head, and adults and kids alike will love the heartfelt story. For a joyful Christmas movie that feels fresh and creative, look no further. 20. Klaus This delightful animated Christmas movie follows a spoiled postmaster to his new station in a distant, unpleasant outpost, where he meets a certain woodsman with a fluffy white beard and a penchant for making toys. As a new retelling of the story of Santa Claus, this film is creative and interesting, with enough touching moments and heartwarming scenes to make any grinch smile. This Christmas movie was nominated for an Academy Award. 21. The Knight Before Christmas This addition to Netflix's growing collection of romantic Christmas movies (competing with the Hallmark Channel's Christmas programming) tells the story of a medieval knight magically transported to modern-day Ohio, where a disillusioned teacher is preparing for a loveless holiday season. Predictably, PG-rated romantic antics ensue, but that doesn't make this cheesy flick any less worthy of a watch. 22. Holiday Rush A successful radio DJ (and recent widower) is ready to celebrate the holidays with his four spoiled children—until he loses his job and has to cut back during the season of giving. This family-focused movie has a heartfelt, encouraging message about what really matters during the holiday season. 23. A Very Murray Christmas Bill Murray brings some famous faces—George Clooney, Amy Poehler, Chris Rock, and Maya Rudolph, to name a few—together in this musical comedy special. You'll enjoy seeing your favorite stars sing Christmas classics like "Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow" and "Silent Night." 24. The Holiday Calendar Yet another of Netflix's sappy romantic Christmas movies, this one follows an aspiring photographer stuck in her small town in a dead-end job. An antique Advent calendar passed down from her grandmother arrives just in time to point her toward love—and a more fulfilling career. 25. Fireplace for Your Home Sure, it's not a Christmas movie in the traditional sense, but there's nothing more festive than a roaring fire. If you don't have a fireplace (or the energy to build a fire in your fireplace), filling your space with coziness is as simple as turning on this almost-movie. It even has realistic crackles and pops—play your favorite Christmas music along with it, and you've got a picture-perfect evening. The only downside is that the run-time is an hour, so if you want hours of fire-front coziness, you'll have to restart the video a few times. (P.S. Watch the trailer—it's worth it!) 26. Holiday in the Wild For a slightly atypical Christmas movie, watch this film about a woman who sends her son off to college and plans a second honeymoon for herself and her husband—only to go on the trip alone after her husband announces his plans to leave her. While on safari, the former vet rediscovers her love for animals and ends up staying longer than expected on an elephant sanctuary, where she channels a powerful message for elephant conservation (and meets a dashing man—played by Rob Lowe—of course). 27. A Christmas Prince As Netflix's first foray into the Christmas rom-com world, this sweet, goofy movie set a trend that the streaming service is continuing to follow, with a sequel produced the following year and a third movie released in 2019. The movie itself is reminiscent of Hallmark or Lifetime Christmas romantic comedies—a budding journalist sneaks into the castle to get the scoop for an article on a dashing, playboy prince. Romance ensues, of course. 28. The Princess Switch Vanessa Hudgens stars as a pair of doppelgangers, Parent Trap–style, in this sweet holiday movie that combines mistaken identity, baking, royal romance, and more. If you've already watched every Hallmark Christmas movie available, this is the next best thing. 29. The Christmas Chronicles A Netflix Original Film from 2018, this live-action, kid-friendly movie follows a pair of siblings as they embark on an all-night adventure with Mr. Claus himself to save Christmas. With Kurt Russell as Santa Claus, adorable elves, reindeer, and plenty of other classic Christmas elements thrown in, this movie will make kids and adults alike laugh—and there's a recent sequel, too. 30. Christmas Inheritance Escape the craziness of the holidays and into the world of socialites. The socialite in the film, Ellen, is tasked with inheriting her father's company. However, she must visit his small hometown first to see where the company all began. Ellen uncovers a new way of living with the small town lifestyle for the holidays. 31. Holidate Two holiday haters find themselves always single and left alone at the family kids table. In the film, Holidate, two strangers are on a mission to find their perfect plus one for holiday events after a bad Christmas. Starring Emma Roberts and Luke Bracey, their characters may find some unexpected love after being each others' impressive Holidate. 32. Let It Snow This classic rom-com movie depicts the small town high school friendships and love lives. A telling tale of relationships, Let It Snow is full of love and surprises after a snowstorm hits this small town on Christmas Eve. 33. Love Hard Love Hard is a shocking romantic comedy telling the unlucky story and truths of online dating. Nina Dobrev's character falls in love with a handsome, rugged East Coast guy on a dating app. For a sweet holiday surprise, she travels coast to coast to see him for the holidays, however, she discovers she's been a victim of catfishing. 34. A Boy Called Christmas This Netflix Christmas film follows Nikolas on an extraordinary journey to find his father in the village of the elves, Elfhelm. The holiday spirit is shown throughout the movie as Nikolas brings home the gift of hope this Christmas.

Whether your to-be-read stack is full of classic books or nonexistent, there are many benefits of reading—and reading physical, printed books has its advantages. There's nothing like the smell of old books or the crack of a new spine, and diving into a page-turner can enrich your health and happiness. Though more and more people own e-books and subscribe to services like Audible, 65% of U.S. adults report reading a print book.1 Faverio, Michelle, and Andrew Perrin. “Three-In-Ten Americans Now Read E-Books.” Pew Research Center, 6 Jan. 2022, www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2022/01/06/three-in-ten-americans-now-read-e-books/. Accessed 3 May 2024. Here, we share science-backed reasons to keep up the habit. 01 of 10 Increases Intelligence As Dr. Seuss once wrote, "The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go." Diving into a good book opens up a whole world of knowledge starting from a very young age. Exposure to vocabulary through reading (particularly reading children's books) not only leads to higher scores on reading tests but also higher scores on general intelligence tests for children.2 Plus, stronger early reading skills may mean higher intelligence later in life.3 02 of 10 Boosts Brainpower Not only does regular reading help make you smarter, but it can also actually increase your brainpower. Just like going for a jog exercises your cardiovascular system, reading regularly improves memory function by giving your brain a good workout. With age comes a decline in memory and brain function, but reading may help slow the process, keeping minds sharper longer.4 03 of 10 Makes You More Empathetic Getting lost in a good read can make it easier for you to relate to others. Literary fiction, specifically, has the power to help readers understand what others are thinking by reading other people's emotions.5 The impact is much more significant on those who read literary fiction as opposed to those who read nonfiction. "Understanding others' mental states is a crucial skill that enables the complex social relationships that characterize human societies," David Comer Kidd and Emanuele Castano wrote of their findings. 04 of 10 Helps You Better Understand the Content When it comes to actually remembering what you're reading, you're better off going with a printed book than an e-book. The feel of paper pages under your fingertips provides your brain with some context, which can lead to a deeper understanding and better comprehension of the subject you're reading.6 So to reap the benefits of a good read, opt for the kind with physical pages. 05 of 10 Reduces Risk of Alzheimer's Reading puts your brain to work, and that's a very good thing. Those who engage their brains through activities such as reading, chess, or puzzles could be 2.5 times less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease than those who spend their downtime on less stimulating activities.7 Research suggests that exercising the brain may help because inactivity increases the risk of developing Alzheimer's.8 06 of 10 Helps You Relax There's a reason snuggling up with a good book (and maybe a glass of wine) after a long day sounds so appealing. Research suggests that reading can work as a serious stress-buster9, reducing stress by as much as 68%.10 "It really doesn't matter what book you read, by losing yourself in a thoroughly engrossing book you can escape from the worries and stresses of the everyday world and spend a while exploring the domain of the author's imagination," cognitive neuropsychologist David Lewis​ said. 07 of 10 Improves Sleep Reading a physical book before bed helps you relax more than zoning out in front of a screen. Screens like e-readers and tablets can keep you awake longer and even impair sleep.11 That applies to kids too: Fifty-four percent of children sleep near a small screen, and clock 20 fewer minutes of shut-eye on average because of it.12 Instead of your phone or tablet, reach for a literal page-turner before switching off the light. 08 of 10 Increases Your Life Span You may be surprised to learn that research shows reading printed books can help you live longer. People who read books (as opposed to other content) showed a 20% reduced risk of death.13 So while reading is generally beneficial, it seems reading books—specifically printed books—has an advantage. 09 of 10 Encourages Life-Long Reading Eighty-two percent of parents wish their children would read more for fun, and those who want to encourage their children to become bookworms can start by modeling reading at home. Scholastic's biennial survey of families shows that having adults in their lives who read inspires children to become frequent readers (reading five to seven days per week). While most children say they have someone in their life who enjoys reading (95%), those with a lot of reading role models have a higher chance of becoming frequent readers themselves.14 What does this mean? Storytime offers a good way to spark an interest in reading, leading to a life-long hobby. Seeing adults read and having adults read to them can help children gain a love for reading that lasts a lifetime. 10 of 10 Sharpens Focus In our hyperconnected world, distractions are everywhere. Settling in with a book is a great way to tune out the external noise and focus deeply on a single story. This is good for your brain, as research shows that excessive multitasking can drain our mental capacity.15 Reading a print book, in particular, is more beneficial than using an e-reader because you can't easily start browsing the internet midsentence. In one study, 67% of university students said they were likely to multitask while reading a digital book, while only 41% said they would while reading print.16 5 Tips for Reading More—and Enjoying It To reap the benefits of reading, you have to, well, read. But as adults, we often feel there's not enough time in our hectic schedules to pick up a book. Try these tips for adding more reading time to your day or weekly routine. Choose Shorter Books Picking up a hefty novel may cause you to feel overwhelmed. Instead, try books with short chapters or books of moderate length. It may encourage you to read more often and you'll feel accomplished as you finish. Set a Timer Devote a chunk of time each day to reading. It doesn't have to be a marathon session—even five minutes of reading is beneficial. Set a timer for the desired amount of time and sit down to enjoy your book. Establish Goals Decide on reading goals that work with your daily schedule and responsibilities. Perhaps you wish to read a chapter every day, or 20 pages in a sitting. Maybe your goal is to finish a book once a month. Be realistic when setting goals so they match your routine and you can more easily achieve them. Keep a Book in the Car Undoubtedly, there are moments when you find yourself sitting in your car waiting—whether waiting for your child to leave school or for an appointment to begin. While you definitely should never read while driving, if you're parked and have some extra time, having a book accessible can help you pass the time. Get a Library Card You can experiment with different genres...for free! The due dates will help you stick to a reading schedule, and if you're just not feeling a book, you can return it guilt-free and pick up another one that entices you more.

One of the best ways to celebrate Pride Month this year is to set up your very own LGBTQ+ movie fest (or binge-watch). Fortunately, the streaming services offer plenty of films and TV shows that depict the queer experience in a variety of ways. They all help convey that no matter which end of the sexual or gender spectrum the viewers identify with, they are not alone. And each streaming service has set up its own pages to spotlight the very best LGBTQ+ content—you can see what's available on Netflix, Hulu, Max, Amazon Prime, Paramount+, and Peacock TV. (And there's plenty more beyond what we've compiled here!) So pop the popcorn and break out the bubbly while you settle in for a Pride movie night or all-day multi-season binge fest. LGBTQ+ Movies for Pride Month 1. Portrait of a Lady on Fire This French historical drama, set in 1770, utilizes the time-tested plot of forbidden romances, following a female painter who is commissioned to paint the wedding portrait of a young woman—and ends up enamored with her. Where to watch: Max 2. Bros This 2022 rom-com stars Billy Eichner and Luke Macfarlane as a pair of major commitment-phobes who slowly fall in love with each other. Where to watch: Starz 3. Do Revenge This twisty black comedy starring young favorites like Sophie Turner, Maya Hawke, and Camila Mendes, features a lesbian romance (and a dark bit of lesbian shaming) in its Hitchcock-inspired plot. Where to watch: Netflix 4. But I'm a Cheerleader This 2000 cult classic may deal with rather heavy content—a suburban teenager (Natasha Lyonne) is sent to conversion camp when her parents suspect she's a lesbian—but it's a surprisingly whimsical satire that encourages self-acceptance and a lot of laughs. Other members of the star-studded cast include RuPaul, Michelle Williams, and Clea DuVall. Where to watch: Amazon Prime, Plex, Paramount Plus 5. Moonlight Broken into three chapters, this A24 film chronicles the life of a young Black man in Miami—from childhood to adulthood—as he grapples with his identity and sexuality. Where to watch: Available for rent/purchase on Apple TV, Amazon Prime, Google Play 6. Fire Island SNL's Bowen Yang stars in this cute and campy LGBTQ+ take on Jane Austen's classic, Pride and Prejudice, set in New York's iconic gay getaway, Fire Island. Where to watch: Hulu 7. Love, Simon Every movie marathon needs to include a rom-com. This one follows Simon Spier, a charming 17-year-old who no one knows is gay—except the anonymous classmate he's fallen for online. Added bonus: Jennifer Garner plays the mom in this heartwarming flick. Where to watch: Available for rent/purchase on Apple TV, Amazon Prime, Google Play 8. Ammonite Love costume dramas? Kate Winslet and Saoirse Ronan play lovers in this windswept 1840s lesbian romance. Where to watch: Available for rent/purchase on Apple TV, Amazon Prime, Google Play 9. Disclosure Only 42 percent of Americans have friends or family members who are trans—which means that more than half of the population only understands trans people based on how they are represented in the media. Disclosure chronicles 100 years of trans representation in the movies and TV shows and how that's colored the conversation about trans people. Where to watch: Netflix 10. The Prom This feel-good film adaptation of the popular Broadway musical follows high schooler Emma who wants to bring her girlfriend to the prom. When the head of the PTA tries to stop her, a crew of Broadway pros decide to head to her small town to try to ensure she gets her prom wish. Where to watch: Netflix 11. The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert This beloved Australian road trip flick features the adventures of a pair of drag queens and a trans woman traveling across Australia for a performance, that earned rave reviews—and inspired a musical too. Where to watch: Amazon Prime, Pluto TV 12. The Half of It Like a modern-day Cyrano de Bergerac, teen Ellie Chu tries to help an athlete classmate woo his love interest—only to realize she has a major crush on the same girl. Where to watch: Netflix 13. Edge of Seventeen Coming of age is even harder when you have to come to terms with your controversial sexuality. This 1984 comedy-drama explores sexuality and gender identity, falling in love, and the pain of heartbreak through the eyes of an awkward adolescent boy. Where to watch: Kanopy 14. Brokeback Mountain An LGBTQ roundup isn't complete without the iconic Brokeback Mountain—the misty-eyed love story delivered by Jake Gyllenhaal and the late Heath Ledger always ranks near the top of all-time favorites. If you're not familiar with the plot (in which case, go watch it now!), a rodeo cowboy and ranch hand spend a heated night together on Brokeback Mountain. Through the course of 20 years, the two maintain their sporadic affair while being married to their respective wives. Where to watch: Hulu 15. Booksmart When best friends Molly (Beanie Feldstein) and Amy (Kaitlyn Dever), two academic overachievers who have spent their entire high school lives preparing for college, realize that their fellow party classmates got into the same Ivy League schools, they decide to let loose and make the most of their pre-graduation night. Where to watch: For rent/purchase on Google Play, Amazon Prime, Apple TV 16. Hannah Gadsby: Douglas In Emmy-winning comic Hannah Gadsby's second special, Douglas, she talks more about her life as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community—including a hilarious bit where she compares lesbians to unicorns. Where to watch: Netflix 17. The Birdcage Robin Williams and Nathan Lane star in this American remake of the classic La Cage aux Folles, where this gay couple attempts (and fails hilariously) to play it straight to impress the conservative family of their son's fiancée. Where to watch: Available for rent/purchase on Apple TV, Amazon Prime, Google Play 18. Call Me By Your Name Catch Timothée Chalamet's star-making turn as one half of a gay romance (with his father's 20-something research assistant!) in this critically acclaimed movie. Where to watch: Max 19. Nyad This powerful 2023 biopic about legendary swimmer (and lesbian icon) Diana Nyad's epic attempt to swim the 110 miles of ocean between Florida and Cuba also prominently features her platonic, familial relationship with her coach, Bonnie Stoll. It also features acting powerhouses Annette Bening and Jodie Foster as Nyad and Stoll. Where to watch: Netflix 20. Knock at the Cabin M. Night Shyalaman's twisty plot points come for a gay couple and their adorable daughter, who are held hostage by strangers and given a creepy ultimatum that may just save the world. Where to watch: Starz 21. The Wedding Banquet This 2025 remake of the 1993 classic features a similar setup—a sham wedding between one half of a gay couple (and in this case, one half of a lesbian couple!). When their traditional family members find out, it launches a lavish celebration which creates drama for everyone involved. Where to watch: Available for rent/purchase on Apple TV, Amazon Prime, Google Play 22. The Boys in the Band The landmark 1968 play about a gay man's birthday party, which quickly devolves into a whole lot of drama was re-created in a 2020 film, featuring an all-queer cast including Zachary Quinto, Jim Parsons, and Matt Bomer. Where to watch: Netflix 23. Hedwig and the Angry Inch The cult classic tale of an "internationally ignored song stylist," East German rock star Hedwig (formerly Hansel), is funny, poignant, and well worth a watch or rewatch for Pride Month. Where to watch: Available for rent/purchase on Apple TV, Amazon Prime, Google Play 24. Paris Is Burning Get a real taste of the 1980s queer drag-ball scene in a landmark documentary, which shows how the African-American and Latinx houses formed their families, and dealt with homophobia, transphobia, and the specter of AIDS. Where to watch: Max 25. Bottoms Fight club for girls? That's the premise behind Bottoms, where a pair of lesbian friends set one up in school in order to meet girls—and hijinks ensue. The movie features Rachel Sennott and The Bear's breakout star Ayo Edebiri as the fight club's founders. Where to watch: Amazon Prime 26. Happiest Season If you're looking for a slightly deeper Hallmark-esque holiday movie, slot Happiest Season in for a Christmas-in-Pride-Month viewing. Kristen Stewart stars as Abby, whose plans to propose to girlfriend Harper go awry when she discovers her beloved is still in the closet with her family. Where to watch: Hulu 27. Mean Girls The beloved 2004 movie became a successful Broadway musical—and now, a fresh movie based on the musical, with new references, great music, and still trying (and failing) to make "fetch" happen. The movie's treatment of LGBTQ+ characters was also refreshed in this fun and frothy reboot. Where to watch: Amazon Prime, Paramount+ (The 2004 movie is also featured here, too!) 28. They/Them The idea of an LGBTQ+ conversion camp alone is enough to bring nightmares, but this slasher—starring Kevin Bacon as the charismatic but creepy head of the camp—features a killer on the loose taking out the camp's staffers one by one. Where to watch: Peacock 29. Carol This gorgeous period romance features Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara as forbidden lovers in 1950s New York—and won a slew of awards for its story and acting. Where to watch: Hulu, Netflix 30. Will & Harper This lauded documentary features legendary comedian Will Ferrell roadtripping across the country with his BFF Harper Steele—who just happened to transition recently. Where to watch: Netflix LGBTQ+ Shows to Watch 1. Euphoria This dark (and pretty explicit!) teen drama features lead character Rue's complicated relationship with Jules, a trans student. Where to watch: Max 2. RuPaul's Drag Race If you haven't already enjoyed affirming reality extravaganza that is RuPaul's Drag Race, spend all of Pride month catching up on the many seasons of this popular series. Where to watch: Hulu, Paramount Plus 3. A League of Their Own This series reboot of the beloved movie about the real-life female pro ball players during World War II features romance between the players—similar to the true-life tale featured in the documentary A Secret Love. Where to watch: Amazon Prime 4. The Last of Us This alarming—and yet deeply touching—zombie apocalypse show featured more than one LGBTQ+ storyline. But perhaps the most poignant is the story of Bill and Frank, captured in the third episode of season one. It's a master class in telling a compelling love story in a single hour. (Have the tissues handy!) Where to watch: Max 5. Schitt's Creek A lot of well-deserved attention and accolades have been heaped upon this fish-out-of-water comedy for its positive portrayal of the romance between Daniel and Patrick. Where to watch: Hulu, Amazon Prime 6. Modern Family This beloved, award-winning family mockumentary follows the Pritchett-Dunphy clan as they grow and change through the years—including Mitchell and Cam, who adopt a baby and get married during the show's 11 seasons. Where to watch: Hulu, Peacock 7. Glee A school's oft-bullied glee club featured several compelling LGBTQ+ characters and storylines (including weddings!) throughout the show's six-season run. Where to watch: Hulu 8. Gentleman Jack Another ripped-from-history story, Gentleman Jack (aka Anne Lister) was a 19th-century woman who shirked society's rules by managing her late uncle's business and estate, dressing as a man, and romancing—and "marrying" another woman. Where to watch: Max 9. Love, Victor Pair a viewing this three-season tale of Victor's journey of self-discovery with the companion movie, Love, Simon. Where to watch: Hulu 10. The White Lotus While Jennifer Coolidge completely earned all of her kudos for her star turn as the perpetually clueless heiress Tanya, all of the three seasons of this vacation-gone-off-the-rails show prominently featured LGBTQ+ characters—including some pretty dastardly villains. Where to watch: Max 11. Buffy the Vampire Slayer This epic 1990s series was beloved for its portrayal of Buffy BFF Willow's journey toward self-discovery, and her tragic romance with fellow Wiccan Tara. Where to watch: Hulu 12. Transparent Dad Mort comes out to their three adult children as a trans woman—Maura—and this five-season series explores the repercussions and impacts. Where to watch: Amazon Prime 13. Dickinson There's always been some conjecture that the great poet Emily Dickinson was a lesbian—and Dickinson explores that possibility in an intriguing series, which shows Emily in love with her brother's fiancée. Where to watch: Apple TV 14. Sex Education Several characters on this very NSFW show about the kids (and adults) connected to a British secondary school identify on the LGBTQ+ spectrum. The show's lead, Otis, sets up his own "sex ed" for his fellow students—using info gleaned from his sex therapist mom. Where to watch: Netflix 15. Our Flag Means Death This funky pirate comedy is also an unabashed gay romance—making it a perfectly quirky and enjoyable addition to your Pride Month viewing. Where to watch: Max 16. The L Word The iconic lesbian TV show from the early 2000s featured a group of friends and lovers in Hollywood—and spawned a recent "Generation Q" update featuring some of the same characters alongside new faces. Where to watch: Paramount Plus 17. Queer Eye The modern reboot of the classic "gay men give straight guys a makeover" reality series is the feel-good binge watch you need. Where to watch: Netflix 18. The Sex Lives of College Girls While the entire show revolves around the relationships, raunchiness, and romances that surround the core group of four freshman girls at the fictional Essex College, resident "mean girl" Leighton's journey toward coming out to her roommates and her family was beautifully depicted. Where to watch: Max 19. Will and Grace Will and Grace was one of the first, most popular, and most awarded sitcoms to feature gay lead characters (plus their straight gal friends). You'll have 11 seasons to binge over the course of Pride Month, from the 1998-2006 original run, and the 2017-2020 return. Where to watch: Hulu 20. Grace and Frankie In this long-running Netflix series, Grace and Frankie's husbands come out late in life—impacting the lives of their circle of friends and family. Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin make the perfect pair of friends dealing with this sudden bombshell. Where to watch: Netflix 21. Queer as Folk You'll find several variations of Queer as Folk, each featuring the lives and loves of a group of queer friends—the original British version; an early 2000s U.S. version, set in Pittsburgh; and a more standalone 2022 season, depicting the aftermath of a devastating shooting inside a gay nightclub in New Orleans. Where to watch: Paramount+ (US version), Peacock (2022 season), Amazon Prime (UK version) 22. Orange Is the New Black Based on the true story of a bisexual woman doing time with her ex-girlfriend for drug trafficking, Orange Is the New Black offered a gritty look at life behind bars, including the complexities of lesbian relationships in prison. Where to watch: Netflix 23. Baby Reindeer One of the most talked about shows of 2024 should definitely make your Pride month streaming list. Comedian Richard Gad created the disturbing series, based on his own experiences dealing with a female stalker, coming to terms with abuse in his own past, and discovering his bisexuality with his trans girlfriend. Where to watch: Netflix 24. Palm Royale This frothy fun Apple TV series depicts the soap-operatic goings-on amongst the country club set in Palm Beach—including the poignant story of the (barely) closeted bartender-slash-pool boy Robert (played by Ricky Martin). Where to watch: Apple TV 25. Severance This buzzy, mysterious show has people still puzzling over its twists and turns. But its depiction of its tortured, office-place romance between Christopher Walken and John Turturro earns it a spot on this list. Where to watch: Apple TV 26. Sort of This CBC-produced show features a young non-binary Pakistani person who's navigating their life—especially with their family's expectations.

Whether your dad loves documentaries, dramas, or really good standup, you'll find the perfect thing for a little binging and bonding time with your dad this Father's Day, or really any day, because we don't need an excuse to hang out with our dads! (And hey, even if you've already planned a great Father's Day gift or some exciting Father's Day activities—streaming a great movie is the perfect way to wind down his big day.) Movies to Watch With Your Dad Mike Birbiglia: The New One Comedian Mike Birbiglia shares his insights on new parenthood as part of this totally relatable comedy special that's perfect for Father's Day viewing. Where to watch: Netflix The Gentlemen A whip smart, face paced Guy Ritchie flick, this movie is perfect for dad's who are always looking for a new witty one-liner. And, with a spinoff tv show now, the two of you can spend all night cracking jokes together as you take a wild ride through London. Empire Strikes Back The Star Wars saga is the top movie series that dads want to share with their kiddos—and the 1980 classic sequel from the original trilogy has an extra dose of father-son drama to enjoy. Where to watch: Disney+, Hulu Dune For the sci-fi-loving dad, a watch (or rewatch) of this epic movie (featuring the sacrifice-it-all father Duke Leto Atreides) will be a perfect way to spend Father's Day—and a great way to gear up for the release of the sequel in November. Where to watch: Max Fatherhood Kevin Hart stars in this heartfelt dramedy about a single dad trying to raise his daughter after the death of his wife—perfect for a dad doing it all on his own (or just a dad who loves a movie with all the feels). Where to watch: Netflix Dumb Money Stock market dads who can't tear their eyes away from the Economist might make an exception for Dumb Money, a comedy/drama based on the true story of how one man turned GameStop into one of the hottest companies on Wall Street. Where to watch: Netflix The Shining Horror fan dads will love a chance to catch this Stephen King classic—and even the most flawed dad looks pretty damned great compared to the homicidal Jack Torrance. Where to watch: Max The Adam Project At the heart of this clever time-travel movie is a father-son bonding story, as Ryan Reynolds plays Adam, a fighter pilot who heads back to 2022 to try to save the future (and his relationship with his dad—played by Mark Ruffalo). Where to watch: Netflix The Incredibles For the dad who loves superhero stories (or is a superhero in your book), this Pixar classic dad movie featuring a family of epically gifted folks will be an all-ages delight. (And the sequel's pretty darned great too!) Where to watch: Disney+ Over the Moon In this lovely (and family-friendly) father-daughter story, a young girl builds a rocket to the moon after the loss of her mother. Where to watch: Netflix Mulan The gorgeous live-action tale of this Chinese mythical heroine who dresses as a man and fights in her father's place is perfect for a dad who loves epic battles and swordplay. (And the equally charming 1990s animated version is a great choice if young kids will be watching these dad movies too.) Where to watch: Disney+ National Lampoon's Vacation Clark Griswold is the ultimate comedic dad—and if you've ever taken a road trip with your family in a station wagon, you'll probably find lots to love (and plenty to reminisce about) if you check out this classic. Where to watch: $3.99 on Amazon Prime Operation Mincemeat If your dad can't get enough of WWII history (or spy stories), treat him to this based-on-a-true-story tale of British intelligence espionage in an attempt to fool Hitler, featuring Colin Firth. Where to watch: Netflix Honey I Shrunk the Kids This kid-friendly comedy classic features Rick Moranis as a bumbling inventor father who accidentally shrinks his kiddos to ant size—and has to try to rescue them before it's too late. Where to watch: Disney+ Father of the Bride You have three awesome variations on the same theme—dad feeling a little out of sorts about helping plan his daughter's wedding—if you're looking for a perfect movie to watch with your dad on Father's Day. You can opt for the Spencer Tracy/Elizabeth Taylor version if you're dad's particularly old-school, the 1990s Steve Martin remake (featuring a very young Kieran Culkin as the little brother who helps valet cars), or the 2022 Andy Garcia/Gloria Estefan update. Where to watch: Disney+ My Octopus Teacher This engrossing documentary, which scored the Best Documentary Oscar, follows the filmmaker's relationship with an octopus he discovers while snorkeling in a kelp forest—and how it impacted his relationship with his own son. Where to watch: Netflix Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade Superstars Sean Connery and Harrison Ford make a delightfully bickering father-son duo in this installment of the Indiana Jones series. It's definitely worth a rewatch on Father's Day with a new edition to the series—Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny—set to premiere just a few weeks later. Where to watch: Disney + The Comeback Kid Comedian John Mulaney's father regularly features in his comedy routines—and odds are you (or your dad) will relate to his hilarious stories about his interactions with his dad. The Comeback Kid, in particular, features some amazing dad-related stories, including his dad's stone-cold vacation behavior that will definitely be relatable for a lot of fathers out there. Where to watch: Netflix Hamilton the Musical If you're looking for movies to watch with Dad, this excellent film of the beloved Broadway musical shouldn't be missed. It not only features plenty of the Founding Fathers (perfect for the history buff dad), but poignant plot lines related to parenthood that'll resound with every dad in the audience. Where to watch: Disney+ World's Greatest Dad The late, great Robin Williams stars in this dark dad movie comedy about a father who rewrites (literally) the circumstances of his son's death—and the fallout that comes from his lies. Where to watch: Peacock Mr. Mom It may seem like this 1980s comedy—featuring Teri Garr and Michael Keaton as a married pair who switch off caring for their kids when he's laid off and she lands a gig at an advertising agency—would be dated, but the trials of maintaining work-life balance and keeping young kids thriving still ring true 40 years later. It's the perfect thing to watch with your favorite stay-at-home dad—or a movie to rewatch with your own dad if you guys enjoyed it way back when. Where to watch: AMC+ The Trial of the Chicago Seven If your dad's a history buff, this dramatic take on the 1969 trial of anti-Vietnam War protestors at the Chicago Democratic National Convention will be right up his alley—but this much-nominated drama with an all-star cast will also appeal to dads who love a little drama. Where to watch: Netflix Airplane! This screwball 1980 comedy has launched a thousand catchphrases ("Stop calling me Shirley") and a slew of knockoffs—but you and your dad will definitely enjoy rewatching it for Father's Day. Where to watch: MGM+ Mitchells vs. the Machines This clever animated movie about the world's weirdest family taking on an uprising of electronics works beautifully for an all-ages Father's Day movie fest—or if you just consider your family particularly offbeat. Where to watch: Netflix Big Daddy Adam Sandler plays a jerky guy who adopts a kid just to wow his girlfriend–and growth and maturing ensue. Where to watch: Netflix Finding Nemo Dad Marlon crosses the entire ocean (encountering oodles of dangers) in search of his son Nemo in this perfect tale of how much dads will sacrifice for their kids (and how we all have to let go and watch our kids thrive eventually). Where to watch: Disney+ Red A comedic gold mine featuring Bruce Willis as a lonely retired CIA operative who becomes smitten with a pension call center employee played by Mary-Louise Parker. This movie has just enough action, gun battles, comedy, and heartwarming romance to be enjoyed by all. Where to watch: Peacock Daddy Day Care Chalk this one up as another one of those "dads trying (and sometimes failing hilariously) at taking care of kids, as Eddie Murphy, Jeff Garlin and Steve Zahn attempt to start and run their own raucous home day care center. Where to watch: Netflix Beauty and the Beast Belle's attempts to help her father are what lands her in the Beast's castle—and eventually, to fall in love with her captor. It's the perfect thing to watch with your dad if little princess-loving fans are around—whether you opt for the 1990s animated version, the live-action version featuring Emma Watson, or the 30th anniversary concert. Where to watch: Disney+ Monty Python and the Holy Grail This comedy classic from one of the world's most legendary comedy troupes offers a completely hilarious look at the Quest for the Holy Grail. It's the perfect film for a silly evening together. Where to watch: YouTube TV Big Fish This charming tale of a son trying to reconcile with his larger-than-life, tall-tale-telling father is definitely worthy of a Father's Day movie marathon, with its Tim Burton-esque polish and stars galore in the cast (including Jessica Lange, Ewan McGregor, Albert Finney, and Helena Bonham Carter). Where to watch: $3.59 on Amazon Prime Dick Johnson Is Dead In this funny and poignant documentary, which won the U.S. documentary award at Sundance, filmmaker Kirsten Johnson explores the end of her father's life. Her father, who has dementia, acts out numerous scenarios of ways he might die—and even his own funeral. Where to watch: Netflix Happy Gilmore 2 You can watch the original Happy Gilmore with your dad, who may already know all the lines. Or you can wait until just after Father's Day (July 25, 2025) to watch the new sequel. Either way, we're sure there will be a lot of laughs. Where to watch: Netflix TV Shows to Watch With Your Dad Unstable Real-life father-son duo Rob Lowe and his son John Owen Lowe costar as a father-son duo hoping to save a biotech company from disaster in this new Netflix series. Where to watch: Netflix The Last of Us If your dad (and you!) can handle the thrills, this zombie apocalypse tale comes with a generous helping of heart, as Joel serves as a guardian to teen Ellie on an epic journey to find a cure for the fungal plague that turns regular people into monsters. Where to watch: Max Documentary Now! The documentary-loving dad will definitely appreciate this four-season series, which hilariously sends up of some of the most well-regarded documentaries, Where to watch: Netflix Succession The totally dysfunctional Roy clan is all jostling to try to replace patriarch Logan Roy as head of the empire in this not-so-thinly-veiled look at the Murdoch family, currently in the midst of its fourth season on HBO. Where to watch: Max Schitt's Creek Eugene Levy may just be the most menschy dad in Hollywood, and his turn as the head of the eccentric Rose clan may be his finest role to date. (And not too much of a stretch either, as he plays dad to his real-life son Daniel in the show.) Where to watch: Hulu, Amazon Prime The Mandalorian Din Djarin and Grogu (AKA Baby Yoda) develop a truly touching father-son relationship over the course of this fresh Star Wars universe series, which just ended its third season. Where to watch: Disney+ Stranger Things Sheriff Hopper's turn as a protective dad to teen Elle (especially in season 3) will definitely hit home for dads of teens. Where to watch: Netflix The Sopranos For the dad who loves a good gangster story, take a trip back to 1990s New Jersey to revisit the Soprano crime family and its very flawed father, Tony. Where to watch: Max The Last Dance You'll need to carve out a little time for this documentary series—but your sports-loving dad will love getting an inside look at the legendary Chicago Bulls team in this 10-part series. Where to watch: Netflix The Simpsons Break out the Duff's beer and donuts for a marathon of everyone's favorite doofy dad, Homer, from one of the longest-running TV shows in history (currently airing season 36!). Where to watch: Disney+, Hulu The Rings of Power If your dad loves Tolkien's Lord of the Rings series, this prequel series on Amazon Prime is definitely something you and your dad will love to watch. Where to watch: Amazon Prime Longmire For all the cowboy-loving dads, give Longmire a shot. Based on the Walt Longmire mystery novels by Craig Johnson, it follows a rough and tumble sheriff in Absaroka County, Wyoming who's just starting to move on after his wife's murder, played by Australian actor Robert Taylor. Where to watch: Paramount+ Suits Following the drama of a big-shot corporate lawyer Harvey Specter, and his protege, Mike Ross, who has a brilliant legal mind but lacks a law degree, this show has 9 seasons and a spinoff so you and your dad can really dig your teeth into the legal rivalries, cases, and power plays. Where to watch: Netflix Grown Up Dad Join Joseph Gidjunis as he travels across the country on a journey to become a more present dad and have open conversations with other fathers about the challenges they face. This docuseries examines parenting through the lens of a father continually striving to do better. Where to watch: PBS