South Sudan faces turmoil as former officials arrested in wave of detentions JOSEPH FALZETTA and DENG MACHOL Sat, February 28, 2026 at 4:55 PM UTC 0 FILE South Sudan's President Salva Kiir attends the swearingin ceremony for Kenya's new president William Ruto, at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya on Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga, File) () JUBA, South Sudan (AP) — A former South Sudan finance minister is the latest former government official arrested in a wave of detentions that analysts say shows cracks in the government of President Salva Kiir, who also faces an armed rebellion.

South Sudan faces turmoil as former officials arrested in wave of detentions

JOSEPH FALZETTA and DENG MACHOL Sat, February 28, 2026 at 4:55 PM UTC

FILE - South Sudan's President Salva Kiir attends the swearing-in ceremony for Kenya's new president William Ruto, at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya on Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga, File) ()

JUBA, South Sudan (AP) — A former South Sudan finance minister is the latest former government official arrested in a wave of detentions that analysts say shows cracks in the government of President Salva Kiir, who also faces an armed rebellion.

The latest arrest came Friday when Bak Barnaba Chol was taken into custody while attempting to cross the border into Uganda. His arrest followed that of another former minister of finance and planning, Marial Dongrin Ater, who was fired in August.

In the past week, a former central bank governor, a former undersecretary for the ministry of petroleum, and a general in the domestic intelligence agency previously posted to the same ministry have been detained.

The exact reasons for the arrests remain unclear.

Government spokesman Ateny Wek Ateny told local media outlet Eye Radio that the arrests were "not political" and were a "direct response to irregularities identified within the monetary system." He said that a committee was investigating "financial malpractices."

Edmund Yakani, a prominent civic leader, said Saturday that the mood in Juba was tense among politicians fearing detention. "So far, these arrests have mostly targeted financial institutions, but if the arrests carry into the security sectors it will be very dangerous," he said.

Daniel Akech of the International Crisis Group said the arrests showed a narrowing of the president's "big tent" coalition, which he has relied on for years to maintain control of a fractured political landscape.

The war in Sudan is hurting South Sudan's economy, which is overwhelmingly dependent on oil exports. All of South Sudan's oil flows through pipelines in Sudan.

Since the South Sudan war began in 2023, pipeline ruptures have at times put more than 60% of oil production offline. The World Bank estimates that South Sudan's economy shrunk 24% in 2025.

In 2024, the International Crisis Group warned that the disruption of oil production could lead to much wider political violence as Kiir runs out of petrodollars "to keep South Sudan's rivalrous generals and warlords on his side."

The regime is already facing an armed rebellion. Opposition leader Riek Machar is under house arrest and on trial for alleged subversion, charges he denies. Many of his allies have since been arrested or purged from the government. Kiir suspended Machar as his deputy in September after Machar faced criminal charges.

Machar's removal coincided with a sharp increase in violence. The U.N. estimates that thousands were killed in 2025 and 280,000 people have been displaced since December.

A U.N. inquiry has found that South Sudan's leaders are "systematically dismantling" the 2018 peace agreement, signed to end a civil war and return Machar to a unity government with Kiir. Washington is urging peace talks again.

___

Falzetta reported from Nairobi, Kenya.

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South Sudan faces turmoil as former officials arrested in wave of detentions

South Sudan faces turmoil as former officials arrested in wave of detentions JOSEPH FALZETTA and DENG MACHOL Sat, Feb...

Soldiers on the streets. What&x27;s behind South Africa&x27;s plan to deploy army in highcrime areas MICHELLE GUMEDESat, February 28, 2026 at 4:07 AM UTC 0 1 / 0South Africa Army Deployment ExplainerFILE South African Defense Forces patrol downtown Johannesburg, South Africa, March 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Jerome Delay, File) () JOHANNESBURG (AP) — It's an unusual move for the African continent's leading democracy: South Africa's president announced earlier this month that he will deploy the army to highcrime areas to fight the scourge of organized crime, gang violence and illegal mining.

Soldiers on the streets. What's behind South Africa's plan to deploy army in high-crime areas

MICHELLE GUMEDESat, February 28, 2026 at 4:07 AM UTC

1 / 0South Africa Army Deployment ExplainerFILE - South African Defense Forces patrol downtown Johannesburg, South Africa, March 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Jerome Delay, File) ()

JOHANNESBURG (AP) — It's an unusual move for the African continent's leading democracy: South Africa's president announced earlier this month that he will deploy the army to high-crime areas to fight the scourge of organized crime, gang violence and illegal mining.

President Cyril Ramaphosa said soldiers would take to the streets — in places that have some of the world's highest rates of violent crime — to combat what he described as the "most immediate threat" to South Africa's democracy and economic development.

He said the deployment would happen in three of the country's nine provinces, without giving a timeline. Some critics, however, say the army deployment could be seen as an admission that Ramaphosa's government is losing the battle.

A top tourist city marred by violence

With a population of some 3.8 million, the stunningly beautiful Cape Town is South Africa's second-largest city and one of its top tourist attractions.

But the neighborhoods on its outskirts, known as the Cape Flats, are notorious for deadly gang violence.

Street gangs with names such as the Americans, the Hard Livings and the Terrible Josters have for years battled for control of the illegal drug trade, while also being involved in extortion rackets, prostitution and contract killings.

Bystanders, including children, are often caught in the crossfire and killed in gang-related shootings. According to the latest crime statistics, South Africa's three police precincts with the most serious crime rates are all in and around Cape Town.

Ramaphosa said one part of the army would deploy in the Western Cape province, where Cape Town is located and which statistics say has around 90% of the country's gang-related killings.

Two other provinces, he said, would also see troop deployments: Gauteng, which is home to Johannesburg, South Africa's biggest city, and the Eastern Cape province.

Illegal mining run by organized crime syndicates

The outskirts of Johannesburg and the wider Gauteng province are dotted with abandoned mine shafts and authorities there have long grappled with illegal gold mining.

They say the mining gang, known as zama zamas, are typically run by heavily armed crime syndicates, brutal in protecting their operations. They use "informal miners" recruited from desperate and impoverished communities to go into the shafts, searching for leftover precious deposits.

These gangs are often connected to high-profile violence, including a 2022 case that shocked South Africa when around 80 alleged illegal miners were accused of gang raping eight women who were part of a music video shoot at an abandoned mine.

Last year, a standoff between police and illegal miners in an abandoned mine left at least 87 miners dead after police took a hard-line approach and cut off their food supplies in an attempt to force them out.

The illegal miners are often involved in other crimes in nearby communities, analysts say, and turf battles between rival gangs have forced people to leave their homes and seek safety elsewhere.

Authorities say there are an estimated 30,000 illegal miners in South Africa, operating in some of its 6,000 abandoned mine shafts.

The government has noted an increase in illegal mining, which it estimates is worth more than $4 billion a year in gold lost to criminal syndicates.

The trade is believed to be predominantly controlled by migrants from neighboring Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique, stoking anger among South African communities against both the criminal bosses and foreigners living in the local community.

Previous army deployments linked to apartheid

Ramaphosa is well aware that South Africans old enough to remember the years of forced racial segregation under the apartheid system, which ended in 1994, likely will recall images of troops deployed to suppress pro-democracy protests.

Mindful of that painful past, he said it was important not to deploy the army "without a good reason."

But he said it has now "become necessary due to a surge in violent organized crime that threatens the safety of our people and the authority of the state."

Ramaphosa sought to calm concerns by saying the army would operate under police command.

There have been other recent deployments of South African troops. In 2023, soldiers fanned out into the streets after a series of truck burnings raised concerns over wider public disorder. And around 25,000 troops were deployed in 2021 to quell violent riots sparked by the imprisonment of former President Jacob Zuma.

South Africa also used soldiers to enforce strict lockdown rules during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

Crime experts have expressed concern over Ramaphosa's latest deployment plans, insisting the army is not a long-term solution to fighting crime and soldiers are not experts in domestic law enforcement.

Firoz Cachalia, the country's police minister, has backed Ramaphosa and insisted the army will act in support of police and "their operations in particular locations."

He said the deployment is time-limited and meant to stabilize areas "where people are losing their lives" every day.

___

writer Mogomotsi Magome in Johannesburg contributed to this report.

___

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Soldiers on the streets. What's behind South Africa's plan to deploy army in high-crime areas

Soldiers on the streets. What&x27;s behind South Africa&x27;s plan to deploy army in highcrime areas MICHELLE G...

Spanish feminist targeted by AI fakes wants stricter online regulations By David LatonaSat, February 28, 2026 at 8:59 AM UTC 0 Spanish influencer Carla Galeote poses for a photo, in Madrid, Spain, February 26, 2026. Galeote, who suffered online abuse including AIgenerated fake nude images, says the Spanish government's vows to regulate social media came late and should enforce the traceability of anonymous accounts to end impunity for crime.

Spanish feminist targeted by AI fakes wants stricter online regulations

By David LatonaSat, February 28, 2026 at 8:59 AM UTC

Spanish influencer Carla Galeote poses for a photo, in Madrid, Spain, February 26, 2026. Galeote, who suffered online abuse including AI-generated fake nude images, says the Spanish government's vows to regulate social media came late and should enforce the traceability of anonymous accounts to end impunity for crime.?REUTERS/David Latona

By David Latona

MADRID, Feb 27 (Reuters) - A Spanish women's rights activist who suffered online abuse, including AI-generated fake nude images, said the government's ‌pledge to regulate social media does not go far enough, calling ‌for anonymous accounts to be made traceable to end impunity for digital violence.

As Europe's push to rein in U.S.-based tech giants is shifting from fines and takedown notices to stiffer measures, Madrid wants to impose a ban on under-16s accessing social media and criminal liability for platform executives who fail to remove illegal or hateful content.

France, Greece ‌and Poland are weighing similar ⁠measures after Australia became the first country to block social media for children under 16 in December.

Carla Galeote, a 25-year-old lawyer ⁠and prominent online feminist commentator, told Reuters governments were reacting only now because digital violence had become impossible to ignore, although the problem predated AI.

"Social media isn't new - and the violence is brutal, systematic, 24/7," Galeote said. "What hit me hardest wasn't the ‌deepfake, it was going to the police and being told it wasn't even a crime."

She dismissed plans to ban children from social media as "paternalistic", arguing all users, regardless of age, need protection from digital abuse.

Spain's proposed law has sparked backlash from tech company executives, who accuse Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez of threatening free ‌speech. Galeote, however, believes regulation and freedom of expression can coexist.

"It's impossible to think that a man on the street could shout that they'll rape you and nothing happens, but ‌that's what we're seeing online," she said.

Instead of imposing easily absorbable fines, Galeote advocated barring platforms from major markets, like the European Union, for repeated violations.

While defending pseudonymous online use, Galeote emphasized the need for traceable identities behind all ‌accounts.

"Call yourself 'PeppaPig88' if you want - fine. But there has to be a real identity behind that account," she said.

(Reporting by David Latona; Editing by Aislinn Laing and Andrei Khalip)

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New Photo - Selena Gomez's Husband Spills Which Celebrity Officiated Their Wedding

Selena Gomez's Husband Spills Which Celebrity Officiated Their WeddingChhavi PuriSat, February 28, 2026 at 9:03 AM UTC 0 Photo Credit: Kevin Mazur/Getty Images While fans loved every detail they got to see from Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco's wedding, the intimate nature of the celebration meant many moments were kept private. The couple tied the knot on September 27, 2025, in Santa Barbara, with around 170 guests in attendance.

Selena Gomez's Husband Spills Which Celebrity Officiated Their WeddingChhavi PuriSat, February 28, 2026 at 9:03 AM UTC

Photo Credit: Kevin Mazur/Getty Images

While fans loved every detail they got to see from Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco's wedding, the intimate nature of the celebration meant many moments were kept private. The couple tied the knot on September 27, 2025, in Santa Barbara, with around 170 guests in attendance.

Recently, Blanco revealed a fun behind-the-scenes detail during an appearance on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" He spilled the beans about which celebrity officiated their wedding — and it turned out to be none other than Dave Burd, best known by his stage name, Lil Dicky.

Benny Blanco shares Lil Dicky officiated his and Selena Gomez's wedding

Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco's wedding was a big affair. The couple tied the knot in California in an intimate ceremony, with many A-listers, including Taylor Swift, Paris Hilton, Ed Sheeran, and many more, attending the nuptials.

The record producer recently appeared on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" alongside Dave Burd, who goes by the stage name Lil Dicky. During the conversation, Kimmel noted that both celebrities had gotten married recently. He then asked whether Burd and Blanco had played active roles in each other's weddings.

The "Save Dat Money" hitmaker shared that they were "heavily involved" on one another's big days. He added that he officiated the wedding of Gomez and Blanco. Burd continued, "He gave the speech from like my male point of view at my wedding, and it was great."

During the show, Blanco said that Burd officiating the wedding was "incredible" and "unbelievable." However, there was a small hiccup. The record producer shared that before the ceremony, Gomez called him and asked him to make sure Burd's speech didn't overlap with hers.

Blanco said, "She was going over her speech, and she said, 'Hey, just make sure Dave doesn't say anything about this part or this part because it's part of my speech.' And that was the whole opening three minutes of his speech." Burd jokingly added that he "wanted to push back, but it was her wedding."

The rapper added that he had a vague idea of how he wanted to start the speech. However, he had to rewrite the opening. This was because there was one part that the Rare Beauty founder didn't want included because it was part of her vows. "But it really turned out great," exclaimed Burd.

The post Selena Gomez's Husband Spills Which Celebrity Officiated Their Wedding appeared first on Reality Tea.

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Selena Gomez’s Husband Spills Which Celebrity Officiated Their Wedding

Selena Gomez's Husband Spills Which Celebrity Officiated Their WeddingChhavi PuriSat, February 28, 2026 at 9:03 AM...

New Photo - Survivor 50, Connor Storrie hosting SNL, and Scream 7 top this week's Must List

Mitski's &34;Nothing's About to Happen to Me&34; and &34;The Unknown&34; round out our picks for the weekend of Feb. 27. Survivor 50, Connor Storrie hosting SNL, and Scream 7 top this week's Must List Mitski's &34;Nothing's About to Happen to Me&34; and &34;The Unknown&34; round out our picks for the weekend of Feb. 27. By Tiffany Kelly Tiffany Kelly Tiffany Kelly is a staff editor at . She has been working at EW since 2024. Her work has previously appeared in the Los Angeles Times, Wired, GQ, and Ars Technica. EW's editorial guidelines February 27, 2026 4:43 p.m.

Mitski's "Nothing's About to Happen to Me" and "The Unknown" round out our picks for the weekend of Feb. 27.

Survivor 50, Connor Storrie hosting SNL, and Scream 7 top this week's Must List

Mitski's "Nothing's About to Happen to Me" and "The Unknown" round out our picks for the weekend of Feb. 27.

By Tiffany Kelly

Tiffany Kelly

Tiffany Kelly is a staff editor at **. She has been working at EW since 2024. Her work has previously appeared in the Los Angeles Times, Wired, GQ, and Ars Technica.

EW's editorial guidelines

February 27, 2026 4:43 p.m. ET

Must List collage featuring Mike White on 'Survivor,' Neve Campbell in 'Scream 7,' and Connor Storrie

Mike White on 'Survivor,' Neve Campbell in 'Scream 7,' and Connor Storrie. Credit:

Gail Schulman/CBS; Jessica Miglio/Paramount Pictures; Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty Images

It's no secret that I'm a *Survivor* superfan. The only EW staffer who surpasses my fandom is the *Survivor* expert himself, Dalton Ross. He shares his love of the new season below, but he's also orchestrating our new, incredible *Survivor* Hub where you can vote in our daily bracket to determine the ultimate *Survivor* winner, play our *Survivor* trivia game, watch exclusive videos, participate in polls, join the conversation in our comments section, and enjoy live Q&As with Dalton and *Survivor* legends. —*Patrick Gomez, Editor-in-Chief***

***P.S. If you want to receive the Must List in your inbox, sign up for our " and Awardist" newsletters. You'll receive all three each week — the trifecta of entertainment news.***

Survivor 50

'Survivor 50' cast, including Tiffany Ervin, Mike White, Q Burdette, Kamilla Karthigesu, Jonathan Young, Dee Valladares, Charlie Davis, and Chrissy Hofbeck

'Survivor 50' cast, including Tiffany Ervin, Mike White, Q Burdette, Kamilla Karthigesu, Jonathan Young, Dee Valladares, Charlie Davis, and Chrissy Hofbeck.

Robert Voets/CBS

The landmark anniversary season of the reality competition series that started it all is finally in full swing, and the brutal battle for ultimate bragging rights has already claimed its first Tribal Council victim and seen its first big injury. Jeff Probst told EW that season 50 was "the most fun I've ever had on any season of *Survivor*." He credits that to the cast, noting: "This is the only returning player season where the players had real joy and gratitude for being invited back." And our joy and gratitude would skyrocket if a true wild card like Coach, Q, or Angelina can somehow find a way to pull it off. —*Dalton Ross, Editorial Director*

*Survivor 50* press members make their winner picks, and predict the players that might be in the most trouble**

Neve Campbell and Courteney Cox in 'Scream 7'

Neve Campbell and Courteney Cox in 'Scream 7'.

The absence of Sidney Prescott (now Evans) in the previous *Scream* movie is brought up several times in the latest installment. That alone tells you the trajectory for this new incarnation: a nostalgia-baked slasher whodunnit that often reminisces through Easter eggs about the glory days of '90s Neve Campbell, for better or worse. —*Nick Romano, Senior Editor*

Successor to *Scream*'s queen: Isabel May on playing Neve Campbell's daughter and carving her path through Hollywood**

Connor Storrie hosts SNL

Connor Storrie at Chateau Marmont on Jan. 7, 2026, in Los Angeles

Connor Storrie at Chateau Marmont on Jan. 7, 2026, in Los Angeles.

Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty

The *Heated Rivalry* star went from unknown to phenomenon in only a couple of months, and now he's hosting *Saturday Night Live* for the first time. With an impressive ability to do accents and a background in clowning, Storrie is made for this. —*Tiffany Kelly, Staff Editor*

*SNL* season 51 hosts: *Heated Rivalry*'s Connor Storrie debuts, Ryan Gosling returns, Harry Styles flies solo**

Mitski's Nothing's About to Happen to Me

Video still for "If I Leave" from Mitski's new album, 'Nothing's About to Happen to Me'

Mitski in the music video for 'If I Leave'.

Everyone's favorite creator of sad girl music is back with her eighth studio album. The single "Where's My Phone?" is the catchiest track, but "If I Leave" is a hauntingly beautiful song about contemplating the end of a relationship, accompanied by a creepy new music video. —*T.K.*

The Unknown

Sean Hayes in 'The Unknown'

Sean Hayes in 'The Unknown'.

Sean Hayes' one-man show at NYC's Studio Seaview is a psychological thriller in which the *Will & Grace* star tells a story while acting out all the key players involved. Hayes' incredible range makes the twisty tale, where all is not as it seems, even more engrossing. —*D.R.*

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Survivor 50, Connor Storrie hosting SNL, and Scream 7 top this week's Must List

Mitski's &34;Nothing's About to Happen to Me&34; and &34;The Unknown&34; round out our picks for the w...

New Photo - Why aren't Melissa Barrera and Jenna Ortega in Scream 7?

&34;Scream 7&34; will see the return of Neve Campbell's Sidney Prescott, but is notably missing rising stars from prior installments. Why aren't Melissa Barrera and Jenna Ortega in Scream 7? &34;Scream 7&34; will see the return of Neve Campbell's Sidney Prescott, but is notably missing rising stars from prior installments. By Randall Colburn :maxbytes(150000):stripicc()/RandallColburnauthorphotoe7e8b48d9f8645588439077e721a5f48.jpg) Randall Colburn Randall Colburn is a writer and editor at . His work has previously appeared on The A.V.

"Scream 7" will see the return of Neve Campbell's Sidney Prescott, but is notably missing rising stars from prior installments.

Why aren't Melissa Barrera and Jenna Ortega in Scream 7?

"Scream 7" will see the return of Neve Campbell's Sidney Prescott, but is notably missing rising stars from prior installments.

By Randall Colburn

Randall Colburn author photo

Randall Colburn

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February 27, 2026 7:00 a.m. ET

Why did Melissa Barrera leave Scream 7?

Melissa Barrera in 'Scream VI'

Melissa Barrera in 'Scream VI'.

Everett Collection

Barrera was fired from *Scream 7* in November 2023 after sharing a series of social media posts commenting on the Israel-Palestine conflict.**

In her posts, Barrera expressed support for the Palestinian cause, likened the Gaza Strip to a "concentration camp," per PEOPLE, and accused the Israeli government of "genocide & ethnic cleansing," according to *The Hollywood Reporter. *She also alleged that "Western media only shows the other side," adding, "Why they do that, I will let you deduce for yourself."**

Spyglass Media Group, the company behind *Scream* (2022), *Scream VI* (2024), and the upcoming *Scream 7*, defended its decision in a subsequent statement: "Spyglass' stance is unequivocally clear: We have zero tolerance for antisemitism or the incitement of hate in any form, including false references to genocide, ethnic cleansing, Holocaust distortion or anything that flagrantly crosses the line into hate speech."

Representatives for Paramount Pictures, which distributes the *Scream* movies, declined **'s request for comment at the time.

'Matthew Lillard 2.0': 'Scream 7' star on Stu Macher return and horror renaissance (exclusive)

Collage of Matthew Lillard

Billy's 'Scream' return was originally a trilogy turning daughter into killer, says Skeet Ulrich (exclusive)

Scream (2022) Melissa Barrera and Skeet Ulrich

Barrera quickly responded with a statement of her own. "First and foremost I condemn Anti-Semitism and Islamophobia. I condemn hate and prejudice of any kind against any group of people," she wrote. "As a Latina, a proud Mexicana, I feel the responsibility of having a platform that allows me the privilege of being heard, and therefore I have tried to use it to raise awareness about issues I care about and to lend my voice to those in need."

She continued, "Every person on this earth — regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation or socio-economic status — deserves equal human rights, dignity and, of course, freedom. I believe a group of people are NOT their leadership, and that no governing body should be above criticism. I pray day and night for no more deaths, for no more violence, and for peaceful co-existence."

Barrera added that she would "continue to advocate for peace and safety, for human rights and freedom. Silence is not an option for me."

What followed her firing, Barrera revealed in November 2024, was "the darkest and hardest year of my life."

But she doesn't regret speaking out. "You just gotta act according to how you preach," she told *The Independent*. "And that depends on what you value, what your morals are, and whether you can separate that from art or not."**

At the film's Feb. 25 premiere, protestors waving the Palestine flag gathered outside the Paramount Theatre in Los Angeles. Their aim, according to a press release, was to highlight "the industry's widespread silencing of pro-Palestinian voices and its whitewashing of Israel's ongoing genocide in Gaza."

"I see you," read Barrera's Instagram Story from that evening. Many interpreted the post as a show of solidarity with the protestors. ** reached out to Barrera's reps for further comment.**

Why did Jenna Ortega leave Scream 7?

Jenna Ortega (Tara Carpenter) stars in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group's "Scream VI."

Jenna Ortega in 'Scream VI'. Philippe BossÃ©/Paramount

Ortega's exit from the franchise made headlines just a day after news broke about Barrera's firing. While many surmised that it had something to do with Barrera's dismissal, initial reports said that it was due to a scheduling conflict with her Netflix series, *Wednesday.***

In an April 2025 interview with *The Cut*, Ortega said her departure had "nothing to do with pay or scheduling." Rather, she said, it had to do with the behind-the-scenes shakeups, including the exits of directors Gillett and Bettinelli-Olpin.

"The Melissa stuff was happening, and it was all kind of falling apart," Ortega explained. "If *Scream VII* wasn't going to be with that team of directors and those people I fell in love with, then it didn't seem like the right move for me in my career at the time."

Furthermore, she said she wanted to eschew franchise work to "prioritize new directors and original stories."

Spyglass Media Group declined EW's request for comment about Ortega's exit at the time.

Why did Scream 7's previous directors depart?

Christopher Landon

Christopher Landon. Albert L. Ortega/Getty Images

Bettinelli-Olpin and Gillett, who directed the last two *Scream* films, were set to helm *Scream 7*, but were forced to drop out in the summer of 2023 due to scheduling issues. The pair were prepping another film, *Abigail*, and its production schedule clashed with the studio's plans for *Scream 7*.

"We were like, 'We'll do it. We just can't do it in this window," Bettinelli-Olpin said in an interview for Ashley Cullins' *Your Favorite Scary Movie: How the Scream Films Rewrote the Rules of Horror. *"And it was a friendly and polite, 'Okay. moving on.' But it did sour us a bit, we're not gonna lie."

Gillett added, "We put it all on the f---in' line to make [*Scream VI]*, and then to not have *7* work for scheduling reasons, it's just, like, man, what a bummer."

Stepping in for the duo was *Happy Death Day* director Christopher Landon, though he lasted only a few months on the project. Landon announced his departure on Dec. 23, 2023, saying it was "a dream job that turned into a nightmare."

In *Your Favorite Scary Movie*, Landon said that he quit a week after Barrera's firing. "There was no movie anymore. The whole script was about her. I didn't sign on to make 'a *Scream* movie.' I signed on to make *that* movie. When that movie no longer existed, I moved on."

It didn't help that Landon found himself a target of those upset by Barrera's dismissal. After receiving death threats, he said, he chose to publicly announce his exit. "I made the decision to announce that I had left after the threats got too intense. They were all screaming at someone who wasn't even on the movie anymore," he said. "There were a lot of people who thought I was some sort of villain. That really got in my head. It was painful, and it was painful to lose a dream job in such a sudden and bizarre way."

Spyglass Media Group and Paramount Pictures did not respond to EW's request for comment at the time. **

***Get your daily dose of entertainment news, celebrity updates, and what to watch with our EW Dispatch newsletter.*****

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Why aren't Melissa Barrera and Jenna Ortega in Scream 7?

&34; Scream 7&34; will see the return of Neve Campbell's Sidney Prescott, but is notably missing rising stars fro...

New Photo - Yes, Amazon has tons of new Lego sets — we're talking a Project Hail Mary spaceship, Sauron's hel...

They're all available for preorder now. Yes, Amazon has tons of new Lego sets — we're talking a Project Hail Mary spaceship, Sauron's helmet, and more They're all available for preorder now. By Brittany Anas :maxbytes(150000):stripicc()/BrittanyAnasheadshot09d7b562bc654ce3adef1c6c16226c75.jpg) Brittany Anas is a lifestyle writer with more than 20 years of experience. She writes about entertainment and deals, as well as travel, food and beverage, and health and wellness. EW's editorial guidelines February 27, 2026 9:00 p.m.

They're all available for preorder now.

Yes, Amazon has tons of new Lego sets — we're talking a Project Hail Mary spaceship, Sauron's helmet, and more

They're all available for preorder now.

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February 27, 2026 9:00 p.m. ET

LEGO models featuring Winnie the Pooh a space rocket and a Batman emblem with related minifigures

Best new Lego pop culture-themed sets

- **Ryan Gosling in minifigure form!:** Lego Icons *Project Hail Mary* Spacecraft, $100

- **Smart Brick included:** Lego *Star Wars* Smart Play Darth Vader's TIE Fighter, $70

- **For *LOTR* fans:** Lego Icons *The Lord of the Rings* Sauron's Helmet, $70

- **Iconic starship, now with sound:** Lego *Star Wars* Smart Play Millennium Falcon, $100

- **Beginner-friendly Smart Brick build:** Lego *Star Wars* Smart Play Luke's Landspeeder, $40

- **Fun secrets hidden in the cake: **Lego Disney Winnie the Pooh Piglet's Birthday Fun, $40

- **Perfect for a nursery:** Lego Disney Winnie the Pooh, $150

- **Hangs on the wall:** Lego DC Batman Logo, $80

- **SnyderVerse throwback: **Lego DC *Batman vs. Superman* Batmobile, $30

From the whimsy of Winnie the Pooh's Hundred Acre Wood to the mythical Middle-earth of *The Lord of the Rings*, Lego's newest pop culture-inspired sets invite fans to recreate cinematic worlds brick by brick.

Timed to major releases like *Project Hail Mary* and featuring beloved classics like *Star Wars* and Batman, these kits range from display-worthy collectibles to interactive builds that come to life with the new Lego Smart Brick System. Ahead, we're spotlighting the best new Lego sets to preorder at Amazon ahead of their March 1 release — because we wouldn't be shocked if the most in-demand builds sell out quickly.

Lego Icons Project Hail Mary Spacecraft

*Project Hail Mary* blasts into theaters March 20, but fans can start the adventure early by building a microscale replica of the spacecraft ahead of the film's release. The sci-fi thriller follows junior high teacher Ryland Grace (played by Ryan Gosling), who wakes from a coma alone on a spaceship. The set comes with minifigures of Ryland and Rocky the alien.

Lego Star Wars Smart Play Darth Vader's TIE Fighter

This set includes the highly anticipated new Lego Smart Brick that triggers motion-activated lights and sounds to amp up every battle. Refuel at the starfighter and hear repair and refueling effects, activate engine sound effects, trigger laser blasts, and help the included Rebel Fleet Trooper fend off the Sith Lord with a dual-stud shooter.

What to know about Lego's Smart Play System

- Smart Play sets are activated by a new Smart Brick that plays sounds and emits lights based on how you play with the set.

- Sets marked **Smart Play All-in-One** include at least one interactive Smart Brick, while sets marked **Smart Play Compatible** don't include a Smart Brick but will work with them.

- Each Smart Brick comes with a charging pad.

Lego Disney Winnie the Pooh

LEGO Disney Winnie The Pooh Building Set

This cute build feels delightfully animated as you turn his head, move his ears, lift his arms, and adjust his hands to create a shelf-worthy display fit for a nursery. It includes his signature honey pot, which opens to reveal charming scenes and holds minifigures of Pooh and Eeyore.

Lego Icons The Lord of the Rings Sauron's Helmet

Build an impressive replica of Sauron's intimidating helmet, complete with a display stand, name plaque, and a minifigure clutching the One Ring. It would look great next to the Lego Balrog Book Nook set that was also recently released.

Lego Star Wars Smart Play Millennium Falcon

Bring the Millennium Falcon to life with the new Lego Smart Play technology by dropping in the Smart Brick (not included here but available in Darth Vader's TIE Fighter, Luke's Red Five X-Wing, and the Throne Room Duel & A-Wing) to unlock ship and crew sounds as they battle the Empire.

Lego Star Wars Smart Play Luke's Landspeeder

Bring Luke Skywalker's landspeeder to life with this set that has minifigures of Luke, a Jawa, and a Gonk Droid. Activate engine, hammer, and fueling noises when you connect it to a Smart Brick.

Lego Disney Winnie the Pooh Piglet's Birthday Fun

LEGO Disney Piglet's Birthday Fun Building Toy

This whimsical set includes an adorable Piglet figure wearing a birthday party hat, with poseable ears, adjustable feet, and liftable arms for playful display. The secret cake even opens to reveal charming scenes of Winnie the Pooh's house and the Hundred Acre Wood.

Lego DC Batman Logo

Like Lego's display-worthy takes on the *Star Wars* and Marvel logos, you can now build the iconic Batman logo. It comes with extras like a commemorative golden Batman minifigure and a classic Batman you can fit in the hidden Batcave vault, plus detachable Batarangs and a Harley Quinn hammer. Display it on the included stand or mount it on the wall.

Lego DC Batman v Superman Batmobile

LEGO DC Batman: Batman v Superman Batmobile Building Blocks Set

Patrol the streets of Gotham City with the Batmobile from Zack Snyder's *Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice*. This detailed build also includes a commemorative armored Batman minifigure and a special golden coin built right into the cockpit, which marks 20 years of Lego Batman builds.

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- Figures & Collectibles

Original Article on Source

Source: "EW Figures"

Source: Figures

Published: February 28, 2026 at 10:38PM on Source: RED MAG

#ShowBiz#Sports#Celebrities#Lifestyle

byRed Roads Media

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Yes, Amazon has tons of new Lego sets — we're talking a Project Hail Mary spaceship, Sauron’s hel...

They're all available for preorder now. Yes, Amazon has tons of new Lego sets — we're talking a Project Hail M...

New Photo - Zack Snyder defends Batman v. Superman and his die-hard fans: 'We were kicking the zeitgeist in t...

&34;They catch a lot of flak for being toxic or whatever, but they literally saved human lives,&34; the director said. &34;So you can go f yourself if that's what you think.&34; Zack Snyder defends Batman v. Superman and his diehard fans: 'We were kicking the zeitgeist in the nuts' &34;They catch a lot of flak for being toxic or whatever, but they literally saved human lives,&34; the director said. &34;So you can go f yourself if that's what you think.&34; By Wesley Stenzel :maxbytes(150000):stripicc()/WesleyStenzelauthorphoto32b61793a2784639af623f2ae091477e.

"They catch a lot of flak for being toxic or whatever, but they literally saved human lives," the director said. "So you can go f--- yourself if that's what you think."

Zack Snyder defends Batman v. Superman and his die-hard fans: 'We were kicking the zeitgeist in the nuts'

"They catch a lot of flak for being toxic or whatever, but they literally saved human lives," the director said. "So you can go f--- yourself if that's what you think."

By Wesley Stenzel

Wesley Stenzel

Wesley Stenzel is a news writer at **. He began writing for EW in 2022.

EW's editorial guidelines

February 28, 2026 3:17 p.m. ET

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&34;They catch a lot of flak for being toxic or whatever, but they literally saved human lives,&34; the director said....

New Photo - The 22 best bingeable miniseries streaming on Netflix

EW's picks range from sweeping romances like &34;Queen Charlotte&34; to tense crime dramas like &34;Adolescence&34; and &34;Griselda.&34; The 22 best bingeable miniseries streaming on Netflix EW's picks range from sweeping romances like &34;Queen Charlotte&34; to tense crime dramas like &34;Adolescence&34; and &34;Griselda.&34; By Janey Tracey and Kevin Jacobsen on December 1, 2025 6:41 a.m. ET :maxbytes(150000):stripicc()/netflixminiseriestout19208292024c5fd7498672e45ef8e36044e7305d21b.

EW's picks range from sweeping romances like "Queen Charlotte" to tense crime dramas like "Adolescence" and "Griselda."

The 22 best bingeable miniseries streaming on Netflix

EW's picks range from sweeping romances like "Queen Charlotte" to tense crime dramas like "Adolescence" and "Griselda."

By Janey Tracey and Kevin Jacobsen

on December 1, 2025 6:41 a.m. ET

Kaitlyn Dever as Marie Adler in 'Unbelievable'; Golda Rosheuvel as Queen Charlotte in 'Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story'; Sofía Vergara as Griselda Blanco in 'Griselda'

Kaitlyn Dever as Marie Adler in 'Unbelievable'; Golda Rosheuvel as Queen Charlotte in 'Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story'; Sofía Vergara as Griselda Blanco in 'Griselda'. Credit:

In the so-called "Golden Age of Television," miniseries have taken over, and streamers like Netflix have been at the forefront. True crime is perhaps the most notorious subgenre here, thanks to hard-hitting, auteur-driven shows like *When They See Us* and chaos-filled documentaries like *Wild Wild Country*. But there's a little something for everyone, from historical dramas like *Death by Lightning* to small-scale rom-com-drams like *One Day*, revisionist Westerns like *Godless,* and the elevated horror of the Flanaverse.

It wasn't easy to narrow it down, but here is **'s list of the 22 best miniseries on Netflix.

Adolescence (2025)

Owen Cooper as Jamie Miller in 'Adolescence'

Owen Cooper as Jamie Miller in 'Adolescence'.

Courtesy of Netflix

This four-part miniseries has become a TV unicorn since its March 2025 release, becoming a massive hit with viewers, achieving universal acclaim from critics, and earning eight Emmys (including Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series). *Adolescence* centers on a 13-year-old boy (Owen Cooper) accused of murdering a female classmate, deftly exploring the motive that led to the crime as well as the devastating impact it has on his family. Each episode takes place over the course of an hour and is filmed in one continuous take, from immersing us in the unnerving dread of the initial police interrogations to the sobering reality of his family left to ponder where they went wrong. It's gripping television, powered by masterful performances and urgent, economical storytelling. —*Kevin Jacobsen*

Where to watch *Adolescence*: Netflix

**Cast:** Stephen Graham, Owen Cooper, Ashley Walters, Erin Doherty, Faye Marsay, Christine Tremarco, Mark Stanley, Jo Hartley, Amélie Pease

Alias Grace (2017)

Sarah Gadon as Grace Marks in 'Alias Grace'

Sarah Gadon as Grace Marks in 'Alias Grace'. Jan Thijs/Netflix

If you're excited that female antiheroes are having a moment, then *Alias Grace* should be next on your watchlist. Created by *Women Talking *director Sarah Polley and directed by *American Psycho* helmer Mary Harron, *Alias Grace *follows Grace Marks (Sarah Gadon), a 19th-century maid who is in jail for allegedly murdering her employers. Like fellow Margaret Atwood adaptation *The Handmaid's Tale*, *Alias Grace* is a powerful critique of the plight of women in a patriarchal society, but it's also a miniseries that will keep you constantly guessing about the protagonist's guilt or innocence. —*Janey Tracey*

Where to watch *Alias Grace*: Netflix

**EW grade:** A–

**Cast:** Sarah Gadon, Edward Holcroft, Rebecca Liddiard, Anna Paquin, Zachary Levi, David Cronenberg

The Andy Warhol Diaries (2022)

Andy Warhol in 'The Andy Warhol Diaries'

Andy Warhol in 'The Andy Warhol Diaries'.

This absorbing Emmy-nominated documentary series follows the rise of the influential pop artist Andy Warhol. Utilizing innovative technology to simulate Warhol's voice, the series brings the artist's meticulously written diaries to life, guiding us through his career as a painter, the various loves of his life, and his emergence as a pop culture icon in the '60s. Aided by revealing interviews from various public figures whose lives were touched by Warhol, *The Andy Warhol Diaries* is a fittingly stylish tribute to a legend. —*K.J.*

Where to watch *The Andy Warhol Diaries*: Netflix

Baby Reindeer (2024)

Richard Gadd as Donny Dunn in 'Baby Reindeer'

Richard Gadd as Donny Dunn in 'Baby Reindeer'.

Based on Richard Gadd's one-man show about his experience with stalking, *Baby Reindeer* starts with humor, then takes a sharp turn that makes you reevaluate everything that came before. The Emmy-winning miniseries has been controversial, especially after a lawsuit was filed by the woman who claims to be the inspiration for the series. But, wherever you stand on the ethics of fictionalizing real people, *Baby Reindeer* still stands on its own as intimate, gut-wrenching television that's deeply personal. —*J.T.*

Where to watch *Baby Reindeer*: Netflix

**Cast:** Richard Gadd, Jessica Gunning, Nava Mau, Tom Goodman-Hill

Beef (2023–present)

Ali Wong as Amy Lau and Steven Yeun as Danny Cho on 'Beef'

Ali Wong as Amy Lau and Steven Yeun as Danny Cho on 'Beef'.

Andrew Cooper/Netflix

The less you know going into *Beef*, the better. Steven Yeun and Ali Wong, both excellent as always, star as Danny Cho and Amy Lau, two people whose fates become intertwined after a road rage incident. As their behavior escalates, the miniseries becomes increasingly deep and strange.

EW's critic writes, "What begins as a manic vengeance adventure veers sharply into an intense, philosophical, and at times meandering exploration of generational trauma, the Asian immigrant experience, and the fathomless mystery of our inner selves." A second season is in the works with an all-new cast (à la *White Lotus*), including Oscar Isaac, Carey Mulligan, Charles Melton, and Cailee Spaeny. —*J.T.*

Where to watch *Beef*: Netflix

**EW grade:** B

**Cast:** Steven Yeun, Ali Wong, Joseph Lee, Young Mazino, David Choe, Patti Yasutake

Bodyguard (2018)

Richard Madden as David Budd and Keeley Hawes as Julia Montague in 'Bodyguard'. World Productions/Netflix

Many shows might build to their first nail-biting sequence, but not *Bodyguard*. The first episode starts with a 20-minute scene in which David Budd (Richard Madden), a British Army war veteran suffering from PTSD, tries to talk down a suicide bomber while on a train with his two children. EW staffers praised Madden's Golden Globe-winning performance, the portrayal of women in positions of power, and the "what-the-heck-is-even-happening moments" that make the miniseries impossible not to binge. And the viewers seemed to agree: When it aired in the U.K., *Bodyguard* became the country's most successful launch of a drama series in the 2010s. —*J.T.*

Where to watch *Bodyguard*: Netflix

**Cast:** Richard Madden, Keeley Hawes, Gina McKee, Sophie Rundle, Vincent Franklin, Pippa Haywood

Death by Lightning (2025)

Michael Shannon as James A. Garfield in 'Death by Lightning'

Michael Shannon as James A. Garfield in 'Death by Lightning'.

Larry Horricks/Netflix/Courtesy Everett Collection

James A. Garfield may not have the name recognition of other centuries-old presidents like George Washington, John Adams, or Abraham Lincoln, but this four-part miniseries has certainly elevated his profile. Michael Shannon stars as Garfield as he becomes the 20th President of the United States and advocates for civil rights. Meanwhile, troubled devotee Charles J. Guiteau (Matthew Macfadyen) turns increasingly disgruntled, leading to him shooting the president. It's a compelling two-hander that explores both the potential and dangers of humanity. —*K.J.*

Where to watch *Death by Lightning*: Netflix

**Cast:** Michael Shannon, Matthew Macfadyen, Betty Gilpin, Shea Whigham, Bradley Whitford, Nick Offerman**

Godless (2017)

Michelle Dockery as Alice Fletcher in 'Godless'

Michelle Dockery as Alice Fletcher in 'Godless'. Ursula Coyote/Netflix

*Godless* takes the Western genre and turns it on its head, focusing on a town almost entirely run by women after a mining accident kills most of the men. Jeff Daniels chews the scenery as murderous robber Frank Griffin, giving a villainous performance for the ages (even if some of his monologues run a little long). But the women are the standouts, especially *Downton Abbey*'s Michelle Dockery and Merritt Wever as the men's clothes-wearing, overtly feminist Mary Agnes. "I'm done with the notion that the bliss of me and my sisters is to be found in childbearing and caregiving," she declares. —*J.T.*

Where to watch *Godless*: Netflix

**EW grade:** B

**Cast:** Michelle Dockery, Jack O'Connell, Scoot McNairy, Merritt Wever, Thomas Brodie-Sangster, Sam Waterston, Jeff Daniels

Griselda (2024)

Sofía Vergara as Griselda Blanco in 'Griselda'

Sofía Vergara as Griselda Blanco in 'Griselda'.

Courtesy of Netflix

You've never seen Sofía Vergara quite like this. The *Modern Family* alum sheds her comedic persona — and puts on some prosthetics — to deliver a chilling, Emmy-nominated performance as Griselda Blanco, the infamous Colombian drug lord. According to director Andrés Baiz, who also worked on *Narcos*, Vergara was drawn to the role of a woman in a man's world and the opportunity to show her range. "This was a chance to reinvent herself and step out of her comfort zone," Baiz told EW. "She knew she had to dive in completely into this role and...push herself to the limit." —*J.T.*

Where to watch *Griselda*: Netflix

**Cast:** Sofía Vergara, Alberto Guerra, Martin Rodriguez, Juliana Aidén Martinez, Vanessa Ferlito, Christian Tappan

The Haunting of Hill House (2018)

(From left to right): Mckenna Grace as Theo, Lulu Wilson as Shirley, Paxton Singleton as Steven, Violet McGraw as Nell, Julian Hilliard as Luke, and Henry Thomas as Hugh — the Crains — in 'The Haunting of Hill House'

Less of an adaptation than a reimagining, *The Haunting of Hill House* has almost nothing in common with the original Shirley Jackson novel except the characters' names. But director Mike Flanagan captures the spirit of the work; in true elevated horror fashion, the miniseries uses ghosts as metaphors for trauma and unresolved grief, reaching a terrible and beautiful climax with the now-classic episode "The Bent-Neck Lady."

"A ghost can be a lot of things: memories, guilt, regrets, trauma, loss," Flanagan told EW. "We all have our ghosts to contend with, and that contention is where we learn the most about ourselves, as individuals and as a society." —*J.T.*

Where to watch *The Haunting of Hill House*: Netflix

**Cast:** Victoria Pedretti, Carla Gugino, Michiel Huisman, Elizabeth Reaser, Oliver Jackson-Cohen, Kate Siegel, Mckenna Grace, Timothy Hutton

The Last Dance (2020)

Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen during Game 5 of the NBA Finals on June 11, 1997

Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen during Game 5 of the NBA Finals on June 11, 1997.

Nuccio DiNuzzo/Chicago Tribune/Tribune News Service via Getty Images

You don't need to follow basketball to appreciate *The Last Dance*. Chronicling Michael Jordan's final season with the Chicago Bulls, this 10-part docuseries became a quarantine favorite at a time when no one could watch live sports, painting a compelling portrait of ambition, leadership, and the price of success. "Sports fans or non-sports fans, the Chicago Bulls were a global phenomenon," director Jason Hehir told EW. "This was a cast of characters that Hollywood couldn't come up with, and Michael Jordan was the star of all stars." —*J.T.*

Where to watch *The Last Dance*: Netflix

**Cast:** Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman

The 25 best miniseries ready to binge-watch this weekend

Michaela Coel as Arabella in 'I May Destroy You'; Hiroyuki Sanada as Yoshii Toranaga on 'Shōgun'; Cast of 'Band of Brothers'

The 25 best drama series on Netflix to get hooked on

Regé-Jean Page as Simon Basset on 'Bridgerton'; Steven Yeun as Danny Cho in 'Beef'; Anya Taylor-Joy as Beth Harmon in 'The Queen's Gambit'

Maid (2021)

Margaret Qualley as Alex Russell in 'Maid'

Margaret Qualley as Alex Russell in 'Maid'.

Ricardo Hubbs/Netflix

Based on Stephanie Land's memoir, *Maid* follows Alex (Margaret Qualley), a young mother who escapes an abusive relationship and struggles to support herself and her daughter. The miniseries is a raw and empathetic portrayal of the challenges faced by those living on the margins of society and a scathing indictment of the institutions that make it nearly impossible to escape abuse and poverty. Qualley's real-life mother Andie MacDowell has an unsettling supporting role as Alex's mentally ill mother, but Qualley is the star, and her nuanced, Emmy-nominated performance makes *Maid *both heartbreaking and inspiring. —*J.T.*

Where to watch *Maid*: Netflix

**Cast:** Margaret Qualley, Nick Robinson, Anika Noni Rose, Andie MacDowell

Midnight Mass (2021)

Hamish Linklater as Father Paul Hill in 'Midnight Mass'

Hamish Linklater as Father Paul Hill in 'Midnight Mass'.

Courtesy of Netflix

*The Haunting of Hill House* is Mike Flanagan's claim to fame, but some might call *Midnight Mass* his magnum opus. The miniseries follows Riley Flynn (Zach Gilford), a man who returns to his religious hometown after serving prison time for manslaughter. When a mysterious priest (Hamish Linklater) arrives, strange and unexplainable events begin to occur. Full of slow-burn horror, it's Flanagan's most personal work, based on his experiences with recovery and his upbringing in a Catholic community. "I don't know how long I could have gone without writing it," he wrote in a letter to critics. "This...was the story I always wanted to tell." —*J.T.*

Where to watch *Midnight Mass*: Netflix

**EW grade:** A–

**Cast**: Zach Gilford, Kate Siegel, Hamish Linklater, Kristin Lehman, Samantha Sloyan, Rahul Kohli

One Day (2024)

Ambika Mod as Emma Morley and Leo Woodall as Dexter Mayhew in 'One Day'

Ambika Mod as Emma Morley and Leo Woodall as Dexter Mayhew in 'One Day'.

Forget the 2011 film version starring Jim Sturgess and Anne Hathaway — *One Day* on Netflix is now the definitive adaptation of the beloved novel by David Nicholls. The series follows college classmates Emma (Ambika Mod) and Dexter (Leo Woodall), whose relationship unfolds on the same day over the course of 20 years. A lovely rom-com elevated by Mod and Woodall's chemistry and nuanced, charming performances, *One Day* will have you in tears by the end of your binge. —*J.T.*

Where to watch *One Day*: Netflix

**Cast:** Ambika Mod, Leo Woodall

Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story (2023)

Corey Mylchreest as King George III and India Amarteifio as Queen Charlotte in 'Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story'

Corey Mylchreest as King George III and India Amarteifio as Queen Charlotte in 'Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story'. Liam Daniel/Netflix

A prequel series to ratings juggernaut *Bridgerton*, *Queen Charlotte* offers a lush, romantic look at the origins of one of the most beloved characters. The miniseries, by super creator Shonda Rhimes, delves into the young Queen Charlotte's (India Amarteifio) rise to power and her relationship with King George III (Corey Mylchreest). The story has a modern resonance as Queen Charlotte is written as a woman of color, which is the belief of many historians. "I wanted to tell the story of this young woman of color arriving in this world where she never imagined she'd be," Rhimes told EW. —*J.T.*

Where to watch* Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story*: Netflix

**EW grade:** B+

**Cast:** India Amarteifio, Adjoa Andoh, Michelle Fairley, Corey Mylchreest, Golda Rosheuvel

The Queen's Gambit (2020)

Anya Taylor-Joy as Beth Harmon in 'The Queen's Gambit'

Anya Taylor-Joy as Beth Harmon in 'The Queen's Gambit'.

Phil Bray/Netflix

The miniseries that made everyone learn chess during quarantine, *The Queen's Gambit* was the surprise hit of 2020, captivating audiences with its riveting tale of chess prodigy Beth Harmon (Anya Taylor-Joy). Set during the Cold War, the Emmy-winning series traces Beth's journey from a Kentucky orphanage to the international chess scene, all while dealing with addiction and inner demons. The quick pacing and inventive visuals make chess matches as thrilling as a sports movie climax, but Taylor-Joy's mesmerizing performance is the real draw. As EW's critic writes, "*Queen's Gambit* will be remembered as the final star-making moment for Taylor-Joy, before her movie career rockets fast and Furiosa-ly." —*J.T.*

Where to watch* The Queen's Gambit*: Netflix

**EW grade:** B

**Cast: **Anya Taylor-Joy, Bill Camp, Moses Ingram, Marielle Heller, Thomas Brodie-Sangster

Ripley (2024)

Andrew Scott as Tom Ripley in 'Ripley'

Andrew Scott as Tom Ripley in 'Ripley'.

*Ripley* brings Patricia Highsmith's infamous con artist to the small screen in a stylish retelling that goes full noir, filmed entirely in black and white. These changes allow for a darker, lonelier version of Tom Ripley (played by a career-best Andrew Scott), whose complex psychology and lack of glamour is for a modern audience. "I didn't purposely try to get sympathy or empathy for him," creator Steven Zaillian told EW. "I trusted that, just by telling the story, that same thing would happen as it did in the book." —*J.T.*

Where to watch* Ripley*: Netflix

**Cast: **Andrew Scott, Dakota Fanning, Johnny Flynn, Eliot Sumner, Margherita Buy, Maurizio Lombardi

Toxic Town (2025)

Aimee Lou Wood as Tracy, Jodie Whittaker as Susan, and Karla Crome as Pattie in 'Toxic Town'

Aimee Lou Wood as Tracy, Jodie Whittaker as Susan, and Karla Crome as Pattie in 'Toxic Town'.

Ben Blackall/Netflix

This four-part British series is based on the real-life story of mothers who fought their town's council on behalf of their children. At the center is the toxic waste scandal in Corby, Northamptonshire, England, where the mishandling of industrial waste led to birth defects for several of the town's newborns. Jodie Whittaker and *White Lotus* alum Aimee Lou Wood are superb as two of the mothers whose babies were affected, and the series is at once infuriating and inspiring as it portrays the long and winding road of seeking justice. —*K.J.*

Where to watch *Toxic Town*: Netflix

**Cast:** Jodie Whittaker, Aimee Lou Wood, Rory Kinnear, Brendan Coyle, Robert Carlyle, Joe Dempsie, Claudia Jessie

Unbelievable (2019)

Kaitlyn Dever as Marie Adler in 'Unbelievable'

Kaitlyn Dever as Marie Adler in 'Unbelievable'. Beth Dubber/Netflix

Based on the devastating, Pulitzer Prize-winning article "An Unbelievable Story of Rape" from ProPublica and the Marshall Project, *Unbelievable* is a hard-hitting, unusually compassionate police procedural about two detectives (Toni Collette and Merritt Wever) as they investigate a series of sexual assaults. Kaitlyn Dever gives a heartbreaking performance as Marie, a rape survivor dismissed by authorities, which the actress called "the hardest thing I've ever done in my career." But instead of dwelling on the gendered injustices, the miniseries highlights the importance of having women in positions of power, as the empathetic approach taken by the female investigators is key to righting the wrongs of the case. —*J.T.*

Where to watch* Unbelievable*: Netflix

**EW grade:** B+

**Cast: **Toni Collette, Merritt Wever, Kaitlyn Dever

Unorthodox (2020)

Amit Rahav as Yanky Shapiro and Shira Haas as Esty Shapiro in 'Unorthodox'

Amit Rahav as Yanky Shapiro and Shira Haas as Esty Shapiro in 'Unorthodox'. Anika Molnar/Netflix

Based on Deborah Feldman's memoir, *Unorthodox* tells the story of Esther "Esty" Shapiro, a young woman who flees her ultra-Orthodox Jewish community in Brooklyn for a new life in Berlin. The miniseries is a gripping tale of self-discovery and rebellion, with Shira Haas delivering an extraordinary turn as Esty. She earned an Emmy nomination for her performance, not least because of that powerful singing scene. "The show is about a woman finding her voice, and in that scene, she's literally finding it," Haas told EW. "She's even surprising herself of what's coming out of her." —*J.T.*

Where to watch* Unorthodox*: Netflix

**Cast:** Shira Haas, Amit Rahav, Jeff Wilbusch

When They See Us (2019)

Niecy Nash-Betts as Delores Wise in 'When They See Us'

Niecy Nash-Betts as Delores Wise in 'When They See Us'. Atsushi Nishijima/Netflix

Ava DuVernay's *When They See Us* is a searing, unflinching account of the wrongful convictions of the Central Park Five, five Black and Latino teenagers who were falsely accused of a brutal assault in 1989. The miniseries powerfully depicts the systemic racism and injustice faced by these young men, following their harrowing journey from arrest to exoneration. With DuVernay's auteur touch and stellar performances from an ensemble cast, especially Jharrel Jerome, who won an Emmy for his portrayal of Korey Wise, *When They See Us* is as emotionally devastating as it is necessary viewing. —*J.T.*

Where to watch *When They See Us*: Netflix

**Cast:** Asante Blackk, Jharrel Jerome, Niecy Nash-Betts, Felicity Huffman

Wild Wild Country (2018)

Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh in 'Wild Wild Country'

Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh in 'Wild Wild Country'. Netflix

Cult documentaries have been a part of our media diet, but *Wild Wild Country* is one you have to see to believe. Chronicling the rise and fall of the Rajneeshpuram commune in Oregon during the 1980s, the docuseries delves into the controversial practices of Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh and his followers, leading to one of the most bizarre, shocking, and underreported events in American history. It's a wild ride filled with twists, legal battles, and a fascinating cast of real-life characters. —*J.T.*

Where to watch* Wild Wild Country*: Netflix

- TV Reviews & Recommendations

Original Article on Source

Source: "EW TV"

Source: TV

Published: February 28, 2026 at 10:19PM on Source: RED MAG

#ShowBiz#Sports#Celebrities#Lifestyle

byRed Roads Media

in

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The 22 best bingeable miniseries streaming on Netflix

EW's picks range from sweeping romances like &34;Queen Charlotte&34; to tense crime dramas like &34;Adolescenc...

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Survivor 50, Connor Storrie hosting SNL, and Scream 7 top this week's Must List

Survivor 50

Connor Storrie hosts SNL

Mitski's Nothing's About to Happen to Me

The Unknown

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Why aren't Melissa Barrera and Jenna Ortega in Scream 7?

Why did Melissa Barrera leave Scream 7?

Why did Jenna Ortega leave Scream 7?

Why did Scream 7's previous directors depart?

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3:00 PM

Yes, Amazon has tons of new Lego sets — we're talking a Project Hail Mary spaceship, Sauron's helmet, and more

Best new Lego pop culture-themed sets

Lego Icons Project Hail Mary Spacecraft

Lego Star Wars Smart Play Darth Vader's TIE Fighter

What to know about Lego's Smart Play System

Lego Disney Winnie the Pooh

Lego Icons The Lord of the Rings Sauron's Helmet

Lego Star Wars Smart Play Millennium Falcon

Lego Star Wars Smart Play Luke's Landspeeder

Lego Disney Winnie the Pooh Piglet's Birthday Fun

Lego DC Batman Logo

Lego DC Batman v Superman Batmobile

See More From Commerce

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Zack Snyder defends Batman v. Superman and his die-hard fans: 'We were kicking the zeitgeist in the nuts'

byRed Roads Media

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3:00 PM

The 22 best bingeable miniseries streaming on Netflix

Adolescence (2025)

Alias Grace (2017)

The Andy Warhol Diaries (2022)

Baby Reindeer (2024)

Beef (2023–present)

Bodyguard (2018)

Death by Lightning (2025)

Godless (2017)

Griselda (2024)

The Haunting of Hill House (2018)

The Last Dance (2020)

Maid (2021)

Midnight Mass (2021)

One Day (2024)

Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story (2023)

The Queen's Gambit (2020)

Ripley (2024)

Toxic Town (2025)

Unbelievable (2019)

Unorthodox (2020)

When They See Us (2019)

Wild Wild Country (2018)

byRed Roads Media

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1:01 PM

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