Drew Barrymore And Oprah Winfrey Are Teaming Up For The 74th National Book Awards

Drew Barrymore and Oprah Winfrey 74th National Book Awards

Book clubs are having their moment this year, and not just because Book Club 2 was one of this year's big summer movies. The bookworm in me loves it! Fresh on the heels of discovering new beach reads from Reese Witherspoon's Book Club, I stumbled across an awesome announcement from Oprah Winfrey's Book Club.

The wisdom-filled media maven will be delivering remarks at the 74th National Book Awards and Drew Barrymore will be hosting. Here's what we know about the powerhouse duo's involvement!

What is the National Book Awards?

The National Book Awards was created by the National Book Foundation in 1950 to honor a wide range of literary works. It's one of the country's most prestigious literary prizes! The NBF also helps connect readers to new stories thanks to their role in educational and public programs.

What's the Board of Directors saying about the 74th National Book Awards?

Image via Jamie McCarthy / Staff

Chairman and CEO David Steinberger's love for the National Book Foundation's mission — and respect for Drew and Oprah — is evident. "Throughout their careers, Drew Barrymore and Oprah Winfrey have each demonstrated their enduring belief that books have the power to change readers' lives," he told People.

He went on to share how important it is to "ensure that books have a prominent place in our culture."

When will it take place? 

The ceremony and benefit dinner are usually scheduled in November and this year's are no different. They'll take place on November 15, 2023 in New York.

Have other celebrities hosted the National Book Awards before?

They have! Names like Padma Lakshmi and Nick Offerman are on the list of prior hosts for the National Book Awards.

How have Oprah Winfrey and Drew Barrymore contributed to literature?

Image via Arturo Holmes / Staff / Getty Images

In addition to being an actress, Drew has written several books, including Rebel Homemaker: Food, Family, Life co-written with Pilar Valdes. She also launched lifestyle magazine Drew in 2021 to highlight and celebrate different aspects of life.

Oprah's familiarity with literature goes back even further. She founded her book club in 1996and was later awarded the 50th Anniversary Gold Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters at the 1999 National Book Awards.

Overall, the National Book Foundation is excited to have both women grace the ceremony with their presence. In our opinion, it's incredible to witness those who have a love for powerful and cultural storytelling collaborate with such a prestigious foundation.

How do you feel about Drew Barrymore and Oprah Winfrey being a part of the 74th National Book Awards? Let us know in the comments!

Header images via Jamie McCarthy / Staff and Arturo Holmes / Staff / Getty Images Entertainment

Glen Powell has already had the career of a lifetime, and he's just getting started. Set It Up (the ultimate rom-com), Top Gun: Maverick (the ultimate sequel), and Twisters (the ultimate summer movie) are three of my favorite films of all time, but there's one role he had in 2017 you probably never knew: Nina Dobrev's boyfriend. YUP. Before the Vampire Diaries star got engaged to Shawn White, and before Glen Powell was seen in the back of a car with Lily James, these two were an item.

Let's take a look down memory lane — back to 2017 when Glen Powell & Nina Dobrev dated!

Glen Powell and Nina Dobrev definitely matched each other's energy.

Jason Merritt/Getty Images for InStyle

Glen Powell and Nina Dobrev celebrated a Texas New Year's together in 2017, and then Glen showed up to the premiere of Nina's movie xXx: Return of Xander Cage. Not to mention the fact they were spotted at a Golden Globes afterparty together.

"They have a similar group of friends and have been seeing each other on the low for a little while," a source told E! News, while another said, "All of their friends like them together. They both feel pretty comfortable around each other."

We already know Nina is the master of costumes (see her costumes with fiancé Shawn White for reference), and for Nina's 28th birthday in 2017, she threw a La La Land-themed party, complete with themed outfits — and the iconic pose from the movie poster with Glen.

In July 2017, Glen Powell and Nina Dobrev got very cozy (and goofy) in a photo booth at Julianne Hough's wedding to Brooks Laich. Say what you want about this couple, but they definitely matched each other's energy.

The couple seemingly called it quits by the end of 2017, but have been in the same circles since! They had a great time at the 2020 InStyle and Warner Bros. Golden Globe afterparty and took a pic together at the 2022 Omega Masters. Nina and Shaun are also good friends with Miles and Keleigh Teller, and showed up to the premiere of Top Gun: Maverick in 2022 (which, of course, also stars Glen Powell).

These two are proving you really can be friends with your exes.

Did you know Glen Powell and Nina Dobrev dated? I would have loved to see Glen make a guest appearance on The Vampire Diaries...but maybe they'll work together in the future. Follow us on Instagram for more celebrity relationship news!

Tributes continue to pour in for the late Michelle Trachtenberg after she passed away on February 26, 2205 — and her former TV big sister, Sarah Michelle Gellar, just shared her own emotional post. The actresses played sisters on Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Joss Whedon's cult classic fantasy series that ran from 1997 to 2003. And now, Sarah paid tribute to her on-screen little sister with a carousel of sweet photos and an emotional Buffy reference. This is what she shared.

Here's what Sarah Michelle Gellar said about Buffy co-star, Michelle Trachtenberg:

Instagram/sarahmgellar

The post featured a slideshow of photos from Buffy, as well as snapshots of the two of them throughout their lives. Michelle was 15 years old when she joined the cast in 2000, and the carousel of photos really capture how these two grew up together the three years they were on set with each other.

Sarah captioned the post, “Michelle, listen to me. Listen. I love you. I will always love you. The hardest thing in this world, is to live in it. I will be brave. I will live… for you"

Sarah's moving words are a direct reference to her time with Michelle on Buffy. The quote comes from this emotional scene, but Sarah altered it to be about her late friend and former co-star.

Unfortunately, this loss comes on the heels of another Buffy co-star's passing — Shannen Doherty died on July 13, 2024 after battling cancer for years. Sarah's emotional tribute to Shannen was heartbreaking, starting with, "How can you possibly find the right words to sum up 30 years of friendship?"

We hope Sarah — and all of Michelle's family, friends, and fans — is able to take care of herself while she mourns this tragedy.

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Even if you're sad about all the titles leaving Netflix this month, don't worry. There are plenty of TV shows on Max to fill your queue (and your binge watch hours). And the best part is since March 1 is a Saturday, you can relax all weekend long. From new seasons to brand new premieres, these are the best TV shows coming to Max this month.

Here are the 9 best TV shows to watch in March 2025.

1. ​When No One Sees Us — Stream on Max March 7, 2025

Emilio Pereda/Max

This Spanish-language TV show takes you into "deep Spain" — and all its political and cultural criminal activity — during the country's Holy Week festivities. You'll be on the edge of your seat the whole time.

When No One Sees Us premieres March 7 and stars Maribel Verdú, Mariela Garriga, Austin Amelio, Ben Temple, and Dani Rovira.

2. T​he Righteous Gemstones season 4 — Stream on Max March 9, 2025

Jake Giles Netter/HBO

The gemstones are back for one last adventure as they prepare for the future — including a foray into Hollywood? Nothing is certain...except for the fact we're definitely going to miss this TV family.

The Righteous Gemstones premieres March 9 and stars Danny McBride, Adam Devine, John Goodman, Edi Patterson, Cassidy Freeman, Tim Baltz, Tony Cavalero, Greg Alan Williams, Skyler Gisondo, Walton Goggins, Jennifer Nettles, James DuMont, Jody Hill, Troy Hogan, Valyn Hall, Kelton DuMont, Gavin Munn, Megan Mullally, Arden Myrin, and Seann William Scott.

3. ​Spring Baking Championship Season 11 — Stream on Max March 10, 2025

Food Network

Get your baking on with this Food Network TV show, which welcomes you into The Little Shop of Spring Magic. 13 contestants, all hoping to be named Spring Baking Champion, compete for $25,000 and a Food Network Magazine feature. And they might just inspire your own baking adventures along the way!

Spring Baking Championship Season 11 premieres March 10 and is hosted by Jesse Palmer and features judges Duff Goldman, Nancy Fuller, and Kardea Brown.

4. Lockerbie: The Bombing of Pan Am 103 Season 1 — Stream on Max March 25, 2025

CNN

In 1988, the bombing of Pan Am 103 led to the deaths of 270 people. Lockerbie explores the investigation that followed the tragedy and allows the victims' family members to talk about their experiences.

Lockerbie: The Bombing of Pan Am 103 season 1 premieres March 25.

5. Paul American — Stream on Max March 27, 2025

Max

You've seen Jake and Logan Paul make YouTube videos, star in movies, and wrestle, but now they're taking on reality TV — and all the vulnerable moments we haven't seen before.

Paul American premieres March 27 and stars Jake Paul and Logan Paul.

6. The Pioneer Woman Season 38 — Stream on Max March 29, 2025

Food Network

Get ready for some delicious, filling, and comfort food recipes thanks to Ree Drummond. The best part about this TV show? She makes you feel right at home!

The Pioneer Woman season 38 premieres March 29 and is hosted by Ree Drummond.

7. The White Lotus season 3 — Stream new episodes on Max on Sundays

Max

This season of The White Lotus has introduced new characters, new drama...and a UNC vs. Duke subplot. Sign me up.

The White Lotus season 3 stars Leslie Bibb, Jason Isaacs, Michelle Monaghan, Carrie Coon, Parker Posey, Patrick Schwarzenegger and Blackpink’s Lisa Manobal.

8. One Tree Hill — Stream on Max

Warner Bros. TV

Speaking of Carolina basketball, 'tis the season for March madness, which means it's a good time to rewatch One Tree Hill. The TV show starts out as a brother & basketball rivalry and morphs into a complex relationship drama like none other.

One Tree Hill is available to stream on Max and stars Chad Michael Murray, Sophia Bush, Hilarie Burton, James Lafferty, and Bethany Joy Lenz.

9. Game of Thrones — Stream on Max

Helen Sloane/HBO

If you're in your romantasy era, then you might want to press play on this fantasy drama. It's got everything: romance, political intrigue, and so many incredible costumes.

Game of Thrones is available to stream on Max and stars Emilia Clarke, Sophie Turner, Maisie Williams, Kit Harington, Richard Madden, and Gwendoline Christie (among many others).

Check out the other Most-Anticipated TV Shows Coming In March!

In heartbreaking news, actress Michelle Trachtenberg passed away at age 39. According to PEOPLE, the Gossip Girl and Buffy star was declared deceased on February 26, 2025 by EMS. The NYPD told PEOPLE that "criminality is not suspected," however there was no public cause of death announced. Here's what we know about the tragic events.

Everything we know about Michelle Trachtenberg's devastating death:

Jemal Countess/Getty Images

On February 26, 2025, sources told the New York Post that Michelle Trachtenberg's mother found her at 1 Columbus Place at around 8:00am. PEOPLEnoted that police received a 911 call at around 8:00am, and made their way to the residential building in NYC. The NYPD said that police found Michelle (described as the "39-year-old female") to be "unconscious and unresponsive." Once EMS arrived and assessed the situation, they officially pronounced her dead at the scene.

The New York City Medical Examiner has yet to determine — or at least announce — Michelle's cause of death. According to the New York Post , the Ice Princess actress recently had a liver transplant, and sources told them she died of "natural causes." ABC News also noted that the death could be due to post-transplant complications.

NBC reported that Michelle's representative said, "It is with great sadness to confirm that Michelle Trachtenberg has passed away. The family requests privacy for their loss. There are no further details at this time."

Michelle is best known for starring in roles such as Georgina Sparks in Gossip Girl, as well as Dawn Summers in Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Other notable roles included Harriet (Harriet the Spy), Maggie (17 Again), Casey Carlyle (Ice Princess), and Jenny (Eurotrip).

Instagram/edwestwick

Former Gossip Girlcostar, Ed Westwick (Chuck Bass) posted his condolences for Michelle's passing. He wrote on Instagram, "So sad to hear of the passing of @michelletrachtenberg. Sending prayers 🙏🤍"

Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage, Gossip Girlco-creators, shared a joint statement about Michelle. "We are deeply saddened by the news of Michelle’s passing. Michelle was so funny, kind, and talented," they said. "Her portrayal of Georgina Sparks was an iconic fan favorite, and grew from a one season villain to a beloved character who returned over the course of six seasons. She was a delight to have on set and will be deeply missed. Our thoughts are with her family."

Instagram/chacecrawford

Chace Crawford (Nate Archibald, Gossip Girl) posted a moving tribute to Michelle on Instagram, too. He shared three snaps with his former costar, and captioned the post with, "Michelle was one of a kind. I remember her coming on set for the first time and just absolutely owning it. She was a force of nature and just so so unapologetically funny and magnetic.. remembering those years with a big smile. Just a terrible loss. Love you ❤️"

Gossip Girl matriarch, Kelly Rutherford (Lily van der Woodsen) also shared an image of Michelle on her Instagram story. She captioned the post with "🤍🤍🤍🕊️"

And Taylor Momsen, the ever-iconic Jenny Humphrey, shared another photo of Michelle to her Instagram story as well. She wrote on the post, "One of a kind 💔"

Instagram/alysonhannigan

Michelle's former Buffy costars also shared their sympathies for the star's death. James Marsters (Spike) told PEOPLE, "My heart is heavy today. We have lost a beautiful soul. Michelle was fiercely intelligent, howlingly funny and a very talented person. She died much too young, and leaves behind scores of people who knew and loved her."

Alyson Hannigan posted a slideshow of photos on Instagram, sharing pictures with Michelle from over the years. She wrote, "I am deeply saddened by the news of Michelle’s passing. She brought a loving energy to the set of Buffy. My thoughts are with Michelle’s family and friends."

20th Century Fox released a statement saying, "Michelle touched a generation of television fans throughout her career, including in her unforgettable role as the independent and strong-willed Dawn Summers in Buffy." (via NBC) Meanwhile, David Boreanaz (Angel) wrote on his Instagram story, "So very sad …horrible news. RIP and prayers to her and her family."

Instagram/kimcattrall

Sex and the Citystar, Kim Cattrall shared her own message on Instagram. She posted a photo of the two of them, with the caption reading, "Rest in peace sweet Michelle 💔" Kim played Michelle's skating coach in the Disney film, Ice Princess.

Rosie O'Donnell — who starred alongside Michelle in Harriet the Spy — told Us Weeklythat this is "heartbreaking." She said, "I loved her very much. She struggled the last few years. I wish I could have helped."

Michelle's Holiday for Love costar, Melissa Gilbert posted on Instagram as well. She shared a still from the movie and wrote,"Oh Michy…and we lived so close to one another…..my heart aches for your family and all those who loved you so… @michelletrachtenberg#ripsweetgirl"

Leslie Mann, Michelle's 17 Again costar, posted an image with she and Michelle to her Instagram story. She shared, "I will miss you, Michelle ❤️"

And SNL star Kenan Thompson wrote on Instagram, "Our first Nick movie star has departed us!! She was my friend and now she rests!! 🙏🏾 Check on your people!!! ❤️"

This story is still unfolding, but our hearts go out to her family, friends, and fans.

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This post has been updated with new information.

Gossip Girlstar, Michelle Trachtenberg passed away on February 26, 2025 — and Blake Lively just paid tribute to her former co-star. Since the tragic news dropped, Michelle's friends continue to pour out support and love, all sharing stories, memories, and more of the late actress. And now, Blake is joining them to honor her friend with a moving tribute on her Instagram story. This is what she had to say.

Here's what Blake Lively shared to honor her late Gossip Girlco-star, Michelle Trachtenberg:

Instagram/blakelively

Blake Lively and Michelle Trachtenberg were both 2000s teen icons in their own rights, but they shared screen time on cult favorite, Gossip Girl. Blake and Michelle played Serena van der Woodsen and Georgina Sparks, respectively, two frenemies that wreak havoc on every Upper East Side bar they stepped foot in.

In her Instagram story, Blake shared a still from their time on the show together. She wrote, "This was the first day I met Michelle. She was electricity. You knew when she entered a room because the vibration changed."

"Everything she did, she did 200%. She laughed the fullest at someone's joke, she faced authority head on when she felt something was wrong, she cared deeply about her work, she was proud to be a part of this community and industry as painful as it could be sometimes, she was fiercely loyal to her friends and brave for those she loved, she was big and bold and distinctly herself," she continued. "And she always had yummy caramel smelling lipgloss on because she didn't just want to sparkle on camera, she liked creating a nice experience for anyone in her orbit, even down to the subtle smell of her lipgloss because she cared about the sweet details."

Blake then noted that Michelle "was a kind person, through and through," — definitely the mark of a good friend.

The It Ends With Us star shared, "Time passes. You take for grated that you get the chance to see an old friend. To paraphrase, the real tragedies in life are the ones that blindside you on an idle Tuesday."

"Hold those you love and have loved dear. The world lost a deeply sensitive and good person in Michelle," she said. "May her work and her huge heart be remembered by those who were lucky enough to experience her fire."

The tribute is incredibly beautiful, to say the least. We hope all of Michelle's family, friends, and fans are taking care of themselves today and always.

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