Year in Women 2018

Dec 03, 2018

Brit + Co's Year in Women 2018

2018 can perhaps best be described as an odyssey — a year marked by both great setbacks and tremendous triumphs. Amid constant change and uncertainty, women across the country and around the world have stepped up, taking measurable action to lead us into a brighter future. Whether they won or lost their respective battles, it takes a remarkable amount of courage to fight for progress and change, whether personal or social — and that’s something worth celebrating. Unquestionably, there’s still work to be done, but if this year has proven anything it’s that there’s no one more ready to accept the challenge than women.

Busy Philipps

This year, the veteran actress celebrates the release of a bestselling memoir and a brand new talk show.

It’s not easy being a best friend to over a million women on Instagram, but Busy Philipps is doing a pretty damn good job. Over the past few years, the actress has amassed an impressively dedicated following on the social media platform thanks to her passenger seat confessions, workout diaries, and bedside chats. Starting her videos with her trademark, “You guys…” Philipps embodies a down-to-earth honesty that women not only relate to, but fully bond with.

This year, Phillips found a way to take her ability to connect into a fully reimagined career. The 39-year-old actress – who has always been transparent about her struggles to find work in Hollywood – strategically shifted her professional focus. In October, she released her memoir This Will Only Hurt a Little, which became an instant New York Times bestseller. In tandem with the book’s release, she also kicked off a new late-night talk show Busy Tonight. Both ventures showcase Phillips’ trademark blend of humor and vulnerability. While it may have taken her a minute to find her footing, Philipps’ resurgence is proof that if you stay true to your own voice, success will find a way.

How to take action: Donate to or get involved with Women in Film, an organization advocating for the advancement of careers for women working in the screen industries.

Time's Up

From red carpet protests to Oprah’s iconic speech, the movement is rebuilding the foundation of Hollywood and beyond.

After a silence-shattering year of #MeToo revelations in 2017, January 2018 brought a message from more than 300 women working in film, television, and theater: Time’s Up. In a public declaration of women’s solidarity, some of Hollywood’s most sought-after actresses announced they were forming an organization, vowing to help put an end to the misogyny and sexual predation that affects not only the entertainment industry but women in almost every industry. Putting muscle behind the campaign, Time’s Up also raised $16 million for a legal defense fund aimed to help other women take on on their abusers.

Just days later, the movement manifested on the red carpet of the 75th annual Golden Globe Awards. Celebrities arrived dressed in all-black in protest of gender-based harassment and violence. To show support for the real women in the everyday fight, actresses like Emma Stone, Michelle Williams, and Meryl Streep brought notable activists as their dates to bring awareness to their work.

Later in the night, as Oprah accepted her Cecil B. DeMille award, she addressed the room with a fiery speech that would go on to set the tone for the rest of the year. In that boisterous and inspiring cadence that only Oprah can deliver, she told both the audience and the world, “For too long, women have not been heard or believed if they dare speak the truth to the power of those men. But their time is up.”

How to take action: Donate to the Time’s Up Legal Defense Fund to help further what the women of Hollywood started.

Cardi B

A platinum debut album, the arrival of a baby girl, and a secret wedding. No star is shining brighter than Cardi B.

This year Belcalis Almanzar AKA the one and only Cardi B ascended to a realm that is entirely her own. The female rapper's original slang and sense of humor quickly became a cultural phenomenon, but it's her musical accomplishments that have wowed both fans and critics alike. Coming in hot from out of nowhere, Cardi slayed the 2018 Billboard Hot 100, becoming the first solo female rapper to have a number one hit in almost 20 years and only the fifth female rapper in history to top the album charts.

Cardi even made headlines on her personal front, welcoming a baby girl Kulture Kiari Cephus with her new husband Offset (of rap trio Migos) – a pregnancy she revealed dramatically in an SNL performance. Amid the rollercoaster ride of becoming a new mother, she received heavy criticism from the public for having a baby at the peak of her career, to which she responded, "Why can't I have both? Why do I have to choose a baby or a career?"

Although she'd planned to return to work soon after giving birth for a much-anticipated tour with Bruno Mars, Cardi again went her own way, admitting that the reality of motherhood was forcing her to take time away from her career and focus on raising her babe. We have no doubt she'll be back in the spotlight when she feels ready, proving that success and motherhood are not mutually exclusive.

How to take action: Donate to or get involved with Women in Music, the industry's leading non-profit.

Women Rule the Ballot

In a pivotal election year, a record number of American women campaigned for a place in government.

After 2017 deeply affected and motivated women through inspirational and horrifying moments, we knew that 2018 would be a huge one for political ladies, but we don’t think anyone was prepared for just how big it would be.

2018 kicked off with a record number of women running for elected office — a whopping 589 in total. Months before the November’s midterm elections, pundits and newshounds forecasted an electoral “Year of the Woman,” based on the sheer volume of female candidates alone. Still, in spite of the nearly 90 percent increase in women running for US House seats compared to the 2016 elections, this year’s election results surpassed expectations.

The 2018 midterms saw historic firsts for women candidates. The first two Muslim women in US history were elected to Congress, and more women of color were elected than ever before. And a record 35 new women will be joining the 66 incumbent women in the House. Looks like women had their year in politics, after all.

How to take action: Donate to She Should Run, a non-partisan organization aiming to assist at least 250,000 women campaign for a place in government by 2030.

Lena Waithe

Sit back and watch as this Black, queer, creative visionary expands the Hollywood narrative.

Is the world ready for Lena Waithe’s version of Hollywood? Ready or not, here she comes. Waithe made history last year when she became the first Black woman to win an Emmy for Outstanding Writing in a Comedy Series.The Masters of None episode that earned her the award was a semi-autobiographical account of a young woman coming to terms with her sexuality. Out of that initial big breakthrough, Waithe went on to debut her own original TV series The Chi, which centers around Chicago’s South Side community. She’s also working on a number of other projects that place Black and LGBTQ+ women in leading roles.

Throughout her time as a public figure, Waithe has been personally very outspoken about her own identity as a Black queer woman. In a much-buzzed-about Vanity Fair cover, Waithe opened up about her role in the “Black Brilliance” movement currently disrupting Hollywood. Months later, she got real with the world yet again, this time about something seemingly mundane: her new buzz cut. Waithe told Variety, “I felt like I was holding onto a piece of femininity that would make the world feel comfortable with who I am [...] I’m here with a suit on, not a stitch of makeup, and a haircut. I feel like, ‘Why can’t I exist in the world in that way?'”

How to take action: Donate to The Blackhouse Foundation, a non-profiting working to expand opportunities for Black content creators by providing career pathways in film, television, digital and emerging platforms.

The Women of Wakanda

Powerful, independent, and proud of their culture, 'Black Panther’s' female leads are the definition of Black girl magic.

As one of the most highly anticipated films of 2018, Black Panther more than lived up to the hype. With trending hashtags like #BlackPantherSoLit and #Going2Wakanda, it was immediately obvious that the film had created a much-needed space for Black representation and pride on-screen.

Storywise, Black Panther did not disappoint – and not only because of its titular masked superhero. Instead, it was the strong women of Wakanda: Queen Ramonda, Shuri, Nakia, and Okoye who stole the show. In between wisecracks, these characters created new technological advancements, infiltrated and disbanded terrorist groups, and made peace treaties between bickering factions in their country. Fierce, strong, smart, compassionate, and beautiful, the women of Wakanda were essential to their nation’s success.

Inspired by real women in African history, Wakanda’s women hit the big screen at a moment when the real world needed to be reminded of the strength, beauty, and necessity of women – particularly Black women. Black Panther not only showcased the power and strength that is the Black woman, but set a precedent to push the film industry as a whole to better represent all women.

Serena Williams

It’s been a rollercoaster of a year for the legendary athlete and she’s navigated it all with bravery and grace.

Perhaps one of the most memorable quotes of 2018 came from Serena Williams during the US Open. During the tense second set of her losing match against Naomi Osaka, a referee openly accused Williams of breaking the rules by communicating with her coach. Her response: “I don't cheat to win; I'd rather lose.” Despite an emotional and controversial defeat, Williams still had the composure to offer Osaka her congratulations and support while she tearfully accepted her first US Open title.

But that wasn’t Serena Williams’ first show of dignity under pressure this year. During the French Open in May, Williams was criticized for rocking a skin-tight black catsuit — an outfit designed to prevent blood clots from her difficult pregnancy, which itself was documented in the HBO documentary Being Serena — in lieu of a ‘traditional’ tennis skirt. Despite the backlash, the athlete stood firm that it was a selfless statement for all "the moms out there that had a tough pregnancy and have to come back and try to be fierce, in [the] middle of everything.” Spoken like a true class act.

How to take action: Donate to the Women’s Sports Foundation, an organization founded by tennis legend Billie Jean King dedicated to creating leaders by ensuring all girls access to sports.

Emma Gonzalez’s Speech Sparks a Movement

In a viral, teary-eyed speech, the Marjory Stoneman Douglas student called “B.S.” on the nation’s precarious stance on gun control.

Just days after the Parkland school shooting tragedy, 18-year-old Emma González delivered a speech at a gun control rally in Florida that captured the entire country’s attention. As she condemned the NRA and Florida’s gun laws, it was obvious that González embodied a new force in activism. As she wiped away tears, the teen told the nation, “We are going to be the kids that you read about in textbooks.” She was right.

In the wake of the massacre, González and a group of other Parkland survivors worked to turn the horror of their experience into real change, organizing both a nationwide school walkout and the massive March for Our Lives. There, González took the stage yet again. As she stood in front of a sea of people, González remained silent for six minutes and 20 seconds: the same amount of time it took a shooter to kill 17 of her classmates — a chilling and powerful statement action that spoke louder than words.

How to take action: Donate to March for Our Lives to continue fighting for gun reform.

Hannah Gadsby

In her Netflix special 'Nannette,' Gadsby artfully redefines what comedy can be.

Before Hannah Gadsby’s comedy special Nanette hit Netflix in June, the 40-year-old performer from Tasmania was virtually unknown (to North Americans, at least). In a year when comedy’s badly-behaved men gave everyone a lot to cry about, Gadsby used her platform to make an incredibly strong case for comedians to stop using their craft to make men comfortable about their mistreatment of women.

In turns mesmerizing and gutting, Gadsby’s Nanette launches into an examination of male bad behavior that ranges from harassment to sexual assault, citing high profile examples along the way. She gets personal about her own traumatic moments, and makes clear that she doesn’t want to let women’s victimization — professionally, sexually, or violently — off the hook with a laugh.

Some detractors (particularly those of the white, straight, male variety) have remarked that Gadsby’s special was revealing but ultimately difficult to sit through. Matthew Monagle of Film School Rejectscalled it “the current heavyweight champion of conversations that may make men feel unwelcome,” adding that it “reinforces the importance of participating in conversations, even if it’s just as a listener, when your ‘welcomeness’ is not a priority.”

For many women, the best imaginable response might be a resounding: “Well, good!”

How to take action: Donate to get involved with Women in Comedy, a non-profit striving to create better representation and experiences for women and minorities in comedy.

Meghan Markle Makes Royal History

In the most talked about wedding of the year, the American actress became the first Black woman in modern history to join the British royal family.

In the midst of a turbulent year, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s royal wedding served as a beacon of light. In addition to warming the hearts of just about everyone with a pulse, the day was also a historic moment for Black representation. Markle’s marriage to Prince Harry makes her the first woman of color in modern history to become a royal (some historians believe Queen Charlotte may also have had African roots). Additionally, she’s one of the few Americans to be welcomed into Britain's favorite family.

Prior to joining the House of Windsor, Markle regularly used her platform to speak about the importance of feminism and equality and she has shown no signs of straying from that message as the Duchess of Sussex. One of her first initiatives as a royal was helping to produce and promote a charity cookbook comprised of recipes gathered by women whose families lived in Grenfell Tower, a working-class housing complex that succumbed to a massive fire in 2017. While on her tour through Australia and New Zealand, Markle also dedicated one of her first official speeches to the importance of New Zealand’s suffrage movement.

How to take action: Help make Meghan Markle’s first charitable endeavor a success and the families of the Grenfell Tower fire rebuild by purchasing Together: Our Community Cookbook.

Tammy Duckworth

This year, the junior senator became the first sitting senator to give birth while in office. She also made history again just 10 days later by bringing her baby to the Senate floor to vote.

When Illinois Senator Tammy Duckworth entered the Senate floor with her 10-day-old baby in tow, she wasn’t just bringing the newborn to meet her co-workers. She was making history.

Just a day before, the Senate unanimously voted to amend a longstanding rule which banned children from entering the Senate floor. The rule change, spearheaded by Sen. Duckworth, now allows Senators to bring children under a year old onto the Senate floor during votes. They may also breastfeed. The move allowed Sen. Duckworth to participate in the vote to confirm the next NASA administrator.

By simply giving birth to her daughter Maile, Duckworth became the first sitting US Senator to ever give birth while in office. In a statement about her daughter’s arrival she told the press, “As tough as juggling the demands of motherhood and being a Senator can be, I’m hardly alone or unique as a working parent, and my children only make me more committed to doing my job and standing up for hardworking families everywhere.”

How to take action: Donate to Catalyst, a global nonprofit working with some of the world’s most powerful CEOs and leading companies to build workplaces that work for women.

Michelle Obama's Portrait Stuns

Amy Sherald’s painting of Michelle Obama for the National Portrait Gallery is not only a modern masterpiece but a new symbol of diversity and representation.

After eight years with the Obamas in the White House, we’ve come to learn that they do things a little differently from others in Washington. Their official portraits were no exception. On a day that typically flies under the radar, both President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama arrived for the unveiling of their official portraits at the National Portrait Gallery. But as the curtains opened onto the two canvases, the event transformed from presidential routine into a historic moment in art.

While Michelle and Barack are the first African-American couple to be represented in the gallery they made the moment even more revolutionary by both choosing Black artists to depict them. Kehinde Wiley painted President Obama amidst lush greenery, depicted with his trademark composed-but-chill demeanor. Amy Sherald portrayed the former first lady as goddess-like, dressed in a flowing white gown and regal posture. Both portraits look nothing like the presidential paintings produced in years past. They’re both, well, significantly cooler.

The historical implications of the paintings were not lost on Mrs. Obama. In a speech at the event, she told the audience she was “thinking about all of the young people, particularly girls and girls of color, who, in years ahead, will come to this place and they will look up and they will see an image of someone who looks like them hanging on the wall of this great American institution.”

How to take action: Donate to the National Association of Women Artists, an organization striving to support its members through exhibitions, programs and education.

Female Olympians Shine

From Chloe Kim’s rockstar run down the half-pipe to the hockey team’s high-stakes shootout, the women in PyeongChang cleaned up at the 2018 winter games.

It’s not often that 17-year-old snowboards down a half-pipe already knowing she’s won the Olympic gold medal, but so goes the story of Chloe Kim’s first Olympic games. Enamored with her awe-inspiring talent and playful sense of humor, the world fell in love with this young superstar during the winter games. But Kim was only one of the numerous American women athletes who sparkled with medals during the 2018 Olympics.

Figure skater Mirai Nagasu sent the world spinning when she became the first woman to land a triple axel. Snowboarder Jamie Anderson was the first female snowboarder to win two gold medals. And in a nail-biting game, the women’s USA hockey team defeated Canada for the first time in 20 years – largely thanks to 20-year-old goalie Maddie Rooney blocking four of the six shots taken by Canada in the high-stakes shootout.

How to take action: Donate to the Women’s Sports Foundation, an organization founded by tennis legend Billie Jean King dedicated to creating leaders by ensuring all girls access to sports.

Dr. Christine Blasey Ford

She didn’t want the world to know her name, but in an effort to oppose Brett Kavanaugh’s Supreme Court nomination, she told her story anyway.

It seemed that, overnight, all of America knew Christine Blasey Ford’s name. The 51-year-old California professor made international headlines when she publicly accused then-Supreme Court nominee and now-Justice Brett Kavanaugh of sexually assaulting her in high school, calling out publicly that she felt he didn’t deserve a seat on the nation’s highest court.

As the world watched, she bravely recounted her experience in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee during Kavanaugh’s confirmation hearings for the SCOTUS seat. “I am here today not because I want to be. I’m terrified. I’m here because I believe it is my civic duty to tell you what happened to me while Brett Kavanaugh and I were in high school,” she began her opening statement as the room fell silent to her words.

Kavanaugh was ultimately confirmed to a lifetime appointment on the Supreme Court, but her bravery started a national conversation. During Ford’s four-hour testimony, C-SPAN opened up its phone lines to viewers, and aired calls from women who shared their own moving and emotional stories of harassment and abuse. A rally convened in solidarity with Ford outside of the courthouse, while social media platforms flooded with the hashtags #believesurvivors and #whyididntreport.

While her claims were ultimately minimally investigated, Ford’s strength served as a stark reminder that women’s voices — and their courage to come forward with their own experiences — will be the driving force in the fight to bring justice to victims of sexual assault worldwide.

How to take action:Donate to RAINN (the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network) – or do one better and learn how to get involved by volunteering, spreading the word, and fundraising.

Asian Actresses Take the Lead

Whether they were romping through Singapore or making out with Peter Kavinsky, Asian actresses enjoyed a much-overdue foray into mainstream Hollywood productions.

After decades of being relegated to sidekick and background roles, Asian actresses took center stage in a big way in 2018. August alone saw two Asian-American women play leads in critically beloved rom-coms: Lana Condor starred in Netflix's surprise hitTo All the Boys I've Loved Before (opposite the internet's boyfriend, Noah Centineo), and Constance Wu charmed the masses in the box-office smash Crazy Rich Asians, which also had the distinction of being the first modern Hollywood film with an all-Asian cast since 1993's The Joy Luck Club. And let's not forget rapper-turned-actress Awkwafina, who, after breakout roles in Crazy Rich Asians and Ocean's 8, became the first Asian woman to host SNL since Lucy Liu did it 18 years ago. Or Sandra Oh, whose performance in Killing Eve made her the first-ever woman of Asian descent to earn an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series.

Of course, Hollywood still has a long way to go in terms of representation and inclusivity. As others have pointed out, Crazy Rich Asians depicts just one slice of the Asian experience, and many voices and stories have yet to be heard. But thanks to stars like Wu, Condor, Awkwafina, and Oh — who showed new generations of Asian girls and women that, yes, you can be the hero of your own story — people are finally listening.

How to take action: Donate to the Center for Asian American Media, a nonprofit dedicated to presenting stories that convey the richness and diversity of Asian American experiences to the broadest audience possible.

Reese Witherspoon

America’s sweetheart is using her Hollywood clout to fund female-driven productions.

There's truly no slowing down this cheery Southern gal, who has now been wowing us on the silver screen for decades. In early 2018, the powerhouse kicked off the year by stepping up her activism game as a founding member of the Time’s Up movement, publicly showing her support on the Red Carpet by sporting the all-black attire with other female celebrities at the 2018 Golden Globes.

But the 42-year-old actress didn’t stop there in her fight to make the industry for women. Through her celebrated production company Hello Sunshine, Witherspoon both produced and starred in HBO’s hit series Big Little Lies, which casts five women in leading roles. She is also set to co-produce Hulu's upcoming series Little Fires Everywhere which provides a difficult yet honest narrative on the complications of motherhood.

And if that’s not enough, Witherspoon also recently kicked-off her talk show Shine on with Reese and published her first book Whiskey in a Teacup – all while continuing to grow her Southern-inspired clothing brand Draper James and monthly book club. We can’t help but wonder, is Witherspoon shaping up to be the next Oprah?

How to take action: Donate to or get involved with Women in Film, an organization advocating for the advancement of careers for women working in the screen industries.

Women Unite Against Larry Nassar

After years of predatory behavior by the former doctor, his victims formed a united front to bring an end to his abuse.

“I didn’t think I would be here today. I was scared and nervous. It wasn’t until I started watching the impact statements from the other brave survivors that I realized I, too, needed to be here,” began gymnast Aly Raisman in her testimony against her abuser, former USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar. With defiance, Raisman looked at Nassar and told him, “Larry, you do realize now that we, this group of women you so heartlessly abused over such a long period of time, are now a force and you are nothing.”

Judge Rosemarie Aquilina, who would ultimately decide Nassar’s fate and sentence, asked over 160 other women and girls who experienced Nassar’s abuse to come before a Michigan courtroom and make their voices heard and make him listen to them. One after the other, these brave women gave their testimony — some through tears, all with anger. In the end, these accusers not only took down Nassar, but also, over the following months, dozens of others within the institutions that helped prop him up.

In the end, Nassar was sentenced to 40 to 175 years in prison. Judge Aquilina had the final word. “Your decision to assault was precise, calculated, manipulative, devious, despicable,” she said as she delivered the sentence. “I just signed your death warrant.”

How to take action: Donate to RAINN (the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network) – or do one better and learn how to get involved by volunteering, spreading the word, and fundraising.

Becky Hammon

This year, Hammon became the first woman to ever interview for a head coaching position in the NBA.

Will Becky Hammon become the NBA’s first female head coach? We’re betting on it. After a 16-season WNBA career, Hammon decided it was time to step off the court. But a chance encounter with beloved San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich helped Hammon secure an unprecedented next step: a position as the first-ever female assistant coach for an NBA team.

Since accepting the job with the Spurs in 2014, Hammon has proven she’s not only diversifying the boy’s club, but she’s damn good at her job. In 2015, Hammon became the first female head coach in the NBA Summer League and led the Spurs to a Las Vegas championship. This year, Hammon received a handful of newsworthy coaching opportunities, most notably a chance to interview for a head coach position for the Milwaukee Bucks. While she was ultimately not offered the job, she is still the first woman ever to be considered for a head coaching position – and where there’s smoke there’s fire.

How to take action: Donate to the Women’s Sports Foundation, an organization founded by tennis legend Billie Jean King dedicated to creating leaders by ensuring all girls access to sports.

Beyoncé Slays Coachella

Bey’s groundbreaking performance will go down as one of the greatest live performances of all time.

Has there ever been a moment more worthy of FOMO than Beyoncé’s Coachella performance? After canceling her headlining show in 2017 due to her pregnancy, Beyoncé made good on her promise to return the following year. The veteran performer rarely disappoints on stage, but this time, Bey took things to unprecedented heights. In a 26-song set, she belted out her biggest hits – some with the help of all-star surprise guests like Jay-Z, her sister Solange, and former Destiny’s Child members Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams.

Her performance marked the first time Coachella hosted a Black female headliner in its 19-year history – and Beyoncé certainly leaned into the importance of the moment. The entire show served as a roaring tribute to Black college culture. With marching band, drumline performances, and step choreography, she showcased the HBCU experience. With her rendition of “Lift Every Song and Voice,” she honored a song that’s often referred to as the “Black national anthem.” And with readings and audio snippets, she highlighted the work and words of Black activists like Malcolm X, Nina Simone, and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. After her artistic contribution to the Black community, Beyoncé decided to also offer something more concrete: $100,000 in scholarships to historically Black colleges.

How to take action: Follow in Bey’s footsteps by donating to the National Association For Equal Opportunity in Higher Education, the non-profit umbrella organization of the nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Donna Strickland

The 55-year-old scientist became the first woman to receive the Nobel Prize in Physics since 1963.

In October, 59-year-old Donna Strickland became the third woman in 118 years to win the Nobel Prize in physics — only Marie Curie (in 1903) and Maria Goeppert-Mayer (in 1963) had previously earned the prestigious award throughout its history.

Women are notoriously underrepresented in STEM, a discrepancy that countless non-profit organizations, brand campaigns, and educational initiatives are constantly working to address. Research has even shown that women are less inclined to choose majors that would lead to STEM careers based on the gender-based discrimination evident in those fields. Because of STEM’s high-profile woman question, Strickland’s major win became major news.

But the Canadian professor would prefer not to be thought of as a “woman in science” but as, simply, “a scientist.”

“I didn’t think [gender] would be the big story,” Strickland told The Guardianweeks after her win. “I thought the big story would be the science.” One day, thanks to scientists like Strickland, it will be.

How to take action:Donate to the Association for Women in Science, a global network that inspires bold leadership, research, and solutions that advance women in STEM.

EDITORS:

Cortney Clift, Annette Cardwell, Kelli Korducki, Allison Takeda, Anjelika Temple

WRITERS:

Cortney Clift, Lindsey Graham-Jones, Kelli Korducki, Sarah Koller, Annette Cardwell, Magdalena O’Neal, Allison Takeda, Kris Stewart

DESIGN AND SITE MANAGEMENT:

Casey Callahan, Carrie Strine

MARKETING:

Ericha Richards, Kara Schab, Sarah Sheppard, Shannon Murphy

LOL, Kevin Costner Just Made The Wildest 'Yellowstone' Comment

Yellowstone season 5B is here! Twisters might have been THE summer movie of 2024, but the western vibes aren't going away, even after the Glen Powell movie has left theaters. The second half of Yellowstone season 5 returned to Paramount November 10 and it did not disappoint. 16.4 million viewers tuned into the premiere over a variety of networks — making it the most-watched season premiere in the show's history.

And it's a major season for one very specific reason: Kevin Costner isn't returning as John Dutton. The star decided to exit the series after season 5's eighth episode premiered in January 2023, but as big of a change is this is, Costner is still an executive producer on the series, giving it a familiarity fans will appreciate.

Yellowstone has always been dramatic, but in the Yellowstone season 5 first look, you can just feel the tension from fan favorites like Beth Dutton, Monica Long, and Kayce Dutton. And no wonder: the Duttons' family drama is coming to a head, and it looks like someone might not make it out alive. Read up on everything you need to know about the new season of Yellowstone, and check out why Paramount+'s New Drama Landman Is Perfect For Yellowstone Fans.

Keep reading for everything you need to know about the final season of Yellowstone.

What happened on the finale of Yellowstone?

Paramount

Yellowstone season 5 had two major themes: save the ranch and avenge John Dutton's death. And the Yellowstone finale saw both of those things happen in their own way. Kayce sells the property to High Chief Thomas Rainwater at $1.25 an acre (the price when his ancestors took it) on two conditions: his family stays in their home, and the land will never be developed or sold to anyone else.

And after John's funeral (where Beth literally tells his casket she'll avenge him), Beth runs off to Jamie's house, gets into a brutal fight, and stabs him in the heart before moving to start a peaceful (?) new life in Dillon, Montana with Rip. I guess all's well that ends well?

Is this the last season of Yellowstone?

Paramount

It's always hard to say goodbye to a beloved show, but despite reports that Yellowstone would end with season 5, it looks like we could be getting a Yellowstone season 6 after all. Deadline confirmed that negotiations are happening for a potential continuation, which would focus on Kelly Reilly's Beth and Cole Hauser's Rip.

Reilly told Entertainment Weekly ahead of the season 5 premiere that "Beth is more like a wild animal this season than ever. When I read the scripts, it made me think [that] she is, for the first time, maybe afraid she will lose it for [her dad]."

"It's dark, brutal and desperate stuff — gaining power, losing it, defending and fighting," she continues. "It's bloody and at times beautiful in how it breaks them into their core selves." The setup for a potential season 6 will totally depend on how season 5 ends — and how it affects Beth, Rip, and the rest of the family.

Is Kevin Costner in Yellowstone season 5 part 2?

Paramount

No Kevin Costner is not in the second half of Yellowstone season 5, and we find out the fate of his character John Dutton immediately. When Beth and Kayce find John dead in the bathroom, Beth immediately suspects foul play and blames it on Jamie. Well, Kevin is finally speaking on his character's end, and told The Michael Smerconish Programon November 11 that he actually didn't know the show had premiered the night before.

“I’m going to be perfectly honest. I didn’t know it was actually airing last night,” he says. “That’s a swear-to-God moment. I’ve been seeing ads with my face all over the place and I’m thinking, ‘Gee, I’m not in that one.’ But I didn’t realize yesterday was the thing...I heard it’s a suicide, so that doesn’t make me want to rush to go see it.”

But even if Kevin isn't over the moon about watching his character die, he doesn't have any bad blood with the writers. “They’re pretty smart people,” he continues. “Maybe it’s a red herring. Who knows? They’re very good. And they’ll figure that out.”

Well, the actor told Entertainment Tonight that he STILL hasn't seen the season 5 premiere as of November 17. “I didn’t watch it, so I don’t really have any thoughts about it,” he said. Due to delays from the writer's strike, and a tug-of-war between Paramount saying Kevin couldn't film new episodes and Kevin saying creator Taylor Sheridan took too long to write the scripts, the actor chose to leave the series, reportedly in part to promote his Horizon movie franchise.

“I gave this thing five seasons,” the actor told The Hollywood Reporterthis summer. “I was really happy to do it. And I don’t need drama. So, let’s just take that drama away, let’s take the guessing [away]. The fans have been way too good to me. And my obligation is to go on and continue to make things that mean something to them.”

How many episodes are in Yellowstone season 5?

Yellowstone season 5 part 2 features 6 episodes, meaning that Yellowstone season 5 will have a total of 14 episodes. Here's each episode title and release date:

Episode 1: "One Hundred Years Is Nothing" on November 13, 2022
Episode 2: "The Sting of Wisdom" on November 13, 2022
Episode 3: "Tall Drink of Water" on November 20, 2022
Episode 4: "Horses in Heaven" on November 27, 2022
Episode 5: "Watch 'Em Ride Away" on December 4, 2022
Episode 6: "Cigarettes, Whiskey, a Meadow and You" on December 11, 2022
Episode 7: "The Dream Is Not Me" on December 18, 2022
Episode 8: "A Knife and No Coin" on January 1, 2023
Episode 9: "Desire Is All You Need" on November 10, 2024
Episode 10: "The Apocalypse of Change" on November 17, 2024
Episode 11: "Three Fifty-Three" on November 24, 2024
Episode 12: "Counting Coup" On December 1, 2024
Episode 13: "Give the World Away" On December 8, 2024
Episode 14: "Life Is A Promise" On December 15, 2024

See our interviews with the 'Yellowstone' cast!

@britandco Who run the world ?! #kellyreilly #yellowstone #bethdutton #tv #tvshow #premiere #nyc #newyork ♬ original sound - Brit + Co

Wendy Moniz spilled on working with everyone's favorite lady Kelly Reilly (Beth Dutton).

@britandco John Emmet Tracy told us all about filming the final season of #Yellowstone 🐴 #johnemmettracy #ellissteele #nyc #redcarpet #premiere #newyork #newyorkcity #fyp ♬ original sound - Brit + Co

While John Emmet Tracy gave us the best advice for dealing with crazy families during the holidays!

@britandco You’re welcome 😌 #yellowstone #cowboy #cowboyboots #fashion #premiere #fyp #ianbohen ♬ original sound - Brit + Co

And we couldn't pass up the opportunity to ask Ian Bohen the best way to take off cowboy boots ;).

What is Yellowstone season 5 about?

Paramount

Yellowstone Season 5 Plot

The series introduced us to the Duttons, a powerful family in charge of America's biggest contiguous cattle ranch. Every season has been gritty and powerful, and in the fifth season, we've seen John become Montana's governor and make Beth his chief of staff. But with Jamie trying to take the power away from his dad, the Duttons are fighting each other like we've never seen — especially when Jamie and Beth start considering how to get away with murder.

Luke Grimes recently told Entertainment Weekly how pleased he is with the finale, and Kelly Reilly revealed creator Taylor Sheridan actually told her the ending to the series while they filmed season 1.

“I read the last episode the day before we started filming,” Luke says. “I couldn't be happier. I think it's a perfect ending for the show for every character. It's just a testament to what a good writer Taylor is, and it's a very, very profound, beautiful ending. I can't wait to sit down and watch it one day.”

Is Yellowstone season 5 part 2 out yet?

Paramount

Yellowstone Season 5 Part 2 Release Date

Yes, Yellowstone season 5 part 2 premiered on Paramount November 10, 2024. You can watch new episodes every Sunday.

The series filmed in Montana during the summer of 2024.

Who's in the cast of Yellowstone season 5?

Paramount

Yellowstone Season 5 Cast

The cast of Yellowstone season 5 includes Kelly Reilly, Wes Bentley, Luke Grimes, Kelsey Asbille, Brecken Merrill, Finn Little, Cole Hauser, Gil Birmingham, Wendy Moniz, Mo Brings Plenty, and Bella Hadid.

Where can I watch season 5 part 1 of Yellowstone?

Paramount

The first half of Yellowstone season 5 is now streaming on Peacock.

Are you excited for Yellowstone season 5 part 2? Read up on The First Cast Member For Yellowstone's 2024 Spinoff, The Madison for more about our new favorite universe.

This post has been updated.

Ethan Slater's Ex-Wife Lilly Jay Just Opened Up About Their "Sudden" Divorce (& Ariana Grande)

Usually there's two sides to every breakup, but clinical psychologist Dr. Lilly Jay (and Ethan Slater's ex-wife) is showing there can be a third. As a refresher, Wicked star Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater have a very public relationship that had quite a rocky beginning. Even now, some people aren't the biggest fans of their love story — and I doubt Lilly's latest personal essay on The Cut will help.

Lilly penned a very personal account of her divorce, divulging pretty intimate details of her experience unexpectedly in the spotlight. The clinical psychologist shared what this experience (and her divorce) taught her, showing she's ready to reclaim her story in the public eye. Here are the key takeaways!

Scroll down for the key takeaways from Lilly Jay's article on her divorce from Ethan Slater!

Jenny Anderson/Getty Images for Nickelodeon

1. Lilly Jay initially felt blindsided by her divorce from Ethan Slater.

No one ever wants to watch the world publicly see their ex with someone else. We don't know how we'd feel if our ex decided to move on with someone as famous as Ariana Grande, but we suspect we'd want to press pause on our social media intake.

Dr. Lilly Jay added, "No one gets married thinking they’ll get divorced, in the same way we don’t board a plane expecting to crash. But I really never thought I would get divorced. Especially not just after giving birth to my first child and especially not in the shadow of my husband’s new relationship with a celebrity [Ariana Grande]," (via The Cut).

2. Lilly's in the acceptance stage of her divorce with Ethan.

It can be embarrassing to watch others give their opinions about your 'failed' romantic relationship, but It's something Dr. Lilly Jay's working through. "In the countless hours I spend rocking my son to sleep, pushing his stroller, marveling at his sweaty little hands grasping a crayon, I work diligently on my private project of accepting the sudden public downfall of my marriage," she wrote. However, she's not looking to bury her head in the sand.

"This, I tell myself, is nothing to be ashamed of and nothing to hide."

Jenny Anderson/Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions

3. Lilly Jay believes her happy ending is out there.

Some people cling to pessimism after feeling hurt by the person they love while others still look at the glass as half-full. Dr. Jay's choosing the latter which is impressive to us! She further wrote, "Slowly but surely, I have come to believe that in the absence of the life I planned with my high-school sweetheart, a lifetime of sweetness is waiting for me and my child."

That's right rockstar mom; focus on enjoying what else life has to offer!

Bryan Bedder/Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions

4. Lilly Jay does miss when her life was private.

Fully understanding Dr. Lilly Jay is a clinical psychologist, there's a certain level of disbelief at how much of the breakdown of her divorce has become public. Against her will, people found out about a delicate matter and it didn't help that the other parties involved were so giddy while she tried to make sense of what was taking place.

She said, "In this season of shock and mourning, over a year after the end of my marriage was made public, I deeply miss the life of invisibility I created for myself as a psychologist specializing in women’s mental health." Yet, she has hope that maybe something good can come from this even though she works at a "Children's Hospital."

"...while I still firmly believe in following my patients’ leads and not presuming to know what parts of my personhood resonate with them, the publicity I did not consent to increasingly feels like both a challenge and an opportunity," Dr. Jay insists.

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions

5. But, Lilly's taking a chance by embracing this visibility.

There's not an easy way to accept everything Dr. Lilly Jay has experienced, but we truly think she's brave for expressing her fears, vulnerability, and hope in her The Cut essay. Her final caveats? She's "okay" and wants the world to get to know her on her terms.

"You know how a sponge is most effective at absorbing liquid when it’s already a bit wet? Maybe we can think about my messy not-so-personal life in that way: a dose of my own loss, rage, powerlessness, sadness that helps me hold yours."

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35 No-Bake Holiday Dessert Recipes That Are Insanely Good

Desserts make Christmas go around, but it can be hard to find time to bake with countless holiday parties to attend. If you're feeling a little oven-shy or wonder why those cookie recipes you try to bake come out looking gooey, maybe it's time for a different approach.

Because we've been there before, we put together a list of 35 stellar “no-bake" recipes that will satisfy everyone's preferences and dietary restrictions! If you're still craving something sweet after reading about these delectable treats try making our No-Bake Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie or our adorable No-Bake Grammy Bon Bons!

Half Baked Harvest

No Bake Mixed Berry Custard Tart

It's hard to believe this stunning dessert is no bake! Buttery Ritz crackers are the secret with homemade vanilla custard, mixed berries, and sweet honey. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Clean Cuisine

No Bake Key Lime Pie

Love the little something green on your holiday dessert table and this healthy twist on traditional key limes is sure to please! (via Clean Cuisine)

Vikalinka

No Bake Strawberry Meringue Cheesecake

It's all in the name and it's all absolutely delicious. (via Vikalinka)

Averie Cooks

No Bake Tiramisu

Not a lot of time? This no-bake dessert infused with espresso, Kahlua, a luscious creamy filling is decadent and so easy! (via Averie Cooks)

Hello Little Home

No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

Give your cheesecake a taste of fall with this delightful holiday dessert. (via Hello Little Home)

Kathryn's Kitchen

No Bake Chocolate Peppermint Graham Crackers

These no bake bars are a crowd pleaser and make great last-minute gifts! (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Woman Scribbles

No Bake Coffee Swirl Cheesecake

Add a hint of coffee flavor to your cheesecake dessert. (via Woman Scribbles)

Chocolate No-Bake Holiday Desserts

Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies

A staple around the holidays, these cookies require one pot and a stove top. These cookies contain dangerously delicious amounts of peanut butter and chocolate, and for a different texture, try making them with Crunchy peanut butter. (via Foodista)

The Real Food Dietitians

Vegan No Bake Brownies

Whip up these egg-free brownies in only 20 minutes! (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Vanilla and Bean

Chocolate Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies

These bite-size desserts are gluten free and incredible delicious. Bet you can't eat just one! (via Vanilla and Bean)

Completely Delicious

Chocolate Oreo Parfaits

This three-ingredient dessert is so simple and requires no oven! (via Completely Delicious)

Scotcheroo Bar

This classic from Buns in My Ovenis always welcome at large gatherings. Added bonus, you can make a whole pan of these treats in one batch making it a low stress contribution. (via Buns in My Oven)

Triple Chocolate Brownies

The name alone makes us hungry. Anything with that much chocolate has to be delicious. (via Food 52)

Peanut Butter Bar

Another large group friendly recipe, these Peanut Butter Bars from Our Best Bitesare sure to please even the pickiest of eaters, think a giant Reese’s cup. (via Our Best Bites)

Vegan Peanut Butter Cacao Fudge Bars

Yes these amazing looking fudge bars are vegan! That means none of your friends and family have to miss out on the holiday goodies. (via Lunch Box Bunch)

Oreo Truffles

How do dense and delicious little Oreo truffles sound to you? We’re certainly excited about this finger friendly truffle. (via Bakerella)

Chocolate Mousse

No no-bake list would be complete without a mention of mousse. So here is a fabulous chocolate mousse for your palate’s pleasure. (via Food Network)

Homemade Tootsie Rolls

Looking for a sweet gift for that candy lover in your life or maybe just trying to find an easy item to contribute to that holiday party? Look no further! (via Sprinkle Bakes)

Peppermint Fudge

This super simple fudge has color in all the right places. Not to mention the sweet crushed candy cane on top that makes this dessert undeniably festive. (via Shugary Sweets)

Girl Scout No-Bake Holiday Desserts

Thin Mint Cookies

Dreaming about Girl Scout Cookies? Satisfy your crunchy, minty craving by making your own thin mints and if you’re feeling generous, give some as gifts! (via Everyday Reading )

Thin Mint Puppy Chow

What makes the delectable powdered sugary goodness of puppy chow (or muddy buddies) even better? Some mint! (via Shugary Sweets)

Samoa Bars

Okay maybe we’re a little Girl Scout focused but if Thin Mints aren’t your thing why not make Samoa Bars! (via Babble)

No-Bake Holiday Cheesecakes

White Chocolate No-Bake Cheesecake

These very red and white little cheesecakes would add the perfect festive touch to any meal and will wow friends and family! (via Sprinkle Bakes)

Easy No-Bake Cheesecake

Ready to wow the folks at your Holiday table? Knock their socks off with this stunning and simple Cheesecake! (via Just a Taste)

Gingerbread Oreo No Bake Mini Cheesecakes

Oreos, cheesecake, and gingerbread all in one? I think I just died and went to no-bake dessert heaven. (via My Baking Addiction)

No-Bake Holiday Pies

No Bake Mini Grasshopper Pies

We can’t get over how sweet these little desserts are, both visually and to eat! These individual desserts would be a perfect addition to a small dinner party. (Image via A Pretty Life in the Suburbs)

S’More Pie

If you tried our S’More pie and loved it, you’ll love this version as well! It does take longer to make but maybe you could whip up both and have a blind tasting… (via Brown Eyed Baker)

Orange and Cream Pie

To satisfy, dare we say it, the non-chocoholics in the room. This classy pie will be refreshing and sweet. (via Joy the Baker)

Peanut Butter Pie

And the peanut butter just keeps coming! This light and fluffy peanut butter pie will keep Grandpa coming back for seconds. (via One Ordinary Day)

Vegan Walnut Pumpkin Pie

A vegan take on a Holiday classic. This pie is the best of both worlds! (via Lunch Box Bunch)

Miscellaneous No-Bake Holiday Desserts

Vanilla Panna Cotta and Pomegranate Jelly

This elegant dessert requires absolutely no oven and looks amazing in a delicate glass. Make sure the glasses allow easy access for large spoons! (via Inspired Edibles)

Candy Cane Bark

Chaos is key to a gorgeous candy cane bark. Throw everything together and voila! A dessert that’s ready to be gifted. (via Babble)

Oreo Layer Dessert

Cool whip and chocolate pudding, nothings better! This low maintenance dessert is perfect for the dessert maker that prefers to keep things simple. (via Brown Eyed Baker)

Banana Pudding with Homemade Salted Caramel

Just in case you’re looking for something a tiny bit old fashioned for a family dinner, give these a try! They are a delicious new take on a sweet classic. (via Just a Taste )

Peanut Butter Banana Granola Bites

If massive amounts of sugar and butter make you squirm, there’s no need to miss out on all the dessert fun. Try these slightly sweet and healthy granola bites! (via Joy the Baker)

Which no-bake holiday dessert recipe will you try before the end of 2024?

Lead image via My Baking Addiction

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This Major 'Reputation (Taylor's Version)' Release Date Easter Egg's Been There The Whole Freaking Time

Taylor Swift has been teasing Reputation (Taylor's Version) for two years — or, at least, Swifties have been clowning over it for two years. When Tay showed up to the 2022 VMAs in a "Look What You Made Me Do"-inspired outfit, fans expected her to drop the first Rep (TV) single, but she announced Midnights instead. And history repeated itself at the 2024 Grammys, when Taylor showed up in black & white before announcing The Tortured Poets Department.

Even though some fans feel confused, NOT getting Reputation (Taylor's Version) in 2024 totally goes with the "2 re-recordings one year, 1 new album the next" pattern we've seen since 2021. But there's one huge Easter egg that's been pointing us to 2025 all along: it's the Year of the Snake.

Here's the one major Reputation (Taylor's Version) release date Easter egg that suggests Taylor Swift could drop it in 2025.

When is Reputation (Taylor's Version) coming out?

Let it be known we still don't have an official Reputation (Taylor's Version) release date yet, but after the "I Can See You" music video featured the number 2.16 (February 16), everyone eagerly awaited February 2024 with baited breath...only to receive nothing. But now I've turned my eyes to February 16, 2025 because DUH, releasing Reputation (TV) during the Year of the Snake (the icon associated with the entire 2.5-year era) makes more sense than anything.

"Some of us have been saying this since like 2022," one TikTok user jokes, while another rationalizes, "We had fearless, red in 2021 then speak now, 1989 in 2023 so reputation and debut in 2025."

The Year of the Snake officially kicks off January 29, meaning we could be in for a late-January announcement, but some fans think Taylor will announce the album on New Year's Day 2025 in honor of the closing track on the album. In my opinion, it makes total sense to get Reputation (TV) for the first half of the year, and to wrap up the re-recording era with Taylor Swift (Taylor's Version) for the second half of the year before transitioning to her new movie (and a potential TS12, of course).

Will there be a Reputation (Taylor's Version)?

Yes, we're getting a Reputation (Taylor's Version)! Taylor Swift announced she'd be re-recording all of the albums leading up to Lover after she was unable to buy the rights to her music. In addition to more modern versions of all our favorite Taylor Swift songs, she's also added brand new tunes (called "From the Vault" tracks) as bonus songs for each album. Tracks like "When Emma Falls In Love (Taylor's Version)", "Timeless (Taylor's Version)", and "Is It Over Now? (Taylor's Version)" quickly became fan favorites!

Reputation has always been my favorite Taylor Swift album, and I can't wait to see what kind of vault tracks we get. At its core, Rep is a love album that also address fear and hope, and Reputation (TV) is going to be the one re-recording you won't want to miss.

Check out All The Pics From Taylor Swift's Sweet Eras Tour Party for more!

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Amazon

The wide, bell sleeves on this gorgeous top, coupled with the fun color choices and the funky texture, make it a luxurious, exciting choice you're going to love styling every chance you get.

See it on Amazon