The perfect veneer. The Stepford wife. The trophy husband. Those smiling couples with white, straight teeth and adorable children, high-powered jobs and a big house in the suburbs. The ones who spend every day in idyllic, beautiful goodness. Aren’t they just terrible? The three couples in this week’s book club seem to have it all, but a particular series of incidents has propelled them toward the dark side. Each pair shares a terrible secret, and some even keep them hidden from each other.
The girls were reading this year — and reading a lot of romance books at that. And while you may think all romance books are some variation of sex and happily-ever-afters, there are way more different types of stories you can read, from "fated mates" to "friends-to-lovers." According to Tempt's co-founder and COO, Anna Baidachnaya says there are actually six very clear trends with the romance books that everyone loved this year, too — and they may shock you! We know romantasy books reigned supreme, but they didn't have all the fun.
Keep scrolling to see which trends won the popularity contest!
The top romance trends readers kept reaching for — plus which books to read to get the best of them!
1. Fated Mates
Amazon
Baidachnaya says, "2024 was a year of shifting fantasies. At the beginning of the year, women leaned into escapism, and Fated Mates reigned supreme. These stories of love destined by fate offer reassurance and hope, a comforting reminder that some things are meant to be."
Our top picks for fated mates romance books:
The God and the Gumihoby Sophie Kim
Kim Hani may look like human, but she's harboring a secret that has ties to her mythical past. She's reformed because, well, she's full and doesn't need to eat as much as she did. Now she spends her time helping customers at a café where a grumpy god named Seokga frequently visits.
They're forced to work together when a powerful demon starts causing trouble in the town they live in and it seems their plans are destined to fail at first. However, time reveals that some things are bound by fate...even the love they develop for each other.
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A Love Song for Ricki Wilde by Tia Williams
Ricki Wilde and Ezra cross paths after the funeral heiress moves to Harlem to escape the expectations of her family. But the more the latter tries to put distance between them, the more they're drawn together. Eventually, it's revealed that Ezra's been harboring secrets that transcend time and Ricki's at the center of it all.
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Sex, Lies and Sensibility by Nikki Payne
Nora is completely shocked when she realizes her father kept secrets about the way she was conceived — and it weighs heavy on her. She's also managed to do something that's had a lasting impact on her, leaving her to depend on her sister and vice versa.
Though she and her sister have to find a way to save an inn, they realize they're in over their heads for several reasons. One happens to be Ennis "Bear" Freeman. He has low expectations of them until he senses something in Nora that stirs his passion.
It's clear something strong exists between them, but there's more to "Bear" than he's willing to share.
3. Werewolves and Shape Shifters
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"As the year moved forward, we noticed a shift in preferences. By spring, the mystical allure of Werewolves and Shape Shifters captivated audiences. These tales resonate with listeners navigating personal transformations, offering an intriguing mix of wild passion and self-discovery," says Baidachnaya.
Our top werewolves and shape shifter picks:
Brideby Ali Hazelwood
Misery Lark decided to leave behind the politics of being a Vampyre coucilman's daughter by living undetected against normal beings. However, she's unable to refuse the call to perform her duty of marrying the Weres' alpha, Lowe Moreland.
He's as uneasy about their union as she is, but the difference is Misery has her eyes on one prize that she intends to reclaim by any means necessary.
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Zodiac Rising by Katie Zhao
"A vampire, shapeshifter, mortal, and werewolf walk into a bar" isn't something you've heard before, but Zodiac Rising makes sure to introduce you to them anyway. They're an unlikely team, but none of that matters now that 12 zodiac statues are in the hands of evil.
To protect humanity and the mythical world, they'll have to band together to right the wrongs of history — that's if they can get along for five minutes.
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So Thirsty by Rachel Harrison
Sometimes all you need is a new thirst for life to help you realize how much you've been running on auto pilot. Sloane Parker's in a loveless marriage and has stopped yearning for things until a birthday trip with her best friend Naomi changes everything. They meet a group of mysterious strangers that alter Naomi's reality and show her what she's been missing.
3. Alpha Males
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"Alongside this, Alpha Males swept listeners off their feet, embodying strength, passion, and stability in uncertain times. These rugged, dominant heroes captured hearts month after month, holding their ground as perennial favorites," adds Baidachnaya.
Our top picks where alpha males really shined:
The Duke's Unexpected Love by Alexa Aston
James Jones goes from not understanding much about himself to learning he's related to the Duke of Seaton in a short amount of time. He starts adjusting to knowing who he is and finds his place in the elite society.
But then there's Sophie Grant and the seemingly bad luck that's followed her based on her dad's decisions. Things seem to change for the better when Josiah Grant, a wealthy man, comes into her life and becomes her husband. Instead of treating her as beneath him, Josiah gives her the tool to run his business.
Years later, James and Sophie meet each other which makes the former's heart go pitter patter. He doesn't care what the rest of society thinks and pursues her with brilliant fervor that generates ton of whispers.
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Failure to Match by Kyra Parsi
Determined not to fail her difficult client Jackson Sinclair, Jamie puts her all into finding him the perfect love match. He may be insanely rich and handsome, but he's insufferable. Still, she concocts the perfect plan of knowing as much about him as possible.
Things go horribly wrong when Jackson catches her and she's forced to be monitored in a way for a month. But when Jamie starts to see Jackson for who he is, it gets harder to ignore how perfect they are for each other.
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Blood of Dragonsby Penelope Barsetti
After being captured by Talon, Calista can't tell whether she should like or despise him. He's not completely evil, as there's more to him than he likes to show. Still, he's the reason for her suffering so she makes a pact with her dragon Inferno: get rid of the Death King.
When she takes up refuge with her uncle and Queen Eldinar, she signs her fate and the Death King comes to collect — except his appearance makes her realize just how much trouble she's in.
4. Enemies to Lovers
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Baidachnaya says, "Toward the end of the year, modern and relatable themes took the spotlight. Enemies to Lovers, with its tension and emotional payoff, emerged as a late-year darling, showing how rivalry can transform into irresistible romance."
Books where enemies to lovers fell in defied the odds:
The Love Interestby Victoria Walters
Liv Jones is a librarian who has huge dreams of become an romance author, but you kind of need inspiration for that. Her problem is that she doesn't have any until her brother's best friend comes to visit. Aiden Rivers is the last person she wants to be around, but what's more frustrating is how attractive he is. Ironically, he gives her all the inspiration she needs to turn her book goals into reality.
But, she can't possibly be that inspired by him, right?
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The Reason I Married Him by Meghan Quinn
Aubree Rowley's got a lot of baggage that doesn't make her the world's friendliest woman. It's surprising when she agrees to marry Wyatt Preston even though they can't stand each other. But, there's something in it for them.
This marriage grants Aubree farm land he's on while Wyatt will be able to snag the family cabin that's been promised to him.
They put on a show to make people believe they're in love, but they fall in love for real.
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Right on Cue by Falon Ballard
Emmy Harper's known for her amazing writing skills in Hollywood, but that doesn't meant she gets it right every time. Because she took so long to settle on a main character, she's been tasked to be the center of Right on Cue.
To add to her irritation, she has to work with the annoying Grayson West. He's the perfect person to cast and Emmy knows this. He's so perfect that she wonders what it would be like if they took their relationship beyond a movie set.
5. Billionaire Romance
Amazon
If You Give a Billionaire a Bride by Ann Einerson
Everly Townstead knows she shouldn't be thinking about her brother's rich best friend (Cash Stafford), especially knowing his family wants to stake their claim in. Yet, their 'marriage' trucks along despite her best attempts to pretend she doesn't feel anything for.
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Til Heist Do Us Part by Sara Desai
Simi Chopra and her crew full of thieves did the unthinkable by stealing a diamond necklace, but they had the help of Jack Danger. Their problem? They get a little to cash happy and spend their shares of money.
As it turns out, the necklace they stole belonged to the mafia and they want it back ASAP. So, Simi and everyone rush to retrieve the diamond necklace from a rival. She'll also have to try to stay focused even though she can't stop looking at Jack.
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Wild Love by Elsie Silver
Ford Grant went from being a successful billionaire to parenting a moody pre-teen, much to his dismay. To make matters worse, his best friend's sister is back.
Rosie Belmont has danger written all over her and dares to ask Ford for a job at his company. Even though he tries to ignore her, it gets harder each day until they decide to cross the lines with no care about repercussions.
Which romance trends did you love this year? Let us know on Facebook!
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11 Most (Sort Of) Controversial Celebrity Age-Gap Relationships—& They're Still Going Strong!
Dec 23, 2024
What is it about age gap relationships that are so dang perplexing? Maybe it's the idea that someone can find love in a partner that's 10 to 30 years older than them. Maybe it's wondering if it's a red flag if someone only dates people who are way younger or older than they are. Whatever it is, from Sam and Aaron Taylor Johnson to Leonardo DiCaprio and literally everyone he's dated over the past two decades, we're clearly hooked. 👀
One thing worth noting is these kind of relationships are often mind-boggling even if you do root for them. Don't believe me? Take a look at the most (sort of) controversial celebrity age-gap relationships we've seen!
Scroll down to see some controversial celebrity age gap relationships!
Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images for Mercury Studios
David Foster (75) & Katharine McPhee (40): 35 Years
I don't know if David Foster and Katharine McPhee is anyone's Roman Empire, but regardless of who's rooting for them, their 35-year age gap clearly doesn't hold them back. No, I'm not making that up. They both celebrated huge milestones this year because Katharine turned 40 while David rang in his 75th birthday with a concert.
Though they met in 2006 during the season Katharine was on American Idol, they didn't become a couple until the end of 2017. Even still, they didn't really address their relationship until their 2018 Met Gala red carpet appearance. So far the couple seems to be going strong — which is all that matters!
Amy Sussman/Getty Images
Sarah Paulson (49) & Holland Taylor (81): 31 Years
Sarah Paulson and Holland Taylor have been dating a little over a decade, but that's not what's shocking. It's the fact this couple has a 31-year gap between them. According to People, they started dating in 2015 and have been happily in love ever since.
Appearing on the SmartLess podcast earlier in May, Sarah dished about what makes their relationship work so well. She said, "Yeah, we don’t live together. That’s the secret to it. We spend plenty of time together, but we don’t live in the same house."
Jeff Spicer/Getty Images
Michael Douglas (80) & Catherine Zeta-Jones (55): 25 Years
This is a couple I've known about since I was kid and it used to baffle me until it didn't. They didn't hit it off right away, but fate decided to do what it does best when it wants two people together (via People). They're one of the first celebrity age gap relationships that have lasted since the late '90s and it's amazing to see how far they've come.
As they near their 24th year of marriage (OMG), it's clear Michael and Catherine Zeta-Jones have figured out what it takes to not only sustain their marriage, but their lives in the public eye.
Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images
Sam (57) & Aaron Taylor Johnson (34): 23 Years
Despite their 23-year age gap, Sam and Aaron Taylor Johnson have been together for 16 years. They met some time in 2008, but it didn't take long for them to get engaged and welcome their first child together. They both know others have talked about their relationship, but they've let the comments roll off their shoulders. Sam told The Times UK, "When you're solid with someone in your own love, you don't think about it."
John Phillips & Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images
Gigi Hadid (29) & Bradley Cooper (49): 20 Years
I think I can understand this celebrity age gap relationship because I actually like Gigi Hadid and Bradley Cooper. I could've never guessed they'd become a couple, but life is full of surprises! They're not ones to talk about their relationship though. I suppose that's the best way to go when you're a celebrity, but us nosy fans are intrigued by the moments we do see them in the public eye.
Daily Mailwas one of the first few outlets to report their second sighting as an alleged couple which lets me know it would be hard for them to deny they weren't together.
Image via Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images
George (63) & Amal Clooney (46): 17 Years
George and Amal Clooney are probably my second favorite couple on this list because they make absolute sense to me. They're like two missing pieces of a puzzle that found each other and are happy to fit into each other's lives. As it turns out, Mr. Clooney is ever the romantic because he's been wooing Amal from the beginning.
From their sweet introduction in 2013 to the way George planned a romantic proposal and the amazing work they continue to do with their Clooney Foundation For Justice organization, this is one of those celebrity age gap relationships that's hard to be mad about.
Roy Rochlin/Getty Images
Matthew McConaughey (55) & Camila Alves (41): 13 Years
"All right, all right, all right," it's Matthew McConaughey and Camila Alves! These two met in a way that truly makes sense for them: at a club. How many of us can say we found the love of our lives in a club full of loud music and sweaty people? This lucky couple have been together since possibly 2007 and have added three kids to their family.
Camila recently took to Instagram to celebrate Matthew's 55th birthday with a moving tribute to the actor. She wrote, "Today we celebrate you! …. Well technically we celebrated you all weekend! Hoo you bring so much Joy Matthew… but I am stopping here before I get all sentimental…! To many more sleigh street rides celebrating YOU," in the caption.
Larry Busacca/Getty Images
Beyoncé (43) & Jay-Z (54): 12 Years
Beyoncé and Jay-Zshocked the music industry when they became a couple between 1997 and 2000. It was mainly because Beyoncé was only 19 years old when they started dating (via NBC). But somehow their love has prevailed through music collaborations, cheating scandals, and a certain elevator incident that no one'll ever forget. In recent years, the couple has been riding the waves of bliss as one of the more popular celebrity age gap relationships.
Mike Coppola / Getty Images Entertainment
Blake Lively and Ryan ReynoldsBlake Lively (37) & Ryan Reynolds (48): 11 Years
I said it once and I'll say it again: the best thing Green Lantern could've done was introduce Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds to each other. They both have the same dry and high key sarcastic humor that makes people love them so much, plus they way they love each other is so d*mn adorable. Did I mention I love the way they talk about their kids?
If there's a chance they're considered controversial, put me in pop culture jail because it's hard for me to turn my nose up at them!
Frazer Harrison/Getty Images
Nick Jonas (32) & Priyanka Chopra (42): 10 Years
Last but not least, Nick Jonas and Priyanka Chopra deserve an award for having the least controversial celebrity age gap relationship. They look amazing together — look at the material — and seem to speak each other's love language in a way that's kind of sexy. They too made a Met Gala red carpet appearance together in 2017, but Priyanka said they weren't even dating. I mean, that's if you believe her Jimmy Kimmel Liveappearance!
Whether they were or weren't dating then, Nick and Priyanka didn't waste time becoming love birds in 2018. Priyanka was even featured in the Jonas Brothers' music video for "Sucker." Are you kidding me?
From then on, the couple have been enjoying marriage and being parents which seems to be the case for a lot of the featured celebrity age gap relationships!
Monica Schipper/Getty Images & Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images for Vanity Fair
Leonardo DiCaprio (50) & Vittoria Ceretti (26)
Leonardo DiCaprio is well-known for dating models in their 20's, and Vittoria Ceretti is no exception to that rule. These two have been quietly together since around May 2023, and it seems like they're still going strong. Since they've been together, there have been plenty of engagement rumors swirling, but so far there's no ring in sight for Vittoria. Leo's never quite settled down, so it'll be interesting to see how this age gap relationship pans out! Wishing them both the best of luck!
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Am I really that delusional to think reading the best romance books of the year had something to do with the deepened connection between my fiancé and I? Maybe, maybe not. What I do know is that these books sparked my imagination which led to more dates and the growth of a love language I used to cringe at — consistent physical touch.
If you love the classic romance troupes, you'll enjoy getting to know the many ways people can fall in love with these 10 books.
Here are 10 best romance books that were so spicy — & I totally fell in love with this year!
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1. How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang
How many times will I add this book to a "best of" roundup? It's hard to say, but this probably won't be the last time you hear about How to End a Love Story.
I don't want to cheapen it's plot by saying it follows the familiar enemies-to-lovers troupe because Helen Zhang and Grant Shepard's trajectory stems from a tragic situation they couldn't control. What readers will discover is they were unfairly thrust in the middle of something that requires a lot of them and have had to try to build their lives after it.
The fact they get to work together on an adaptation of one of Helen's most popular books is just the beginning of the dismantling of their rigid shells.
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2. The Paradise Problem by Christina Lauren
The Paradise Problemis the other book I'll forever champion because you couldn't tell it was written by two authors! That's right, Christina Lauren is a bestie duo that managed to craft Anna and Liam's story in a way that makes me wish I could meet them in my mind for the first time.
Unknown to them, they're both dealing with family issues. The only difference is that Anna's always know what it's liked to loved and supported by her dad while Liam's had to face a cold, calculating one. Together, they'll learn that a fake relationship can give way to something beautiful if they're able to work past the looming disaster that's waiting for them.
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3. Slow Dance by Rainbow Rowell
Rainbow Rowell created magic with Slow Dance and it has everything to do with the fact two best friends didn't realize they were in love with each other. Their names? Shiloh and Cary.
They used to be really close when they were younger, but adulthood pulled them in separate directions and things sort of fell apart. For Shiloh, being a single mother whose dreams didn't pan out the way she wanted feels particularly tough.
Still, attending a friend's wedding gives her a spark of hope and anxiety because she knows she'll see Cary again. When they do lay eyes on each other, all of their memories and unspoken words come rushing back.
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4. The Slowest Burn by Sarah Chamberlain
The Slowest Burn is the only piece of fiction that inspired me to start cooking recipes with my fiancé again this year. It's full of tasty glimpses of recipes and a little spicy romance that'll make you blush.
Ellie Wasserman and Kiernan O'Neill couldn't be more different than each other, but yet they're forced to get a little more acquainted when they get into a verbal spat during the latter's big night at the restaurant he works at. Ellie's supposed to be the ghostwriter for Kiernan's cookbook, but he has no idea what he wants to include and that aggravates Ellie because she thinks he has the privilege of not caring.
However, a weeks days together proves they've misjudged each other and things start heating up in more ways than one.
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5. Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez
Just for the Summer is another fun rom-com that I enjoyed reading for it's interesting plot. Justin and Emma find their way into each other's lives as they grapple with having back luck in the love department. They've both watched countless exes find love and happiness after dating them so they decide it's worth date each other for a while before calling it quits. The problem is that their little time on Lake Minnesota comes with a lot more than they bargained for.
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6. This Summer Will Be Different by Carley Fortune
What is it about flings that makes us think they're a good idea? I don't think we have the answers, especially Lucy and Felix. They have a great time together while she's visiting Prince Edward Island, but Felix has very close ties to Lucy's best friend. Over time, Lucy's trips to the island with her bestie Bridget become more frequent and she swears off having another intimate moment with Felix.
One day, Bridget gets a case of the wedding jitters and leaves for Toronto. Wanting to come to figure out what's going on, Lucy trails behind her. She'll have to ease her friend's fears and pretend she doesn't feel anything for the man she can't stop thinking about.
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7. Summer Romance by Annabel Monaghan
Ali Morris reminds me of everyone who's know how to help other people keep track of things while their own life is a mess. She's still grieving her mom when her marriage crumbles so she kind of gives up on life. When she decides to at least get out of the house, she meets Ethan...while wearing overalls of all things.
She's not sure what will happen, but she decides to let herself get caught up in Ethan for the summer. She's genuinely surprised when it genuinely seems like Ethan likes her and wouldn't mind having something more than a summer romance.
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8. A Novel Love Storyby Ashley Poston
Eileen Merriweather is a girl after my own heart because she loves reading romance books too. At least they keep her mind off the fact her soon-to-be-husband decided to call off their wedding during the ceremony. The one thing she has to look forward to is the book club retreat she's going to. She's filled with so much excitement until a mishap leaves her stuck in the small town of Eloraton.
It's a place she's read about before which lessens the blow of what's happened until she realizes nothing's progressed from the author's story who's no longer alive. The only person is her way is an irritatingly moody and sexy bookshop owner who doesn't want her meddling in things.
It could be that she and him are the key to putting things on the right track, if only they can get aligned on a plan.
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9. Wild Love by Elsie Silver
Ford Grant doesn't care about having his accomplishments or looks celebrated. He'd actually prefer to set up shop in Rose Hill, but his plans are interrupted when his alleged daughter finds him. So, he runs his business and tries to connect with the moody pre-teen that's become a regular part of his life. Further complicating his life is the presence of Rosie Belmont — the sister of his best friend.
He doesn't hesitate to give her a job when she asks, determined to keep things professional. However, the more he tries to create distance between them, the more she inches closer.
There's so many reasons why Ford should stay away from Rosie, but emotion keeps overriding logic.
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10. A Love Song for Ricki Wilde by Tia Williams
Tia Williams painted a lovely picture of love between two creative artists who find love in Harlem, NY. It starts with Ricki Wilde understanding she's nothing like her sisters or wealthy family in Atlanta. She'd rather pursue a more freeing experience that's not bound by so many stuffy rules and the terrible romantic picks she keeps running into.
As Ricki gets settled in Harlem, she ends up meeting Ezra and that's when time and love begin to give way to something greater than she could've ever imagined.
Don't miss out on the overall best books I read in 2024! Check out our storefront for even more good reads to pick up this year!
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I am knee deep in tinsel, hot chocolate, and holiday cheer, but as soon as I finish all the new Christmas movies coming out this holiday season (plus those December TV shows), I am tuning into these new January TV shows like I have never tuned in before. There's something about early nights and chilly weather that creates the perfect atmosphere for series that are dramatic, mysterious, and absolutely consuming. And when there's nothing else to do, why not lie in bed and binge watch!
Here are 12 new TV shows coming in January 2025 that you'll want to add to your calendar ASAP.
Lockerbie: A Search for Truth — on Peacock January 2, 2025
Graeme Hunter/SKY/Carnival
This might be a January TV show, but the story opens on December 21. It's 1988 and Pan Am Flight 103 just exploded, killing 259 passengers and crew members. Dr. Jim Swire becomes the spokesman for the UK victims, despite the fact (or maybe because) he's grappling with the loss of his daughter Flora. But the more he fights for justice, the more he sees just how convoluted the justice system really is.
Lockerbie premieres on January 2 and stars Colin Firth, Catherine McCormack, Sam Troughton, Mark Bonnar, Ardalan Esmaili, Mudar Abbara, Guy Henry, Nabil Al Raee, and Jemma Carlton.
When Calls The Heart Season 12 — On Hallmark Channel January 5, 2025
Hallmark Channel
The post-holiday blues won't get you down for long, because When Calls The Heart is returning on the 5th! Fans of the show will remember season 11 introduced Elizabeth, Nathan, and the rest of Hope Valley to the 1920s (meaning Elizabeth also got a fresh chop!). We'll have to tune in to see what challenges and excitement comes their way next.
When Calls The Heart season 12 premieres on January 5 and stars Erin Krakow, Kevin McGarry, Melissa Gilbert, Pascale Hutton, Jack Wagner, Chris McNally, Kavan Smith, and Viv Leacock.
Doc — On Fox January 7, 2025
FOX
We can never have too many medical dramas can we? Fox's newest addition to the genre follows Minneapolis Dr. Amy Elias who's chief of internal medicine — and who's dealing with eight years of memory loss thanks to a traumatic brain injury. Now she just has to navigate dealing with patients, betrayal, and divorcing her soulmate...none of which she remembers. And the craziest part is this new TV show is actually inspired by a true story!
Doc premieres on January 7 and stars Molly Parker, Omar Metwally, Jon-Michael Ecker, Anya Banerjee, Scott Wolf, Amirah Vann, and Conni Miu.
The Rookie Season 7 — on ABC January 7, 2025
ABC/Hulu/Disney
There's a lot going on in the new season of The Rookie: John Nolan is recovering from a gunshot wound, two new rookies join the team, and two incredibly dangerous prisoners are still on the loose. It's never a dull day at the LAPD.
The Rookie season 7 premieres on January 7 and stars Nathan Fillion, Mekia Cox, Alyssa Diaz, Richard T. Jones, Melissa O’Neil, Eric Winter, Jenna Dewan, Shawn Ashmore, and Lisseth Chavez.
The Traitors Season 3 — on Peacock January 9, 2025
Chris Haston/NBC
Picture this: you're trapped in a Scottish castle playing a crazy murder mystery game with a dozen of your closest friends — all for the chance to win $250 thousand. That's the plot of this reality show, hosted by Alan Cumming, and we can't wait for the third season!
The Traitors season 3 premieres January 9 and stars Alan Cumming, Wells Adams, Sam Asghari, Chanel Ayan, Bob the Drag Queen, Dolores Catania, Jeremy Collins, Robyn Dixon, Dylan Efron, Nikki Garcia, Bob Harper, Britney Haynes, "Boston" Rob Mariano, Dorinda Medley, Ciara Miller, Royal Lord Ivar Mountbatten, Danielle Reyes, Tom Sandoval, Chrishell Stause, Tony Vlachos, Carolyn Wiger, and Gabby Windey.
On Call — on Prime Video January 9, 2025
Prime Video
Pretty Little Liars fans will be happy to see Troian Bellisario onscreen again! This police drama pairs up a veteran officer with a rookie for patrols around Long Beach, California — and just like the Liars had to deal with A time and time again, this show promises to present Troian's Traci with plenty of challenges. And any fans of Freeform's Party of Five reboot will recognize Brandon Larracuente!
On Call premieres January 9 and stars Troian Bellisario, Brandon Larracuente, Lori Loughlin, Rich Ting, and Eriq La Salle.
All Creatures Great & Small Season 5 — On PBS January 12, 2025
PBS Masterpiece/BBC
If you want something cozy to keep you company amidst all the mayhem, tune into All Creatures Great & Small! The show starts out following veterinarian James Herriot in 1930s Yorkshire, but it's evolved into a multi-generational drama that's one to remember. And in season 5, our favorite characters are dealing with a whole new challenge: World War II.
All Creatures Great & Small season 5 premieres on January 12 and stars Nicholas Ralph, Samuel West, Callum Woodhouse, Anna Madeley, Rachel Shenton, Matthew Lewis, Tony Pitts, Imogene Clawson, and Patricia Hodge.
XO, Kitty Season 2 — On Netflix January 16, 2025
Netflix
We're in for another semester at KISS in Seoul, and Kitty is more than ready to date casually for once. But when she finds a letter from her mom's past, she's faced with new adventures and new relationships. This is one January TV show I can't wait to see.
XO, Kitty season 2 stars Anna Cathcart, Audrey Huynh, Sasha Bhasin, Joshua Lee, Minyeong Choi, Gia Kim, Sang Heon Lee, Anthony Keyvan, Peter Thurnwald, and Regan Aliyah.
Severance Season 2 — On Apple TV+ January 17, 2025
Apple TV+
Adam Scott running around his office, and running from his problems, in the Severance season 2 teaser trailer is the most relatable thing I've seen all day. After a full season of his work and personal lives being, well, severed, Mark is in for a lot of surprises this time around. Completely separating your career from the rest of your life might sound ideal, but this January TV show is going to show us why that's simply not the case.
Severance season 2 premieres on January 17, and stars Adam Scott, Patricia Arquette, John Turturro, Christopher Walken, Zach Cherry, Britt Lower, Tramell Tillman, Jen Tullock, Dichen Lachman, Michael Chernus, Gwendoline Christie, Bob Balaban, Merritt Wever, Alia Shawkat, Robby Benson, Stefano Carannante, Ólafur Darri Ólafsson, and John Noble.
Prime Target — On Apple TV+ January 22, 2025
Apple TV+
Okay I'm definitely not a math girl (like, I still count on my fingers sometimes), but this show definitely has my attention. It follows Edward, who is about to make a breakthrough that could get him access to every computer in the world. Now he just has to team up with a National Security Agent to make sure it doesn't fall into the wrong hands. Equal parts terrifying and intriguing.
Prime Target premieres on January 22 and stars Leo Woodall, Quintessa Swindell, Stephen Rea, David Morrissey, Martha Plimpton, Sidse Babett Knudsen, Jason Flemyng, Harry Lloyd, Ali Suliman, Fra Fee, and Joseph Mydell.
The Night Agent Season 2 — on Netflix January 23, 2025
Netflix
Oh we are so back! I put on season 1 of this spy show while making my Eras Tour outfit (shameless plug for the 'fit here) and I was so engrossed I watched the entire thing in just over a day. It's got literally everything: danger, excitement, thrills, romance. And in season 2, low-level FBI Agent Peter Sutherland is finally an official Night Agent — and he's in for a lot more than he bargained for.
The Night Agent season 2 premieres on January 23 and stars Gabriel Basso, Luciane Buchanan, Fola Evans-Akingbola, Sarah Desjardins, and Enrique Murciano.
Watson — on CBS January 26, 2025
Sergei Bachlakov/CBS
Sherlock basically raised an entire generation of Tumblr users (Superwholock, anyone?) and we're finally in for another amazing adaptation of the Sherlock Holmes books. But this time, we're following Dr. John Watson, who jumps back into medicine after Sherlock's death. And while treating mysterious medical ailments is enough for any doctor, Watson also has to deal with evidence that Moriarty is actually still alive.
Watson premieres on January 26 and stars Morris Chestnut, Eve Harlow, Peter Mark Kendall, Inga Schlingmann, Ritchie Coster, and Rochelle Aytes.
Which new TV show are you excited to see this January? It'll be here before you know it! Good thing we still have plenty of time to catch up on all those December movies.
New York City is a home and a hub for celebrities across all industries, and the glitzy appeal of Gossip Girl’s NYC is made all the more glamorous by its numerous celebrity cameos. Given that Blair and Serena run in the upper echelon of the city’s It girls, it actually makes total sense for them to be rubbing shoulders with Alexa Chung and Lady Gaga. You never know who you’re going to run into on the Upper East Side — and in Gossip Girl’s case, you may not even remember half the celebs you meet.
Over the course of six wonderfully melodramatic seasons, Gossip Girl racked up quite a stacked cast list on IMDB. From stars with recurring roles to those who pop in to play themselves for one scene, here are 17 celebrities who appeared on Gossip Girl that you probably forgot about.
Scroll down to see all the celebrity Gossip Girlcameos we're totally obsessed with!
1. William Baldwin
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Serena van der Woodsen’s got some serious daddy issues. One of Gossip Girl’s longest subplots is Serena’s search for her father, who essentially walked out on her when she was a kid. He finally appears for the first time in Season 3 Episode 19 (“Dr. Estrangeloved), where he’s played by a member of one of NYC’s royal families, William Baldwin. (In case you’re wondering, he’s Hailey Bieber’s uncle.)
2. Lady Gaga
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You probably blocked out the time Blair and Dan put on a jukebox version of Snow White at NYU given that the whole ordeal was painfully cringe. That means you probably also blocked out the fact that real-life NYU alum Lady Gaga gives a dead-eyed performance of “Bad Romance” at the end of the episode (Season 3 Episode 10, “The Last Days of Discostick”).
3. Hilary Duff
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Also included in the Season 3 NYU timeline is Hilary Duff as Olivia Burke. Olivia’s a famous actress who balances attending NYU, starring in the vampire romance franchise Endless Knights, and dating Dan. She’s basically the Gossip Girl universe’s hybrid of Kristen Stewart and Emma Watson.
4. Sebastian Stan
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Okay, there’s absolutely no way you forgot this one. Before Sebastian Stan was the MCU’s BB, he was Gossip Girl’s lesser-known CB — Carter Baizen. Stan played St. Jude’s sleaziest graduate and one of Serena’s most questionable exes from Seasons 1 through 3.
5. Karlie Kloss
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Karlie Kloss will always attend a NYFW party — even if that party only exists within Gossip Girl’s Season 4 premiere (“Belles du Jour”).
6. Armie Hammer
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Serena’s dating history includes one man whose bite may be worse than his bark. In Season 2, she starts dating a con man named Gabriel Edwards, played by Armie Hammer.
7. Cyndi Lauper
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Girls just wanna have Cyndi Lauper do a surprise performance at their eighteenth birthday party — at least, Blair Waldorf does. Lauper makes a cameo in Season 2 Episode 10 (“Bonfire of the Vanity”).
8. Tyra Banks
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Tyra Banks plays Ursula, a famous actress who Serena keeps from crashing out at a movie premiere, in Season 3 Episode 4 (“Dan de Fleurette”).
9. Clémence Poésy
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When Chuck goes to France in Season 4 and attempts to restart his life as Henry Prince, he takes Fleur Delacour — err, I mean, Clémence Poésy — along for the ride.
10. Mädchen Amick
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Sorry, Archiekins — Alice Cooper’s got her eye on a different Archibald. Riverdale star Mädchen Amick appears in Season 2 as Nate’s first foray into MILF territory.
11. Elizabeth Hurley
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Mädchen Amick walked so Elizabeth Hurley could run … Nate’s life into the ground. Hurley plays shady media mogul Diana Payne throughout Season 5.
12. Aaron Tveit
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This guest star lives rent-free in Broadway fans’ minds. Aaron Tveit, the patron saint of tenors, appears in Seasons 2 through 5 as Nate’s cousin, politician Tripp van der Bilt.
13. Alexa Chung
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In Season 6 Episode 3 (“Dirty Rotten Scandals”), Alexa Chung, the minimalist darling of the 2010s fashion blogging scene, refuses to walk the runway at Blair Waldorf’s debut fashion show.
14. Rachel Bilson & Kristen Bell
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Rachel Bilson and Kristen Bell show up in the series finale as two actresses auditioning for a role in Inside Out, the movie adaptation of Dan’s bestselling book, Inside. Bell’s voice should ring a bell — she’s the voice ofGossip Girl.
15. Tim Gunn
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Project Runway’s iconic mentor, Tim Gunn gives Jenny a little mentorship in Season 4 Episode 6 (“Easy J”).
16. Rachel Zoe
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Rachel Zoe: celebrity stylist, fashion designer, and extremely good sport. In her GG cameo in Season 4 Episode 7 (“War at the Roses”), Zoe takes a tumble and spills chocolate sauce all over her head before delivering her iconic catchphrase, “I die.” We die, too.
17. Florence Welch
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Welch’s performance of “Cosmic Love” in Season 4 Episode 14 (“Panic Roommate”) was reportedly due to her real-life friendship with Blake Lively. The actress suggested to the producers that they should use Florence’s music in the show. The producers went one step further, and we’re all the better for it.
Wonder what other celebs have appeared in your favorite TV shows? Check out these 24 Sex and the City cameos and 11 Gilmore Girls cameos you may have missed!