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Stranger Things: There's a Reason You Love Eddie Munson - And It Isn't That Guitar Solo
Pop Culture

Stranger Things: There's a Reason You Love Eddie Munson - And It Isn't That Guitar Solo

* WARNING: This post contains spoilers for Stranger Things Season 4.Joseph Quinn’s portrayal of Hawkins’ alleged cult leader, Eddie Munson, struck a literal chord with old and new Stranger Things fans alike when Netflix dropped the fourth season in early summer 2022. Eddie’s devotion to the Dungeons & Dragons, struggle with running away, and his heroic Metallica performance won audiences over globally. Of course, it would have been far too easy to go another route with this character. After all, Eddie was a metalhead and drug dealer, and his friendship now rivalled -- and even threatened -- the fan-favorite bromance between Dustin Henderson and Steve Harrington. Off the bat (pun unfortunate and unintended), viewers could have had another Billy Hargrove on their hands. Billy’s racism and abuse was chilling, but also, disconcertingly realistic. But it would have been reductive to alienate the misfit metal-obsessed nerd from audiences with similar behavior.Thankfully, Eddie’s compassion, honest reluctance to deal with the supernatural chaos, and endless flirting with Hawkins’ best babysitter showed the world what Stranger Things has been highlighting all along: heroes come from the most unlikely of places.Eddie Munson Defies Small Town Prejudice - And Our Own(Photo by Netflix)Like most of Hawkins, the main characters initially doubt Eddie’s innocence when it comes to the Vecna murders. They learn in no time how wrong they were, though. Hawkins might judge him, but those who truly understand Eddie Munson -- like the Hellfire Club and his Uncle Wayne -- know better.Eddie “The Freak” Munson is an outcast through and through, which is why the townspeople paint him as a satanic cult leader with loose morals. Even before the murders, fellow classmates and peers poke fun at his interests. In some ways, his story mirrors Winona Ryder’s — sometimes, no matter what you’ve done, you can never be enough for people. At his core, Eddie resonates with so many because he's so different.RELATED: Stranger Things Is Breaking One Dangerous (And Deadly) Hollywood PatternA metal fan in the ‘80s, you might expect him to be chauvinistic or homophobic, but he’s far from it. Within minutes of dismissing Erica Sinclair as a worthy player in his campaign, he accepts her. Eddie immediately defers to Nancy Wheeler’s leadership. He is deeply committed to art but considerate. He swears by nonconformity but stands by community. Subverting expectations everywhere he goes, Eddie is a safe space for the outcast in all of us.Eddie Munson Challenges Masculine Norms with Kindness and Vulnerability(Photo by Netflix)It makes perfect sense why the internet latched on to Eddie Munson. While his interactions with the tragic Chrissy Cunningham morphed into a catchy tune that is stuck in even actor Joseph Quinn’s head, his concern over the cheerleader undeniably drew audiences into his warm gaze. Early on, he has no clue what demons Chrissy faces, but TikTok user and actor Brittany Grove’s analysis of Joseph Quinn’s body language shows how, in a single scene, Eddie effortlessly puts Chrissy at ease. That is, until Eddie soon witnesses Chrissy’s brutal murder and runs away. RELATED: Stranger Things’ Millie Bobby Brown Has Powerful Words Against Sexualizing Her – And Hollywood Needs to ListenMany fans noted how writers foreshadowed his tendency to run, when, as Dungeon Master, Eddie tells his party, “There is no shame in running.” As beautiful as this personal philosophy is, he later expresses nothing but shame when confronting how he left Chrissy alone. Yet none of Eddie’s friends punish him for being afraid. Instead, they validate him. It's also important to note Eddie never sexualizes any female character. Not only does this challenge the norm within canon, it underlines how easy it is not to hyper-sexualize Stranger Things actresses like Millie Bobby Brown. His ability to respect women and share how he feels doesn't cancel out his personality... or that badass guitar solo. Why Eddie Munson and Steve Harrington's Relationship is Refreshing(Photo by Netflix)Rather than lean in to a predictable dynamic of macho rivalry, Joseph Quinn improvised lines hinting at Eddie having a crush on Steve Harrington. The two share a heartwarming moment in the woods amid Vecna’s mayhem where Steve comforts Eddie after they admit they were jealous of each other. This interaction matters. It matters because two monster-slaying boys set time aside to address how they feel and acknowledge the very real insecurities they had. Rather than telling each other to “man up” or put on masks of bravado, Eddie and Steve get real with themselves and each other. Honestly, romantic or not, it's refreshing to see Steve, who goes from being a people-pleasing jock to bat-swinging caretaker over the course of the show, make a friend his age.“I love you, man,” Eddie Munson says to Dustin before dying. There’s no doubt Eddie’s words will make it in the hall of fame of Stranger Things quotes. (Unsurprisingly, Joseph Quinn also improvised these last words. He's tapped into the nuance of his character with genius.)Eddie's tears or sometimes comedic screams don't undermine any of his sacrifice -- it doesn’t mean any less because of how loudly he feels. If anything, his sacrifice means more.Joseph Quinn’s Portrayal as Eddie Reveals the Importance of Found Family(Photo by Netflix)Another huge reason why Eddie matters beyond the realm of television is how his arc points to how important it is to find community. When dealing with body-snapping telepathy or more common life stressors, it's important not to feel alone. The Hellfire Club was not just a way to pass the time with D&D, but a place where outsiders could belong. (The shirts selling out shows just how much viewers can relate.)The truth is, it wasn’t just Eddie who was stuck in a box society created for him. He openly shares his misguided first impressions with the Hawkins gang, from Erica’s youth to doubting Steve’s good nature. The difference between him and a character like Billy or Jason is his ability to accept when he’s wrong. He even accepts these new characters as his friends. Even with a whole community against him, he held compassion for “lost sheep” until the very end.RELATED: 11 Stranger Things Quotes to Turn Your Life Upside DownEddie Munson tugs at so many hearts because of his own. Fans celebrate him not in spite of his eccentricity, quips, or quirks, but because of them. Despite the town's opinions of him, he stays kind and spreads the gospel of good music motivation through all kinds of danger. It’s no wonder the Stranger Things fandom is pumping out theory after theory on how he could return. Whether he does or not, one thing is for certain: Eddie Munson comforts and inspires anyone who’s ever felt like they were “too much.” Never change and rest in peace, Eddie.KEEP READING:​​What Wes Anderson’s ‘The Royal Tenenbaums’ Taught Us About Finding Humor in Trauma and Dysfunction

Matthew Perry Was Shockingly Wrong—Why We're Lucky Keanu Reeves Walks Among Us
Celebrities

Matthew Perry Was Shockingly Wrong—Why We're Lucky Keanu Reeves Walks Among Us

In recent weeks, Matthew Perry’s memoir Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing has been the talk of Twitter. From revealing how Jennifer Aniston saved his life to confessing how a medical scare forced him to reevaluate his career, Perry laid it all bare in his book. RELATED: Scott Steindorff: Killing Myself with Drugs and AlcoholBut among his deeply honest musings on co-star crushes and his battle with alcohol and drugs, was a take nobody seemed to appreciate: Why was Keanu Reeves still alive?What Matthew Perry Wrote About Keanu Reeves While reflecting on the death of River Phoenix, who Perry acted alongside in A Night in the Life of Jimmy Reardon, the actor observed: “It always seems to be the really talented guys who go down. Why is it that the original thinkers like River Phoenix and Heath Ledger die, but Keanu Reeves still walks among us?” RELATED: Keanu Reeves Surprises Entire Crew With $7000 Personalized Rolex Watches To Express His GratitudePerry went on to reminisce on how he punched a hole through Jennifer Aniston’s dressing room wall upon finding out about Chris Farley’s death. “Keanu Reeves walks among us,” he reiterated. In response to media backlash, Perry has since issued an official apology to People Magazine, saying he was “actually a big fan of Keanu.” According to the 17 Again actor, he chose Reeves’ name at random and admits he should have chosen his own instead.Though maybe Perry missed the point.How Perry Undermined Keanu Reeves and River Phoenix’s FriendshipIt’s time to peel back the layers here. Sure, Perry’s comments underestimated a versatile Hollywood icon. They also weren’t as grounded as Perry might hope. (One glance at the Matrix star’s filmography gives you a glimpse of his multifaceted portfolio.)For the public, what struck all the wrong chords was Perry’s insensitivity to the very real and deep friendship between Reeves and River Phoenix. Even in recent interviews, Reeves’ grief is palpable. In late 2021, he told Esquire how he hates “speaking about him in the past.” To Reeves, his best friend existing in past tense still feels foreign thirty years later. RELATED: How Julia Roberts and George Clooney’s Lifelong Friendship Helped ‘Save’ One AnotherIt’s ironic and all too human. Wrapped up in his own despair, Perry didn’t take into account the loss of the very person he was criticizing. Intentional or not, his subtle digs didn’t just pit one actor against the other. They called one friend’s value into question while putting the other on a pedestal.Perry’s grief and confusion are understandable. Losing anyone, much less someone gifted and kind is difficult to make sense of. Plus, it’s natural to compare yourself to idols — yes, even when you’re a celebrity yourself. But is it fair to diminish someone else’s worth entirely? Especially when that someone else is John Wick?Keanu Reeves Is a Gem of the People(Image by: Getty Images)Google “Keanu Reeves kindness” and you will find a plethora of Keanu articles and think-pieces heralding the actor as the kindest and most down-to-earth man in Hollywood. Here's Keanu gifting an entire movie crew, and Keanu organizing cars for plane passengers, or even Keanu accepting a stranger's wedding invitation. Reeves has more than earned this glowing reputation. RELATED: Taylor Swift Pays $6k to Cover a Fan’s College Tuition – And Changes Her Life ForeverReeves is part of a tragically short list of famous men who mind their own business. He emulates the fierce protectiveness of his action roles and embodies the tenderness required for a romantic drama. (Yeah, we’re still crying about The Lake House.) He humbly contains multitudes. We’re extremely fortunate to have him walk among us. It’s no surprise, then, how fans across the board became incensed by Perry’s evaluation of Reeves’ skill and general life. But Chandler Bing memes aside, there’s a lesson here.Perry v. Reeves Shows We All Can Be More Compassionate(Image by: Good Morning America)The age-old adage still rings true: “If you have nothing nice to say, say nothing at all.” It’s easy to point a finger to Matthew Perry. His memoir shows how the ways we measure success can narrow our perspective. It doesn’t help that his comments were inconsiderate and incorrect. (Keanu Reeves’ cameo in Always Be My Maybe is poetic cinema, after all.) Yet we can always go deeper. All of us could afford to offer more compassion to both the Keanu Reeves and Matthew Perrys in our lives. How many of us have made an unfair assessment of someone? How many of us throw away comments, tweets, and posts without a second thought on whether we’re tearing someone down? RELATED: How Keanu Helped Winona Ryder When No One Else Would Stand Up For HerOn one hand, we’ve all been Matthew Perry, inadvertently causing harm with one phrase while trying to do good. On the other hand, we might feel like Keanu — underrated and misunderstood. The Perrys of our lives might not see our struggles even if they definitely exist. Matthew Perry might never lay his eyes on this article (could that be any more depressing?). You did. So maybe we can rethink how we treat and speak of those who still walk among us.KEEP READING: Taylor Swift and Katy Perry Finally Buried The Hatchet After A Longstanding Feud

Chris Pine’s Got Jokes, Quotes, and Our Votes!
Quotes

Chris Pine’s Got Jokes, Quotes, and Our Votes!

Yes, Chris Pine is a nepotism baby. Not everyone is perfect. Thankfully, his diverse portfolio speaks for itself. To wider audiences, Pine is Star Trek’s Captain Kirk, Wonder Woman’s dreamy boyfriend, and most recently, Florence Pugh’s nemesis in Don’t Worry Darling. Meanwhile, those of us with taste — that is, millennials and Gen-Zers — might recognize him as Lord Devereaux of The Princess Diaries 2: A Royal Engagement.RELATED: Ariana Grande’s Most Inspirational Quotes About Life, Love, and Success Pine’s IMDb page is also full of indie projects. He sings. He reads voraciously. And despite being absent from social media, the Internet still swoons for him. Is it his love for literature? Is it his unapologetic fashion choices? Is it his zoning out during interviews?Sure, no one article can gather all the empirical evidence of Chris Pine’s charm, much less analyze it. But you can’t blame us for trying to delve into the actor’s psyche. Read on for Pine’s perspective on being mistaken for other celebrities, love, and the analog lifestyle.Pine's Grounded Sense of Humour(Photo by Getty Images)It’s always awkward when you’re recognized as someone else. The same is true for Chris Pine. He shared with Jimmy Kimmel many often mistake him for his fellow Chrises or even Ryan Reynolds and Matt Damon. But taking it in stride, Pine’s got a hilarious way to introduce himself for the unaware: “[I’m] Chris Evans, Captain America.”RELATED: Superman’s Most Inspirational Quotes That Prove He Really Is a ‘Man of Tomorrow’Beyond cracking jokes, Pine doesn’t seem to care much for the MCU clout. Back in 2018, Pine voiced blonde Peter Parker in Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. Though he took no part in the popular No Way Home, there were no hard feelings. Pine told Yahoo it was a “full team already” and he’d “happily sit this one out.”Chris Pine’s sense of humour comes from grounded self-confidence. He was secure enough to poke fun at his fame and able to celebrate his Spidey colleagues.Likewise, when it comes to the idea of pursuing music professionally, Pine says: “I’d love to. I’m sure we would get … eviscerated by that lovely thing we call the Internet … F*ck them anyway. Actually, just to spite them, I will.”Spiteful (or spit-full) as he is, Pine understands the importance of laughing at yourself.On Masculinity and Aging With Grace(Photo by: Warner Bros.)Pine pirouettes to the beat of his own drum. In March 2022, the actor’s current workout routine sparked headlines (even earning him a Men’s Health feature) when he revealed he takes ballet classes. The actor described the art form as “difficult” and “so beautiful because you have to be strong and kind of masculine, so to speak, but also very gentle and feminine with your arms and hands.”RELATED: 21 Tony Stark Quotes That Are Both Inspirational and FunnyHis ballet appreciation — which many still associate with white women — should come as no surprise to long-time fans. In a 2014 interview with Elle, Pine briefly acknowledged the ambiguity of what it means to be a man, calling masculinity a “pretty complex and pretty subjective” concept.With all this in mind, it’s not shocking how Pine swerves from the Hollywood culture of chasing youth. Embracing his silver fox status, he’s unabashedly “enjoying the aging process and the gray hair and the wrinkles.”He's As 'Down to Earth' As it GetsPine’s view on masculinity is by no means revolutionary, but perhaps some part of it must come from his passion for reading. In case you missed it, the Don’t Worry Darling star has spawned an unofficial book club and is often photographed frequenting local bookstores.Chris Pine has also prided himself on going analog. (The man was using a flip phone for years which says it all.) Recently, Pine opened up about the dangers of his new iPhone, or as he calls it, a new “crack machine.” He lamented his worsening reading habits — he now knew more about Pete Davidson and Kim Kardashian than literature.Pine just might crawl back to the comforts of his flip phone. Reflecting on the overwhelming atmosphere of the internet, he confesses: “I don’t know if my soul can handle it.”RELATED: The Best Mark Twain Quotes on Life, Travel, Politics, Education, Truth and LoveEvidently, Pine is an old soul and an introspective romantic. In fact, he’s rather optimistic about dating. He openly admits: “I love first dates. I think they’re incredibly fascinating studies in human psychology. When you sit down across from someone on a first date and things are going alright, you talk objectives. We want to win each other over, so how do you win someone over? You have to put the best foot forward.”He certainly won over the internet, limbs and all, when he said this in a public service announcement: “Ambition is very sexy.”His Motivations Behind the Screen(Photo by: Paramount Pictures/Everett Collection)For all his love for ambition, Chris Pine’s career goals aren’t set in stone. He’s 100% okay with this. He didn’t go into acting for the passion of it. To him, “acting was something that seemed to pop out of nowhere and then just took over” his life. Similarly, Poolman, his upcoming directorial debut, “started as this little pebble in a pond.”Pine lets the creative current lead and inspire him.This mindset is likely why he doesn’t think the Star Trek franchise shouldn’t try to replicate Marvel’s formula. Pine says the movies are “for [those] that love this group of people, that love this story, that love Star Trek.” A true cinephile, Pine also believes “they should focus on making it for a budget so that when it doesn’t make a billion, it’s still a win.”RELATED: 23 Ian McKellen Quotes on Acting and Being HonestIn 2014, he said this of his portrayal of Jack Ryan: “I didn’t want to make a film about a flag-waving American patriot. I was more interested in making a film about a man who responded to his own sense of right and good. I thought that was more important than some cold war vision of the world and right and wrong.”Whether he’s asking to be beamed up or playing a not-so-charming prince, Chris Pine brings his heart into every project. Except for horror. “I don’t want to bring that energy home with me,” he says. “Just not my thing.” (Hey, we love a man who knows his boundaries.)Mindful and Humble Wins the Race (and Hearts)(Photo by: Barry J. Holmes)Maybe what’s most alluring about Chris Pine is his superpower: minding his own business. In a conversation with Wonder Woman director Patty Jenkins, he described “being in the film and supporting a woman doing that job is kind of a dance between ego and soul.” By discussing his role as Steve Trevor with Jenkins, he learned not to center himself.“As a man and an actor and an ego-ful person,” he shared, “you really make peace with that and have a sense of humor about it and say, well, screw it then.” This self-awareness shone through his performance and the internet subsequently dubbed him as “the most supportive boyfriend.”RELATED: 8 Famous Quotes from Famous People That Will Inspire You to Love Yourself MoreEven after years in the business, Pine remains level-headed. With the wisdom of a veteran heartthrob, he says, “Hollywood is like living in a weird bubble. A bunch of people take care of you and get you stuff, and you’re the center of that little microcosmic world. You start believing that it is real.”Thankfully, Pine’s seen the light. “I’m certainly not the greatest actor in the world, but I consider myself someone who has a nice big tool bag,” he muses. (The same can be said for Don’t Worry Darling co-star Harry Styles.)While the public probably has something more generous to say of Pine, it’s comforting to know at least one Chris is doing the most … by doing the least. Less is more, right?KEEP READING: Best Dating Quotes to Keep You Motivated in Your Search for Love

Betty White Knows The ‘Secret’ – Why The Beloved Actress Wasn’t Afraid of Dying
Celebrities

Betty White Knows The ‘Secret’ – Why The Beloved Actress Wasn’t Afraid of Dying

Across social media in late 2021, it felt like the whole internet was rooting for Betty White to make it to her 100th birthday. Who could blame them? The Golden Girls actress spent decades bewitching us on and off the screen. RELATED: Betty White Revealed Why She Never Had Kids – And It’s an Important Lesson for EveryoneAnd while White passed away at 99 weeks shy of turning 100, we can rest assured she was anything but unprepared. Actor Ryan Reynold's said it best on his Proposal costar, "The world looks a little different now. She was great at defying expectation. She managed to grow very old and somehow, not old enough. We'll miss you, Betty."Betty White and Her Mother’s Inspiring Perspective on DeathAn only child born in 1922, White’s early childhood was set against the backdrop of The Great Depression. Life was far from easy. Still, growing up, White witnessed her mother Tess respond to loss with surprising hope. Reflecting on her mother’s optimism, the Mary Tyler Moore Show star once told Katie Couric, “Whenever we’d lose somebody, she’d always say, ‘Now, they know the secret.’”RELATED: 40 Betty White Quotes To Remind You To Stay Young At HeartAccording to White’s mother, there was no way of truly knowing what happens in or after death until you’d experienced it yourself. Simply put, the White family secret involved accepting the great unknown.Through the decades, as she came closer to facing that unknown, Betty White showed us how important it is to lead a fulfilling life. For her, “feeling young” meant committing to kindness and selfless service.How Betty White’s Love for Animals Sustained HerAll her life, White was rooted by her devotion to animal rights and their welfare. When she wasn’t on set, she was working with the likes of the Morris Animal Foundation and the Los Angeles Zoo. In 2006, the Los Angeles Zoo even named her “ambassador to the animals.” But her advocacy didn’t stop at working with animal rights organizations. If an acting project involved the mistreatment of an animal, she refused to take it on.RELATED: The Powerful Story Behind Betty White’s Refusal to Remove a Black Dancer From Her ShowBetty White was steadfast in her principles and self-confident, always looking out for any animal’s well-being. They brought her immense joy. It seems only natural she wanted to give back. Unsurprisingly, the comedian saw animals as one half of her life. (The other, of course, was show business.)As a child, White’s parents encouraged her to embrace an attitude of wonder when it came to animals. This enthusiasm impacted her activism greatly, even after she passed. On her hundredth birthday, Betty White fans were encouraged to donate to their local animal shelters. Dubbed the #BettyWhiteChallenge, the tribute was a clear mark of how powerful of an advocate she was.Betty White’s Last Words Show Us What Really MattersLove was at Betty White’s core. And if her compelling humor or activism didn’t give this away, it was her final words. According to her assistant, the actress spoke her late husband’s name as she drew her last breath: “Allen.”Betty White and Allen Ludden married in 1963. Through the marriage, White became stepmother of Ludden’s three children: David, Martha, and Sarah. The couple spent 18 years together before Ludden died in 1981 due to cancer. Notably, White never remarried and wore a ring Ludden gave her for years after his death.RELATED: 25 Wanda Sykes Quotes That Are Both Funny and InspirationalNot long after Betty White’s death, Vicki Lawrence, co-star and longtime friend, shared a short anecdote about White and Ludden. In the moving vignette, Lawrence described how the couple asked for a moment alone while at a Christmas party. They sat and dined quietly in Lawrence’s bedroom by the window, the city and party fading in the background.White died 40 years after her husband. It might be heart-wrenching to think of the grief she must have carried through those decades. But it would be a disservice to everything Betty White embodied if we didn’t see how she carried Ludden everywhere. Her dedication to bringing levity to audiences across the globe, animal welfare, and her family was anchored by unwavering love.The Secret Betty White Gave UsWith eight decades on television under her belt, and a breadth of life experience, Betty White was a light for many. She wasn’t just Rose or Sue Ann or the eccentric grandmother in The Proposal. Her life could never truly be watered down into roles on screen or at home as a wife and stepmother. She understood this deeply, once stating her desire to be remembered for her love for animals.RELATED: Love is Your Legacy and Happiness is Your Myth – Here’s WhyFor those of us left behind, we might not know the secret to what comes after death. But Betty White left us a secret of her own. She showed us firsthand how enriching life can be at any age, so long as you find the people and causes you care about. In the end, Betty White’s legacy is this: what’s untamed and unexpected isn’t so scary after all.KEEP READING: Olivia Newton-John Was a Great Entertainer but Her True Talent Was Even More Inspiring

How Stranger Things’ Jamie Campbell Bower Overcame Addiction
Celebrities

How Stranger Things’ Jamie Campbell Bower Overcame Addiction

Recognizable for his roles in Stranger Things, the Twilight saga, and The Mortal Instruments, Jamie Campbell Bower is as multifaceted as they come. It takes no expert to see that he “has the range.” But acting isn’t his only admirable trait (no, we’re not talking about his Vecna voice).RELATED: Ben Affleck’s Sobriety Journey Proves You’re More Than Your Parents’ MistakesThe English actor recently shared a powerful reminder about his sobriety journey: “We are all works in progress.”Bower’s Early Life and Career(Image by: Sony Pictures Entertainment)Born in London and raised in Petersfield, Hampshire, Bower grew up surrounded by music. Having both parents in the music industry, the 33-year-old performed at the local youth theater with his family’s support. Though initially drawn to the stage, he soon turned his attention to cinema.In 2007, Bower landed his first feature film playing Anthony Hope in Tim Burton’s Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. Though the film was a hit, Anthony Hope didn’t quite skyrocket his career. But after a stint of unsuccessful auditions, Bower wound up in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. He made a brief appearance as Gellert Grindelwald (Dumbledore’s ex-boyfriend), then entered the Twilight saga as ruthless vampire Caius.RELATED: Why J.K. Rowling’s Controversies Crushed Harry Potter Fans and Changed Celebrity CultureWhile he’s intimidating when called for, Jamie Campbell Bower is more than capable of leaning into his heroic side. Through the early 2010s, he played gallant King Arthur in Camelot and heartthrob Jace Wayland in The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones.Between acting gigs, Bower also stayed linked to music, (in fact, until the pandemic, Bower was the frontman of punk rock band Counterfeit, despite having moved on from the band, he is releasing new songs under the name Jamie Bower).Long before stepping foot on the Stranger Things set, Jamie Campbell Bower was talented as he was versatile. Though, like many celebrities striving for sobriety, he wrestled with himself backstage.Bower Battled Addiction Behind The Scenes(Image by: Netflix)At the start of his career, Bower was in his twenties. For many, your twenties is a season of immense personal growth. But on top of navigating this period, Bower was also dealing with the added pressures of being a burgeoning actor. And in late July 2022, he revealed another struggle altogether.Bower shared his addiction story on Twitter, writing: “12 and a half years ago, I was in active addiction. Hurting myself and those around me who I loved the most. It got so bad that eventually I ended up in a hospital for mental health. I am now 7 1/2 years clean and sober.”RELATED: Eminem Celebrates 10 Years Sober, Inspires People Struggling with Addiction to Open UpThe Sweeney Todd actor went on to humbly admit to “many mistakes,” promising those struggling there’s a way to heal. “Each day is a chance to start again. Atone for mistakes and grow,” he encouraged readers. Bower concluded his tweet with gratitude for his sobriety and emphasized how we can always change for the better.Seen by millions of followers and liked by thousands, Bower’s story made a huge impact in destigmatizing addiction. Many congratulated Bower for his transparency, some even being inspired to seek help for their own mental health. As a breakout star, his highly public self-reflection is noteworthy because his journey shows us anyone can grapple with addiction.More importantly, Jamie Campbell Bower shows us recovery is possible.What’s Next for Jamie Campbell Bower? Stranger Things and BeyondGoing forward, Bower is sure to see much more support from his ever-growing fanbase via heartfelt tweets, tuning into his future acting projects, and streaming his music.On August 12, 2022, the star released a music video for the song “I Am,” which unsurprisingly deals with duality. In the video, which already boasts over a million views, Bower acts as both an angel and devil. Clearly, his acting portfolio isn’t the only domain in which he’s mastered complexity.Speaking with Wonderland on his Vecna performance, Bower confessed: “Art offers a sense of constant evolution, so I never want to get to the place where I’m comfortable. I always want to be pushing myself and pushing my boundaries.” And did he push those boundaries, eight hours to get the monstrous look alone is a feat in itself.As Vecna, Jamie Campbell Bower served as Stranger Things’ metaphor for depression. He was a haunting, cruel, and true demon. Like Eddie Munson or Max Mayfield, we might run away or avoid our inner demons altogether. But Season 4 ultimately sees these characters learn the power of vulnerability. It’s this vulnerability that binds the team together to fight the Mind Flayer, paralleling Bower’s own bravery in speaking out about his path to sobriety.Addiction and mental illness might feel as gargantuan as the Mind Flayer. Dealing with it is no easy task. Some days, it might feel suffocating. Isolating. That’s the thing about stories like Stranger Things or Bower’s. Amidst everything, stories inspire. They comfort us.Jamie Campbell Bower’s story is one of many. But the simple fact he’s told it at all is uplifting — and it’s proof you’re never alone.KEEP READING: How Brad Pitt Focused on Sobriety and Self-Improvement After Split From Angelina Jolie

Why the Heck Are Harry Styles' Fans Throwing Chicken Nuggets at Him?
Celebrities

Why the Heck Are Harry Styles' Fans Throwing Chicken Nuggets at Him?

Harry Styles has been making a name for himself for years. With three critically acclaimed albums, two upcoming films, and being part of a historic boy band, he's got a lot of talent to go around. It’s no wonder he has deeply devoted fans, so devoted, in fact, they are not above throwing chicken nuggets at the singer mid-concert.RELATED: When Billie Eilish’s Tourette Syndrome Was Revealed by Fans, She Took Control of Her Own StoryWhile performing at Madison Square Garden in late August 2022, Styles took a moment to process the odd situation. Fans urged him to eat the nuggets but Styles only tossed them back into the crowd (he diplomatically reminded the audience of his dietary restrictions).Weird as Chicken Nugget Launch is, Harry Styles' fandom is all too familiar with the eccentric. At the Venice Film Festival, the Don’t Worry Darling star sparked a debate on whether he spat on co-star Chris Pine. Still, this debacle gives us another glimpse into the increasingly zany world of parasocial relationships.Harry Styles’ Relationship With His FansMany celebrities opt to avoid social media entirely. The internet can be merciless. It sometimes seems to punish public figures for having private lives in the first place. But social media undeniably connects us, offering a different angle on society’s role models. You could say this perceived intimacy is exactly why Harry Styles’ fans treat him like a friend or therapist.More often than not, Harry Styles reciprocates with his fans. He makes room for fan proposals during his shows. Styles offers earnest life advice when he can. He laughs in the face of Chicken Nugget Launch, meeting even the most absurd spectacles with the kindness he sings of.RELATED: Brad & Gwyneth Revealed a Surprise That Gave Their Fans Hope – 20 Years after Breaking UpThis back-and-forth mirrors BTS’ relationship with ARMY, renowned for its symbiotic nature of giving back to charities and building community. Yet like most internet phenomena, the intensity of pop star fandom is double-edged. Recently, Styles spoke out on how toxic fans can be about his relationship with Olivia Wilde.Styles views Twitter as a “shitstorm of people trying to be awful to people,” likely speaking from experience dating back to his One Direction era. But for the most part, Styles seems able to separate the shitstorm from the healthier corners of his fandom. After all, he’s more than happy to participate in what some would call oversharing culture.Is Harry Styles Enabling Unhealthy Fan Behaviour?Although many see Harry Styles’ fan interactions in a positive light for their sincerity, others are concerned with the singer’s boundaries or lack thereof. Of course, Styles does approach his personal life with caution. Early in his romances, he establishes the fact his partners will inevitably face scrutiny. It’s awkward but necessary.RELATED: Demi Lovato Fans Launch #HowDemiHasHelpedMe Twitter Movement – And Their Stories Will Make You CryBut in a world where anything personal can go viral, for better or for worse, is it healthy for Styles to encourage fans to treat him so informally? On one hand, it can be moving when we come across a video of Styles giving an impromptu therapy session to a fan. It feels good, perhaps validating, when someone we’ve projected an image of love onto acknowledges us. On the other, it can set unrealistic expectations for stars to always “be on.”Truthfully, as The Independent points out, Styles has a lot to gain from being friendly to fans. It’s good press, especially with Don’t Worry Darling and My Policeman on the horizon. Moreover, his openness can be flattering, seen as refreshing and authentic. But we can never really know if Styles does come from a place of authenticity, and even if he is sincere, it might be helpful for him — and us — to reconsider which lines we’re okay with blurring.How Society Encourages Entitlement and Spectacle(Image by: Nathan Congleton/NBC)We can’t pin the blame on Harry Styles or fandom. Tom Holland’s break from Instagram reveals no one is safe from the spiral social media can send us into. It’s not just the Harries. Regular people capitalize on documenting their children’s lives on YouTube or TikTok, often without their consent. More and more, our society is shaped by instant gratification and a sense of entitlement.RELATED: Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s Inspirational Message To His FansNone of us are entitled access to Harry Styles or any celebrity, much less their love lives. Motivations aside, Styles appears to enjoy connecting with fans. But how much intimacy can there be when there is a clear class divide and thousands present to witness your moment with someone who didn’t even know you existed?Really, there are no clear-cut “solutions” to the Chicken Nugget Launch discourse except for us to stay conscious of the very real factors at play when engaging in parasocial relationships. We can appreciate the spontaneity, humour, and kindness of Chicken Nugget Launch and question our tendency to act entitled to celebrities. After all, much like a chicken nugget, we contain multitudes.KEEP READING: Harry Styles Reveals Why He Feels Like a ‘Hostage’ in His Relationship with Olivia Wilde

What Gabbie Hanna’s TikToks Show Us About Compassion and Accountability
Celebrities

What Gabbie Hanna’s TikToks Show Us About Compassion and Accountability

Social media influencer Gabbie Hanna has accomplished a lot. A singer, comedian, and author, the 31-year-old earned millions of followers in a few short years. However, Hanna has known her fair share of controversies. In late August 2022, Hanna posted well over one hundred TikTok videos in a single day. In these videos, she is seen dancing, singing, and rambling about religion, aliens, race, and more. Her activity led to a wellness check by the LAPD, an alleged break-in, and growing online discourse on accountability.RELATED: How Elon Musk’s Dark Past with Mental Health and Neglect Created a Controversial IconHanna’s comments about the trans community and Black women are unequivocally harmful. And regardless what caused her erratic behaviour, the star must own up to these offenses. But how can we approach Gabbie Hanna’s actions with kindness and hold her accountable? Is this even possible?Gabbie Hanna’s Tumultuous Rise to Fame(Image by: Vanity Fair)Gabbie Hanna’s journey as an influencer started in the days of Vine, the short form video app which paved the way for TikTok. There, she posted six second skits until the app shut down in 2016. But “The Gabbie Show” went on, shifting to YouTube and eventually, TikTok.Currently, Hanna has over 7 million followers on TikTok. In 2017, she published Adultolescence, an illustrated poetry collection, followed by Dandelion in 2020. To boot, she is also a singer-songwriter whose album Trauma Queen dropped in July 2022. Yet, despite these accomplishments, for many, Gabbie Hanna is a name attached to words like “drama” or “controversy.”RELATED: Why We Need To Talk About Eminem Getting “Canceled” on TikTokIn the Youtube community alone, Hanna has been involved with multiple feuds. Some of these feuds are with Jessi Smiles, Trisha Paytas, and Joey Graceffa, to name a few. More than anything, though, the star has a reputation for being problematic.With this in mind, it’s important to reflect on Hanna’s mental health and its impact on her actions.What to Know About Gabbie Hanna’s Bipolar Disorder(Image by: Gabbie Hanna/YouTube)(Please note bipolar disorder is complex in its nature, much less as a topic. No one experiences mental illness in the exact same way. The author is also not an expert by any means but has lived experience with mental illness.)Over the years, Gabbie Hanna has been fairly open about her struggles with mental illness, namely with anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. The latter is often stigmatized in the media. Those with bipolar disorder are ridiculed, underestimated, and labelled “too crazy.”Generally, fans see Hanna’s monologues as the result of a “manic episode.” The American Psychological Association defines mania as “state of excitement, overactivity, … often accompanied by over optimism, grandiosity, or impaired judgment.” This definition may align with fans’ perception of Hanna’s TikToks. (In some, Hanna claimed to be the second coming of Christ.)RELATED: TikTok’s Most Dangerous Trick May Be Killing Your Happiness – But There Is A CureContrary to pop culture’s portrayal, bipolar disorder is not an emotional seesaw. It does come with both manic and depressive episodes. Everyone experiences these episodes uniquely in terms of length, frequency, or intensity. And difficult as it may be to live with, it is highly reductive to think bipolar disorder is untreatable.Truthfully, only trained mental health professionals working directly with Gabbie Hanna can speak to her state in terms of specifics. Only they can diagnose her and provide clinical support. Still, as an influencer whose behaviour has both concerned and harmed others, it’s inevitable the public will scrutinize Hanna.Mental Illness, Privilege, and AccountabilitySo, let’s talk about Hanna’s bigotry. Bottom line: her statements directly hurt marginalized communities and perpetuate wrong and harmful ideas. At first glance, it might seem there are two main opposing responses: Hanna needs to be held accountable versus Gabbie Hanna needs help and support.But what if we can hold these two truths?As a wealthy white celebrity, Hanna is afforded privilege. Some believe blaming her monologues on mental illness only undermines their negative impact, allowing those who are white and mentally ill to escape accountability. Others are calling for kinder commentary in light of her suffering.These are both crucial ideas which bring up the question of what accountability looks like for someone going through a manic episode in the moment. Rather than move past someone’s harmful behaviour on account of their mental health, we can call them out intentionally.RELATED: The Toxic Relationship That Made Millie Bobby Brown Quit TikTok – And How She Rose Above ItYouTube commentator Vangelina Skov, who is not a Gabbie Hanna fan by any means, recently called for a more compassionate lens. “If we are to assume [she’s] not attention-seeking, and it is a mental health crisis, I think having a million tea videos made about [her] saying that she’s acting horribly and she’s being a horrible person … is gonna make it worse. I think collectively, maybe we should try and right some of the wrongs and just try and be kind,” the Youtuber says.Skov’s response does not minimize the fact Hanna has done wrong, but accentuates the effect of high volume hate. Support does not mean breaking into someone’s house on account of a parasocial relationship. It also doesn’t look like turning a blind eye. Instead, it could mean encouraging Hanna to take a step back as she recovers before having her address her actions.At the end of the day, even after this episode passes, Hanna may not rescind her comments. Her self-reflection and growth is not our responsibility. But we all might benefit from approaching media figures as humans — with intentionality and compassion.KEEP READING: The Tragic Tale of Nikocado and the Dangerous Effect Tik Tok Fame Has on Mental Health

Florence Pugh and Zach Braff Secretly Broke Up - The Reason Why Is Deeply Concerning
Celebrities

Florence Pugh and Zach Braff Secretly Broke Up - The Reason Why Is Deeply Concerning

Florence Pugh’s electric performances in Midsommar, Greta Gerwig’s Little Women, and Black Widow earned her a huge following. (Her love for tzatziki and cacti didn’t hurt, either.) Although, when it came to the Don’t Worry Darling star’s love life, specifically her relationship with Zach Braff, reactions were mixed.RELATED: How To Get Over A Breakup: 9 Practical Steps To Heal Your HeartSo, understandably, when Pugh and Braff broke up earlier this year, they kept it a quiet affair — showing the world how celebrities have boundaries, too.Why Florence Pugh Kept Her Breakup a Secret(Image by New Line Cinema/Warner Bros.)In April 2020, Pugh and Braff became Instagram official when Pugh posted a candid of her partner in tribute for his birthday. But almost immediately after posting, Pugh disabled comments. The pair’s 21-year age gap was a contentious subject which spurred vicious comments, mainly aimed at Braff. Many accused Braff of taking advantage of the younger actress, who he directed in the short film In The Time It Takes to Get There.RELATED: The Story Behind Lady Gaga’s Most Romantic Breakup From Taylor KinneyThe outcry pushed Pugh to post a four-minute video defending her relationship. In it, she urged followers to reconsider their reactions, telling them: “I do not need you to tell me who I should and should not love. And I would never in my life, ever, ever tell anyone who they can and cannot love. It is not your place. And really, it has nothing to do with you.” She also asked viewers who disagreed to promptly unfollow her.More recently, Pugh shared with Harper’s Bazaar how she and Braff have been trying to move forward “without the world knowing, because it’s been a relationship that everybody has an opinion on.” For the two actors, making the split public may have felt like enabling the millions who would celebrate their breakup.Ultimately, it’s natural to have an opinion about celebrity relationships. Seeing glimpses of the people we admire being people can be validating. Comforting. Even fun. Likewise, it’s okay to even worry about celebrities … so long as it’s from a distance.The truth is, regardless of our opinions on her personal life, Florence Pugh and her boundaries deserve respect, far before she vocalized them.Florence Pugh & the Power of Parasocial RelationshipsFrom Tomdaya to the resurrection of Bennifer, the Internet always has something to say about celebrity couples. You could say Hollywood is our pantheon. But even more than the Greek gods, celebrities are human and judged for every choice. Stars like Florence Pugh live this firsthand, so they might not be as quick to share their personal life with the world.But why do we care this deeply about … well, strangers?RELATED: After Yet Another Breakup, Miley Cyrus Finally Realized Her One MistakeThe simple answer? Parasocial relationships. At their core, parasocial relationships are one-sided — people form attachments to media personas who might not even know they exist. Still, at the end of the day, these figures are carefully crafted personas. With social media, celebrities can use their feed to curate a palpable image. Anyone can win an audience over with enough relatable content and captions. But sometimes, this level of exposure encourages fans to project onto whoever they’re following.The strong responses Florence Pugh got when it came to dating Zach Braff were likely affected by the equally strong feelings fans had for her or Braff. Fans may have been concerned for the actress’ well-being. After all, age difference has long been a point of contention, especially when it comes to high-profile couples.One doesn’t have to look far to find other celebrity couples who’ve faced flak for an age difference. Pop star Harry Styles and Olivia Wilde come to mind, as well as The Originals’ Daniel Gillies, who disabled comments on a similar post about his partner Julia Misaki.Some might cite gender and power dynamics as cause to comment, but the reality is the only people who have a deep understanding of a relationship are the people in it. The glimpses of celebrities we get to see these days are just that: glimpses.We’re entitled to nothing more. Why We Should Respect Florence Pugh’s Boundaries(Image by: Florence Pugh/Instagram)In May 2022, Pugh dispelled rumours speculating that she and actor Will Poulter were dating. Taking to Instagram, the British actress voiced her frustrations: “I understand that the nature of this job is that you sometimes get your privacy completely bulldozed by paparazzi, but to fabricate this stuff actually does more damage than good.”RELATED: 24 Breakup Quotes that Will Help you Heal Your Wounds FasterYes, Florence Pugh is right. This is showbiz. But maybe we need to rethink that. Not every celebrity is willing to post about their lives, much less invite criticism and unsolicited advice. What we learn about celebrities should be on their own terms. Besides, hyperfocusing on celebrity breakups or potential relationships not only does real damage to real people and their very real feelings — it diminishes their work.Florence Pugh is an Academy Award nominee. At 26, she has an entire Wikipedia article dedicated to her list of accolades. She’s got style to rival Barbie and the Bratz. She has an infectious laugh. Hell, she could get her own cooking show. She’s a singer, friend, and sister. She is infinitely more than her relationships. It’s high time we act like it.KEEP READING: How Ryan Gosling Dealt With The Unfair Reaction To His Breakup With Rachel McAdams

How BTS’s 'Map of the Soul' Was Influenced by Carl Jung’s Psychology
Pop Culture

How BTS’s 'Map of the Soul' Was Influenced by Carl Jung’s Psychology

With BTS’s buttery vocals, irresistible beats, and Carl Jung’s psychology in its mix (literally), Map of the Soul rocketed to success in spring 2019. At first listen, you might not expect the album to examine Jungian concepts. Just how psychological could tracks like “Boy With Luv” be?RELATED: Kendrick Lamar's New Song "The Heart Part 5" Is a Heart-Wrenching Tribute to the Power of ForgivenessYet for the BTS fan base (or “ARMY”), this connection is no surprise. After all, the band has been using music to inspire fans to better themselves, and defy cultural expectations, since their 2013 debut. But they are no strangers to weaving thoughtful literary references into their music.After diving into their Love Yourself era (2017-2018), it seemed logical for BTS to move forward with exploring the self.‘Map of the Soul: Persona’ Reflects Our Inner StrugglesKim Namjoon on the set of 'Intro: Persona.'“Who am I? The question I had my whole life,” raps BTS leader Kim Namjoon in the opening track, “Intro: Persona.” According to Jung, a persona is the mask we don throughout life. While we might not be singing and dancing on a global stage, we all have behaviors we use to feel accepted. We all ask ourselves, “Who am I?” Dr. Murray Stein, author of Jung’s Map of the Soul, for which the album was named, observes how the album wrestles toward authenticity. It moves intensely, mirroring the band’s inner turmoil. Every track is infused with themes like self-worth, self-deprecation and belonging. In “Mikrokosmos,” one of many love letters to fans, the band sings about finding wonder in our humanity: “Perhaps the reason this night looks so beautiful / Is not because of these stars or lights, but us.” RELATED: What Shrek and Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah" Teach Us About Rejection and PerseveranceFinally, Map of the Soul: Persona culminates in a chaotic track, “Dionysus,” which may seem like a detour from Jung into Greek mythology. Yet even this song points back to the persona. Some fans see “Dionysus” as BTS abandoning the mask because of how the Greek god casts away inhibitions. Meanwhile, others recall Dionysus as “the masked god," or even an “outsider among gods." These fans theorize BTS might feel similarly.And in a cutthroat industry, and societal pressures blown up on a global scale, who could blame them for yearning to be real?But what “being real” entails for BTS might feel more coherent in the second chapter of the Map of the Soul era.How ‘Map of the Soul: 7’ Expands on Jungian Archetypes(Image by: HYBE Corporation)Released in early 2020, Map of the Soul: 7 is the follow-up album to MoTS: Persona, and even features the latter’s tracks. Unsurprisingly, this album also calls back to Jung’s work. The Jungian archetype “shadow” refers to our repressed desires and flaws — what might not be acceptable — while our “ego” is the conscious part of our psyche. In “Interlude: Shadow,” Suga raps about wanting it all. On the other hand, J-Hope raps about finally trusting himself in the introspective and joyful “Outro: Ego.” RELATED: How Frank Ocean Outsmarted His Record Label and What That Teaches Us About Self-BeliefThe album’s duality results in a profound, nuanced glimpse of self-actualization. We are never all shadow, ego, or our persona. We exist in multiplicities. Likewise, songs like “Louder than bombs” and “We Are Bulletproof: The Eternal,” which focus on the love between BTS and ARMY, underline the “collective unconscious,” which Carl Jung believed was a reservoir of the human experience and knowledge we all inherit. For instance, in “We Are Bulletproof: The Eternal,” BTS details how they overcame their hardships together — as a band and as a collective with their fans. “We are not seven with you,” Jungkook sings as the song finishes, reminding listeners they’re never quite as alone as they might feel.Why Navigating BTS’s ‘Map of the Soul’ Era Matters(Image by: HYBE Corporation)This era is iconic for many reasons, from stunning choreography and music to commemorating the septet’s seven years in the industry. Most importantly, though, Map of the Soul shows how defining yourself means facing your past. Real growth means talking about your feelings and what you've gone through.RELATED: Bob Marley's Deepest Thoughts - and How They Will Help You Reach a Higher LevelBoth installments of MoTS reference BTS’s past music. “Boy With Luv (feat. Halsey)” is a response to “Boy in Luv.” The gentle vocals of “We Are Bulletproof: The Eternal” juxtapose the more aggressive sound of “We Are Bulletproof Pt. 2,” released in 2013. Rather than tear down their early concepts and music, BTS builds upon what’s familiar. With the help of Jung, they acknowledge the shadow, ego and persona they’ve constructed, and carve a new way forward from regret. A gorgeous experience, Map of the Soul reveals the turbulence of finding yourself and the marvel of embracing every aspect of your journey.KEEP READING: 120 BTS Quotes That Will Remind You to Follow Your Dreams