‘Search Party’ Recap: Detective Joy Is Closing in on Dory

“Denial,” the first of Search Party’s two episodes on Sunday, December 10, isn’t the show’s strongest. There’s a lot of wheel-spinning with only one really solid storyline (which I’ll get to because it’s awesome). But the second ep, titled “Hysteria,” brings back Detective Joy Hartman (Tymberlee Hall), and with her comes the show’s mojo.

First, however, we have to sit through Drew (John Reynolds) telling Dory (Alia Shawkat) about the threatening flowers he received; Portia (Meredith Hagner) cutting her mom out of her life, at the advice of her director, Elijah (Jay Duplass); Dory going to a funeral for Keith (Ron Livingston) and meeting his daughter; and Julian (Brandon Micheal Hall) being branded a woman-hating abuse-denier because he accuses Chantal (Clare McNulty) of making up her story about her abusive boyfriend and the motel. Then Mary, the woman whose campaign Julian is working for, starts to sexually harass him because she knows he can’t get a job anywhere else.

None of these story lines are terribly interesting. The Julian story line would be interesting if it pertained to the overall plot more, but as it stands, it feels like a waste of time. Yes, his female colleagues yelling at him for not believing Chantal is darkly funny, and the sexual harassment is certainly an on-the-nose plot, but it just doesn’t seem to fit in with the rest of the show, so I find myself impatiently running out the clock on those scenes so we can get back to the rest of the story.

Nothing against Hall, though. He’s great — if you aren’t watching him on ABC’s The Mayor, you should be.

The first episode of the night does have one shining star: Elliott (John Early) in rehab. And predictably, it is amazing. Elliott is being held captive with a bunch of other pseudo-Elliotts, but don’t tell him that. He all but confesses to Keith’s murder to his therapist, though in his telling of it, Keith is now a seal that they had to club to death. Oh, Elliott.

But the second episode is where the show really gets going this week. In it, Joy is back, and she knows that Dory and Drew are totally full of crap regarding Keith. Dory keeps spinning her lies about “Fat Frankie,” whom Joy doesn’t think is a real person.

There is also the sticky situation of Drew and Dory finding out who is threatening Drew. It’s his crazy neighbor, April (Phoebe Tyers), who has sussed out the situation because she can hear everything when he and Dory fight in his apartment. Ruh roh. What do you think it’ll take to shut her up?

Meanwhile, Crystal (Jessica Chaffin), girlfriend to Keith’s ex-wife Deb (Judy Reyes), inadvertently saves the day when she tells Joy she thinks she knows who Fat Frankie is. His name is Frank Medici and he’s a shady mob guy who does business in Canada.

So perhaps that will put Joy off Dory’s scent, but something tells me that probably won’t happen.

Oh, and Portia’s play debuts and she’s fantastic in it, even if her murderous rage causes Dory to freak out in the theater. And Elliott has decided he just doesn’t want to work anymore. Ever. It’s so great.

Odds and Ends

John Early is so, so great as Elliott. The scene where Elliott starts crying at lunch about how scared he is and about all the terrible things he’s done and how full of crap he is? Outstanding.

Elliott: “Working feels bad and I don’t ever want to work one more day in my entire life.”

Joy: “These hipster kids did it! They are full of sh*t and they’re hiding something. There’s, like, too many coincidences. And you know what else I noticed? That both of them are scared of me and that means something!”

(photos via TBS)

When it's time for a night in, choosing a TV show can be more difficult than choosing a popcorn topping. That's why I found the best TV shows you can watch on Hulu in February so that you can spend time actually watching (you know...instead of just scrolling). Don't worry — I found the best shows on Netflix and Max too!

Here are the best 8 TV shows you can watch on Hulu in February 2025.

1. The Kardashians Season 6 — Stream new episodes on Thursdays

Disney/Hulu

I don't think the Kardashian saga will ever end — and this season is full of big reveals and bombshells galore...like Kim's new secret boyfriend.

The Kardashians Season 6 stars Kris Jenner, Kourtney Kardashian Barker, Kim Kardashian, Khloé Kardashian, Kendall Jenner, and Kylie Jenner.

2. Paradise — Stream new episodes on Tuesdays

Brian Roedel/Disney

Three years after a tragic catastrophe killed the President of the United States, agent Xavier Collins is determined to find out the truth — no matter the cost.

Paradise stars Sterling K. Brown, James Marsden, Julianne Nicholson, Sarah Shahi, Nicole Brydon Bloom, Aliyah Mastin and Percy Daggs IV.

3. Abbott Elementary season 4 — Stream new episodes on Thursdays

Gilles Mingasson/Disney

Abbott Elementary is closing in on the 100th day of school celebration, and if we can count on anything, it's that Janine, Gregory, and the rest of our favorite teachers are in for just as much chaos as fun.

Abbott Elementary stars Quinta Brunson, Tyler James Williams, Janelle James, Chris Perfetti, Lisa Ann Walter, William Stanford Davis, and Sheryl Lee Ralph.

4. The Bachelor season 29 — Stream new episodes on Tuesdays

Disney/Matt Sayles

The Bachelor never fails to deliver juicy drama, heartbreak, and emotion — and we'll be talking about Grant Ellis' season for the rest of the year. Watch new episodes on ABC on Monday, and stream them next-day on Hulu.

The Bachelor season 29 stars Grant Ellis.

5. Devil in the Family: The Fall of Ruby Franke — Stream on Hulu February 27, 2025

Kai Pfaffenbach/Disney

This docuseries follows Ruby Franke, her 2.3 million followers, and her fall from viral influencer to her potential 30 years behind bars. And the show gives you a closer look at the real story thanks to Ruby's husband and children telling their own story.

Devil in the Family: The Fall of Ruby Franke stars Kevin Franke, Shari Franke, and Chad Franke.

6. Shoresy season 4 — Stream on Hulu February 26, 2025

Gerry Kingsley/Disney

When things begin changing for the Blueberry Bulldogs (AKA, it's summer season), Shoresy has to see what life looks like outside the hockey rink.

Shoresy season 4 stars Jared Keeso, Tasya Teles, Harlan Kytwayhat, Blair Lamora, Keilani Rose, Jonathan-Ismael Diaby, Terry Ryan, Ryan McDonell, Max Bouffard, Andrew Antsanen, Jon Mirasty, Brandon Nolan, Keegan Long, and Bourke Cazabon.

7. High Potential — Stream on Hulu

Carlos Lopez-Calleja/Disney

In this TV show, a single mom with a knack for solving crimes gets paired up with a detective who loves playing by the rules. What could go wrong?

High Potential stars Kaitlin Olson, Daniel Sunjata, Javicia Leslie, Deniz Akdeniz, Amirah J, Matthew Lamb, and Judy Reyes.

8. The Bear — Stream on Hulu

Chuck Hodes/FX Networks

Listen, it's always a good time to rewatch The Bear, especially as we get closer to season 4. Whether you pick the episode where Syd goes on a solo food tour or you choose the chaotic Christmas dinner (my fave), you're in for a treat.

The Bear stars Jeremy Allen White, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Lionel Boyce, Liza Colón-Zayas, Abby Elliott, Matty Matheson, Ayo Edebiri, and Will Poulter.

Check out 14 New TV Shows To Watch In February for more!

Do you love dogs yet dread the constant cleaning that comes with shedding? Countless people can relate.

But while every dog owner knows a little fur is inevitable, certain breeds are known for being lower-shedding.

Whether you suffer from allergies or just want to reduce the time you spend cleaning up hair around your living space, here are 12 low-shedding dog breeds that'll make great additions to your household (without the mess).

Scroll to find out the best low-shedding dog breeds!

1. Poodles

Goochie Poochie Grooming

Poodles are known for their hypoallergenic coats, so they shed very little and are ideal for anyone seeking a low-shedding pet.

This breed also comes in three sizes, the Standard, Miniature, and Toy, and is easy to train due to its high intelligence. Just keep in mind that, regardless of their size, all Poodles require regular grooming to keep their curly coats free from mats and tangles.

2. Bichon Frise

RDNE Stock project

Just like the Poodle, the Bichon Frise is another breed that features a hypoallergenic coat. These dogs are tiny, cheerful, and popular due to their friendly nature.

Plus, they're known for being very smart and trainable, making them great family pets that keep clean up around the house to a minimum.

3. Labradoodle

ten Brinke photography

Originally bred as a hypoallergenic service dog, the Labradoodle is a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle.

These dogs inherited low-shedding coats, thanks to Poodle parents, and are favored for their friendly and affectionate nature. They thrive when given plenty of exercise and early socialization.

4. Maltese

Katya Wolf

Malteses are adorably tiny and cuddly hypoallergenic dogs prized for their silky white coats. They make playful and loving companions, but owners have to stay on top of their grooming routine.

If you prefer that your Maltese has a longer coat, regular maintenance is important to prevent any mats. Otherwise, keeping a shorter "puppy" cut can make grooming much easier.

5. Yorkshire Terrier

JÉSHOOTS

Affectionately referred to as "Yorkies," Yorkshire Terriers are little hypoallergenic dogs with big personalities. They crave attention and are very loyal to their owners.

These pups also shed minimally and can adapt well to a range of households, from cozy apartments to spacious homes.

6. Schnauzers

Sebastian Coman Travel

You may not know that there are three Schnauzer breeds, including the Miniature Schnauzer, the Standard Schnauzer, and the Giant Schnauzer. Despite their size differences, all three are low-shedding.

Miniature Schnauzers are revered for their intelligence and typically weigh between 10 and 20 pounds. Standard Schnauzers, on the other hand, are also known for their smarts and enjoy long walks and mental stimulation. They just can weigh as much as 45 pounds.

Giant Schnauzers can reach up to 85 pounds and are some of the largest hypoallergenic dogs. To keep these pups happy, give them a lot of playtime and exercise.

7. Havanese

Paul Groom Photography Bristol

The Havanese is a little, playful breed that's popular for its charming personality and silky coat that doesn't shed much.

These furry friends adore human interaction, making them devoted companions, and are considered low-shedding. All they need is some regular grooming to keep their coat smooth and tangle-free.

8. Italian Greyhound

Alina Skazka

Italian Greyhounds are sleek and elegant, featuring short, smooth coats that barely shed. Contrary to what their graceful appearance might suggest, these dogs are also very playful, affectionate, and sensitive.

If you're searching for a sophisticated yet loving dog that doesn't require a lot of cleanup, this breed may be your perfect match.

9. Portuguese Water Dog

Julissa Helmuth

Portuguese Water Dogs were first bred to work alongside fishermen. Today, they're regaled for their energy and athleticism, making them a great option for active families.

These dogs also have hypoallergenic fur and don't shed much. If you're an outdoor enthusiast who wants to maintain a fur-free home, the Portuguese Water Dog might be the pet for you.

10. Basenji

Elina Volkova

This unique, cat-like breed is famous for its barkless nature. It actually makes a distinctive "yodel" sound!

Basenjis are very intelligent, playful, and sometimes mischievous, with a high prey drive. Additionally, they don't shed a lot, have minimal grooming requirements, and are often free from usual canine odors.

11. Shih Tzu

Edyttka Stawiarska

The Shih Tzu was initially bred as a companion pet in China and has remained a famous lap dog to this day. They love human company and usually stick to their owners' sides.

But while they're low-shedding, these dogs will still grow a long, luxurious coat that requires regular grooming. Otherwise, you can keep it trimmed shorter for easier maintenance.

12. Brussels Griffon

Mladen Šćekić

Lastly, the Brussels Griffon is a small breed with a rough coat that's non-shedding and simple to groom. That's why these dogs are stellar choices for anyone seeking a low-maintenance pet.

In terms of temperament, Brussels Griffons are smart, affectionate, sensitive, and quite cuddly.

Looking for more lifestyle advice? Be sure to sign up for our newsletter so you never miss a thing!

After Reese Witherspoon announced a new Legally Blonde TV show was coming to Prime Video, fans have been on the edge of their seats to see who would play Elle Woods. And, thanks to Reese herself, we finally have an answer, just in time for Valentine's Day. And our new Elle, Lexi Minetree, is the Legally Blonde casting announcement of our dreams.

Keep reading to see Reese Witherspoon tell Lexi Minetree she's the new Elle Woods!

Who is playing Elle Woods in Elle?

After it was announced that the Legally Blonde TV show had narrowed it down to two finalists, Lexi Minetree and Madison Wolfe, Reese Witherspoon surprised us all by posting Lexi's official casting to Instagram. "Allow me to introduce you to the new Elle Woods!" Reese says in the caption. "After watching so many incredible auditions for the new Elle prequel series on @PrimeVideo, we finally found our Elle. And today, I got to break the news myself! Meet @leximinetree 💕🌟💅🏼"

And TBH, no one is as surprised as Lexi! In the video posted to Reese's Instagram, the Big Little Lies actress welcomes Lexi (who's dress in hot pink, FYI) into a hotel room before telling her the Prime Video team had to make a difficult choice. And since Lexi had worked so hard, Reese wanted to tell her in person...that she got the role! Lexi immediately bursts into tears, which is exactly what I'd do, then calls her mom to share the good news. And even her mom admits that these two ladies sound just alike.

"Isn't it crazy?" Reese says over the phone. "When I saw her tape, I was like, 'Are we the same person? This is so weird.'"

We don't know much specific plot info about the Legally Blonde prequel series, but Reese did share that it'll give us a deeper look into Elle's teenage years. “I truly couldn’t be more excited about this series!" she says in a statement to Variety. "Fans will get to know how Elle Woods navigated her world as a teenager with her distinct personality and ingenuity, in ways that only our beloved Elle could do. What could be better than that?! Legally Blonde is back!”

What else is Lexi Minetree in?

You can see Lexi Minetree in an episode of Law and Order: SVU, as well as The Paramedic Who Stalked Me and Hot Take: Murdaugh Murders.

Are you excited to see the new Legally Blonde TV show? Let us know your thoughts on Facebook!

As much as we'd love to hear that BridgertonSeason 4 is releasing earlier than next year, we'll have to settle for as many teasers and first looks as we can get for now! Fans already know Yerin Ha will be stepping into Sophie Baek's shoes alongside Luke Thompson as Benedict, but Netflix finally released something that'll keep us satiated for a while. We can't promise much else — except these two are clearly going to make our hearts race when they're finally on-screen.

Here's the official Bridgerton Season 4 first look with Sophie & Benedict!

Liam Daniel/Netflix

Benedict's always been one of the lighthearted Bridgerton siblings, but Season 3 showed up just how, uh, free he can be. While he and Eloise did discuss their mutual feelings of wanting to explore life, it seems our loving bachelor is set on finding love in unexpected places.

Liam Daniel/Netflix

Benedict may not have fallen in love with Tilley, but it appears he's head over heels for Sophie and we think it's adorable. But, there's one glaring problem: Sophie's a maid who has plenty of secrets.

Never before have any of the Bridgerton children gotten romantically involved with someone who's in another social class, so this already sounds scandalous.

Liam Daniel/Netflix

Ah, but what will the watchful Queen Charlotte think? Remember, she was certain she was going to expose and punish Lady Whistledown before Penelope's moving speech got her to change her mind. We can only guess how she'll feel about the Bridgertons once she learns of Benedict and Sophie's forbidden romance.

In the meantime, we're already dreaming up as much as we can about this exciting season with these pictures! Oh, and did we mention there's a video too?!

Watch The 'Bridgerton' Season 4 Sneak Peak Here!

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

Seriously...season 4 can't come fast enough!!!

We can't wait to see how Benedict and Sophie's love shakes up the Ton in Season 4. We're sure Queen Charlotte and Lady Danbury will have much to discuss!

Lately, we don't have to look far for doomsday news or potential policies that make us feel like a dystopian future will soon be our reality. Although we like to joke about it, we've seen pop culture seemingly predict our current societal and political landscape via everything from episodes of the The Simpsons to the books we've read over the years, wondering how these fictitious communities could experience horrible environments at the hands of others' decisions.

Since art is often bred from very real feelings about history's patterns, we think it's time to open a few relatable books. In our eyes, unprecedented times call for reading thought-provoking work that may seem bleak, but offers hope set in motion by one person's courage in the face of oppression and fear. These are the best dystopian books you should read in 2025.

Here are 15 dystopian books to read if you're tired of doom scrolling on social media.

Amazon

Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury

Guy Montag's job as a fireman isn't like what you or I are used to. Instead of saving the lives of those affected by fires, he and his co-workers set them because it's a crime to have books in one's home. He does his job well and comes home to the passionless marriage he has with his wife Mildred, running on a mindless loop. It isn't until he meets a teenager named Clarisse that he begins seeing the world through her eyes and it makes him uncomfortable.

Underneath that discomfort is the knowledge that he's been keeping a secret all along and will have to decide which side of history he wants to be on.

Amazon

The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood

Even if you've never read the book or watched the hit TV series, chances are you've heard about The Handmaid's Tale. It's ruffled feathers to the point it's made it to the banned books list, but author Margaret Atwood's message is loud and clear: women's reproductive rights could become weaponized.
She begins her tale in the aftermath of a second Civil War that's dismantled "normal" America. As such, the Republic of Gilead has been set in place that's meant to remind men and women how things used to be. With men holding positions of power and fertile women being enslaved to help regrow the population comes a sordid tale of oppression and abuse.
However, one maid's memories and desire to break free from her horrible role encourages her to stage one of the biggest coups.

Amazon

The Power by Naomi Alderman

The Power places decisions in the hands of young girls who aren't typically afforded it. Readers will meet several characters like a wealthy Nigerian boy and a tough-as-nails girl, but what's shocking is what happens when something ignites teenaged girls with something powerful. If they choose, these girls can cause great harm to others or even end their lives.
It's a far cry from the idea that young girls are weak and powerless in a world that seeks to tame them.

Amazon

Chain-Gain All-Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah

Loretta Thurwar and Hamara "Hurricane Staxxx" are a part of Criminal Actional Penal Entertainment, aka CAPE, as prisoners. They've worked their way up the hierarchy of the Chain-Gain All-Stars and are the reigning champs as they fight until the death to earn freedom.

However, there's a catch: one of them will be heavily discouraged from leaving with every hardship they face. It seems greed has no bounds and will make sure to keep viewers invested.

Amazon

American War by Omar El Akkad

Sarat Chestnut was a little girl when the another Civil War occurred in the year 2074, but she was aware enough to understand the criminalization of oil. Also, she's watched half of Louisiana succumb to being under sea level. Once her father loses his life and her family's driven to Camp Patience, she surrenders to a new normal. However, there's a false underbelly of the Camp and it works its magic on Sarat.
Before long, she's become a weapon for a war that'll change the lives of everyone.

Amazon

Tender Is the Flesh by Agustina Bazterrica

What happens when to a world without animal meat? In Tender Is the Flesh, readers will face the horror of this staunch reality.
For main character Marcos, life has dealt him a set of terrible cards. He's separated from his wife and watching his father's health deplete quicker than he can blink his eyes. There's also the sickening fact that he's a part of the "Transition" that helps process specialized human meat.
Then one day it happens: he meets a woman who's supposed to be packaged for consumption and it shatters his usual resolve. The more he interacts with her, the more he wants to find a way to turn away from this horrific government project.

Amazon

Uglies by Scott Westerfeld

15-year-old Tally has been waiting to turn 16 for a long time because she's finally going to become gorgeous. Thanks to life-altering surgery, she gets to stop being looked over and will join a society where she doesn't have to work hard. But her friend Shay isn't so sure about this idyllic world and decides to escape it.
However, those in charge aren't a fan of this runaway situation and put Tally in a complicated position that'll alter her future.

Amazon

The Last Murder at the End of the Worldby Stuart Turton

The former world? Utterly destroyed.The island? A perfect paradise that's home to 125 people who have learned to peacefully coexist. They don't question their right to live off the land nor the curfew that's been set in place. The crack in their perfect situation doesn't come until they find out a popular scientist's been murdered.
This death triggers a breakdown in the security that was keeping them safe from the atmosphere that killed others once before and they don't have long to fix it. However, their memories have been erased and they're not sure who caused these scary chain of events.

Amazon

The Ferryman by Justin Cronin

The Ferryman describes what happens when another "perfect" paradise seems like it's everything but that.
On Prospera, only the privileged are allowed to enjoy glorious living. Though they enjoy the finer things in life, the staff who makes sure they're comfortable aren't granted the same opportunities. Truthfully, they're waiting for the right time to rebel against their conditions because they know the spoiled citizens of Prospera will be granted multiple chances at life.
For Proctor Bennett, his job as a ferryman is to make sure people are able to "retire" when it's time. It's a job he does without fail until a lone message makes him question the validity of the islands.

Amazon

Divergent by Veronica Roth

Beatrice Prior lives in a society that's divided into the Candon (honest), Abnegation (selfless), Dauntless (brave), Amity (peaceful), and Erudite (intelligent) factions. This helps keep society running according to the government's plans, but Beatrice is torn between remaining with the Abnegation or joining a new faction.
When she makes her choice, it sends ripples among those who know her and then there's Tris. He's harboring something that's sure to make him a target so she'll try to protect his secret while keeping her own interests at heart.

Amazon

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

North America's now known as Panem, and it's comprised of twelve districts that once rebelled again the Capitol. However, their defeat was costly and caused them to allow two kids per district to participate in "The Hunger Games." It's a known fact that they may die as a result, but nothing's happened to change this unimaginable law.

When Katniss Everdeen volunteers as tribute so her young sister doesn't have to compete, this sets forth a chain of events that prove her an unlikely winner and hero.

Amazon

Ripe by Sarah Rose Etter

Cassie's secured a job in her ideal role in Silicon Valley, but it turns into something nightmarish. She doesn't have a work-life balance and is tasked with doing borderline illegal things. She also can see the stark difference in economic classes because her job has a front row view of many displaced members of society.
Accompanying Cassie is something dark that responds to the state of her mental health. As she grapples with pregnancy and the things her job demands of her, she'll have to ask herself if the cost of success is worth it.

Amazon

The Garden by Nick Newman (February 18, 2025)

Evelyn and Lily are two sisters who've been living in a beautiful garden that no one can see behind. They don't remember what life was like prior to being near it as they've become preoccupied with making sure it flourishes. All of this changes with an unknown boy shows up in their curated world. They're not sure who he is, but his presence makes them question how they've chosen to live their lives.

Amazon

Fable for the End of the World (March 4, 2025)

Caerus is fueling the nation's debt problem among those who aren't wealthy, and it affects Inesa as well as her family. She and her brother are in charge of a taxidermy shop, but their mother's selfishness puts their lives in danger when her debt reaches an astronomical level. The only solution for this is for Inesa or her brother to be entered into the Lamb's Gauntlet where they'll be killed. The merciless killer? Melinoë.
She has no remorse as she's been trained to be heartless towards her victims. But Inesa proves to be the first "Lamb" that makes her question what she's doing. Together, they'll go on a journey that changes how they see their lives and love.

Amazon

Outlawed by Anna North

Ada and her husband were happy, but she failed to conceive a child in a town that views infertile women as evil. Though she wishes things could be different, she runs away before she can be hanged and joins the Hole in the Wall Gang. It's leader is known as the Kid who wants the world to stop harming women. But the Gang's got a plan that's not safe because creating a viable future is scary.

Still looking for the next book that'll wow you? Here's what to read next!

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