All the Celebrities Who Welcomed Babies in 2025
We're sure there will be rainbow babies who are born, we have no doubt unique baby names will be given, and we'd even venture to guess there will be a home birth or two (planned or otherwise).
No matter how or when these little bébés arrive, we can't wait to 'meet' them. (Even if that 'meeting' is just seeing a black-and-white photo of their little tootsies or teeny hand.) It never fails to put a smile on our faces, and so we're once again keeping tabs on all the celebrities who welcome babies in 2025.
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Steve Aoki & Sasha Sofine
Steve Aoki and Sasha Sofine are parents! The pair welcomed their son on July 2025, and shared the news to Instagram. Steve said, 'Rocky77 has arrived! We're so in love with him already ❤️ Even more special is that we get to celebrate our son's birth on the same day as our wedding anniversary. Surprise arrival he came out on his own time already writing his first chapter of life. Let the adventures begin! ❤️❤️'
This is their first child together!
Trisha Paytas & Moses Hacmon
Influencer Trisha Paytas has welcomed her third child! She shared the news on TikTok, revealing her son's unusual name. '💙AQUAMAN MOSES PAYTAS-HACMON HAS ARRIVED 💙,' Paytas wrote, adding that he was born on July 12.
'Thank you for all the well wishes and fun videos guessing his name 🥹🙏,' she added. 'It was so cute and made us feel so loved. Such a positive space bringing him into the world 🧸🌊'
In an episode of her Just Trish podcast on July 22, Paytas shared a little about her birth story. 'This was the most chaotic, traumatizing birth of my life,' she said, per E! News, explaining that her water broke before her scheduled c-section. She added, 'I actually thought I was going to die—I was like, 'I don't know if I can handle this.'
Paytas shares Aquaman and daughters Elvis, 1, and Malibu Barbie, 2, with husband Moses Hacmon.
Wilmer Valderrama & Amanda Pacheco
Wilmer Valderrama and Amanda Pacheco are now parents of two! They welcomed a son on July 2025, sharing the news to his Instagram with the caption reading, 'Wolf Monte Valderrama 7/11/2025 🐺🌕.'
Valderrama and Pacheco are also parents to a 4-year-old daughter, Nakano Oceana, and have been together since 2019.
Justin Long & Kate Bosworth
Justin Long and Kate Bosworth, who have been married since 2023, secretly welcomed a daughter via a surrogate, per Page Six. Not much else is known but we're so excited for the new parents!
Olivia Culpo & Christian McCaffrey
Olivia Culpo and Christian McCaffrey are parents! On July 13, the pair shared glimpses of their baby girl, revealing her name in the Instagram caption: 'Colette Annalise McCaffrey 🤍.'
The pair have been dating since 2019, but married in 2024. This is their first child together.
J.J. Watt & Kealia Watt
J.J. Watt and wife Kealia are officially a family of four! The former NFL player and his former professional soccer player wife welcomed a baby boy named Niko, which they announced in a June 24 Instagram post.
'Overcome with joy and gratitude,' Watt wrote. 'Niko Benjamin Watt 6.14.25 ❤️💙.' He shared photos from the hospital, with their firstborn son Koa, 2, looking overjoyed to be a big brother.
Kate Upton & Justin Verlander
Kate Upton and Justin Verlander are now parents of two. Upton's rep confirmed the news to TMZ, saying that the pair welcomed their second baby, a son named Bellamy Brooks Verlander on June 19.
The pair have been married since 2017 and share another child, a daugther named Genevieve, born in 2018.
Kristen Doute & Luke Broderick
Kristen Doute and Luke Broderick welcomed their rainbow baby! Doute shared the news to UsMagazine, saying, 'She's here, and we still can't believe it. Luke is even hotter as a dad, and I just feel so lucky. And even though I haven't slept or showered in two days, seeing our daughter and finally being able to hold her makes it all worth it. We're completely overwhelmed with love and so grateful for her— our lives are already changed completely.'
They welcomed a daughter named Kaia Lily
Dak Prescott & Sarah Jane Ramos
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott and his fiancée Sarah Jane Ramos welcomed their second baby on May 31. The couple announced the news that their daughter, named Aurora Rayne, was born on May 22.
'Thank You God,' Prescott captioned an Instagram post announcing the news. 'Welcome, Aurora Rayne! May 22, 2025. God is Great. I love you @sarahjane and the Family we've created ♥️.'
The couple are also parents to daughter Margaret Jane 'MJ' Rose, born in Feb. 2024.
Cassie & Alex Fine
Cassie (born Cassandra Ventura) gave birth to her third baby with husband Alex Fine. A source confirmed the baby news to ABC News on May 28, 2025. No other details about the baby have been released yet.
The couple are also parents to daughters Frankie Stone Fine, born in Dec. 2019, and Sunny Cinco Fine, born in March 2021.
Jesy Nelson
Little Mix alum Jesy Nelson and her longterm boyfriend Zion Foster revealed on May 2025 that she welcomed twin daughters! She shared the update to her Instagram with the caption reading, 'So… Our beautiful baby girls decided to come at 31weeks plus 5 days. It all happened so quickly, but we are so blessed that they are here with us, healthy and fighting strong! We've never felt more in love 🥹.'
She added, 'Everybody meet Ocean Jade Nelson-Foster and Story Monroe Nelson-Foster Born on 15.05.2025 🌊📖.'
Tiffany Trump
Tiffany Trump and husband Michael Boulaos welcomed their first child in May 2025. 'Welcome to the world our sweet baby boy, Alexander Trump Boulos,' she wrote on Instagram. 'We love you beyond words! Thank you for coming into our lives!'
Baby Alexander is Donald Trump's 11th grandchild.
Amber Heard
Amber Heard is now a mom of three! On Mother's Day 2025, Heard announced that she welcomed twins. She wrote on Instagram, 'Mother's Day 2025 will be one I'll never forget. This year I am elated beyond words to celebrate the completion of the family I've strived to build for years. Today I officially share the news that I welcomed twins into the Heard gang. My daughter Agnes and my son Ocean are keeping my hands (and my heart) full.'
She added, 'Becoming a mother by myself and on my own terms despite my own fertility challenges has been the most humbling experience of my life. I am eternally grateful that I was able to choose this responsibly and thoughtfully. To all the moms, wherever you are today and however you got here, my dream family and I are celebrating with you. Love always, A x.'
Rupert Grint & Georgia Groome
Longtime lovers Rupert Grint and Georgia Groome welcomed another daughter, and surprised everyone with the news! On April 27, 2025, Grint shared a new photo to Instagram, confirming the news with the caption reading, 'Secret Child Slightly Revealed' Introducing Goldie G. Grint. ⭐️ A 10/10 baby (so far). Shout out to @alex.digesu for always delivering 🫡.'
The pair have been together since 2011, and previously welcomed a daughter named Wednesday in Nov 2020
Gabriella Watt & Derek Watt
Derek Watt and his wife Gabriella welcomed a baby girl in April 2025. 'Last week we welcomed our sweet little girl, Isabella Grace, into the world!' the retired NFL player wrote on Instagram. 'Our hearts are so full and the boys are obsessed with their baby sister! 🩷🌸'
The couple also shares sons Logan and Brayden who looked so excited to meet their baby sister at the hospital.
Shohei Ohtani & Mamiko Tanaka
Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani and his wife, former pro basketball star, Mamiko Tanaka just welcomed their first child together: a daughter! He shared the news on his Instagram with a note, reading, 'To my daughter. Thank you for making us very nervous yet super anxious parents,' he said. 'I would also like to thank the Dodgers organization, my teammates, and the fans for their constant support and kind words of encouragement. I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to all the medical professionals and everyone who dedicated their support to us, up until this wonderful day.'
Zachary Levi & Maggie Keating
Zachary Levi and Maggie Keating announced their baby boy had entered the world! They shared the update with an adorable snapshot of their newborn son on Instagram, saying, 'Henson Ezra Levi Pugh 🤍 Born into our world on 04/02/25. Thank you for everyone's continued love and prayers over the three of us. We can't wait for you to meet our little man!' This is their first child together.
Ms Rachel & Aron Accurso
Beloved YouTube personality Rachel Griffin-Accurso (AKA Ms Rachel) quietly welcomed her second child — baby Susannah —with husband Aron Accurso.
'Sometimes timing isn't what you plan and the road to get there is bumpier than you expect, but when you hold your little ones you know… I'm meant to be your mama,' Ms Rachel wrote in her birth announcement before sharing that she couldn't carry this pregnancy 'for medical reasons.'
'We were blessed to have a surrogate who gave us the most precious gift possible,' she continued. 'We are now all family forever. We have immense gratitude and a deep bond. It's been a truly beautiful experience. I'm in awe of her.'
The mom of two then thanked her husband Aron for being the 'best husband and dada' to Susannah and their son Thomas.
Amber Pike & Matt Barnett
Love Is Blind alums Amber and Matt Barnett welcomed their first baby in April 2025.
'Baby Barnett has arrived and is more perfect than anything I could've dreamed, Amber wrote on Instagram. '… I literally still can't believe the hospital let us take her home and that she is actually ours.'
'It may be the hormones but [Matt] and our baby girl have my heart so full I can hardly function, I hope this feeling never goes away 🩷,' she continued.
Barnett shared his own birth announcement with a photo of him holding his daughter's tiny feet. 'Promoted from daddy to dad #girldad,' he captioned the post.
Eminem's Daughter Hailie Jade
Eminem became a grandpa (!!!) in March 2025 when his daughter Hailie Jade and her husband Evan McClintock welcomed the Real Slim Baby. (IYKYK.)
'Happy due date//3 weeks earthside little e 🤍,' Hailie captioned two photos of her son with a sign stating his name and birthday. Little Elliot Mathers McClintock was born on March 14. His name is so special given that Eminem's real name is Marshall Mathers and the initials 'EMM' are so perfect for the rapper's grandson.
Thomas Kail & Michelle Williams
A source told People in April that Thomas Kail and Michelle Williams welcomed a third child via surrogate earlier in the year. The director and the actress also share kids born in 2020 and 2022. In 2005, Williams welcomed daughter Matilda with actor Heath Ledger who tragically passed away three years later.
Jason Kelce & Kylie Kelce
The Kelce family has officially grown! On March 30, retired NFL player Jason Kelce and his wife Kylie Kelce welcomed their third daughter, Finnley 'Finn' Anne Kelce. 'Whoop, there she is!' Kylie wrote on Instagram.
Two days later, the podcast host sat down to record an episode of Not Gonna Lie With Kylie Kelce with her newborn in hand.
The Kelces also share daughters Wyatt, Elliotte, and Bennett. Last year, Kylie announced her pregnancy with a photo of the girls wearing matching pink sweaters that said, 'Big Sister.' Wyatt was covering her ears and looking nervous, Elliotte was smiling, and Bennett was sobbing.
'I feel like we captured a very accurate representation of how each of the girls feel about getting another sister,' she wrote. 'At least Ellie, mom and dad are on the same page! 🤷♀️'
Jennifer Lawrence
Insiders told People that Jennifer Lawrence and her husband Cooke Maroney welcomed their second child around March 2025. The couple are also mom and dad to 3-year-old son Cy.
Alex Morgan
Soccer legend Alex Morgan and husband Servando Carrasco — who share a 4-year-old daughter Charlie (pictured) — welcomed Baby No. 2 in March. 'Soaking it all up right now. Welcome to the world baby Enzo🩵,' Morgan captioned a carousel of black-and-white photos of Enzo's little feet and tiny hand.
Last year, ahead of her retirement, Morgan told SheKnows' Editor-in-Chief Erika Janes that she brings Charlie to games so she is constantly surrounded by 'really strong and resilient women.'
'[I want her to just be] able to walk in any room anywhere and feel like she can stand tall and be confident.'
She might not be a professional soccer player anymore, but we're sure Morgan will still look to surround Charlie and Enzo with 'really strong and resilient women.'
Erin Lichy & Abe Lichy
Real Housewives of New York City star Erin Lichy and Abe Lichy welcomed their fourth child, a son named Jack. They shared the news on Instagram with a photo of the mother-son duo with the caption reading, 'Jack Hunter Lichy 💙 #CrazyInLove.'
Elisabeth Moss
Despite confirming she was pregnant with her first baby back in Jan 2024, Elisabeth Moss didn't confirm she had welcomed her first child until March 2025! She confirmed the news that she is a proud mom of one during 2025 PaleyFestLA via People, but hasn't divulged any other details.
Megan Fox and Machine Gun Kelly
Megan Fox and ex Machine Gun Kelly (MGK) welcomed their first baby together in March 2025. The actress also shares three kids with ex Brian Austin Green, and the rapper has one daughter with ex-girlfriend Emma Cannon.
'She's finally here!! our little celestial seed 🥹💓♈️♓️♊️,' Kelly captioned a video on Instagram where he's holding his newborn's hand.
Amy Jackson & Ed Westwick
Actors Amy Jackson and Ed Westwick announced the birth of their first child in March 2025, and they gave him a distinctly old money baby name.
'Welcome to the world, baby boy. Oscar Alexander Westwick 🤍,' the Gossip Girl alum captioned a joint Instagram post with his wife. The announcement included three heartfelt black-and-white photos of the new parents and little Oscar.
Sia
Sia shocked fans in March 2025 when news broke that she secretly welcomed a child with her estranged husband Dan Bernad, per People.
Baby Somersault Wonder Bernard joins Sia's two sons who she adopted after being moved by a 2016 documentary about the foster care system. A couple of years later, she found a teenage boy featured in the documentary and decided to adopt him. He asked if his 'cousin Che' from his group home could join. 'I had two spare bedrooms, so I said, 'Sure!'' the singer reportedly said.
TJ Watt & Dani Watt
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end TJ Watt and his wife Dani welcomed their first child in early 2025. It's possible that baby Blakely Marie Watt was born after her due date since Dani captioned the March announcement, 'Worth The Wait.' When Dani announced her pregnancy back in September, she said Baby Watt would be here in February.
'Welcome to the world Blakely!!!!!' T.J.'s brother J.J. Watt commented. The little girl will have two baby cousins this year since both J.J. Watt and brother Derek Watt are expecting.
Elon Musk & Shivon Zillis
Elon Musk and Shivon Zillis have welcomed a fourth child together.
'Discussed with Elon and, in light of beautiful Arcadia's birthday, we felt it was better to also just share directly about our wonderful and incredible son Seldon Lycurgus,' Zillis said on X, the app formerly known as Twitter. 'Built like a juggernaut, with a solid heart of gold. Love him so much ❤️ .'
Their relationship is unclear, but we do know they have four children together named Strider, Axure, Arcadia, and now, Seldon Lycurgus. (Musk also allegedly welcomed another child recently with Ashley St Clair.)
Mark Ronson & Grace Gummer
Mark Ronson and Grace Gummer reportedly welcomed their second child, a daughter whose name hasn't been released publicly yet, per Page Six. The pair started dating in 2020, then got married one year later in 2021. They also share another daughter together named Ruthie, 2.
Princess Sofia of Sweden
The Swedish royal family announced in February that Princess Sofia welcomed Baby No. 4.
'HRH Princess Sofia gave birth to a daughter at Danderyd Hospital in Stockholm,' the official announcement said. 'Prince Carl Philip was present at Danderyd Hospital throughout the birth.'
The royal family did not announce the baby girl's name, but the little princess now joins big brothers Prince Julian, Prince Gabriel, and Prince Alexander in the line of succession, per People.
Matt Leinart
Retired NFL player Matt Leinart and actress Josie Leinart welcomed Baby No. 3 in Feb. 2025.
'[She] was worth the wait,' the couple told People of baby Camila. 'Now our family is complete! Our boys have been a blessing, and we feel so lucky to welcome the missing puzzle piece to the Leinart family. We could not be happier.'
The couple also shares sons Cayson and Cannon, and Matt shares teen son Cole with ex Brynn Cameron.
Gisele Bündchen
Gisele Bündchen welcomed a baby with boyfriend Joaquim Valente, per TMZ. Sources told the outlet the mom of three is 'super happy' and that she and the baby are 'healthy.' It is believed the birth happened 'recently,' the publication said in early February.
The Brazilian model also shares kids Benjami and Vivian with ex-husband Tom Brady, who also shares son Jack with ex Bridget Moynahan.
Milo Ventimiglia
This Is Us star Milo Ventimiglia and his wife Jarah Mariano welcomed their first baby in Jan. 2025, just a couple of weeks after losing their house in the devastating Los Angeles wildfire.
'Houseless, never homeless,' Mariano wrote in an Instagram birth announcement. The couple gave their daughter a stunning Hawaiian name, Ke'ala, which means 'the path' and has connotations of moving forward.
'My family & I are together, happy, healthy & safe, which is truly all that matters,' Mariano continued. 'We are deeply grateful to all of the heroes who help battle fires, as well as care for everyone affected … This will be an extended process of rebuilding and grieving for many, but we are feeling optimistic & inspired to welcome all of the exciting newness of our fresh start!'
Lily Collins & Charlie McDowell
Lily Collins shocked everyone when she announced that her and husband Charlie McDowell welcomed a baby via surrogate on Jan. 31! The Emily in Paris star announced the birth of her daughter on Instagram, revealing a picture of the baby girl named Tove in an embroidered flower hat, tan onesie, and blanket embroidered with her name.
'Welcome to the center of our world Tove Jane McDowell,' Collins wrote on Instagram. 'Words will never express our endless gratitude for our incredible surrogate and everyone who helped us along the way. We love you to the moon and back again…'
Amanda Seyfried commented, 'This is perfect. So so happy for you four 😍,' referring to her Instagram-famous dog named Redford.
'OMG!!! Congratulations to you both!! This is the happiest, most incredible news. Sending you three (🥹) all my love and hugs and kisses!! 🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷' someone else said.
Congratulations on this wonderful new addition!
Princess Maria-Laura of Belgium & William Isvy
The Belgian Royal Palace announced in January that King Philippe's niece, Princess Maria-Laura, secretly welcomed her first child with husband William Isvy.
'[They] are delighted to announce the birth of their son Albert, born on Sunday 26 January in Brussels. Albert … is doing well, just like his mother,' the palace wrote in a translated post on X (formerly Twitter) alongside a sweet photo of the sleeping newborn. 'The families of the young parents share in their happiness.'
Ryan Murphy & Bridget Murphy
Olympic gold medalist Ryan Murphy and his wife Bridget welcomed a sweet baby girl at the end of January.
'Family of 3!' the proud parents captioned a joint post on Instagram. 'Eevi Lillian Murphy🪽… A name of Finnish origin meaning 'life.''
The Murphys made headlines during the Paris Olympics — and not just because of Ryan's skill. After he won Bronze in the 100-meter backstroke, he saw Bridget in the crowd with a sign that said, 'RYAN It's a GIRL!'
Princess Beatrice and Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi
Buckingham Palace announced that Princess Beatrice and her husband Edoardo 'Edo' Mapelli Mozzi welcomed their second child at the end of January. Baby Athena arrived several weeks early and — like her big sister Sienna — honors her Great Grandma Queen Elizabeth II with the middle name 'Elizabeth.'
The couple are also dad and stepmom to son Christopher Woolf 'Wolfie.'
'The King and Queen, and other members of The Royal Family have all been informed and are delighted with the news,' the royal family said in the announcement. ' … Her Royal Highness and her daughter are healthy and doing well, and the family are enjoying spending time together with Athena's older siblings, Wolfie and Sienna.'
The birth announcement seemed to go smoothly after Buckingham Palace made a spelling error when announcing Princess Beatrice's pregnancy back in October.
Justin Reid & Marissa Rand
Kansas City Chiefs star Justin Reid and his girlfriend Marissa Rand just weeks before the 2025 Super Bowl between the Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles.
'It was a busy weekend for me,' the safety said during a press conference, per People. 'I had my baby girl which was the highlight, even better than the divisional win [against the Houston Texans]!'
'I got to go to the birth center, I saw her being born and didn't feel anything except love and so much happiness holding her,' Reid added.
Skai Jackson
Skai Jackson and her boyfriend welcomed their first child together, sharing the big news on Jan 26. They announced the news on Instagram with the caption reading their child's first name: 'Kasai 🧸🤎.'
Brooke Hogan & Steven Oleksy
Hulk Hogan's daughter Brooke Hogan and her husband Steven Oleksy have welcomed two bundles of joy! She revealed they welcomed twins on Jan 18, saying on Instagram: 'So… just been staying off socials cooking these two cuties. 💙Oliver Andrew Oleksy + Molly Gene Oleksy 🩷Born Jan 15, 2025. Our hearts have been made whole by the arrival of these two sweet souls we get to love. God is good.'
Henry Cavill & Natalie Viscuso
People has confirmed that as of Jan 18, 2025, Henry Cavill and his girlfriend of nearly four years Natalie Viscuso have welcomed their first child together! No other details are known, but it's confirmed that they're parents.
Patrick Mahomes & Brittany Mahomes
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes and his wife Brittany Mahomes welcomed their third child on Jan. 12. Baby Golden Raye Mahomes joined big sister Sterling Mahomes, big brother Bronze Mahomes, and dogs Silver and Steel. If you haven't noticed, the Mahomes family is all about metallic monikers, and it's one of our favorite celebrity baby naming traditions.
After the couple announced the arrival of their second daughter, Kansas City's historic Union Station gave the three siblings a spectacular tribute.
'Tonight, we celebrate this special three-peat with our center arches illuminated in sterling silver, bronze and gold,' the train station's Instagram account captioned a photo of the building.
Travis Browne & Ronda Rousey
Wrestler Ronda Rousey welcomed a baby girl with her husband Travis Browne — who has two sons from a previous marriage — in January.
'Our little girl came into this world during a windstorm into a city on fire, so grateful she made it safe and sound,' Rousey captioned a video of their eldest, La'akea Makalapuaokalanipō, meeting her little sister, Liko'ula Pā'ūomahinakaipiha Browne.
Trevor Lawrence
NFL quarterback Trevor Lawrence and his wife Marissa welcomed a 10-pound baby girl, Shae Lynn Lawrence, in January.
'Mommy and daddy love you so much!!! Thank you Jesus for our girl!!' the couple captioned a joint Instagram post that includes photos where Lawrence is wearing a 'Girl Dad' hat.
Katrina Scott
Katrina Scott and her husband Brian welcomed their third baby girl, Carmen, in January. A representative for the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue model told People, 'Carmen; representing a garden of growth, strong roots and creativity — perfect for how she surprised us during such a pivotal time in our lives. She symbolizes the season where we firmly planted our roots in California and began a new chapter as a family, full of purpose and creativity.'
The couple also share daughters Isabelle and Colette.
Naomi Biden and Peter Neal
President Joe Biden welcomed his first great-grandchild at the beginning of 2025 when his granddaughter Naomi gave birth to a baby boy. First Lady Dr. Jill Biden shared a sweet birth announcement on Instagram with a photo of herself and her husband holding Naomi's son who she shares with husband Peter Neal.
'We are proud to introduce you to our great-grandson: William Brannon Neal, IV,' she wrote.
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After ‘Eddington:' 7 Offbeat Westerns to Watch Next
We've got some movies that'll scratch that itch Ari Aster's 'Eddington' is here. The movie, which pits a small-town sheriff (Joaquin Phoenix) against his mayor (Pedro Pascal), set during the early days of the global pandemic, is fierce and raw. Considering this is from Aster, the director of 'Midsommar,' 'Hereditary' and 'Beau is Afraid,' it is also confrontational and strange and deeply funny, with the action set at the precipice of the complete breakdown in communication that accompanied lockdown. (Indiewire called it 'the first truly modern American Western.') More from TheWrap After 'Eddington:' 7 Offbeat Westerns to Watch Next 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps' Post-Credits Scenes Explained: Who Was That? Jamie Lee Curtis Watched Her Parents' Success 'Slowly Erode' as They Aged: 'That's Very Painful' 'Coyote vs Acme' Takes Digs at Warner Bros., 2026 Release Date Announced And if you come out of 'Eddington' looking for more offbeat westerns to watch, we've got seven that should fill that void nicely. 'Bad Company' (1972) In the 1960s and 1970s, there was a slew of what were referred to as 'acid westerns' – westerns that were set in the distant past but that embraced the counterculture of the period, including, of course, recreational drug use. (Hence the 'acid' in 'acid western.') These parallels are made explicitly clear in 'Bad Company,' which is one of the very best movies from that era and one of the more underrated. The movie stars Jeff Bridges and Barry Brown (who tragically took his own life before the decade was up) as two young men who dodge the draft during the American Civil War. The movie has an episodic structure, with the pair getting into misadventures along the way, gorgeously shot by legendary cinematographer Gordon Willis, as their wayward drifting transitions to out-and-out lawlessness. If you've seen it and are a fan of it or want to check it out now for the first time, Fun City Editions put out a terrific Blu-ray edition recently that is very much worth checking out. 'Walker' (1987) After making 'Repo Man' and 'Sid & Nancy,' British director Alex Cox turned his sights on a one-of-a-kind western. The movie stars Ed Harris as William Walker, an American physician, lawyer and mercenary who organized military expeditions into Mexico and at one point made himself president of Nicaragua. Like 'Eddington,' 'Walker' leans into the events of recent (and current) history – it was actually filmed in Nicaragua during the Contra War, a conflict that would have major implications for American politics. (Just Google Iran-Contra.) What makes 'Walker' really bonkers is Cox's use of historical anachronisms – there will be a Zippo lighter or a Coke can in scenes, and, if you don't know this going in, it can make you feel like you're going insane. Incredibly, Universal Pictures released the movie, selling it as a more straightforward western (in the trailer you here but never see a helicopter) and it promptly tanked. Since then, it has caught a second wind, and Criterion put out a killer Blu-ray that is very much worth your time. 'Unforgiven' (1992) Aster has openly stated that he was influenced by 'Unforgiven' in making 'Eddington,' and it's both easy and somewhat difficult to see. There is a meandering quality to the story in both 'Unforgiven' and 'Eddington,' and we mean that in a positive. If it's been a while since you've seen the Best Picture-winning Clint Eastwood film, there's a whole section of the movie where the wronged prostitutes hire an assassin named English Bob (Richard Harris), who totally punks out and leaves them high and dry, before they even find Eastwood's 'Will' Munny. There are so many narrative left turns and surprises, which translate to 'Eddington' (we don't want to give anything away), even if 'Unforgiven' is a much more traditional Western in tone and look. But hey, if you were looking for an excuse to rewatch 'Unforgiven,' consider 'Eddington' the reason. 'Lone Star' (1996) John Sayles' masterpiece, set in modern times and starring Chris Cooper as a sheriff who investigates the murder of one of his predecessors (Kris Kristofferson) years earlier, investigates time and how the past impacts the present. (These are things very much in 'Eddington.') What was striking about 'Lone Star' at the time – and what's still striking now – is how much iconography and narrative convention from a classic western could be grafted to something that would be considered a 'contemporary' film. These are themes and characters and even shot compositions that would not be out of place in a classic western, but dealing with modern concerns and moral ambiguity. (We don't want to ruin anything if you've never seen 'Lone Star.') Just watch it; it has a handful of award-worthy performances and a script by Sayles that was nominated for the Oscar for original screenplay. It also has a must-own 4K from Criterion. 'The Proposition' (2005) 'The Proposition' is bleak, even bleaker than 'Eddington' and with fewer jokes. But they do share a connective tissue in their desire to showcase a particular moment in time and the people who inhabit that moment. In 'Eddington,' it's 2020, and the breakdown of law and order around the pandemic is evident. In 'The Proposition' it's the 1880's, when criminals populated the Australian bush (like famous outlaw Ned Kelly) and English were brutally exterminating Australian Aboriginals. Like we said – bleak. Chances are you've never seen this one, which marked the breakthrough film of Australian director John Hillcoat, working from a screenplay by Australian musician Nick Cave, so we'll spare the details. We'll just say that Guy Pearce and Ray Winstone enter into a truly screwed up agreement that has dire consequences. Just watch it. It's worth it. Even if you have to close your eyes occasionally. 'The Counselor' (2013) Both more straightforward and more bonkers, Ridley Scott's underrated masterpiece 'The Counselor' is the perfect chaser to 'Eddington.' Like 'Eddington,' it is set in modern times, with deeply conflicted characters occasionally bumping up against and colliding with one another. In the only original screenplay written by the great Cormac McCarthy, Michael Fassbender plays a lawyer who gets in deep with some underworld types and attempts to save himself and his new wife (Penelope Cruz) from damnation. It's heady, for sure, but also extremely pulpy, with some of the best dialogue this side of the Rio Grande. (Most of it is too filthy to directly quote here.) Javier Bardem, Cameron Diaz and Brad Pitt all offer up superb supporting performances. And if you really want to feel the full power of 'The Counselor,' which we would put in the top 5 Ridley movies, watch the extended version. It gives everything more time to luxuriate. We are desperate for a longer 'Eddington', too, for that matter. 'Hell or High Water' (2016) What a movie – aesthetically 'Hell or High Water' is probably closest to 'Eddington' in its attempt to replicate the feeling of the old west in contemporary context. The movie, which people forget was nominated for four Academy Awards (including Best Picture), follows Chris Pine and Ben Foster, who are robbing banks to save their family ranch. Jeff Bridges is the Texas Ranger on their tail. They both tackle current-day social issues (the pandemic vs. the country's abysmal economic condition) but do it in an incredibly entertaining way, with Scottish director David Mackenzie upping the tension and Nick Cave and Warren Ellis delivering a beautiful, elegiac score (they also scored 'The Proposition,' see above). While 'Hell or High Water' might be more outwardly entertaining, it is still very much of a piece with 'Eddington.' Again: with fewer jokes and conspiracies. The post After 'Eddington:' 7 Offbeat Westerns to Watch Next appeared first on TheWrap.
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Donald Trump Repeats False Claim Beyoncé Was Paid $11 Million To Endorse Kamala Harris; Calls To Prosecute Singer, Oprah & Al Sharpton
On Saturday, Donald Trump repeated false claims that Beyoncé was paid $11 million to endorse Kamala Harris on the campaign trail in October of last year. The Truth Social post comes as the president faces scrutiny from his own base over the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files. Taking to his social media platform yesterday, the GOP leader wrote, 'I'm looking at the large amount of money owed by the Democrats, after the Presidential Election, and the fact that they admit to paying, probably illegally, Eleven Million Dollars to singer Beyoncé for an ENDORSEMENT (she never sang, not one note, and left the stage to a booing and angry audience!), Three Million Dollars for 'expenses,' to Oprah, Six Hundred Thousand Dollars to very low rated TV 'anchor,' Al Sharpton (a total lightweight!), and others to be named for doing, absolutely NOTHING! These ridiculous fees were incorrectly stated in the books and records. YOU ARE NOT ALLOWED TO PAY FOR AN ENDORSEMENT. IT IS TOTALLY ILLEGAL TO DO SO. Can you imagine what would happen if politicians started paying for people to endorse them. All hell would break out! Kamala, and all of those that received Endorsement money, BROKE THE LAW. They should all be prosecuted! Thank you for your attention to this matter.' More from Deadline Beyoncé Reunites Destiny's Child For Final 'Cowboy Carter' Tour Stop In Vegas Stephen Colbert Praises 'South Park's Naked AI Trump PSA: "An Important Message Of Hope" Donald Trump Denies Being Briefed That His Name Appeared In Jeffrey Epstein Files, Despite Wall Street Journal Report That He Was Informed Trump is referring to the 35-time Grammy-winning artist's appearance at a rally in Houston, where the singer took to the stage to endorse the vice president and call for unity. 'It's time to sing a new song, a song that began 248 years ago. The old notes of downfall, discord, despair no longer resonate. Our generations of loved ones before us are whispering a prophecy, a quest, a calling, an anthem. Our moment right now — it's time for America to sing a new song. Our voices sing a chorus of unity. They sing a song of dignity and opportunity,' she said to the crowd. Federal campaign spending records show a $165,000 payment made from the Democratic presidential candidate's organization to Beyoncé's production company, per CNN, with 'campaign event production' listed as the reasoning for the expenditure. Last year, senior spokesperson for the Harris campaign Adrienne Elrod told Deadline that the campaign did not pay any celebrity endorsers but was required by campaign finance law to cover costs associated with holding such events, per Federal Election Commission rules. This accounts for the $1 million the Harris campaign spent on Oprah's Harpo Productions, as the famed TV personality endorsed her at a Michigan-held 'Unite for America' event in September 2024. The baseless allegation was fact-checked by websites and PolitiFact last year, though Trump repeated his sentiments about Beyoncé, Oprah and Al Sharpton back in February. Trump has also previously harped on the matter in a post made back in May, where he named other influential Harris endorsers like Bruce Springsteen and Bono, calling for a 'major investigation.' There's also no evidence to suggest such expenses were incorrectly categorized, and though Trump maintained payment for endorsement is illegal, there's actually no FEC law that prohibits such campaigns for paying for endorsements, though they must disclose such expenditures. Best of Deadline Celebs Supporting Zohran Mamdani In New York's Mayoral Race: From Ramy Youssef To Cynthia Nixon The Fox News To White House Pipeline: TV Personalities Who Joined The Trump Administration Celebrities Voting And Encouraging Voting In The 2024 Election
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Tom Lehrer, musical satirist, dies at 97
Tom Lehrer, an acerbic songwriter and Harvard-trained mathematician who rose to fame in the 1950s and '60s by pillorying the sensibilities of the day, has died at age 97. Lehrer died at his home in Cambridge, Mass., on Saturday. His death was confirmed by friends on Facebook. No cause of death was given. The bespectacled Lehrer began performing on college campuses and clubs across the country in the 1950s, playing the piano and singing darkly comedic numbers that he penned on topics such as racial conflict, the Catholic Church and militarism, earning him the sobriquet of "musical nerd god." In "National Brotherhood Week," which lampooned the brief interlude of imposed tolerance celebrated annually from the 1930s through the early 2000s he wrote: Oh, the white folks hate the black folksand the black folks hate the white folks,to hate all but the right folks is an old established rule …But during National Brotherhood Week (National Brotherhood Week),Lena Horne and Sheriff Clark are dancing cheek to fun to eulogizeThe people you despise,As long as you don't let 'em into your school. Lehrer's songs also took aim at then-taboo subjects such as sexuality, pornography and addiction. In 1953, his self-released album 'Songs of Tom Lehrer" became an underground hit. Produced for $40 and promoted by word of mouth, the cover image was of Lehrer in hell playing piano as the devil. It eventually sold an estimated 500,000 copies and sparked demand for concert performances around the world. During the mid-1960s, Lehrer contributed several songs to the satirical NBC news show 'That Was the Week That Was,' hosted by David Frost. The show inspired Lehrer's third album, 'That Was the Year That Was.' Released in 1965, it reached the 18th spot on American music charts. On the occasion of his 90th birthday in 2018, Los Angeles Times columnist Michael Hiltzik wrote that Lehrer's lyrics were written "with the facility of William S. Gilbert and tunes that evoked the felicity of Sir Arthur Sullivan. Lehrer's work bounced the absurdities and paranoias of that period back at us, in rhymed couplets and a bouncy piano beat." Thomas Andrew Lehrer was born in New York City on April 9, 1928, to a middle-class family. His father James Lehrer was a successful necktie manufacturer. As a child he took piano lessons but preferred Broadway show tunes — with a particular affection for the works of Gilbert and Sullivan — to the classics. After entering Harvard University at age 15, his penchant for sardonic humor surfaced in his parody song "Fight Fiercely Harvard," which challenged the football team's reputation for toughness and earned him a measure of renown on campus. For a time he followed a dual track, music and academia, though he never completed the PhD thesis he began while pursuing doctoral studies at Harvard and Columbia University. After a two-year break between 1955 and 1957 when he served in the Army, Lehrer once again performed concerts across the U.S., Canada and Europe. In a 1959 Time article, the magazine described Lehrer and fellow comedians Lenny Bruce and Mort Sahl as the symbols of a new 'sick' comedy. 'What the sickniks dispense is partly social criticism liberally laced with cyanide, partly a Charles Addams kind of jolly ghoulishness, and partly a personal and highly disturbing hostility toward all the world." Lehrer's work opened the door for generations of musical satirists including Randy Newman and 'Weird Al' Yankovic and exerted an influence on everything from the musical skits of "Saturday Night Live" to the mockumentary "This Is Spinal Tap." "He set the bar for me — and provided an example of how a nerdy kid with a weird sense of humor could find his way in the world,' Yankovic once said of Lehrer. 'Done right, social criticism set to a catchy tune always makes politics easier to digest,' Lizz Winstead, co-creator of "The Daily Show," told Buzzfeed in an article examining Lehrer's influence on modern satirical comedy. But Lehrer was first and foremost an academic, over the course of his career teaching math and musical theater at Harvard, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and UC Santa Cruz and working for a time at the Atomic Energy Commission. He viewed entertainment largely as a sideline, and by the late 1960s had grown weary of life in the public eye. After several pauses to focus on his academic pursuits, he stepped off the stage in 1967 following a concert in Copenhagen. In 1971, he wrote songs for the PBS children's series "The Electric Company." His last turn in the spotlight was a year later. After performing at a presidential campaign rally for the Democratic nominee, South Dakota Sen. George S. McGovern, he gave up performing for good. Lehrer explained his retreat from the stage by saying that 'political satire became obsolete when Henry Kissinger was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize." In an interview with the New York Times, he elaborated: 'The Vietnam War is what changed it. Everybody got earnest. My purpose was to make people laugh and not applaud. If the audience applauds, they're just showing they agree with me.' But audiences were not through with Lehrer. After nearly a decade in self-imposed exile, Lehrer became a hit once again in the early 1980s when Cameron Mackintosh, the British theatrical producer, created "Tomfoolery," a revue of Lehrer's songs that opened in London's West End before going to to play New York, Washington, Dublin and other cities. Despite the public acclaim, Lehrer maintained a fiercely private life. He never married nor did he have children. In 2020, Lehrer announced through his website that he was making all of the lyrics he wrote available to download for free without further permission, whether or not they were published or retained a copyright. Two years later he went further in relinquishing his rights, saying: 'In short, I no longer retain any rights to any of my songs. So help yourselves, and don't send me any money.' Get notified when the biggest stories in Hollywood, culture and entertainment go live. Sign up for L.A. Times entertainment alerts. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. 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