Celebrities who host Saturday Night Live get quite a bit of say when it comes to the sketches they’ll be in — they can even contribute their own ideas to the writers. As SNL’s longest-tenured cast member, Kenan Thompson has probably been in as many of these pitch meetings as anyone, and while he said the hosts don’t necessarily need to come in with funny ideas in order to have a great show, one member of the Five-Timers Club consistently kills it.

Kenan Thompson has been a Saturday Night Live cast member for more than 20 years, so when he endorses someone as always prepared and whose material always hits, I’m inclined to believe him. He says actress/comedienne Melissa McCarthy never disappoints when she shows up for her hosting gigs, telling People:

It’s no secret after movies like Bridesmaids, Spy and The Heat that Melissa McCarthy is teeming with comedic talent — just look at the wild sketch she did with Jack Black and a bottle of lotion, for example — but that doesn’t necessarily mean that talent would translate into writing good sketch ideas.

Kenan Thompson said he’s seen all levels of preparedness when it comes to the celebrity hosts, and he definitely doesn’t expect everyone to be on Melissa McCarthy’s level. He continued:

While I’m sure the SNL writers appreciate when people come with ideas, it’s probably also nice if the host is simply open-minded to the ideas that they come up with. I’d imagine the amount of respect that’s shown to the people in the room is way more important than the number of ideas they contribute. Not all hosts are going to gel with the cast members, and you hate to hear about situations where a guest makes cast members cry.

Melissa McCarthy has done amazing work on Saturday Night Live over the years — both as a host of the show and her multiple surprise cameos — so it’s nice to hear her get shouted out by Kenan Thompson for it. It’s also great to hear that she apparently has a great collaborative relationship with the cast. No wonder they keep inviting her back!

Tune in to see what hilarity is to come when Olivia Rodrigo joins the list of SNL double threats, those who have hosted and served as the musical guest in the same episode. After performing twice before, the singer will make her hosting debut at 11:30 p.m. ET Saturday, May 2, on NBC and streaming live with a Peacock subscription.

You know, Law & Order has a reputation for casting actors who go on to become quite famous. However, it’s not as common for an actor to go on Law & Order after they have their big break. But that's what happened this week, though, as Melissa McCarthy surprised Mariska Hargitay with a cameo in an episode that aired on the 2026 TV schedule. Let me tell you, the BTS video of it happening is absolutely priceless, too.

In Melissa McCarthy’s words, she was “sneaking around behind boss lady’s back, lovingly” to surprise her with a guest spot on SVU. This included her wearing a grandma mask on her way to work, and then absolutely stunning Hargitay when she walked on set in her costume. Take a look at the delightful video the Bridesmaids actress posted on her Instagram of the whole ordeal:

As you can see, Hargitay was very surprised. She literally took a step back before screaming in happy shock and hugging McCarthy. Truly, they pulled off the surprise; the Olivia Benson actress was clearly shellshocked. However, it wasn’t easy to do all this, as the Spy actress said:

I bet she is, especially since, as McCarthy pointed out, Hargitay is the “boss lady” on SVU. Oh, and apparently, it took six years to plan this, further proving how hard it was. That makes sense, though. Hargitay is very involved in the show, she’s been working on it for 27 seasons and is a producer. It feels like she’s in a place where she would have seen it all. But that’s not the case, turns out, you can still surprise Olivia Benson, as the actress said:

Hargitay’s reaction truly is priceless, and it’s been added to the list of my favorite Law & Order BTS stories, which does include the time she found out what Dick Wolf’s ringtone was and the time she and Christopher Meloni tried to remember their first lines. However, the celebration was not limited to the set; in fact, it continued on social media as the Olivia actress commented the following messages:

• Happy feet
• WORTH THE WAIT

It was worth the wait, because all of this and the actual scene in the episode are wonderful. In the 19th episode of Season 7 (which you can now stream with a Peacock subscription), McCarthy played a boxer named Jasmyn Jewell, and Olivia stopped by her table at a convention to question her about the case she was working on. Of course, the interaction was funny, I mean, we’re talking about the absolutely hilarious Melissa McCarthy here. However, it was also surprisingly flirty, which I found very fun, especially since Olivia didn’t know how to react to Jasmyn.

All in all, this was the perfect way to add Melissa McCarthy to SVU, and it was the perfect (and I mean perfect) way to surprise Hargitay.

Now, to see what other surprises await, you can catch new episodes of Law & Order: SVU on NBC every Thursday at 9 p.m. ET.

Melissa McCarthy is no stranger to appearing on Saturday Night Live, both as an announced host and in a cameo capacity. She’s made more than a dozen appearances over the last fifteen years and is clearly someone those working on the show trust to get laughs. As such, it wasn’t exactly a surprise when she was one of the famous faces to show up last night in the Five-Timers Club sketch to support Jack Black, but it was a surprise when she also popped out from behind a curtain in a second sketch later in the night.

The second sketch was probably the most outrageous thing the show ran during the episode. It featured Jack Black as a creepy AirBNB host who wanted to stay and hang out with the guests. Midway through, McCarthy was introduced as the wife of his deceased sister and occasional lover. To everyone’s horror, the two proceeded to rub up against each other and put lotion on the guests. You can watch the madness below…

McCarthy and Black don’t exactly have identical senses of humor, but they’re both willing to jump in the deep end and completely sell out for a joke. They share that ability to double down and double down and double down on physical jokes, and they each have a good sense of how long to linger with something if it’s really hitting. You can really see that in this sketch when McCarthy keeps going back to the raspberries she’s blowing on his back.

That willingness to do anything, as well as their popular and prolonged careers, are ultimately why both McCarthy and Black have entered the Five-Timers Club. The show clearly likes working with hosts who aren’t self-conscious and are willing to try things. Both McCarthy and Black have an ability to be low key funny in a more sharply-written and relatable way and high key funny in a more over-the-top and flamboyant kind of way. This is obviously a case of the latter, though there are plenty of SNL examples of the former too.

As for the Five-Timers Club sketch, it should surprise no one that it turned into a musical performance at the end. Before it got there though, we also got cameos from Tina Fey, Jonah Hill, Candice Bergen and musical guest Jack White, who also made an appearance in the country song sketch later in the night. The crowd seemed to love it, and it was nice to see Black officially induced, given he’s also made cameos and appeared as a musical guest during his storied career.

You can catch a new episode on April 11th when the show returns with its next guest host Colman Domingo, who will be doing the monologue for the first time inside Studio 8H. I can’t wait.

Simply put, when you think about the career of Christian Bale, your first thought isn’t “he’s hilarious!” The man has an absolutely stacked filmography full of hugely successful movies and acclaimed performances, and they almost all learn toward the dramatic – even including his two collaborations with director Adam McKay. He has a reputation for being serious… which makes it all the more delightful that I found myself guffawing hearing his recent answer to a question about the anticipated upcoming crime thriller Heat 2.

Bale is attached to star alongside Leonardo DiCaprio for the project, which is a sequel to Michael Mann’s beloved 1995 epic. The original film memorably features a stacked ensemble headlined by Robert DeNiro and Al Pacino, but when he recently spoke with Extra TV on a red carpet about having “big shoes to fill” in the making of the film, he didn’t namedrop any of those legendary talents, instead saying:

Indeed I do, sir, and it gave me a good laugh. And for those who don’t get it, I’ll ask you to rewind your mental clock back to the year 2013 when director Paul Feig – fresh off the success of Bridesmaids – put together a buddy cop comedy titled The Heat featuring the stars that Bale mentioned.

Watching the brief interview, one gets the sense that the actor was giddy to have the opportunity to make that joke, but he did also have a sincere thought to offer about the project, specifically in offering praise to the filmmaker at the helm. Said Bale,

Fans will remember that Heat 2 is going to be a reunion for Christian Bale and Michael Mann. They previously worked together in the making of 2009’s Public Enemies, the biographical drama that saw the Dark Knight star playing FBI agent Melvin Purvis opposite Johnny Depp’s John Dillinger.

Currently in pre-production and set to start filming later this year (Leonardo DiCaprio is presently busy working with Martin Scorsese and Jennifer Lawrence on the atmospheric horror film What Happens At Night), Heat 2 is an adaptation of the novel of the same name co-written by Michael Mann and Meg Gardiner and published in 2022. The story serves as both a prequel and a sequel to its predecessor and is a globe-trotting adventure set across the final two decades of the 20th century. The project is targeting a theatrical release date in 2027, but Amazon MGM (which is set to distribute) has not yet planted a flag in a specific weekend.

Over the five decades that Saturday Night Live has been a staple of late-night television, it has been responsible for some of the funniest impressions of political figures in popular culture. It's invented words, like "strategery," and never failed to get the public talking. Some of the greatest cast members in the show's history have played the most famous and infamous politicians in United States history. This list is hardly exhaustive; that would be impossible, but they are some of the best.

Bill Clinton - Phil Hartman

Phil Hartman was one of the most versatile performers in SNL history and had some amazing moments on the show. He could do it all, including impersonating President Bill Clinton. In 1992, he appeared on one of the true classic skits that sees Clinton on the campaign trail, meeting people at a McDonald's. Most of the time, he's just stealing fries and taking bites of people's food.

George W. Bush - Will Ferrell

Who will ever forget Will Ferrell uttering the word "strategery" during an SNL debate? Ferrell's George W. Bush is a classic. He portrayed the former president as a little dimwitted, but generally affable. While "Dubya" is smarter than he lets on, he is certainly easygoing, just as Ferrall played him. He was so good as Bush that he later played him in a one-man show after leaving SNL and has occasionally returned to the show, as well.

Al Gore - Darrell Hammond

Will Ferrell's George W. Bush is legendary, and like all the best performances, he needed a partner to play the foil, and Darrell Hammond's portrayal of Al Gore, Bush's opponent in 2000, was perfect for the role. Like Gore himself, Hammond's take on the former VP was very dry - but make no mistake, it's pitch perfect and hilarious.

Sean Spicer - Melissa McCarthy

When Melissa McCarthy first appeared on SNL as Donald Trump's press secretary Sean Spicer, she completely stole the show. Though she wasn't a full cast member, the impression was so funny, she returned a number of times to reprise it. It's impossible not to die laughing when she starts shoving gum in her mouth, playing on one of Spicer's own habits.

Gerald Ford - Chevy Chase

The first cast member to send up a president was Chevy Chase, who became legendary for his performances as then-president Gerald Ford. Chase basically played Ford as though the president was a complete idiot, and while that might not be exactly what Ford was like, it didn't matter, because it was hilarious whenever Chase played him. Just don't make him do any math.

Vladimir Putin - Beck Bennett

Occasionally, Saturday Night Live branches out into foreign politics, and in recent years, we've had the pleasure of watching Beck Bennett as a shirtless Vladimir Putin. Is it a spot-on impression? No, but no matter, it perfectly mocks Putin's machismo that is so often on display in Russian propaganda, including his lack of shirt in pretty much every appearance.

Janet Reno - Wll Ferrell

Cast members playing across genders has a long tradition at SNL, and that certainly applies to political impressions on the show. Take, for example, Will Ferrell's hilarious impression of former attorney general Janet Reno. Especially the "Janet Reno's Dance Party" skit. Though Ferrell says he regrets the impression these days, it still should be appreciated for what it was in its time.

Ben Carson - Jay Pharoah

Jay Pharoah is hands down one of the greatest impressionists who has ever graced the SNL studio. He never failed to land just about any impersonation he took on, like former Republican presidential candidate and neurosurgeon Ben Carson. Pharoah perfectly captured Carson's sleepy appearance and gentle manner.

Michael Dukakis - Jon Lovitz

Like Al Gore, former Democratic presidential candidate Michael Dukakis was often criticized for being too dry and too much of a policy wonk. Jon Lovitz nailed the former Massachusetts governor perfectly by playing him in an almost boring manner. It wasn't boring to watch during the 1988 election, however.

Newt Gingrich - Chris Farley

Saturday Night Live legend Chris Farley wasn't known for his impressions, but that doesn't mean when he did them, they weren't top-notch. In fact, his Newt Gingrich was so good, he was even invited by House Republicans to perform as the former Speaker of the House. Right in front of the man himself! Of course, Farley nailed it.

Donald Trump - James Austin Johnson

Everyone and their brother thinks they can nail an impression of Donald Trump, but none do it better than James Austin Johnson on SNL. A ton of cast members (and guest stars) have "done" Trump in the past, including most famously Alec Baldwin, but if we're honest, none of them come close to Johnson's. It's all about the subtleties.

Sarah Palin - Tina Fey

When Sarah Palin first emerged as a vice presidential candidate in 2008, fans of the show and its former head writer and star, Tina Fey, started clamoring for her to come back to do an impression of the Alaskan governor. Fey did, of course, and in the process made the impersonation legendary. She even returned in 2018 to reprise the role.

Bob Dole - Norm Macdonald

The best thing about Norm McDonald's impersonation of Senator Bob Dole was just how little the SNL star did. It was basically just McDonald holding a pen in his hand, as Dole did, and calling himself "Bob Dole" in the third person a lot. It's absolutely hilarious.

Jimmy Carter - Dan Aykroyd

Jimmy Carter, who some would argue might be the best person to ever be president, but none would argue he was particularly effective as a president. That's exactly how Dan Aykroyd played him, too. He was a great man, willing to help out anyone he could, but maybe a little out of his depth as the leader of the free world.

Hillary Clinton - Amy Poehler

You have to wonder just how much Amy Poehler took from her impression of Hillary Clinton into her Parks & Rec character, Leslie Knope. We know Leslie idolized Clinton, just as it seemed Poehler did, especially when they appeared together on the show in 2016.

Joe Biden - Kevin Nealon

Years before Joe Biden became VP, and hence a regular target of SNL, he was a senator from Maryland leading the Senate's investigation into Clarence Thomas when Thomas was nominated for the Supreme Court. The hearings were front-page news, and SNL landed an amazing skit with Kevin Nealon playing the younger Biden.

George H. W. Bush - Dana Carvey

For Gen X, there is no more famous impersonation than Dana Carvey's George H.W. Bush. His version of the 41st president was a little nerdy, but very forthright. He also copied some absolutely classic lines, like "1000 points of light," that have become cultural touchstones. Carvey has done a lot of impressions for SNL, both as a cast member and later as a guest star, but Bush I remains his most famous.

Ted Kennedy - Phil Hartman

The great Phil Hartman may best be remembered for his version of Bill Clinton, but his take on Senator Ted Kennedy in the famous skit about Clarence Thomas' Supreme Court hearing was at least as good and really, really funny. It's always fun to do a Massachusetts accent, even for Hartman.

Bernie Sanders - Larry David

For over a decade now, Saturday Night Live has been great at bringing in guest stars to do the biggest political players these days. One of the most hilarious was when they convinced former SNL writer and Seinfeld co-creator Larry David to play Bernie Sanders. David seemed to enjoy his time playing the independent Senator from Vermont, but he admitted later he would not have wanted Sanders to win and have to play him more than he did.

Ross Perot - Dana Carvey

The 1992 Presidential election was a wild one. George H.W. Bush, was the incumbent, and he was challenged by and young upstart named Bill Clinton. A third candidate, Ross Perot, jumped into the race with a self-funded career as a financial centrist. Dana Carvey was already famous for his Bush, and he added Perot to his repertoire during this election, too.

David Paterson - Fred Armisen

One of the more underrated impressions has to be Fred Armisen's version of the former governor of New York, David Paterson. To some, it was offensive, but Paterson himself seemed to be ok with it, as he joined Armisen for an appearance in one skit.

Donald Trump, Jr - Mikey Day And Alex Moffat - Eric Trump

Sure, usually the kids of Presidents are off-limits for sketch comedy, but when they are such visible members of the campaign, like Eric and Donald Trump Jr. were, they are fair game. Alex Moffat and Mikey Day aren't really perfect impressions, but they are hilarious.

Ronald Reagan - Phil Hartman

Early in his SNL career, Phil Hartman did an amazing impression of Ronald Reagan. The skit shows Reagan as a kindly old man, much like the image he projected to the public, but things changed when the eyes were off Reagan in the script, and he was a ruthless leader with all kinds of schemes.

Elizabeth Warren - Kate McKinnon

Emmy Award winner Kate McKinnon has dozens of amazing sketches in her SNL portfolio. She was legendary in her time on the show for her impressions, including such political luminaries as Hillary Clinton and Kellyanne Conway. One of her best has to be Elizabeth Warren, who McKinnon got to play for a little bit when Warren ran for president in 2020.

Cory Booker - Chris Redd

Cory Booker was an up-and-coming Senator from New Jersey when he through his hat into the presidential ring in 2020. Chris Redd did a very funny impression of the former Newark mayor that emphasized Booker's wide eyes.

Jeanine Pirro - Cecily Strong

Though she was a local politician early in her career, Jeanine Pirro is most famous for her Fox News talk show. On Saturday Night Live, Cecily Strong nailed Pirro's unique speech pattern and made the impression incredibly effective and funny.

Rudy Giuliani - Kate McKinnon

Before he went overboard after Donald Trump's loss in 2020, Rudy Giuliani was one of the most popular politicians in the country. After his wild claims of election interference in 2020, he lost a lot of that respect. That's the version of Giuliani that Kate McKinnon played brilliantly in the aftermath of the election.

Richard Nixon - Joe Piscopo

Early on in SNL's history, Richard Nixon was played by Dan Aykroyd. In the mid-80s, the role was picked up by Joe Piscopo, who, frankly, was even better than Aykroyd. Nixon is one of those celebrities that everyone thinks they can imitate, but it takes real skill to do it as well as Piscopo did on the show.

Barak Obama - Jay Pharoah

Jay Pharoah is one of the most talented mimics in SNL history, and his most famous impression has to be Barack Obama. He crushes the part every time he does it. Though Pharoah had a falling out with the producers on the show, he'll forever be remembered as the show's best Obama.

Paul Simon - Al Franken

We just had to include this one. Even though Paul Simon, a Democrat from Illinois, isn't really remembered by anyone born after 1990, he was a prominent member of the committee that held the Clarence Thomas hearings in '91. For the now-famous skit on SNL, he was portrayed by none other than Al Franken, who himself would later be elected to the Senate.

Michael Bloomberg - Fred Armisen

Fred Armisen's Michael Bloomberg is pretty much pitch-perfect for the smart, but sometimes whiny-sounding former mayor of New York. Armisen captured both sides of Bloomberg perfectly. It's not as famous as "The Californians," but it was still a spot-on impression.

Jeff Sessions - Kate McKinnon

Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions was one of the most prominent members of Donald Trump's first cabinet, and s,o of course, he had to get his comeuppance on SNL. Kate McKinnon had the hono,r and like all the other impressions she did on the show, she nailed Sessions.

As the much anticipated 50th Saturday Night Live anniversary special nears on the 2025 TV schedule, many past and present cast members have been reminiscing, including Leslie Jones and Molly Shannon. Between the behind-the-scenes documentaries that are available with a Peacock subscription and all the press, SNL big hitters have revealed some pretty unique and hilarious anecdotes. This, obviously, includes lots of stories about getting laughs and laughing. In the case of both Jones and Shannon, their tales are about breaking and laughing in the presence of Melissa McCarthy and Brendan Fraser, respectively.

In honor of Season 50, Jones, Shannon and more shared some of their highlights of not being able to keep it together during their tenure on SNL with People. Breaking almost feels like a time-honored inevitability on this show, and it's always delightful to see, what's even better is hearing why it happened, take a look:

These stories really are wild, and hard to fathom. However, they hilariously happened, and we're going to break them down a bit further.

Melissa McCarthy Broke Leslie Jones On SNL

It’s not shocking in the slightest that one of the Five-Timers Club members broke Leslie Jones. Melissa McCarthy has been a modern-day favorite; from her stint as former White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer to her Matt Foley impersonation and all the committed oddball bits in between, there’s no question she can break some of the best.

What seemed to help this perfect storm for the Bridesmaids actress to make the former Super Market Sweep host laugh were her SNL castmates. Jones’ former peers, Kenan Thompson and Cecily Strong, used to tell her the wrong camera direction. So, when she did lose it, the camera caught her full-on. And then when she started laughing, she couldn't stop:

With all the upcoming SNL events, hosts and musical acts I'm hopeful that we'll see McCarthy crack a joke or two at some 50th event. Then, maybe, by some lightning strike of luck, she can maybe make Jones break again, because this whole story and moment is delightful.

Molly Shannon’s Wild Story About Brendan Fraser Hosting

I think only Molly Shannon could have a story about her, Will Ferrell, Brendan Fraser and Xena the Princess Warrior and have it make sense.

In the sketch in question, all seemed to be going well for the How the Grinch Stole Christmas actress until she accidentally pulled off a part of Fraser’s Xena costume. She then had a wild thought that made all involved with the bit break, and there was no hope of coming back, as she recalled fondly:

It’s wild to watch both the usual players and the special guest of the week perform live with very little practice time, especially knowing former SNL hosts' opinions about just how chaotic this gig can be. It's even better when live and spontaneous moments like this get caught on camera. The instances that break the cast have always been one of the best parts of the historic late-night show, and the situation involving The Mummy actor proves that.

Now, the anniversary show and the rest of the 50th season can’t come soon enough! This onslaught of SNL stories has me pumped, and watching Leslie Jones talk about how Melissa McCarthy broke her along with Molly Shannon’s recounting of the Brendan Fraser-Xena story makes me motivated to go find more Studio 8H fun.

Thankfully, that's not hard to do, as Saturday Night Live airs on its titular night at 11:30 pm ET and the 50th Anniversary Special drops on February 16 at 8 p.m. ET.

Gilmore Girls was not just a hit that ran for seven seasons in the early 2000s, but a show that’s still beloved by fans to the point where a sequel miniseries was made in 2016 (which you can watch with your Netflix subscription), nine years after the original finale. It’s also one of the most rewatchable shows ever that gives fans a nostalgic experience, but if you’ve recently completed a binge of the family dramedy, then it’s good that we have a list for you of 32 movies and shows that feature the Gilmore Girls cast. Enjoy!

Supernatural (2005-2020)

Sure, this list could have started anywhere, but why not start with the portrayer of (mostly) sweet Dean, Jared Padalecki? His supporting role on Gilmore Girls couldn’t have prepared fans for his hugely successful run as the creature-of-the-night hunting Sam Winchester on Supernatural. The series ran for 15 seasons and has tons of amazing episodes, especially if you enjoy spooky stuff.

How To Get Away With Murder (2014-2020)

Overall, most of the players from GG saw a boost in their careers after the show, and likely helped make it possible for Liza Weil, who played the ever-stressed Paris Geller, to eventually make her way to a major role on the thrilling ABC hit, How to Get Away with Murder.

The O.C. (2003-2007)

Is bringing up Fox’s early aughts mega-hit teen drama The O.C. this quickly a bit of a cheat? Sure, but we can’t deny that without the popularity of his Dave Rygalski in Season 3, we might never have gotten actor Adam Brody as the funny, loyal, Summer-obsessed Seth Cohen in one of the defining teen shows of all time.

The Handmaid’s Tale (2017-2021)

Much like viewers were probably not prepared to watch Padalecki fight monsters after his time on Gilmore Girls, I doubt most could have expected to see star Alexis Bledel take on Dr. Emily Malek, the strong-willed and rebellious Handmaid first known as Ofglen. She won an Emmy Award for her role, so this is one drama not to miss.

Parenthood (2010-2015)

There might be no character more strong-willed, funny and quirky than Lorelei Gilmore, who was brought to life so exceptionally by Lauren Graham. If that character description sounds a lot like Sarah Braverman-Holt from NBC’s family drama, Parenthood, then you get why Graham was a perfect fit for both.

Bride & Prejudice (2004)

A small role is a role nonetheless, and if you check out the amazing Jane Austen-inspired rom-com, Bride & Prejudice, you’ll see Bledel as Georgie Darcy, Will’s younger sister.

The Good Wife (2009-2016)

Say what you will about being Team Logan, but the Huntzberger boy still has his supporters even today. This is probably because Matt Czuchry did such a good job portraying him, much like he did the charming go-getter Cary Agos on CBS’ legal drama, The Good Wife.

Fire Country (2024)

As one of the biggest dramas on CBS, Fire Country is hard to miss and even harder to dislike. That’s why it’s the perfect show to check out to see Jared Padalecki as the still-grieving firefighter Camden Casey during Season 3.

Saw IV (2007)

Honestly, were you expecting to see something as horrific as Saw IV on this list? Well, you might be even more surprised to know that Scott Patterson, who played Luke Danes, appeared in a total of three Saw films as determined FBI agent Peter Strahm.

This Is Us (2016-2022)

Can you imagine if anyone has forgotten This Is Us? NBC’s family drama was an immediate success, with the trailer for the very first season racking up a staggering number of views. Of course, you can revel in your Team Jess status by watching Milo Ventimiglia portray loving patriarch Jack Pearson.

13 Reasons Why (2017-2018)

13 Reasons Why is a teen drama that made major waves during its run on Netflix, but you might not know that Keiko Agena, who brought Lane Kim to life on GG, spent the first two seasons playing the kind and protective communications teacher, Pamela Bradley.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever (2024)

If you can be in the mood for a holiday film all year long, then 2024’s The Best Christmas Pageant Ever should be added to your viewing calendar. In it, Lauren Graham brings her signature charm to the role of Beth Bradley.

Guardians Of The Galaxy (2014)

Of all the GG actors who one might have expected to appear in a giant blockbuster franchise, few fans would likely have bet on the actor who gave us the wonderfully nice but odd Kirk Gleason, Sean Gunn. After a supporting role as Kraglin in the original Guardians of the Galaxy in 2014, he’s now reprised the part in seven MCU films and TV series.

Bridesmaids (2011)

For the first time on this list, we get to Melissa McCarthy, who played beloved chef Sookie St. James. She was in several projects after Gilmore Girls ended, but the comedy hit Bridesmaids, where she played the loyal but crude and somewhat erratic Megan, launched her career into the stratosphere. She received an Oscar nomination for her work, so it’s not to be missed.

Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist (2020-2021)

The jukebox musical dramedy series, Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist, was a treat, but if you missed its two seasons on NBC, know that Lauren Graham played a major role in Season 1 as Zoey’s strict boss, Joan.

The Cleaning Lady (2022-Now)

Any show about gangsters needs a good cop investigating and trying to bring them down, and Liza Weil has starred as confident and cunning FBI agent Katherine Russo on The Cleaning Lady for the thriller’s entire run so far.

The Heat (2013)

Need a wild action comedy about two mismatched officers (one a prim, by-the-book FBI agent, and the other a crass, quick-to-anger, by-any-means-necessary local cop) who have to get along enough to get a drug lord off the streets? Then you should watch Melissa McCarthy as police detective Shannon Mullins ASAP.

The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers (2021-2022)

This follow-up to The Mighty Ducks film franchise hit Disney+ and brought GG fans more of Lauren Graham, as she starred as Alex Morrow, who forms and then coaches a new underdog hockey team after her son is cut by the Ducks.

The Sisterhood Of The Traveling Pants (2005)

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants is a two-film franchise that still means a lot to those who were young women at the time it was released. There’s no better time than now to revisit (or watch for the first time) Alexis Bledel as Lena in both films.

An Unmarried Woman (1978)

Here’s a throwback for you. The 1978 romantic comedy-drama, An Unmarried Woman, features a performance from none other than Emily Gilmore herself, Kelly Bishop, as Elaine, a good friend of the title character.

The Lost Boys (1987)

Alright, this one’s technically a throwback, too, it just doesn’t go back quite as far. But, The Lost Boys is a definite teen horror classic, along with talents like Kiefer Sutherland and Corey Feldman, stars Richard Gilmore actor, Edward Hermann, in an important role.

Prodigal Son (2019-2021)

This Fox crime drama may not have lasted long, but it certainly had a dedicated fanbase, and some of that was likely because of Keiko Agena’s work as the kind, trusting, and socially awkward medical examiner, Dr. Edrisa Tanaka.

Sullivan’s Crossing (2023-2024)

The family drama, Sullivan’s Crossing, came to The CW with a treat for Gilmore Girls fans, as it brought Scott Patterson back to the network as the estranged father, Sully, of the lead character, big city neurosurgeon Maggie Sullivan, who returns to her small Nova Scotia town after a scandal.

Mike & Molly (2010-2016)

The long-running comedy Mike & Molly is another of Melissa McCarthy’s post-GG projects. This CBS hit saw the titular couple fall in love after a health-related meet-cute, and work on their relationship while attempting to deal with their often wacky families and friends, and life’s many ups and downs. Check it out for McCarthy’s Emmy-winning performance.

Sin City (2005)

Based on the comic book series of the same name, Sin City is a noirish, action-filled crime drama that just so happens to feature Alexis Bledel as a…well, not entirely trustworthy participant in the rampant criminal shenanigans that abound in the sinful city of the title.

The John Larroquette Show (1993-1996)

One of the very few series to take place in St. Louis, Missouri, The John Larroquette Show was a sitcom that saw the actor portray the night manager of a run-down downtown bus station, with Liz Torres, who played the bubbly and gossipy dance teacher Miss Patty on Gilmore Girls, as his secretary. Torres received two Emmy nominations for her work here, so it’s definitely worth a watch.

The Resident (2018-2023)

Considering the number of medical shows that tend to fill the airwaves, it’s a bit of a surprise that it’s taken this long to get to one, but it is a pretty fine one. The Resident stars Matt Czuchry as the conceited (but still somehow charming) Dr. Conrad Hawkins, a third-year resident who practices with unconventional techniques and a knowledge of the business of medicine who’s determined to stop younger residents from putting their chosen profession on a pedestal.

All In The Family (1971-1978)

If you haven’t yet watched the classic ‘70s sitcom, All In the Family, you’re missing out. Not only does the Norman Lear series use its humor to tackle a number of hot-button issues that are still very relevant for today’s audiences, but it also features Sally Struthers (she was Lorelei and Rory’s nosy neighbor in Stars Hollow, Babette) in her Emmy-winning role as Gloria, the somewhat childish, college-aged daughter of Archie and Edith Bunker.

Walker (2021-2024)

After his immensely successful run on Supernatural, Jared Padalecki moved right on to yet another show on The CW. This one, Walker, was a reimagining of the long-running Chuck Norris hit Walker, Texas Ranger, which saw Padalecki take on the lead role as he returned home after being undercover for two years while trying to reconnect with his teenage children and figure out how his wife really died.

True Blood (2008-2014)

Here’s one that’s easy to miss, even if you’re a die-hard Gilmore Girls fan. Among the many characters, human and supernatural, who populated the HBO vampire series True Blood for seven seasons, you see plenty of Merlotte's Bar & Grill short order cook, the kind but troubled Terry Bellefleur. But, did you know that he’s portrayed by Todd Lowe, the same guy who brought us Hep Alien’s dim, womanizing, guitar-playing, lead-singing wanna-be rock star Zack Van Gerbig? Well, now you do!

Can You Ever Forgive Me? (2018)

Melissa MacCarthy was able to hit the Academy Awards red carpet as a nominee again when she starred in the biographical film Can You Ever Forgive Me? As writer Lee Israel. It’s based on Israel’s memoir of the same name, where she talks about her attempt to revive her writing career by forging letters from deceased celebrities and selling them. This critically acclaimed drama is one not to miss.

Spy (2015)

Last, but not least, we have another of Melissa McCarthy’s winning comedies in Spy. The movie follows CIA employee Susan Cooper, who is only allowed to assist her James Bond-esque partner via a desk job at the home office and an earpiece. But, when an operation goes wrong and leads to her partner’s death, Susan volunteers to go into the field and get to the bottom of things. Seeing as how this is a McCarthy film, you can bet that the situation gets hilariously out of hand before all is said and done, and you’ll be better for it!

As you can clearly see, while Gilmore Girls has been off the air for nearly 20 years, not only has it not been forgotten, but its stars have continued to keep us entertained in a number of other TV shows and movies, and hopefully will for many years to come!

One of the most exclusive clubs in show business just got a new member. SNL’s much-hyped 5-Timers Club opened its arms to funnyman and former cast member Martin Short last night, and there was no shortage of star power there to honor his big moment. Nearly a dozen Hollywood A-listers, in fact, made an appearance in the official 5-Timers Club sketch, and they were each welcomed by a pumped-up crowd stoked to see them back in Studio 8H.

Clocking in at more than nine minutes, the 5-Timers Club took the cold open slot last night, and it rolled out its cameos slowly, giving each of the mega-celebrities a little time to pick up some laughs and really make their presence felt. My favorite segment was definitely the group reveal where everyone went around and dropped a secret about themselves, with the best being Paul Rudd admitting Ant-Man’s powers aren’t good and Tom Hanks hilariously admitting, despite all the hoopla around his early diagnosis, he never actually had Covid. You can watch all of it in full below…

It’s only fitting Saturday Night Live gave us a 5-Timers Club sketch this season because the show is leaning a lot harder into nostalgia because of the milestone. The beloved sketch comedy show is celebrating its 50th Season this year, and while it always works in nostalgia and fun cameos now and again, it’s been especially aggressive about it this season. Former cast members like Maya Rudolph, Dana Carvey and Andy Samberg have contributed to multiple episodes this season, and quite a few others like Adam Sandler and David Spade have shown up for one-offs.

This 5-Timers Club sketch also includes a fun cameo from former cast member Jimmy Fallon. In the sketch, he has a great little moment with Martin Short about laughing at their own jokes, and it struck me as a great example of what has allowed SNL to connect with so many people over the years. When you look down all the 5-Timers Club members in this sketch, it’s clear there’s no specific brand of comedy. How John Mulaney is trying to make people laugh is in no way the same as how Jimmy Fallon is trying to make people laugh or Tina Fey or Alec Baldwin or Kristen Wiig. Melissa McCarthy literally falls through a wall during the sketch. The show is a big tent, and it has always been good about being funny in different ways.

SNL is scheduled for a little holiday hiatus after this week, but it’ll return sometime in the new year with a fresh crop of hosts that haven’t been announced yet. In keeping with the theme of this season, I’d expect to see a good balance of new stars of the moment and some folks who have been around the show plenty in the past.

Hollywood is a tough place to get your big break. Many actors struggle for years before they finally hit it big. These stars put in the effort and stuck with it until they finally became huge stars after they turned 40. Stars like Steve Carell, Kathy Bates, Alan Rickman, and many more actors like them are household names now, but it took them years to get there.

Steve Carell

Like so many other people Steve Carell started his career at Second City in Chicago. He then kicked around television for a while, with roles on the Dana Carvey Show and eventually at The Daily Show. It's when he left that show to head the cast in The Office that his career exploded and he became one of the most beloved stars on earth.

Samuel L. Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson has one of the most impressive resumes in Hollywood, but it took him a long time to get there. His first credit came in 1972 when he was 24, but it would take another two decades or so, after a series of smaller roles in the late '80s, that he would land the role of Jules Winfield in Pulp Fiction and have his career completely explode.

Alan Rickman

The late, great Alan Rickman started acting in theater in the mid-70s, finding regular roles throughout the early '80s. Then, in 1988, at age 42, he made his feature film debut in a little movie called Die Hard. To this day, Hans Gruber is a legendary villain. He would go on to star in dozens of movies, most notably the Harry Potter films, before passing away in 2016 at age 69.

Betty White

Though Betty White had a little success in her 30s with her eponymous TV show for NBC in the '50s and minor hit Life with Elizabeth in the same decade, it really wasn't until after her 40th birthday in 1962 that she really rose to big stardom. After her 50th birthday, she was cast in the Mary Tyler Moore Show, and after her 60th birthday, she teamed up with Bea Arthur, Rue McClanahan, and Estelle Getty in the role she's probably best known for today in Golden Girls.

Morgan Freeman

Morgan Freeman was born in 1937, but it would take almost 50 years for the legend to truly break out in film. After working here and there as a dancer and as a stage actor in the 1960s and '70s, he scored his breakout role in 1987's Street Smart, starring alongside Christopher Reeve. His performance earned him the first of his Oscar nominations and by 1989's Glory, Freeman was a bonafide star.

Bea Arthur

Like her Golden Girls co-star Betty White, major success came later for the great Bea Arthur. Though she was a steadily-working actor starting in the 1940s, it wasn't until she played the character Maude Findlay, first in All In The Family, then her own spinoff called Maude, that Arthur reached the heights of fame. She was nearly 50 at that point, but her star never faded after that.

Brian Dennehy

Brian Dennehy didn't set out to be an actor. After serving in the Marines and graduating from Columbia University in 1965 with a degree in history, he caught the theater bug and started working in regional theater. In 1983, after a few smaller roles, he scored his first big role as the sheriff in First Blood at age 45.

Kathryn Joosten

Kathryn Joosten is best known for playing the beloved Mrs. Landingham in The West Wing and like her character, her real-life story is truly inspiring. She spent the first half of her life first as a nurse, then as a stay-at-home mom, raising two kids. At the age of 42, after divorcing her husband, Joosten began working in local theater in her hometown of Chicago. At age 53, she moved to Orlando and became a performer at Disney World. Soon after she moved to Hollywood and started landing parts in TV. Amazing.

Kathy Bates

Though she made her film debut in 1970, it would be more than two decades later, after working in theater and in bit TV parts, before Kathy Bates would become a star. It was, of course, he now-legendary performance as Annie Wilkes in Misery that would vault her to stardom. Truly one of the best female villains in Hollywood history.

Bryan Cranston

Most people certainly think first of Breaking Bad when they hear the name Bryan Cranston and with good reason. Cranston was 52 when he first starred as Walter White. Of course, that wasn't his breakout role, which came eight years earlier when he starred as the dad in Malcolm In The Middle ]. While he has been acting in movies and TV for years, it was that role, after his 40th birthday, that really put him on the map.

Viola Davis

EGOT winner Viola Davis found success on the stage first, winning two Tonys before turning 40. In 2008, at age 43, she was nominated for an Oscar for her role in Doubt, but it was 2011's The Help, for which she was nominated for another Oscar, that vaulted her to superstardom.

Rodney Dangerfield

Rodney Dangerfield has one of the best stories of perseverance in Hollywood history. Though technically his career started in the 1930s, his stand-up was so bland that he eventually gave up and became a salesman. In the 1960s, he re-invented himself and his act and it was a hit, with some of the best one-liners of all time. Suddenly the guy that got no respect was getting respect by talking about how he got no respect! It wasn't until 1980, at almost age 60, that Dangerfield landed his first starring role in a movie, in Caddyshack.

John Mahoney

John Mahoney started his career as the "old guy" at the Steppenwolf Theater in Chicago. After years as an English teacher, the future Frasier star gave up his career and started acting in his late 30s. By the late 80s, well into his 40s, he was landing roles in movies like Say Anything... and Moonstruck.

Jane Lynch

It's easy to say that Glee was the project that really made Jane Lynch famous, but she got her big break before that when she found her way into the Christopher Quest universe, where she was responsible for some of the wittiest one-liners in Best In Show.

Ricky Gervais

Ricky Gervais took a roundabout way to comedic fame. He started in music, moved to radio, and eventually found his way onto the popular British show The 11 O'Clock Show. It was in 2001, however, at age 40 when he co-created and starred in The Office. The rest is well-known history.

Michael Emerson

Michael Emerson took the very long trail to fame, and his story is inspirational. He struggled for years as an actor, first in New York, then later in Florida where he taught acting as well. He stsarted landing work in the theater in the late '90s, but got his big break in a guest spot on The Practice in 2001. Of course, he's best known for playing Ben on Lost.

Peter Dinklage

Though he found steady work in the early '00s, Peter Dinklage really shot to superstardom when he was cast as Tyrion Lannister in Game Of Thrones when he was 42. Today, that character is still, and will likely always be, one of the most beloved in TV history. Tyrion also happens to the character who appeared in the most episodes of Game of Thrones.

Larry David

Larry David's career had a lot of ups and downs in the early years. His first major gig was as a writer on SNL, though he didn't find much success there. At age 42, in 1989, he co-wrote a TV pilot for what became Seinfeld and his career took off. On screen, after playing a few minor roles onSeinfeld, he found even more fame with HBO's Curb Your Enthusiasm.

Melissa McCarthy

While she did have some big supporting roles in her 30s in Gilmore Girls and Samantha Who?, Melissa McCarthy's career exploded when she started as Molly in Mike & Molly, in 2011, at age 41, she co-starred in Bridesmaids, where she completely stole the show, earning an Oscar nomination in the process.

Margo Martindale

Margo Martindale has become one of the best character actors in Hollywood, but it took her a long time to get there. She worked in community theater for years before she regularly started landing TV roles in her late 30s. After her 40th birthday, her career took off with dozens of memorable supporting roles in both film and TV.

Leslie Jones

Saturday Night Live is generally thought of as a young person's game. Most cast members join very early in their careers and by the time they are 30, they are moving on to other things. Leslie Jones is an exception to that. She didn't join the cast until she was nearly 50, but she made an immediate impact. Since leaving the show, she's continued to star in things like 2016's Ghostbusters and Coming 2 America in 2021.

Ty Burrell

Modern Family took the world by storm when it debuted in 2007 and one of the leads of the show, Ty Burrell, became a huge star. This came after years in Hollywood in supporting roles and, eventually, a starring role in the short-lived show Out of Practice. It was Modern Family that made him a household name.

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer started landing bit parts and supporting roles in the mid-90s, but it was 2011's The Help that put the Academy Award-winner on the map, after her 40th birthday. Not only did she win for her role in The Help, but she's been nominated for others as well, including for her work in Hidden Figures and The Shape of Water.

Patrick Stewart

While Patrick Stewart steadily found work in the theater and in smaller supporting roles in TV and film, it wasn't until he was cast as Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation in 1987 that he became a household name. He was 47 at the time and he's only gotten more famous as he's gotten older.

Billy Bob Thornton

Billy Bob Thornton basically made his own fortune in Hollywood after years of smaller supporting roles, he wrote, directed, and starred in Sling Blade. The movie was a low-budget masterpiece and he's been starring in big roles and winning awards ever since.

Hannah Waddingham

Many actors get their start in the theater, just like Hannah Waddingham. With a fantastic singing voice and wonderful acting chops, it makes sense that this is where Waddingham would first find success. It would take a couple of decades for her to equal that on screen with roles in shows like Game of Thrones, and, of course, her greatest claim to fame, Ted Lasso.

Richard Farnsworth

Without a doubt, the late Richard Farnsworth had one of the most incredible careers in Hollywood history. He had uncredited roles in some of the most famous Hollywood epics including Gone With The Wind, The Ten Commandments, and Spartacus. He didn't earn his first credited role until he was 46 in a movie called Texas Across the River in 1966. Then in the 1970s, he became a well-known character actor in projects like Roots, The Natural, and Misery.

F. Murray Abraham

After scoring a handful of supporting roles in movies in the 1970s, F. Murray Abraham became a household name after his Oscar-winning performance as Antonio Salieri in 1984's Amadeus. It was truly a career-making role and one that is still loved today by fans.

Liam Neeson

Liam Neeson was 41 when he starred in one of the greatest movies ever made, even if it's a movie you can only watch once. As Oscar Schindler in Schindler's List, Neeson immediately became world famous. It's safe to say that role will always keep him famous, too.

Lucille Ball

It's really hard to believe that Lucille Ball was over 40 when she became famous on I Love Lucy, but it's true. The comedian worked in show business for decades before she and her husband Desi Arnaz created the now-legendary TV show and her fame never faded for the rest of her life.

Tommy Lee Jones

Like a lot of actors from Texas, Tommy Lee Jones does things his way. The Harvard grad worked for decades, even winning a Golden Globe and an Emmy before he truly found fame and became a leading man in the 90s with movies like The Fugitive and Under Siege.

Ken Jeong

it's not often that someone switches careers from medicine to drama, but that's exacting what Ken Jeong did. Though he always had a love of acting, he originally pursued a more traditional career as a doctor, while acting and doing standup on the side. By the mid-2000s he was earning enough to leave medicine behind, and in 2011, at age 40, he broke out in a huge way in the Hangover.

Whether they're scripted or improvised, Melissa McCarthy knows how to make a funny line entirely her own. The Groundlings alum turned comedic superstar has appeared in some of the best comedy films of late—Bridesmaids, Spy and Can You Ever Forgive Me? among them—as well as beloved television series like Gilmore Girls and Mike & Molly, and she's cranked out some classic one-liners along the way. Whether appearing on TV or in her own funny flicks, these are the 32 funniest lines from Melissa McCarthy. 

"It's Coming Out Of Me Like Lava!" - Bridesmaids

The bridal-shop bathroom scene from Bridesmaids is the stuff of comedy legend, boosted by McCarthy's hilarious physical comedy and desperate yelling as her character Megan Price deals with the after-effects of some lunchtime mystery meat. In a cast of comedy greats, McCarthy is an absolute stand-out. 

"You're A Loud Kisser, And It's Gross And Unappealing. You Look Like Some Old Toothless Woman Suckin' The Jelly Out Of A Donut." - Spy

There are many things to love about the 2015 action-comedy film Spy but our favorite is getting to watch Melissa McCarthy and Rose Byrne brutally and brilliantly insult each other as secret agent Susan Cooper and arms dealer Rayna Boyanov, respectively. 

"14 Dollars? Is It Magic Whiskey? Do I Get A Motorcycle With It? Is It Gonna Be Served In Jesus's Shoe?" - The Heat

In the 2013 buddy cop comedy The Heat, Melissa McCarthy played the gun-toting firebrand Shannon Mullins opposite Sandra Bullock's strait-laced special agent Sarah Ashburn. One of the funniest scenes from the comedy sees Mullins loosen Ashburn up with some very overpriced rounds of whiskey shots. 

"I Just Want To Be Upfront And Say I Visually Enjoy You." - Identity Thief

Melissa McCarthy and Jason Bateman are the drivers behind the mismatched buddy road trip comedy Identity Thief, which sees the comedienne play a Florida-based female con artist who not only steals the identity of Bateman's Sandy Patterson but also tortures him with her come-ons and car singalongs. 

"That's Not Chicken. I Don't Know What It Is, But It's Not Bird...Bird Doesn't Come Out Of A Squeezy Tube!" - Tammy

We don't see Tammy—McCarthy's character in the 2014 road comedy Tammy—winning "Employee of the Year" at Topper Jack's, the fast-food joint where she works. After getting fired for her frequent tardiness, Tammy loudly and disgruntledly reveals to the restaurant's customers that the chicken nuggets they're eating are definitely "not bird." 

"I'm Glad He's Single Because I'm Going To Climb That Like A Tree." - Bridesmaids

While at the engagement party for her brother Dougie (Tim Heidecker) and her soon-to-be sister-in-law Lillian (Maya Rudolph), McCarthy's Megan seemingly has love—or at least a hook-up—on the brain, as she hilariously overshares to Kristen Wiig's Annie. 

“I’ve Already Gone Through The Five Stages Of Grieving: Denial, Anger…I Don’t Remember These Two But They Were Served On The Rocks With Salt!” - Gilmore Girls

One of the best episodes of Gilmore Girls is Season 3's "Deep-Fried Korean Thanksgiving," in which Lorelai (Lauren Graham) and Rory (Alexis Bledel) feast their way through a whopping four holiday dinners. The funniest scene finds Sookie (McCarthy) nursing several drinks to deal with the horror of her husband deep-frying not only the Thanksgiving turkey but everything at the table, including the napkins. 

"I Want To Apologize. I'm Not Even Confident On Which End That Came Out Of." - Bridesmaids

The only thing funnier than Bridesmaids' Megan Price dealing with simultaneous burps and farts is that she does so in full formalwear and, as the bridal-shop worker horrifyingly realizes, while standing on a white carpet. 

"Crying A Little, But Not Blubbering. That's What We Meant When We Said No Crying. No Blubbering." - Gilmore Girls

Sookie's reaction to Rory graduating high school in Season 3 of Gilmore Girls was equal parts silly and sweet—the sentiment was clearly heartfelt but the over-the-top waterworks happening on McCarthy's face were downright hilarious. 

"I Took Nine. I Took Nine. Yeah, I Did Slightly Overcommit To The Whole Dog Thing. It Turns Out I'm Probably More Comfortable With Six." - Bridesmaids

We really can't blame Megan (McCarthy) for secretly snagging more than one "party favor"—i.e. an adorable Labrador puppy—from Lilian's (Maya Rudolph) bridal shower. Just look at how cute they are in their little bowties!

"Female Fight Club. We Grease Up, We Pull In. Lillian Doesn't Know, So it's, 'Surprise! We're going to fight!'" - Bridesmaids

Compared to the usual bachelorette party ideas—you know, a Las Vegas weekend, a trip to a luxurious spa, and so on—Megan's idea of a "female fight club" was clearly a bit more unorthodox than the ladies of Bridesmaids had in mind. They may have shut down her idea but at least it gave us one of the best lines from the beloved comedy. 

"I'd Like To Rear Up And Jackknife My Legs And Kick You Both In The Jaw With My Foot Bone!" - This Is 40

Any scene populated by the likes of Melissa McCarthy, Paul Rudd, and Leslie Mann is going to be ridiculously funny, and that's certainly the case for this hilariously hostile principal's office meeting in This is 40. The only thing better is the bloopers!

"I Swear To God, That Dolphin Looked, Not At Me, But Into My Soul, Into My Goddamn Soul, Annie. And He Said, 'I'm Saving You Megan.' Not With His Mouth, But He Said It, I'm Assuming, Telepathically." - Bridesmaids

McCarthy's Bridesmaids character has had quite a life, from working for the U.S. government to knowing the nuclear codes, but Megan's revelation that she had a spiritual experience with a dolphin after falling off a cruise ship might just be the wildest backstory we've heard in a while. 

"Oh My God, Rayna. Thank God Your Hair Broke Your Fall." - Spy

With the sheer amount of hair that Rose Byrne sports in Spy—director Paul Feig described it to Vulture as an "elaborate Marie Antoinette–meets–Donald Trump" 'do that was "the most complicated hairstyle" he'd ever seen in his life—we're not surprised that it served as the subject of one of Melissa McCarthy's funniest quotes. 

"It Was A Terrible Resume. He Mentioned Prison, And In Special Skills He Said, 'Keeping It Real.'" - The Heat

Only a comedian as gifted as Melissa McCarthy could make a scene about a family tragedy—in this case, her character's brother entering a coma in The Heat, which prompts her to reminisce about her bro's less-than-stellar CV—have as much humor as heart. 

"You Were A Good Cake, Clyde. I Never Should Have Named You." - Gilmore Girls

McCarthy's Gilmore Girls character Sookie St. James was known for both her bubbly enthusiasm and serious culinary skills. Both traits were clearly on display while the chef was whipping up a wedding cake for her BFF Lorelai (Lauren Graham), only for the latter to end up canceling the nuptials. R.I.P. Clyde!

"I'm Just Looking For A Reasonable Ratio Of Wontons To Soup, This Is Madness!" - Ghostbusters

We love that for Ghostbusters' Abby Yates (McCarthy), an unsatisfactory soup ratio is dubbed "madness," especially in a movie where the physicist is regularly dealing with paranormal encounters and multidimensional vortexes. 

"Raise your right hand and say, 'May Destiny's Child break up if I count these blueberries.'" - Gilmore Girls

We love the prickly friendship between inn coworkers Sookie (McCarthy) and Michel (Yanic Truesdale) in Gilmore Girls, especially when Michel is on one of his super strict diets and Sookie is hilariously tempting him with a freshly made sweet treat. 

"I Tried A Dorito For The First Time Last Night. It Wasn't Cheese. It Was... Cheese Adjacent, But Not Cheese. It Was Really Good!" - The Boss

A Dorito is a pretty standard snack for the majority of us, but for Michelle Darnell (McCarthy)—a mega-wealthy woman who, after being arrested and losing her fortune, is forced to sell scout cookies to fix her finances—it's an exciting foray into the lower classes. 

"This Car Makes Me Ovulate. I Want To Have Shiny Purple Lamborghini Babies." - Thunder Force

There are plenty of cool gadgets in Thunder Force, the 2021 Netflix superhero comedy starring Melissa McCarthy and her IRL BFF Octavia Spencer as an unlikely crime-fighting superhero duo working to stop a rise of supervillains known as Miscreants. But it's a shiny muscle car that had McCarthy's character drooling and movie audiences cracking up. 

"I Want To Chime In And Be Supportive, But I Don't Know What You're Talking About." - Gilmore Girls

Those Gilmore gals were known for their fast-talking, which Melissa McCarthy praised of her co-star Lauren Graham—they were heavily caffeinated for seven straight seasons, after all—so it's not that surprising that every once in a while, Sookie would glaze over while listening to her best friend Lorelai speed-ramble.

"You Touched My Upper Breast...I Have Very High Nipples!" - This Is 40

In one memorable scene from This is 40, Peter (Paul Rudd) gets into an argument with Catherine (Melissa McCarthy) about her tween son, whom she claims was bullied by Peter's wife (Leslie Mann). Soon the discussion devolves into insults, threats and awkwardly placed pokes that, according to Catherine, were not on her shoulder after all. 

"That Makes Me So Mad And So Sad. I'm Smad!" - Gilmore Girls

When chef Sookie (McCarthy) gets the news from Lorelai (Lauren Graham) that the inn's big Bracebridge Dinner is off because the group is stuck in Chicago due to bad weather, she's hilariously left dealing with a wide range of emotions. 

"You Wanna Get Back In That Restroom And Not Rest?" - Bridesmaids

Megan's attempted mid-flight seduction of her seatmate Air Marshall John in Bridesmaids is all the funnier when you realize that John is played by Melissa McCarthy's real-life husband and frequent collaborator Ben Falcone.

"Oh God, Your Beard Smells Like Sandwiches, That's Nice." - Identity Thief

During their hijinks-filled road trip in Identity Thief, Sandy (Jason Bateman) comes upon Diana (McCarthy) at a bar drunkenly cozying up to a cowboy-hatted fella known simply as Big Chuck (Eric Stonestreet), whose dance moves and sandwich-scented facial hair sparked her fancy. 

"I'm Here To Swallow Gum And I'm Here To Take Names!" - Saturday Night Live

SNL's presidential impersonations are legendary, but we have a soft spot for the POTUS-adjacent impression that McCarthy whipped up in Season 42 as Sean Spicer, the White House Communications Director under President Donald Trump. Her version saw the former press secretary riding a motorized podium, wearing high heels and chewing ridiculous amounts of bubblegum. 

"Not Me, Nope, Physically, I Don't Bloat." - Bridesmaids

Fellow bridesmaid Helen (Rose Byrne) might not like the idea of eating such a big lunch before a dress fitting but Megan (McCarthy) hilariously claims that she doesn't have to worry about bloating, even as she feasts her way through worryingly grey meat. 

"I'll Shut The Door On You. Will You Lay Down Here And Put Your Head In The Door? Then I'll Slam It About 157 Thousand Times." - The Heat

Though they end up being good partners in The Heat, the initial meeting between Detective Shannon Mullins (McCarthy) and Special Agent Sarah Ashburn (Sandra Bullock) is less than chummy, with Shannon less than enthused about Sarah taking over the interrogation of one of her perps.

"This Isn't Funny! I Am Now Desperate, Lonely And A Criminal!" - Gilmore Girls

Chef Sookie's romance with produce vendor Jackson Belleville (Jackson Douglas) is one of the sweetest parts of Gilmore Girls, but their relationship kicked off on a funny note with this first-date freakout, in which Sookie worried that her simply asking Jackson out was akin to sexual harassment. 

"Her Lady Business Is Like An Old Dirty Attic Full Of Broken Christmas Lights And Doll Shoes." - The Heat

When Shannon (McCarthy) had to turn down Robin's (Andy Buckley) advances in The Heat, she assured him, "There's a girl out there for you," and offered up Special Agent Sarah Ashburn (Sandra Bullock) as an alternative—but, of course, not before fully making fun of her. 

"It's so romantic. 'Oh Romeo...blah blah blah and the blah." - Gilmore Girls

Sookie St. James (McCarthy) may know her way around a professional kitchen but may be a little fuzzy on Shakespeare's literary repertoire, as seen in the Gilmore Girls Season 2 episode where Rory (Alexis Bledel) is tasked with portraying Juliet in her school's play. 

"Quiet! I love you, too, now get out." - Mike & Molly

After meeting at an Overeaters Anonymous meeting, Mike (Billy Gardell) and Molly (McCarthy) kick off a romantic relationship throughout the first season of their eponymous CBS sitcom. That culminates with a proposal that takes place right in front of Molly's class of eight-year-olds, which adds a welcome dose of comedy to the sweet moment. 

While the list of A-listers who have joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe is long and diverse, another list that’s worth looking into is the wild group of actors, performers and others who have said yes to doing cameos. So, in celebration of those folks, here are the 32 best cameos in the MCU. 

Harry Styles As Eros In The Eternals 

Big names pop up in the MCU all the time, however, they’re almost always well-known actors. While Harry Styles has had a few acting roles, it’s not his primary profession, so yes, it was shocking when the singer showed up as Eros, Thanos’ brother, in the post-credits scene of The Eternals. However, since the film’s release in 2021, Styles’ future in the MCU has remained unknown, leaving his role as simply a cameo and nothing more.  

Blake Lively As Lady Deadpool In Deadpool & Wolverine 

Leading into Deadpool & Wolverine’s release, the speculation about who would play Lady Deadpool was running rampant. However, it wasn’t all too shocking when it was revealed that Ryan Reynolds’ wife Blake Lively was playing the female variant of her partner’s merc with the mouth.  

Sam Neill As Odin’s Actor In Thor: Ragnarok 

While the Thor: Ragnarok cast is stacked with legends like Chris Hemsworth, Anthony Hopkins, Mark Ruffalo, Jeff Goldblum and more, Taika Waititi also assembled quite the ensemble of cameos to play a troupe of actors in Asgard who put on a play about Thor and his family. This included Jurassic Park’s Sam Neill, who portrayed Anthony Hopkins’ King of Asgard, Odin.  

Stan Lee As Various Characters 

While future MCU projects sadly won’t have any in-person Stan Lee cameos, we can always re-watch the Marvel movies in order to see the legendary comic writer. Before his death in 2018, Stan Lee made cameos in just about every Marvel project, whether it was from Marvel Studios, Fox or Sony. 

Some fan-favorite cameos from him included his role as a security guard in Captain America: The Winter Solider, a New York resident being interviewed on the news in The Avengers and an astronaut telling a story to the Watchers in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, among many, many, many others. 

Matt Damon As Loki’s Actor In Thor: Ragnarok 

In the play Loki orchestrated in Thor: Ragnarok that tells the (not so true) story of him and his family, Matt Damon was cast to play the role of Tom Hiddleston’s God of Mischief. Which honestly, is inspired casting. Damon also popped in the non-MCU Deadpool 2. 

Kevin Bacon As Himself In Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special

Bringing a joke from Guardians of the Galaxy full circle almost eight years later, Peter’s hero Kevin Bacon finally appears. However, it’s kind of against his will, because Drax and Mantis decide to go to Earth and steal the Footloose actor to give to Chris Pratt’s character as a gift of holiday cheer.  

Miley Cyrus As Mainframe In Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2

In Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, we see a group of Ravagers approach The Guardians. One of them is a robot head named Mainframe, and it's voiced by Miley Cyrus.

Trevor Noah As Griot In Black Panther

Much like how Paul Bettany voiced J.A.R.V.I.S., Trevor Noah voiced Griot, Shuri’s artificial intelligence she uses at her lab in Wakanda in Black Panther. 

Melissa McCarthy As Hela’s Actress In Thor: Love and Thunder 

Adding to the mix of A-listers playing actors who are playing Thor characters (try saying that five times fast), Melissa McCarthy took on the role of Cate Blanchett’s Hela – the goddess of death – in Thor: Love and Thunder. She joined the theatrical company that already featured Sam Neill, Matt Damon and Luke Hemsworth to reenact the events of Thor: Ragnarok in Taika Waititi’s second movie about the God of Thunder.

Kenneth Branagh As Asgardian Distress Call In Avengers: Infinity War

You probably know that Kenneth Branagh directed the first Thor movie. However, what you might not know is he provided a meaningful Easter egg for Avengers: Infinity War. He voiced the Asgardian Distress Call that was played after Thanos attacked their ship. 

Luke Hemsworth As Thor’s Actor In Thor: Ragnarok 

Who else could play Chris Hemsworth’s Thor in an Asgardian play about the adventures of the God of Thunder and his family? Truly, picking Luke Hemsworth to play his real-life brother’s character was fantastic! The added bonus that makes all this even better is their other brother, Liam Hemsworth also auditioned to play the god back in the day. 

Bruce Campbell As Pizza Poppa In Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness saw director Sam Raimi’s return to the superhero genre. With him came his The Evil Dead star Bruce Campbell, who played Pizza Poppa in the Doctor Strange movie. 

Bill Maher As Himself In Iron Man 3

During a montage of news clips in Iron Man 3, Bill Maher pops up as they’re talking about War Machine’s rebrand into The Iron Patriot. 

Charlie Cox As Daredevil In Spider-Man: No Way Home

If you saw Spider-Man: No Way Home in theaters on opening night, you likely heard applause when Charlie Cox made his big-screen MCU debut as Matt Murdock. While he played Daredevil for three seasons on his Netflix show, and he has returned as the character since this cameo where he was giving Peter Parker legal advice, this was the first time we’d seen Cox back in action in years. 

Tom Morello As Gaurd In Iron Man

Rage Against the Machine’s Tom Morello made one of the first cameos in the MCU when he popped up for a quick second in Iron Man. In the movie, he played a guard in the Ten Rings camp that Tony Stark was being held at. 

Joan Rivers As Herself In Iron Man 3

Along with Bill Maher and a bunch of other TV personalities, Joan Rivers popped up to rib on War Machine’s rebranding in Iron Man 3. 

Harry Dean Stanton As Security Guard In The Avengers

In The Avengers, there’s a security guard who finds Bruce Banner after he crashes into the Earth as Hulk. That guard is played by Harry Dean Stanton, who is best known for his roles in classic films like Alien, The Green Mile, Paris Texas and Repo Man. 

Justin Theroux As Police Officer In Iron Man 2

Not only did Justin Theroux write Iron Man 2, but he also had the smallest blink-and-you-’ll-miss-it cameo, per CBR. He played one of the police officers who arrested Justin Hammer and escorted Pepper Potts off the premises toward the end of the film. 

Rob Zombie As Ravager Navigator In Guardians of the Galaxy

In many of James Gunn’s movies, Rob Zombie makes a cameo. After doing that for Slither and Super, he lent his voice to his friend's first Marvel movie by voicing a Ravager Navigator in Guardians of the Galaxy. 

Megan Thee Stallion As Herself In She-Hulk: Attorney at Law

We can thank Jameela Jamil for Megan Thee Stallion’s incredible cameo in She-Hulk. The rapper appeared in an episode of the Disney+ show during a courtroom scene, and then she popped up one more time to twerk with the titular attorney. 

David Hasselhoff As Himself In Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2

When Chris Pratt’s Peter Quill was a kid he’d pretend that David Hasselhoff was his dad. So, in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 Hasselhoff was part of one of the songs on the soundtrack – “Guardians Inferno” –  and it plays during the end credits. And at the very end of those credits, you can see his face pop up as he says the final words of the song. Talk about an epic cameo.

Brett Goldstein As Hercules In Thor: Love and Thunder

In the post-credit scene for Thor: Love and Thunder, Brett Goldstein appeared as Hercules. In his brief scene, he was shown speaking with Russell Crowe’s Zeus. It was thrilling to see the Ted Lasso star show up as the son of Zeus, however, it’s been years since that happened, and he hasn’t shown up again. 

Ken Jeong As Security Guard In Avengers: Endgame

Before the Russo Brothers were making big fancy Marvel movies, they worked on Community. So, it’s always fun to see actors from that show pop up in the MCU. For example in Avengers: Endgame, Ken Jeong appeared for a quick cameo as a security guard who is watching over the storage unit that Ant-Man’s van is in. 

Nathan Fillion As Monstrous Inmate In Guardians of the Galaxy And Headpool In Deadpool And Wolverine

You can see Nathan Fillion (looking like himself) as a major member of the supporting cast in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, as he plays Master Karja. However, before that, he had a cameo in James Gunn’s first Guardians movie, because he voiced “Monstrous Inmate.” After that, he voiced Headpool during the Deadpool variant fight in Deadpool and Wolverine. 

Brad Pitt As The Vanisher In Deadpool 2

Now, I fully realize Deadpool 2 wasn’t technically in the MCU, but Deadpool and Wolverine is, so this counts. One of the most fun cameos maybe ever came when Brad Pitt appeared for a split second in the Ryan Reynolds-led sequel to play The Vanisher right as he gets electrocuted. 

Joe Russo As Grieving Man In Avengers: Endgame

Joe and Anthony Russo are best known as the guys behind the camera who led some of the best Marvel movies, including Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Captain America: Civil War, Avengers: Infinity War, and, of course, Avengers: Endgame. So, in this big finale for the MCU’s Infinity Saga, Joe Russo made a cameo as part of Steve Rogers' support group. 

Yvette Nicole Brown As S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent In Avengers: Endgame

The Russo Brothers didn’t forget their roots, and included multiple members of the Community cast in their Marvel movies. This included Yvette Nicole Brown, who played a S.H.I.E.L.D. agent that Tony Stark and Steve Rogers run into when they go back in time to steal Pym Particles. 

David Bradley As Tower Keeper In Captain America: The First Avenger

David Bradley is a legendary British character actor, and you’ll likely recognize him for his role as Filch in the Harry Potter cast or as The Doctor in various episodes of Doctor Who. He also notably played a small role as the Tower Keeper protecting the Tesseract in Captain America: The First Avenger.

Danny Pudi As Com Tech #1 In Captain America: The Winter Soldier

The Russo Brothers adore their Community cast, so in their first Marvel movie, they gave Danny Pudi, Abed himself, a little cameo. For a brief minute, you can see him as Com Tech #1 during the beloved Captain America sequel. 

Garrett Morris As Car Driver In Ant-Man

While Ant-Man himself is played by a comedy legend, that actor being Paul Rudd, there’s another hilarious icon in this cast. Yep, original Saturday Night Live cast member Garrett Morris (who actually dressed up as the superhero on the sketch comedy show back in the day) appeared in this movie as a man driving a car that Ant-Man fell onto, and it’s fantastic!

Matthew McConaughey As Cowboypool In Deadpool and Wolverine

When all the variants of Deadpool appeared to fight Deadpool and Wolverine, one of them was Cowboypool. Fittingly, the Western Merc with the Mouth was voiced by Matthew McConaughey.

Henry Cavill As Cavillrine In Deadpool and Wolverine

When Wade Wilson was looking for a Wolverine to bring back to his universe, he came across one version of Logan who was played by Henry Cavill. After seeing fanart of the former Superman as the X-Man, it was clear he was a good fit for the part, and it was incredible to see Deadpool and Wolverine act on the fans’ wishes. 

As you can see the range of these cameos is wide, and frankly legendary. And we’re sure that as Marvel continues to release movies and TV shows, the iconic cameos will keep coming. 

How does a person go about becoming a comedy legend? Well, one good way to begin your journey is studying the art with the Los Angeles-based improv and sketch comedy troupe, The Groundlings, which has proven to be a breeding ground for many of the funniest people you have ever heard of, including quite a few Saturday Night Live cast members. Take a look at some of the most esteemed Groundlings alumni who went on to rule at Studio 8H or elsewhere.

Maya Rudolph

In an op-ed for Oprah.com, Maya Rudolph described The Groundlings as her “graduate school,” where she “ate, slept, and drank improv and sketch comedy” for four years, and even learned how to use her singing voice for comedic purposes. That skill would come in handy for her impersonations of musicians like Beyoncé and, arguably, the actor’s single funniest SNL sketch in which she takes far too long (and explores various vocal ranges) to sing the National Anthem at the World Series.

Paul Reubens

The world would have never been blessed with the iconic Pee-wee Herman if not for the Groundlings, which is where the late Paul Reubens first developed the fun-loving man-child in the 1970s. The character was actually a collaborative effort with future SNL star and fellow member Phil Hartman, who also worked with Reubens and others on the screenplay for 1985’s Pee-wee’s Big Adventure.

Will Forte

Will Forte told Diablo magazine that, after feeling miserable at his job as a financial broker, he changed his career path by joining The Groundlings in the early 1990s. Around a decade later, he was invited to be on SNL, where he specialized in some really weird sketches like “Spelling Bee” and “Potato Chip.”

Melissa McCarthy

While never a cast member, Melissa McCarthy went on to become known as one of the best SNL hosts in the show’s history. The Academy Award nominee earned her sketch comedy chops while a part of the Groundlings, which is also where she developed the character she played in 2016’s The Boss.

Phil Hartman

In the same year SNL started, the late, great Phil Hartman was preparing for his own tenure on the series at The Groundlings. It was more than a decade later, in 1986, when he would finally become part of the cast, working the magic he learned taking classes with the troupe.

Lisa Kudrow

Years before playing Phoebe Buffay in the Friends cast made her a star, Lisa Kudrow was part of The Groundlings, studying improv under teacher Cynthia Szigeti. She was also part of a short-lived troupe called Unexpected Company with Conan O’Brien and was the only female member of the Transformer Comedy Troupe for a while. 

Ana Gasteyer

During her six years on SNL, Ana Gasteyer mastered multiple characters — such as Bobbie Mohan-Culp — and spot-on celebrity portrayals, from Martha Stewart to Celine Dion. The Happiest Season cast member developed her impeccable sense of humor while performing with The Groundlings.

Tim Matheson

Two-time Emmy nominee Tim Matheson is not thought of as a comedic actor these days but, lest we forget, one of his earlier major roles was Otter in National Lampoon’s Animal House. Before then, he was learning how to be a comedic actor by studying improv under The Groundlings.

Kristen Wiig

Many of Kristen Wiig’s funniest quotes originated from her time at Saturday Night Live. However, she spoke most of those lines while portraying characters that really date back to her time with The Groundlings, such as Target Lady and harsh movie critic, Aunt Linda.

Craig T. Nelson

Despite plenty of roles that are not much to laugh at — such as Steve Freeling in Poltergeist or Jack Mannion on The District — Craig T. Nelson can also put down “Emmy-winning sitcom star” on his resume for playing Hayden Fox on Coach. His comedic chops do make more sense when you learn that the Incredibles star actually would break into the business performing stand-up and became a Groundlings members in the troupe’s early days.

Will Ferrell

Improvisational comedy would become a staple of Will Ferrell’s post-SNL career, as many of the funniest lines from his most famous movies — including Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy and Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby — are largely ad-libbed. The actor would develop this skill while performing with The Groundlings, which he joined in 1994 — only a year before being invited to audition for SNL producer Lorne Michaels.

Cassandra Peterson

You may know Cassandra Peterson better as Elvira, a character whom the actor would portray when presenting midnight movies on TV or in her own cult favorite movies. Peterson’s creation of the “mistress of the dark” originates from her time with The Groundlings, where she developed a “Valley Girl-esque” character who would later evolve into the “horror host” we all know and love.

Jon Lovitz

Most of the SNL characters that Jon Lovitz is most famous for — such as the self-obsessed Master Thespian and pathological liar Tommy Flanagan — actually never originated at Studio 8H. The actor and comedian first developed them when he was part of the Groundlings, which is also where he met his friend and collaborator, Phil Hartman.

Kathy Griffin

After seeing a live performance of The Groundlings, a then-19-year-old Kathy Griffin knew exactly what she wanted to do with her life. She went on to join the troupe in the early 1990s before pursuing stand-up and becoming a more prominent figure with appearances in movies like Pulp Fiction and her Emmy-winning reality show, Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List.

Laraine Newman

Being a part of the Not-Ready-For-Primetime Players in SNL’s infancy and portraying characters like Connie Conehead made Laraine Newman a comedy icon, but her prior background before hitting Studio 8H is particularly astonishing. After studying miming under Marcel Marceau in Paris in 1970, she became a founding member of The Groundlings when she moved to Los Angeles.

Jennifer Coolidge

Jennifer Coolidge’s road to becoming a renowned comedy icon has been a long one, having made her screen acting debut on Seinfeld in the early 1990s before playing “Stifler’s Mom” in the American Pie movies and winning two Emmy Awards for her role in HBO’s The White Lotus cast. At one point, she had the chance to perfect her skills as part of The Groundlings, whom she performed with for nearly a decade.

Chris Parnell

Before his memorable, eight-year tenure on SNL, Chris Parnell made his breakthrough into the business in the early ‘90s performing improv with The Groundlings for a number of years. These days, the actor is best recognized for his voice, which is also the voice of Cyril on Archer and Jerry on Rick and Morty.

Pat Morita

It may come as a surprise to some that, before his Academy Award-nominated role as Mr. Miyagi in The Karate Kid movies made him an icon, Pat Morita got his start as a stand-up comedian. The L.A. native was even part of The Groundlings in the 1970s, around the time he landed his recurring role as Arnold on Happy Days.

Chris Kattan

Following in the footsteps of his father, Kip King, Chris Kattan became part of The Groundlings, which is how he met Will Ferrell and, with him, created the characters who came to be known as “the Butabi brothers” during their time there. Later, they both wound up at SNL where they introduced the dim-witting club-goers to the mainstream, earned their own SNL movie (A Night at the Roxbury), and the rest is history. 

Phil LaMarr

Phil LaMarr is best known for his brief role in Pulp Fiction, his extensive voice acting career, and for becoming an original cast member on the hit sketch comedy series, Mad TV, where he played characters like Jaq the UBS Guy. Early on, however, the actor was actually part of a few different comedy troupes, including The Groundlings and Second City.

Cheri Oteri

One of the most talented members of the SNL cast during the mid-to-late ‘90s was Cheri Oteri, who is probably best known as Spartan cheerleader, Arianna. She was given the opportunity to join the sketch comedy series while she was part of The Groundlings, with whom she is still known to perform on occasion.

Mikey Day

Performing improv with The Groundlings led Mikey Day to become an original regular cast member on Nick Cannon’s improv comedy show, Wild ’n Out, on MTV in 2005. By 2013 — having acted and written in several other projects — he became a valued member of the SNL cast and its writing staff, for which he, Bobby Moynihan, and Seidell created the sketch that introduced the world to David S. Pumpkins, as played by Tom Hanks.

Heidi Gardner

Missouri native Heidi Gardner was working as a hairstylist in L.A. when she attended a performance by The Groundlings and became inspired to pursue acting. After working her way up in the ranks at the troupe and landing voice acting gigs, she was hired on SNL in 2017 and quickly became known as one of the show’s most dynamic performers.

Michael McDonald

The MVP at Mad TV has to be Michael McDonald (not to be confused with the musician), whose early days in comedy included performing improv with The Groundlings. In fact — as he recalled on Comedy Central’s This Is Not Happening — Academy Award winner Faye Dunaway saw him at one of his shows with the troupe and enlisted his help in honing her comedy skills.

Julia Sweeney

Julia Sweeney’s most iconic contribution to Saturday Night Live is her role as a person of indeterminant gender known only as Pat. She would first invent the character — who later inspired a movie called It’s Pat in 1994 — while performing with the Groundlings, along with other famous characters of her own — including Mea Culpa.

Jim Rash

Jim Rash is one of the most accomplished comedy talents of his time, having stolen the show from his fellow Community cast members as Dean Craig Pelton and earned an Academy Award alongside his longtime writing partner Nat Faxon, for penning the screenplay for Alexander Payne’s 2011 adaptation of The Descendants. Rash actually first met Faxon while both of them were performing with The Groundlings in the early 2000s.

Taran Killam

Even before Taran Killam joined The Groundlings, he was already well-versed in show business — having made his acting debut in The Naked Gun 33-1/3: The Final Insult, becoming a major presence on Nickelodeon’s The Amanda Show and even joining Mad TV for 2001-2002 season. In fact, it was not until two years after he was hired on SNL in 2010 that he officially retired from The Groundlings’ main company.

Wendi McLendon-Covey

Nearly a decade after joining The Groundlings in 2002, Wendi McLendon-Covey collaborated with fellow troupe veterans of Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph, and Melissa McCarthy as part of the Bridesmaids cast in 2011. Just a couple of years later, the comedian would begin to earn raves for her leading role in the hit ABC sitcom, The Goldbergs.

Michaela Watkins

Despite earning acclaim for her unique characters — most notably tech whiz Angie Tempura —  and hilarious celebrity impersonations of Barbara Walters, Hoda Kotb, and more, Michaela Watkins ended up lasting only one year at SNL before she was let go in 2009. At least her career since has proven to be very successful — let alone the fact that she can say she was a regular performer with The Groundlings for several years.

Jillian Bell

While she never made it on Saturday Night Live as a cast member, Jillian Bell did write for the show during its 35th Season, before going on to appear in Bridesmaids and star in the likes of Workaholics, 22 Jump Street, and Brittany Runs a Marathon. Years before those career milestones, the actor joined The Groundlings soon after moving to Los Angeles. 

Edie McClurg

Multi-generational audiences should recognize Edie McClurg from the Ferris Bueller’s Day Off cast as Ed Rooney’s assistant, Grace, who referred to Matthew Broderick’s title character as a “righteous dude.” Said famous line was actually an ad-lib, which should come as no surprise to anyone who knows her history with The Groundlings, which she performed with in the 1970s.

Tim Bagley

Tim Bagley is a comedian known best for his many notable recurring roles on series like Will & Grace and Monk. He first broke into the industry in the late 1980s as a performer for The Groundlings, whom he continues to perform with from time to time.

Whether or not you end up on SNL or even do something greater, The Groundlings is a great place for aspiring comedic actors to get started.

After Jerry Seinfeld starred in his eponymous sitcom Seinfeld — famously, a show about nothing — for nine seasons, there’s something fitting about the comedian making his feature directorial debut with a movie based on the origin of the Pop-Tart. The new comedy Unfrosted is now available to stream with a Netflix subscription, but critics had the chance to screen it early so as to better help us decide if we want to pop our favorite breakfast pastry in the toaster and fire this movie up this weekend.

Unfrosted stars Jerry Seinfeld alongside an ensemble cast that includes Hugh Grant — strangely, in his third role as an orange character of late — Melissa McCarthy, Jim Gaffigan, Amy Schumer and literally dozens of other recognizable names. In CinemaBlend’s review of Unfrosted, Mike Reyes says that while the movie doesn’t come close to an accurate depiction of the Pop-Tart’s origin story, it’s still “inspired comic anarchy.” Reyes rates the film 4 out of 5 stars, writing: 

Liz Shannon Miller of Consequence grades the movie a B, writing that the quasi-biopic feels like a true labor of love for Jerry Seinfeld, who appears to be simply a comedian having a good time with other funny people as they create something truly absurd. Miller continues: 

Comedy is certainly subjective, and that’s blatantly demonstrated here, as Chicago Sun-Times critic Richard Roeper fails to find any redeeming qualities within Unfrosted. He gives the movie just 1 star out of 4, pulling no punches as he labels it “one of the decade's worst movies.” In Roeper’s words: 

David Ehrlich of IndieWire gives Unfrosted a D, saying that Jerry Seinfeld et al. try a million different ways to make the pastry wars feel like life or death, rather than just focusing on one good way to do it. So many absurd things are happening that it ultimately feels like a movie about nothing. Ehrlich explains: 

Brian Eggert of Deep Focus Review is baffled at how such a talented cast could come together to produce such a stinker. There are no laughs to be found here, Eggert says, scoring the movie a 1.5 out of 4. The critic writes:  

The critics are certainly split on this one, with Unfrosted receiving a Rotten Tomatoes score of 44% from more than 40 critics. Jerry Seinfeld’s brand of breakfast-inspired comedy was definitely not some critics’ cup of coffee, but others have embraced the absurdity of it all. If you want to give this one a shot, it is available to stream now on Netflix. Also be sure to see what else is new and coming soon to Netflix. 

The 2024 SAG Awards were truly an occasion for celebrating both for those in attendance and those streaming with a Netflix subscription. The event was populated with stars, with several fun match-ups for presenters, seeing as how pop culture reunions are a staple of the SAG Awards. Both the Breaking Bad ensemble and the cast of The Devil Wears Prada reunited for the occasion, while one unexpectedly fun exchange happened between Billie Eilish and Melissa McCarthy, whose great bit really got audiences laughing when the “Bad Guy” singer signed the Bridesmaids star's forehead. Of course, the internet had the best responses.

When Eilish and McCarthy took the stage to present Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series, it became quickly apparent that hilarity would ensue. The Mike and Molly alum expressed her love for the pop star, and asked Eilish to sign her forehead. The “Ocean Eyes” artist rather quickly obliged and signed McCarthy’s forehead with a Sharpie. She could barely keep it together while doing so, and giggled the entire time, as seen in the viral clip from Netflix below: 

The crowd of actors was laughing at the ridiculous bit the whole time, especially considering how long it took Billie Eilish to finish signing McCarthy’s forehead. One fan thought the it was hilarious, expressing their delight on X, saying: 

This was a sentiment shared by many, with some also expressing confusion, albeit the happiest version possible, over the goofy situation. A X user said: 

Another X user tipped their cap off of whoever paired these two superstars together, as they had electric on stage chemistry that kept audiences laughing. They said:

Another fan agreed that pairing these two together was an unexpected delight, and made many want more from this duo. They said on X:

Billie Eilish fans also felt it was a treat to see the Grammy winner’s signature on full display, with some thinking about how they could get the singer’s signature on their own bodies. One superfan posted on X:

McCarthy has yet to post a close-up picture of her temporary ink, but I’m not sure anyone making such signage permanent is a good thing. Still, I’m loving this enthusiasm. 

The SAG Awards is one of the last lead-up ceremonies before the Oscars, and many 2024 Oscar nominees were present at the SAG Awards. It’s safe to say a lot of the stars are probably tired from their long awards campaigns, but McCarthy and Eilish were still able to brighten up the ceremony, and everyone seemed to love their chemistry. I’m sure that Sharpie was probably not the easiest to remove from McCarthy’s forehead, and the comedic actress certainly made a sacrifice for the joke to land. When it comes to Melissa McCarthy, though, I wouldn’t expect anything else than full commitment to a bit. 

This moment between Billie Eilish and Melissa McCarthy  was one of many great presentations at this weekend’s SAG Awards. If you missed the broadcast, you can revisit all the glitz and glamor as the full ceremony is streaming now. You can also see McCarthy being hilarious in many of her movie roles, which are also streaming on various platforms. Fans of Eilish can also check out the singer’s acting debut in Swarm, which is currently available for Amazon Prime subscribers.

Seeing A-list celebrities on SNL is certainly nothing out of the ordinary, considering there is a different one hosting the show each week, even including non-actors who end up nailing it. Lorne Michaels and company have still managed to shock the Studio 8H audience numerous times by bringing out a public figure whom no one could have guessed was going to be part of the show. The following are some of our all-time favorite Saturday Night Live celebrity cameos.

Leonardo DiCaprio (Season 39)

In Jonah Hill’s third SNL monologue, the Academy Award nominee is bombarded by questions about working with Leonardo DiCaprio before trying to convince the audience that the future Oscar winner was not even supposed to be in The Wolf of Wall Street initially. Just then, the Titanic cast member himself walks on to knock some sense into his co-star before agreeing to recreate the famous “We’re flying!” scene from the Best Picture Oscar winner. 

Barack Obama (Season 33)

In the cold open for SNL’s 2007 Halloween show, a spooky party hosted by Bill (Darrell Hammond) and Hilary Clinton (Amy Poehler) is crashed by an unexpected guest in a Barack Obama mask. The stranger removes the rubber face to reveal he is actually the future 44th President of the United States in the flesh.

Barbra Streisand (Season 17)

A recurring topic in Mike Myers’ “Coffee Talk” sketches was Linda Richman’s obsession with Barbra Streisand, who shocked the host and her guests (played by Madonna and Roseanne Barr) by briefly walking on the set to greet them in one sketch. According to Barbra Archives, Myers had been informed that the Oscar-winning Funny Girl star might show up, but Madonna and Barr’s shocked reactions were completely genuine.

Robert De Niro (Season 26)

Academy Award winner Robert De Niro never hosted SNL until 2002, but made multiple surprise appearances beforehand, such as the time he showed up on “Weekend Update.” The cameo was in response to Jimmy Fallon’s unfavorable review of 2000’s Meet the Parents, which Fallon tries to defend with his impersonation of the acting legend, who turns the tables by imitating him at the end.

Kel Mitchell (Season 48)

A pre-taped segment imagines a reboot of the classic Nickelodeon comedy, Kenan & Kel, but with host Keke Palmer as a new character named Kelly. However, the bit ends wonderfully with an appearance of Kenan Thompson’s original co-star, Kel Mitchell, who actually auditioned for SNL once before, to no avail

Judge Judy (Season 24)

Cheri Oteri made an impact on SNL in a short time with memorable characters and hilarious impersonations — especially that of Judge Judy. However, the honorable TV personality herself proved that no one “rules” like the original when she interrupted one of Oteri’s parodies of her court show.

Sarah Paulson (Season 48)

In a sketch poking fun at his internet persona, host Pedro Pascal plays a teacher whose students have made viral videos honoring him as a surrogate “daddy” and another teacher name Ms. Jenny as “mommy.” Entering the room to the crowd’s surprise as Ms. Jenny is the Last of Us cast member’s good friend, Emmy winner Sarah Paulson.

Taylor Swift (Season 49)

Even after her boyfriend — one of the funniest pro athletes to host SNL, Travis Kelce — made a surprise appearance in the same episode (hosted by Pete Davidson), no one anticipated Taylor Swift would show up in the Season 48 opener to introduce musical guest Ice Spice’s second performance. Reportedly, neither of these cameos were planned and were put together last minute when the Grammy-winning superstar and Kansas City Chiefs tight end happened to show up at 30 Rock.

Jason Momoa (Season 45)

In a courtroom-style sketch starring Chance the Rapper as a judge who rules purely by first impressions, one of the defendants is played by Jason Momoa, who already has the host in stitches with his ridiculous wardrobe. However, the Aquaman actor suddenly cannot stop laughing after accidentally referring to himself as a “paraplegic,” when he meant to say “paralegal.”

Eminem (Season 46)

Pete Davidson plays a young man named Stu who writes a series of increasingly erratic letters asking Santa Claus (Jason Bateman) for a PlayStation 5 in this holiday parody of “Stan” by Eminem. As we learn at the end of the bit (which original video star Devon Sawa loved), the Real Slim Shady is the one who ended up getting the PS5 under his tree.

The Property Brothers And Tony Hawk (Season 48)

Kenan Thompson plays the host of an international beauty pageant that is close to going off the rails when he makes note of the random selection of Property Brothers’ Drew and Jonathan Scott and Tony Hawk as the judges before introducing them. Much to the surprise of Thompson’s character (and the audience), the twin renovation reality show stars and the pro skateboarder are appearing as themselves.

Jeff Probst (Season 48)

At first, the only joke this wedding-set sketch has going for it is the repeated utterance of the word “Joker," in reference to the best man’s choice of Halloween costume, modeled after Heath Ledger in The Dark Knight. What transcends the SNL sketch from terrible to amazing is when Survivor host Jeff Probst shows up to announce if the guests voted in favor of the best man (Andrew Dismukes) keeping on his makeup or in favor of the bride (Heidi Gardner), who thinks his costume has ruined the ceremony.

Conan O'Brien (Season 47) 

When John Mulaney’s induction into SNL’s Five-Timers Club doesn’t seem to be going well, with veterans like Steve Martin and Candice Bergen believing he doesn’t fit the quality standards, coming to his aid is none other than Conan O’Brien. The beloved late-night host-turned-podcaster’s surprise appearance was not only special because he starred in the first Five-Timers Club sketch while working as a writer, but because he previously severed ties with NBC after 2010’s embarrassing Tonight Show debacle.

The Hunger Games Cast (Season 40) 

After starting his third SNL monologue with a song about the year 1989 modeled after Taylor Swift’s “Blank Space,” Woody Harrelson is suddenly joined by his Hunger Games movies co-stars Liam Hemsworth and Josh Hutcherson. When Academy Award winner Jennifer Lawrence shows up, Harrelson initially mistakes her for “the real Taylor Swift.”

Eugene Levy (Season 46) 

Host Dan Levy offers a glimpse of what Studio 8H looks like backstage in a post-Covid environment. During the tour, he is shocked to learn his father and fellow Schitt’s Creek cast member, Eugene Levy, flew from L.A. to New York to support him, but pandemic protocols have forced the comedian to watch the show from a clear, protective case.

Matt Damon (Season 44)

Matt Damon is the face behind many of the most amazing celebrity cameos in movies, but the Oscar-winning writer and star of Good Will Hunting has worked his magic on the small screen as well. For instance: his surprise appearance on SNL as Associate Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh in a hilarious cold open recreating his senate hearing.

Julia Stiles (Season 49)

On “Weekend Update,” Chloe Fineman demonstrates her most romantic holiday gift idea: recreating the balletic performance from the end of one of the best dance movies, Save the Last Dance. Fineman and the crowd are suddenly starstruck when the film’s star, Julia Stiles, shows up to help bring the tribute to a grand finale.

Arnold Schwarzenegger (Season 14)

When an overly excited Danny DeVito interrupts his monologue and requests to re-do the show’s opening, he asks his good friend and Twins co-star, Arnold Schwarzenegger, to launch things with the famous catchphrase while he is sitting in the audience. The Terminator movies star would show up in the episode again to pay a visit to his cousins, Hans (Dana Carvey) and Franz (Kevin Nealon).

Bryan Cranston (Season 42) 

In a funny cold open, CNN reporter Jake Tapper announces that then-President Donald Trump has selected a new head of the DEA. The person in question is former high school chemistry teacher Walter White, played by former Breaking Bad cast member Bryan Cranston reprising his legendary, multi-Emmy-winning role.

Paul McCartney (Season 32) 

This sketch is already crawling with amazing cameos when Alec Baldwin, in the Platinum Lounge at SNL’s Five-Timers Club, runs into Martin Short (working as a server) and Steve Martin, who attempts to murder his It’s Complicated co-star under the impression he is tying his hosting record. However, the biggest surprise comes when Paul McCartney walks in, whom Martin initially mistakes for fellow club member, Paul Simon. 

Melissa McCarthy (Season 42)

One of SNL’s all-time best hosts, Melissa McCarthy, showed up to play then-White House press secretary Sean Spicer during an episode hosted by Kristen Stewart. While then-President Donald Trump did not care for the sketch, Spicer did not seem bothered by the impersonation (save McCarthy’s amount of gum chewing), and the big became one of SNL’s most popular YouTube clips, later inspiring the Oscar nominee to reprise the role once more.

The Office Cast (Season 44)

When an audience member interrupts Steve Carell’s third SNL monologue to ask if an Office reboot is in the works, he initially says the beloved NBC sitcom might be best left alone. However, fellow Office cast members Ellie Kemper, Ed Helms, and Jenna Fischer pop in to convince him otherwise.

Barry Gibb (Season 39)

Arguably Jimmy Fallon’s single funniest SNL sketch is “The Barry Gibb Talk Show,” in which he and Justin Timberlake, as Bee Gees members Barry and Robin Gibb, discuss pressing topics with public figures. One of the later editions featured Madonna appearing as herself, but when the real Barry Gibb shows up at the very end is an all-time classic moment.

Larry David (Season 41)

While he never was an SNL cast member (but did perform sketch comedy on Fridays), Larry David had a brief stint at Studio 8H as a writer years before returning to the show in a legendary way. In a cold open recreating the 2016 Election’s Democratic presidential debate, the Seinfeld and Curb Your Enthusiasm creator drove the crowd crazy with his first of many appearances as Bernie Sanders, who, it turns out, is a distant cousin of the comedian, as they would later discover (per Time). 

Brad Pitt (Season 24)

Brad Pitt is, surprisingly, one of many celebrities who have never hosted SNL, but he has popped in on the show a couple of times. The first time was in a cold open for an episode hosted by David Spade, as the Tommy Boy actor’s therapist, for some reason.

Alex Trebek (Season 27)

One of SNL’s best “Celebrity Jeopardy!” sketches comes from Will Ferrell’s final episode as a cast member, particularly for the surprise guest at the very end. After Ferrell’s Alex Trebek announces the “Final Jeopardy!,” the real, late Alex Trebek appears to bid his impersonate adieu.

James Gandolfini (Season 30)

When reporting on then-New Jersey governor Jim McGreevey’s scandal on “Weekend Update,” Amy Poehler and Tina Fey introduce a native to New York’s neighboring state to comment on the topic. The guest turns out to be played by the late James Gandolfini of the Sopranos cast fame, whose commentary turns out to be filled with stereotypes at the expense of his own community and others.

Chris Rock (Season 42)

A highlight of Dave Chappelle’s Emmy-winning debut hosting gig was the appearance of his friend and collaborator, Chris Rock. The ‘90s SNL icon shows up in a sketch set on the night of the 2016 Presidential Election to bond with Chappelle’s character over their anticipation of the inevitable results.

Jake Gyllenhaal (Season 45)

One of the most dazzling cameos in one of John Mulaney’s best comedy specials, John Mulaney & the Sack Lunch Bunch, was Jake Gyllenhaal as Mr. Music. The Academy Award nominee later reunited with the beloved comedian in one of Mulaney’s best musical SNL sketches as a pajama-clad traveler at LaGuardia Airport.

Janet Reno (Season 26)

Before Jane Lynch played Janet Reno in a true crime series, she was portrayed by Will Ferrell on SNL for years in “Janet Reno’s  Dance Party.” The final edition of the hard-partying sketch, amid the end of Reno’s sting as U.S. Attorney General, went out with a bang when the real Reno crashed through the wall to greet her doppelganger.

Mick Jagger (Season 49)

Musician and actor Bad Bunny’s SNL hosting debut was pretty cameo-heavy, including appearances by Pedro Pascal, former cast member Fred Armisen, and Lady Gaga. However, it was Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger who brought the house down with his bewildering parts in two sketches — first as a telenovela actor and later as a man posing as a nun.

Mark Zuckerberg (Season 36)

Host Jesse Eisenberg’s monologue is interrupted by Andy Samberg’s impersonation of Mark Zuckerberg, whom Eisenberg portrayed to Academy Award-nominated acclaim in the Social Network cast in 2010. Little do they know that the real Facebook founder is backstage, but goes against Lorne Michaels’ suggestions and joins Eisenberg onstage for an “awkberg” first meeting.

Sometimes what makes SNL really fun is waiting to see which celebrities might show up for a surprise appearance this time.

Have you ever caught a rerun of an older TV show and during the opening credits sequence, you spotted someone who made you say, “Hey, I know that person!”? This is actually a more common occurrence than you may realize, as there many A-list celebrities whose first IMDb credit (or one of the first) was a supporting role on a series long before they earned the honor of being a leading presence on the big (or small) screen. The following are some of our favorite examples of famous actors who appeared a bit further down the the line on the call sheet on a TV show when they were starting out.

Chris Pratt (Everwood)

Before Guardians of the Galaxy made him a leading man, Chris Pratt really began to gain traction from starring in the Parks and Recreation cast as Andy Dwyer. However, even earlier than that, he starred on a WB family drama called Everwood as high school joke Bright Abbott alongside fellow future MCU star Emily VanCamp, who played his sister, Amy.

Jennifer Lawrence (The Bill Engvall Show)

Before her Academy Award-nominated performance in 2010’s Winter’s Bone, her star-making role as Katniss in The Hunger Games and Oscar-winning turn in Silver Lining’s Playbook, Jennifer Lawrence was a sitcom star — specifically a cable network sitcom star. On The Bill Engvall Show, which lasted three seasons on TBS, she starred opposite the eponymous stand-up comedian as his on-screen alter ego’s teenage daughter, Lauren Pearson,

Austin Butler (Zoey 101)

The musical talents that earned Austin Butler the title role of Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis can be traced back to his part on Ruby & the Rockits, which lasted 10 episodes on ABC Family (now Freeform) in 2009. However, the Oscar nominee’s first major TV role was on the final season of Nickelodeon’s Zoey 101 as James Garrett — a character missing from Paramount+’s feature-length follow-up, Zoey 102.

Margot Robbie (Pan Am)

While her earliest role was actually the long-running soap opera, Neighbours — much like many other Aussie A-listers — we thought we would highlight American audiences’ first true introduction to Margot Robbie on Pan Am. An interesting fact about Robbie is that the future Oscar nominee and DC movies star was actually roommates with co-star Christina Ricci while playing 1960s-era flight attendant Laura Cameron on the short-lived ABC drama from 2011 to 2012.

Seth Rogen (Freaks And Geeks)

While still part of the main ensemble, Seth Rogen’s role as the initially arrogant Ken Miller pretty much got the short end of the stick amongst the Freaks and Geeks cast, for the most part. Ironically, Rogen, arguably, went on to become the painfully short-lived coming-of-age dramedy’s biggest star, which is really saying something, given his co-stars include Jason Segel, Linda Cardellini, and John Francis Daley.

Brie Larson (Raising Dad)

A notable moment in Academy Award winner Brie Larson’s evolution from child star to modern A-list actor was her role as the late Bob Saget’s youngest on-screen daughter on Raising Dad — a sitcom that ran for one season on The WB (now The CW) in the early 2000s. Following her success as the MCU’s Captain Marvel, Larson returned to TV in 2023 — reprising her Scott Pilgrim vs. the World role for Netflix’s animated series reboot, Scott Pilgrim Takes Off, and leading the Lessons in Chemistry cast for Apple TV+.

Leonardo DiCaprio (Growing Pains)

While doing press for Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt recalled how they both appeared on the hit ABC sitcom Growing Pains much earlier in their career. Of course, Pitt had a one-episode guest appearance while the Oscar-winning The Revenant star and Titanic cast member had a prominent role as Luke Brewer — a homeless teen taken in by the Seavers in Season 7. 

Ana De Armas (The Boarding School)

One of the films that earned Academy Award nominee Ana de Armas a spot on the A-list was Rian Johnson’s hit whodunit, Knives Out, from 2019. More than a decade earlier, the Cuban-born actor landed a role on a coming-of-age mystery TV show called El Internado (or The Boarding School), which originally aired in Spain from 2007 to 2010.

Michael B. Jordan (The Wire)

After getting his start as a Toys ‘R Us kid, the fascinating Michael B. Jordan made his official acting debut on an episode of The Sopranos, but later landed a more prominent role on another acclaimed, gritty HBO series in 2002. He appeared amongst The Wire cast as Wallace — an orphan whose tragic story had a profound impact on the Emmy-nominated series beyond his 13-episode stint.

Anne Hathaway (Get Real)

Anne Hathaway fans should know that before she broke into the mainstream by leading Disney’s The Princess Diaries cast, the Academy Award winner made her acting debut on a 1999 Fox TV show called Get Real as a high school senior who shocks her family with the decision to refuse college. Coincidentally, the short-lived dramedy was also the debut of Hathaway’s Rio co-star, Jesse Eisenberg, and was an early gig for NCIS' Eric Christian Olsen as well.

Denzel Washington (St. Elsewhere)

With two Oscars to his name, it’s hard to imagine a TV screen big enough to contain the talent of one Denzel Washington, yet it was a TV show that helped launched the young actor’s career in the early 1980s. Following his official debut in the 1977 TV movie Wilma, the future Training Day lead played Dr. Philip Chandler on NBC’s hit medical drama, St. Elsewhere.

Michelle Williams (Dawson's Creek)

For years, Michelle Williams was known best from the Dawson’s Creek cast as Jen Lindley. Now — after receiving multiple Academy Award nominations for acclaimed dramas like Manchester by the Sea and Steven Spielberg’s The Fabelmans — that role on the hit teen drama is, typically, among the last things mentioned in regards to her career.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt (3rd Rock From The Sun)

As a child actor, Joseph Gordon-Levitt starred in some good movies and made a few notable TV guest appearances before landing his first successful series regular gig with 3rd Rock from the Sun. He played the eldest member of a group of extra-terrestrial visitors, and the character resembles a teenager in human form on the Emmy-winning sci-fi sitcom.

George Clooney (The Facts Of Life)

As a TV star, George Clooney is best known from his main role on the popular ‘90s show, ER, on which he played Doug Ross. Much earlier, however, the future two-time Oscar winner had a memorable recurring role on Diff’rent Strokes' (very different) spin-off, The Facts of Life, as George Burnett — a carpenter who would become close to the girls living under Mrs. Garrett’s roof.

Woody Harrelson (Cheers)

With multiple Academy Award nominations to his name, Woody Harrelson is known today as one of Hollywood’s most versatile movie stars, but his first big break came when he joined the Cheers cast in the mid-1980s. In fact, he won his first Emmy Award for playing the naive, but lovable, Woody Byrd, whom Sam (Ted Danson) hires on as a new barkeep following he death of Coach (Nicholas Colasanto).

Jason Bateman (Little House On The Prairie)

At least before he led Netflix’s Ozark cast, Jason Bateman has always best known on the small screen as a sitcom star, with his roles as David Hogan on Valerie (later changed to The Hogan Family) and Michael Bluth on Arrested Development being the famous examples. However, his very first gig was playing James Cooper Ingalls for 21 episodes of Little House on the Prairie during the early 1980s.

Don Cheadle (The Golden Palace)

An early Don Cheadle role you may have forgotten about was featured on a TV show spin-off you may not have heard of, either. The future Academy Award nominee and MCU actor starred alongside most of the Golden Girls cast on The Golden Palace as Roland Wilson — the young manager of the titular hotel where the short-lived sitcom took place. 

Jason Momoa (Baywatch)

Even long before he landed the role of Aquaman in the DC movies, Jason Momoa was no stranger to saving lives in the water. The Hawaiian-born actor made his debut in his home state when he joined the Baywatch cast as a character also named Jason from 1999 to 2001.

Marisa Tomei (A Different World)

We know her from her Academy Award-winning role in My Cousin Vinny as Mona Lisa Vito (who she'd love to revisit) or as Peter Parker’s (reinvented) Aunt May in the MCU, to name a few examples. Yet before many people knew who Marisa Tomei was, she was on the first season of The Cosby Show spin-off, A Different World, as Hillman student Maggie Lauten.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II (The Get Down)

One interesting fact about Yahya Abdul-Mateen II: before he was an Emmy-winning DC TV show star (for playing Cal Abar on HBO’s Watchmen) and a scene-stealing DC movie villain (Black Manta in Aquaman), he worked as a San Francisco city planner until he was laid off in 2010. The role that first helped him make a name for himself as an actor was night club owner Clarene “Cadillac” Caldwell in Netflix’s musical period drama series, The Get Down, from co-creator Baz Luhrmann.

Alexandra Daddario (All My Children)

Speaking to Women’s Health in 2022, Alexandra Daddario recalls that she was fired from the long-running daytime soap opera, All My Children, which she actually found to be a liberating, educational experience. It led to seek improvement in her acting skills and pave the way for her to breakthrough in the Percy Jackson movies, give an Emmy-nominated performance as part of the HBO’s The White Lotus cast, and star in many other notable works.

Adam Driver (Girls)

Without Lena Dunham, there might not be a Kylo Ren — or at least, the memorable version of the Sith Lord we got in the hands Adam Driver. The former Marine’s scene-stealing role on HBO’s Girls as Adam Sackler is what got Hollywood to take notice of his talent, leading to his casting in the Star Wars movies and his Oscar-nominated performances in BlacKkKlansman and Marriage Story.

Melissa McCarthy (Gilmore Girls)

Gilmore Girls proved to be a launch pad for many A-listers — few of which would blow up quite like Melissa McCarthy, who played Sookie St. James on the hit dramedy.  She later won an Emmy for her leading role on the CBS sitcom Mike & Molly and received an Academy Award nomination for her supporting role as a member of the Bridesmaids cast. And that film skyrocketed her to the A-list as a trusted name in comedy and more.

Drake (Degrassi: The Next Generation)

One of the most memorable and important characters from Degrassi: The Next Generation is Jimmy Brooks, who served as an inspirational representation for wheelchair users on the long-running Canadian coming-of-age drama. The role was played by an actor named Aubrey Graham, who still acts on occasion — an Anchorman 2 cameo, for instance — but primarily performs as a rapper under the moniker Drake.

Kiernan Shipka (Mad Men)

At just eight years old, Kiernan Shipka proved to be a stand-out alongside AMC’s Mad Men cast with her performance as Sally Draper. She later went on to lead her own TV show (Netflix’s Chilling Adventures of Sabrina) and headline movies like Amazon Prime’s horror-comedy, Totally Killer and The Silence.

Ryan Reynolds (Fifteen)

Despite his many earnest roles over the years, it may be hard to picture Ryan Reynolds as anything other than the smarmy goof he plays in the likes of the Deadpool movies and National Lampoon’s Van Wilder, for instance. Perhaps watching him make his debut in the Canadian coming-of-age drama Fifteen will help audiences see another side of him.

Tommy Lee Jones (One Life To Live)

It is amazing to think about how many acclaimed and even legendary actors started out on soap operas, such as Tommy Lee Jones. One of the earliest roles for the Academy Award-winning star of The Fugitive and the Men in Black movies was the ill-fated Mark Toland on One Life to Live from 1971 to 1975.

John Travolta (Welcome Back, Kotter)

Before his Academy Award-nominated role in 1977’s Saturday Night Fever — and its fantastic movie soundtrack — made him one of the biggest stars of all time, John Travolta was better known by another name: Vinnie Barbarino. That was the future Pulp Fiction cast member’s character on Welcome Back, Kotter — a hit sitcom that never made it to 100 episodes. He practically stole the show from star and co-creator Gabe Kaplan with his famous catchphrase, “Up your nose with a rubber hose!”

Jennifer Love Hewitt (Kids Incorporated)

Her role as Sarah Reeves on the original Party of Five may have made Jennifer Love Hewitt a teen idol, but it was not her first major TV gig. The Ghost Whisperer star was 10 when she demonstrated her multiple talents on Disney Channel’s Kids Incorporated, which focuses on the lives of a group of young artists who perform live music at a club for children.

Benedict Cumberbatch (Fortysomething)

It was his eponymous role on the modern crime drama Sherlock that made Benedict Cumberbatch a nigh-unpronounceable household name, but his first starring role on a TV series was Fortysomething. The MCU’s Doctor Strange actor played the on-screen son of none other than House’s Hugh Laurie on the English dramedy that lasted six episodes.

Jared Leto (My So-Called Life)

In one of the best ‘90s shows that ended too soon, My So-Called Life, Jared Leto portrayed what would become his first iconic role: high school heartthrob Jordan Catalano. The much celebrated coming-of-age drama also marked one for the first times the future Academy Award winner acted alongside his sibling and Thirty Seconds to Mars bandmate, Shannon.

Mary Elizabeth Winstead (Passions)

Movie star Mary Elizabeth Winstead has more than a few very notable small-screen roles — such as a leading stint in Fargo Season 3 and Hera Syndulla alongside the Ahsoka cast for Disney+. The Scott Pilgrim vs. The World cast member’s earliest major TV gig, however, was on the supernatural soap opera Passions.

For any TV actors out there hoping one day to make it onto the big screen, let these stories serve as proof that your dreams may not be far away from becoming a reality.

Leading characters draw us into the movies. But every once in a while, a strong supporting player can leave us talking about their scene-stealing performances, or the untapped potential they left on the table because they didn’t get as much screen time as we thought they deserved. The following characters all stood out in their respective films. And the main thing they all have in common is that we all wish they got more time on screen, because they were so much fun.

Les Grossman

The Hollywood satire Tropic Thunder took huge swings at the entertainment industry, with a group of spoiled actors tasked with making a war picture getting mistaken for actual soldiers and getting captured behind enemy lines. But it was an unrecognizable Tom Cruise, playing tough-talking studio executive Les Grossman, who danced away with the picture. There was talk of a Les Grossman movie coming out one day. I hope that’s still on the table. 

Lester Bangs

There’s nothing better than when a young up-and-comer finds the perfect mentor. Philip Seymour Hoffman played that role to perfection in Cameron Crowe’s Almost Famous. Rock journalist Lester Bangs showed William Miller (Patrick Fugit) what his future could hold, and it wasn’t always bright. But in Hoffman’s hands, it was raw, honest, real, and very uncool.

Blake

Always be closing. It’s a mantra we can all recite because Alec Baldwin was so convincing in the movie adaptation of the brilliant stage play Glengarry Glenn Ross. His character, Blake, is supposed to be motivating a team of salesmen, played by a murderer’s row of character actors (Al Pacino, Ed Harris, and Jack Lemmon). So for any actor to come in and dominate that room is impressive. Plus, the moment Blake’s gone from the screen, you immediately want him back. Leave them wanting more.   

Megan Price

It takes a lot to emerge from the pack of gifted comedians assembled for Bridesmaids and be the one that people are talking about. Kristen Wiig and Maya Rudolph were at their peak, while Rose Byrne and Ellie Kemper were making noise leading into it. But Melissa McCarthy ripped Bridesmaids away from those ladies, partially by doing something nasty in a sink, but also by creating an unforgettable character who had quirks, compassion, and a formidable funny bone.

Floyd

We didn’t realize at the time of True Romance that we were watching an actor who would go on to become one of the biggest movie stars on the planet. But in his scant few scenes as couch surfer Floyd, Brad Pitt demonstrated his ability to completely lose himself in a character, sell a vibe, and hang with fellow heavy hitters like James Gandolfini and Christian Slater. A star was born. 

Spider-Ham

When the multiverse opened up in Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, Miles Morales (Shameik Moore) met all sorts of strange versions of his spider hero. The strangest, and most interesting, had to be the heroic Spider-Ham, a pig in costume who… ate hot dogs? Spider-Verse remains one of the best Spider-Man movies ever made, and it’s because of unexpected inclusions in the cast like this. 

Rod Tidwell

Show him the money, Jerry. At its heart, Jerry Maguire is a love story. It’s also a human journey, where a self-centered sports agent learns how to love himself again. But Jerry Maguire takes flight every time Cuba Gooding Jr. lights up the screen. His football star Rod Tidwell gives Jerry purpose, and Gooding gave Cruise the ideal foil on screen. Like so many people on this list, the role was so good, it earned him an Oscar win. Well deserved.

The Wolf

His name is Winston. He solves problems. He shows up in Quentin Tarantino’s masterpiece, Pulp Fiction, at a time when Jules (Samuel L. Jackson) and Vincent (John Travolta) have a very big one. Harvey Keitel owns the role, but there are so many questions we have regarding The Wolf (including the party he’s throwing, his tuxedo, and how he got to be known for this task), you could easily do a Pulp Fiction spinoff all about him, and I’d watch it a thousand times.

Spike

We have a few people on this list who are bummy roommates stealing scenes by loafing around. That’s how Rhys Ifans steals Notting Hill away from Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant. The film is as romantic as they come, but Ifans makes sure all of his scenes as Spike are equally hilarious.

Ken

There are so many Kens to choose from. Barbie Land has its fair share of male dolls. But I have to go with Simu Liu’s competitive Ken, who holds a grudge against Ryan Gosling’s Ken, seems to have the upperhand on him at every turn, and practically demands more screen time so we can figure out what makes this Ken tick.    

Mark Hanna

I don't exactly know what Matthew McConaughey is channeling in his The Wolf of Wall Street scene. I know it's primal. I know it's unpredictable. I know it's unlike anything I have ever seen before. And I know that the movie needed more of it... whatever it is. Now, start beating your chest. 

Captain Dickson

Ice Cube might be a teddy bear in real life, but he portrays “angry” so easily that if he were to yell at me, I’d turn into a puddle. So there’s something special about the way that he yells at Channing Tatum and Jonah Hill in 21 Jump Street and its sequel. He makes it funny. Still scary. But also pretty hysterical.

Paloma

The most recent James Bond thriller, No Time to Die, was structured as a sendoff for Daniel Craig. But throughout it, we met a new 007 in Lashana Lynch, and watched Bond fight alongside a feisty agent, Paloma (Ana de Armas), who we’d love to see on screen again.

The Critic

Pixar’s classic, Ratatouille, focuses on a fledgling cook and the rat who helps him create vivid dishes. But they mostly want to please a discerning critic, who picks and chooses his moments, then excels with a return to his childhood courtesy of a bite of food that brings him back. I loved every scene with the Critic in Ratatouille, and wanted more of him. 

Nigel

The three women at the head of The Devil Wears Prada dominate the scene, Meryl Streep is flawless as a fashion editor, while Anne Hathaway and Emily Blunt excel as worker bees earning her favor. But the character I wish we had more time with is Nigel, played to crisp perfection by the wonderful Stanley Tucci. He has history with Miranda Priestly, and more story to be told there. 

Rudy Reyes

In a superhero movie, all eyes are on the hero (and also usually the villain). And DC’s most recent Blue Beetle delivered plenty of exciting new twists to the story of Jaime Reyes (Xolo Mariduena), including leaning on his family. And in that tight-knit group we found Rudy Reyes (George Lopez), the paranoid uncle with one eye on the government who also ended up being one of the funniest characters in the DCU. More Rudy, whenever Blue Beetle shows up again in James Gunn’s comic universe. 

Grace

Edie McClurg is a legend. She created so many memorable characters in classic 1980s comedies. For the purpose of this feature, I’m going to single out the clueless receptionist Grace that she played in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. She made a pencil funny. But there has to be an extra shout out for her turn opposite Steve Martin in Planes, Trains, and Automobiles. The lady knew how to make the absolute most of her screen time, and it was never enough. 

Chet

The late Bill Paxton made every movie better. Be it Aliens, Apollo 13, Twister, or the hilariously bizarre Weird Science, Paxton committed fully, and demonstrated immense range. Chet might be one of the worst characters created for the screen… but he’s so deliciously evil to his brother in the teen comedy that we relished every moment Paxton was on the screen. Even when he was a blob of garbage. 

Emma Watson

This is a fun aspect of this list. Some people are able to steal scenes by playing themselves. The armageddon spoof This is the End allowed several celebrities to play enhanced versions of their Hollywood personas, and Harry Potter icon Emma Watson seemed to really enjoy lampooning her image during her too-brief cameo. 

Gin Slagel

Bernie Mac left us too soon. The man was a powerhouse comedian, a larger than life personality that owned the screen every moment he occupied it for a comedy, or even a comedic thriller (like as part of the ensembles of the Ocean’s movies). Some might forget that he was a part of Bad Santa, a holiday staple marked by Billy Bob Thornton’s memorably dark performance. But Mac’s role as mall security makes him the ideal foil for Thornton, and he needed plenty more time on the screen. 

Pizza Poppa

If there’s one thing we know about Pizza Poppa (Bruce Campbell), it’s that he gets paid. Sam Raimi loves Campbell. And we love Campbell in Raimi movies, including  when he showed up for an all-too-brief and strange (no pun intended) cameo in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. The appearance makes good use of Campbell’s physical comedy, and also leads to a spot-on end credits scene.  

The Bus Driver

There’s a trend on this list. Comedic performers who left us too soon. Chris Farley belongs on that list. And while he will always have his standalone hit in Tommy Boy, but it’s his cameos that hit me the most. I loved him in Adam Sandler’s Billy Madison as the disgruntled bus driver, who amuses himself by stealing kids’ lunches. 

Boris Podgorny

Another one of the classic mentor roles, this one appearing in Steven Spielberg’s autobiographical winner, The Fabelmans. Young Sammy Fabelman needed a voice of reason at an important point in his maturation. It came in the form of his visiting uncle (Judd Hirsch), who shared tales of the circus, and a life spent entertaining. Hirsch was a spark that ignited the story, and his absence was felt during the remainder of the film. 

T.D.K.

Mind you, almost everyone in the opening scene of James Gunn’s The Suicide Squad could be on this list. They all exit the screen in spectacular fashion, and much earlier than anticipated. But I’m going with Nathan Fillion’s T.D.K., mainly because of what his power is. And if you don’t know yet, go put this movie on now and enjoy.

Large Marge

Alice Elizabeth Nunn doesn’t have a long list of acting credits. If you, like me, grew up on Tim Burton’s Pee-wee’s Big Adventure, though, you will remember her as Large Marge. Her legend grows by the day. So when you get to the rest stop, tell them Large Marge sent you.

Steven

John Cena has mastered the art of scene stealing. The all-star wrestler seamlessly transitioned over to the silver screen, thanks to hilarious and go-for-broke performances like the one he gives opposite Amy Schumer in Trainwreck. Part of me wishes that Cena got the girl in this movie. Alas, it wasn’t meant to be. 

Gloria Cleary

I miss the days when Vince Vaughn and Owen Wilson were good for an annual comedy. Wedding Crashers probably ranks as the duo’s best, and while many single out Will Ferrell’s bathrobe-wearing bachelor as the standout character, I wanted more screen time with the irascible Isla Fisher, who goes toe-to-toe with Vaughn and emerges as the most memorable comedian in this wild ensemble. 

Trudi Frazer

Quentin Tarantino is a master at creating unforgettable characters. Even one of the smaller roles will still grab you, and not let go. Young Julia Butters owns the screen opposite Leonardo DiCaprio in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. She’s a savvy kid actor with more confidence than DiCaprio’s Rick Dalton will ever have. I want to know the type of career that Trudi went on to have, because she’s a fascinating slice of a complicated pie that only Tarantino can cook up.

Whiskey

On the surface, it seems like Whiskey (Madelyn Cline) doesn’t belong with the group that has gathered on the island in Glass Onion. But the more that you learn about her, the more you realize she has as many games to play as the rest of them. Cline leaves us wondering how Whiskey earned her seat at the table, but that’s the point of this list. Lingering questions surround almost all of these interesting characters.

Peter

Sugar Bear. Peter (Rob Delaney) is Deadpool’s favorite member of his new super-powered team, X-Force. Peter has no powers. He’s just positive, and willing to play along. He’s the best part of Deadpool 2, and the movie definitely needed more of him.

Gary

"How can that be profitable for Frito Lay?" All that Gary (Jesse Plemons) wants to do is participate in Game Night. Sure, he’s socially awkward. But given the problems that surface in the group as the movie unfurls, Gary would be an ideal player. Just, keep the blood off of his dog, please. 

Chirrut Imwe

Listen, I want more Donnie Yen in everything. He blew us away in John Wick: Chapter 4, and has a rich history of dominating Asian cinema. But it’s his blind hero in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story that I think demands more time. And given the existence of Disney+ shows like Andor, I think more Donnie Yen in that Galaxy far far away is a distinct possibility. 

We see it quite often – comedians and comedic actors cut their teeth performing stand-up or appearing on beloved sketch comedy shows before knocking everyone’s socks off with a remarkable and remarkably emotional dramatic role. Sometimes, these earn the actors and actresses Academy Awards or at least their first Oscar nomination for unforgettable performances that make us cry as much as they once made us laugh.

That being said, here are 32 examples of people known for their comedy being great in dramatic roles…

Robin Williams

Even before Robin Williams earned a much-deserved Oscar for his performance in Good Will Hunting, the comedian proved time and time again that he was more than capable when it came to dramatic roles. In fact some of Williams’ best movies like Dead Poets Society and Awakenings showed early on what he could achieve in a less comedic capacity. And let’s not forget his frightening turns in One Hour Photo and Insomnia.

Jim Carrey

After being an almost guaranteed box office draw in the mid 1990s, Jim Carrey showed he was more than just an over-the-top slapstick comedian with roles in The Truman Show and Man on the Moon. However, Carrey’s most notable dramatic turn, and probably his best overall performance can be found in 2004’s Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.

Eddie Murphy

For years, Eddie Murphy was well-known for beloved comedic roles in classics like Coming to America, 48 Hrs., and Beverly Hills Cop, but he’s also displayed a more dramatic side over the years. At the top of this list is Dreamgirls, the 2006 musical drama that saw him take on the role of James “Thunder” Early, a performance that should have earned him an Oscar.

Whoopi Goldberg

Whoopi Goldberg is an all-time great comedian who has made audiences laugh with her stand-up specials and various film and TV projects for the better part of the past 40 years. During that time, Goldberg has also given us some of the richest and most nuanced dramatic performances like her take on Celie Harris Johnson in Steven Spielberg’s The Color Purple, which earned her a Golden Globe and numerous other accolades.

Adam Sandler

When he wants, Adam Sandler can stand toe-to-toe with just about any living actor. Though he’s mostly known for his various comedies like Happy Gilmore, The Waterboy, and the Grown Ups movies, let’s not forget his outstanding dramatic performances in Punch-Drunk Love, Reign Over Me, and Uncut Gems. Watching Sandler in the Safdie Brothers’ 2019 crime thriller is like watching a completely different actor.

Steve Carell

Around the same time Steve Carell was making us fall over with laughter with his portrayal as Michael Scott on The Office, he was also giving audiences some of the best dramatic performances in movies like Little Miss Sunshine and Foxcatcher. Even since then, Carell has continued to steal the show with heart-wrenching turns in Beautiful Boy and Last Flag Flying.

Jamie Foxx

Jamie Foxx made a name for himself as one of the funniest comedians on the planet in the early ‘90s thanks to shows like In Living Color and The Jamie Foxx Show, which he followed up with some truly great movies in the final decade of the 20th century. But in 2004, Foxx showed off his dramatic chops in Michael Mann’s thrilling Collateral and the must-watch music biopic, Ray, a performance that earned him an Oscar.

Aubrey Plaza 

To some, Aubrey Plaza will always be remembered for her hilarious portrayal of April Ludgate on Parks and Recreation, but the comedian has given some commanding dramatic performances over the years as well. Movies like Emily the Criminal and Black Bear, as well as the second season of The White Lotus, have shown she’s a force to be reckoned with.

Melissa McCarthy

Okay, Melissa McCarthy may be one of the funniest comedic actors on the planet right now, but let’s not overlook her gripping portrayal of literary fraudster Lee Israel in 2018’s Can You Ever Forgive Me, a movie that saw her hold her own with Richard E. Grant. That’s not nothing.

Will Ferrell

Though Will Ferrell’s dramatic roles still have the comedian's unique style of humor, his performances in Everything Must Go and Stranger Than Fiction are still worth bringing up. He’s less manic and a tad bit quieter in these two movies, but that charm is still there, which really messes with your head.

Ben Stiller

Ben Stiller has shown over the years that he can do more than play the lovable loser in movies like Meet the Parents, detestable villains in Dodgeball, or caricatures of models in Zoolander. In fact, he’s given quite a few outstanding dramatic performances in everything from The Secret Life of Walter Mitty to the gutting Permanent Midnight.

Mo'Nique

In addition to being a prolific comedian with multiple stand-up specials including The Queens of Comedy, as well as having a lead role on the long-running sitcom, The Parkers, Mo’Nique is also an Academy Award, Golden Globe, and BAFTA winner thanks to her lights out performance in the 2009 drama film, Precious. 

Bette Midler

Bette Midler has made us laugh ourselves out of our seats countless times over the years, but her performance as Cecilia Bloom in Beaches has been making everyone cry for decades now. It’s impossible to listen to “Wind Beneath My Wings” without thinking of that masterful dramatic turn.

Richard Pryor

Legendary stand-up comedian Richard Pryor had a series of comedies with frequent collaborator Gene Wilder at the height of his career, but the comic also gave a dynamic dramatic performance in Paul Schrader’s 1978 crime film, Blue Collar. The movie, which showed the actor’s range, also featured Harvey Keitel and Yaphet Kotto. Talk about a cast.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin, an actress who continues to thrive decades into her career, is best known for performances in comedies like 9 to 5, shows like Grace and Frankie, and various stand-up specials and Broadway productions. But Tomlin can also pull off dramatic roles like her Academy Award-nominated performance in Nashville, her feature film debut.

Albert Brooks

Albert Brooks is wonderfully hilarious in movies like Finding Nemo, Broadcast News, and so many others, but his trademark happy-go-lucky and funny sensibility and charm went out the window with his bone-chilling portrayal of Bernie Rose in Drive. Ice cold.

Marlon Wayans

Here’s something wild to think about: Marlon Wayans played the stereotypical stoner Shorty in the parody horror flick Scary Movie and Tyrone in Darren Aronofsky’s devastating drama Requiem for a Dream in the same year. During the latter film’s development, the star of The Wayan Bros., the comedian had to go through five auditions.

Kristen Wiig

Some of Kristen Wiig’s best movies are those that lean more towards the dramatic side of the spectrum, with Mother, The Skeleton Twins, and The Secret Life of Walter Mitty all coming to mind. This isn’t to say her comedic work isn’t great, as Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar is legitimately one of the funniest movies of the 2020s.

Jason Segel

Jason Segel, through shows like Freaks & Geeks and How I Met Your Mother, has shown time after time that he’s undeniably hilarious. However, through work in movies like The End of the Tour and the 1999 dramedy SLC Punk, the actor has proven he can handle more dramatic performances as good as the rest.

Steve Martin

On top of being the all-time best SNL host, Steve Martin is also one of the most prolific actors of our time. But in addition to all of that, the actor, writer, musician, and what we can assume is a generally good hang, Martin can also pull off more dramatic roles. This can best be seen in the 2005 romantic drama, Shopgirl, which was based on one of his novellas.

Maya Rudolph

Two years after her Saturday Night Live tenure came to an end, Maya Rudolph gave a passionate and beautiful performance in Sam Mendes’ 2009 dramedy, Away We Go. The role, which saw her play the pregnant wife trying to find a place to settle down, allowed the comedic actress to play a more grounded, and sincere character.

Goldie Hawn

In 1991, Goldie Hawn took on the role of Adrienne Saunders in Damian Harris’ psychological thriller, Deceived, which saw her play the wife of the manipulative Frank Sullivan (John Heard in a devilish role). Though the movie wasn’t all that well-received, Hawn was still masterful in it, showing a great deal of range in the process.

Seth Rogen

Seth Rogen has given one wonderfully funny performance after another for nearly the past quarter-century, but the actor and writer behind movies like Superbad and Pineapple Express can handle his own when it comes to drama. Danny Boyle’s 2015 biopic, Steve Jobs, saw the comedian portray Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, which required him to go head-to-head with Michael Fassbender’s tech CEO in some extremely intense scenes.

Kevin Hart

Kevin Hart made the jump to serious drama in The Upside in 2019, an English remake of the french film, The Intouchables. However, this wouldn’t be a one and done type situation for the comedian. He would give another emotional performance in the 2021 Netflix drama, Fatherhood, in which he played a widower trying to raise his daughter in the wake of his wife’s sudden passing.

Jack Black

After dipping his toes in the drama waters with his charming performance in The Holiday, Jack Black played his darkest role yet in the 2011 crime biopic, Bernie. In Richard Linklater’s movie, Black took on the role of mortician Bernhardt “Bernie” Tiede, who was later convicted of murdering his friend and millionaire Marjorie Nugent (Shirley MacLane). 

Anna Kendrick

Anna Kendrick is best known for her starring roles in musical comedies like the Pitch Perfect franchise and the Trolls animated movies, but the comedic actress has also given commanding dramatic performances. This includes the likes of Up in the Air, 50/50, Alice Darling, and A Simple Favor, all of which show her dynamic range.

Awkwafina

If you look at Awkwafina’s best movies, you’ll see a lot of great comedies like Crazy Rich Asians, Ocean’s Eight, and Quiz Lady. However, you’ll also find Lulu Wang’s 2019 drama, The Farewell, which saw the comedian pull off a whole range of emotions throughout its story. In fact, she even won a Golden Globe for her performance.

John Lithgow

John Lithgow has had a remarkable career full of great comedies, including 3rd Rock from the Sun and Shrek, but he’s also given some impressive dramatic performances throughout his career. Be it shows like Dexter and The Crown or a list of movies that includes Killers of the Flower Moon, Terms of Endearment, and Interstellar, the decorated actor has always been able to pull off some impressive feats.

Jerry Lewis

One-half of Martin and Lewis with Dean Martin, Jerry Lewis was one of the funniest names in show business throughout his career, be it with his Vegas shows or various movies like The Nutty Professor and The Ladies Man. But Lewis also gave a terrific dramatic performance in Martin Scorsese’s The King of Comedy, which saw the legendary comedian play a late night TV host kidnapped by an obsessed fan (played by Robert De Niro).

Jennifer Aniston

Jennifer Aniston will always be remembered for her take on Rachel Green in the landmark sitcom, Friends, but the actress has since taken on some rather dramatic roles that worked quite well. One of the most notable is the 2014 drama, Cake, which saw Aniston take on the role of a woman coming to terms with the death of her son.

Jonah Hill

Jonah Hill spent the better part of the 2000s appearing in comedies like Superbad, Grandma’s Boy, and Accepted, but he started to take more dramatic roles in the 2010s. One of the most promising was his part in 2011’s Moneyball, which saw him play Billy Beane’s (Brad Pitt) incredibly intelligent (and sometimes awkward) assistant to great effect.

Steve Coogan

Steve Coogan is lights out in comedies like the Night at the Museum movies and Tropic Thunder, but he was equally as good in the 2013 drama film, Philomena, which saw him take on the role of a journalist helping a woman (played by Judi Dench) track down the son she was force to give up for adoption decades earlier.

Each of these comedians found a way to turn audience expectations on their head and give us some all-time great dramatic performances. It’s safe to say we’ll never forget some of these beloved, and wonderfully emotional roles and the people who brought them to life.

The live-action The Little Mermaid’s Melissa McCarthy had some big tentacles to fill when she took on the role of Ursula, but the actress absolutely went for it and exceeded expectations. With the movie now available to watch over and over again with a Disney+ subscription, I have to talk about the time I spoke with McCarthy about playing the sea witch, and she shared the hilarious things that helped her slip into playing the Disney character. 

Ahead of the theatrical release of The Little Mermaid, I asked Melissa McCarthy, on behalf of CinemaBlend, how she found her voice for Ursula while making the live-action Disney movie. Ariel’s voice, or lack thereof, often gets the spotlight, but I loved what she had to say about how the villain’s likeness came to her. Check out her answer: 

As Melissa McCarthy shared in the interview, while observing the choreography for “Poor Unfortunate Souls” and so forth, a vision came to her that reminded Ursula of a cabaret performer sliding off a piano. As she visualized Ursula, her voice for the character continued to become lower. And, as she pointed out, she figured the character was not a stranger to “many drinks and cigarettes.” Of course, she had to throw out a no-smoking PSA for the kiddies, but McCarthy’s reading of Ursula is both hilarious and dead-on to what kind of energy the villain gives off. 

Pat Carroll's original vocal performance as Ursula in the 1989 classic surely had something to do with McCarthy’s take on the character as well, because it’s just too iconic, isn’t it? Then there’s also the fact that the villain’s trademark look was actually inspired by the drag queen legend Divine. McCarthy shared with Yahoo! that she herself is a “huge fan of drag” and most certainly took inspiration from Divine and channelled her too when becoming Ursula. 

While I’m still not over the fact that the live-action The Little Mermaid cut the “Poor Unfortunate Souls” reprise, Melissa McCarthy’s Ursula was one of many highlights of the remake that contributed to it being one of the best live-action Disney movies I’ve ever seen. Yes, part of me even wants a Little Mermaid spinoff between Ursula and Javier Bardem’s King Triton, which the two actors have shared their interest in making.   

When The Little Mermaid hit theaters early this summer, it performed below expectations at the box office, with a $569.5 million worldwide box office haul. With The Little Mermaid’s arrival on Disney+ this past week, it hit a huge record for the streaming service by earning 16 million views in its first five days on the platform. That number eclipsed the record Hocus Pocus 2 received in that window when it premiered on Disney+ last fall. 

If you missed Melissa McCarthy’s Ursula in theaters, there’s no better time than the present to see what she did with the beloved Disney villain. 

In the moments of The Little Mermaid where Ariel can talk and more importantly sing, it’s mesmerizing. The same can be said about the actress/singer behind the princess as Halle Bailey is an equally angelic and wholesome human with the voice of an angel. We learned all of this by watching the lovely performer on the big screen as the iconic Disney character, but for Melissa McCarthy, she got to witness Bailey’s signing firsthand, and her story about it is adorable. 

As folks have started to see this new version of The Little Mermaid, reviews and viewers have been saying that Halle Bailey’s performance is a real highlight. Turns out she was a ray of light for The Little Mermaid cast as well. Melissa McCarthy explained how the actress could be found humming to herself on set constantly, and the Ursula actress loved it, telling Triple J Radio: 

To be on the receiving end of Halle Bailey's singing sounds like a dream, and to witness her just humming to herself would be incredible. I love that both McCarthy and The Little Mermaid’s boom operator were so enamored by the movie’s star, and her voice. The Bridesmaids actress continued to tell this sweet story, saying: 

This story is my favorite thing. While I was blown away when I heard Bailey sing “Part of Your World” on the big screen, being able to just hear her humming all day long sounds like the best thing ever. What really made this story so special is that McCarthy explained that she doesn't think her co-star knew she was singing to herself and everyone could hear, saying:  

Devine is a great way to describe this situation, and as McCarthy told the story I could tell that Halle Bailey, who was sitting right next to her, seemed flattered by the sweet re-telling. You can see the two actresses' adorable moment for yourself here: 

Isn’t that the best? While Ursula despises Ariel in The Little Mermaid, it’s as clear as day that Melissa McCarthy absolutely loved working with Halle Bailey. To see the voice that the actress has been gushing about left and right, you can check out the remake of the Disney classic in theaters now; you can also go back and watch the OG Little Mermaid with a Disney+ subscription. 

Luckily for all of us, we’ll have another opportunity to see Halle Bailey and her gorgeous voice on screen again as she’s set to star in The Color Purple. So make sure you are paying attention to the 2023 movie schedule so you are up to date on both actresses' upcoming projects.

The highly anticipated live-action adaptation of Disney's The Little Mermaid has finally hit the schedule of 2023 new movie releases, and fans are already captivated by the magical world under the sea. The film, directed by Rob Marshall and featuring an incredible cast that features Melissa McCarthy as Ursula and Javier Bardem as King Triton, is surpassing original box office projections, and that could boost its chances of getting a sequel. And if McCarthy and Bardem get their way, we should all grab our snorkels and get ready to dive deeper into the enchanting world under the sea. The A-listers have an idea for a spinoff, and I’m so on board.  

The two actors had a conversation with The Hollywood Reporter, during which they  expressed their enthusiasm for the Disney project and each other's work. However, they both agreed that only one day on set together was not nearly enough, which led the No Country for Old Men star to pitch his idea for a follow-up for their characters. The actor made a compelling case for an Ursula and Triton spinoff, drawing from the sibling relationship between their characters. The Oscar-winning actor said:

Can you imagine the magic and mischief that could unfold in an Ursula spinoff with Melissa McCarthy's incredible portrayal and Javier Bardem's regal presence as Triton? And why only one dinner scene? How about an entire film set at the table? Think My Dinner With Andre but with the beloved Disney Characters. Am I the only one bubbling with excitement at the thought?

Of course, the Bridesmaids alum quickly jumped on board with her co-star's idea. In fact, she took it even further, suggesting that if they're throwing the idea out into the universe, they should go all out and consider multiple sequels:

Talk about diving into deep end. Though the actors are ready to take the plunge and keep the magic flowing, I doubt the House of Mouse would sign off on a dinner-centered story and add it to the list of upcoming Disney movies.

If a spinoff became a reality though, one intriguing option would be to explore the time when Ursula’s relationship with Triton and the rest of the underwater royal family took a dark turn. Picture a captivating origin story that delves into the villainess' transformation from a character similar to Ariel and her sisters to the disgruntled sea witch we see in The Little Mermaid. They made two movies featuring the Cinderella villain Maleficent and one very successful Cruella movie with a sequel in the works, so it’s not out of the realm of possibility. 

While there’s no official confirmation of a spinoff just yet, the fact that Melissa McCarthy and Javier Bardem are enthusiastic about the idea gives this fan hope. While we eagerly await any official announcements, why not indulge in the current cinematic delight that is The Little Mermaid? The film is currently gracing theaters and has received positive reviews. Our own Corey Chichizola awarded the film four out of five stars, highlighting its mesmerizing visual and musical spectacle. And of course, you can also revisit the OG movie using a Disney+ subscription.

There has been a lot of buzz around the upcoming live-action remake of Disney’s The Little Mermaid, which is just one of a number of big family-friendly movies coming out this summer. Unfortunately a lot of the chatter has been racist backlash against Halle Bailey being cast as Ariel. Audiences will soon be able to draw their own conclusions about the portrayal – and that of the other actors, including Melissa McCarthy as Ursula, Jacob Tremblay as Flounder and Daveed Diggs putting his own mark on Sebastian – when the director Rob Marshall's film hits theaters on May 26. While we wait, let’s take a look at the reviews.

The latter two actors also faced some trolling – or at least their meme-worthy characters did – after movie posters were released showing the animated versions of Ariel’s crab and fish friends. Despite some apparent wariness from fans loyal to the 1989 movie, the first reactions to the remake were positive, with moviegoers lauding Halle Bailey, saying she proves herself, both with her singing voice and in the way she embodies the classic Disney character. In CinemaBlend’s review of The Little Mermaid, Corey Chichizola agrees, rating the movie 4 out of 5 stars and calling the actress a “bonafide superstar” in one of Disney’s best live-action adaptations. He continues: 

Alyssa Mora of IGN rates The Little Mermaid a “Good” 7 out of 10, saying Halle Bailey gives a star-making performance in a movie that is an acceptable, if not always successful, adaptation of the animated original. The critic concludes: 

Brian Truitt of USA TODAY rates the film 2.5 out of 4 stars, warning skeptical viewers that Rob Marshall’s The Little Mermaid is a different animal than the 1989 classic – and nearly an hour longer. This critic joins the others in saying Halle Bailey is the selling point of this remake, but says the original music from Alan Menken and Lin-Manuel Miranda stick out against the beloved originals: 

Caryn James of BBC rates it 3 stars out of 5, calling the lead actress “captivating” as Ariel, while Daveed Diggs is the perfect comic voice for her crab companion. James says it’s a “spectacle with an allure and vitality of its own,” but like the critic above, she says the new songs don’t measure up to the original soundtrack offerings. The review states: 

Leigh Monson of AV Club grades the movie a C+, admitting that this Disney live-action remake is better than others that have come before, but that doesn’t mean that it’s good. The critic continues: 

It seems like the critics are all praising Halle Bailey, with plenty of love for Melissa McCarthy, as well. However, the skepticism that surrounds the movie, which follows several highly criticized live-action remakes from the House of Mouse, seems to center around the new music written for the movie and the additions that extend its runtime by 52 minutes, compared to the 1989 original.

These reviews shouldn’t and won’t keep audiences from checking The Little Mermaid out in theaters, though, after its release Friday, May 26. Be sure to also take a peek at our 2023 Movie Release Schedule to see what else is coming soon, and see what other upcoming Disney movies you can look forward to. 

Disney has been in the habit of taking its animated classics and reimagining them in live-action. Guy Ritchie teamed up with Will Smith for Aladdin, which did so well it’s supposed to get a sequel. Jon Favreau tackled The Jungle Book, which then gave him the confidence to try a live-action version of The Lion King, which did offer audiences a few major differences from its animated predecessor. As difficult as these movies seem to be to pull off, a live-action version of The Little Mermaid sounds downright impossible. How does one film the necessary scenes of Ariel “under the sea,” to make the magical musical realistic? Some of that has now been answered thanks to a full trailer for The Little Mermaid that Disney released during the Super Bowl. Press play on the above clip, and enjoy!

We are coming up on the 35th anniversary of the classic Disney animated The Little Mermaid, which followed the mermaid Ariel as she fulfilled her wish of gaining legs and being able to walk on the surface. Only, the wish cost Ariel her beautiful singing voice, which becomes a problem when she meets and starts to fall in love with Prince Eric. 

Stepping, er, swimming into the role for the live-action The Little Mermaid will be Halle Bailey, and she has been channeling her inner mermaid ever since she got the opportunity to see herself in action in the first official teaser trailer for the movie. But now that the movie is getting closer to its May 26 release date, it was time for Walt Disney Studios to start capturing the attention of a much larger audience, and a Super Bowl spot is a guaranteed way to make that happen. 

The primary human character joining Halle Bailey on the big screen in The Little Mermaid will be Jonah Hauer-King, a busy actor who hasn’t yet had a breakout role of this size just yet. It’s possible that he beat out Harry Styles, who has gone on record saying that he passed on the part. There was a time when Zach Efron’s name was in the mix, as well, though he’s likely too old for the role by now. 

Prior to last year, I might have told you that one of the things holding a live-action The Little Mermaid was the ability to make underwater action believable. But that problem was solved by two massive blockbusters that took place for huge chunks in the sea. By bringing Namor to life in the MCU, Ryan Coogler had to solve the underwater issue for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. And then James Cameron completely changed the game with Avatar: The Way of Water, a visual feast that has been astounding audiences ever since its first, beautiful trailer. If The Little Mermaid can make a fraction of Avatar’s box office, I’m sure Disney will be pleased.

Beyond this new trailer, I’m excited to see more from Melissa McCarthy playing Ursula in live-action, and the inclusion of Javier Bardem as Ariel’s dad, King Triton. The Little Mermaid will be in theaters beginning on May 26, one of countless upcoming 2023 movies that you will want on your radar.

Halle Bailey and Awkwafina got a bit of revenge on their wicked Sea Witch-playing co-star during the Nickelodeon Kids Choice Awards. Melissa McCarthy might be set to play the villainous Ursula (a role she beat out Lizzo for) in the upcoming Disney movie, but she was less than threatening dangling above a massive vat of the kid's channel's famous patented green-colored slime during the children's awards ceremony on March 4th. And you can watch the Ariel and Scuttle performers slime their funny woman fellow actresses. 

The 34th annual Kids Choice Awards show, co-hosted by CBS This Morning sports analyst Nate Burleson and Dancing with the Stars winner and social media star Charli D'Amelio, aired from the Microsoft Theater this past Saturday. Awkwafina, Melissa McCarthy, and Halle Bailey were just a few stars who appeared during the broadcast. Still, they were most certainly some of the most memorable after dunking the Ghostbusters vet in a tank filled with over 1,500 gallons of slime. Watch as The Chloe x Halle performer jokingly scolds McCarthy, saying, "Villains never learn. Don't do the crime if you can't do the slime" before hitting a comically splatter-shaped button sending the Spy actress into the neon-toxic colored goo. The clip is in the official Award's account's Instagram post below:

We must give it to Melissa McCarthy; she took her swim in the sludge like a champ! 

Halle Bailey recently shared more underwater footage from the highly anticipated movie, including a first glimpse of Melissa McCarthy as Ursula the Sea Witch. Director Rob Marshall assembled a killer cast to play Ariel, Triton and more in order to bring his vision for the underwater adventure to life, and it includes live-action performances as well as voiceover work for the animated characters. Is it March yet? The entire cast looks like they're having an awesome time and are likely going to crush it with their performances! 

While on the Nick stage, the Disney cast pretended to have beef; behind the scenes, that wasn't the case. Awkwafina, who lends her voice to the eccentric seagull, Scuttle (who's known for thinking she is an expert on everything human), said in the past that performing in The Little Mermaid was a mind-blowing dream come true. And she said that's primarily because of her talented co-stars. One can only imagine how that  chemistry will translate to an engaging movie, and I cannot wait. 

The humorous back-and-forth between The Little Mermaid cast was definitely a highlight of the night's festivities. Of course, fans probably wouldn't have minded a new trailer to go along with that bit. Hopefully, one arrives sooner rather than later but, in the meantime, I'm down for more shenanigans like these from Melissa McCarthy, Halle Bailey and Awkwafina.

The Little Mermaid is slated to swim into cinemas on March 26th and presumably, the House of Mouse's streaming service later this year. All you'll need is a Disney+ subscription if you can't make it out the door to see it on the big screen. While you wait for Ariel and the gang to return, check out the schedule 2023 new movie releases to plan your next cinematic experience. 

Since the early '60s, Pop-Tarts have been the go-to breakfast dish for anybody needing a quick meal before heading out the door. I guess it was only a matter of time before a movie was made, though who would've thought it would come decades later from Jerry Seinfeld? The iconic comedian directed Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story, which will eventually become available to anyone with a Netflix subscription, and in addition to being a part of it, he's also brought on some famous stars. 

The cast list for Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story is unbelievably stacked. A look down this list will show a who's who in comedy and get readers excited for this upcoming movie. Let's dive in and talk about some of the big names who will take part in this comedy movie. Full disclosure, we don't know the roles any of these actors and actresses are playing, but seeing them all together has me very excited about this project. 

Jerry Seinfeld

Comedian Jerry Seinfeld will star in Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story, which highlights the competition between Post and Kellogg's to produce a breakfast pastry in the early 1960s. Seinfeld is most known for his self-titled hit series, as well as his successful stand-up career. 

Melissa McCarthy

Melissa McCarthy is, without a doubt, one of the funniest women working in film. Whether it's Spy, Bridesmaids or any of her other notable movies, McCarthy is always on point with her ability to seamlessly meld quick wit with physical comedy. Hopefully all of that is happening in Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story, but we can only wait and see. 

Jim Gaffigan

Stand-up comedian Jim Gaffigan might be primarily known for his stage work, but he's had a pretty healthy career in both film and television. Readers might remember his TV Land series The Jim Gaffigan Show or some of the various other movies and shows he's played a small role in, one maybe you've heard some of his voice work over the years, like as Thunderbolt in Stargirl Season 2.

Amy Schumer

Amy Schumer turned down doing the Barbie movie, but she'll be in Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story in an undisclosed role. In addition to a highly-successful career in stand-up comedy, Schumer has found in just about every aspect of entertainment from film and television. 

Hugh Grant

Hugh Grant is an acting icon, and while he may not be the first person that comes to mind in a traditional comedy, he's had roles in quite a few entertaining ones over the years. One of my favorites had to be his recent cameo in Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery, but there are many other examples worth checking out. 

James Marsden

With Westworld officially in the rearview, James Marsden is in the cast of Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story. Marsden's career in film and television spans everywhere from X-Men to Enchanted. Having him aboard is a gift, and I expect his role will be a good one. 

Jack McBrayer

Jack McBrayer has come a long way from his days on 30 Rock, though a lot of the things folks love about his role on that comedy show are still present in some of his more recent works. I don't know officially what to expect from McBrayer, but I wouldn't be surprised if his positive-leaning Southern charm he's known for is on full display in whatever role he's been given. 

Thomas Lennon

It's hard to see Thomas Lennon and not see anything other than Lieutenant Jim Dangle of Reno 911. It's a credit to Lennon that his character has had the sort of longevity to still be relevant in 2023, though I'm sure we'll see him play someone entirely different in Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story. 

Adrian Martinez

Actor Adrian Martinez has popped around Hollywood on the film and television side in various roles since the early '90s. 2023 will be a big year for him with an appearance in Renfield, and it's possible we'll see Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story arrive then as well. 

Bobby Moynihan

Saturday Night Live veteran Bobby Moynihan has been added to cast of Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story. This is just another notch in the belt for Moynihan's growing film career and his already-impressive string of television roles. Given the amount of voice-acting the actor's done in recent years, I almost wonder if he might be a spokesperson for Pop-Tarts or something along those lines in this upcoming movie. 

Max Greenfield

Between his roles on New Girl and The Neighborhood, it's easy to see why any comedy would want to bring on Max Greenfield. He's a natural talent who also proved he has some dramatic acting skills, as well with projects like The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story. Hopefully he'll get a solid role in this film to further open up his career to other big roles. 

Christian Slater

Christian Slater's film and acting credits can't be summarized in a brief blurb, but luckily, he's enough of a household name we shouldn't have to run down the list. Suffice it to say that everyone should be thrilled he's in Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story, regardless of what he's doing. 

Sarah Cooper

Stand-up comedian Sarah Cooper will join the cast of Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story, and she's definitely one of the up-and-coming talents on this cast list. Anyone unfamiliar with her work should certainly check out her Netflix special Sarah Cooper: Everything's Fine to get ready for her upcoming performance in this movie. 

Rachael Harris

Lucifer fans should know actress Rachael Harris quite well, as she spent years on the main cast as Dr. Linda Martin. She's also had roles on numerous acclaimed comedies like Frasier and Ghosts, so she can bring a lot to this comedy film. 

Cedric Yarbrough

Cedric Yarbrough has done quite a bit in Hollywood throughout his career, though I daresay he's held any roles quite as prolific as his role as Deputy Jones on Reno 911. Now he's a part of Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story, and hopefully ready to wow the world with whatever he'll be doing in this comedy. 

Maria Bakalova

Bulgarian actress Maria Bakalova really burst out into Hollywood following Borat Subsequent Moviefilm and has slowly worked her way to larger roles in Hollywood. Her role in this movie is on the heels of her role as Cosmo the Spacedog on Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, so 2023 could be a big year for the actress. 

Kyle Dunnigan

Stand-up comedian Kyle Dunnigan will appear Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story, and he'll join a lot of former co-stars in the process. Dunnigan was known for his role as "Craig" on Reno 911 and was a writer on Inside Amy Schumer. Suffice it to say he probably had a lot of friends on set. 

Peter Dinklage

Actor Peter Dinklage has jumped through a lot of genres in his career and proven he can do anything from fantasy projects like Game of Thrones to comedy outings like Elf. There's no telling what he'll be up to in Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story, but knowing Dinklage's talents, I'm sure it'll be good. 

Jon Hamm

Jon Hamm is rolling right on from his role in Top Gun: Maverick into Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story. It's quite a genre jump for Hamm, but no doubt the Emmy-winning actor is game for whatever the comedy brings his way.  

John Slattery

John Slattery will join his former Mad Men co-star in Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story. Though we know little about his role, Slattery is electric in almost any role he's taken on, and I wouldn't expect this comedy to be any different for him. 

Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story will stream on Netflix, but we're still waiting for an official release date. Hopefully, the movie will be as satisfying as a warm Pop-Tart, and it's hard to believe it won't be with this talented cast. 

While there are lots of great new shows to watch this fall on the 2022 TV schedule, let’s be real, the best show to watch if you want to get into a fall mood is Gilmore Girls. The show graced our televisions for the first time in 2000, and it has been in lots of our lives for 22 years now. In celebration of this anniversary Melissa McCarthy, who played Sookie on the show, posted a tio of adorable and funny throwbacks. 

These days, McCarthy is probably best known for her roles in blockbuster comedies like Bridesmaids, The Heat and Spy. But, the actress started out on network TV. She won an Emmy for her role on Mike and Molly and played the chaotic, silly, and sweet chef Sookie St. James on Gilmore Girls. Even though the actress did not appear in the Gilmore Girls reunion back in 2016, she clearly has fond memories from the show, like this one from her sweet post: 

What a cute photo to bring in the Gilmore Girls season (also known as fall). Every year various cast members post about the show to welcome fall. Last year Jared Padalecki, who played Dean, posted a goofy statement apologizing for his face and saying he was happy he “grew into” it. However, I think he was and still is such a cutie. A year earlier, Lauren Graham posted a sweet message for the show’s 20th anniversary. It’s always fun to see the stars post about the show every year, and McCarthy did not disappoint this year. 

Speaking of Lauren Graham, who played the fast-talking, coffee-drinking Lorelai Gilmore, one of McCarthy’s other posts gave her co-star a lovely shoutout. 

When I was in high school Gilmore Girls was my comfort show, so seeing these throwbacks warms my heart. It’s also fun to see McCarthy, who is currently a queen of comedy, in my opinion, shout out her co-star who was with her at the beginning. And she’s right, it’s super impressive that Graham was able to memorize that crazy fast dialogue that Lorelai had to spit out for seven seasons. 

McCarthy also gave a shout-out to Yanic Truesdale who played Michel Gerard on the show. He’s a French actor who played a French man working at the same hotel as Sookie and Lorelai. She noted in her caption that someone said Truesdale’s French accent was terrible, but he had been speaking the language for his entire life. She posted this funny little story with a cute photo, check it out: 

Along with McCarthy and Graham, another high-profile Gilmore Girls alum has also spoken about his love for the show. Milo Ventimiglia, who played Jess and recently ended a run on the hit show This is Us, has said he would happily return if there was a reunion. Based on these photos, it looks like McCarthy would be down to return too.

It’s lovely seeing the cast post BTS photos every fall. Not only does it put you in a fall mood, it also shows how much the stars still love Gilmore Girls. 

To get in the autumn mood you can watch McCarthy and the rest of the lovely Gilmore Girls cast with a Netflix subscription. 

Gilmore Girls has to be one of the most feel-good TV series of all time, right? The quick banter between Lorelai and Rory, the quaintness of Stars Hollow, the passionate Team Dean/Team Jess/Team Logan arguments. Nothing is ever perfect though, and Scott Patterson, who expertly played diner owner Luke Danes for the series’ seven seasons and the Netflix miniseries, got real about feeling objectified during one Season 3 scene that he still feels is “infuriating.”

On his podcast I Am All In, Scott Patterson was discussing the episode “Keg! Max!” which included a scene where Luke was lying on his stomach on the ground helping Lorelai (Lauren Graham) and Sookie (Melissa McCarthy, whose career took off after Gilmore Girls) with repairs at their Dragonfly Inn. The women commented on his backside, and even after he told them to knock it off, Lorelai continued to make jokes about and compliment his butt. 

Watching the episode back apparently brought up a lot of suppressed emotion for Patterson, who remembered how uncomfortable he was doing that scene. He recalled: 

Regardless of if it was appropriate for the characters to behave that way (it wasn’t), it was still Scott Patterson’s body, and his butt that was the topic of conversation in a scene he had to do in table reads, then rehearsals and for multiple takes on set. And he pointed out the conversation about his backside continued amongst the cast and crew even after the cameras stopped rolling.

He spoke at length about it on the podcast, admitting that he was so uncomfortable that his character was reduced in that way that he questioned why he was doing the show. Scott Patterson also said he never spoke up about his feelings, which angered him even more. He continued:

It’s true that times have changed — and it’s hard to believe that scene would have happened if the show was made today — but that doesn’t mean it was OK to do it back then either. While he said he’d gotten over it (but then laughed and said that obviously he wasn't over it), he thought that scene not only reduced the character of Luke to a body part, but it reduced Lorelai and Sookie’s characters as well. 

I’m sure that as uncomfortable as that scene was to film, it was no walk in the park to open up about it on the podcast and talk about why being objectified like that bothered Scott Patterson. It’s important to talk about those things, though, so similar situations can be avoided on today’s TV sets. 

If you want to relive some of the more feel-good moments from Stars Hollow, all seven seasons of Gilmore Girls and the four-part miniseries are available for streaming with a subscription to Netflix. You can also check out some of the other best shows Netflix has to offer. 

Before the live-action adaptation of The Little Mermaid was even officially a thing, there were ongoing debates on who should play which characters, including through fan campaigns and ones by stars for certain roles. While she was initially pushed by fans, pop star Lizzo took matters into her own hands. The “Truth Hurts” singer made a case for herself as Ursula by posting a video of herself singing the Disney villain’s signature tune “Poor Unfortunate Souls” made up as the character. While she got an audition with the House of Mouse, things didn’t end up working out as Melissa McCarthy scored the role as the voluptuous sea witch, but the two women have since shared a sweet exchange.

Despite vying for the Ursula role, the rapper and McCarthy didn’t officially meet until they ran into each other at the taping for pop superstar Adele’s CBS special One Night Only. While at the taping, the two women had a nice conversation. The multifaceted music star and the actress found out they had more in common than auditioning for the same role. Lizzo laid out to Variety how their conversation turned from causal to surprisingly eerie:

Talk about a star-studded event! Imagine telling Melissa McCarthy your audition was awful as Tyler Perry walked by. At least the two women could bond over their commonalities, no matter how awkward it was. Of course, Lizzo was just saying her audition was terrible in jest. In the same interview, the Grammy-winning star cleared up the air about how things played out with Disney.

At least Lizzo gave her all despite her initial claims stating otherwise. Her viral TikTok video showed she had the skills to pull off the popular villainess. But that wasn’t the only live-action Disney adaptation the Grammy winner was aiming for. A fan felt the plus-sized pop star would be great to play one of the Muses, Terpsichore, for the live-action Hercules remake, which the musician completely agreed about. It seems like she is ready to make the full crossover to film after her role in Hustlers.

While fans wait for Lizzo’s big-screen return, viewers will have to wait a bit to see how Melissa McCarthy does as Ursula. The Little Mermaid won’t arrive in theaters until May 26, 2023. The live-action remake is just on many upcoming Disney movies expected to premiere over the next few years. In the meantime, you can catch up on some quick things about the live-action remake, as well as peek at what films are coming in 2022 by looking over our movie schedule during the long wait.  

There are few modern comedies — R-rated or otherwise — that have shaken up the zeitgeist quite like 2011’s Bridesmaids. Directed by Paul Feig and starring and co-written by an Oscar-nominated Kristen Wiig, this lewd, gleefully debauched, unsuspectingly (yet expectedly) sweet-natured romp turned the rom-com genre on its head, letting the ladies get their chance to cuss, be crass, and have a ball in ways Hollywood larks traditionally didn't. The results were an instant critical and commercial success, and its rippling effects can still be felt in Hollywood today. 

Now that a whole decade (!!) has passed since Bridesmaids made its way into theaters, let’s take a look and see how far this talented female-lead ensemble, including Maya Rudolph, Rose Byrne, Chris O'Dowd, and an Oscar-nominated Melissa McCarthy, has come since they starred in producer Judd Apatow's satire. 

Kristen Wiig (Annie Walker)

As Annie Walker, a single 30-something woman who becomes Lillian’s maid of honor, Kristen Wiig plays the protagonist in Paul Feig's Bridesmaids. She also received an Oscar nomination for co-writing the screenplay. Most notably, Wiig received multiple Emmy nominations for her work on NBC’s Saturday Night Live. Her other television credits include The Spoils of Babylon, The Last Man on Earth, Arrested Development, Nobodies, The Spoils Before Dying, Bored to Death, and Wet Hot American Summer: First Day of Camp. Additionally, Wiig can be heard in Bless the Harts, Big Mouth, and The Looney Tunes Show. Also, the film and TV actress starred in Lifetime’s A Deadly Adoption opposite Will Ferrell. 

Kristen Wiig reunited with Paul Feig with Ghostbusters (2016). Her other starring roles include The Skeleton Twins, Where’d You Go, Bernadette, Welcome to Me, Girl Most Likely, and Hateship, Loveship. Wiig’s other notable film credits include The Martian, The Diary of a Teenage Girl, Downsizing, mother! Her, Paul, MacGruber, Whip It, Extract, Adventureland, Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story, Knocked Up, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues, and Wonder Woman 1984. As a voice actress, she can be heard in the How to Train Your Dragon movies, the Despicable Me sequels, Sausage Party, and Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs. Most recently, Wiig co-wrote, produced, and starred in Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar. Next, she will appear in Netflix’s A Boy Called Christmas. 

Maya Rudolph (Lillian Donovan)

In the role of Lillian Donovan, Annie’s soon-to-be-married best friend, Maya Rudolph plays our woman in white (and, to her distress, brown) throughout the ill-fated wedding preparations in Bridesmaids. Most notably, the actress won two Emmys for NBC’s SNL and two more Emmys for her voice work on Netflix’s Big Mouth. Her other television credits include The Good Place, for which she was also Emmy-nominated, Up All Night, The Spoils Before Dying, Maya & Marty, The Grinder, Forever, and Mapleworth Murders. Moreover, as a prolific voice actress, Rudolph is heard in Bless the Harts, Big Hero 6: The Series, and The Awesomes. Next, she’ll be seen in an untitled new Apple TV+ series and heard in Netflix’s Human Resources, a Big Mouth spin-off. She’s also expected to host Baking It. 

In film, additionally, Maya Rudolph can also be seen in Away We Go, The Way, Way Back, Inherent Vice, Idiocracy, MacGruber, A Praire Home Companion, 50 First Dates, Sisters, Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping, CHIPS, Life of the Party, The Happytime Murders, Wine Country, Hubie Halloween, and the Grown Ups movies. She can also be heard in Big Hero 6, The Willoughbys, The Emoji Movie, The Nut Job, Turbo, Shrek the Third, Zookeeper, and The Angry Birds Movie. Most recently, Rudolph lent her voice to Disney+’s Luca and Netflix’s The Mitchells vs. the Machines. Next, she'll appear in Licorice Pizza and Disney+’s Disenchanted.

Rose Byrne (Helen Harris III)

Playing the part of Helen Harris III, Lillian’s uber-successful and very well-to-do bridesmaid who quickly becomes the source of Annie’s envy and disdain, Rose Byrne became a comedy favorite through her prominent supporting role in Paul Feig’s Bridesmaids. Most notably, the actress received two Emmy nominations for her portrayal of Ellen Parsons in FX’s Damages. Byrne also appeared in Echo Point, No Activity, and HBO’s The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks. Last year, she was seen in Hulu’s Mrs. America. Currently, Byrne stars in Apple TV+’s Physical. 

On the big screen, Rose Byrne’s other notable film credits include the Neighbors movies, the Insidious films, X-Men: First Class, Get Him to the Greek, 28 Weeks Later, Sunshine, Troy, Star Wars: Episode II — Attack of the Clones, The Goddess of 1967, Juliet, Naked, Marie Antoinette, Knowing, The Place Beyond the Pines, and X-Men: Apocalypse. She also reunited with Paul Feig for Spy. Byrne's other movie credits include The Meddler, Annie (2014), Instant Family, Jexi, This is Where I Leave You, Adult Beginners, I Am Mother, and Peter Rabbit. Last year, she appeared in Like a Boss and Irresistible. Most recently, Byrne reprised her role as Beatrix in Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway. She was also seen in the short film, Shark. Next, Byrne will star in Seriously Red, which she will also produce. 

Melissa McCarthy (Megan Price)

As Megan Price, the most outspoken and foul-mouthed bridesmaid, Melissa McCarthy got an Oscar nomination for her thunderous supporting role in Bridesmaids. She later received her second Oscar nomination for her leading role in Can You Ever Forgive Me? Moreover, McCarthy reunited with Paul Feig with The Heat, Spy, and Ghostbusters (2016). Her other notable film credits include Identity Thief, The Happytime Murders, St. Vincent, The Hangover Part III, This Is 40, The Nines, Go, The Kitchen, and Charlie’s Angels. Additionally, McCarthy co-wrote, produced, and starred in Tammy, The Boss, and Life of the Party. Most recently, she produced and starred in HBO Max’s Superintelligence and Netflix’s Thunder Force. Also, McCarthy starred in Netflix’s The Startling and she produced Netflix’s Bob Ross: Happy Accidents, Betrayal & Greed. Next, the actress will be seen in The Little Mermaid (2023) and Thor: Love and Thunder.

On TV, Melissa McCarthy won an Emmy for her starring role in CBS’s Mike & Molly and another Emmy for her guest work on NBC’s SNL. Furthermore, the actress is well-known for playing Sookie St. James in The WB’s Gilmore Girls and Netflix’s Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life. McCarthy was also seen in Samatha Who? and Nobodies. Most recently, she produced and starred in Hulu’s Nine Perfect Strangers. Next, McCarthy stars in Netflix’s sitcom, God’s Favorite Idiot.

Chris O’Dowd (Officer Nathan Rhodes)

In the role of Officer Nathan Rhodes, a kind-hearted police officer who forms a cutesy friendship with Annie, Chris O’Dowd was an affable love interest in Paul Feig’s Bridesmaids. Most notably, the actor played Roy Trenneman in Channel 4’s The IT Crowd. Also, O’Dowd created and starred in Sky 1’s Moone Boy and won an Emmy for his performance in Sundance TV’s State of the Union. His other television credits include Girls, The Clinic, FM, Roman’s Empire, Family Tree, and The Twilight Zone. Currently, O’Dowd stars in Epix’s Get Shorty. Additionally, as a voice actor, he can be heard in Monsters vs Aliens. Puffin Rock, and Family Guy. 

Moreover, as a movie actor, Chris O’Dowd starred in The Sapphires. He can also be seen in This is 40, Calvary, St. Vincent, Thor: The Dark World, The Cloverfield Paradox, How to Build a Girl, Molly’s Game, The Incredible Jessica James, Miss Peregrine’s Home For Peculiar Children, Friends with Kids, Frequently Asked Questions About Time Travel, Pirate Radio, Gulliver’s Travels, Cuban Fury, and Mascots. O’Dowd also reunited with Rose Byrne in Juliet, Naked. Furthermore, the actor can be heard in Epic, Mary Poppins Returns, and Loving Vincent. Earlier this year, he reunited with Bridesmaids co-star Melissa McCarthy with Netflix’s The Startling. Next, O’Dowd will star in Hippie Hippie Shake and Slumberland. 

Ellie Kemper (Becca)

As Becca, an enthusiastic, overeager bridesmaid who’s very excited to be in the bridal party, Ellie Kemper played a happy-go-lucky gal in Paul Feig’s Bridesmaids. Most notably, she received two Emmy nominations for Netflix’s Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt. Additionally, Kemper is well-known for playing Erin Hannon in NBC’s The Office. Furthermore, she can be seen in The Mindy Project. As a voice actress, moreover, Kemper can be heard in We Bare Bears and Sofia the First.

Away from TV, Ellie Kemper is known for playing Ms. Griggs in 21 Jump Street. She can also be seen in Sex Tape, Laggies, They Came Together, Somewhere, Identity Thief, Get Him to the Greek, and Mystery Team. Additionally, as a voice actress, Kemper can be heard in The Secret Life of Pets 1 & 2, Smurfs: The Lost Village, The LEGO Batman Movie, and We Bare Bears: The Movie. Most recently, she was seen in The Stand-In. Next, Kemper will star in Disney+’s Home Sweet Home Alone. Currently, the actress is filming Netflix’s Happiness for Beginners. 

Wendi McLendon-Covey (Rita)

In the role of Rita, Lillian’s domesticated cousin who’s really, really ready to let loose and have fun, Wendi McLendon-Covey plays a spirited character in 2011’s Bridesmaids. Most notably, the television actress is known for her starring parts in Comedy Central-Quibi’s Reno 911! and ABC’s The Goldbergs. McLendon-Covey can also be seen in Rules of Engagement, Lovespring International, and Modern Family. Additionally, as a voice actress, she has lent her voice to Big City Greens, Puppy Dog Pals, Crossing Swords, Bob’s Burgers, Pickle and Peanut, American Dad!, The Looney Tunes Show, Birdgirl, and, most recently, Marvel’s M.O.D.O.K. 

In film, Wendi McLendon-Covey can be seen in What to Expect When You're Expecting, Bewitched, Think Like a Man Too, Hello My Name Is Doris, What Men Want, Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween, Think Like a Man Too, Reno 911! Miami, and Blended. She also co-wrote, produced, and starred in Cook Off! Most recently, McLendon-Covey was seen in Sylvie’s Love, Braking for Whales, and Long Weekend. Next, the actress will appear in Paint and Sick Girl. 

Jon Hamm (Ted)

Playing the part of Ted, Annie’s self-absorbed, dim-witted friend with benefits, Jon Hamm stole the show in his uncredited role in Bridesmaids. Most notably, the actor is acclaimed for his Emmy-winning lead performance as Don Draper in AMC’s Mad Men. His other notable TV credits include Black Mirror, A Young Doctor's Notebook, Good Omens, 30 Rock, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Parks and Recreation, Curb Your Enthusiasm, The Division, Children’s Hospital, and Wet Hot American Summer: First Day of Camp. Additionally, Hamm can be heard in Bless the Harts, Marvel’s M.O.D.O.K., The Amazing Gayl Pile, Legion, Archer, and Robot Chicken. Most recently, he lent his voice to Amazon Prime’s Invincible. 

Furthermore, Jon Hamm’s other film credits include The Town, Tag, The Report, Beirut, Million Dollar Arm, Baby Driver, Keeping Up with the Joneses, Marjorie Prime, Friends with Kids, We Were Soldiers, Ira & Abby, Richard Jewell, Sucker Punch, Lucy in the Sky, Bad Times at the El Royale, and Kissing Jessica Stein. As a voice actor, he's heard in Shrek Forever After and Minions. Most recently, Hamm was seen in The Jesus Roll, Wild Moutain Thyme, and HBO Max’s No Sudden Move. Next, he’ll appear in Top Gun: Maverick, Corner Office, and Confess, Fletch, which he'll also produce. Currently, Hamm is filming Maggie Moore(s). 

Rebel Wilson (Brynn)

Playing the part of Brynn, Annie’s immigrant roommate, Rebel Wilson had a pre-fame supporting role in Paul Feig’s Bridesmaids. Shortly after this film’s release, the actress found fame as Fat Amy in the Pitch Perfect movies. Wilson’s other movie credits include Bachelorette, What to Expect When You’re Expecting, How to Be Single, Struck By Lightning, The Brothers Grimsby, Isn’t It Romantic, The Hustle, Jojo Rabbit, Pain & Gain, Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb, and Cats. The actress is also heard in Ice Age: Continental Drift. Next, Wilson will star in Senior Year, which she'll also produce, and The Almond and the Seahorse. 

Additionally, on TV, Rebel Wilson wrote, produced, and starred in Bogan Pride. She's also seen in Pizza, The Wedge, and Thank God You’re Here. Furthermore, Wilson created and starred in ABC’s Super Fun Night. Moreover, the actress was the host of Seven Network’s Pooch Perfect and Amazon Prime’s LOL: Australia. 

Bridesmaids is available to rent on Amazon.

Though the Covid-19 pandemic continues, Melissa McCarthy has already had a film release this year, Thunder Force (for which the reviews were… not so positive). Now she’s back on the big screen, this time for the comedy-drama The Starling, before the movie eventually lands on Netflix. In it she co-stars with Chris O’Dowd, Kevin Kline, Timothy Olyphant, Daveed Diggs, Skyler Gisondo, Laura Harrier, and Loretta Devine. The drama features McCarthy and O’Dowd as Lilly and Jack, a married couple who lose their baby, which leads Jack to head off to deal with his grief while Lilly remains in the "real" world, dealing with her own guilt. As if Lilly's troubles weren't bad enough, a starling begins to harass her and she becomes comically obsessed with trying to kill it. The movie was directed by Theodore Melif (Hidden Figures) and written by Matt Harris.

The comedy-drama flick will have a limited theatrical release tomorrow, September 17, and will be available to stream on Netflix next Friday, September 24. But The Starling just had its world premiere at TIFF, and the response from critics so far has been… unfavorable, to say the least. Why don’t we take a look?

While our own review hasn't been released yet, the critical response is looking pretty brutal so far. Caryn James from The Hollywood Reporter thought McCarthy, O’Dowd, and Kline deserve way better than this “misfire.” James criticized everything from the horrible script, the trite and predictable storyline, to the abundance of cliches. She also noted that there are too many underused actors, giving Diggs and Olyphant as examples. Overall, James noted:

Elizabeth Weitzman of The Wrap also criticized the “shallow” script by Harris. She thought O’Dowd was best at actually bringing emotion to his character when the dialogue was so constricting, but she noted that the rest of the characters did the best they could, as they had more terrible writing to trudge through. Weitzman also commented on the terrible metaphors and the too-familiar aspect of The Starling, noting overall:

See, I told you critics were picking this movie apart. Peter Bradshaw from The Guardian considers The Starling a complete waste of everyone’s time. He criticized the under-utilized side characters like Olyphant, a comment we saw above. He was also disappointed with the clunkily obvious metaphors and the lack of common sense in the plot, noting overall:

While Guy Lodge from Variety complemented McCarthy’s always “reliably buoyant charisma” in her role, he argued that it’s not enough to make The Starling a good movie. Like previous critics, he considered the dramedy too predictable and full of overqualified actors who are too under-utilized. Lodge also commented on the corny and cringe-worthy dialogue that didn’t demand much from the great cast, noting:

While Lodge thought McCarthy had charisma, Carla Meyer from The San Francisco Chronicle thought the actress was actually pretty out of touch with her character, noting that each moment of physical comedy is cringey and tortured. Meyer did comment that the third act of the movie was a little more enjoyable, but not enough to make it a good film. She also criticized the uneven acting and the soundtrack, while also arguing that while O’Dowd wasn’t given enough to work with, McCarthy was given too much at once. Meyer was pretty disappointed with the flick, noting:

Well, that was... bleak. While the critical response of the Melissa McCarthy-led flick has been pretty brutal so far, you might actually enjoy the comedy-drama. You'll be able to form your own opinion soon enough, as the film releases in select theaters tomorrow, September 17, and on Netflix next Friday, September 24. You can also check out what else is coming to Netflix this year with our release guide.

Spoilers below for the first three episodes of Hulu’s Nine Perfect Strangers, so be warned!

In releasing Nine Perfect Strangers’ initial trio of installments, Hulu gave viewers enough line to bait us, hook us, and then pull our jaws down with that hook, as Nicole Kidman’s Masha was revealed to be drugging Tranquillum House’s current visitors. That includes Bobby Cannavale’s Tony “Smiley” Hogburn, the former football player harboring both emotionally and physically deep-seated pains, with addictions and traumas that have soured his geniality. But after a few days of Masha’s smoothies and a few run-ins with Melissa McCarthy’s shame-stricken author Frances, Tony is already seemingly finding some light in the darkness.

Ahead of Nine Perfect Strangers’ premiere, I had the pleasure of speaking with Smiley himself, Bobby Cannavale, as seen in the video above. When I asked what drew him into playing a character with such a dark and moody headspace, he said it was partially because he wasn’t quite sure how to play that kind of self-defeating character, which led to him finding ways to turn that darkness back in on itself with humor. In his words:

Tony is bordering on being a stereotypical Grinch-Scrooge when Nine Perfect Strangers begins, before it’s fully understood that being a super-douche isn’t the character’s most natural state. That said, it’s still easier for him to be harsh than it is for him to ask for help, which is exactly why he ended up at Tranquillum House being drugged by Masha; though I still have to admit that Bobby Cannavale has naturally likeable qualities that already made it hard to dislike Tony early on. Regardless, viewers get to watch amusing moments that play off of both Tony’s pill-hungry desperation and his dopamine-fueled playfulness. (And there’s definitely more fun to come, but that’s for a later time.)

While the star-studded Nine Perfect Strangers hasn’t made Tony and Frances BFFs or anything, it’s clear the creative team is bending their parallel paths to something more connected. Which is perfect for Bobby Cannavale and Melissa McCarthy, who have played enemies in Spy and Thunder Force and a couple in Superintelligence. Here, Cannavale gets to take on a much more nuanced and authentic connection with McCarthy as both characters start to peel back their defensive layers. When I asked the actor about working with McCarthy again in this capacity, he said:

With the now-added context that seemingly all of the guests we’ve met in Nine Perfect Strangers have been imbibing on some form of intoxicant (against their will, no less, but that’s also something for another time), it’ll definitely be interesting to see how Tony’s body aches and mental woes will be affected by trading one drug for another. As well as how his not-quite-friendship-yet with Frances will expand or contract, assuming everyone doesn’t just pack up and leave in Episode 4. But that wouldn’t make for a very interesting next five episodes, would it?

New episodes of Nine Perfect Strangers stream on Hulu every Wednesday at 3:01 a.m. While waiting for the next episode, be sure to keep up with all the upcoming premieres with our 2021 Fall TV schedule.

Mariska Hargitay has had quite the summer. Not long after wrapping on Season 22 of Law & Order: SVU the star ended up doing some serious damage to both of her legs in late May. Then, the star slipped in the rain outside of a Black Widow screening in early July, and actually broke her ankle. Just a few days later, Oscar nominee Melissa McCarthy showed some very public support for her friend, and now McCarthy's talking about why she went so far for Hargitay after her injury.

If this story managed to pass you by when it went around in the middle of July, then know that when I say "very public support" I really mean the most public support that someone could show a friend who's hurt themselves. Melissa McCarthy didn't just post online about Mariska Hargitay's broken ankle. Oh, no, friends. The famed funny lady truly went above and beyond by standing outside of a Wienerschnitzel fast food joint with a sign that said, “Honk if you’re PRAYING for Mariska Hargitay’s recovery!!!” Then, she posted video of that online.

Recently, McCarthy stopped by The Tonight Show, and when host Jimmy Fallon asked her to explain her extremely public championing for Hargitay's recovery, she said:

Melissa McCarthy then said that she made her next move quite quickly, and jumped into the car, got herself to the Wienerschnitzel in Burbank, California (which I can only assume is pretty close to her home), and began holding up her sign as she jumped around on the sidewalk in front of the location. Not only was this an awesome show of dedication and friendship from McCarthy to Mariska Hargitay, but she did the whole thing in what appears to be a very comfy jumpsuit.

I can't tell for sure, but McCarthy's outfit might have been pajamas, and if so, that calls for several extra kudos as far as I'm concerned. Never wear real clothes unless you have to, kids.

As Fallon noted during the interview, most people wouldn't have dreamed of going this far in asking for kind words for an injured friend, but Melissa McCarthy said that a large part of her being a "terrible" texter is due to her lack of interest in her phone, in general. Apparently, she's been known to "put my phone in my purse for three days" and completely ignore a number of messages, which is why Mariska Hargitay was unable to reach her, and why this large gesture felt necessary.

Luckily, Mariska Hargitay is on the mend (and had plenty of mental energy to troll fans after her original injury), and returned to the Law & Order: SVU set earlier this month. But, while Melissa McCarthy's efforts probably did wonders for her mood, she's not totally out of the woods where her injury is concerned just yet.

Audiences won't see Olivia Benson on crutches when Season 23 begins, but the show is planning to work her current state into the show somehow, in the season premiere. While this might throw the timeline out of wack a bit (and possibly lead to not having SVU lined up with Law & Order: Organized Crime anymore), I'm sure the teams behind both shows have already figured out exactly how to make this work.

Law & Order: SVU will be back for Season 23 with a two-hour premiere on September 23, with Law & Order: Organized Crime Season 2 debuting right after. For more to watch. check out our 2021 fall TV schedule!

Nine Perfect Strangers, making its Hulu debut on August 18, is the story of nine people who arrive at the mystical Tranquillum House hoping for a transformative experience. The adaptation of Liane Moriarty's bestselling novel features an ensemble of A-list actors within its gorgeous Australian setting, where mysteries abound among both the guests and the staff running the retreat, all under the supervision of the ethereal Masha, played by Nicole Kidman.

The series reunites Nicole Kidman with Liane Moriarty, who wrote both Nine Perfect Strangers and Big Little Lies, and with David E. Kelley, who created the adaptations for the aforementioned novels. With the success of HBO’s Big Little Lies — as well as The Undoing, which was also created by Kelley and starred Kidman — there’s much anticipation for this latest project. So what are critics saying, now that they’ve had a glimpse inside Tranquillum House? Let’s take a look, starting with our own mini-review.

CinemaBlend’s Nick Venable praised the cast, notably Bobby Cannavale and Regina Hall, and the masterful way all of the actors blend the suspense with the comedy. He also recognized the series for adapting Liane Moriarty's book into a more screen-friendly format.

On the flip side, TV Line noted that while the series boasts an impressive cast, led by Nicole Kidman and Melissa McCarthy, the characters’ stories and personalities struggle to come together.

The Hollywood Reporter also thought the Hulu series lacked any deep dive into its multiple characters in the episodes screened for critics, and questioned which aspect of the show viewers are supposed to be invested in.

Variety pointed out that Nicole Kidman’s somewhat limited screentime — which allows viewers to get to know the nine strangers at the retreat and the baggage they’ve come in with — prohibits her from taking a firm grasp on the series.

While other reviews were troubled by the different tones each character brought, Collider found delight in the ensemble's mix of genres, calling the Hulu series “one of the most intriguing shows of the year.”

Most critics seem to agree on one thing, at least. While Nine Perfect Strangers debatably misses the mark in places with its narrative and tone, the talent of the collective cast makes this series worth checking out for anyone on the fence.

The first three episodes of Nine Perfect Strangers will be released August 18 on Hulu, with new episodes dropping each Wednesday. While we wait, be sure to check out our 2021 Fall TV schedule to see what else is coming soon.

Law & Order: SVU’s 23rd season is on the way in the fall, which means everyone needs to be on their game as production kicks off, especially for the drama’s milestone 500th episode. However, series star Mariska Hargitay’s latest leg injury might be a problem, all thanks to Black Widow, but she is getting some support from Melissa McCarthy.

Melissa McCarthy, who is friends with the SVU star, posted a video of herself on Instagram, standing outside a Wienerschnitzel and holding up a sign that says “Honk if you’re PRAYING for Mariska Hargitay’s recovery!!!” And if that doesn’t say friendship, I don’t know what does.

As Melissa McCarthy is showing some A+ support to her friend, Mariska Hargitay is taking it in stride. Following a recent screening of Black Widow, the actress fell in the rain outside the theater, injuring her ankle which looked to be on the same leg as her previous knee injury. She praised McCarthy’s humorous support on Instagram, with various hashtags that are a mix of comedy and serious:

The SVU actress has already had quite an eventful summer, so it’s nice to see that a friend is coming out in full force to show support. Since she will be going back to work for SVU Season 23, hopefully she has a speedy recovery. Or maybe they will just incorporate her injury into the first half of Season 23, as that has happened to actors before. Moreover, at least Melissa McCarthy will likely be ready to support Mariska Hargitay during her recovery, however long that takes. Hargitay has been in good spirits since the injury and joking around, but it’s still a bummer that her summer has involved so much pain.

It can be hard joking around when you’re hurting, but it’s easier when you have a great support system, something that Mariska Hargitay doesn’t seem to be lacking. Here’s hoping that she gets a full recovery before Season 23 of SVU starts filming, though it would be interesting to see what Olivia Benson looks like with a brace on for a few episodes and how it would affect the storyline. Anything can happen in the summer while on hiatus but it just goes to show that everywhere you go, you have to be careful, even when walking outside after seeing a movie in the rain.

We are wishing Mariska Hargitay a speedy recovery! With SVU premiering in the fall, it shouldn’t be long until filming begins. In the meantime, check out our 2021 summer TV guide to see what shows to look forward to before summer comes to a close.

The upcoming Hulu thriller Nine Perfect Strangers, set for a staggered release in August, is the story of nine people who are seeking relief via a health and wellness retreat at the beautiful and isolated Tranquillum House. It's a fair assumption the series, adapted from the book of the same name by Big Little Lies author Liane Moriarty, will provide its characters with quite a different experience than the brochure promised. The cast, led by The Undoing's Nicole Kidman and Thunder Force's Melissa McCarthy, is a who's who of awards show invitees, and I can't wait to see how this ensemble comes together to act out what is sure to be pure, delicious madness.

Created by David E. Kelley (Big Little Lies, The Undoing), Nine Perfect Strangers promises to be a dark and twisty journey, with frequent Kelley collaborator Nicole Kidman leading the way as Masha, the head of Tranquillum House. The nine strangers who have signed up for the pricey ten-day retreat are all seeking transformation, and the eight-episode miniseries should give viewers plenty of quality time to take that trip with the eclectic bunch. Here's a look at who will portray the retreat-goers, as well as the Tranquillum House staff, and remember to check back for more updates as we get closer to the August 18 premiere.

Nicole Kidman (Masha Dmitrichenko)

No stranger to Liane Moriarty's work, Nicole Kidman will play the role of Tranquillum House leader Masha Dmitrichenko, which comes with a nice paycheck for Kidman, who is reportedly pulling in $1 million per episode. Aside from her award-winning role as Celeste on Big Little Lies — for which Moriarty might be working on Season 3 source material — Kidman starred in David E. Kelley's disturbing miniseries The Undoing. She's also known from her work as Satine in Moulin Rouge!, Virginia Woolf in The Hours, and multiple other roles, and has another high-profile upcoming project coming in Aaron Sorkin's Lucille Ball biopic Being the Ricardos.

Melissa McCarthy (Frances Welty)

Nine Perfect Strangers features Melissa McCarthy's return to television for her first series regular role since Mike and Molly, though Nobodies and SNL kept her busy in recent years. Her character, romance writer Frances Welty, goes to Tranquillum House "in need of some fixing," according to the series' trailer. A master of both comedy and drama, McCarthy is known for her hilarious roles in Thunder Force opposite Jason Bateman and as Megan in Bridesmaids, among others. And who could forget Sookie from Gilmore Girls?

Michael Shannon (Napoleon Marconi)

Michael Shannon is set to bring his signature intensity as the Marconi family patriarch Napoleon, who is attending the Tranquillum House retreat with his wife and daughter after a family tragedy. Shannon's ability to bring humor to a dramatic performance should fit this role perfectly. Shannon is known for portraying as Zod in Man of Steel, as well as Walt Thrombey in Knives Out and Richard Strickland in The Shape of Water, and was nominated for an Academy Award for his role in Revolutionary Road. On the TV side of things, he's best known for playing Nelson Van Alden in the HBO series Boardwalk Empire and Shannon will also appear in Bullet Train starring Brad Pitt and most of the rest of Hollywood, set for release in 2022.

Asher Keddie (Heather Marconi)

Asher Keddie is set to play Napoleon Marconi's wife, Heather. The highly decorated Australian actress is known particularly for her role as Nina Proudman on the Australian drama Offspring, but American audiences might still recognize her. Keddie had a small role as Dr. Carol Frost in X-Men Origins: Wolverine, starring Hugh Jackman.

Grace Van Patten (Zoe Marconi)

Grace Van Patten rounds out the Marconi family as the couple's young adult daughter Zoe. Van Patten is known for her roles in the Netflix movies Tramps and The Meyerowitz Stories as Adam Sandler's daughter. As a child she made guest appearances in episodes of The Sopranos and Boardwalk Empire.

Luke Evans (Lars Lee)

Divorce lawyer Lars Lee will be played in Nine Perfect Strangers by Luke Evans, who won audiences over as Gaston in the 2017 live action remake of Beauty and the Beast (and will do the same again in the upcoming TV spinoff.) He'll take on another Disney role soon as The Coachman in the upcoming live-action Pinocchio movie. Others may recognize Evans as Owen Shaw from the Fast and Furious franchise and apparent bad-guy Scott in The Girl on the Train, while his most prominent TV work of late came in TNT's crime drama The Alienist.

Samara Weaving (Jessica Chandler)

Australian actress Samara Weaving has made a name for herself as one of the great modern scream queens for her roles in movies like Ready or Not, The Babysitter and Mayhem. Which makes me wonder just how horrifying the retreat will turn out to be for Weaving's seemingly lucky lottery winner Jessica Chandler in Nine Perfect Strangers. But Weaving is no one-trick-pony, as she showed off her comedy chops as Ted's daughter Thea in Bill & Ted Face the Music, as well as in SMILF and Guns Akimbo.

Melvin Gregg (Ben Chandler)

While the characters may have won the lottery, it doesn't appear as if Melvin Gregg's Ben Chandler and wife Jessica are living their dream, or anyone else's, as they make their way to Nine Perfect Strangers' Tranquillum House. Gregg is known for his roles as DeMarcus Tillman in Netflix's mockumentary series American Vandal and Erick Scott in High Flying Bird. He also played Marcus Parrish in The Way Back with Ben Affleck.

Regina Hall (Carmel Schneider)

Another entertainer known for her hilarious comedy skills, Regina Hall will presumably dial up the drama to play Carmel Schneider, a single mother struggling with the demise of her relationship. Hall is known for her roles as Jordan Sanders in Little and Brenda in the Scary Movie franchise. She played Lisa in the critically acclaimed film Support the Girls and is a standout opposite Don Cheadle as Dawn on the Showtime comedy Black Monday.

Bobby Cannavale (Tony Hogburn)

Tony Hogburn, a former athlete attending the Tranquillum House retreat, will be played by Bobby Cannavale, who appeared in Thunder Force with Melissa McCarthy. Cannavale has been in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as well as a smorgasbord of HBO series including Sex and the City, two episodes of Oz, Boardwalk Empire (for which he won an Emmy) and Vinyl. You might also recognize him as one of Will and Grace's best guest stars as Vince D'Angelo, or from a zillion other roles. Cannavale has quite a few projects in the works, including Sing 2.

Manny Jacinto (Yao)

Best known as the Jacksonville Jaguars-loving Jason Mendoza from The Good Place, Manny Jacinto seems to be going in a wildly different direction as Tranquillum House staff member Yao. In fact, I bet there’s a good chance Yao has never yelled, “BORTLES!” even one time in his whole life, though he would certain bet the quarter back some refreshments and/or a hot towel. Jacinto is also set to play a pilot named Fritz in the highly anticipated sequel Top Gun: Maverick later this year.

Tiffany Boone (Delilah)

Tiffany Boone rounds out the ensemble, playing fellow Tranquillum House staff member Delilah. No stranger to Hulu, Boone previously channeled her inner Kerry Washington as young Mia on Little Fires Everywhere and is also known for her roles as Roxy Jones on Hunters and Jerrika Little on The Chi.

Nine Perfect Strangers will bring loads of talent and personalities together on screen, and coupled with the storytelling of author Liane Moriarty and creator David E. Kelly, this Hulu miniseries should be considered a can't-miss event when it premieres August 18. Until then, be sure to check out our 2021 summer TV schedule, as well as what else is coming soon to Hulu.

Remember when we had to write letters to our future selves in high school? I do. Mine was full of Taylor Swift lyrics and teenage angst. It wasn’t very helpful when I opened it my senior year. I would have much rather read the one Melissa McCarthy just shared on social media.

Yes, like so many of us, Melissa McCarthy once wrote a note to her older self, and she decided to share its contents to the Instagram masses. Take a look below:

Talk about empowering. Rather than go over old boyfriends or high school drama, Melissa McCarthy shared a plethora of inspiring messages, topped off with her trademark sense of humor (of course a walk of shame can be character-building). Not only did she encourage her future self to “for the love of God, buy both pairs of shoes” and “just eat the damn cookie!!,” Melissa McCarthy also focused on relationships. Past boyfriends are just dust in the wind, and when in doubt, call Mom (I can personally vouch for that last one).

Multiple celebrities posted positive comments on Melissa McCarthy’s inspiring message, including Hilary Swank, Courteney Cox, Luke Evans, and Drew Scott of The Property Brothers. As if her plethora of supportive Hollywood friends wasn’t proof enough, McCarthy’s enormous success in the entertainment industry shows that she followed her past self’s advice. After being introduced to audiences as Sookie St. James on Amy Sherman-Palladino’s hit Gilmore Girls, she nabbed a leading role on the hit CBS sitcom Mike & Molly. The show earned Melissa McCarthy the 2011 Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series.

Not impressed yet? Keep in mind that 2011 was the same year she cracked us up in Paul Feig’s Bridesmaids alongside Kristen Wiig and Maya Rudolph. Melissa McCarthy was so hilarious that she earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. How often do you see Oscar nominations for purely comedic films?

No one would fault Melissa McCarthy for needing a break after all those prestigious honors, but she just kept on making movies and continues to do so. Her most recent film, Thunder Force, just premiered on Netflix. Melissa McCarthy plays a superhero alongside fellow award-winning actress Octavia Spencer, and you're welcome to read CinemaBlend's review of the movie.

As for upcoming projects, Melissa McCarthy has those in abundance. She’ll be joining Nicole Kidman, Samara Weaving and Manny Jacinto, among others, in Hulu’s adaption of Liane Moriarty’s novel Nine Perfect Strangers. Another project for streaming, The Starling, will tell the story of a couple (Melissa McCarthy and Chris O’Dowd) dealing with the fallout of a devastating tragedy. And I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Melissa McCarthy’s upcoming turn as the sea witch Ursula in Disney’s live-action remake of The Little Mermaid. She’ll be joined by Halle Bailey as Ariel and Javier Bardem as King Triton.

Since releasing a few weeks ago Melissa McCarthy’s Thunder Force has made headlines for the comedic chops of its all star cast, wild sex scenes and a particularly disgusting ending. After saving the residents of Chicago, McCarthy's character shares a plate of what appears to be raw chicken in an intimate celebration with Jason Bateman's The Crab. It’s particularly nasty due to just how realistic the raw chicken looks, and apparently the crew had one hell of a time finding the perfect supplement for actual raw chicken.

In a recent interview Melissa McCarthy revealed the painstaking process of simulating actual raw chicken for the camera. In her own words:

She dished the details in an interview with co-star Octavia Spencer on BuzzFeed. Fortunately, McCarthy didn’t end up eating actual raw chicken, as the crew found a surprisingly sweet substitute:

I mean, on one hand I’m happy they pulled off such a convincing substitute. On the other hand, I can’t imagine it was easy to scarf those things down. The raw chicken bit is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of gonzo comedy found in Thunder Force. At one point there’s a particularly intimate dance number between her character and Jason Bateman's The Crab (who is sporting straight up crab claws as arms), all to the sultry saxophone of Glenn Frey.

While the superhero comedy may not have been as warmly received by critics as it was by fans, there was still plenty to like. A number of viewers were quick to praise it’s diverse representation and Jason Bateman’s half-crab character.

If you haven’t seen it yet, Thunder Force is now streaming on Netflix. While it’s certainly not an MCU flick, the Netflix comedy offers a fun and fresh spin on the superhero genre, even if things get a little zany at times.

Years after audiences latch onto mega successful movies like director Paul Feig’s Bridesmaids, there’s some lines that stick to the minds of fans. And in the case of Melissa McCarthy, one particular line was an ad-libbed moment of sexual energy in front of a random extra. So naturally, when the Thunder Force star was reminded of this magic moment, she had to share just how climbing a man like a tree came to be a moment no one would ever forget.

In a fun game during their interview with PopSugar, Thunder Force duo Melissa McCarthy and Octavia Spencer quizzed each other about some random lines from past roles. For Spencer, one such moment recalled a piece of dialogue from her time on the set of the Academy Award winner The Shape of Water. But for McCarthy, her intent to romance a random extra on the Bridesmaids set supplied the magic words of the moment. Which came to pass thanks to the following inspiration, and resulted in her telling a stranger shed like to climb him like a tree. She explained,

Playing the Bridesmaids character of Megan Price, a role that almost went to co-star Rebel Wilson, Melissa McCarthy landed a breakout performance through brute comedic force. A woman who wasn’t afraid to conquer the world and its men with her filterless personality, McCarthy would even land an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress in the film. A lot of memories and a versatile career all came from this place in time, thanks to the scene shown below that shows the very ad-lib she fessed up to.

To be perfectly honest, the gentleman extra in this Bridesmaids scene is playing the moment off like a champion himself. Such was the alchemic nature of Melissa McCarthy, Kristen Wiig, and the insanely talented roster of talent that served under Paul Feig’s steady hand. And in the end, Bridesmaids was made all the more memorable because McCarthy was quick on her feet, playing the hand she and her co-stars were dealt.

In the moment, Melissa McCarthy’s big Bridesmaids ad-lib might have led to a moment of discomfort. Then again, the actor may not have thought any differently about Ms. McCarthy’s fictitious desire to climb him like a tree. No matter what the result, those comedy instincts have kept her at the forefront of the comedy game in the years that followed. Which is part of why Thunder Force is currently available on Netflix, should you want to see some of the antics that Melissa McCarthy got into with Octavia Spencer. Though if you want to watch Bridesmaids, Peacock has you covered on that end.

Melissa McCarthy’s latest superhero comedy, Thunder Force, has made headlines recently for some of the bizarre scenes featuring Jason Bateman as Jerry, aka The Crab. After a particularly wacky sequence featuring some Crab-like sex, the duo once again shocked fans with a scene toward the end of the film, eating what appeared to be raw chicken. Delicious!

Recently, Thunder Force director Ben Falcone revealed exactly what she was eating alongside Ozark star Jason Bateman. Fortunately, they weren’t actually consuming raw chicken (much to The Crab’s chagrin). Instead, they had a much sweeter substitute on set. According to the director:

First reported by The Wrap, Ben Falcone, who is married to McCarthy, said the pears were so realistic looking that even the staff was grossed out. Melissa McCarthy herself had trouble actually getting through it, apparently because it was hard to envision the pears as anything but raw chicken.

To be honest, I can understand where she’s coming from. Not only is raw chicken just disgusting to think about eating, it’s also incredibly unsafe. Even if they were just pears at the end of the day, it can’t be easy to convince yourself to eat them, let alone act like you are enjoying it!

The raw chicken bit is the cherry on top of Thunder Force’s out-there brand of comedy. At one point in the film McCarthy’s character has an impromptu dance sequence with Bateman’s The Crab. Naturally, they dance to the sax-laden tune “You Belong To The City” by Eagles frontman Glenn Frey. But to be fair, it kind of rules.

That’s just a taste of the shenanigans that happen while Thunder Force’s Melissa McCarthy and Octavia Spencer take on the villainous King, played by Bobby Cannavale. Despite the all-star comedic talent involved, the cast recently revealed that the funniest person on set was MCU veteran, Pom Klementieff.

While fans and critics may have been lukewarm on the Netflix comedy, Thunder Force is a fresh spin on the increasingly popular superhero genre. Even with the gonzo comedy and disgusting raw chicken consumption, McCarthy’s latest venture was able to satiate my superhero appetite until the long-awaited Black Widow releases later this year. Fans can check out Thunder Force on Netflix, where it’s streaming right now.

Thunder Force on Netflix, the superhero comedy starring Melissa McCarthy and Octavia Spencer as two estranged childhood friends who are transformed into superheroes, isn’t getting a lot of love from the film critics since its April 2021 debut. But while reviewers, including CinemaBlend’s own Eric Eisenberg bring up a lot of good points in his Thunder Force review of Ben Falcone’s latest effort, you may be wondering what everyday Netflix subscribers think about the star-studded affair and if maybe they enjoyed the movie.

Well, as it stands, Thunder Force currently has Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score of 25% which is only one point better than its critical response. But it’s not all bad news as a number of the movie’s fans have found several elements of Thunder Force that they actually like, so much so they took to Twitter to let the world know. Here are some of their thoughts.

Whether Or Not They Loved The Movie, Some Fans Loved Thunder Force’s Representation Of Female Superheroes

Just because you don’t like a movie doesn’t mean that you can’t find something within its narrative or presentation that's worthwhile and that seems to be the case for a number of Thunder Force fans, who despite not enjoying the movie all that much, took note of the triumphs it made in the representation department. Throughout the movie, Lydia Berman (Melissa McCarthy), Emily Stanton (Octavia Spencer), and Tracy Stanton (Taylor Mosby) are all treated with respect (well, when Lydia isn’t eating raw chicken) and prove that you don’t have to be prototypical superhero to save the city from a supercharged villain like William “The King” Stevens (Bobby Cannavale) and his band of miscreants.

One Twitter user seemed underwhelmed by the acting and story, but noted that there was a lot of LGBTQ representation, which honestly isn’t something that happens enough in the superhero genre:

Another person who watched Thunder Force shortly after its release and took to Twitter to share their thoughts called the movie “so-so” but enjoyed seeing smart Black women and girls having meaningful roles in the genre:

And then there was someone who, despite describing the movie as “meh,” does seem to appreciate the sight of Melissa McCarthy and Octavia Spencer as the superhero leads of this story.

All of these Thunder Force fans bring up a great point about the way the film handled diversity, which is honestly great to see as it helps break up the movie filled with an obscene amount of absurd and asinine concepts and humor.

Fans Can’t Get Enough Of Jason Bateman

On a lighter note, a lot of people who watched Thunder Force on Netflix the first weekend of its release all seemed to agree on something: they couldn’t get enough of Jason Bateman and his performance as Jerry “The Crab” a half-miscreant whose arms were turned into crab claws following an unfortunate underwater experience prior to the events of the movie. And like a lot of the fan reactions you’re about to see, I too couldn’t get enough of Bateman whether he was scuttling from side-to-side or using his claws for non-criminal activities.

This Twitter user commented on Thunder Force saying that the movie was indeed fun but it was the inclusion of Jason Bateman that made the movie for the them:

Some actors get grief for never changing up their characters, but one Thunder Force fan doesn’t care and actually seems to admire the Arrested Development star for it:

There are some, on the other hand (or claw), who are oddly attracted to Jason Bateman’s crustacean mutation, so there’s that:

And then some people who just want to show stuff like this (I’m not blaming them):

Honestly, it’s hard to not like Jason Bateman whenever he’s on screen in Thunder Force, and if a sequel (or prequel) were to ever be made, I’d love to see the rest of his story.

Okay, We Have To Talk About The Raw Chicken In Thunder Force

Spend enough time on the internet and you’ll find plenty, I mean plenty, of people who are obsessed with all that raw chicken in Thunder Force. Introduced earlier on with Lydia is told it’s the only thing her now-superhuman body can handle, the raw chicken gimmick comes up time and time again. Hell, it even ended up being featured at the end of the movie when Jerry “The Crab” feeds his newfound lover pieces of raw meat with his tiny little baby crab claws. Here are a few of the best reactions to all that disgusting chicken footage.

First, there’s the one Twitter user who went to bed shortly after watching Thunder Force only to wake up the next morning still consumed with questions about the chicken, namely, were they eating actual raw meat:

Another person came up with one remarkable way of promoting Thunder Force with an oft-overlooked segment of the population:

And then there was the Twitter user who came up with what is possibly the best way to describe the plot and character motivations in Thunder Force:

The raw chicken bit, while absolutely disgusting (I mean, dealing with raw poultry is the absolute worst), makes for some of the biggest laughs in Thunder Force, even though they do get a little fowl near the end there.

As you can see, the Thunder Force fan reaction is sort of all over the place. On one hand, you have people who love the way the Netflix movie treated female and LGBTQ characters. Then you have others who loved Jason Bateman’s performance. And then you have those folks who just can’t stop thinking about all that raw chicken, but I think we all are more than a little curious about that business.

If you weren’t the biggest fan of Thunder Force and didn’t think it was one of the best Netflix movies, fear not as there are plenty of 2021 new movie releases to keep you occupied while you get that raw chicken taste out of your mouth.

Sex scenes are controversial territory when it comes to filmmaking. While some are willing to bare all for the big screen, other major celebrities outright refuse to do them. Recently, Netflix’s Thunder Force featured a pretty weird sex scene between Melissa McCarthy and Ozark star Jason Bateman.

In an interview with CinemaBlend’s Jeff McCobb, Melissa McCarthy shed some light on what it was like to film such an intimate, yet hilarious moment with Jason Bateman, who plays a half-man half-crab. When asked about this scene in question, she had this to say:

Despite how weird the whole situation is, it sounds like McCarthy and Bateman had a good time filming the scene. While it wasn’t as if she had prior experience with a crab-man to work off of, the duo still pulled it off, along with some hilarious Old Bay related jokes.

In Thunder Force, Melissa McCarthy’s character, Lydia Berman, unwittingly becomes a superhero. During her crime fighting escapes alongside Emily Stanton, played by Octavia Spencer, a romantic relationship blossoms between Jason Batman’s crustacean-like character, The Crab. Many, and I mean many, butter-based jokes ensue.

The movie is stuffed with jokes related to all things crab from the moment Bateman’s character is introduced. Some may think that a few of the comedic bits venture into weird territory (the guy literally has crab arms, claws and all), but I thought the duo kept it relatively lighthearted and hilarious given the circumstances.

Thunder Force marks the first reunion between Jason Bateman and Melissa McCarthy since working together on 2013’s Identity Thief. The pair also worked on 2016’s Central Intelligence, but McCarthy’s cameo was uncredited.

The Netflix comedy is the latest addition to the growing number of superhero movies. While some fans have been eagerly waiting for a major release from the MCU’s Phase 4, Thunder Force is a welcome return to the genre. Although the project is more focused on comedy rather than the high-flying action that fans are used to, it’s a fun spin on an old recipe.

Fans can check out the wacky-yet-oddly-hilarious Thunder Force on Netflix, where it’s currently available for streaming. If Bateman’s claws didn’t completely scratch the superhero itch for you, be sure to check out our 2021 Movie Release Schedule for the latest on everything heading to the big (and small) this year.

It seems like with each passing year, there’s more actors who have an opportunity to play their part in a superhero movie. Whether it’s in the ever-expanding MCU, or a one off hit, there’s plenty of super stories (and talented actors to star in them) to go around. Melissa McCarthy’s new Thunder Force is a perfect example, giving some major actors a chance to work in the growing genre. The upcoming Netflix comedy has a stacked cast of superhero first-timers, but the funniest person on set may surprise you.

During an interview with some of Thunder Force’s stars, CinemaBlend’s Jeff McCobb asked who the funniest person on set was. Surprisingly, the cast rallied around Pom Klementieff, who comedy veteran Bobby Cannavale was delighted to work with on set. In his own words:

According to Cannavale, who plays Thunder Force villain The King, Pom Klementieff’s comedy was not only surprising but also impressive. He went on to compliment the Old Boy star’s deadpan. Comedian (and upcoming Thor: Love and Thunder star) Melissa McCarthy also commended the actresses comedic chops:

That’s pretty high praise from someone with the comedic talents of Melissa McCarthy. The Thunder Force star complemented Klementieff’s performance as Laser, one of The King’s super-powered villains. Co-star Octavia Spencer went on to also mention Klementieff’s surprisingly impressive deadpan capabilities:

While breaking character and on-set laughs are just part of working with someone as hilarious as Melissa McCarthy, Spencer noted that it was Klementieff’s portrayal of Laser that really surprised her on set. The villainous role is a major departure from Klementieff’s work as Mantis in the MCU, according to the actress:

Despite the destructive nature of Laser, it sounds like there was still plenty of room for levity. Thunder Force follows former-best-friends-turned-superhero-duo Lydia Berman (Melissa McCarthy) and Emily Stanton (Octavia Spencer) as they fight The King (Bobby Cannavale) and Laser (Pom Klementieff) to protect the city of Chicago. Based on the trailer, it looks like a hilarious take on the mega-block buster superhero flicks of the last decade.

Fortunately, fans don’t have to wait to check out Pom Klementieff’s comedic capabilities, as Thunder Force is now streaming on Netflix. The light-hearted superhero flick is a welcome sight, seeing as how a number of major superhero releases have been delayed over the past year. Hopefully Thunder Force can scratch the itch for some fans and squeeze in a few laughs to boot.

Melissa McCarthy and her husband Ben Falcone have teamed up yet again for another movie. Thunder Force stars Melissa McCarthy and Octavia Spencer as two estranged best friends who reunite after one devises a serum that gives ordinary people superpowers. The film also stars Jason Bateman, Cobby Cannavale, Pom Klementieff, and Falcone (who also directed and wrote it).

Thunder Force has just released on Netflix, so get ready to enjoy a movie night on your couch after reading what critics are saying about the film.

CinemaBlend's very own Eric Eisenberg saw Thunder Force for the home team and was a bit disappointed, rating the film 2 out of 5 stars. He thinks that Melissa McCarthy and Octavia Spencer at least look like they’re having fun together, but that’s one of the only high points. Eisenberg criticized the boring and predictable plot that doesn’t even make sense at times, and argues that the movie isn’t funny at all. As he put it,

Katie Rife from AV Club also criticized the lack of actual comedy in what’s supposed to be a comedy, calling it “apathetic and airless, no matter how hard McCarthy tries.” She noted that there could be a funnier movie underneath the bad CGI and phony emotional conflict, but the dialogue doesn’t even try to reach it. Rife said:

Sheri Linden of The Hollywood Reporter criticized Falcone’s screenplay, commenting on the flimsy plot and characters like we’ve seen in other critics' reviews. She also criticized the supposed “menace” and villains of the film, noting that they seem more like background noise. Linden said:

Kate Erbland of IndieWire argues that Melissa McCarthy’s character actually had some texture to her, but that the rest of the film lacked any sense of creativity or pizzazz. She criticized Falcone (I’m sensing a pattern here) for not being willing to embrace his film’s goofiness, as his subplot is so boring that the audience will forget about it. Erbland continued, saying:

Maureen Lee Lenker of Entertainment Weekly had a bit more positive review of the comedy. She considers Jason Bateman as The Crab (yes, his arms are crab claws) the funniest bit of the movie, and thinks it’s an entertaining movie with plenty of funny moments. She said:

Well, critics seem to mostly be disappointed with Thunder Force, but what will viewers think? We’ll find out soon, as the spy comedy is available on Netflix now.

If you want even more of Melissa McCarthy, you might be seeing her in Thor: Love and Thunder when it releases, or you can check out her other upcoming projects.

Though superhero movies are obviously everywhere right now, the idea of having both an original one and one that’s a straight comedy seems like a smart idea on paper. As much genre diversity we’ve seen evolve out of comic book blockbuster franchises, there is a certain box that each project has to work within, and that means that a title like Ben Falcone’s Thunder Force has the potential to attempt wholly new things and be entertaining in a fresh kind of way. The problem, at least in this specific case? The film doesn’t even bother.

The latest Netflix original begins with an interesting concept, as a world is established that is plagued by sociopathic supervillains who got their powers from a cosmic ray that hit Earth, but unfortunately the movie is utterly unable to do anything with that premise – instead opting to introduce a pair of totally bland heroes who string along a plot that is not only boring and predictable, but at times doesn’t make any sense whatsoever.

Said heroes in Thunder Force are Lydia Berman (Melissa McCarthy) and Emily Stanton (Octavia Spencer) – two women who grew up as best friends when they were little before having a falling out while in high school. When Lydia reaches out to reconnect with her former pal, she is somehow shocked to discover that Emily has become a rich and powerful scientist who has dedicated her life to creating superheroes who can try and stop the menace of the so-called “miscreants.” Her work is nearly done when Lydia shows up, and some clumsiness and carelessness sees the former bestie accidentally take the first dose of super strength injections – leaving Emily just with invisibility.

After what feels like an endless extended sequence that sees Lydia and Emily go through month-long treatment and training to develop their abilities, they finally head out to the streets to kick some miscreant ass. As they do, they become embroiled in a plot involving not only supervillains – including Laser (Pom Klementieff) and The Crab (Jason Bateman) – but also the mayor of Chicago (Bobby Cannavale), who is in the midst of an extremely tight reelection campaign.

The script is not just overrun with tropes and laborious pacing, but also doesn’t make any sense at points.

Thunder Force is based on an original script by Ben Falcone, and while the film clearly didn’t have a massive budget that would allow it to fully explore its baseline supervillain idea, but what’s inexcusable is how scattershot the story is, and how many clichés are utilized (and poorly). It takes forever to actually get going, first layering on all of the exposition and then moving through the interminable training sequence, and then when it does finally go fishing for a plot it winds up reeling in a boot. Surprise, surprise, the aggressively charismatic mayor is a power-hungry asshole who has the miscreants doing his bidding, and it’s just so tired that it’s impossible to engage with. Even worse, the movie makes some absolutely confounding moves to try and keep it interesting – such as the mayor revealing his evil plot to the heroes after breaking into Emily’s lab … and then for some reason Lydia and Emily just decide to not tell anybody about it.

It can be recognized that the film does have some moments of originality, however, more often than not they left me confused. There’s a whole fantastical dance sequence with Lydia and The Crab when the former is trying to stop the latter during a convenience store robbery, and I legitimately had no idea what’s going on – and really just was left assuming that The Crab had some kind of pheromone superpower to go with his crab leg arms. It wasn’t until later in the film when the hero and villain randomly go on a date that I finally figured out that it was just a really terribly executed love-at-first-sight moment (and yes, it turns out the extent of The Crab’s powers is just having crab leg arms).

Plain and simple, Thunder Force isn’t funny.

If Jason Bateman sporting a pair of fake crab legs for arms is the kind of thing that sends you into a tizzy, Thunder Force may weirdly be a perfect film for you – but I’m assuming that most people wouldn’t find that funny, and they’re definitely not going to like what the rest of the movie has to offer. It sporadically has scenes where it feels like the filmmakers simply forgot to put in a joke, and what passes for the feature’s sense of funny is almost exclusively eye roll-inducing – like the heroes having difficulty exiting their car, or Lydia complaining about how much her suit smells. And when in doubt, it goes for the gross out humor, as it apparently thinks that Melissa McCarthy eating raw chicken is just hysterical, because that’s turns into an increasingly lame running bit.

You feel bad for Octavia Spencer and Melissa McCarthy, because they should both be making much better movies.

For what it’s worth, Octavia Spencer and Melissa McCarthy do seem like they are having a good time together, and they make for a good pair, but the material that they are working with just makes the whole affair seem depressing. One is an Oscar winner, and the other is twice-nominated, and it’s a bummer seeing them playing characters with extremely little depth (it very much boils down to a simple Type A/Type B relationship), and nothing exciting in the material. It’s nice to see them get the opportunity to put on some super suits, and they get to do some cool fight scenes and wire work, but their best skills aren’t utilized, and it doesn’t challenge them in the slightest.

Netflix does make a proper home for Thunder Force, as it will fit in well right alongside all of the collection of bad Adam Sandler movies. Fortunately, what’s great about the streaming service is that you can scroll right on past it, looking out for a far more enjoyable film to watch. It’s built on a strong foundation of premise and stars, but totally squanders it.

This month marks the 10-year anniversary of Bridesmaids, so why don’t we reminisce for a moment? Kristen Wiig’s Oscar-nominated comedy is still just as hilarious as it was when it was released thanks to its ensemble cast of a wedding party, including Maya Rudolph, Melissa McCarthy, Ellie Kemper, Wendi McLendon-Covey and Rose Byrne. And how can we forget one memorable secret weapon the movie had: Rebel Wilson, who nearly played a very different role.

The Aussie actress nabbed the role a year before her major breakout in 2012’s Pitch Perfect as “Fat Amy.” She played one of two odd roommates to Kristen Wiig’s Annie. But recently she divulged the role she nearly ended up playing. In her words:

Rebel Wilson shared the roommate role with Matt Lucas, as they played Kristen Wiig’s annoying sibling roommates, who were a bit too close for comfort. Wilson adds a lot of hilarious moments in the movie, but she originally had her eye on one of the bridesmaids. She auditioned to play Melissa McCarthy’s puppy loving Megan. She would have been great for that role too but, obviously, McCarthy absolutely killed it. Thankfully, she was still able to get a part in Bridesmaids, though. She continued with SiriusXM:

According to the 41-year-old actress, a lot of what she ended up doing on set was some fun improvisation, because of course! Half of the cast of Bridesmaids were Saturday Night Live cast members, so it’s not super surprising. When it came to Rebel Wilson though, her role was not initially in the script, so it was a lot more off the cuff. Y’all remember that scene where she gets the back tattoo and pours frozen peas on her back? Classic.

Her small role in the movie led to some more work for the actress, such as two more Pitch Perfect films, rom-coms including How To Be Single and Isn’t it Romantic. Rebel Wilson is currently hosting a dog grooming competition show called Pooch Perfect and recently committed to a 60 pound weight-loss transformation in 2020.

Kristen Wiig and her Bridesmaids writing partner Annie Mumolo collaborated for a hilarious comedy Barb and Star Go To Vista Del Mar, which came out earlier this year. The writing duo or director Paul Feig aren’t exactly keen on a sequel, considering they made something so well-loved the first time. You can stream Bridesmaids on PeacockTV.

Another month’s worth of entertainment and social media discussion is on its way, thanks to Netflix unveiling the lineup for April 2021. In what’s supposed to be a banner year for the streaming platform, there’s always the potential for the next Bridgerton-level hit to make its way to the masses. In the wake of March 2021’s cache of titles, the anticipation for this next month is running at a high. If you want to take a moment and see what came online last month, as well as the highlights of the film titles that joined the library, you can catch up with those titles before heading in. Otherwise, let’s take a look at what the showers of April 2021 are bringing to the garden known as the Netflix streaming queue.

Week of April 1

Magical Andes: Season 2 - NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY - 4/1/21

Prank Encounters: Season 2 - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 4/1/21

Tersanjung the Movie - NETFLIX FILM - 4/1/21

Worn Stories - NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY - 4/1/21

2012 - 4/1/21

Cop Out - 4/1/21

Friends with Benefits - 4/1/21

Insidious - 4/1/21

Legally Blonde - 4/1/21

Leprechaun - 4/1/21

The Pianist - 4/1/21

The Possession - 4/1/21

Secrets of Great British Castles: Season 1 - 4/1/21

The Time Traveler's Wife - 4/1/21

Tyler Perry's Madea's Big Happy Family - 4/1/21

White Boy - 4/1/21

Yes Man - 4/1/21

Concrete Cowboy - NETFLIX FILM - 4/2/21

Just Say Yes - NETFLIX FILM - 4/2/21

Madame Claude - NETFLIX FILM - 4/2/21

The Serpent - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 4/2/21

Sky High - NETFLIX FILM - 4/2/21

Escape from Planet Earth - 4/3/21

Week of April 4

What Lies Below - 4/4/21

Coded Bias - 4/5/21

Family Reunion: Part 3 - NETFLIX FAMILY - 4/5/21

The Last Kids on Earth: Happy Apocalypse to You - NETFLIX FAMILY - 4/6/21

The Big Day: Collection 2 - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 4/7/21

Dolly Parton: A MusiCares Tribute - NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY - 4/7/21

Snabba Cash - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 4/7/21

This Is A Robbery: The World's Biggest Art Heist - NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY - 4/7/21

The Wedding Coach - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 4/7/21

The Way of the Househusband - NETFLIX ANIME - 4/8/21

Have You Ever Seen Fireflies? - NETFLIX FILM - 4/9/21

Night in Paradise - NETFLIX FILM - 4/9/21

Thunder Force - NETFLIX FILM - 4/9/21

The Stand-In - 4/10/21

Week of April 11

Diana: The Interview that Shook the World - 4/11/21

New Gods: Nezha Reborn - NETFLIX FILM - 4/12/21

Nicky, Ricky, Dicky & Dawn: Seasons 1-4 - 4/12/21

The Baker and the Beauty: Season 1 - 4/13/21

Mighty Express: Season 3 - NETFLIX FAMILY - 4/13/21

My Love: Six Stories of True Love - NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY - 4/13/21

The Circle: Season 2 - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 4/14/21

Dad Stop Embarrassing Me! - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 4/14/21

Law School - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 4/14/21

The Soul - NETFLIX FILM - 4/14/21

Why Did You Kill Me? - NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY - 4/14/21

Dark City Beneath the Beat - 4/15/21

The Master - 4/15/21

Ride or Die - NETFLIX FILM - 4/15/21

Arlo the Alligator Boy - NETFLIX FAMILY - 4/16/21

Ajeeb Daastaans - NETFLIX FILM - 4/16/21

Crimson Peak - 4/16/21

Fast & Furious Spy Racers: Season 4: Mexico - NETFLIX FAMILY - 4/16/21

Into the Beat - NETFLIX FILM - 4/16/21

Rush - 4/16/21

Synchronic - 4/16/21

Why Are You Like This - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 4/16/21

The Zookeeper's Wife - 4/16/21

Week of April 18

Luis Miguel - The Series: Season 2 - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 4/18/21

Miss Sloane - 4/19/21

PJ Masks: Season 3 - 4/19/21

Izzy's Koala World: Season 2 - NETFLIX FAMILY - 4/20/21

Zero - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 4/21/21

Life in Color with David Attenborough - NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY - 4/22/21

Stowaway - NETFLIX FILM - 4/22/21

Heroes: Silence and Rock & Roll - 4/23/21

Shadow and Bone - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 4/23/21

Tell Me When - NETFLIX FILM - 4/23/21

Week of April 25

August: Osage County - 4/27/21

Battle of Los Angeles - 4/27/21

Fatma - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 4/27/21

Go! Go! Cory Carson: Season 4 - NETFLIX FAMILY - 4/27/21

Sexify - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 4/28/21

Headspace Guide to Sleep - NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY - 4/28/21

Things Heard & Seen - NETFLIX FILM - 4/29/21

Yasuke - NETFLIX ANIME - 4/29/21

The Innocent - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 4/30/21

The Mitchells vs. The Machines - NETFLIX FAMILY - 4/30/21

Pet Stars - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 4/30/21

The Unremarkable Juanquini: Season 2 - NETFLIX ORIGINAL - 4/30/21

April TBD

The Disciple - NETFLIX FILM

Searching For Sheela - NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY

Netflix’s Movie Highlights For April 2021

As if to anticipate her role in the upcoming Thor: Love and Thunder, Netflix gave Melissa McCarthy superpowers. Which is perfect, because Octavia Spencer looks like she’s having fun with her newly metahuman friend in the heroic comedy Thunder Force. Though you may want to watch that before the machines take over, as the Netflix original/Chris Miller and Phil Lord produced The Mitchells vs. The Machines has been given a prime release date at the end of the month.

While this is a family-friendly robot apocalypse, it still looks pretty dangerous; therefore, you may want to unplug your smart devices before you sit down to watch that colorful blockbuster. Finally, if peril in space is something you’re into, then Stowaway fits that bill. Streaming dominator Anna Kendrick has to puzzle out survival in the deep dark void, alongside cast members Shamier Anderson, Toni Colette, and Daniel Dae Kim.

Netflix’s TV Highlights For April 2021

After a first season that saw some backlash visited upon its premiere, Stranger Things star Gaten Materazzo’s Prank Encounters is returning for its second season on Netflix. Who knows what pranks will pop up in this brand new outing? Regardless, if you’re looking for some hidden camera shenanigans, you don’t have to wait much longer. Though should your tastes run a little more dramatic and war torn, then the long-awaited adaptation of Shadow and Bone should do the trick.

Based in the universe of Leigh Bardugo’s Grishaverse Novels, this YA fantasy will see warfare and magic collide, with a bit of flesh eating creatures on the side.

Netflix has it all for subscribers in the month of April! But you’re still going to want to pay close attention to the list of incoming titles throughout the month, as everything is subject to change and availability. As always, contents may shift during the passage of time. So stream safely and smartly, and we’ll see you back here around this time next month, with May 2021’s titles on display for everyone’s excitement.

Recently, it was seemingly indirectly confirmed that Melissa McCarthy will join the Marvel Cinematic Universe with a role in Thor: Love and Thunder opposite her Ghostbusters co-star Chris Hemsworth. However, Taika Waititi’s highly anticipated fourth installment of the Asgardian Avenger’s solo franchise will not be her first superhero movie. In fact, the upcoming film Thunder Force will see the actress and her co-star, Octavia Spencer, making their debuts as costumed crimefighters together.

It actually seems like it was only a matter of time before the Bridesmaids star would land a superhero flick, having already played cops, criminals, a spy, a Ghostbuster, and even a White House press secretary on Saturday Night Live. Not to mention, it is even more surprising to learn how long it took Octavia Spencer to board that train after two YA novel movie franchises, a handful of horror flicks, and winning an Oscar in 2012. Yet, this upcoming action comedy, which will be available to stream exclusively on Netflix, seems like the perfect comic book-esque vehicle for both.

On that note, who else is appearing in this flick, who is the artist behind its creation, and what exactly is the plot? We will answer each of those questions and more in this fast, convenient guide of the most essential things to know about Thunder Force, starting with the most important fact, which anyone looking forward to this movie should know.

Thunder Force Premieres On Netflix In April 2021

Netflix has been dipping its feet into the enduring superhero genre trend for a while now. It started with the short-lived, but much loved, shared universe of gritty Marvel TV shows, a hit series adaptation of Image’s The Umbrella Academy, and recent films like We Can Be Heroes - Robert Rodriguez’s official sequel to his 3-D family film, The Adventure of Sharkboy and Lavagirl, from 2005.

Thunder Force will be the latest addition to the Netflix’s slate of comic book adjacent content when it exclusively premieres on the streaming platform on Friday, April 9, 2021. Speaking of Netflix’s own superhero content, the movie actually has a few things in common with its original summer release Project Power, but with a humorous twist.

Thunder Force Follows Two Middle-Aged Women Who Become Superheroes

As revealed its its first official trailer, which came out on Wednesday, March 3, 2021, Thunder Force stars Melissa McCarthy as an average, middle-aged woman named Lydia. She pays a visit to her childhood friend, Emily (Octavia Spencer), who reveals she has been developing a serum that can give ordinary people extraordinary abilities.

After accidentally injecting herself with the treatment, Lydia gains superhuman strength, inspiring Emily to give herself the power of invisibility and team-up to form the titular duo. Together, they become a force for good against the (literally) powerful criminals that have been terrorizing the world, running into a few comical mishaps along the way.

Melissa McCarthy And Octavia Spencer Were Friends Before Co-Starring In Thunder Force

Their Thunder Force characters rekindle their friendship after years apart by becoming superheroes. However, in reality, Melissa McCarthy and Octavia Spencer have been close for more than two decades.

In a March interview for People, the actresses (both 50) dish on how they first met in line for The Price is Right when Bob Barker was still hosting and how much fun they had collaborating on a fun, action-packed project such as the Netflix film. However, the friendly leading ladies technically had their first co-starring experience in 2020 with the HBO Max sci-fi comedy Superintelligence, with Spencer voicing herself and McCarthy sharing a romance with Bobby Cannavale, who would soon play her enemy.

Thunder Force’s Cast Includes Oscar Darlings, Comedians, And Marvel Movie Actors

In addition to Academy Award nominee Melissa McCarthy (for Bridesmaids) and Academy Award winner Octavia Spencer (for The Help) as the leads, the cast of Thunder Force incorporates a number of versatile and familiar talents. Since the film is a comedy, we can be thankful to see Netflix regular Jason Bateman as a man with crab-like attributes and, also being a superhero flick, it is cool to see Ant-Man’s Bobby Cannavale and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2’s Pom Klementieff abandon their more heroic MCU reputations to play villains this time.

Fellow Oscar winner Melissa Leo is no stranger to comedy or Netflix (having killed both birds with a Bojack Horseman guest spot), but is making her superhero movie debut with Thunder Force. Also appearing in supporting roles are Chicago Fire star Melissa Ponzio, Sarah Baker (best known as Zach Galifianakis’ wife in The Campaign), and 23-year-old Tyrel Jackson Williams, who earned his superhero actor certification on the Disney XD show Lab Rats.

Thunder Force Is Written And Directed By Ben Falcone

Clearly, working on Thunder Force has been a wonderfully friendly affair between Melissa McCarthy and Octavia Spencer. However, it is also a family affair for McCarthy and her husband - writer and director Ben Falcone.

While this is certainly the first superhero movie the couple has worked on together, the Netflix original marks the fifth time the 47-year-old actor and comedian has directed his wife in a feature film. Their first collaboration as such was in Falcone’s 2014 directorial debut Tammy, followed by The Boss two years later, the collegiate comedy Life of the Party in 2018, and the aforementioned Superintelligence, most recently. Audiences may recognize Falcone best from Bridesmaids as the man McCarthy mistakes for an Air Marshall.

I have always found it amusing when married couples get to jump in on a Hollywood trend like the superhero genre together. For instance, Vision (and former JARVIS) actor Paul Bettany’s wife, Jennifer Connelly, is the voice of “Karen,” the AI in Peter Parker’s Spider-Man suit, and Ryan Reynolds’ romance with Blake Lively began on the set of the Green Lantern - which many might agree is the most positive thing to come out of that film. Here's hoping that audiences have as much fun watching Thunder Force as we can imagine Melissa McCarthy and Ben Falcone had making it together once it debuts on Netflix.

Melissa McCarthy really wants some superhero action, and who can blame her? Getting superpowers, fighting crime, and looking cool in a well designed suit of armor is something a lot of actors look forward to these days; and McCarthy is already on track for pieces of that with her recent casting in Thor: Love and Thunder. But in Netflix’s original film Thunder Force, Melissa McCarthy and Octavia Spencer get to be the real deal, powers and all.

As with any good superhero origin story, Thunder Force starts out with the most classic way to get your powers: sheer unplanned luck. One fateful reunion between childhood friends Emily (Octavia Spencer) and Lydia (Melissa McCarthy) sees a brand new DNA therapy devised by the former giving superpowers to the latter. Cue the comedic mishaps, and some well-selected needle drops from superhero movies of the past, to make for what looks like a fun filled ride.

The ride known as Thunder Force has those big meta-human flexes you’re probably used to from films like Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice or Avengers: Endgame. Buses get thrown, would-be robbers are foiled, and sure enough MCU vet Bobby Cannavale shows up in a three piece suit with glowing eyes and ambitions unknown to the audience at this early phase. But in-between the usual theatrics and gravitas of such abilities is a very tongue-in-cheek sense of humor. You only need to see Thunder Force co-writer/director Ben Falcone taking a taser to the neck, right in front of his wife and co-star’s super-powered alter ego to know that.

Which leads us to something interesting involving Thunder Force’s roster of talent, as this project is a bit of a reunion from the last Falcone/McCarthy production, HBO Max’s Superintelligence. Obviously Ben Falcone and Melissa McCarthy are both present, making their Marvel wishes come true before their big Thor: Love and Thunder gig. But also, McCarthy’s previous onscreen love interest Bobby Cannavale, shows up as well. Only this time, he looks like he’s more about killing than kissing. And if you’re looking for more Marvel firepower, then look no further than Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2’s Pom Klementieff as another super powered adversary on the books.

This is really shaping up to be quite the reunion, especially for something not part of a cinematic universe of any sort. As it’s not based on anything that currently exists in comic book form, Thunder Force certainly feels like it operates in a universe that’s familiar. With the talent it’s enlisted to tell the story of superpowers hilariously saving the day, and the references to Batman Forever and Iron Man 2’s soundtracks, parody and heroism mix together to form a team that looks to be unstoppable. We’ll see if that’s the truth when Thunder Force strikes first, and strikes hard, on April 9th, only on Netflix.

As of late, it seems that the production of Thor: Love and Thunder has been rather slippery when it comes to the subject of surprise celebrity cameos. Recently, Matt Damon’s supposed reprisal of his role from Thor: Ragnarok has been a subject of intense scrutiny and speculation, and now a new cameo for director Taika Waititi’s next MCU entry may have been revealed. Looks like Melissa McCarthy may have gotten that Thor: Love and Thunder role she’s been lobbying for after all.

That news is less mysterious than you’d think, thanks to photos obtained by The Daily Mail, which hints at an interesting concept that might also be returning in Thor: Love and Thunder. Spotted playing “Fake Hela” on the set, Melissa McCarthy’s appearance seems to hint that Asgardian theater is alive and well in Taika Waititi’s second Thor movie. Putting together Matt Damon’s now confirmed return, along with Sam Neill’s reteaming with Waititi, the puzzle seems to be falling into place that we’ll see another dramatization of Marvel cinematic history.

Expanding on that point, it wouldn’t be all that surprising if Thor: Love and Thunder might be using Melissa McCarthy, and potentially Ben Falcone, as players in a prologue sequence that’ll recount Thor’s adventures from Thor: Ragnarok straight through to Avengers: Endgame. So rather than using this bit merely to repeat the joke from the previous film, this stage play would serve as a usefully hilarious recap for audiences heading into Thor: Love and Thunder. Though another possibility comes to mind, considering some of Thor’s new friends that are supposed to be part of the action as well.

As the Guardians of the Galaxy team is also part of Thor: Love and Thunder, their apparently short appearance in the fourth Thor film might be part of why this gag has come to pass yet again. What better way to catch the Guardians up on Thor’s past history than with a newly expanded and corrected version of “The Tragedy of Loki of Asgard?” Should this scenario be true, we can only hope that Melissa McCarthy’s Asgardian actor gets to mix it up with Rocket Raccoon; because how could you not?

While the secret’s out when it comes to this particular scene of Thor: Love and Thunder, there’s still plenty of secrets and questions that are in the air after learning the news. Is Asgardian theater the only pastime that convinces Loki to stay on his home planet? Could this, instead, be a way for Natalie Portman’s Jane Foster to catch up with Thor franchise history? What’s the Asgardian equivalent of musical theater, and how does it compare to Cats? Thor: Love and Thunder will reveal all on May 22, 2022; but of course, there will be plenty of breadcrumbs dropping between then and now to tease the audience about that ultimate truth.

Melissa McCarthy first started to win the heart of millions on Gilmore Girls as the lovable chef Sookie. McCarthy has long passed the days of Stars Hollow. She’s now one of Hollywood’s most bankable actresses. Melissa McCarthy has appeared in movies like Bridesmaids, Spy, and The Heat. She’ll be gaining even more fans when she takes on the role of Ursula in the live-action version of The Little Mermaid.

The Little Mermaid isn’t the only upcoming project Melissa McCarthy has coming out in the next couple of years. She has a few high profile TV shows and films coming soon, including one where she co-stars with Nicole Kidman. Here are some upcoming Melissa McCarthy projects.

Cocktails And Tall Tales With Ina Garten And Melissa McCarthy - March 26, 2021 (Completed)

Cocktails and Tall Tales with Ina Garten and Melissa McCarthy is a Discovery+ original special. Famed chef, the Barefoot Contessa Ina Garten has a one-on-one conversation via video chat, with McCarthy for this special. Both women’s husbands are also supposed to join in on the conversation, making it more of a fun double date. Food Network is creating this special, and it was already filmed in East Hampton, New York, and Sydney Australia (where Melissa has been for a few months).

Cocktail and Tall Tales with Ina Garten and Melissa McCarthy involves the women mixing up new cocktail concoctions, getting to know each other, plenty of jokes, and possibly some other food recipes being shared. It’ll be a one-episode special that you can stream exclusively on Discovery+ on March 26th.

Thunder Force - Spring 2021 (Completed)

Thunder Force is an action-comedy co-starring Melissa McCarthy and Octavia Spencer. McCarthy’s husband Ben Falcone wrote and directed this film. It’s a Netflix original movie that’s about two estranged best friends who develop powers that help them protect their city. Thunder Force’s cast includes Jason Bateman, Bobby Cannavale, Pom Klementieff, and Melissa Leo.

What’s On Netflix gave a more detailed synopsis of Thunder Force. Basically, in the world of Thunder Force, super-villains terrorize the city until scientist Emily Stanton (Octavia Spencer) develops a way to give her and estranged best friend Lydia (Melissa McCarthy) powers. They team up and become the first superhero team. Netflix hasn’t released an official streaming date, but it appeared on Netflix’s look ahead for 2021 video, so it’s definitely coming out in 2021, likely in the spring.

The Starling - 2021 (Post-Production)

The Starling is another Netflix original movie coming in 2021. It was acquired by Netflix after a $20-million deal. According to Deadline, it was purchased after releasing a four-minute promo reel. Ted Melfi directs The Starling. It stars McCarthy, Kevin Kline, Chris O’Dowd, Timothy Olyphant, and Daveed Diggs. O’Dowd and McCarthy play a married couple Lily and Jack who try to rebuild their relationship after suffering a tragedy.

Jack sets off to deal with his grief, while Lily stays home. Jack creates a garden for Lily that brings her much anguish as she becomes obsessed with killing a starling that has nested there. Netflix mentioned it on its 2021 movie list. It’s expected to be released in 2021, and Deadline predicts probably around award season. Since award season is a little different from previous years, it probably won’t be aiming for this year’s Oscars, but maybe next year, so a fall 2021 release would be a good guess.

Nine Perfect Strangers - 2021 (Post-Production)

Nine Perfect Strangers is a miniseries coming to Hulu. It’s based on the novel of the same name by Liane Moriarty, who also wrote the Big Little Lies novel. David E. Kelley is the show creator and it will be directed by Jonathan Levine. Nine Perfect Strangers has an all-star cast that includes Nicole Kidman, McCarthy, Luke Evans, Samara Weaving, Michael Shannon, Manny Jacinto, Regina Hall, and Bobby Cannavale.

The Nine Perfect Strangers book follows nine strangers as they all end up at a health and wellness retreat, run by a charming guru. These nine people are very different but all have reasons for going to the retreat. They are supposed to have 10 days of relaxing, mindfulness pampering, meditation, and more. Of course, things don’t go as expected. We don’t know how closely the Nine Perfect Strangers miniseries will follow the boos, but it will likely keep the basic premise. Hulu hasn’t announced a release date, but it’s expected to be released in 2021. If I had to guess, based on the nature of the content, I would say it’s probably a summer 2021 series.

The Little Mermaid - Unknown (Filming)

The live-action Little Mermaid is one of the most anticipated reboots. In January 2021, Javier Bardem, who plays King Triton, confirmed that filming for The Little Mermaid had begun. The film was supposed to begin filming in 2020, but due to COVID-19, it was delayed. Since filming on The Little Mermaid is still at the early stages, it is very unlikely that it will be released in 2021, especially since Disney has announced many of its major movies coming out in 2021.

The Little Mermaid follows the story of teen mermaid Ariel (Halle Bailey) as she risks everything to be with Prince Eric (Jonah Hauer-King). She saves Eric from drowning and then makes a deal with the sea witch Ursula (Melissa McCarthy). Ursula gets Ariel’s voice in exchange for Ursula giving her legs to walk on land. The Little Mermaid live-action cast also includes Javier Barden, and voice-overs by Daveed Diggs, Jacob Tremblay, and Awkwafina. The Little Mermaid will possibly be released in 2022 or 2023.

God’s Favorite Idiot - Unknown (Announced)

In December 2020, it was announced that Netflix and Melissa McCarthy were teaming up again. The streaming service ordered a comedy series called God’s Favorite Idiot. It’s being produced by McCarthy and husband Ben Falcone. The series will star both of them, and they will also direct and executive produce. Falcone plays a tech support employee, Clark Thompson, who finds love with his co-worker Amily Luck (McCarthy). This love story happens at a weird point for Clark because he just became God’s messenger.

The show promises an impending apocalypse, so sign me up. God’s Favorite Idiot will have 16 episodes in Season 1. God’s Favorite Idiot hasn’t begun production yet, and likely won’t start until after The Little Mermaid concludes filming. Therefore, this series will likely premiere anywhere between late 2021 and 2022.

Melissa McCarthy fans can watch her most recent movie, Superintelligence, on HBO Max as they wait for the release of The Little Mermaid, Nine Perfect Strangers, The Starling, and her other upcoming projects. Stream Superintelligence on HBO Max here.