You Probably Missed This 'Gilmore Girls' Cameo In 'The Princess Diaries'

anne hathaway the princess diaries gilmore girls

While our favorite 2000s movies and TV shows aren't necessarily connected, they do come together to create an insane viewing experience (it honestly feels like a parallel universe's version of the MCU). At the time, we could choose anything from an empowering feel-good film, like The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, to an emotional, high-stakes drama like The OC. Even though they had similar aesthetics and trends, they all feel like separate entities, which makes any kind of crossover absolutely mind-bending. So when I realized that Anne Hathaway's The Princess Diaries had a cameo from a Gilmore Girls castmember, I had to do a double take.

Buena Vista Pictures/Disney

In The Princess Diaries, which premiered in August 2001, Anne Hathaway's Mia accompanies her crush Josh to Grove High School's beach party. Unbeknownst to her, he's only interested because of her royal status, while she's daydreaming about a kiss that's so life-changing the only option is to pop her foot in the air.

The beach party is full of sailing, a buffet, and music from Lana (Mandy Moore), but things take a turn for the romantic later in the evening when the students begin a slow dance. Any Princess Diaries fan will remember the dance is interrupted by paparazzi, but before Mia runs away from the party, you can actually see a Gilmore Girls actor in the background!

Buena Vista Pictures/Disney

Todd Lowe, who played Zack on Gilmore Girls from 2002-2007, makes an appearance as another student dancing with Lana. Lowe's only in the movie for a few moments (and is credited as Eric), but I've already planned a whole backstory for Zack based on this one scene.

Now I'm imagining that Zack lived out in California for a while, exploring the music scene and surfing. Who knows — maybe the chaos surrounding Mia made him think about living the small town life. This could mean that, when Dave left Stars Hollow for college in The Golden State (after Adam Brody left the series to film The OC), Zack could have helped prepare him with a list of coffee shops, restaurants, and the best beach spots. Even though this is something from my own imagination, it's still so fun to think about!

Did you catch this The Princess Diaries x Gilmore Girls cameo? Check out why Gilmore Girls Season 3 Is Simply The Best, And No TV Show Has Matched It Since.

Lead image via Buena Vista Pictures/Disney

While the '90s offered so many wonderful things, and I really do mean so many (y'all remember those iconic '90s toys?!), the decade also offered some major film flops. Considering I was born in ‘98, it may seem like I don’t have a leg to stand on here, but trust me on this one.

Here are the 10 worst 90s movies that, simply, should not have been made.

1. ​The Waterboy (1998)

Touchstone Pictures

I have so much, yet simultaneously nothing, to say about Adam Sandler’s The Waterboy. Sandler unwittingly (as far as I know) mocks a stutter and it seems as though they wanted that to be the film’s funny bone, and when that didn’t succeed, there wasn’t much else holding this movie up. That’s probably why it has a 34 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.

2. ​Ace Ventura: Pet Detective (1994)

Warner Bros. Pictures

Jim Carrey notoriously has a few poorly-rated films under his belt, but Ace Ventura: Pet Detective may take the cake. One of the reasons fans love Carrey is certainly for his range of facial expressions, but it has a time and place, and this film needed more than some quirky facial expressions to save it. The dialogue simply couldn’t be saved by a big Carrey grin, and for that reason, Ace Ventura: Pet Detective is one of the worst films to come out of the 90s. And the movie’s 47 percent RT score isn’t doing it any favors.

3. ​Major Payne (1995)

Universal Pictures

Probably one of the most infamously bad movies of the decade, Major Payne (which has a 29 percent Rotten Tomatoes score) released in 1995 and we’ve never looked back… literally. I don’t know much about comedy, but I do know that delivery is everything, and Damon Wayans did not deliver.

4. ​Batman Forever (1995)

Warner Bros. Pictures

If there’s one thing the 2000s got right, it's the Batman franchise and universe. Unfortunately, the 90s missed the mark. Batman Forever leaned too heavily on over-the-top humor and campiness that it lacked any ounce of character development – something that is very needed in Batman movies, to say the least — which explains its 41 percent Rotten Tomatoes score.

5. ​Wild Wild West (1999)

Warner Bros. Pictures

A diminished homage to the 1965 Wild Wild West show, the 1999 version failed to live up to the original’s tongue-in-cheek dialogue, developed characters, and the western of it all. Its campy tone didn’t win over new audiences and betrayed fans of the original series. All in all, Wild Wild West was a huge misfire, and only earned a 16 percent Rotten Tomatoes score.

6. ​Hook (1991)

TriStar Pictures

I remember being so excited to watch this when I was a young lass, only to have my young self be very disappointed. Hook played far too much on creating a sentimental and nostalgic film that it neglected a plot line. It relied too heavily on honing in on references to the original tale that resulted in a messy plot that was, at the end of the day, confusing. Hook was sadly anything but magical, as is its 29 percent RT score.

7. ​RoboCop 3 (1993)

Orion Pictures International

RoboCop 3 completely deviated from what fans loved best in its original iteration. As most third installments do, RoboCop 3 was as much of a failure as it was a cash grab. It could’ve had something to do with swapping out and replacing the main actor for the protagonist, RoboCop, but what do I know? (The 9 percent Rotten Tomatoes score. That’s what I know.)

8. ​Mr. Wrong (1996)

Touchstone Pictures

Bill Pullman’s character isn’t the only thing wrong in Mr. Wrong, which has a 7 percent score on Rotten Tomatoes. While rom coms usually, and obviously, consist of romance and comedy, this film’s plot points appeared manufactured and entirely unrealistic.It’s historically bad, so much so that Ellen DeGeneres (who stars in the movie) has joked about it being a “horrible flop that should have a sequel.” I get the joke, Ellen, I really do, but let’s hope there’s not a shred of seriousness in there.

9. ​Speed 2: Cruise Control (1997)

20th Century

You’d think Speed 2: Cruise Control would set an example as to why sequels of great, standalone films should not be made, but alas we’re going to be plagued by them for years to come. This second installment lacked everything the first had to offer; the high-octane intensity, the action, the non-stop suspense, none of it was there in the sequel, leading to a film that lacked a real premise and any substance — and that got a 4 percent Rotten Tomatoes score.

10. ​Barb Wire (1996)

Gramercy/Universal Pictures

I really didn’t want to put this one on the list because I love Pamela Anderson, but it’s only fair, and I cannot be biased. Barb Wire was, and remains, a hot mess with only a 28 percent RT score. There was no real trajectory of any aspects in this film, but particularly the aimless script. Thankfully, Anderson is having a redemption arc with her newest and upcoming film, The Last Showgirl and I’m loving it.

Did we miss one of your worst 90s movies? Check out our list of The Worst Movies of 2024 — and The Best Movies Of 2024!

Studio McGee has spent the last decade inspiring us with a blend of accessible and elevated designs, creating beautiful and totally livable spaces. In her 2025 Home Decor Trends report, Shea McGee emphasizes that home decor trends evolve gradually over time, and I couldn’t agree more. Unlike the fast-paced world of fashion, where trends shift every season, these design moves develop organically over time, and that's good for your wallet and taking your time to create a space you love. Get inspired to refresh your home in 2025 with a few new accents, from embellishments like fringe to maybe a little western or seaside art.

Here are Studio McGee's 2025 Home Decor Trend Predictions, with a few surprises!

Photo: Shade Degges | Design: Studio Mountain

Romantic Silhouettes

Take Romantic Silhouettes, for example. This is a trend we've seen steadily gain traction over the past few years. Think curvy furniture, delicate floral prints, and soft blush hues — when curated thoughtfully, these elements can become timeless staples in your home.

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- YouTube

Watch Shea's take on designing your home for 2025!

Photo: Michael P.H. Clifford | Design: A1000XBetter

Western Cowboy

This is a design trend that totally surprised me, but I'm so happy to see it in the mix. Elements like leather furniture, rustic accessories, equestrian art, even wood walls, shown in this office designed by A1000XBetter, are making an impact in 2025 and beyond. But Shea notes that you can take this trend literally or just be inspired by the look. You can also mix it with other styles to personalize it for you. Add romantic pillows or ruffled tablecloths like McGee & Co. x Loeffler Randall Gardenia Ruffle Border Tablecloth – things you love that make it yours vs. based solely on one trend.

Gavin Carter| Design: House of Rolison

Saturated Colors

Shea predicts that rich hues like deep browns, oxblood red, and earthy greens will continue to dominate home decor colors going into 2025. House of Rolison's bathroom brown is an excellent example of this beautiful trend.

courtesy of Stewart-Schafer

Pattern Drenching

Embracing a single pattern and drenching an entire room in it — from walls to pillows, headboards, and curtains — is a surprise trend for 2025. This maximalist approach, which has been quietly gaining traction, draws inspiration from Arts and Crafts designers like William Morris and has been in and out of vogue since the Victorian era.

McGee & Co.

Embellishments

This is a trend you can easily DIY to add an extra layer of charm to your decor. Think playful details like fringe accents —beautifully shown in McGee & Co.'s Philippa Settee — along with tassels, pleats, ruffles, and rope. It’s all about embracing texture and whimsy, so have fun with it!

McGee & Co.

Seaside Inspiration

Coastal decor has long been an influence in design and you can be inspired by it in many forms, from shell accents to beach-inspired artwork like McGee & Co.'s Distant Coastline art to textured seagrass baskets and jute rugs. Even the soothing hues of the sea — think soft blues, sandy neutrals, and gentle greens — can inspire your 2025 spaces.

Check out the full list of Studio McGee 2025 Design Trends!

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

When you're in between episodes of your favorite January TV shows, then there's nothing better than watching new January movies. (Also, I can't believe it's almost a new year already!! Where did the time go?!). Whether you're a tried-and-true movie theater goer, or you love nothing more than a movie night from the comfort of your own couch, these rom-coms, action movies, and horror flicks coming in 2025 are exactly what you need to add to your New Year's Resolutions.

Here are all the new January movies you can watch in 2025.

1. Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl — On Netflix January 3, 2025

Netflix

Wallace and Gromit are back! Thank goodness, because there's no other way I would want to start a brand new year. This January movie sees Wallace's new "smart" gnome become way too smart — and a dangerous certain someone might be behind everything. Now Gromit has to battle the most sinister of forces to save the day.

Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl premieres January 3 and stars Ben Whitehead, Peter Kay, Lauren Patel, Reece Shearsmith, Diane Morgan, Adjoa Andoh, Muzz Khan, and Lenny Henry.

2. Better Man — In Theaters January 10, 2025

Paramount Pictures

This new movie is based on the true story of British popstar Robbie Williams. While examining his rise to fame and his time with boyband Take That, the movie also dives into the highs and lows of fame...all while presenting as a monkey. I'm going to be honest, this movie really confuses me. It's definitely a creative and unique concept, which I've been craving more of, but I'll have to see this movie before I can figure out how I feel!

Better Man premieres January 10 and stars Robbie Williams, Jonno Davies, Steve Pemberton, Damon Herriman, Raechelle Banno, Alison Steadman, Kate Mulvaney, Frazer Hadfield, Tom Budge, and Anthony Hayes.

3. The Last Showgirl — In Theaters January 10, 2025

Roadside Attractions

Pamela Anderson stars as Shelly, a showgirl who has to figure out what the rest of her life looks like when her show suddenly closes after 30 years. With an incredible cast, a award-worthy performance from Pamela, and music by Miley Cyrus, this is one January movie I literally can't stop thinking about.

The Last Showgirl premieres January 10 and stars Jamie Lee Curtis, Dave Bautista, Brenda Song, Kiernan Shipka, and Billie Lourd.

4. Wolf Man — In Theaters January 17, 2025

Nicola Dove/Universal Pictures

Scary movie fans rejoice! Wolf Man is exactly the kind of movie that'll send shivers down your spine, unrelated to the winter weather. When Blake (Christopher Abbott), Charlotte (Julia Garner), and their daughter Ginger (Matilda Firth) come across a dangerous and mysterious animal, they barricade themselves inside a farmhouse to stay safe. Unfortunately, Blake begins a strange transformation of his own — and puts Charlotte and Ginger in a whole new kind of danger.

Wolf Man premieres January 17 and stars Christopher Abbott, Julia Garner and Sam Jaeger, Matilda Firth, Benedict Hardie, Ben Prendergast, Zac Chandler, Beatriz Romilly, and Milo Cawthorne.

5. Paddington in Peru — In Theaters January 17, 2025

Peter Mountain/StudioCanal/Sony Pictures

If you're already dreaming about a summer vacation, you're not alone — even Paddington Bear is headed somewhere warm! In Paddington in Peru, our favorite cuddly teddy is on a quest to find Aunt Lucy...and brings the whole family along for the ride.

Paddington in Peru premieres January 17 and stars Hugh Bonneville, Emily Mortimer, Julie Walters, Jim Broadbent, Imelda Staunton, Carla Tous, Ben Whishaw, Olivia Colman, and Madeleine Harris.

6. One of Them Days — In Theaters January 24, 2025

Sony Pictures

Keke Palmer and SZA are reviving the BFF comedy in 2025 and I am MORE THAN READY. When Dreux and Alyssa learn Alyssa's BF has spent their rent money, they have to go on a totally unexpected adventure to keep themselves from getting evicted.

One of Them Days premieres January 24 and stars Keke Palmer, SZA, Maude Apatow, and Janelle James.

7. Flight Risk — In Theaters January 24, 2025

Lionsgate

In this new January movie, Downton Abbey's Michelle Dockery stars as a U.S. Marshall who must bring a witness to court and deal with the fact the pilot's really a hitman. (I can't help but wonder what Lady Mary would do in this scenario).

Flight Risk premieres January 24 and stars Michelle Dockery, Mark Walberg, and Topher Grace.

8. Inheritance — In Theaters January 24, 2025

IFC Films

Maya's life turns upside down when she learns her father used to be a spy...and then finds herself in the middle of an international conspiracy. No big deal!! Now Maya must evade dangerous hunters and stay alive long enough to find the answers to her questions.

Inheritance premieres January 24 and stars Phoebe Dynevor and Rhys Ifans.

9. You're Cordially Invited — On Prime Video January 30, 2025

Prime Video

Reese Witherspoon and Will Ferrell are starting 2025 with a bang! This hilarious R-rated rom-com follows Reese's character as she plans her sister's destination wedding...then realizes the venue has double booked them with Will Ferrell, a father who's determined that his daughter's (Geraldine Viswanathan) wedding go perfectly. When I say chaos ensues, I'm talking alligator wrestling, a zebra knocking over the cake, and strippers.

You're Cordially Invited premieres January 30 and stars Will Ferrell, Reese Witherspoon, Geraldine Viswanathan, Meredith Hagner, Jimmy Tatro, Stony Blyden, Leanne Morgan, Rory Scovel, Keyla Monterroso Mejia, Ramona Young, Jack McBrayer, and Celia Weston.

10. Valiant One — In Theaters January 31, 2025

Briarcliff Entertainment

When a captain and his unit get trapped behind enemy lines — and their equipment goes out — they have to band together and figure out how to get to safety. This January movie has some familiar faces like Chase Stokes and Lana Condor, and it'll keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Valiant One premieres January 31 and stars Chase Stokes, Lana Condor, Desmin Borges, Callan Mulvey, Jonathan Whitesell, and Daniel Jun.

11. Mickey 17 — In Theaters January 31, 2025

Warner Bros. Pictures

Mickey Barnes goes on countless life-ending missions after he signs up to be an Expendable. On his quest to colonize the ice world of Niflheim, he's cloned countless times — but, shockingly, nothing really goes wrong until two Mickeys wind up surviving at the same time.

Mickey 17 premieres January 31 and stars Robert Pattinson, Naomi Ackie, Steven Yeun, Toni Collette, and Mark Ruffalo.

Don't forget to watch this year's best New December Movies and New December TV Shows before you ring in the new year!

Dunkin’s winter menu for 2025 is lookin’ pretty sweet. Seriously – 3 out of 5 new drinks on the menu are inspired by cake. Since there’s little I love more than a good, decadent dessert (other than coffee, of course), I’m especially excited about this new lineup!

The Dunkin’ winter menu also has one sweet snack and an iced espresso drink that are both hauntingly similar to what Starbucks has to offer. Is the competition heating up, or is it just me?

The Dunkin’ winter menu dropped on December 31, just ahead of the new year. Dunkin's holiday menu dropped on November 1.

Let’s officially get into it. Here’s everything on the Dunkin’ menu this December to start 2025 off just right!

Drinks On The Dunkin' Winter Menu

@snackolator

NEW! Lava Cake Signature Latte

Lava Cake Swirl flavoring, whipped cream, mocha drizzle, and hot chocolate powder. Now that's a mouthful! That's exactly how this new drink is built – with tons and tons of chocolate. If you've got a strong sweet tooth, this one's for you.

@snackolator

NEW! Lava Cake Coffee

Dunkin' is also featuring the new Lava Cake Swirl flavoring in this creamy coffee. It'll be available to order hot or iced!

@snackolator

Brown Sugar Shakin' Espresso

Um, Starbucks dupe, anyone?! Dunkin's version of the famed Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso looks like it follows a very similar recipe to the Starbies way: espresso (shaken until frothy), brown sugar syrup, and oat milk. I can't wait to try this one and see how it measures up to my routine Starbucks order. It even got a co-sign from Sabrina Carpenter.

Dunkin'

Brown Sugar Oat Iced Matcha Latte

Dunkin' will offer two new in-app exclusive drinks this season, the first being the Brown Sugar Oat Iced Matcha Latte. It's like your average iced matcha latte, amped up with some brown sugar syrup and oat milk. Yum.

@snackolator

Raspberry Lava Cake Coffee

The second in-app exclusive drink on theDunkin' winter menu is the Raspberry Lava Cake Coffee, which features a dose of Lava Cake Swirl alongside a raspberry flavor shot and cream. You'll be able to order this one hot or iced.

Food On The Dunkin' Winter Menu

@snackolator

NEW! Whoopie Pie Specialty Donut

Now, onto the good stuff. The Whoopie Pie Specialty Donut features a halved glazed chocolate cake donut that's filled with vanilla whipped buttercreme icing and topped with a cute lil' buttercreme rosette.

Dunkin'

Iced Lemon Loaf Cake

Okay, yet another Starbucks similarity! This zesty-sweet snack returns on December 31. Dunkin's Iced Lemon Loaf Cake is moist as can be, and is topped with a thick layer of lemon icing.

More Dunkin' Menu Items To Come In 2025

Dunkin'

Dunkin' Valentine's Donuts

Speculation around the Dunkin' winter menu for 2025 also dropped some hints about the chain's Valentine's Day offerings.

According to the buzz, the Brownie Batter (pictured above) and Cupid's Choice donuts will return on January 29. What's even more exciting is that a new iteration of Dunkin's Munchkins will be available, too!

The new Valentine's Munchkins will reportedly be made from glazed chocolate donut holes coated in Valentine's-esque sprinkles. I'm craving them already!

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This post has been updated.

If there’s any holiday where you’re encouraged to take shots, it’s New Year’s Eve. But, that doesn’t mean you should limit your NYE party beverages to champagne. These sparkly, glittery and all-around enticing shots are sure to please and won’t induce any bad-idea hangovers from too manytequila drinks. You can let your resolution ideas start when the calendar reads 2025. Meanwhile, cheers to enjoying these shots you’ll actually want to make (and take) this New Year’s Eve.

The 14 Best New Year's Eve Shots To Throw Back For 2025!

Brit + Co

Apple Cider Shooter

That caramel vodka you bought on a whim once can finally be put to good use with this spiked apple cider shooter. Whip it up as a shot or a large punch that will last all night long. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Root Beer Float Shooter

This soda shop classic gets an adult upgrade with ROOT, a traditional alcoholic Native American tea. And tea is healthy, right? ;) (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Rainbow Shots

Meet your new party trick! All five of these shots come out of one shaker. Prepare to amaze your guests with your bartending skills this NYE. (via Brit + Co)

Sprinkle Bakes

Champagne Chantilly Shooters

Be sure to add these cake-inspired shooters to your after-holiday to-do list to start 2016 with a little bit of deliciousness. (via Sprinkle Bakes)

Feast + West

Champagne Jell-O Shots

Turn your champagne into a shot! If you’re hosting a large party, these are a way more affordable option than a case of champagne. (via Feast + West)

Dine and Dish

Blackberry Gin Shooters

This shooter is *almost* too pretty to drink. Plus, we can all pretend that the blackberries are doing you some good. (via Dine and Dish)

A Year of Cocktails

Butternut Rum Lifesaver

A shot that tastes like candy is a sweet way to start your year off right. (via A Year of Cocktails)

Holly's Cheat Day

Tipsy Spritzer Shots

Not every shot needs to be super strong. If you’re looking for something you can enjoy throughout the night, this sweet, bubbly and tart “spritzer” shot is low in alcohol content and big on flavor. (via Holly’s Cheat Day)

Bubbly Nation Creations

Sparkling Jello Jigglers

Swap out champagne for the grape juice in this recipe to make a fancy, adult version of a JELL-O jiggler. Sprinkles and edible gold stars required. (via Bubbly Nation Creations)

Broma Bakery

Champagne Jello Shots

Awww, Jello Shots are all grown up in this festive recipe. They have a nice flavor that won’t leave you wincing afterwards. (via Broma Bakery)

The First Year

White Chocolate Champagne Cheesecake Shooters

This shot is delicious enough to be dessert. Top yours with edible glitter sprinkles to get even more festive. (via The First Year)

Cookin' Canuck

Cranberry Kamikaze Shots

NYE calls for a fancier drink than a go-to beer or wine. Ring in the new year with cranberry kamikaze shots that look pretty and taste delicious (via Cookin' Canuck)

Tablespoon

Banana Split Shooters

This shot requires five ingredients that'll send your taste buds soaring. I mean, what could be better than taking a shot of something that tastes like dessert? (via Tablespoon)

Something Swanky

Sparkling Cider Jello Shots (Non-Alcoholic)

If you want to be extra careful not to induce a hangover when you wake up in 2024, your best bet are these sparkling cider jello shots. They're made with unflavored gelatin, distilled water, cider and your choice of berries, cherries, or gummies! (via Something Swanky)

Looking for more NYE recipe or drink ideas? Check out Brit + Co on Pinterest and check out our New Year's Eve dinner ideas for more inspiration.This post has been updated.