Could Medical Marijuana Have Spared My Family from the Opioid Epidemic?

Ashley Abramson
Aug 12, 2017

They called it the gateway drug. In my adolescent mind, marijuana was no different than cocaine or heroin or angel dust (though I’m still not completely sure what that stuff was). I am a product of generation D.A.R.E., made even more insular by my Catholic schooling and reasonably sheltered upbringing. When Scruff McGruff talked, I listened: I didn’t drink before I was 21, and I’ve never smoked or taken a pill that was not prescribed to me. So when I found my mom passed out with a bong in her hand, I freaked out, shaking her until she woke up and proceeded to freak out herself. Our relationship was never the same.

Having grown up with a chronically ill mother, I spent most of my childhood witnessing her body’s little failures and, as a result, unconsciously waiting for the Big Failure, the inevitable event that would steal her from me for good. My instincts were right, but it didn’t happen until the fall after I graduated college. And it wasn’t marijuana — it was a prescription painkiller, a drug no one warned me about.

Since my mom died, opioid abuse has evolved into a full-blown epidemic, arguably the most prominent conversation in the public health news cycle. In 2015, six years after my mom’s death, 12.5 million people misused opioids, a class of drug including heroin and prescribed medicines like Oxycontin. That same year, opioids killed over 33,000 people in the US alone.

Though opioid use and abuse transcends demographics, medical literature has interesting insights on women’s relationships with prescription painkillers. For instance, between 1999 and 2010, death by prescription painkillers increased more than 400 percent among women, compared to a 237 percent growth rate among men, according to the Office on Women’s Health.

Studies also link opioid use among women to psychological and emotional distress, often brought on by a history of violence in intimate relationships or traumatic childhood events. Research has found that history of trauma was present in at least 55 percent of women who misused substances.

But like other drug abuse cases, my mom’s situation is far too nuanced to reduce to one particular event or emotion. She certainly experienced childhood trauma and emotional distress — her twin brother drowned when they were nine years old — but she also had a very real chronic illness, which is why her doctors prescribed prescription painkillers in the first place. The accompanying high may have just been a convenient cherry on top.

Dr. Eric Weintraub, Director of the Division of Drug and Alcohol Abuse at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, tells me that addiction to opioids often occurs when users seek to numb both physical and emotional pain. “Some people just don’t feel good about themselves and have a chronic dysphoria,” he said. “Then they take drugs and it takes care of their anxiety. They want to keep recreating that feeling.”

Weintraub says most addicted individuals aren’t chasing euphoria. Instead, they’re trapped in a cycle of suffering and temporary relief.

“I’ve never met someone addicted to opioids who is having a really good time,” he said. “It’s usually not irresponsible, partying people. These people are really held captive to their addictions.”

In response to the thousands of lives bound by opioid addiction, the federal government is doubling down to combat the epidemic. The FDA commissioner recently called for stronger measures in preventing opioid addiction, such as including stronger warnings on medicine labels, developing new abuse-deterrent opioids, and re-scheduling prescription painkillers to a stricter category. Still, the World Health Organization argues that pain management is a human right. Could marijuana be a safer and less addictive alternative?

The night I found my mom with the bong in her hand, she was adamant about one thing. She wasn’t using marijuana for fun. Plagued by physical pain, she was smoking to feel better.

“There is some suggestion that marijuana could be an effective alternative to prescription painkillers for some people,” Weintraub said. “It’s not always used in evidence-based ways, but marijuana has been proven to help with chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, and for nauseousness from chemotherapy. It can also help those who aren’t able to eat due to an illness like HIV or cancer.” In addition to its pain-management potential, Weintraub points out that marijuana seems to be much safer than opioids, and not addictive in the same way.

But while evidence shows marijuana can be individually effective for pain and other conditions, the verdict is still out on whether or not it could profoundly affect the opioid crisis as a whole. Dr. Keith Humphreys, an addiction researcher and psychiatry professor at Stanford University, said that although there is a link between medical marijuana legalization and lower opioid prescription rates in some states, that doesn’t necessarily imply a causal relationship. In fact, Humphreys says that the volume of US marijuana consumption has gone up 80 percent in the last decade, right alongside the opioid epidemic.

In light of the numerous other non-addictive options, Humphreys believes marijuana shouldn’t be treated as a cure-all miracle drug. “If marijuana is going to save us from opioids, how far does it have to go before it starts to have an effect? There are hundreds of non-addictive medications that can be used for pain, like Gabapentin or Ibuprofen.”

Though he believes marijuana has a place as an alternative for pain management, Weintraub admits there are inherent risks involved. Daily marijuana users can experience withdrawal, which can lead to anxiety, insomnia, and dysphoria. Those who use marijuana are more likely to be in car accidents, and individuals with predispositions to certain illnesses can experience psychotic behavior while using marijuana. There is also a link between marijuana use and the use of other illicit drugs, along with the risk of using marijuana to self-medicate, just like people do with opioids.

For this reason, Weintraub cautions against jumping ahead of the scientific research when it comes to marijuana. “There is no scientific literature to support some uses of marijuana, like treating anxiety. People should get professional help and talk about their problems,” he said. “Research shows us what’s effective and safe, and we should stick with that.”

Whether or not marijuana is likely to make a dent in the opioid crisis on a broad scale, responsible use as a safer, less-addictive remedy for certain conditions seems like a reasonable alternative to opioids. Like Weintraub said, both marijuana and opioids have their own risks, but in the midst of a problem so expansive and deep, perhaps we need to leverage the lesser of two evils.

My mom used marijuana because she saw therapeutic value in it. I might never know whether she used it to deal with her emotional or physical pain, or maybe a combination of both. And I may not ever understand the pain that led her to use marijuana or abuse opioids in the first place. What I do know is there’s an epidemic stealing parents and children from families around the country — and if there’s a better way forward, it’s time to explore it.

Do you think more research should be done on medical marijuana? Tell us @BritandCo.

(Illustrations by Rosee Canfield and Sarah Tate / Brit + Co)

Bye, PSL! The Starbucks Holiday Menu For 2024 Returns This Week

So long, pumpkin spice season: Starbucks’ holiday menu is on the way, and per menu leaks, it reportedly brings back a ton of seasonal favorites starting next week.

From a classic Peppermint Mocha to the beloved Caramel Brûlée Latte, the recent menu rumors say a new Refresher flavor, 6 unique cold foams, and 4 new bakery items are on the way as the holidays draw near – including many items we predicted! The speculated lineup is honestly wild. Starbucks teased that the holiday menu will hit stores on November 7.

If you just can’t wait to order off the Starbucks holiday menu, here’s every offering reportedly coming to your closest cafe!

When will the Starbucks holiday drinks for 2024 come out?

Starbucks

According to an Instagram post from Starbucks, new holiday drinks and snacks will come out on November 7, 2024.

Will there be holiday cups?

Starbucks

Yes, the Starbucks holiday menu will include some new holiday cup designs! You can peek at all the new designs for 2024 here.

What's missing from this year's rumored Starbucks holiday menu?

Starbucks

Per rumors around the Starbucks holiday menu, the Eggnog Latte, Toasted White Chocolate Mocha, Irish Cream Cold Brew, and Gingerbread Loaf won't be returning to cafes for 2024. We're especially sad to see the Toasted White Chocolate Mocha not included, though the official menu lineup has yet to be released!

When is Starbucks Red Cup Day 2024?

Starbucks

Though there's no official word out about Red Cup Day for 2024, our best guess – based on the Red Cup Days of years past – is it'll return mid-November. In 2023, Red Cup Day fell on November 16. In 2022, the coffee chain held the event on November 17. Both dates landed on the third Thursday of November, so we predict it to hit on November 21 for 2024. Red Cup Day is when Starbucks customers can get a free reusable red cup when they order a seasonal drink off the holiday menu.

Drinks On The Starbucks Holiday Menu 2024

@markie_devo

NEW! Cran-Merry Orange Refresher

The Starbucks holiday menu leak reported that this brand-new Refresher is packed with sweet orange, tart cranberry and warm spice. It also has cranberry inclusions and is order-able mixed with water, lemonade or coconut milk.

Starbucks

Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai

Chai is a totally underrated holiday flavor in our opinion. This iced drink is crafted with warm chai spices and creamy oat milk, then gets topped with even more frothed oat milk infused with gingerbread-flavored syrup and a sprinkling of spice.

Starbucks

Peppermint Mocha

You know it, and you love it! The Peppermint Mocha has hit Starbucks menus year after year, making it a total statement sip for the holiday season. This drink (available hot or iced) combines peppermint syrup, mocha sauce, and your milk of choice with espresso for a festive feel. It's traditionally topped with whipped cream and tasty chocolate curls.

Starbucks

Peppermint White Chocolate Mocha

Similar to the classic Peppermint Mocha, this bev swaps chocolate for white chocolate sauce.

Starbucks

Caramel Brûlée Latte

This rumored Starbucks holiday menu drink is very rich. The sweet caramel brûlée sauce totally completes the sip, along with plenty of whipped cream and crunchy lil' brûlée bits for textural variety.

Starbucks

Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte

Literally like a sugar cookie in liquid form, this super-sweet latte is handcrafted with blonde espresso (it's sweeter and lighter than Starbucks' traditional espresso shots), sugar cookie syrup, and almond milk for a little bit of a lighter effect. It's finished off with red and green sprinkles to up the seasonal vibes even more!

Starbucks

Chestnut Praline Latte

This nutty latte – rumored to return for 2024 – brings on notes of chestnut and praline, which is a nice, flavorful departure from the very expected peppermint you'll see everywhere come holiday time.

Starbucks

Salted Pecan Crunch Cold Brew

Initially introduced for fall 2024, it appears as though the Salted Pecan Crunch Cold Brew will stay on the Starbucks menu well into winter. The salted, pecan-flavored cold foam offers that classic sweet n' salty twist you'd enjoy on fall snacks like trail mix or dipped pretzels. The best part is you can now also order the cold foam in non-dairy form!

Starbucks

Holiday Cold Foams

Per the menu leak, Starbs will be bringing back four beloved holiday-flavored cold foamsand two new options for 2024. They're the perfect drink customization to add to your iced coffees and cold brews if you don't want to order an all-out holiday drink. See all the predicted flavors below:

  • NEW! Gingerbread
  • NEW! Salted Pecan
  • Peppermint Chocolate
  • Sugar Cookie
  • Chestnut Praline
  • Caramel Brûlée

Snacks On The Starbucks Holiday Menu 2024

@markie_devo

NEW! Dark Toffee Bundt

Per the menu leak, this sweet toffee-flavored bundt will be topped with holly- and berry-shaped sprinkles. How perfect for the holiday season!

@markie_devo

NEW! Turkey Sage Danish

This savory snack reportedly includes "turkey sausage with creamy béchamel sauce in a pastry." It sounds like Thanksgiving in a single treat, and we can't wait to try it!

@markie_devo

NEW! Penguin Cookie

This cutie sugar cookie is decorated like a lil' penguin bundled up for the cold.

Starbucks

Snowman Cake Pop

Starbucks' classic vanilla cake pop gets a wintry twist with an adorable snowman face – this sweet really makes us crave the holiday season!

Starbucks

Sugar Plum Cheese Danish

This cream cheese-filled danish is topped with a slightly-spiced sugar plum jam. It's been one of our go-to's over the past few holiday seasons at Starbucks!

Starbucks

Cranberry Bliss Bar

The Cranberry Bliss Bar has become an absolute staple on the Starbucks holiday menu, and for good reason! This blondie treat is smothered in a delicious cream cheese frosting and sprinkled with orange zest and dried cranberries for added seasonal enjoyment.

What People Are Saying About The Leaked Starbucks Holiday Menu

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Markie_devo (@markie_devo)

Though most commenters on @markie_devo's Starbucks holiday menu leak post seemed to be excited for the upcoming rumored menu items, some Starbs fans noticed a few things missing from the leaked lineup.

"Still missing eggnog 😢," someone noted.

"Where is the toasted white chocolate mocha 😢😢😢😢," another questioned.

"ALLLLLL these cold foams, and not the one people want: Irish Cream," one more commenter said.

"Ugh still no gingerbread loaf 😭," a disappointed user wrote. "Everything else looks bomb though!"

Despite the Eggnog Latte, Toasted White Chocolate Mocha, Irish Cream Cold Brew, and Gingerbread loaf not being part of this year's menu predictions, the holiday season is our favorite time of year at Starbucks. Many more users shared the same sentiment:

"So excited for all chestnut praline shaken espressos & cranberry bliss bars 🎄🎄🎄🎄," someone wrote.

"Oh hell yess all the chestnut praline offerings," another rejoiced.

Subscribe to our newsletter to stay posted on the latest Starbucks news, including when the official holiday menu lineup drops!

This post has been updated.

food newsstarbucksmenu leakholidaycoffeensfwfood

The One Reason 'Gilmore Girls' Is A Fall Show, According To Amy Sherman-Palladino

There's nothing more satisfying than starting your Gilmore Girls rewatch at the beginning of fall. There's just something about the crisp air paired with Amy Sherman-Palladino's quick, witty banter that just feels so right! And while you brew another pot of coffee, pile up the Lorelai-inspired junk food, and put on another episode, just know — none of this was accidental! Gilmore Girlscreator, Amy Sherman-Palladino told The Hollywood Reporterexactly why the show is so incredibly fall-coded.

The CW

Sherman-Palladino told The Hollywood Reporterthat she and her husband (co-creator Dan Sherman-Palladino) decided to take a fall trip to Connecticut right after Gilmore Girls finally sold. "We encountered that small-town feel, that feel of hayrides and pumpkin patches and hot apple cider. It almost felt ridiculous — the jaded woman that I am, I was like 'This is like central casting laid this out for us. People don't live like this,'" she said. "But they do in some places, and that creatively fed me the rest of the show. Most of the show is about Lorelai [Graham] creating this world that she and her daughter [Bledel] can both grow up in together."

I love the idea that Lorelai created this whimsical, almost storybook world for Rory for them both to grow up in. Because at the end of the day, Lorelai lived with rigidity and rules — only to leave that life as a child raising another child. So of course she would want to incorporate all the fun and fantastical things she felt like she missed out on. (BRB, sobbing)

The CW

Not only that, but fall is a very visceral season. Sherman-Palladino explained that the shift from summer to fall is "the most drastic change." She said, "It's temperature, but it's also visual, and it felt like this was the kind of place, if I was going to go through that journey, that's where I would set it. And when we shot the pilot, it was fall and it was cold and had that feeling, so it just sort of became our thing."

This means that Rory and Lorelai's constant growth and transformations throughout the show is always underscored by the shifting seasons, starting with fall from the very beginning and continued through A Year In The Life. The thematic through-line is just too good!

Leave it to our fave Amy Sherman-Palladino to cook up something that's both fun, funny, heartwarming, and incredibly on-theme down to the literal weather of it all. BRB while I continue my own rewatch and wait for Étoileto finally premiere!

Looking for more fun pop culture news? Be sure to follow us on TikTok!

entertainmentpop culture newstvtv showsgilmore girls

The Surprising Reason Tom Holland Always Googles Zendaya

If I'm completely honest, there are very few celebrity couples I care about the way I care about Tom Holland and Zendaya. Aside from the fact this couple is like a walking friends-to-lovers plotline IRL, and are both power houses on their own, these two actors and philanthropists are just unstoppable together. They also keep their relationship pretty private, so here's the latest news on it.

The Latest News On Tom Holland And Zendaya's Relationship

Image via Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney

July 2016 — Tom Holland And Zendaya Join Spider-Man: Homecoming

Tom Holland and Zendaya met and became friends when they were cast in the MCU's Spider-Man: Homecoming. Tom had already made an appearance in Captain America: Civil War, but the new Spider-Man movie was a huge deal for both Marvel fans and the couple themselves! Not only did Tom Holland and Zendaya spend time together on set, but they also hung out at the pool together during their free timeand goofed around during San Diego Comic Con.

Image via Carlos Alvarez/Getty Images

November 2016 — Tom Holland And Zendaya Are On The Cover Of The Hollywood Reporter

Tom Holland and Zendaya basically broke the internet when they graced the cover of The Hollywood Reporter's Nov. 2016 issue. The shoot was filled with plenty of classic Hollywood throwbacks, but I have always *loved* the blue dress Z wears on the cover. "Over the moon with my first cover," Tom writes on Instagram. "So grateful that I got to share it with the one and only @zendaya. Thanks mate for helping me out."

"Honored to share it with the very best...Spider-Man himself @tomholland2013," Zendaya says in her post. "Thank you for this beautiful cover @THR."

Image via Kevin Winter/Getty Images

May 7, 2017 — Tom Holland And Zendaya Attend The MTV Movie And TV Awards

At the 2017 MTV Movie And TV Awards, Tom Holland and Zendaya premiered a clip from Spider-Man: Homecoming...and Tom did a flip onstage and then asked Zendaya to homecoming.

Image via Robert Marquardt/Getty Images for Sony Pictures

July 13, 2017 — Tom Holland And Zendaya Are Reportedly Dating

In July 2017, a source seemingly confirmed what many fans had been wondering for months: that Tom Holland and Zendaya had been dating. Considering the two other sets of Spider-Man leads (Tobey Maguire and Kirsten Dunst and Emma Stone and Andrew Garfield) both dated, it felt like this was one relationship that was bound to happen.

"They started seeing each other while they were filming Spider-Man," the insider tells People. "They've been super careful to keep it private and out of the public eye but they've gone on vacations with each other and try and spend as much time as possible with one another."

"They're both really ambitious and they challenge each other — but, most importantly, they make each other crack up," says another insider. "They seem to have a really similar sense of humor and love joking around together."

Tom Holland and Zendaya actually took to Twitter (now X) to tackle the rumors. "Wait wait...my favorite is when it says we go on vacations together HA! I haven't been on a vacation in years!" Zendaya says, to which Tomreplies, "Does the press tour count[?]"

Image via Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

August 8, 2017 — Zendaya Shuts Down Dating Rumors

"We are friends," Zendaya tells Variety. "He's a great dude. He's literally one of my best friends. This past how many months we've had to do press tours together. There's very few people that will understand what that's like at 20 years old."

Image via Noam Galai/Getty Images for New York Magazine

May 8, 2018 — Tom Holland Supports Zendaya's Iconic Met Gala Appearance

Zendaya showed up to the 2018 Met Gala (which had the theme Heavenly Bodies) as Joan of Arc, and it's quickly become one of her most iconic and recognizable carpet looks. Tom loved it just as much as we did and wrote on Instagram, "All hail the queen. Killing it mate."

Image via Theo Wargo/Getty Images

July 2019 — Tom Holland And Zendaya Have A Very Chaotic Press Tour For Spider-Man: Far From Home

For Spider-Man: Far From Home in 2019, Tom Holland, Zendaya, and Jacob Batalon did dozens of junkets together, and many of the interviews have gone viral — like Tom and Jacob finally meeting their favorite Watch Mojo hostandthe cast playing games with Jimmy Kimmel. Junkets are always fun to watch, and this one is no exception!

Image via Cindy Ord/Getty Images for SiriusXM

July 2, 2021 — Tom Holland And Zendaya Are Seen Kissing

After years of denying they were dating, Tom Holland and Zendaya really and truly broke the internet when pictures of them kissing in a car showed up on social media. This was such a vital moment that I remember exactly where I was when I found out.

"THEY ARE END GAME DREAM COUPLE," one X user tweeted. "I don't know if I want to be Tom Holland to kiss Zendaya or be Zendaya to kiss Tom Holland," another user joked.

Tom Holland and Zendaya were later seen attending a friend's wedding...and sitting very close to each other.

Image via Tom Holland/Instagram

September 1, 2021 — Tom Holland And Zendaya Make Their Relationship Instagram Official

On Zendaya's 25th birthday, Tom Holland posted the sweetest picture from the Spider-Man makeup trailer on Instagram. "My MJ, have the happiest of birthdays," he says in the caption. "Gimme a call when [you're] up xxx."

Image via Michael Loccisano/Getty Images

November 17, 2021 — Tom Holland And Zendaya Open Up About Their Relationship

In an interview with GQ, Tom Holland opened up about his relationship with Zendaya and how their relationship to fame has impacted everything. "One of the downsides of our fame is that privacy isn’t really in our control anymore, and a moment that you think is between two people that love each other very much is now a moment that is shared with the entire world,” he says of their July 2 kiss. “I’ve always been really adamant to keep my private life private, because I share so much of my life with the world anyway...We sort of felt robbed of our privacy.”

“It was quite strange and weird and confusing and invasive,” Zendaya agrees. “I think loving someone is a sacred thing and a special thing and something that you want to deal with and go through and experience and enjoy amongst the two people that love each other."

“Our relationship is something that we are incredibly protective of and we want to keep as sacred as possible," Tom later told The Hollywood Reporter. "We don’t think that we owe it to anyone, it’s our thing, and it has nothing to do with our careers.”

Image via Emma McIntyre/Getty Images

December 15, 2021 — Zendaya Posts A Tribute To Tom Holland As Spider-Man

Before Spider-Man: No Way Home hit theaters, Zendaya posted a pair of photos featuring Tom in his superhero costume on set, and in a costume as a kid. "My Spider-Man," the caption reads. "I’m so proud of you, some things never change and good thing♥️." Adorable!

Image via Aurelien Meunier/Getty Images

February 22, 2022 — Tom Holland Says He'd Love To Be In Euphoria

Zendaya shattered records when she became the youngest person to win the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for Rue in Euphoria. Tom also made headlines related to Euphoria when he said he'd be interested in making a cameo in the series. "I would be in Euphoria. I think I would be a really good Maddy," he jokes during a BuzzFeed puppy interview. "I'm a big Euphoria fan. I love the show and I love season 2. I visited a lot while they were shooting it and I really, really enjoyed it...I would love to guest star or just be an extra in it. Or maybe I am and you just don't know."

Image via Momodu Mansaray/Getty Images

April 20, 2022 — Zendaya Talks About Tom Holland's Support During Euphoria

"I think it's great to have that support and love around you, because you need that," Zendaya tells Entertainment Tonightduring Euphoria's Emmy For Your Consideration event. "This isn't an easy job, so it's good to have that to free you up from it every now and then."

Images via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for TIME and Carlos Alvarez/Getty Images

June 1, 2022 — Zendaya Celebrates Tom Holland's Birthday

For Tom's 26th birthday, Zendaya posted a rare photo of her with Tom, captioning the post, "Happiest of birthdays to the one who makes me the happiest <3."

Image via Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

March 20, 2023 — Zendaya Wears A Ring With Tom Holland's Initials

I am always in favor of cute, meaningful, and minimalist jewelry, and apparently, Zendaya is too! When Zendaya's nail artist posted a video of the actress' new ballet pink manicure, fans quickly noticed the "TH" ring Z was wearing.

Image via Ethan Miller/Getty Images

April 27, 2023 — Tom Holland And Zendaya Go To An Usher Concert

2023 was the year of concerts for everyone, including celebrities! While Zendaya attended CinemaCon to promote Dune 2, she also went to an Usher concert with Tom Holland. "Childhood dreams come true, going to an @usher concert," Zendaya said on her Instagram story (via People).

Images via Frazer Harrison/Getty Images and Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

May 4, 2023 — Tom Holland And Zendaya Attend An NBA Game

Tom Holland and Zendaya had another date night in May, complete with the perfect athleisure, popcorn, and relaxed smiles.

Image via Xavi Torrent/Getty Images

January 12, 2024 — Tom Holland Confirms His Relationship With Zendaya Is Still Going Strong

After Zendaya unfollowed everyone on Instagram ahead of her new movie Challengers (Blake Lively pulled a similar move before her film A Simple Favor, as did Taylor Swift before Reputation), rumors started swirling that the pair had called it quits. When asked whether they had broken up, Tom says (via TMZ), "No, absolutely not."

Image via Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

January 14, 2024 — Tom Holland Says He Loves Watching Spider-Man: Homecoming With Zendaya

During the 2024 Critics Choice Awards, Tom Holland told Extra how much he loves rewatching his first Spider-Man movie, especially when he watches it with Z. "Zendaya and I will, every now and then, watch Spider-Man 1 and reminisce about being 19 and making those movies again," he says. "I love those movies, and I love savoring those moments, so I try not to watch them as often as I would maybe like to because it’s so special. It's such a luxury, such a gift to be able to sit down and sort of relive your youth.”

Image via Tom Holland/Instagram

January 23, 2024 — Tom Holland Shows Zendaya Some Love

Since Tom Holland and Zendaya are very private, they don't often post about their relationship on social media. But when Zendaya debuted a new look at Paris Fashion Week, Tom Holland couldn't help but post a pic of Z to his Instagram story with three heart-eye emojis. We share the same sentiment, Tom, what a coincidence!

Image via Joe Maher/Getty Images

February 15, 2023 — Tom Holland Supports Zendaya's Dune 2

The London premiere of Dune 2 was *very* eventful. Zendaya basically broke the internet by wearing a Mugler "Machinenmensch" robot suit (before changing into this chic black dress from Mugler by Casey Cadwallader), a certain actress spoiled her appearance in the movie by showing up to the carpet, and Tom Holland and Zendaya were spotted at the afterparty together. I love the care and attention Tom shows Zendaya (I, too, would be overwhelmed if I was surrounded by paparazzi like in this video of the couple), and I hope they got to unwind after a crazy night!

Image via Tom Holland/Instagram

February 21, 2024 — Tom Holland *Also* Supports Zendaya's Challengers

After the new trailer for Challengers dropped, Tom Holland shared it to his Instagram story, promising the movie looks just as good as we're hoping. "You ain't ready for this one!" he says alongside the trailer.

Image via Chung Sung-Jun/Getty Images

February 21, 2024 — Zendaya Says Tom Holland Has The Best "Rizz"

When asked who has the best "rizz" (short for charisma) in the Dune 2 cast, Zendaya immediately pivots and makes the answer more personal! "Everybody's kind of got their own [rizz]," she tells Buzzfeed. "I think someone who has beautiful charisma, not on the Dune cast, but...it works for me, is Mr. Tom Holland."

"I'm more shy and kind of quiet, so it takes a little bit more to pull me out of my shell but he's great at just talking to people and getting to know people," she continues. "He's just naturally very good at that. Or as for me, I've definitely had to pull it out of me a little bit. He's got that natural gift."

Image via Matthew Stockman/Getty Images

March 17, 2024 — Tom Holland And Zendaya Watch A Tennis Game

Ahead of Zendaya's spring movie Challengers (in which she plays a tennis pro-turned-coach opposite Mike Faist and Josh O'Connor), she watched the BNP Paribas Open Men's Final at Indian Wells Tennis Garden. Alongside Tom Holland and her assistant Darnell Appling, who she frequently calls her brother, Zendaya got comfy in a cream-colored tennis skirt, tank top, and zip-up hoodie ensemble. Spring really is here!! My favorite part of the afternoon is when Tom Holland and Zendaya sang along with Whitney Houston's "I Wanna Dance With Somebody."

Image via James Gourley/Getty Images

April 9, 2024 — Zendaya Raves About Tom Holland

In her Vogue cover story for May 2024, Zendaya talks a lot about how fame has affected both her life and Tom Holland's. “His [career] changed overnight. One day you’re a kid and you’re at the pub with your friends, and then the next day you’re Spider-Man,” she says. “I definitely watched his life kind of change in front of him. But he handled it really beautifully.”

That star power was evident in 2022, when Tom Holland and Zendaya spent the afternoon at the Louvre in Paris...and almost broke the internet. “You just kind of get used to the fact that, 'Oh, I’m also one of these art pieces you’re going to take a picture of. I just gotta be totally cool with it and just live my life,'" Zendaya continues. (She also says that when the museum let them walk around after-hours, "it was like Night at the Museum.”)

This spring, Zendaya can't wait to see Tom Holland in his London production of Romeo & Juliet: "[I] could not be more proud. I’m going to try to see as many shows as I possibly can.”

Image via Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images

April 10, 2024 — Challengers Premieres In London

Tom Holland showed up for the London premiere of Challengers, and got to support Zendaya in the sweetest way. In this video captured at the premiere, you can see Tom and Z share a hug and a kiss on the cheek during the evening. Even the smallest gesture can mean a lot during a busy night, and I love how in sync Tom Holland and Zendaya are!

The latest viral clip about Tom Holland and Zendaya also has to do with Challengers. During another Challengers press tour stop, Zendaya's overjoyed to be presented with a bouquet of gardenias. “These are my favorite flowers!” she exclaims. When asked if Tom Holland buys her flowers, she points at the camera and jokes, “I hope he's watching!”

While not every girlfriend necessarily wants a bouquet, every couple definitely has to figure out each other's love languages so they can get to know each other better — and apparently A-listers are the exact same!

Arnold Jerocki/Getty Images for LVMH x Vogue x NBC

August 31, 2024 — Zendaya And Tom Holland Match On A Day Date

After a summer starring in Romeo and Juliet, Tom Holland took a late-summer stroll with Zendaya in Calabasas, California. They also ended up wearing matching white tanks (Zendaya styled hers with trousers and ballet flats, while Tom opted for cargo-esque joggers and white sneakers) for the ultimate twinning moment.

Bero

October 15, 2024 — Tom Holland Launches A New Company With Unexpected Help From Zendaya

After going sober in 2022, Tom Holland announced on October 15 he was launching a non-alcoholic drink company called Bero. “When I got sober, I started exploring the world of non-alcoholic beers and realized there was space for me to fit in,” Tom says in an interview with Forbes. “My first year sober was really difficult, and had I had Bero, I think it would have been easier.”

“Zendaya hates beer, like, absolutely hates beer," he continues. And when she helped with the taste testing, a joke helped guide the overall brand. "She does not drink beer at all, and the first round of testing she was like, ‘Wow, these are really tasty’, and I was like, ‘Well, that's probably not a good sign.'"

And at the launch event for Bero in New York City, Tom and Zendaya wore matching shades of burgundy! Z stunned in a floor-length leather dress while Tom paired a short sleeve sweater with black trousers.

On

October 15, 2024 — Zendaya Reveals Why She'd Never Take A Dance Class With Tom Holland

While speaking to Teen Vogue for her partnership with On, Zendaya reveals she'd probably avoid dance classes with Tom Holland because "he's too good, it would piss me off," she jokes. "I would want to take someone who could be equally as bad as me."

"Kayaking, I would choose Tom because I think that, if I can remember correctly, with the kayak, you have to be in sync with the person," she continues. "And I think it would be hilarious because we are both very controlling and we both want to be in charge. So it would be funny to watch us be like, no, we're going to go this way. No, we're going to go that way. And I think it would be a good story after the fact."

October 31, 2024 — Tom Holland Reveals Googling Zendaya Eases His Anxiety

While appearing on an episode of Samah Dada’s On the Menu podcast, Tom Holland spoke about how protective he gets over Zendaya, which, if you ask me, is pretty clear after that viral video of her getting swarmed by paparazzi — and him physically getting in the middle.

“I’m not on socials, and I delete [the apps] when I’m not using [them],” he tells Samah. “So sometimes I — it’s more of a bit of an anxiety thing...I just give it a little Google, look [through] the news, and I’m like, ‘She’s good. We’re fine.'"

Keep checking back here for the latest news on Tom Holland and Zendaya's relationship, and see what Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are up to as well!

This post has been updated.

best readscelebrity relationshipsevergreenrelationshipszendayansfwcelebrity

'Outer Banks' Will End With Season 5

Outer Banks season 4 part 2 drops November 7, and theories are swirling around our favorite Pogues — is Sarah pregnant? Will JJ die? Will the group FINALLY get their hands on some treasure (and NOT lose it?). While we have a ton of questions about what's going to go down on the OBX this week, creators Josh & Jonas Pate and Shannon Burke just gave us one huge piece of news: Outer Banks season 5 will be the final season.

The season 4 finale, which Tudum reveals will be the first feature-length episode, “sets the stage for an epic fifth and final season,” the trio says. Here's everything you need to know aboutOuter Banksseason 5. Bring it on home John B.!

Will there be a 5th Outer Banks?

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Outer Banks (@obx)

Yes, we're getting a fifth and final season of Outer Banks coming to Netflix soon. While we don't have an official release date yet, we're expecting to see the last installment in 2025 or 2026.

In their official letter "to all Pogues," creators Josh & Jonas Pate and Shannon Burke explain how a photo of teenagers on a beach during a power outage inspired them to create the hit show we've all come to know and love. "From this beginning, we imagined a mystery that would lead to a five-season journey of adventure, treasure hunting, and friendship," they say in an official letter. "At the time, seven years ago, it seemed impossible that we would really get to tell the whole five season story, but here we are, at the end of our fourth season, still chopping away."

"Now, with a little sadness, but also excitement, we're putting Season Four behind us and turning to Season Five, in which we hope to bring our beloved Pogues home in the way we imagined and planned years ago," they continue. "Season Five will be our last season, and we think it will be our best yet. We hope you'll join us for one more paddle out to the surf break."

I can't wait to see Outer Banks season 5, and TBH five seasons will round out the show perfectly considering each season focuses on a different Pogue. That means season 5 will probably focus on Sarah — which totally supports those season 4 pregnancy rumors! 👀 Stay tuned for all the OBX5 info you need to know.

Here's Every Shocking Detail You Missed In Outer Banks Season 4 Part 1 in case you don't have time for a rewatch ;).

pop cultureentertainmentouter bankstv

This 'Gilmore Girls' Fave Will Guest Star In 'Shrinking' Season 2 This Week

Where the Gilmore Girls cast leads, I will follow, which includes numerous roles on shows like Étoile, The Handmaid's Tale, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, and now Shrinking. Season 2 of Harrison Ford's hit show premiered on Apple TV+ October 16, and one of our favorite GG actors is making an appearance: Kelly Bishop! She's starring as none other than Harrison's ex-wife Susan. The thought of these two onscreen together makes me giddy — talk about a power duo! Here's when Kelly Bishop will be on Shrinking season 2, and everything else you need to know about the new season.

  • Shrinking season 2 premiered on Apple TV+ October 16.
  • While season 1, which follows a therapist who begins telling clients what he really thinks after he experiences tragedy, was about grief, season 2 focuses on forgiveness.
  • Kelly Bishop will guest star as Paul's (Harrison Ford) ex-wife Susan in episode 5.

When will Kelly Bishop guest star on Shrinking season 2?

Beth Dubber/Apple/EW

Kelly Bishop will guest star as Susan in episode 5, which drops on Apple TV+ Wednesday, November 6. And thanks to Entertainment Weekly, we have a look at her character! “We always knew we were going to bring Paul’s ex-wife in because the second season was a lot about dealing with your past," creator Bill Lawrence tells EW. "And you can’t really move forward until you deal with your past."

"This season is about forgiveness," he continues. "Her arrival is a huge component because it’s tied into Paul’s family, and getting to hear, through Kelly, why he’s estranged from his daughter and what he feels guilty about was a great thing for his character."

There are two sides to every story, and let's just say I'm excited to hear Susan's side of things after hearing Paul's perspective for so long! And it looks like I wasn't the only one who could tell Kelly and Harrison are the ultimate duo. "We knew Kelly, just from having been fans, could definitely not only stand up to Paul, but even just dropping in for a few scenes, immediately feel like his equal and someone that could give as much as she got," Bill says. "Man, we love that combo of the two of them."

"This was the first time I had the pleasure of working with Harrison Ford," Kelly Bishop told EW. "I found him professional, amiable, and a delight to work with." I wouldn't expect anything less.

Where can I watch season 2 of Shrinking?

Shrinking Season 2 Release Date

New episodes of Shrinking season 2 are available to stream on Apple TV+ every Wednesday. Catch up on the first four before episode 5 drops this week!

How many episodes are there? 

Shrinking Season 2 Episodes

Shrinking season 2 will have 12 episodes total, and had a surprise two-episode premiere Tuesday, October 15. Here's when you can watch each episode:

  1. “Jimmying” on October 15
  2. “I Love Pain” on October 15
  3. "Psychological Something-ism” on October 23
  4. “Made You Look” on October 30
  5. “Honesty Era” on November 6
  6. “In a Lonely Place” on November 13
  7. “Get in the Sea” on November 20
  8. “Last Drink” on November 27
  9. “Full Grown Dude Face” on December 4
  10. “Changing Patterns” on December 11
  11. “The Drugs Don’t Work” on December 18
  12. Finale on December 25

Who's in the Shrinking season 2 cast?

Shrinking Season 2 Cast

In addition to Kelly Bishop (who's now my favorite cast member), the cast of Shrinking season 2 includes Harrison Ford, Jason Segel, Jessica Williams, Luke Tennie, Michael Urie, Christa Miller, Lukita Maxwell, and Ted McGinley.

What is Shrinking about?

Shrinking Season 2 Plot

Shrinking follows grieving therapist Jimmy, who throws policy & training out the window after his wife is killed by a drunk driver and starts to tell his clients what he really thinks. But as he makes these huge changes in people's lives, he realizes just how much his own is changing, too.

“When you pitch a show, half the time you’re dancing with sparklers and you’re not sure if you’re going to do what you said. You’re just trying to get somebody to agree to put it on TV,” Lawrence tells TV Insider. “But we pitched the first season as dealing with grief. And the second season, we pitched to these guys as forgiveness. In your head, you’re like, what does that mean? What does that look like? But I think anybody that’s a fan of the show will realize it’s not just for one person.”

And season 2, while focusing on forgiveness, also sees the fallout of Jimmy's choices — like how Grace is now in prison for pushing her abusive husband off a cliff or how Jimmy's relationship with his daughter Tia is still far from healed. Tune into the rest of Shrinking season 2 to see how that forgiveness plays out.

Check out Everything Coming To Apple TV+ In 2024 for more!