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If you've had a dream where Pedro Pascal is royally schmoozed by Walton Goggins, check out the reality of the exclusive clip above from The Uninvited.
A sneak peek at writer-director Nadia Conners' upcoming film, the scene takes place amid a deeply fancy party thrown by former actor Rose (Elizabeth Reaser, The Haunting of Hill House) and her Hollywood agent husband Sammy (Goggins, The White Lotus).
Sammy's white whale client target is a silk-shirted Pascal (The Last of Us) as Lucien, an A-lister movie star and bonafide lothario. But why do Lucien and Rose look like Sammy just interrupted something?
TL;DR: Live stream Musetti vs. Diallo in the 2025 Madrid Open for free on RTVE. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
The 2025 Madrid Open quarter finals include some really interesting matchups, including Musetti vs. Diallo. The unseeded Diallo has been one of the best stories of the tournament so far. Can the Canadian continue to upset the odds and progress into the semi finals?
If you want to watch Musetti vs. Diallo in the 2025 Madrid Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
How to watch Musetti vs. Diallo for freeThe 2025 Madrid Open is available to live stream for free on RTVE, including Musetti vs. Diallo.
RTVE is geo-restricted to Spain, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Spain, meaning you can unblock RTVE from anywhere in the world.
Access free live streams of the 2025 Madrid Open by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in Spain
Visit RTVE
Watch the 2025 Madrid Open for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading services do tend to offer incentive deals such as free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these deals, you can live stream Musetti vs. Diallo without actually spending anything. This isn't a long-term solution, but it gives you enough time to watch the Madrid Open before recovering your investment.
What is the best VPN for RTVE?ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live tennis on RTVE, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including Spain
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure
Fast connection speeds
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.
Live stream Musetti vs. Diallo in the 2025 Madrid Open for free with ExpressVPN.
TL;DR: Live stream Draper vs. Arnaldi in the 2025 Madrid Open for free on RTVE. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
The 2025 Madrid Open quarter finals are bringing together some of the best players in the world. We know this isn't the French Open, but this tournament provides an awesome opportunity to build momentum before the main event.
Draper takes on Arnaldi in one of the most interesting matchups at this late stage. If you want to watch Draper vs. Arnaldi in the 2025 Madrid Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
How to watch Draper vs. Arnaldi for freeThe 2025 Madrid Open is available to live stream for free on RTVE, including Draper vs. Arnaldi.
RTVE is geo-restricted to Spain, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Spain, meaning you can unblock RTVE from anywhere in the world.
Access free live streams of the 2025 Madrid Open by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in Spain
Visit RTVE
Watch the 2025 Madrid Open for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading services do tend to offer incentive deals such as free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these deals, you can live stream Draper vs. Arnaldi without actually spending anything. This isn't a long-term solution, but it gives you enough time to watch the Madrid Open before recovering your investment.
What is the best VPN for RTVE?ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live tennis on RTVE, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including Spain
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure
Fast connection speeds
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.
Live stream Draper vs. Arnaldi in the 2025 Madrid Open for free with ExpressVPN.
If you're a fiend for the world of John Wick, you'll want to watch this.
A new behind-the-scenes documentary, Wick Is Pain, will let you step inside the Continental hotel and go behind the scenes of Chad Stahelski's Keanu Reeves-led, puppy-fuelled, towering body count-clad assassin action franchise.
Directed by Jeffrey Doe, the film features interviews with the cast and crew including Reeves and Stahelski, alongside producers Erica Lee, Basil Iwanyk, and David Leitch. From the looks of the trailer, there's plenty of on-set footage of Reeves in full John Wick stunt mode — as his stunt double Jackson Spidell says, "When you see Keanu in pain onscreen, it's probably for real." After all, Stahelski did hit Reeves with a car.
But the film also promises to go into the fact that the first John Wick movie in 2014 — the one with the puppy that started it all — almost didn't happen.
Wick Is Pain is available to rent and buy on digital platforms from May 9, after screening at Beyond Fest at the American Cinematheque on May 8.
TL;DR: Live stream Cerundolo vs. Mensik in the 2025 Madrid Open for free on RTVE. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
The 2025 Madrid Open quarter finals are here for the men's draw, with Cerundolo taking on Mensik in one of the toughest matchups to predict. We really can't call this one. It's going to be an absolute battle for a spot in the semi finals.
If you want to watch Cerundolo vs. Mensik in the 2025 Madrid Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
How to watch Cerundolo vs. Mensik for freeThe 2025 Madrid Open is available to live stream for free on RTVE, including Cerundolo vs. Mensik.
RTVE is geo-restricted to Spain, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Spain, meaning you can unblock RTVE from anywhere in the world.
Access free live streams of the 2025 Madrid Open by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in Spain
Visit RTVE
Watch the 2025 Madrid Open for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading services do tend to offer incentive deals such as free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these deals, you can live stream Cerundolo vs. Mensik without actually spending anything. This isn't a long-term solution, but it gives you enough time to watch the Madrid Open before recovering your investment.
What is the best VPN for RTVE?ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live tennis on RTVE, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including Spain
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure
Fast connection speeds
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.
Live stream Cerundolo vs. Mensik in the 2025 Madrid Open for free with ExpressVPN.
TL;DR: Live stream Sabalenka vs. Svitolina in the 2025 Madrid Open for free on RTVE. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
The 2025 Madrid Open semi finals are here, with two absolutely huge matches in the women's draw. Gauff takes on Swiatek in the first, followed by Sabalenka vs. Svitolina. This is particularly tough match to call, but top seed Sabalenka will be favorite for many fans.
If you want to watch Sabalenka vs. Svitolina in the 2025 Madrid Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
How to watch Sabalenka vs. Svitolina for freeThe 2025 Madrid Open is available to live stream for free on RTVE, including Sabalenka vs. Svitolina.
RTVE is geo-restricted to Spain, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Spain, meaning you can unblock RTVE from anywhere in the world.
Access free live streams of the 2025 Madrid Open by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in Spain
Visit RTVE
Watch the 2025 Madrid Open for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading services do tend to offer incentive deals such as free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these deals, you can live stream Sabalenka vs. Svitolina without actually spending anything. This isn't a long-term solution, but it gives you enough time to watch the Madrid Open before recovering your investment.
What is the best VPN for RTVE?ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live tennis on RTVE, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including Spain
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure
Fast connection speeds
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.
Live stream Sabalenka vs. Svitolina in the 2025 Madrid Open for free with ExpressVPN.
TL;DR: Live stream Gauff vs. Swiatek in the 2025 Madrid Open for free on RTVE. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
The 2025 Madrid Open is coming to a dramatic conclusion with some massive games still to play, including Gauff vs. Swiatek. This huge semi-final matchup is the one to watch. It's the defending champion's toughest matchup in the competition. Coco Gauff has the talent to beat anyone on her day.
If you want to watch Gauff vs. Swiatek in the 2025 Madrid Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
How to watch Gauff vs. Swiatek for freeThe 2025 Madrid Open is available to live stream for free on RTVE, including Gauff vs. Swiatek.
RTVE is geo-restricted to Spain, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Spain, meaning you can unblock RTVE from anywhere in the world.
Access free live streams of the 2025 Madrid Open by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in Spain
Visit RTVE
Watch the 2025 Madrid Open for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading services do tend to offer incentive deals such as free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these deals, you can live stream Gauff vs. Swiatek without actually spending anything. This isn't a long-term solution, but it gives you enough time to watch the Madrid Open before recovering your investment.
What is the best VPN for RTVE?ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live tennis on RTVE, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including Spain
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure
Fast connection speeds
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.
Live stream Gauff vs. Swiatek in the 2025 Madrid Open for free with ExpressVPN.
TL;DR: Live stream Ruud vs. Medvedev in the 2025 Madrid Open for free on RTVE. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
The 2025 Madrid Open is entering its final stages, so fans can expect some massive games between the world's best players. The first quarter final in the men's draw sees Ruud take on Medvedev. This one is tough to call, but it should be an entertaining tussle between two aggressive players.
If you want to watch Ruud vs. Medvedev in the 2025 Madrid Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
How to watch Ruud vs. Medvedev for freeThe 2025 Madrid Open is available to live stream for free on RTVE, including Ruud vs. Medvedev.
RTVE is geo-restricted to Spain, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Spain, meaning you can unblock RTVE from anywhere in the world.
Access free live streams of the 2025 Madrid Open by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in Spain
Visit RTVE
Watch the 2025 Madrid Open for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading services do tend to offer incentive deals such as free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these deals, you can live stream Ruud vs. Medvedev without actually spending anything. This isn't a long-term solution, but it gives you enough time to watch the Madrid Open before recovering your investment.
What is the best VPN for RTVE?ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live tennis on RTVE, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including Spain
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure
Fast connection speeds
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.
Live stream Ruud vs. Medvedev in the 2025 Madrid Open for free with ExpressVPN.
MAX BUNDLES: Max is offering a few different bundle deals so you can stream from its library without making a massive dent in your wallet.
The best Max deals and bundles in May 2025: Best Max Annual Deal Max (Annual Plan) $79.99 (save $20) Get Deal Best Bundle Deal Disney+, Hulu, Max Bundle $16.99/month with ads, $29.99/month ad-free Get Deal Best Student Discount Max Student Discount Students save 50% on Max Basic With Ads plan Get Deal Best Bundle with Hulu Hulu with Max Add Max to your Hulu base plan from $9.99 per month Get DealSome of the most prestigious shows and films live on Max's streaming service. From The White Lotus to Dune: Part Two and so much more, Max is worth the investment for those looking to dive into the most talked about pieces of entertainment. And with highly-anticipated shows like The Last of Us running again — you can check out our review of The Last of Us season two to learn our thoughts about the show's return — there's no better time than now to start looking at plans and bundles.
The good news is that Max has a few different bundles available at the moment that are worth checking out, including a big bundle with Disney+ and Hulu. With streaming prices on the rise, a bundle like this can be a great way to save some cash while getting access to your favorite services. Max is also offering a great deal at the moment on its yearly plans, which you can learn more about below.
SEE ALSO: 'The Last of Us' Season 1 Recap: Everything you need to remember before watching season 2Alongside that deal and a couple more, we've also broken down Max's standard plans in case you're just interested in its service on its own.
Best Max Annual Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Max Max Annual Plans Basic With Ads, Standard, and Premium Get Deal Why we like itFor a limited time (until May 7), Max is offering a deal on its yearly plans so you can save on either the Basic With Ads, Standard, or Premium plan for your first year. The Basic With Ads yearly plan is currently down to $79.99 (usually it's $99.99), the Standard yearly plan is down to $139.99 (usually it's $169.99), and the Premium yearly plan is down to $169.99 (usually it's $209.99).
Max Basic With Ads Yearly Plan — $79.99 $99.99 (save $20)
Max Standard Yearly Plan — $139.99 $169.99 (save $30)
Max Premium Yearly Plan — $169.99 $209.99 (save $40)
The Max, Disney+, and Hulu bundle is a top-tier choice for those looking to have access to some of the biggest streaming services around. Starting at $16.99 per month, this bundle grants you access to Hulu, Disney+, and Max's streaming services for a much lower price than what you'd pay for them on their own. If you've already got Disney+ and Hulu subscriptions, this bundle is worth every cent. If you're interested, there are two plan options to choose from:
Disney+, Hulu, Max Bundle (with ads) — $16.99 per month (save 43%)
Disney+, Hulu, Max Bundle (no ads) — $29.99 per month (save 42%)
It's always nice when streaming services have a deal for students, and Max's offer is definitely worth taking advantage of. Students who can verify their status with UNiDAYS are eligible to get the Max Basic With Ads plan for just $4.99 per month. That's a 50% discount off its usual price of $9.99 per month. After verifying your status, you'll receive a unique code that can be used to redeem the discounted plan on Max.
Max Student Discount — $4.99 per month (save 50%)
If you're not interested in the Disney+, Hulu, and Max mega bundle, you can just get Hulu and Max together if you already have a Hulu base plan, which starts at $9.99 per month. Max (With Ads) can be added onto your plan for $9.99 per month, or you can splash out on the Max (No Ads) plan for $16.99 per month.
Hulu with Max add-on — from $9.99 per month
Max offers a few different subscription plans. If you don't mind having to sit through ads, Max's Basic With Ads plan starts at $9.99 per month or the annual plan usually runs for $99.99 per year, which ultimately saves you $19. If you can't stand ads and don't mind throwing down a bit more cash, the Standard plan will cost you $16.99 per month or $169.99 per year, which saves you $33. If you really want to go big on a Max plan, you can spring for the fancy Premium plan, which costs $20.99 per month or $209.99 per year.
Below we've broken down what comes with each of these plans, per Max's website, so you can know a bit more before you buy.
Basic With Ads — $9.99 per month, $79.99 for the first year $99.99 per year
Stream on two devices at once
Full HD 1080p resolution
Standard (Ad-free) — $16.99 per month, $139.99 for the first year $169.99 per year
Stream on two devices at once
Full HD 1080p resolution
30 downloads to watch on the go
Premium (Ad-free) — $20.99 per month, $169.99 for the first year $209.99 per year
Stream on four devices at once
4K Ultra HD video quality (as available)
Dolby Atmos immersive audio (as available)
100 downloads to watch on the go
If you're wondering where to start once you've set yourself up with a Max subscription, we've got an excellent selection of recommendations to point you in the right direction. Looking for a great TV show to kickstart your next binge-watching session? Have a look through our roundup of the 20 best TV shows streaming on Max. Or if you prefer movies, we narrowed down the 25 best movies on Max to make your next movie night a spectacular one.
Samantha Harvey may have over 1.2 million followers across TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, but her journey hasn't been all brand trips to Paris with Huda Beauty and London staycations with Nars. Originally from Edinburgh, Harvey only went on her first brand trip — to Los Angeles with Sephora Collection sprinkled with a few Dolce and Gabbana beauty events — just six months ago.
She launched her social media channels during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, and, as she puts it, “things took off pretty quickly.” Since then, she’s built a loyal global following with her makeup tutorials, dramatic beauty looks, and extremely online personality. Below, Harvey answered some of our biggest questions about how she grew to this point, how she monetizes her content, and how she turned her makeup passion into her dream career.
How Sam Harvey gets it all done Credit: Jeffrey Hazelwood/Mashable Composite; Sam Harvey Mashable: Where do you find inspiration or ideas for your videos?Samantha Harvey: There’s honestly so much that inspires me! I know it sounds kinda cliché, but I’m such a makeup girl at heart — it’s seriously my happy place. Whether it’s a new product drop, a celeb makeup look, or some iconic pop culture moment, I’m always soaking it all in.
Like most of us, I’m chronically online, so I’m always scrolling TikTok to keep on top of trends. And Halloween!! It’s basically the makeup influencers' Olympics. I’m that girl who starts planning her Halloween looks in July or August!
View this post on Instagram How long did it take before you saw significant growth in followers, and what strategies helped you get there?I was honestly super lucky to start my page during lockdown, so things took off pretty quickly for me! I didn’t have a job at the time, so I just threw myself into it completely. I’d be doing creative makeup looks like three to four times a week, jumping on every single trend and viral audio.
I've always tried to get the most out of each look, like I’ll film a bunch of content in one go so I can post more consistently. That definitely helped with growth early on!
What was your first viral video or post, and how did it change your approach to content creation?My first viral post was actually a makeup transition video on TikTok! That kind of became my thing after that — it’s what people started to recognize me for, so it really helped me figure out what type of content I should lean into.
At what point did you realize you could turn your content into a full-time career and generate income from it?When I first started, I had no idea how to actually make money from the content I was posting. I was literally just doing it for fun for, like, the first year! So when a management team reached out and told me this could actually be a real career, it was such a game-changer. It seriously changed my whole life!
How did you get your first brand deal? How did that differ from how you come by brand deals today?I still remember how excited I was when a small lash brand DM’d me offering free lashes in exchange for content—it felt like such a big deal at the time! Now, all my brand deals either come through my management or directly from brands wanting to collaborate. My manager and I have a long-term strategy where we focus on working with brands I genuinely love and already use, so everything stays super authentic.
How do you make money from your content, and what monetization methods do you use?Most of my income comes from brand deals and partnerships, but I also make a bit from YouTube AdSense and the TikTok Creator Fund on the side.
When did you feel like you "made it" as a content creator, if at all?Being part of the first-ever Huda Beauty influencer campaign was majorrrr, like such a surreal moment!! I’ve looked up to so many of the creators in that space since I was a teen, so being recognized and actually working alongside them was literally a dream come true.
And honestly, there are days I’m doing my makeup, filming content, and I just stop, like… OMG, I really get to do this for a living. I get to play with blush and lip gloss and call it work?! It’s kinda iconic.
Which platforms have been most crucial in growing your audience and why?TikTok was 100 percent the platform that helped me grow the fastest — it’s just so much easier to go viral and reach new people on there. But honestly, I feel like Instagram is just as important for me. The audience there feels a bit more loyal and consistent, like my real day-ones.
I’ve also just started branching out into some long-form YouTube content, which has been so nice. It gives me space to actually chat and lets people get to know me on a more personal level, not just the glam side!
Can you walk me through your workflow from ideation to publishing a post?Not gonna lie, I’m definitely not the most organized content creator out there. But I do try to sit down at the start of each week and update my list of ideas, whether it’s new trends, products I’m loving, or requests from my followers.
I’m not really into scripting my content either. I feel like I work way better when I just sit down, vibe, and go with the flow. I try to batch-film when I can, but I’m not the fastest when it comes to filming, so that part can be a bit of a struggle sometimes.
I edit everything on CapCut, and if I’m being really on top of things, I’ll actually schedule my posts ahead of time. But let’s be real — most of the time I’m scrambling to finish editing so I can post at a good time.
View this post on Instagram What advice would you give to someone starting out in content creation today, looking to build a career and grow their following?Find what you love doing and just go for it! Practice, stay consistent, and please don’t stress over likes and views. And seriously, don’t let the fear of being "cringe" stop you!! I’ve definitely felt that way, but trust me: it’s totally fine to feel awkward in front of the camera (I still do sometimes). Pushing through that cringe is literally what helps you grow!
A U.S. judge has found Apple intentionally violated a court order prohibiting it from anti-competitive conduct. Held in civil contempt of court, the tech giant is also facing an investigation for criminal contempt, with one of its executives even accused of "outright [lying] under oath."
On Wednesday, California District Court judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers issued a scathing order calling out Apple for "willful violation" of a 2021 injunction. This injunction had been issued as part of Epic Games' ongoing antitrust lawsuit against Apple, in which the Fortnite developer argued that iOS apps should be allowed to offer in-app payment processing methods other than Apple Pay.
At the time, the court ordered that Apple could not prevent app developers from directing users to alternate payment options. It also found that the 30 percent commission Apple had been charging on in-app purchases was anti-competitive, and thus would no longer be allowed.
SEE ALSO: Apple Pay can be used to buy cryptocurrency nowHowever, Apple allegedly implemented some workarounds, according to Wednesday's court order. Gonzalez Rogers said that after the 2021 ruling, Apple began to charge a 27 percent commission on off-app purchases — a fee which hadn't previously existed. The order further stated that Apple had attempted to steer customers away from alternate, non-Apple payment methods with barriers such as "full page 'scare' screens, static URLs, and generic statements."
"Apple, despite knowing its obligations thereunder, thwarted the Injunction’s goals, and continued its anticompetitive conduct solely to maintain its revenue stream," wrote Gonzalez Rogers.
"This is an injunction, not a negotiation. There are no do-overs once a party willfully disregards a court order."
"Cook chose poorly." - Judge Yvonne Gonzalez RogersGonzalez Rogers also called out specific Apple executives, writing that vice-president of finance Alex Roman attempted to mislead the court by providing testimony "replete with misdirection and outright lies." Noting that neither Apple nor its lawyers corrected Roman's testimony, the judge ruled that "Apple will be held to have adopted the lies and misrepresentations to this Court."
Not all Apple's executives are accused of having attempted to skirt the law, with internal documents cited in the order revealing that executive Phillip Schiller argued Apple should comply with the injunction. Unfortunately, they also showed that CEO Tim Cook allegedly chose to follow the "lucrative approach" advice of Chief Financial Officer Luca Maestri instead, which was "advocating for a commission."
"In stark contrast to Apple’s initial in-court testimony, contemporaneous business documents reveal that Apple knew exactly what it was doing and at every turn chose the most anticompetitive option," Gonzalez Rogers wrote. "Internally, Phillip Schiller had advocated that Apple comply with the Injunction, but Tim Cook ignored Schiller and instead allowed Chief Financial Officer Luca Maestri and his finance team to convince him otherwise.
"Cook chose poorly."
Featured Video For You This deep sea robot just dove down Earth's deepest trenchApple is now facing the consequences of that decision, with the court referring both the company and Roman specifically to the U.S. Attorney for investigation of criminal contempt. The company must also cease its alleged injunction workarounds.
"Apple willfully chose not to comply with this Court’s Injunction," wrote Gonzalez Rogers (emphasis original). "It did so with the express intent to create new anticompetitive barriers which would, by design and in effect, maintain a valued revenue stream; a revenue stream previously found to be anticompetitive.
"That it thought this Court would tolerate such insubordination was a gross miscalculation. As always, the cover-up made it worse. For this Court, there is no second bite at the apple."
In a statement, Apple said that it "strongly disagree[s]" with the court's decision, and intends to appeal.
Of course, Epic Games is much more pleased with the outcome. In the wake of Wednesday's order, CEO Tim Sweeney announced that it now plans to bring Fortnite back to iOS in the U.S. next week. Apple removed Fortnite from its app store back in 2020, though last year it made a return for players in the EU.
This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed."Epic puts forth a peace proposal: If Apple extends the court's friction-free, Apple-tax-free framework worldwide, we'll return Fortnite to the App Store worldwide and drop current and future litigation on the topic," Sweeney posted to X.
HULU BUNDLES: Hulu is offering a range of bundle deals so you can stream from its impressive library without breaking the bank.
The best Hulu deals and bundles in May 2025: Best Bundle Deal Disney+, Hulu, Max Bundle $16.99/month with ads, $29.99/month ad-free Get Deal Best Add-On Deal Disney+, Hulu Bundle Basic Disney+ and Hulu with ads for $10.99 per month Get Deal Best Student Deal Hulu Student Deal Hulu (with ads) for $1.99 per month Get DealThere's a wide range of excellent shows and films to watch on Hulu. From A Complete Unknown to season six of The Handmaid's Tale, it's a library that's full of options to keep you entertained for hours. You can even catch Oscar Best Picture winner Anora on the service right now.
If any of these have caught your eye and have you itching to sign up for Hulu, we're here to help you get the best deal. Outside of the standard ad-supported and ad free plans, there are quite a few bundle deals available with Hulu that are worth exploring if you're looking to save some cash.
SEE ALSO: How to watch 'The Monkey': When is the Stephen King adaptation streaming?With streaming prices on the rise (Hulu even recently increased its prices just last year), there's no better time than now to find a way to save on streaming services like this one. Below you can find details on Hulu's best bundles at the moment — alongside information on both its ad-supported and ad free plan, if you just want the basics — offering you a way to save on the service without going overboard on spending.
You'll even get additional streaming services thrown in at a lower cost, and what's better than that?
Best Bundle Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Disney+, Hulu, Max Bundle $16.99/month with ads, $29.99/month ad-free Get Deal Why we like itReleased last July, this is one of the best Hulu bundles available at the moment. Starting at $16.99 per month, this bundle grants you access to Hulu, Disney+, and Max's streaming services for a much lower price than what you'd pay for the three of them separately. It's an incredible deal to take advantage of, especially if you've already got Disney+ and Max subscriptions. There are two plans to choose from with this bundle, and they are:
Disney+, Hulu, Max Bundle (with ads) — $16.99 per month (save 43%)
Disney+, Hulu, Max Bundle (no ads) — $29.99 per month (save 42%)
If you don't want to splash out on the full Hulu, Disney+, and Max bundle, the next best thing is the Disney+, Hulu Bundle Basic plan. This comes with just Disney+ alongside Hulu, giving you access to each of their ad-supported streaming platforms for as low as $10.99 per month. If you're already subscribed to Disney+ or have been hoping to jump into its library, this is well worth investing in.
Disney+, Hulu Bundle Basic — $10.99 per month
This isn't the only Disney+ plan available with Hulu, though. For those looking to jump into an ad-free tier for the Disney+ and Hulu bundle, there's the Disney+, Hulu Bundle Premium plan that'll cost you $19.99 per month instead. And if you're a sports fan and want to throw in ESPN+, there are also Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+ Bundle Basic and Premium plans, which run for $16.99 per month and $26.99 per month, respectively.
Disney+, Hulu Bundle Premium — $19.99 per month
Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+ Bundle Basic — $16.99 per month
Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+ Bundle Premium — $26.99 per month
If you're a student enrolled at a university, you can score a Hulu (with ads) plan for even lower than the above bundles. Hulu's Student Deal gives eligible college students the ability to buy a Hulu (with ads) plan for just $1.99 per month. Hulu notes that the deal lasts "so long as student enrollment status remains verified," then it goes back up to the standard monthly price.
Hulu Student Deal — $1.99 per month
If you're just looking to jump straight into Hulu's library without any fancy bundles, there are a couple of subscription options to consider. The ad-supported tier comes in at $9.99 per month, but you'll get your first month free, which is a great way to test the waters and see if it's the right fit for you. If you want to go ad free, that'll cost you $18.99 per month. Unfortunately, this plan does not offer a free trial like its ad-supported sibling.
Hulu (with ads) — $9.99 per month (get first month free)
Hulu (no ads) — $18.99 per month
If you really want to go big on a streaming investment, there's the Hulu + Live TV plan. This costs a whopping $82.99 per month for its ad-supported plan, but comes with plenty to keep you busy. Hulu + Live TV (with ads) gets you access to 95+ channels, unlimited DVR, Disney+ (with ads), ESPN+ (with ads), and Hulu (with ads). If you want to go even bigger with the ad-free plan — which offers Hulu (No Ads), Disney+ (no ads), and ESPN+ (with ads) alongside Live TV — it'll cost you $95.99 per month. The ad-supported plan also offers a free trial, but for just three days instead.
Hulu + Live TV (with ads) — $82.99 per month (three day free trial)
Hulu + Live TV (no ads) — $95.99 per month
Wondering what to watch once you get set up with a Hulu plan or bundle? We're here to help with that as well. Have a look at our roundups of the 30 best comedies on Hulu, the 25 best sci-fi movies on Hulu, and the 26 best horror movies on Hulu to start building your watchlist. And if you're in the mood to binge-watch a show, check out our breakdown of the 25 best shows on Hulu.
NASA's Perseverance rover almost had to let go of a precious drill bit on Mars after an attempt to collect a rock sample went awry.
For the past week, the car-sized lab on wheels seemed to remain in its location on the rim of Jezero crater. Meanwhile, a team of scientists and engineers on Earth focused on how to free the tool from the rock.
Anyone who has used a power drill around the house knows the frustration of getting one stuck in a board or wall, without being able to yank it back out. Well, sometimes the U.S. space agency has to retrieve a stuck drill, too — but from roughly 132 million miles away.
Fortunately, Perseverance didn't have to sacrifice the coring bit. A NASA spokesperson provided an update on the status of the rover on Wednesday.
"The team was working to extract a drill bit from the most recent sample collection attempt, which was successfully accomplished as of late Tuesday night," NASA told Mashable. "This type of situation was planned for in the rover's design, and there are other drill bits onboard if needed."
SEE ALSO: Scientists found huge beaches on Mars likely from a long gone ocean NASA's Perseverance rover was engaged in a coring operation at Witch Hazel Hill on the outer rim of Jezero Crater on April 29, 2025. Credit: NASA / JPL-CaltechJezero Crater is a site on the Red Planet where scientists believe a river once emptied into a delta. The reason scientists now want to explore the rim is to look for ancient Martian bedrock rubble. Jezero formed when something substantial smacked into the planet close to 4 billion years ago. The impact could have churned up and tossed deep materials to the surface.
Recently, Perseverance has been studying the makeup of layered rocks in an area NASA dubbed Witch Hazel Hill. Scientists want to understand the relationship between the alternating light and dark bands, as each likely formed under different conditions. Based on how layers are stacked, experts may be able to piece together a timeline for the Martian region.
Earlier this month, the rover sampled one of the light-toned layers, which consisted of tiny rock pieces. In the latest coring attempt, the team was grabbing a sample of the darker grains. Raw images beamed back from the rover's cameras to Earth indicated the drill may have been stuck since April 22.
Before Perseverance was launched, NASA equipped it with nine bits: one for Martian soil, two for removing the dust-covered outer layer of a rock, and six for drilling rock cores. It's unclear how many the rover still has in its arsenal and how many have succumbed to the rugged conditions of the Red Planet.
Perseverance arrived on Mars with a backup supply of drill bits in case any broke or became dull during rock collections. Credit: NASA / JPL-CaltechSince landing on Mars in 2021, Perseverance has filled sample tubes with rocks and dirt. NASA's goal has been to retrieve at least some of them and get them to Earth in the 2030s.
Exceptional rock discoveries have only mounted pressure on NASA to solve the problems facing its Mars Sample Return mission, its plan to fly bits of rock, dust, and air collected by the rover back to Earth. Last summer, Perseverance discovered a spotted rock with the most compelling signs of ancient Martian life yet, though a sample would need to be shipped back home for confirmation.
But that mission has been in limbo since a review found it would cost upward of $11 billion and take nearly two decades to achieve. NASA engaged the greater aerospace industry for input on how to wrangle in spending.
The agency is now investigating two new approaches that could bring costs under $8 billion, involving either a commercial lander or the tried-and-true sky crane, the landing system that brought the Perseverance and Curiosity rovers to the Martian surface in the first place. The options could potentially shorten the timeframe to get the samples home.
NASA will spend the next year working on engineering plans for the revised mission.
DISNEY+ BUNDLES: Disney+ is offering bundle deals so you can stream the best of its library at a lower price.
The best Disney+ deals and bundles in May 2025: Best Bundle Deal Disney+, Hulu, Max Bundle $16.99/month with ads, $29.99/month ad-free Get Deal Best Basic Bundle Deal Disney+, Hulu Bundle Basic Disney+ and Hulu with ads for $10.99 per month Get DealWhether you're looking to jump into the latest superhero saga or journey to a galaxy far, far away, Disney+ is the streaming service for you.
Home to Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and so much more, Disney+ offers a library that's stuffed-full of shows and films to keep both adults and kids entertained when it matters. This includes the highly-anticipated second season of Andor, which we said is the "best Star Wars show" that "goes out with a brilliant bang" in our review.
If you've had this streaming service on your radar but are unsure which plan is the best fit for you, we've got you covered with a selection of Disney+ streaming deals.
SEE ALSO: 'Andor' creator on Lucasfilm censoring f-bomb: 'They were right.'There are quite a few bundle deals to check out with Disney+ right now, including the Disney+, Hulu, and Max bundle. This is a great investment for those who already own the other two streaming services and are looking to cut down on costs. And with streaming prices on the rise (Disney+ even increased its prices just last year), now's a great time to jump on a bundle like that.
We've detailed all of the available bundle deals below, alongside basic information on Disney+ plans if you just want the House of Mouse's service on its own.
Best Bundle Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Disney Disney+, Hulu, Max Bundle $16.99/month with ads, $29.99/month ad-free Get Deal Why we like itThe Disney+, Hulu, and Max bundle is one of the best available at the moment. Starting at $16.99 per month, you can have three excellent streaming services right in the palm of your hand, which is a great offer to take advantage of given streaming service prices keep going up. The $16.99 per month option is for the With Ads plan, but if you'd prefer to watch your favorite content without ads, the No Ads plan comes to $29.99 per month. Compared to what you'd pay for each of these on their own, you're saving 43% with the ad-supported plan and 42% with the ad-free plan.
Disney+, Hulu, Max Bundle (with ads) — $16.99 per month (save 43%)
Disney+, Hulu, Max Bundle (no ads) — $29.99 per month (save 42%)
If the Disney+, Hulu, and Max mega bundle feels like a bit too much, there are smaller bundle deals to check out instead. One of the most affordable bundle options the service has is the Disney+, Hulu Bundle Basic plan. This brings together Disney+ and Hulu (With Ads) for $10.99 per month. This is a great way to gain access to both of their libraries for only $1 more than what you'd pay for their ad-supported plans on their own.
Disney+, Hulu Bundle Basic — $10.99 per month
If you'd rather spring for the ad-free version of that bundle, Disney+, Hulu Bundle Premium is what you need. This offers both Disney+ and Hulu without ads for $19.99 per month instead. Disney+ also has bundles that throw in ESPN+. The Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+ Bundle Basic plan, which has ads, runs for $16.99 per month, and the Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+ Bundle Premium plan without ads costs $26.99 per month.
Disney+, Hulu Bundle Premium — $19.99 per month
Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+ Bundle Basic — $16.99 per month
Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+ Bundle Premium — $26.99 per month
Disney+ offers two standard plans if you just want the service on its own. The Disney+ Basic ad-supported plan comes to $9.99 per month while the ad-free Disney+ Premium plan will set you back $15.99 per month or $159.99 per year if you'd rather pay annually.
Disney+ Basic (With Ads) — $9.99 per month
Disney+ Premium (No Ads) — $15.99 per month, $159.99 per year
Disney+ has also created an "extra member" plan for people using your account that live outside of your household as they crack down on password sharing. If you're looking to add another person onto your account, you're only allowed one extra profile and can choose from the following add-on plans:
Disney+ Basic — $6.99 per month
Disney+ Premium — $9.99 per month
Disney+, Hulu Bundle Basic — $7.99 per month
Disney+, Hulu Bundle Premium — $10.99 per month
Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+ Bundle Basic — $11.99 per month
Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+ Bundle Premium — $14.99 per month
There's a wealth of shows and films to check out on Disney+ after you sign up. If you want some help finding something to watch, check out our roundups of the 12 best TV shows for adults on Disney+ and the 20 best movies on Disney+ to start building out your watchlist.
SAVE $40: As of May 1, the Hisense 75-inch Class U6HF Series TV is on sale for $529.99 at Amazon. That's a 7% saving on the list price.
Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense 75-Inch Class U6HF Series $529.99 at AmazonDeals on TVs are always a good excuse to upgrade, and when we're talking about a TV like the Hisense 75-inch Class U6HF Series, saying no is near impossible.
The Hisense 75-inch Class U6HF Series is down to its lowest-ever price on Amazon. As of May 1, this impressive Tmodel is priced at $529.99.
SEE ALSO: Score the Hisense 75-inch Class A7 Series TV at its lowest price yetFor this price, you're getting a seriously impressive TV. It's equipped with ULED technology, which improves color, contrast, brightness, and motion handling compared to standard LED TVs. It uses Quantum Dot for better color accuracy and supports Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HDR10 Plus for high dynamic range content.
The TV has up to 600 nits of peak brightness and 220 local dimming zones for more precise lighting control. It runs on Fire TV, so you can stream from apps like Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video without needing a separate device, like a Fire TV Stick. It has a 60Hz native refresh rate, a 240 motion rate, and HDMI 2.1 with eARC.
It even comes with Alexa built in, controlled from a voice remote. It also includes Bluetooth for wireless audio connections.
Considering an upgrade yet? Head to Amazon to secure this record-low price.
Another day, another borderline nonsensical interview with the president of the United States.
It was only recently that Donald Trump's bizarre Time interview transcript went viral, but it's already been overtopped by a new interview — this time a sit-down, on-camera talk with ABC's Terry Moran, during which Trump tried repeatedly to convince the journalist that a clearly photoshopped image was, in fact, real.
"Now I understand why he's so proud of that Gulf of America poster. He thinks 'Gulf of America's actually written on top of the water!" says Daily Show host Desi Lydic in the clip above.
"What is so crazy is Terry Moran kept trying to change topics, but Trump wouldn't let him," Lydic continues. "I have never seen an interview where a reporter catches a politician in a gotcha and the politician is the one who says, 'Stop trying to move on! I am not done embarrassing myself!'"
Star Wars Day is an unofficial holiday celebrated every year on May 4 — as in, "May the 4th" (as in, "May the Force be with you"). And every year, we see retailers release limited-time discounts and product launches in honor of the geeky occasion.
In 2025, May the 4th happens to coincide with the 20th anniversary of Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith, which was back in theaters for a short run in late April. As such, a lot of this year's releases embrace the Dark Side. (Is there anything that can't be turned into some variation of Darth Vader's helmet? Apparently not.)
SEE ALSO: All 12 Star Wars movies, ranked from worst to bestBelow, we're keeping a running list of all the best May the 4th sales and drops from across the web. It must be said: These are the deals you're looking for.
The Lego Store — shop new sets and score some freebiesThe Lego Store's busy Star Wars Day programming runs in stores and online from May 1 to 5. It's headlined by the release of several brand-new sets, including a 2,970-piece build of bounty hunter Jango Fett's starship (the latest addition to Lego's Ultimate Collector Series):
Lego Star Wars Jango Fett's Firespray-Class Starship — $299.99
Lego Star Wars Jango Fett Helmet — $69.99
Lego Star Wars Kylo Ren Helmet — $69.99
Lego Star Wars BrickHeadz Revenge of the Sith Heroes and Villains — $49.99
Lego Star Wars BrickHeadz Luke Skywalker (Rebel Pilot) — $9.99
Shoppers who spend a certain amount of money on these or other Lego Star Wars sets can snag some exclusive freebies from the Lego Store, so long as they're signed up for its Lego Insiders rewards program. (It's free to join.) Starting May 1, purchases of $40 or more come with a free Millennium Falcon Mini-Build worth $4.99, and purchases of $160 or more unlock a free Kamino Training Facility set worth $29.99.
If you live near a Lego Store, swing by on Sunday, May 4 from 12 to 2 p.m. local time for a free make-and-take Grogu model.
Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Store Lego Store Star Wars Day sale Shop Now Casetify — shop new Star Wars tech accessoriesCasetify is expanding its Star Wars collab with a new "Rebellion and Empire" collection packed with limited-edition designs for gadget cases, chargers, and charms. The (Death) star of the lineup is definitely the $138 Darth Vader AirPods Case Collector's Edition, which can play ominous breathing sound effects at the touch of a button. Prices start at $32.
Opens in a new window Credit: Casetify Star Wars x Casetify: Rebellion and Empire Shop Now Funko — buy two Star Wars items, get one freeThe pop culture collectible company's online store has an extensive line of Star Wars-themed Funko Pop! figurines, including exclusive vinyl bobbleheads of the Mandalorian (with Grogu), Darth Vader, Rey Skywalker, Kylo Ren, and Admiral Ackbar. Add three items to your cart, and you'll get the cheapest one for free. Prices start at just $3.
Opens in a new window Credit: Funko Funko May the 4th sale Shop Now Nanoleaf — save on select lighting kits, including new Star Wars bundlesNanoleaf's Star Wars Day sale features two new limited-edition smart lighting bundles that build into the shapes of Yoda and R2-D2 — a subtle way to rep your fandom in an office or gaming room. The sale runs through May 5, and prices start at $7.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: Nanoleaf Nanoleaf May the 4th sale Shop NowIn just over a decade, content creators have gone from digital outliers to industry power brokers. What began as a side hustle has evolved into a new form of celebrity — portable, profitable, and deeply in tune with audiences in ways traditional entertainment still struggles to match. And they’re not just behind the ring lights anymore; they’re headlining movies, writing screenplays, and directing studio-backed projects.
SEE ALSO: How content creators are redefining Hollywood's power structureYou’ve seen them on your For You page, and now, you’re seeing them on your screen. Here are the creators shaping the new face of Hollywood:
Lilly Singh Credit: Zain bin Awais/Mashable Composite; Frazer Harrison/Zeynep Uyanik/via Getty ImagesLilly Singh used her quick comedic timing and cultural commentary to dominate YouTube before breaking late-night TV barriers as the host of A Little Late with Lilly Singh, later branching into acting in shows like The Muppets Mayhem and Dollface.
Bo Burnham Credit: Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images for DGABo Burnham began as a sharp-witted teenager posting musical comedy on YouTube in 2006 and has since evolved into a multi-hyphenate creative force — writing and directing the Sundance hit Eighth Grade, performing introspective specials, and acting in Oscar-winning films like Promising Young Woman.
Colleen Ballinger Credit: Leon Bennett/Getty ImagesColleen Ballinger turned her satirical alter ego Miranda Sings into a full-blown phenomenon, eventually bringing the cringe-comedy character to life in Netflix’s scripted series Haters Back Off, a rare transition from YouTube sketch to streaming original.
Grace Helbig & Hannah Hart Credit: Charley Gallay/SAs 2014/Getty Images for DCPOnce DIY queens of YouTube comedy, Grace Helbig and Hannah Hart channeled their quirky chemistry into feature-length films like Camp Takota and a modern reboot of Electra Woman and Dyna Girl, proving their comedic chops beyond the platform.
Mamrie Hart Credit: Theo Wargo/Getty ImagesMamrie Hart, known for her boozy YouTube series and unfiltered humor, co-wrote and starred in millennial cult comedies like Camp Takota and Dirty 30, showing how creator-led stories could resonate on screen.
Shawn Mendes Credit: Frank Hoensch/Redferns via Getty ImagesShawn Mendes first gained attention on Vine with heartfelt acoustic covers, and quickly built a successful music career with pop singles like "Stitches," "Treat You Better," "There's Nothing Holdin' Me Back," and "Señorita." His smooth transition into acting began with a leading voice and music role in the family film Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile, showcasing his range beyond the stage.
King Bach (Andrew Bachelor) Credit: Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty ImagesKing Bach (Andrew Bachelor), once the undisputed king of Vine — he holds the Guinness World Record for the most Vine followers with over 16 million — flipped short-form comedy into a prolific acting career, racking up credits in The Babysitter, Greenland, and To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before. And according to him, making the jump from smartphone feeds to the big screen was always part of his master plan.
Liza Koshy Credit: Noam Galai/Getty Images for Global CitizenLiza Koshy went from physical comedy and skits on Vine and YouTube to starring roles in Netflix’s Work It, voiceovers in blockbuster franchises like Transformers, and hosting duties across major networks.
Lele Pons Credit: Christopher Polk/Billboard via Getty ImagesLele Pons parlayed her slapstick Vine persona into reality-style storytelling, starring in her own docuseries, The Secret Life of Lele Pons, and competing on Dancing with the Stars, blending digital and traditional fame.
Addison Rae Credit: Zain bin Awais/Mashable Composite; Paul Morigi/Leonidovich/via Getty ImagesAddison Rae danced her way to TikTok superstardom and caught Hollywood’s attention with a multimillion-dollar Netflix deal, launching her acting career in the teen rom-com He’s All That while also exploring a pop music path.
Charli D’Amelio Credit: Bruce Glikas/Getty ImagesCharli D’Amelio, once the reigning queen of TikTok dance trends, has built a multi-faceted career — starring in Hulu’s The D’Amelio Show, winning Dancing with the Stars, voicing animated characters, and recently making her Broadway debut in &Juliet.
Bella Poarch Credit: Christopher Polk/Billboard via Getty ImagesBella Poarch went viral with expressive lip-syncs on TikTok and is now carving a path in music with tracks like "Build a Bitch" and "Dolls," blending striking visuals and empowerment-driven themes. Her creative vision extends beyond music into fashion, recently debuting a bold HUGO capsule collection inspired by her EP.
Issa Rae Credit: Julia Beverly/Getty ImagesIssa Rae took the raw honesty of her YouTube series Awkward Black Girl and transformed it into the award-winning HBO hit Insecure, establishing herself as a Hollywood powerhouse with roles in Barbie, The Photograph, and a growing slate of productions.
Quinta Brunson Credit: Kevin Winter/Getty ImagesQuinta Brunson began as a viral sketch comedian at BuzzFeed and Instagram, then skyrocketed to mainstream acclaim as the creator, writer, and star of the Emmy-winning series Abbott Elementary.
Donald Glover Credit: Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty ImagesDonald Glover started with online sketches as part of Derrick Comedy, then rewrote the rules of modern storytelling as the creator of Atlanta. He also starred in major franchises like Solo: A Star Wars Story and reinvented himself musically as Childish Gambino.
Markiplier (Mark Fischbach) Credit: Daniel Zuchnik/Getty ImagesA YouTube giant known for his gaming videos and interactive series like In Space with Markiplier, Markiplier is now moving behind the camera with his feature film directorial debut Iron Lung, proving his storytelling talents extend well beyond Let’s Plays.
Rudy Mancuso Credit: Zain bin Awais/Mashable Composite; DBenitostock/Cindy Ord/via Getty ImagesRudy Mancuso went from music-infused sketches on Vine and YouTube to starring in and directing his own feature film, Música, showcasing his talents as a storyteller, actor, and musician with a unique comedic voice.
Noah Beck Credit: Edward Berthelot/Getty ImagesFirst rising to fame through TikTok’s golden era with his athletic charm and choreographed trends, Noah Beck has since stepped into the spotlight as a model, reality personality, and actor, with a starring role in the upcoming teen film The QB Bad Boy and Me.
Chloe Cherry Credit: Gregg DeGuire/Variety via Getty ImagesOriginally gaining attention on adult content platforms and social media, Chloe Cherry made a striking mainstream debut as Faye in HBO’s Euphoria, where her deadpan delivery and screen presence earned her critical and fan acclaim.
Yasmin Finney Credit: Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty ImagesYasmin Finney, who captivated TikTok with her trans advocacy and charisma, became a breakout star in Netflix’s Heartstopper and was cast as Rose in the Doctor Who universe — a groundbreaking moment for representation in the long-running franchise.
Bel Priestley Credit: Dave Benett/Getty Images for Warner MusicBel Priestley built a loyal following through TikTok and YouTube by sharing her trans journey and fashion-forward perspective, leading to her acting debut in Season 2 of Netflix’s beloved teen drama Heartstopper.
Kalen Allen Credit: Jamie McCarthy/GA/The Hollywood Reporter via Getty ImagesKalen Allen gained viral fame with hilarious YouTube reaction videos before proving his versatility as an actor in An American Pickle, A Black Lady Sketch Show, and multiple streaming features including Meet Me Next Christmas.
Alan Chikin Chow Credit: Gregg DeGuire/Variety via Getty ImagesAlan Chikin Chow became a standout in the fast-paced world of YouTube Shorts, developing his own comedy universe and scoring roles in series like Grey’s Anatomy and Into the Dark, while also creating his own projects like Alan’s Universe.
Elsa Majimbo Credit: Zain bin Awais/Mashable Composite; Wellmony/Paras Griffin/via Getty ImagesElsa Majimbo turned her laid-back, sardonic humor into a global brand, landing roles in short films like Bitter Leaf and series like Yara Shahidi's Day Off, while continuing to explore storytelling across formats.
In 2025, the red carpet doesn’t just belong to movie stars anymore — it belongs to YouTubers, Twitch streamers, and TikTokkers-turned-Netflix leads. Hollywood has entered a new era where the most coveted currency isn’t box office numbers or awards season buzz, but follower counts, engagement rates, and the ability to move an audience with a single post.
As studios scramble to capture increasingly fractured attention, digital-native creators have become some of their safest bets. They arrive not only with talent but also with built-in fandoms — millions of subscribers who treat premiere dates like tour stops and merch drops. What used to be a gamble on an unknown actor is now a calculated investment in influence.
SEE ALSO: Hollywood's new stars were cast by the internetThe power balance is shifting. Many creators have already mastered storytelling, production, and marketing on their own terms. Now, with traditional media eager to tap into their reach, they’re negotiating roles, shaping projects, and even bypassing gatekeepers entirely. The question isn’t whether creators are Hollywood-ready — it’s whether Hollywood is still required at all.
The power of built-in audiences Credit: Jeffrey Hazelwood/Mashable Composite; Victoria Nigmatulina/Bill Diodato/adventtr/via Getty ImagesStudios aren’t casting creators just because they’re trendy; they’re making strategic business decisions. Online stars bring direct access to potential viewers, along with a proven ability to spark conversation. In an industry where marketing budgets often rival production costs, creators offer a compelling proposition: promotion baked into the talent itself.
According to a 2025 report from Digital Voices, user-generated content drives nine times more engagement than traditional brand messaging — a return on investment studios can’t afford to ignore, especially when there’s data that suggests millennials and Gen Z find social media content "more relevant than traditional TV shows and movies" and feel a stronger personal connection to social media creators than to actors and TV personalities. According to China Widener, vice chair of Deloitte LLP and U.S. technology, media and telecom leader, Gen Z spends “54 percent more time on their social platforms” than on traditional media platforms.
As the influence of creators continues to redefine the power structure of Hollywood, the traditional systems — built on big studios, agents, and A-list actors — are being forced to adapt. No longer is it enough for a film or TV show to simply rely on star power; increasingly, it’s the creators who build and engage their own audiences that studios are looking to tap into. The question now is: How do traditional power players navigate this shift?
Seth Schachner, managing director of Strat Americas and a veteran of the media and tech industries, has observed firsthand how this shift is leaving some studios a step behind. "The studios are maybe a little bit clueless about this... is Tom Cruise or Brad Pitt really appealing to the 20-somethings or Gen Z?" he says.
Casting decisions have evolved to reflect this logic. As early as 2018, The New York Post reported that films were being cast with "social media quotas" in mind — a practice that has only deepened. In a 2025 podcast interview, Stranger Things star Maya Hawke confirmed that producers now hand directors "a sheet with the amount of collective followers" they expect a cast to bring. As Tiffany Little Canfield, the casting director for Jon M. Chu's Wicked, put it plainly: "I see social media numbers as a type of fame. Just a new way to quantify fame."
That redefinition of fame has rewritten the talent pipeline. Viral reach now rivals, and sometimes outranks, traditional credentials when it comes to landing roles, partnerships, and even production deals. But follower count alone no longer guarantees success, or even relevance.
"Someone with 10 million followers isn’t necessarily a big deal anymore," says Lindsay Nead, founder and CEO of Parker Management, a leading digital talent management agency. "It really comes down to the analytics — who their audience is, where they’re located, how much they engage. A huge following might look good on paper, but if no one’s actually watching, there’s no value. It’s not just a numbers game; it’s a data game now."
That shift has created a new class of stars: influencers whose reach is measurable, monetizable, and undeniable.
In 2021, Addison Rae signed a multimillion-dollar deal with Netflix off the viral success of He’s All That. Harsh reviews didn’t matter; the movie topped global charts, thanks in large part to Rae’s 88 million TikTok followers. Charli D’Amelio followed a similar trajectory, moving from dance videos to Dancing with the Stars, a reality series of her own (The D’Amelio Show), a Broadway debut, and a guest spot on the upcoming Apple series The Studio. Emma Chamberlain’s ironic YouTube humor has translated into high-fashion campaigns, red-carpet hosting, and production credits. YouTube vlogger-turned-filmmaker Casey Neistat is back directing original content after launching one of the most influential daily vlog channels of the 2010s.
SEE ALSO: The business of being Victoria ParisAnd the next wave isn’t just in front of the camera. Creators like Quinta Brunson (Abbott Elementary) and Issa Rae (Insecure) began as viral stars; now they’re showrunners and producers shaping the future of scripted television. Even content houses like the Sway House and Hype House, once dismissed as Gen Z group projects, have launched production companies.
"The old rules don't always apply," Schachner says. Think of creators as self-sustaining ecosystems: They write the scripts, build the audiences, and monetize directly, often without traditional gatekeepers.
Rather than hiring creators to promote a finished product, studios are increasingly bringing them on from day one, not just as stars, but as producers, writers, and world-builders. As Nead notes, after a wave of short-term campaigns, the industry is now swinging back toward long-term collaboration. "We’re definitely seeing a resurgence of longer-term partnerships," she says. "It’s more important than ever — both for impact and authenticity." That shift reflects a growing recognition that creators aren’t just promotional tools; they’re creative partners who understand their audiences better than anyone.
Studios want loyalty, not just reach. Micro-influencers with tight-knit communities are now prized above macro-names with passive followings. In this economy, engagement isn’t just a stat — it’s leverage.
"The most successful projects are the ones where creators are brought in from the beginning," Nead says. "They’re not just hired hands anymore — they’re shaping the direction, the creative, the entire vision. The industry is starting to realize that when you give creators ownership, you get better content."
For many creators, especially those from underrepresented communities, social media has become a launchpad not just for visibility but for legitimacy. Bypassing traditional casting calls and industry gatekeeping, creators have used their platforms to tell the stories Hollywood overlooked — and to prove there’s an audience for them. It’s a path that’s allowed queer voices, BIPOC talent, and disabled creators to build influence on their own terms, then carry that cultural capital into rooms that once ignored them.
YouTuber-turned-filmmaker Eugene Lee Yang, known for his work with The Try Guys, used digital media to explore queer identity and now develops projects that foreground LGBTQ+ storytelling. Drea Okeke (@dreaknowsbest) built a massive following through comedic skits rooted in her Nigerian-American upbringing — and parlayed that into brand deals, speaking gigs, writing opportunities, and a part in the Fuse Original Series We Need to Talk About America. Former Vine star Rudy Mancuso recently directed and starred in Musica, a feature-length film based on his life and Latinx heritage. And TikTok comedian Zarna Garg is currently starring in the Mindy Kaling-backed film A Nice Indian Boy.
These aren’t one-off success stories; they’re proof that creators from marginalized backgrounds aren’t waiting for permission. They’re building influence on their own terms, then carrying that cultural capital into rooms that once ignored them.
"The opportunity that exists now is so powerful," Nead says. "Creators have a better shot at doing things on their own terms than ever before."
The culture-makers of now Credit: Jeffrey Hazelwood/Mashable Composite; Richard Darko/Larry Lee/via Getty ImagesCreators are no longer just part of the zeitgeist; they are the zeitgeist. A single TikTok can sell out a lipstick, resurrect a ‘90s fashion trend, or send a decades-old song back up the charts. Alix Earle’s recommendation of a drugstore eyeliner triggered a viral sellout moment dubbed the #AlixEarleEffect. Influencer Monet McMichael’s honest beauty reviews and Sofia Richie Grainge’s minimalist "quiet luxury" aesthetic have each generated millions of views and shifted entire consumer trends, often without even trying.
But the power that creators wield is being met with growing scrutiny. Gen Z audiences are getting savvier, and a little more cynical, about over-curated lifestyles and brand-heavy content. "The end of the influencer era may finally have arrived," declared a recent New York Post op-ed, pointing to a shift toward creators who feel more real, raw, and reflective of everyday lives.
Authenticity is the new algorithm hack. The creators making the most impact today have "a super clear, unique voice," Nead says, offering a perspective and a relationship with their audience that feels unscripted.
A growing industry, still without guardrailsYet behind the ring lights and revenue streams lies an industry still defining its rules, especially when it comes to young talent. As more families turn social media into a livelihood, questions are mounting around labor, consent, and exploitation. Netflix’s The Dark Side of Kidfluencing and other recent exposés have shed light on the blurred lines between childhood and content creation, and the lack of protections in place.
There’s precedent here: It took decades (and the Coogan Law) for Hollywood to implement child labor protections. The creator economy, now facing a similar reckoning, is still largely self-regulated. Burnout, blurred boundaries, and a lack of oversight remain endemic, particularly among teen and tween creators.
Some change is slowly underway. Lawmakers in states like Illinois, Utah, and California are exploring creator-specific labor laws, while SAG-AFTRA is assessing how to adapt traditional union protections to include digital-native performers. Most recently, the union launched an Influencer Committee to advocate for fair pay, contract transparency, and protections against exploitation in the creator economy, including potential benefits like health insurance and pensions. It’s a signal that legacy institutions are beginning to take influencers seriously as workers.
But in most cases, the burden still falls on creators — and their families — to self-police, set boundaries, and build sustainable careers in a system not built to protect them.
A new era of fame Credit: Jeffrey Hazelwood/Mashable Composite; TebNad/JdawnInk/via Getty ImagesAs the lines between creator and celebrity blur — and between platform and production company collapse — one thing is clear: influence is no longer a side hustle. It’s a career path, a cultural force, and increasingly, a source of power. Hollywood used to make stars. Now it recruits them from the internet: already followed, already fully formed.
"If they’re not forward-thinking about how to integrate creators into their strategy, I don’t know how they’re going to keep up," says Nead. "Traditional media just isn’t what it once was. It’s time to evolve or risk being left behind."
The rules have changed, and the people writing them are holding the cameras themselves.
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