17 Behind-the-Scenes Peeks at the VMAs

On this same night, many moonmans ago, Kanye stole the mic from a startled Taylor Swift. He didn’t even let her finish. And later, Miley danced with bears and a referee who looked like Robin Thicke. This year, who’s to say what will happen at the MTV Video Music Awards? Oh, you East Coasters already spoiler alerted the show for us here in PST. Thanks for the heads up that Beyoncé rules — we had no idea (jkkkk). While we were waiting patiently for our live streams to load, we were chillin’ with the stars backstage on Instagram, snacking and getting our hair and nails done. Take a look at how the stars prepped for the show below!

1. Lorde: The purple lip, you guys! Lorde is looking gothic fierce as usual in a corset number. Is that velvet? You’re a braver woman than us, Lorde. (via @lordemusic)

2. Jennifer Lopez: Has JLo aged a day since “Jenny From the Block?” We’re pretty sure she hasn’t. Alongside Liz Hernandez of Access Hollywood, she’s posing with the best of them in a glittery silver number highlighting her curves like only JLo can. (via @lizhernandez)

3. Beyoncé: The Queen herself greets her fans on the red carpet with open arms and a stunning gown. Only Bey can rock head-to-toe gothic, clingy, lacy black number in the LA summer and look absolutely flawless. (via @marisaiam)

4. Kelly Rowland: It looks like shimmer is the way to go. Kelly Rowland glows with baby in tow. (via @j_barnesmua)

5. Nina Dobrev: Nina Dobrev and her makeup artist for the evening Beau Nelson bring out the best pouts for a pre-show selfie. Those red lips are absolutely killer. (via @beau_nelson)

6. Uzo Aduba: The ladies of Orange Is the New Black do not miss a beat. Looking stylish and sassy as usual, Taylor Schilling, Uzo Aduba and Laverne Cox are repping the ladies of Litchfield at the VMAs a night before they’re celebrated at the Emmys. (via @uzoaduba)

7. Jessica Williams: Daily Show correspondent Jessica Williams stuns with an ultra-dramatic smokey eye on her way to the VMAs. What’s cooler is she took an Uber! Rideshares for the win. (via @msjwilly)

8. Kesha: Formerly Ke$ha, she dropped the “$” but not her knack for scandal. Her rainbow colored locks are kind of amazing, right? (via @iiswhoiis)

9. Lucy Hale: That is one seriously perfect pony. Actress/singer Lucy Hale was killing it on the red carpet this year and her hair choice was a perfect compliment to her ensemble. (via lucyhale)

10. MTV: This adorable pup Toast didn’t actually win a moonman, but we think he should go up against Miley for longest tongue. That’s moonman worthy, right? (via @MTV)

11. Jessi J, Nicki Minaj, Ariana Grande: These ladies sure know how to bring the BANG BANG. This practice performance pose had us waiting on pins and needles for their performances at the VMAs tonight. (via Perez Hilton)

12. Solange Knowles: Leave it Solange to rock red carpet in H&M like it belongs there. This shimmery sartorial look gives Solange the statement of class she deserves. (via saintrecords)

13. Becky Gomez: Smoochin’ it up with Ingrid Nilsen at preshow rehearsal, Becky is really killing it with that floral jersey! Where can we get one? (via @iambeckyg)

14. Sam Smith: We had a dream once that Sam Smith and Beyoncé met and became best friends and performed a show together. This is the first step, right? We have our fingers crossed. (via samsmithsworld)

15. Katie Stevens: We’re pretty sure that if we were going to the VMAs, we would pre-game with In N Out too. Gotta love a lady who loves a good burger. (via @thekatiestevens)

16. Katy Perry: When we saw this photo, we weren’t exactly sure what Katy had in mind for her always-anticipated show-stopper look. We never would have predicted a ’90s denim Brittany throwback. Way to go, girl. (via @katyperry)

17. Iggy Azalea and Rita Ora: These ladies have been performing “Black Widow” on tour together for a while and they’re bringing the A-Game right on to the VMAs. (via @ritaora)

18. Lady Gaga: Okay, okay. Gaga is not at the VMAs this year, but we miss her! She snapped this pic today looking like pure royalty and we couldn’t help but add her as a tribute. (via @ladygaga)

Were you tuning in? Let us know your fav VMA moments in the comments!

ICYMI, there's major drama surrounding Kyle Richards of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills and hubby Mauricio Umansky (affectionately referred to as “Mo”), and the tea is still piping hot.

The pair, who met in 1994 and married two years later, have reportedly “separated” for the first time (that we know of) surrounding rumors of infidelity on both sides. Here's everything we know about Kyle Richards and Mauricio Umansky's relationship as it stands.

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Morgan Wade - Fall In Love With Me (Official Music Video)

While we've heard plenty about Mo's alleged affairs in the past, what's new this time is an alleged ongoing relationship between Kyle and countrymusic singer Morgan Wade. Although Kyle adamantly denies any romantic relationship with Morgan, fans can’t help but speculate that may not be the case — especially after they were quite cozy in Morgan's latest music video.

That's right. After fans noticed that Kyle and Morgan had matching heart tattoos and matching silver rings, it was only a matter of time until Kyle and Morgan are took their highly-publicized (and highly-questioned) relationship to the next level: on set. In a music video for Morgan's song, "Fall In Love With Me," Kyle plays Morgan's love interest, and there isn't much space between them, that's for sure. Hmmm...Considering Kyle's commitment to not kissing anyone other than her husband, she certainly comes pretty close to kissing Morgan. Of course, this video has only added fuel to the rumor fire, but nevertheless it still has an important message.

Richards co-posted a social media message along with Wade promoting the new music video. “The official video for “Fall In Love With Me” is out now. It’s campy and fun — but also important and representative of all kinds of love, even in the country space, in any space.”

Their video came a few weeks after country star Tyler Childers released his music video for “In Your Love,” which also featured a gay love story. Both of these followed Jason Aldean's "Try That In A Small Town," which has been criticized as a "modern lynching song."

Wade signed off her message with “@kylerichards18 and I trusted the process of making a piece of art that stands boldly beside this music and I’m proud of that. Thanks for the support and love. Love is love is love.”

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Apparently, Morgan purposefully cast Kyle in the music video to be provocative. “I’ve done several music videos. And every time there’s someone in it with me, [people] always assume we’re dating, or something’s going on,” she shared in the teaser clip.

She continued, “If you get on the internet, you see people who are obsessed with us being friends.” The music video was an attempt to “troll the trolls…The internet’s going to be poppin’ off about this one, I’m sure,” she added.

And to Morgan and Kyle’s credit, they were right. Commenters on Kyle’s post were immediately suspicious. “[Kyle’s] vibe seems kind of awkward,” one user wrote. “Like she’s got that ‘I’m crushing and can’t really be myself thing’ going on.” Other users defended the two, with one on Morgan’s post writing, “have these people never had friends they actually like before?”

At the time of filming, Mo didn't seemed bothered at all. On Buying Beverly Hills, we saw Kyle tell mo she was filming the music video with Morgan, to which he responded, “Of course.” Nothing seemed sus to him based on that simple reaction. When others asked him, he said flat out that he didn't think anything was going on between the two of them. It wasn't until later on in the season that Mo said he's not sure about the situation, that he'd never asked straight up, and that he does think Kyle and Morgan have “some sort of a connection together."

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Mauricio Umansky’s Latin Night Salsa – Dancing with the Stars

And though friends and fans are shocked by the Morgan Wade of it all, Mauricio has his own rumors to dodge. After a stint on ABC's Dancing With The Stars, Mauricio was spotted out and about, holding hands with his dance partner, Emma Slater. The two went on Instagram stories to say they're not dating in October, but the speculation continues.

A source told Life & Style exclusively that Kyle Richards is "still stewing" over the situation with Emma and Mauricio. The source continued by saying that "they both want to move on."

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All of this comes after a joint Instagram statement by Kyle and Mauricio regarding their marriage — a statement that has only added to the rumors.

Still, between their daughters' tagging hiatus for their mom on social media (despite tagging everyone else at the time), Morgan increasingly appearing on Kyle’s IG while Mauricio fades away, Mauricio and Kyle both forgoing their rings on occasion, Morgan and Kyle's matching heart rings (Which is very reminiscent of Tom Sandoval’s and Raquel Leviss’s matching necklaces, mind you.) and constant traveling together – the rumor of their relationship isn’t completely unfounded.

Apparently, the Richards-Umansky daughters are “holding up” well amid the separation rumors, according to a statement from Kyle. “You know they’re really strong...they know that we all love each other and they’re old enough to understand that not everything is perfect all of the time and that’s okay and no matter what they’re loved,” she added. The family even posed for a family photo recently during an outing at The Grove in L.A. Regardless of the specifics, we definitely hope this family finds their own ways back to each other at the end of the day.

Still, Kyle told Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hagar on TODAY that her daughters didn't even know about the separation before filming started for RHOBH. This timeline appears true, as it seems audiences watched the girls find out in real time on the latest season of Buying Beverly Hills. Throughout the season, we watched as the only daughter who seemed to be remotely in-the-know was Farrah, and even she seemed to think there were just surface level problems. The show later depicted the Umansky family in Aspen together, discussing the bombshell news over family dinner after the People exclusive unexpectedly dropped. After that, we watched as the relationship frayed more and more, with the couple seeing each other less over time. Mauricio eventually explained to their daughters that Kyle gave them rules to see whoever they want — just to not talk about it with one another.

Kyle elaborated on the current state of the relationship saying on TODAY , "We do love each other very much and have a lot of respect for each other." While the family still lives together — and apparently even dines together at times — Kyle's uncertain about what's next. She said, “I really don’t know what my future holds right now, to be honest.”

Now, the pair has announced that they're taking a break from couples' therapy — something they still actively pursued post-separation. It doesn't seem clear exactly what that means, but Kyle did just say that she has men and women reaching out to her romantically in her DMs right now. Plus, Mo recently reunited with his own suspected love interest, Emma Slater, where the two seemed pretty happy together.

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Dorit Kemsley and Kyle Richards Discuss Their Marriages | BravoCon LIVE

When it comes to Kyle's friends, it's clear that some people are more supportive than others. Throughout The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills season 13, Kyle's noted her strained relationship to the group, saying that she's "struggling." While Sutton Stracke called Kyle out at dinner about what's going on in her personal life, Erika Jayne stood by her at the end of the night to console her.

Dorit Kemsley's typically been Kyle's go-to girl, being there for each other through thick and thin — especially after they both suffered from recent robberies over the years. However, Dorit told Andy Cohen on Watch What Happens LiveWatch What Happens Live that she feels pushed aside since Morgan entered the picture. She, of course, said that she loves Kyle even through all that — but she felt compelled to share her truth in the matter.

Teddi Mellencamp is honestly just confused by it all, though. The former RHOBH cast mate said that she doesn't understand why the women aren't asking Kyle more questions throughout this season. She told E! News, "I'm so confused as to why some of the women — when she said in episode one 'I'm struggling' — why no one asked any questions. Why nobody said 'Is there anything I can do?' Why nobody was an actual friend in that moment."

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Despite controversy, Kyle hasn't ended her friendship with Morgan, though. In fact, her relationship with the country singer is only getting deeper as Kyle prepares to take their friendship to new, professional levels. According to TMZ, the longtime Bravolebrity is working on a documentary about Morgan after the duo were spotted filming at Belly Up in Aspen, Colorado Sunday night.

Apparently, audience members at Morgan's concert were asked to sign releases allowing the footage to be used in a production, according to the outlet. In addition to appearing on camera, Kyle is reportedly an executive producer on the project that will tell the story of Morgan's rise to fame and her struggles with sobriety, in addition to various other health issues.

In May, Morgan told Page Six that she is undergoing a double mastectomy in November after discovering she has the BRCA gene, which indicates a high risk for breast and ovarian cancers. The following month, she shared via Instagram that she had been diagnosed with Tourette’s syndrome, a neurological disorder that causes sudden tics.

“Keeping this short and sweet — if you see me shaking my head a lot I have Tourette’s,” she wrote. “Some folks genuinely ask — others like to troll me, is what it is. I make weird faces and noises sometimes and my head shakes. So just think before you judge.”

Fast forward to the many, many recent rumors that Kyle and Morgan had a falling out, the two were just spotted super close and cozy at Watch What Happens Live! this week. Morgan was seen caressing Kyle's hip as they posed for photos, and it seemed a little more the friendly, TBH. On top of all that, a recent submission Deux Moi (a blind item source on social media) intimates that a "country music singer" plans to debut their new relationship with a magazine cover shoot — and a lot of people think it could be about Morgan and Kyle.

Buying Beverly Hills: Season 2 | Official Clip | Netflix

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Buying Beverly Hills: Season 2 | Official Clip | Netflix

After all that's come out, though, Kyle maintains that the separation has nothing to do with anyone else. In the RHOBH season 13 finale, she told Erika Jayne, "This is literally just about Mo and me." When Hoda and Jenna asked more about why the longtime couple finally split, Kyle explained that she'd just come to a sort of "breaking point" and that there wasn't "one big thing.”

In a preview clip for Buying Beverly Hills season 2, Mauricio confirmed to Farrah, Alexia, and Sophia that the separation was their mom's idea because she needed space. According to him, Kyle laid down "rules" that said he could do what he needed — be it date or otherwise — and that the two just shouldn't ask each other about their whereabouts during the separation. Throughout the actual season, it was more of the same, with very little information coming out. So in the case of what came first, the extramarital dating or the separation, it seems like we might never get our answers...

Bravo

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills Season 14 is finally giving us a peak behind the controversial curtain when it comes to Kyle Richards’ sexuality. The star opened up on the Page Sixpodcast Virtual Reali-Tea, explaining what it was like to finally talk about her romantic life more vulnerably with her daughters.

After the many, many swirling rumors surrounding Kyle’s friendship with Morgan Wade, she decided to address the elephant in the room. She said,

“It was the most difficult conversation I’ve ever had with my children, and I was terrified to have that conversation.”

Kyle explained that she “wanted to be as honest as possible” with her daughters. She said, “There were stories out there about me…and this did make me wonder and question myself.”

“Suddenly” Kyle said that she was “thinking like that” — AKA considering what a relationship with a woman might actually look like, given all the rumors she already was. Luckily, she noted that her daughters were great about it all, even leaning in so far as to making jokes with her at the end of the day.

And as for her friendship with Morgan Wade? Kyle said they had to take a break from each other because the reality TV life isn’t for everyone. Throughout this season, Kyle said she was careful to speak for herself, and not Morgan. She’s happy to be an open book, but clearly wanted to be respectful of Morgan’s privacy.

Still, Kyle tells E! News she and Mauricio "haven't felt the rush" to file for divorce finally. What does it all mean for their relationship? Honestly, who knows at this point...

Here's a complete timeline of the rise and fall of their relationship, in case you wanna walk down memory lane!

1994: Kyle meets Mauricio and they get engaged

The couple met at a Los Angeles nightclub when she was 23 and he was 24 and were engaged by the end of the year. At the time, Richards was divorced from her first husband, with whom she shares a daughter, Farrah.

"I was just so happy and excited — it was a dream for me," Richards told The Knot in 2021. "The moment we started dating, I just felt like he was the one."

1996: Kyle and Mauricio get married and welcome their first child

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Although the couple planned on a spring wedding, news of Kyle’s pregnancy moved the date up to January. By June, the newly married couple welcomed their first daughter together, Alexia.

2000: The couple welcome their second daughter together

Kyle gave birth to their second daughter together (third including Farrah), Sophia.

2008: Kyle and Mauricio welcome their third daughter

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Richards and Umansky's youngest daughter, Portia, was born two years before the premiere of RHOBH, rounding out the family of six.

2010: “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” premieres on Bravo

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The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills Season 1 Trailer

The Bravo gods blessed us with this one. 2010 marked the advent of one of Bravo’s greatest shows to date, featuring none other than Kyle and her family.

2011: Mauricio launches The Agency

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Mauricio co-founded The Agency, a boutique luxury real estate agency in 2011, which has since sold over $41 billion in total sales volume. They employ more than 800 agents and have more than 60 offices in eight countries and counting, with even further plans for expansion. Mauricio and his firm have represented some of the world’s most noteworthy properties, like the Playboy Mansion in 2016, boast several listings well above $100 million and have completed record-breaking transactions. The firm is the subject of Netflix series Buying Beverly Hills, and features Mauricio and daughters(-slash-real-estate-agents) Alexia and Farrah.

March 2013: Mauricio says his marriage has no secrets

"We're the same, with or without cameras. We're just super real and we know each other,” Mauricio told PEOPLE at Cirque Du Soleil's One Night For One Drop benefit show in Las Vegas in March 2013.

Apparently, he and Richards never worried about secrets in their marriage being exposed once they signed on for RHOBH. "We don't have any secrets to hide," he added. "That's one thing we talked about, the skeletons in the closet, and we can handle our worst skeletons."

2015: Kyle and Mo are BFFs

Before romance comes friendship – at least for these two. "We're a really good match," Kyle told PEOPLE in December 2015. "We get along really well, actually better than you see on television!"

"We're best friends," added Mauricio. "We actually enjoy each other. She's funny, she makes me laugh. I don't have big guys nights out; Kyle is the person I want to spend most of my time with."

2017: The Umanskys move, and get robbed

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RHOBH: Kyle Richards Isn't Sure She'll Stay in Her New House (Season 8, Episode 20 ) | Bravo

After seeing one of Mo’s listings, Kyle immediately fell in love and the family packed up their Bel Air mansion for life in the Valley.

"It's not like anything you would see in Los Angeles normally, and I just fell in love and my husband did too," Kyle shared.

Unfortunately, the couple fell victim to a major burglary later that year. Over $1 million in jewelry and handbags were stolen from the couple's new Encino home as the family vacationed in Aspen, CO over the New Year.

"Everything was taken," Richards told PEOPLE in January 2018. "Everything my mother, who passed away, had ever collected and saved to give to me — that I had always envisioned of passing on to my four daughters — was gone. Even my children's baby bracelets. Obviously those are the things that hurt the most, things that I can't replace. They're completely invaluable."

2019: The couple become philanthropists

Kyle and Mauricio were still going strong, even beginning to host annual fundraisers for Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. These parties have become a staple on RHOBH, each year growing in extravagance and raising over six figures.

"When Mauricio was born, he had a blood disease called neutropenia," Kyle revealed in a RHOBH episode. "He spent a good part of his life in Children's Hospital. So when we think about where we want to put our energy and our appreciation into, it's Children's Hospital Los Angeles."

2021: Kyle and Mauricio celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary

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Real Housewives of Beverly Hills Kyle Richards Celebrating 25 Years of Marriage | The Knot

It takes a lot to get to 25 years of marriage — and they did it (seemingly happily)!

2022: We’re talking about MONEY, honey! (And a potential new lover.)

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2022 was a huge year for the Richards-Umansky clan. The family sells their Bel Air mansion following a few years on the market, along with listing their Aspen vacation home. Netflix announces (and premieres) Buying Beverly Hills, and Mauricio’s book, The Real Deal, is released. Despite all of this, the family welcomes their sixth dog, a puppy named Smokey, into the mix.

In February, Kyle and Morgan were first spotted together, enjoying a meal amongst mutual friends and Kyle’s daughter, Sophia. “The most unlikely of friendships some may think but kinship knows no boundaries,” Kyle wrote. Since then, the two have made several appearances together on social media and IRL. In September, Kyle and Morgan were pictured at the 21st Annual Americana Honors & Awards in Nashville and the iHeartRadio Music Festival.

January 2023: Kyle turns 54

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Kyle’s birthday was celebrated with plenty of love in the air — at least on Mauricio’s end. "Happy Birthday to my Queen the love of my life," he captioned a carousel of images on Insta. "You bring life, love, happiness to all our lives and to everyone around you. Thank you for all our years and all our future years. You get better and better. I Love you ❤️ I couldn't do it without you. XOXO."

April 2023: Mauricio shuts down rumors that he's divorcing Kyle

Kyle was spotted sans wedding ring, leading fans to speculate on the status of her marriage. The real estate mogul shut down those rumors on Bravolebs Teddi Mellencamp and Tamra Judge's Two T's In a Pod podcast, sharing "we're not getting divorced…I mean it's so dumb. That one stupid story that came out there, and then the girls all, you know, decided to talk about it on the Housewives, and so now it's a storyline." Apparently, we can expect to see more of him and Kyle Umansky directly addressing the rumors in the upcoming season of RHOBH.

July 2023: News of Kyle and Mo’s separation hits the press

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After months of divorce rumors, an insider told PEOPLE that "Kyle and Mauricio have been separated for a while now but are still living under the same roof." The source added, "They remain amicable as they figure out what’s next for them and their family."

Their joint statement regarding divorce rumors was released the same day, opening insight into their marriage. "In regards to the news that came out about us today... Any claims regarding divorcing are untrue," they said. "However, yes, we have had a rough year. The most challenging one of our marriage. But we both love and respect each other tremendously."

Shortly after the news of their separation, Bravo patriarch Andy Cohen confirmed that "this will be included next season of Beverly Hills in some way, shape or form, that’s all I’ll say.”

The Kyle/Mauricio/Morgan storyline does seem very similar to that of Vanderpump Rules’s Scandoval, with Bravo cameras reportedly picking up to catch the fallout of the rumors and separation for the end of Season 13 – so it’s hard to tell the legitimacy of the scenario.

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Bravo Backstory: Kyle Richards and Mauricio Umansky's Relationship | RHOBH | Bravo

What do you think? Are Kyle and Mauricio together for the long haul? Let us know @BritandCo!

Header image courtesy of @mumasnky / Instagram

This post has been updated.

Outer Banks fans cried saying goodbye to JJ when part 2 dropped on November 7, but I wasn't expecting the Outer Banks cast's goodbye to Rudy Pankow to make me equally emotional. The TV show is a standout because of how electric the cast's chemistry is onscreen — and how close they are offscreen.

But according to some sources, a rift reportedly formed between Rudy Pankow (JJ) and Madison Bailey (Kiara) after fans picked up on their chemistry and started shipping them IRL...like, really intensely. Despite the fact the creators promise this was the plan since season 1, OBX fans are convinced their rumored fallout is the reason Rudy left the show.

Keep reading for the full breakdown on the rumored Outer Banks cast drama between Madison Bailey and Rudy Pankow.

  • Outer Banks cast members Madelyn Cline, Chase Stokes, Madison Bailey, Rudy Pankow, Jonathan Daviss, Drew Starkey, and Carlacia Grant are incredibly close offscreen.
  • It seems drama started between Rudy and Madison after fans who shipped their characters started shipping the actors in real life.
  • And a variety of OBX fans think this drama is why Rudy chose to leave the show after season 4.

Why aren't Rudy and Madison friends anymore?

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Rudy Pankow and Madison Bailey were best friends during season 1 (Madison called Rudy her "bestie," and said that in any situation, "he's the first person I'm going to call"). But rumors of a fallout came after the show went viral in 2020. Fans picked up on their onscreen chemistry and started shipping the actors in addition to shipping their characters JJ and Kiara (the internet shipped the fictional couple so hard, in fact, that the relationship was written into the show despite it not being the team's original plan).

"Madison and Kiara, and Rudy and JJ, are two different people," Madison said in a 2020 Entertainment Tonight interview after the relationship started picking up steam. "Let's keep the ships on the show. But as far as the show, I'm all for it."

After publicity for Outer Banks season 2 began, fans noticed Rudy and Madison didn't seem to have the same connection in public, and even appeared to avoid each other on set — a far cry from their adorable interactions during press for season 1.

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Fans started outright blaming Rudy's girlfriend Elaine Seimek, who was originally a PA on the show, for causing a rift between the two actors. Madison herself shut down the rumors with a TikTok promising they all had no problems, while Rudy Pankow took to Instagram to defend his girlfriend.

"To those who are creating such displeasure and opinions about the one I love and my relationship, it’s time to stop," Rudy Pankow said in an August 6, 2021 post. "In this era of social engagement and enlightenment I want to express the importance to spread positivity and needing to know when it is unfair to express your own distaste for something or someone, especially when you can do it behind an anonymous identity. I was always told the best version of yourself is your most humbled self…I make this statement as my most humbled self and would be so grateful if we all would move forward in positivity and respect."

Is there drama between the Outer Banks cast?

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

The Outer Banks cast drama rumors only intensified after a June 2023 dinner, when Madison Bailey and her partner Mariah Linney reportedly unfollowed Elaine on Instagram. Not to mention the fact Rudy Pankow isn't in any of the Outer Banks season 4 cast videos.

After JJ's death rocked the internet, creators Josh and Jonas Pate and Shannon Burke said that it was always the plan to kill JJ. "For a long time we had known that someone was going to die," showrunner Shannon Burke told Teen Vogue. "We thought it was going to be JJ all along."

However, the fact that JJ and Kiara have been dating for almost 2 years at this point, yet barely react to the other heading into danger has fans thinking Rudy asked to leave the show. And rumors that they filmed multiple endings to give Rudy the option to stay only adds fuel to the fire.

When new episodes of the show dropped in November of 2024, fans almost immediately clocked that Rudy and Madison appear to have used body doubles for a cuddling scene — while Madelyn Cline and Chase Stokes (who dated from June 2020 to November 2021) were cozied up across the campfire.

Even though an anonymous source suggested Rudy and Madison aren't friends anymore, and that their chemistry onscreen in season 1 was because they'd fallen for each other IRL, a source told People the actors are not feuding.

When did Madison Bailey and Rudy Pankow meet?

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Rudy and Madison first met after Rudy had booked the role of JJ and Madison was headed to a final audition. Despite the fact they had mutual friends, they didn't meet until they were on the same plane to Charleston. She told Harper's Bazaar in 2020 that she said hello when they crossed paths, then found a DM from him on social media. “He was like, ‘I knew you were Kiara the second I saw you,’" she said. "I was like, "Oh my God, did this guy three seats up really just DM me?’ He went and found our mutuals, found my page, and messaged me.”

Well, during press for Outer Banks season 4, when the cast was asked who would be most likely to fall in love with a stranger on a plane, Carlacia Grant (Cleo) answered with Madison, leading fans to believe she was confirming the romance rumors.

Did Rudy quit OBX?

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

Rudy Pankow exited Outer Banks after season 4, and Madison Bailey finally spoke about what JJ means to her in the cast's official goodbye — and got emotional talking about how well Rudy brought the character to life.

"We all read the character on the page," she says. "And we know what you brought to it and you turned it out and really made something of it and paid respect to the depth of the character while bringing a lightheartedness that the show desperately needed."

Check back here for the latest updates on the Outer Banks cast drama. Read up on why Outer Banks Fans Are Really Not Happy With THAT Death In The OBX Season 4 Ending.

There are a few dystopian stories that feel so relevant, they almost feel like nonfiction, and readers have always considered Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale to be one of those stories. The book was published in 1985 to rave reviews, and when Hulu adapted the novel into a TV show in 2017, it became the first streaming series to win the Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series. No big deal!

Fans have been waiting for news on the show ever since the season 5 finale aired in November of 2022, and after a nearly two-year wait, The Handmaid's Tale season 6 is finally in production. Here's everything you need to know about the final installment of the hit series, including a sneak peek from the upcoming season.

Keep reading for the latest news on The Handmaid's Tale season 6.

Is there a season 6 of Handmaid's Tale release date?

Elisabeth Moss/Instagram

We don't have an exact release date for The Handmaid's Tale season 6 yet, but we do know it'll premiere in the spring of 2025, according to Disney+'s first look in their Coming In 2025 teaser video. That ideally means we could see it anywhere from March to May!

The eligibility period for the Emmys ends in May, meaning the show will be eligible for 2025 Emmys consideration! The Handmaid's Tale season 6 was scheduled to film in 2023 but was delayed due to last summer's Hollywood strikes.

On September 7, actress Elisabeth Moss posted an image from set. "Guess who's back? Production on the final season has officially started," the caption reads. In addition to starring as June, Moss will direct the first episode of season 6.

Your First Look At Season 6

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Of the clips shown in Disney+'s sneak peek of The Handmaid's Tale in their Coming In 2025 teaser video, the first shows Serena saying: "Something big is about to happen." 👀

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The next clip shows a wide shot of June walking with a backpack down a long dirt road.

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The final clip from the most recent season 6 sneak peek shows June with a look of stern determination on her face, saying: "Let's bring them home." Oh, we are so pumped.

What is The Handmaid's Tale season 6 about?

Sophie Giraud/Hulu

The Handmaid's Tale season 6 is sure to pick up right where season 5 left off: June and Nichole board a train for Vancouver (to later transfer to a boat bound for Hawaii), while Luke stays behind at the train station and is arrested for the death of a truck driver who attempted to assassinate June. On the train, June is reunited with Serena and Noah.

Who's in the cast of The Handmaid's Tale season 6?

Sophie Giraud/Hulu

The Handmaid's Tale stars Elisabeth Moss, Bradley Whitford, Yvonne Strahovski, Max Minghella, O-T Fagbenle, Samira Wiley, Ann Dowd, Madeline Brewer, Amanda Brugel, and Sam Jaeger. Sydney Sweeney, Alexis Bledel, and McKenna Grace have also had roles on the show.

Alexis Bledel won the Emmy for Best Supporting Actress in 2018!

Is The Handmaid's Tale done?

Sophie Giraud/Hulu

The show is almost done! The Handmaid's Tale season 6 will be the last installment of the series.

Is The Testaments going to be a series?

Amazon

Yes, Margaret Atwood's 2019 novel The Testamentswill be a Hulu TV show. The book revolves around Aunt Lydia from The Handmaid's Tale (played by Ann Dowd in both series), Agnes, who lives in Gilead, and Daisy, who lives in Canada. Bruce Miller, who was the showrunner for the first five seasons of The Handmaid's Tale, will be showrunner for The Testaments.

Are you excited for The Handmaid's Tale season 6? Check back here for the latest news on the series.

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

While holiday enthusiasts are breaking out their Christmas trees and stockings, some of us are getting into the spirit a little differently. As a member of the tribe, December is high time for latkes and dreidels. And while our celebrations are truly lit (it’s the Festival of Lights, after all!) the merch selection has never quite had the same allure as the magic of Christmas.

The eight nights of Hanukkah begin on December 25 this year, and we’re on a mission to elevate the classic blue and silver while helping you answer the most challenging question of our time: “what should I buy for my Jewish friends, anyway?” Whether you're looking to ditch the kitsch or fully lean into the uniqueness being one of the Chosen people, here are 24 items that should be on your Hanukkah decorations list.

Our favorite Hanukkah decorations for 2024:

Jonathan Adler

Jonathan Adler Dachsund Menorah

I just want an entire zoo of these Jonathan Adler menorahs.

Piecework Puzzles

Piecework Puzzles Hanukkah Cookie Tin

There're truly no better way to celebrate than with jelly donuts, dreidels and gelt – except maybe in puzzle form.

Adara Rituals

Adara Rituals Talia Dreidel Terrarium

Dreidel-shaped terrariums are the Hanukkah decorations extra I never know I needed. Add a plant for some greenery or dress them up with fairy lights!

Susan Alexandra

Susan Alexandra Heirloom Tomato Menorah

If Betsey Johnson were to create a capsule Hanukkah collection, this menorah would undoubtedly be a part.

Garnet Hill

Garnet Hill Personalized Hook Wool Pillow

We love a personalization moment, especially when it's as cozy as this pillow.

Adara Rituals

Adara Rituals Liora Hurrican Candle Holder

Candle holders shaped like the Star of David? Yes please!

Wayfair

Godinger Contemporary Modern Menorah

For a more modern take, we love this marble menorah (with pops of gold, of course).

Adara Rituals

Adara Rituals Nava Happy Hanukkah Beaded Sign

ICYMI, it's Hanukkah. This beaded sign is giving DIY vibes without all the effort.

Lele Sadoughi

Lele Sadoughi Indigo Crystal Dreidel Headband

Reigning queen of headbands, Lele Sadoughi, truly has something for everyone. I'll take your ugly Christmas sweater and raise you one (actually cute) dreidel headband.

abc Home

abc Home Menorah Ornament

We may not have Christmas trees, but *some of us* have leaned into the Hanukkah bush movement. 👀 No judgement here, though -- unless, of course, you don't decorate yours with on-theme ornaments like this.

Tchotchke

Tchotchke Bubble Ceramic Menorah

This ultra cool bubble menorah is a vibe. Buy it for your most grown up friend who actually has their life together.

Susan Alexandra

Susan Alexandra Bubble Cup

The cool-girl kiddush cup we never knew we needed.

Etsy

Handcrafted Wooden Menorah

Feeling rustic? Lean in and add this artisan crafted menorah to your cart.

Susan Alexandra

Susan Alexandra Painterly Dreidel

Dreidels, but make it art.

Etsy

Personalized Hanukkah Candle

We can never have enough candles, especially on Hanukkah! Write a personalized message to your bestie and enjoy the scents of the season.

Etsy

Gold Hanukkah Dreidel

It was only a matter of time until the wooden dreidels of yore got a luxe upgrade.

Piecework

Isabel Halley Striped Platter

Plate all your dishes on this trendy serving platter.

Piecework

Chefaine Yiddish Cocktail Napkins (Set of Four)

Is there anything more Jewish than busting out a random Yiddish word at the slightest inconvenience? No, there's not -- which is why these cocktail napkins are a tongue-in-cheek addition to any dinner party.

Bloomingdale's

Apeloig Collection Menorah

Yes, this is a Barbiecore menorah. And yes, my life is now complete.

For even more holiday and home decor inspo, sign up for our weekly email newsletter!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

You've been putting in extra hours at the gym, guzzling plenty of water and eating healthy all week, but then nighttime rolls around and your craving for something sweet hits hard. The thing is, you don't have to tell your sweet tooth to "just chill" and deprive yourself completely. After all, sweet treats are what make the world go 'round. It's possible to still indulge in dessert without eating something *totally* unhealthy that'll also leave you feeling groggy.

Here are 40 healthy desserts that you'll go absolutely crazy over!

Brit + Co

Lebanese Rice Pudding

This rice pudding recipe features rosewater, orange blossom water, and pistachios for a light, well-rounded flavor that we can't get enough of. You won't be able to either! If you've never made rice pudding before, then this easy recipe is the perfect way to practice.

Brit + Co

Easy Brownie Cake Pops With Sprinkles

Healthy desserts don't have to be boring or tasteless. Swap your go-to milk chocolate for dark chocolate with this recipe, which is full of antioxidants and can even lower your blood pressure. To make it even healthier, swap the coconut sugar for honey, or add a drizzle of the golden stuff right on top.

Skinny Taste

No-Bake Peanut Butter Pie

This super easy no-bake dessert combines peanut butter, fat-free whipped cream, and reduced fat cream cheese in a sweet graham cracker crust. After you pour in all the ingredients, drizzle a little chocolate syrup on top and prep yourself a slice.

Julia's Album

Peach and Blueberry Greek Yogurt Cake

Made with fresh blueberries, peaches, and lightened up with creamy Greek yogurt, this cake is perfect for breakfast, brunch or dessert. Just make sure you finish it within the first two days (it’s a little too moist on day three), which shouldn’t be a problem because it’s *so* good.

Half Baked Harvest

No-Fuss Healthy Coconut Tart

This easy dessert sits atop a crunchy crust crafted from cashews, coconut flakes, dates, and cinnamon. The filling compliments the outer in the most perfect way!

Diethood

Creamy Ricotta Cannoli

If you thought you had to give up cannolis just because you’re trying to watch your calories, think again. The shells in this recipe are completely baked (instead of partially fried like in classic versions). We told you'll love reaching for healthy desserts!

Two Spoons

Healthy Vegan Matcha Cheesecake

Gluten-free, refined sugar-free, vegan, and no-cake, this cheesecake does it all – including providing a caffeine boost from matcha powder.

Cooking Classy

Chocolate Fruit Dip

If you’re going to eat a big plate of fruit, you might as well have something chocolatey and delicious to dip it in! This cream cheese and cocoa powder-based treat will have you craving fresh fruit like never before.

The Endless Meal

Healthy Cranberry Coffee Cake

Greet your mornings (or late nights) with this oat-filled coffee cake. While being healthy, it still fulfills all the best textures and tastes.

Running With Spoons

Dark Chocolate Cheesecake Bars

Now you can have dessert and seconds. These decadent dark chocolate bars come together entirely in the food processor and are ready to eat in an hour. Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks, if they somehow manage to last that long. 😗

Chocolate and Carrots

Skinny Cookie Dough Popsicles

Not even ice cream is off limits – if you choose the right recipe. In this one, sweet chocolate chip cookie dough is sandwiched between layers of non-fat honey Greek yogurt to bring you a healthy dessert that is both light and satisfying.

Rachel Mansfield

Fruit and Veggie Freezie Pops

This recipe takes one of your fave nostalgic snacks and health-ifies them, packing each popsicle tube with fruits and veggies that won't make you crash like sugar will.

Easy as Apple Pie

Low Fat Apple Cake Healthy Dessert Idea

With only 116 calories per slice, and absolutely *no* butter or oil in the batter, this cake is a healthy dessert dream come true. Sprinkle with powdered sugar right before serving for a touch of extra sweetness to complement the tart green apples.

The Edgy Veg

Frozen Vegan Yogurt Bark

Yogurt bark is painfully easy to make, and the best part about it is you can customize the sweetness level, using honey or maple syrup, then pile on your favorite fruits for one of the most delicious healthy desserts you'll ever eat. 🍓

Live Eat Learn

Healthy Date Shake

Dates make this shake a whole lot healthier than ice cream additions would, but still make this sip taste totally like dessert.

Sally's Baking Addiction

Skinny Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars

While these may look and taste like a diet deal-breaker, there are actually only 128 calories in each cheesecake bar. Greek yogurt and reduced-fat cream cheese are key in keeping these dessert bites on the lighter side... without sacrificing on the creamy, tasty flavor.

Give Recipe

Cinnamon Baked Pears

All you need is half an hour to bake these sweetened pears to perfection, and a generous dollop of clotted cream to top everything off, in the best way.

Munching with Mariyah

The Best Healthy Peanut Butter Cups

It's like Reese's, but healthier! These healthy, mini-sized desserts are made in a muffin tin or mold to form the classic cup shape.

Carlsbad Cravings

Frozen Fruit Skewers

Munching on frozen fruit is a *great* way to cater to your sweet tooth. Drizzle on a bit of semi-sweet chocolate and freeze for a grab-and-go dessert, anytime the craving calls!

Bran Appetit

Whole Wheat Chocolate Cake Donuts

Yes, even donuts can be lightened up. This recipe calls for whole wheat flower, almond milk, ground flax seed and a scrumptious powdered sugar vanilla glaze – all forming your new favorite after-dinner snack. So grab a glass of that almond milk, and start dunking.

Chelsea's Messy Apron

Greek Yogurt Banana and Oat Bread

This healthy banana bread won’t leave you feeling bloated and heavy afterward. Greek yogurt acts as a lighter, healthier replacement for butter and oil in the batter, and the chocolate chunks make the bread taste indulgent instead of a total sacrifice.

Munching with Mariyah

Healthy Vegan Twix Bars

So you're telling us we can chow down on our favorite candy bars without totally feeling yuck?! 😵💫 These vegan-ified Twix bars are the perfect end-of-the-night dessert snack.

Sweet and Savory

Classic Pavlova

This meringue-based dessert is light and airy, and looks so good your friends will be lining up for a slice (and seconds!) Top with fresh fruit and powdered sugar and you’re ready to eat.

The Girl on Bloor

Healthy Edible Cookie Dough

Coconut oil, oat flour, maple syrup, vanilla, salt, and of course, chocolate chips combine in a single bowl to form a heavenly edible cookie dough our child selves have *always* dreamed of. This is one of those healthy desserts that we have to have every month!

Chocolate Covered Katie

Chocolate Pudding

There’s a time and place for avocados (guac, anyone?) but this chocolate pudding is not one of them. Instead, this pudding is lightened up with coconut milk and your favorite no-calorie sweetener.

Salt & Lavender

Pumpkin Pie Popsicles

Get *all* the health benefits from pumpkin without having to eat it in boring form. These frozen treats make Greek yogurt and pumpkin partner up for a totally yummy (and cooling) bite.

Mel's Kitchen Cafe

Heavenly Blueberry and Cream Dessert

Heavenly is the *absolute* right word to describe this dessert. Use a store-bought angel food cake to save yourself some time, then layer it with homemade whipped cream and fresh blueberries. Stick the completed trifle in the fridge for the next two hours while it chills.

Pink Owl Kitchen

Healthy Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Because who could ever say no to PB and chocolate? Certainly not us!

Lovely Little Kitchen

Cream Cheese Lemon Coffee Cake

Skip the calorie-laden slice of coffee cake and go with this lighter lemon version instead. The crumbly topping and tangy flavor will leave you wanting more, and that’s one craving you *can* give in to.

A Spicy Perspective

Gluten-Free Healthy Vegan Fruit Pizza

Fruit meets a creamy, sweet cream cheese filling in this vegan dessert. Plus, it gives you the opportunity to eat the whole rainbow – while still feeling healthy as ever. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Most Hungry

BAKED PLANTAINS

Sweet, caramelized, and oh-so-easy to make, they're the guilt-free treat that proves healthy can be downright delicious.

Salt and Lavender

PUMPKIN CHIA PUDDING

Pumpkin Chia Pudding is the fall-flavored upgrade your dessert game needs. It's a creamy, dreamy dance of pumpkin spice and everything nice.

Two Peas & Their Pod

Healthy Chocolate Zucchini Muffins

Moist, decadent, and sneakily packed with veggies, they're the ultimate guilt-free indulgence. Get ready to redefine your relationship with chocolate – it's one of the healthy desserts you'll love savoring.

Gastroplant

Roasted Peaches With Vegan Ice Cream and Granola

It's like a peach cobbler, but without the guilt trip. Your sweet tooth will thank you.

A Virtual Vegan

No Bake Chocolate Cake

Perfect for those moments when you crave a slice of heaven but don't want to turn up the heat. Go ahead, treat yourself!

Averie Cooks

Key Lime Meringue Pie

Talk about light and fluffy! This key lime pie is the one thing that won't give guests cavities during Thanksgiving because it's "not too tart, not too sweet" according to Averie.

No Eggs or Ham

Plant-Based Strawberry Marshmallow Cookies

What's soft and absolutely decadent? These plant-based cookies, that's what! They take 45 minutes to bake and require everything from Melt Organic vegan butter to freeze dried strawberries to create the chewiest sweets you'll taste during the holidays.

Feel Good Foodie

Chocolate Peppermint Bark

The holidays aren't complete without peppermint bark being on the menu. Everyone of all ages can enjoy this sweet and minty treat without spoiling their appetites.

Culinary Hill

Fruitcake Cookies

We've found the recipe that will make fruitcake lovers go wild! Ingredients like candied cherries, figs, walnut, and light brown sugar all add up to make 40 cookies with this recipe.

The Endless Meal

Cookie Dough Cake Pops

Keep it really light and simple with these cookie dough cake pops. They're 100% eggless and count as no-bake treats!

Follow us on Pinterest for more healthy desserts and recipes inspiration. Join our newsletter for more ideas sent right to your inbox, or check out our baking and cooking classes!

This post has been updated.