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Womans First Job Was to Scrub Toilets at McDonalds - Now, She Owns 12 Restaurants
Entrepreneurs

Womans First Job Was to Scrub Toilets at McDonalds - Now, She Owns 12 Restaurants

Tanya Hill-Holliday is a familiar name in the McDonald's franchise. But she wasn't always. "I was told I wasn't supposed to be here, I was called every name BUT my name," she told CBS News.Luckily, she didn't listen. Now, she's the proud owner of a dozen McDonald's restaurants in Pennsylvania and her story of perseverance is inspiring others to dream big. From Scrubbing Toilets to Making History as Philly’s First Black Woman to Own a McDonald’sTanya Hill-Holliday landed her first job working as a part-time crew member at McDonald's while attending Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland. She was cleaning toilets, scrubbing baseboards, and wiping tables. It was far from glamorous. But that didn't matter, she enjoyed it anyway. "I always enjoyed what I was doing, as difficult as it was to be told, 'You got to clean a table, you got to clean the toilets, you got to scrub the baseboards." "'You got to do...' I did it."Tanya Hill-Holliday via CBS PhiladelphiaUpon graduating from university with a degree in management, she immediately jumped into the McDonald's management trainee program. She's never looked back. From there, she crawled her way up the corporate ladder, from crew member to supervisor to assistant manager to vice president. Despite being constantly told she didn't belong, she ignored the haters, put her head down, and just kept on working. It paid off.She's Lovin' It!Forty-four years and 13 positions later, Holliday is now the proud owner of a dozen restaurants. Using her stock options, she bought her very first franchise in 2005. Today, it's worth over $1.5 million. Not only was it her first restaurant, it was a first in the Philly history books. She is recognized as the very first African American woman to own and operate a McDonald’s in the “City of Brotherly Love.” Since then, she's purchased 11 more restaurants. Currently, she has more than 600 employees, some of whom have been with her from day one. She considers them all family.And now, she's giving back. She serves as the National Black McDonald’s Operators Association Chair and CEO of 168 entities across the U.S. According to its website, the NBMOA is "the largest organization of established African American entrepreneurs in the world."As the Chair and CEO, Holliday is committed to ensuring that "McDonald’s fully engages the African American community in an authentic, respectful, and positive manner." She plans to implement new and innovative programming to enrich the members and benefit the communities they serve. Never Give up on Your DreamsHolliday hopes her journey will inspire young people just starting out on theirs. "When you think you've hit a brick wall, go over the wall, go around the wall — if you gotta go under the wall — do what you have to do but just don't let roadblocks stop you. Keep persistent. Be strong."Tanya Hill-HollidayA little praying doesn't hurt either."Stay motivated, stay encouraged, stay prayed up. I stay prayed up all the time," Holliday added.With sheer perseverance and tenacity, Holliday proved her critics wrong. Not only that, but she went all the way, rising to the top AND making history. Not bad for a woman who started by scrubbing toilets.Her story is an inspiration to all of us. A trailblazer and a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs, she proves that determination, resilience, and the refusal to give up can lead to achieving even our wildest dreams. More from Goalcast:Freezing Homeless Man Goes to a Closed McDonald’s – Manager Defies All Rules and Does ThisLittle Girl Starts Screaming at McDonald’s – Mom Burst into Tears After Seeing One Employee’s ActionsWoman Takes Brother With Autism to McDonald’s – One Employee’s Behavior Towards Him Goes Viral

Man Is Forced to Sell His Car to Pay For Wifes Treatment Is in Disbelief When He Finds Out What His Family Has Planned for Him
Motivation

Man Is Forced to Sell His Car to Pay For Wifes Treatment Is in Disbelief When He Finds Out What His Family Has Planned for Him

Having nice things can make you feel good, but at the end of the day, what truly matters is that we have people we love and care about in our lives. Still, when someone is asked to sacrifice something in order to be with their loved ones in good health, it can be hard. That was the situation one man was put in two decades ago when his wife was diagnosed with cancer.A Hard GoodbyeYouTube/ABC NewsYears ago, Wesley Ryan learned his wife, Laura, had been diagnosed with ovarian cancer. The medical bills were piling up, and he knew in order to continue making ends meet, he would have to sell his beloved car: a 1993 Ford Mustang GT.Wesley loved that car and even nicknamed it Christine, based on the 1958 Plymouth Fury from Stephen King’s book, Christine. However, Laura meant more to him, and Wesley wanted her to continue getting the care she needed. So he handed over the keys.“I know how much it broke him in half seeing that car drive away from him,” his son, Jake, wrote on Facebook back in 2018, as per Today. “A day I’ll never forget.”Kids Work to Make It RightJake and his sister, Jeni, knew they wanted to help their dad reunite with the car he’d loved so much when they were younger. So they started an online search and surprisingly, they were able to track down the old car online. It had been 17 years, but the VIN matched.The siblings had saved up enough money over the years, knowing they would one day get their dad back his car. So when they found it, they, along with Jeni’s boyfriend Julian Valdez, put their money together and purchased it.They surprised their dad in the parking lot of a Kohl’s near where they lived in San Antonio, Texas. Laura, cancer-free for 13 years at the time, joined them for the big reveal.“Coming home surprising my pops was a feeling and moment I’ll never forget,” Jake wrote. “To see his face and emotion made it all worth it.”A Priceless ReactionWesley was moved to tears and couldn’t find the words as he approached his beloved vehicle. Jake posted a video online with a rendition of Zac Brown’s “My Old Man” playing in the background.“A day I’ll never forget. Well ... She’s back home, pops, and here to stay this time. Looking forward to building this car with you this time instead of being in a booster seat looking out the window,” the son wrote.The video was so touching that Ford even found out about it. And, when the car company learned that “Christine” had experienced some wear and tear over the years, it decided to step in. It gave the car a new engine, transmission, paint job, interior, and even a few extra modern features. Then, Ford had the family come out to Michigan, where Wesley was presented with the finished product.“It's still her, but she's got a new heart,” Wesley told NBC4 San Antonio. “I don't know, I'm at a loss for words. It's beautiful.”Remembering What Matters MostThis story is so beautiful because it shows the sacrifice one man made for his family and how his family stepped up to repay him in the sweetest way possible. The day Wesley said farewell to his car, he had made peace with the fact that he would probably never see it again. So long as he had his family, he was good.It’s a nice reminder that at the end of the day, material things are great and all, but they aren’t what truly matter. Family — even a chosen family — is what will bring you joy, comfort, and memories as the years carry on.Still, this story is also a sweet reminder that sometimes it’s nice to do something for someone when they least expect it. Wesley and Laura obviously raised their children to be thoughtful and generous, and in the end, they wanted to show their dad how much his sacrifice meant to them.While we can’t always lavish the people we love and care about with expensive gifts, we can tell them and show them how much they mean to us. Pick up the phone, send that text, or write a card to let them know you’re thinking about them.After all, no one ever regrets showing up for those who matter to us while we still can.More from Goalcast:Boy Has to Take Care of Little Sister After Mom Abandons Them – Years Later, Kelly Clarkson Has a Big Surprise in StoreWoman’s Dad Passed Away in an Accident – 13 Years Later, She Discovers a Surprising List Written by Him at Her HouseRecently Widowed Woman Struggles to Provide for Her Young Son – Then, a Stranger Gifts Her a Brand New Car

Jennifer Love Hewitt Today: How The Former Teen Idol Feels About Her 'Sex Symbol' Status 44 Years Later
Motivation

Jennifer Love Hewitt Today: How The Former Teen Idol Feels About Her 'Sex Symbol' Status 44 Years Later

What's the last you've heard about Jennifer Love Hewitt?The Texas native is best known for her iconic "it girl" roles throughout the early 2000s, so what has she been up to over the past two-plus decades?When the blockbuster slasher flick I Know What You Did Last Summer took the 90s teen world by storm, it seemed like Jennifer Love Hewitt came out of nowhere.But her seemingly overnight success was no fluke. Jennifer Love Hewitt had been working toward her breakout role for years---ever since she was a little girl, tap dancing in Texas...Jennifer Love Hewitt's Journey from Rising Star to Hollywood SuccessJennifer Love Hewitt didn't grow up in the entertainment industry---or even near it, for that matter. Hewitt grew up in a small town in Texas with her mother and brother, following her parent's split when she was just six months old.Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC-BYDespite her unconventional family life, Jennifer Love Hewitt had an unbreakable spirit and at the young age of three, showed a talent for singing.At just three years old, Hewitt was already hitting the high notes, and taking her show on the road. From local livestock shows to community dance halls, little Jennifer Love Hewitt would perform anywhere that would let her.Soon the toddler added tap dancing and ballet to her show-business repertoire, and by nine years old, Hewitt had already performed in the Soviet Union after joining a touring dance troupe.But her biggest break was yet to come...At the tender age of 10 years old, the multi-talented Jennifer Love Hewitt, was crowned "Our Little Miss" Texas. After winning the beauty pageant, talent scouts suggested Jennifer Love Hewitt's mother, consider relocating to Los Angeles, so Jennifer could pursue a more serious career in film and television.For five years, Jennifer tried to find her way to break into the industry, with no luck. But as the age-old adage goes---it's all about who you know. Lucky for Jennifer, she happened to go to the right high school at the right time. While attending Lincoln High School, Jennifer Love Hewitt befriended an older classmate whose side hustle changed everything for her.ShutterstockParty of Five was the 1994 teen drama that earned an overnight following. The hit show followed the lives of the five Salinger siblings who become orphans after their parents are killed in a car accident caused by a drunk driver.When a Party of Five casting call was on the hunt for the girl-next-door love interest to bad-boy heartthrob Bailey Salinger in season two, Jennifer Love Hewitt's former classmate thought the young Texan would be perfect for the role—and he was right.As fate would have it, after introducing Jennifer to the Party of Five creators, casting fell in love with her, and at 15 years old Jennifer Love Hewitt landed her first series regular role as the bubbly Sarah Reeves!But Jennifer Love Hewitt was just getting started.Her breakout role would come three years later, with the 1997 summer box office smash hit I Know What You Did Last Summer.From Little Miss Texas to Teen Dream QueenAfter I Know What You Did Last Summer, Jennifer Love Hewitt became the unofficial dream girl, of teen boys everywhere.Columbia Pictures / Everett CollectionHer girl-next-door looks made her a softer counterpart, to her sassier co-stars like Buffy The Vampire Slayer's kick-ass Sarah Michelle Geller.Jennifer Love Hewitt stood out from her contemporaries because she had an approachability to her. She came off like the nice popular girl you had a crush on in high school, who might not kiss you but at least wouldn't kick you in the hallways at school, you know?And if you don't believe me, just watch Can't Hardly Wait (if you haven't already)!Can't Hardly WaitColumbia PicturesCan't Hardly Wait was the 1998 teen rom-com that today, has totally solidified its status as a coming-of-age cult classic.Can't Hardly Wait follows the adventures of several graduates on their last crazy night in high school. Everyone's trying to lose their virginity or get revenge on their high school bully for tormenting them for years!In the best typecast of all time, Jennifer Love Hewitt plays the beautiful, teen dream girl, Amanda: the object of the artistic Preston's affection.But all the attention came with more pressure than Jennifer Love Hewitt was always able to handle.MaximLooking back on her youth, Jennifer Love Hewitt today opens up about what it was like to be objectified by men in power at such a young age."The conversation for a very long time in my career was always about [my body] first — then, “Oh yeah, you were really great in the movie, too,” later. I didn’t get it. That’s just what I looked like, and I was doing my job. I just started to [prepare myself], like, I know I’m doing an interview today, so I’m pretty sure at least 20 of the 40 minutes is going to be about boobs and body stuff, so we’ll just get that out of the way and then maybe they’ll ask me something else. When I watched that Britney Spears documentary, it hurt my heart a little bit, because I remember in hindsight having that feeling. I’m really grateful that we’re in a time where, hopefully, that narrative is going to change for young girls who are coming up now, and they won’t have to have those conversations'.- Jennifer Love Hewitt, VULTURELike so many other skinny female celebrities who are better looking than the rest of us (see: Scarlett Johanssen Shutting Down Sexist Comments For 5 Minutes Straight) Jennifer Love Hewitt has battled her fair share of being objectified by men---and unlike myself and Amy Schumer---wants it to stop.Ron Galella Collection / Getty ImagesDuring an interview with the panting dog of late-night hosts, Conan O'Brien, (an interaction which did not age well), the then 20-year-old Jennifer Love Hewitt hugged Conan O'Brien as she sat down for his show, and for some reason, Conan O'Brien can't let this hug go.Conan references "the hug" upwards of 15 times, trying to get the suggestive point of hugging this 20-year-old girl across to his hooting and hollering audience and the mere suggestion of embracing this woman--even throwing a growl in there for good measure. And while Conan has genuinely never interested me, people love him. In fact, people seem to be fans of hosts like Conan and Howard Stern. But at such a young age, in the late '90s, Jennifer Love Hewitt didn't know any better, but these men did, and that's exactly the problem.Everrett CollectionAs her career evolved, Jennifer starred in more provocative films, like Heartbreakers, along with legendary actress Sigourney Weaver. However, these roles didn't cement Jennifer Love Hewitt's status as a "serious" actress. They merely opened her up to more hyper-sexualization."At the time that I was going through it, and interviewers were asking what now would be incredibly inappropriate, gross things, it didn’t feel that way. I mean, I was in barely any clothing [in Heartbreakers]. For some reason, in my brain, I was able to just go, Okay, well, I guess they wouldn’t be asking if it was inappropriate. But now, as a 42-year-old woman with a daughter, I definitely look back on it and go, Ew. And it really started with I Know What You Did Last Summer, because that was the first time that I had worn a low top, and on Party of Five, my body was very covered. At a press junket for I Know or I Still Know What You Did Last Summer, I remember purposely wearing a T-shirt that said “Silicone Free” on it because I was so annoyed, and I knew something about boobs was gonna be the first question out of [reporters’] mouths. I was really tired of that conversation. With Heartbreakers, that was a big part of it. I was disappointed that it was all about body stuff, because I had really worked hard in that movie to do a good job as an actress. So I remember one specific moment wishing that the acting had overshadowed all that — that for five minutes, they had said I was really great in the movie versus made a body comment. Now that I’m older, I think, Gosh, I wish that I had known how inappropriate that was so I could have defended myself somehow or just not answered those questions. I laughed it off a lot of the time, and I wish maybe I hadn’t.- Jennifer Love HewittAs she matured and became more of a household Hollywood name, Jennifer Love Hewitt steered her career in a less exploitive and more empowered direction.Jennifer Love Hewitt's Approach to Career and FamilyToday, Hewitt is proud of the work-life balance she was able to achieve.In 2012, she snagged a Golden Globe nomination for her work on Lifetime's series The Client List—but that's not all she snagged!She met and fell for her The Client List co-star Brian Hallisday and the couple tied the knot a year later, in 2013. Following the ceremony, a few days later, life got even better for the happy couple as the actress and her new beau welcomed their first child, daughter Autumn James. Casey Rodgers/Invision/APThe Hewitt-Hallisday family would double with sons Atticus and Aidan James joining them in 2015 and 2021. After killing it (pun intended) on Season 10 of Criminal Minds, Jennifer Love Hewitt decided it was time to take a step back from acting in order to raise her kids.In an exclusive interview with ELLE, Jennifer Love Hewitt revealed after a rigorous shooting schedule for her one-season on arc on Criminal Minds (while she was pregnant with her son Atticus) she realized she wanted to be putting her energy into being a full-time mother.I was looking in the mirror, talking with myself, going, ‘Hey, we started something, remember? We were gonna take a step back. So let’s do that.'- Jennifer Love HewittThe actress took a three-year break from acting but was warmly welcomed back by fans when she announced she would be returning to the screen with her new FOX procedural drama 9-1-1.Recent Projects and On-Screen VenturesJennifer Love Hewitt showed her range taking on the role of the fierce 911 responder Maddie Buckley.But her performance wasn't the only thing that left fans stunned. The brunette bombshell shocked fans when she made some trendy fashion choices and traded her signature locks in for a new look!What’s Next for Jennifer?Jennifer Love Hewitt today is continuing to make headlines for empowering women.Hewitt took to Instagram to give fans a more honest depiction of how aging isn't always the easiest thing.In a heartfelt Instagram post on her 44th birthday, Hewitt admitted to her 1.4 million followers, that she "gets insecure about aging."Nearly 30 years later, Jennifer Love Hewitt is still as beautiful and iconic as ever...and she's not done yet!Fans can expect big things coming from Hewitt next year, as Jennifer Love Hewitt is rumored to be part of the Garfield (2024) reboot alongside A-Lister Chris Pratt, and an I Know What You Did Last Summer sequel is apparently in the works at Sony.

Millionaire Reads About Homeless Couple in the News - Shocks Neighbors by Inviting Them to Live In His $4M Mansion
Motivation

Millionaire Reads About Homeless Couple in the News - Shocks Neighbors by Inviting Them to Live In His $4M Mansion

For a decade, Greg Dunston and Marie Mckinzie were among the 8,000 people experiencing homelessness on the streets of San Francisco. At least they were, until millionaire Terry McGrath invited them to stay with him in his home.San Francisco has an infamous issue with homelessness. While being the richest city in America with a largely liberal population, many avert their eyes and refuse to support measures to remedy the issues causing it.Down on Their LuckPhoto by PixabayBut instead of waiting on others to do something, Terry McGrath did his part to help. He read an article in the San Francisco Chronicle about Greg Dunston and Marie Mckinzie, a lovely couple who defied the stereotypes of the type of who live on the street. They weren't alcoholics or drug addicts and they didn't have mental health issues. They did have disabilities -- Dunston is blind in one eye and Mckinzie has a disease that makes it a struggle to walk -- but mainly they were down on their luck."The thing that struck me and got me right away was the love between Greg and Marie and how it was able to survive in probably one of the harshest environments on earth," McGrath told ABC News. "I could feel it."So, McGrath did something unbelievable -- he invited them to stay with him in his $4 million home."There was no decision, there was no thought, there was no judgment. I was just like 'this is done,'" said McGrath, who was divorced and an empty nester so he had plenty of extra room. "I didn't vet them. These are human beings and they're not serial killers. They want to get in out of the weather. They want a roof over their head. They want to be warm."Dunston and Mckinzie were thrilled about McGrath's hospitality."We wanted to do that," Dunston said about moving into McGrath's home. "There are a lot of people out on the streets but they have no choice.""I don't want to live on the streets. A lot of people do, but I want to get in. I love to cook a lot so I wanted a kitchen, bed and shower."Marie Mckinzie Discriminatory NeighborhoodWhen the couple moved in, Taylor warned the local police force in his upper-class neighborhood that they were there with his permission. It was a good thing he did, because shortly after their arrival a neighbor called 911 on the couple simply for existing."I just pulled into the driveway and there's some strange folks hanging around the house," the neighbor said.Another called police to say, "I just wanted to notify you that this woman is sitting at Lexford and Hampton ... She's smoking a cigarette, could be drugs."When McGrath heard one of the neighbor's complaints, he couldn't believe his ears. "I realized when she mentioned the word 'situation' that she was referencing Marie and Greg. And I said, 'What situation? Are they vandalizing cars? Are they burglarizing homes?'"He continued, "I just said, 'This is one of the most offensive conversations I've ever had.'"Everyone Deserves to Have a Roof Over Their HeadsAccording to a local journalist, Piedmont's residents are 74 percent white, 18 percent Asian and less than 2 percent Black.At the time the article was released in early 2020, the formerly homeless couple had been living with McGrath for a year, and he had no plans to kick them out. "They're like family. There's no way I'm going to let them go back to the street," he said. "Most people who know me well know it's easy to start and it's hard to finish. And I'm never not going to finish."San Francisco's homeless situation is truly a national disgrace, and those who say nothing can be done simply need to see this story for proof that individual acts of kindness are possible and will help. No matter who they are or what decisions they've made in their life, everyone deserves a roof over their head if they want it.More from Goalcast:Homeless Couple Couldn’t Afford to Get Married for 24 Years – Then a Stranger Throws Them a Surprise WeddingOwner Asks Homeless Man to Leave the Premises but He Keeps Coming Back – Finally, He Decides to Take a Different Approach

Man Was Refused a Loan Because He Was Broke - 18 Years Later, He Buys the Same Bank for $590K
Entrepreneurs

Man Was Refused a Loan Because He Was Broke - 18 Years Later, He Buys the Same Bank for $590K

We all remember our lowest points. The memories from those times never leave us: what happened, how we got out of it, but also how we were treated when we needed help the most. Adam Deering never forgot his humble beginnings. In 2002, he was near-broke, and tried to get a £10,000 loan at the RBS branch in Urmston, Greater Manchester. He was denied.The once almost penniless man is now a wealthy businessman, and he’s marked the difference two decades can make by buying the bank that denied him his first chance. This is how he did it.The Bank Refused Him a Loan at His Lowest PointPhoto by Yurii HleiAt the age of 21, Adam had ambitious plans for his future. Believing in his capacities, he decided to take a chance on himself and his business idea."I quit my job as a salesman aged 21 because I knew I had it in me to create a successful business, but I didn't have a penny to my name so I needed a bank loan," Adam said in Daily Mail.He walked into the bank fully prepared, but got a crushing response.I presented them with a comprehensive business plan and asked for £10,000 but the bank manager didn't seem to take me seriously at all.Adam Deering"I was devastated when she told me I was too young and inexperienced and there was no way they could take a risk on me," Adam continued.But He Never Gave Up on His PlanDespite the disappointing defeat, Adam never abandoned his idea. At the time, he went right back to work, toiling hard from the floor of a small office as he could not afford a desk and a chair.Without the money I spent four months cold calling people from the floor of a small office because I couldn't even afford a desk and a chair.Adam Deering"Those early months were so difficult, not knowing if I was going to be able to make it work and not knowing if I'd be able to pay my bills," he continued.He finally got help from his good samaritan neighbor, Chris, who helped him set his life straight and get a job. He ended up working in debt management (ironically) and then quit when he was ready to launch his own venture. 18 Years Later, the Tables Have TurnedWhile the beginnings of his venture were not easy, Adam continued to believe. He spent his last pennies from his sales salaries to rent a small office."There were lots of times where I thought it was the end, but I refused to give up and it paid off," he said.Eventually, his hard work yielded amazing results. Adam now heads five multi-million companies, so he could well afford to buy the bank's building for £450,000. His plans is to renovate and convert the building into an 8-apartment complex and a retail unit.Adam spends his free time now as a motivational speaker, helping to guide others as he has been guided himself back when he was a teenager who was expelled from school and spent his time doing small-time crime before falling into a cycle of getting fired from jobs.Determination Always Pays OffThe businessman said: "Building a business from scratch certainly isn't easy and there are always times when you wonder if it is going to work out. The key is to stay true to your vision and keep going, there will always be hurdles to overcome.""When I was turned down for the loan, it was tough but because I had a dream and I was so focused on achieving it, I made it happen anyway," he admitted.Adam was able to turn a defeat into an incredible win, even if it took years for it to materialize. Buying the bank that refused him was a celebration of his own resilience."To me, buying the bank building brings things back full circle and it shows that I was right to keep believing in myself," Adam said.More from Goalcast:“He Started Crying”: Man Stops Bank Robbery By Talking to Him and Giving Him a HugBank Calls Police On 92-Year-Old For Creating Disturbance – Officer Leads Him Away And Reacts UnexpectedlyHow A Struggling Single Mom With $12 In Her Bank Account Rescued Herself To Become A Millionaire CEO

Don't Mess With Megan Fox's Kids: Why the Hollywood Bombshell is Finally Firing Back Against Her Critics
Motivation

Don't Mess With Megan Fox's Kids: Why the Hollywood Bombshell is Finally Firing Back Against Her Critics

Megan Fox is no stranger to all the backlash that comes with fame, but whatever you do---don't bring Megan Fox's kids into it.Fox has been in the public eye since she was 15 years old when she scored her first role in Mary-Kate and Ashely Olsen's Holiday In The Sun. Over the course of her 22-year career, Megan Fox has had her fair share of success. From Transformers to Jennifer's Body, Fox made waves in Hollywood for essentially being every teenage boy's dream girl. Paramount PicturesCoincidentally, Fox even snagged Beverly Hills, 90210 teen heartthrob Brian Austin Green.But nothing comes for free.Especially fame. And Megan Fox was subject to her own share of scandals (like how the Tennesse actress comparing director Michael Bay to Hitler got her fired from the Transformers franchise.)But Fox has thick skin and doesn't let her critics get under it.Megan Fox Has Had To Prove HerselfThe backlash comes with the territory. When you're next-level-gorgeous and have an IQ of 149 (FYI that's higher than Bill Gates and Jeff Bezos), you'll pick up some haters along the way.Her saving grace? Megan Fox knows her worth and has a good sense of humor."I've learned that being a celebrity is like being a sacrificial lamb. At some point, no matter how high the pedestal that they put you on, they're going to tear you down."- Megan FoxThe Jennifer's Body star will often complement her fashion-forward Instagram posts with satirical captions like:"Guys you don't understand it's just like...really hard when the only thing anyone ever notices about you is how smart you are".And even though her internet trolls take everything she says way too literally, Megan Fox doesn't really pay attention to all that---or at least, she didn't use to... until someone made the mistake of bringing Megan Fox's kids into it.They Said She Was A Child AbuserSay what you want about her but talk about Megan Fox's kids? Be prepared that the fierce mother of three will say something back, and if you're politician Robby Starbuck...you probably won't like it.Megan Fox slammed Republican politician Robby Starbuck on social media, when the US politician spoke out about how Fox was "abusing" her children.In a since-deleted tweet-- former U.S. Congress candidate Robby Starbuck accused Megan of forcing her three sons — Noah (age 10), Bodhi (age 9), and Journey (age 6), whom she co-parents with ex-husband Brian Austin Green — to wear dresses against their wishes.In a 2022 interview with GLAMOUR magazine, Megan went on the record to say she reminds her son Noah you can express yourself through your clothing however you want.Granted, yes.Fashion design has never been Megan's strong suit. As is evident with the liberal use of her personal celebrity stylist who is responsible for this Lord Farquad look:But it's not about that. It's about this politician losing his sh*t on Twitter.Theimagedirect.com"These are Megan Fox's sons," Starbuck tweeted alongside a screenshot of Megan out with her boys. "We used to live in the same gated community and our kids played at the park. I saw 2 of them have a full on breakdown saying they were forced by their mom to wear girls clothes as their nanny tried to console them. It's pure child abuse. Pray for them." - Robby Starbuck, Twitter (deleted)First of all! Bodhi is named after Patrick Swayze's character in Point Break, and you are named after the COSTCO of coffee chains, mind your business, sir!Megan Shut Her Critics DownAs soon as she caught wind of his tweet, Megan Fox wasted no time to get online to tell Starbuck (and anyone else who agreed with him) exactly how misguided it was to call her a "child abuser."“Hey @robbystarbuck I really don’t want to give you this attention because clearly you’re a clout chaser. But let me teach you something. Irregardless of how desperate you may become at any given time to acquire wealth, power, success, or fame - never use children as leverage or social currency. Especially under malevolent and erroneous pretense. Exploiting my child’s gender identity to gain attention in your political campaign has put you on the wrong side of the universe.I have been burned at the stake by insecure, narcissistic, impotent, little men like you many times, and yet i’m still here. You f**ked with the wrong witch."- Megan Fox, on her InstagramLet this be a lesson to us all -- not to mess with Megan Fox's kids!Her Ex-Husband Came To Her DefenceJonathan Leibson/Getty ImagesWhile divorcees Brian Austin Green and Megan Fox had their ups and downs, Green quickly joined the conversation to back up the mother of his children. "As a society I hope we continue to push to be better. This Robby Starbuck person is full of s**t, and I have no idea who he is."- Brian Austin GreenThis is not the first time Austin Green has come to his ex-wife's defense. Green shares son Kassuius Lijah Marcil-Green with his ex-wife and former 90210 co-star Vanessa Marcil. Recently, Marcil was asked on an instagram live stream about what it is like to co-parent Kassius. The actress claimed she "Raised [her] son alone" but Green fired back."Megan and I bust our asses to give Kass a well-rounded childhood" Brian Austin wrote. "since his mom was rarely there."Don't Judge A Book By Its CoverMegan Fox's relationship with now-husband Machine Gun Kelly has grabbed headlines since day one. And yes, while the couple are known for their over-the-top public displays of affection...Getty ImageAnd their unorthodox choices of jewelry...These theatrics are ultimately a public persona, right?None of it is indicative of who Megan Fox is as a mother to her three sons---and a couple of shots on Instagram definitely don't give us the full picture of who Fox has been as a mom, day in and day out, for the last decade.Trying to Give Her Kids A Better LifeDespite their respective fame, Brian Austin Green and Megan Fox work to nurture their children away from social media and negative press attention, even if it's not always easy.Fox was quick to defend her eldest child, Noah when he was allegedly bullied for wearing a dress. Fox celebrated her son Noah who she called a "gentle soul," sharing he is an "unbelievable pianist" who "can learn Mozart's concerto in an hour."Megan Fox's Kids Shouldn't Have To Go What She Went ThroughThe parallels between the objectification Megan Fox faced as a young actress and the fears she has for her children facing a similar kind of scrutiny are understandable.Fox has been candid in the past about her confusing and exploitative relationship with fame, especially as a young, hyper-sexualized, woman.What people don't realize is that fame, whatever your worst experience in high school, when you were being bullied by those ten kids in high school, fame is that, but on a global scale, where you're being bullied by millions of people constantly.- Megan FoxYears later, in her adult life, Fox still faces this same 'bullying' multiplied by the millions. A trip to Megan Fox's Instagram comment section reveals, that (shocker) faceless, traceless, nameless, strangers on the internet can be really nasty. The flip side of fame is that for every fan lifting you up, there are 10 haters tearing you down.So yes. It makes sense that Megan Fox would want to protect her children, who didn't choose this life, from the public eye for as long as she can. Celebrity Parents Are Just Like UsBack GridAll any loving parent wants is to see their child safe, healthy, and happy---but the truth is sometimes the world has other plans. Eventually, kids grow up and it's their turn to navigate the world on their own. You can't protect them forever, but you can prepare them. Sometimes all you can really do is lead by example--- and when it comes to keeping your head held high above all the criticism and the noise, Megan Fox is she's doing a great job.PinterestMore Celebrity Stories From Goalcast:Inside Megan Fox’s Disturbing Battle With HollywoodKatherine Heigl’s Adoption Journey Reveals Another Facet Of MotherhoodWhat Happened To JoJo? The Teenage Sensation Who Fought To Love Herself

Distraught 79-Year-Old Is Pulled Over for Speeding - He Did Not Expect the Treatment He Received From the Cop
Motivation

Distraught 79-Year-Old Is Pulled Over for Speeding - He Did Not Expect the Treatment He Received From the Cop

Being out on the road and then being pulled over by the police could be a really frightening and intimidating experience -- especially if you are an older person who doesn't have the best coordination and cognitive function.But when one elderly man was pulled over, the situation worked out rather well for him! A Surprising Reason for SpeedingIn a video that the Sterling Heights Police Department shared on Facebook, an officer pulls over a 79-year-old driver named David who seemed upset and near tears.Officer Coates took some time to talk to David, and learned his wife was unwell and he also had a special needs son. David went on to say that the only reason he was speeding in the first place was to find the right cables for his newly purchased TV that he had bought to cheer up his family."I really try to drive right. I bought a new television today because I wanted to make my wife happy, you know, and I can’t get it hooked up." DavidUnderstand Before You JudgeDuring the conversation, David also confided that he wasn't technologically savvy and was hence hoping to find someone who could help him. "Everything’s going wrong," David said, looking visibly distraught.Coates didn’t give David a ticket; instead he offered to come by his house after his shift and help set up the TV. An hour later, he brought some colleagues, and made good on the promise! We should never judge a book by its cover. It may be scary sometimes when we think we are in trouble, and that we may get a ticket or a reprimand, but be honest about what you are going through and you just may find someone who wants to help you!More from Goalcast:Elderly Man Lost His Wife Over 50 Years Ago – Breaks Down When He Gets to See Her “Come to Life”Elderly Man’s “Grandson” Calls Him Asking For $2,300 – A Walmart Cashier Immediately Stops Him From Getting ScammedBe empathetic “You can only understand people if you feel them in yourself.” – John Steinbeck.

Bella Thorne Now: A Close Look at What Happened to the Former Disney Star
Motivation

Bella Thorne Now: A Close Look at What Happened to the Former Disney Star

In defense of Bella Thorne now (who seems like she might be kind of cool?), growing up is hard and it's a lot harder when you have a bunch of strangers watching you do it...Leave Britney—and Bella alone!We've got a lot to cover about Bella Thorne today. From her Disney emergence to scandals, her dating life, and where she is now, get ready to dive in:Who is Bella ThorneA Star-Maker or Star-Breaker? Landing Shake It Up!Finding Herself After DisneyWhere is Bella Thorne Now: Scandals, Successes, and Speaking OutWho is Bella Thorne, Really?At only 25 years old, Bella Thorne has spent 24 and a half years of her young life in the entertainment industry. Her first paid gig started when she was just 6 months old in Matt Damon's buddy comedy, Stuck On You in 2003. In the years since, Thorne's IMDB page sports a staggering 122 acting credits in the years since her 6-month-old film debut. Steve Granitz/GettyThorne is one of many famous Disney Channel alums -- starring as 'CeCe' alongside Zendaya in their show Shake It Up!. In the years since the Disney show ended, the now-25-year-old has had a controversial career trajectory.But don't get it twisted, Bella Thorne doesn't deserve the heat. The internet (as per usual) has done a bang-up job of painting Bella Thorne in an unflattering light. Mocking Thorne's creative choices, slut-shaming her for releasing her own nudes after being blackmailed, and routinely comparing her to her friend and former co-star Zendaya. (The two-time Emmy-winning actress, and #1 draft pick for 'America's Sweetheart.' Yes, an actress so beloved she could drop her last name.)Still, Bella Thorne is, by even the highest standards, resilient.Since her departure from Disney Channel*...*the totalitarian children's TV network that almost fired Thorne at 14 years old for wearing a bikini top...at the beach!...Thorne has been on the receiving end of countless controversies, and maybe, just maybe, more than her allotted share.Pulling back the curtain on Bella's life, if only just an inch, it would seem that perhaps, for her haters, critics, and Whoopi Goldberg, some empathy is in order.She Started Modelling at 6 Weeks Old Born Annabella Avery Thorne on October 8, 1997, in the small Floridian town, Pembroke Pines, "Bella" Thorne began her career as a child model at 6 weeks old and was acting in films by the time she was six.Bella Thorne“I started modeling when I was 6 weeks old, out of the womb, literally. And then I modelled every single day growing up -- my whole life, like, three jobs a day? You name it.”- Bella Thorne on the loose laws of child labourWhile the other children her age were starting the first grade, Bella was on set memorizing her lines despite her not-yet-diagnosed dyslexia. Her playground was a packed soundstage, with busy adults, who were always behind schedule. Studies (conducted by me) show "set" isn't an ideal environment for a child. TBH, sometimes it's so stressful, I'd argue it's not even an ideal environment for an adult. The bedside manner of a key grip? Questionable at best... But in the fast-paced, well-paying, film industry when there are 500 other kids just like you, begging for their shot (who'd take your place in a heartbeat) --you don't ask adults to bend down and tell you what's happening, you source the nearest stepping stool and meet them at eye level. And that's exactly what Bella Thorne did. If she didn't, she wouldn't have made it this far.The multi-talented star performed in a series of commercials, campaigns, and TV shows before landing the (allegedly) career-catapulting role of 'CeCe' on Disney Channel's Shake It Up! in 2010, though Thorne recalls it differently.A Star-Maker or Star-Breaker? Landing Shake It Up!Shake It Up! was a popular Disney Channel sitcom that had a 3-season run (2010-2013), with a costume department that walked so Baz Luhrmann could run.Craig Sjodin / ContributorThe series followed the lives of best friends CeCe Jones (Thorne), and Rocky Blue (Zendaya). Set in Chicago, the show revolved around their adventures as they pursued their dream of becoming professional dancers on the local television show "Shake It Up, Chicago!".But Bella's own life was a far cry from the character she played on screen.Her Father's Sudden Passing Changed EverythingAt 9 years old, Bella Thorne's father Reinaldo "Rey" Thorne was killed in a tragic motorcycle accident leaving Bella and her three older siblings, half-sister Kaili, Dani, and Remy Thorne in the care of their single mother, Tamara.While for many young actors, being a Disney Channel star is the ultimate dream, for Bella Thorne it was anything but.From HBO to Disney ChannelAt 9 years old, Bella Thorne landed what she hoped would be her breakout role. 'Tancy' was a recurring character on HBO's Big Love, but in the wake of her father's death, Bella Thorne had unwittingly become her family's breadwinner. While the HBO role gave Bella Thorne's career the right optics to be considered a "real" actor, the paycheck wasn't enough for Bella to support her family of six. In fact, at the time of landing Shake It Up! Bella's family was facing eviction and living off coupons.As a result, Bella was pushed into auditioning for Disney Channel's new kid's show Shake It Up!In a candid interview with Josh Horowitz on MTV podcast Happy Sad Confused, Bella Thorne calls out that time in her career for what it was:"I didn't want to audition for Shake It Up! I literally said in my audition, 'I don't sing. I don't dance. I'm basically tone deaf, and I'm not funny. So I don't know why I'm here.' And everybody just started laughing. They all thought it was a joke.""We were about to live physically on the street if I didn't have that role. We were living off Stouffer's coupons, and that's all we had to eat every day. That may not sound like a big deal to everybody, but when you're a single mom raising four kids with debt and you have nothing to your name, it's fucking shitty."- Bella Thorne on Happy Sad Confused, 2017After shooting 78 episodes, Bella Thorne parted ways with Disney, in hopes of picking up where she left off. Famously, her co-star Zendaya stayed the course with Disney, renewing her contract and shooting a second series KC-Undercover (2015-18). When Thorne escaped Disney she hit the ground running but struggled to find her footing in the later years as her creative choices lacked a clear trajectory. Conversely, Zendaya, whose choice to continue with Disney Channel did seem as promising at the outset, later sky-rocketed to stardom when she landed the role of MJ in Marvel's Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017). Not-so-coincidentally, The Walt Disney Company acquired Marvel Entertainment in 2009 for $4 billion.Finding Herself After DisneyAfter Shake It Up! wrapped in 2013, Thorne found herself in the midst of a reality that many former Disney Channel stars have experienced. In her pursuit to help her family avoid homelessness, she had been professionally typecast. "It was really hard to get a job after the show. People didn't want to read me. They didn't want to see me because they were like, 'She's a Disney actress.'" Fighting to get past the stereotypes, she found herself effectively at square one. "It was like starting back at the bottom and working my way up all the way again."- Bella ThorneBut it wasn't just the casting offices.Bella Thorne grappled with trying to shed her curated Disney Image, perhaps more notably within her own person.Thorne who is now regarded for her transparency and authenticity, has since spoken out about how her time at Disney deeply affected her individuality---something she champions today.Thorne's transition from TV to Film seemed to get off to a solid start when she soon landed the role of Adam Sandler's oldest daughter in the family rom-com Blended (2014).The Duff / Guy D'AlemaAmong many other projects, the following year she starred as mean-girl 'Madison' in The Duff (2015) and would go on to play the romantic lead in the coming-of-age drama Midnight Sun (2017) opposite Patrick Schwarzenegger. Midnight Sun / Ed AraquelHowever, even though Bella Thorne had escaped the watchful eye of Disney, she still faced pressure to conform to a certain kind of image that agents, studio execs, and the other faceless powers that be, outlined for her.In a documentary released by Vogue titled The Life of Bella Thorne, Thorne broke her silence on how her agents pushed for her to go from 'Disney to comedy to lead love interest comedy to like Rachel McAdams type vibe,' which the Midnight Sun actress eventually kiboshed.'I love Rachel McAdams, but I'm not Rachel McAdams,' she commented. 'I like the darker things. I like the gritty things. I like movies that feel uncomfortable, because that is what life is. - Bella ThorneAs a result, Thorne veered from the plan.Instead of being highly selective with her 'brand' and by extension the projects she chose to put her name to, Bella Thorne became everything, to everyone, all at once.And the risks didn't come without backfire.Where is Bella Now: On Scandals, Successes, and Speaking OutThere's pretty much nothing Bella Thorne hasn't tried once: music, writing, directing, designing, OnlyFans you name it.Content X Campaign / Paige MaccreadyThe OnlyFans ScandalWhen Bella Thorne joined OnlyFans (a subscription-based, adult content website) in 2020, she pocketed $1 million cash and crashed the website. Her instant success prompted her to found her new venture Content X Studios, alongside her manager, Thor Bradwell.Content X markets itself as a "social media influencer agency," though it's not entirely clear what this actually means, or how this manifests materially for their clients. Content X Campaign / Paige MaccreadyThe company has since received ambiguous backlash and their website seems to be a platform that's primary purpose is to redirect visitors to Bella Thorne's other recent projects. Her business ventures include the Thorne Dynasty Jewelry Collection and a poetry collection (which I actually kind of liked), The Life of a Wannabe Mogul: Mental Disarray (2019).At the time of her OnlyFans debut, Thorne received an array of absurd backlash, ranging from the notion she was stealing work from real sex workers who needed the funds (somehow Thorne was f*cking up the algorithm) to the claim that her OnlyFans account should be shut down on the grounds of false advertising (this can't be true, otherwise they'd have to outlaw fake boobs and then no one would be on OF). Essentially the "feminist" community was up in arms because they claimed her $6 subscription was highway robbery and earned subscribers access to glorified Instagram posts*. *To this day, I've never heard a single man bandwagon on the backlash but what do I know?Bella Leaked Her Own Photos: Taking Her Power BackWhoopi Goldberg and Bella Thorne have beef, who knew?After Bella Thorne famously leaked her own nude photos in an attempt to get ahead of the anonymous hacker holding her private photos hostage for ransom, Whoopi Goldberg had a lot to say about it.Whoopi Goldberg, who famously has never had her nudes leaked, took to The View to share her honeyed insights."...if you're famous, I don't care how old you are, you don't take nude pictures of yourself."- Whoopi Goldberg, The View, 2022That means you, King Charles. Do not, I repeat *DO NOT* email semi-clad pics to Camilla Parker Bowles, we will find them and we will release them.In Her Own DefenseIn a vulnerable series of Instagram stories and posts, Bella Thorne shared an emotional video of her speaking up about how deeply affected she was by Goldberg's comments. Bella Thorne was met with overwhelming support by friends and fans alike and took to Instagram to share a few messages she received. The hot topic and 'controversy' around Bella's body and how she uses it, is nothing new, and maybe that's why Bella has so much to say about it.During the Sundance Film Festival (2023) red carpet, Bella refused to sign an overly-sexualized photo of herself, taken when she was underage. In an interview with "The Hollywood Reporter" the following day, Thorne recalled the incident."It's super sexy and my butt is out and I'm wearing lingerie and I'm topless. I said I wouldn't sign that and he took it away and then put it back in front of me again. I said, 'No, I'm not signing that."- Bella Thorne to The Hollywood ReporterThis was not the first time Bella has spoken out on the subject of and defense of her body. Her Body But Not Her ChoiceIn 2022, the former child star disclosed on Emily Ratajowski's podcast High Low With EmRata, she was let go from a project because the director claimed Thorne was "flirting with him and it made him feel uncomfortable." Bella Thorne was 10 years old at the time. Bella Thorne also bravely spoke out about physical and sexual abuse she had horrifically faced from ages six to 14, from a non-disclosed person she grew up with. Which, for the record, she didn't owe anyone. So while it's easy to rip Bella Thorne apart because she's got over 25 million followers and she's good at posting a thirst trap, I won't be doing that, and I won't have time for people who do.Because it's not really just about Bella Thorne.Though the scale varies, in all our own small lives, I'm sure at some point or another, we've all felt totally exposed. We've all felt that we had to justify our 'bad behavior' or over-divulged all our trauma to people who don't actually give a f*ck about the hard times we've been through 'cause they don't plan on being there for the hard times we're going to go through. Who among us, right?Bella Thorne's been put through the wringer, ok. Stay out of her personal life, maybe? Let her direct her next short film, release her next music video, and design her jewelry in peace!It's like people forget that remaining unapologetically yourself is actually really hard. It takes a lot of mental toughness, to not let the bastards get you down, and try to remain un-jaded through it all.Thankfully for Bella, every thorne has its *rose*.The Life of a Wannabe Mogul: Mental DisarrayAn Epilogue: Big Things *fingers crossed* Are ComingIn May of 2023, Bella Thorne got engaged to fiancee Mark Emms after a string of on-and-off relationships. Emms is a British producer who has collaborated with heavy hitters in the industry like John Legend, Stevie Wonder, and Dua Lipa to name a few.As for Thorne, she is shooting her next movie Saint Clare -- a feature film that follows Clare Bleecker, a quiet Catholic college student who has a penchant for killing. Written by American Psycho screenwriter Guinevere Turner and co-starring Ryan Phillippe, the project looks promising and is slated for a 2023 release. Thorne will also appear alongside Aaron Eckhart in Rumble Through the Dark in 2023 and will star in a crime-comedy called, The Trainer, with Paris Hilton. Folks, let's not count out Bella Thorne's happy ending just yet...More "Where Are They Now" Pieces From Goalcast:

Why Ashley Olsen Kept Her Pregnancy A Secret: Looking Back On Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen's Childhood
Motivation

Why Ashley Olsen Kept Her Pregnancy A Secret: Looking Back On Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen's Childhood

Fans were shocked when the news broke on August 14th, 2023 that Ashley Olsen welcomed her first child with husband Louis Eisner because no one knew the former Fullhouse star was even pregnant!The birth announcement originated from VOGUE (long time supporters of the Olsen Sisters). VOGUE detailed Olsen has given birth to son Otto, a few months ago, and had kept the entire thing under wraps---literally. PHOTO: THE IMAGE DIRECTHere is a photo of Ashley Olsen in early 2023 hiding her baby bump pretty fabulously.Olsen is bundled up in one of The Row's signature oversize, black, styles (even the paparazzi didn't suspect a thing)!So, why did the expecting mother skip the public birth announcement favoured by so many A-listers? (see: Katy Perry, Beyoncé)Well, the twin star's own childhood in the spotlight--and their fight to stay out of it in adulthood--may have a little something to do with it...The Adventures of Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen: Growing Up On CameraFrom child stars to fashion icons, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen have accomplished plenty. And it started at an early age. A really early age.In fact, by the time they were 18, they were just about ready to retire. The Gemini Twins (what are the odds) turned 37 years old in June of 2023, and are notorious for keeping their lives as private as possible!If you search: "Mary Kate and Ashley Now," you will find very little information, and the things you do find, will be cryptic accounts of "sources close to the twins". The twins who don't like being called The Olsen Twins, by the way.RON GALELLA /GETTY IMAGESPerhaps this distaste hails from a tired longing, for individuality. The burden surely felt by twins everywhere: the mixed blessing of having "two of you". The double-edged sword of never standing alone in this world--- of never standing on your own in this world. But whatever their ✨ twin powers ✨ may bring, whether it's their secret source of their greatness or a long-withstanding frustration (like how I imagine it would feel to be 7 feet tall, and always have people state the obvious "wow, you're so tall")---it definitely got them noticed!Full House: How Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen Got Their StartsMary-Kate and Ashley Olsen spent the entirety of their formative years, on the set of Full House (1987-95), pretending to exist only one at a time. There was, after all, only one 'Michelle Tanner.' Walt Disney Television / Getty ImagesWhile the show developed a cult following, child stars Mary Kate and Ashley have all but vanished. If you were to check up on Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen now you would quickly realize they took the media hiatus to a whole new level. The sisters do not wield Instagram accounts, send out thoughts under 160 characters, and they definitely don't do choreographed dances to sped-up versions of copyrighted songs. The novelty of being envied probably wears off around the 800th You Got It, Dude laugh track. The desire to be seen too, one would imagine.Twin Recluses? Very Chic.The Olsens are seldom "spotted" these days, and when they do make an appearance--- the tabloids swarm with headlines that always include a rendition of the words "rare outing."Ashley Olsen looking chic at Whole Foods, 2009 / PinterestYet, the disappearance of the Olsen Twins, is not what is confounding...in fact, a fall from the spotlight's grace is almost a certainty in the case of child stars. There has undoubtedly always been a sort of hateful interest in the crash and burn of young performers as they ascend into maturity, particularly young women (save for McCauley Culkin.)There are the obvious, more drastic cases with industry dubbed "child stars"--- a term that in and of itself fuels the false narrative that working 8 hours a day with co-stars 40 years your senior is more fun than hanging out with kids your own age.Child stars like Britney Spears, Amanda Bynes, and Lindsay Lohan: all of whose tempestuous mental health issues (in the wake of stolen childhood) have become easy fodder for low-hitting gossip columns.BackgridThe Olsens Aren't Like The Other Kids However, unlike the Olsen Sisters, these stars entered the public eye, at the ages of 10 years old and up; admittedly more realized individuals than a 6-month-old. While the age gaps are not seemingly vast, the developmental differences that take place in those 9.5 years are astronomical. These aforementioned tween-idols at least had a chance to gain a semblance of their own distinctive personality---though in the famous cases of Britney Spears and her contemporaries, a jagged career trajectory and a public unraveling that followed, attracted a certain kind of press. But this was not the case for the Olsen twins. Despite their intentional, unproblematic, trap-door escape from the spotlight, a kind of muted Beatlemania follows them. Even now, decades later a curiosity in their private life persists. Like the J.D. Salingers of child stars, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen possess an undeniable mystique. The X-Factor of The 'It' GirlUnlike the many celebrities in current culture who feign disdain at the paparazzi they called on themselves---who shirk from the bright flashing lights, running errands in effortless outfits their stylists picked out for them, putting a perfectly manicured hand over their face: please not tonight, guys and a middle finger for good measure so badass !! ---The Olsen Twins are not such unfortunates. Because even when they are, it's somehow just way cooler than the other tryhards.Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner / Splash NewsJustin Bieber and Selena Gomez, 2011 / BillboardFor starters: Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen almost exclusively wear The Row*. *Their fashion-house-in-business-ventures-clothing whose distinctively minimalistic designs are a lesson in quiet luxury---not a far cry from the twins themselves. But before we can really dissect who the Olsen Twins have become we must first look at who they've been, and where they've come from.Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen: Who Were They?Before They Were Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen they were 'Michelle Tanner.'Getty ImagesBecoming Michelle TannerIn 1987, at only 6 months old, the Olsen Twins were cast in the role of Michelle: the youngest Tanner sister on the ABC family sitcom, Full House.Their mother, Jarnette Olsen, was a retired ballerina---a sport and artistic discipline known for the extreme mental and physical demands it makes of the athlete (see: Darren Aronofsky's Black Swan). Perhaps, this self-restraint was genetic, because, at 6 months old, when Jarnette's friend was casting a new ABC Sitcom called (you guessed it) Full House, the twins were the only babies who didn't cry in their "audition" and subsequently landed the role that would change their lives. At 9 months old, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen began filming, alternating who would play the role of Michelle, in order to comply with child labor laws that set strict limits on how long child actors were allowed to work. With both girls on set, ABC was able to shoot up to 16 hours between the two of them, instead of 8 hours they would have been limited to with only one of them.ABC / Getty ImagesA secret the studio seemed intent to keep as, up until the 8th Season, Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen were credited as one actor: "Mary Kate Ashley Olsen." Casting twins is a common practice in Film and TV and was how twins Cole and Dylan Sprouse got their start in Adam Sandler's blockbuster Big Daddy (1999).In fact, the Sprouse twins had such a similar origin story to the Olsen twins the Full House stars took them under their wing. Before signing with Disney, Cole and Dylan Sprouse signed with Mary-Kate and Ashley's entertainment company Dualstar.The Uncanny Valley of SitcomsFor the next 8 years, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen would grow up in an idyllic Victorian home on a picturesque hill in San Francisco with two sisters, two uncles, and an all-american sweetheart dad: a quirky blended family, a full house---almost.VogueIn stark reality, they grew up with their co-workers, on a set with collapsible walls, on a soundstage in Burbank.Then again, maybe the truth is somewhere in between. Long-running sitcoms have always been a staple in TV culture: I Love Lucy, Cheers, Friends, Seinfeld, The Big Bang Theory, Modern Family---everyone has *one* that feels like coming home after a long day, and maybe the truth is, there is only so much faking movie magic can do. Maybe there is an in-between. Perhaps this is the place where the Olsen Twins grew up, in the ambiguous middle. ABC / Getty ImagesIn the same vein of "ironic enjoyment" (if you enjoy something ironically, but it's all you spend your time doing, then eventually it's not ironic it's just a preference), I wonder if that same principle does not apply here. At what point does your TV Dad (Bob Savage) who you spend with more than your real dad, become a father figure? In 1996, after the final season of Fullhouse had aired, Jarnette and Dave Olsen divorced. Sources close to the twins remarked that the proceedings left the four Olsen siblings “pretty shaken and very unhappy."The twins along with older brother James "Trent" Olsen and younger sister Elizabeth, lived with their mother in San Fernando Valley but their father took over the reins of their career transition.The contrast is stark.When your off-screen family is being severed in two, and your on-screen family ends every episode in a group hug, is there a time when you lean in a little more? Is there a moment when it is real? Is there heartbreak when the moment passes? For actress Sarah Hyland (Haley Dunphy on Modern Family), she's already crossed over. The 32-year-old took to Instagram to celebrate "all the dads in [her] life", including Ty Burell (TV Dad, Phil Dunphy) in her Father's Day post:Yet, Hyland's affections are understandable.**and in the strange case of Miley Stewart and Hannah Montana, Miley Cyrus' TV Dad was played by her real-life dad, Billy Ray Cyrus.When you are young (and vulnerable) with a "real job," surrounded by adults, who you spend most of your time with, osmosis undoubtedly occurs. For so many child actors, there is a transference from their 'real life' to their 'work life'.The soundstage becomes a time capsule of "firsts". That isn't always a good thing.A dichotomy between the inner world and the outer world can spring forth. "I would never wish my upbringing on anyone…but I wouldn't take it back for the world."- Mary-Kate OlsenLife After Full HouseThe Twins launched their company Dualstar Entertainment at just 6 years old. Shortly after, Full House aired its final season and Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen embarked on a variety of business ventures masquerading as "kid content" that would skyrocket the pair to unfathomable stardom.Warner Bros / Everett CollectionUnder Dualstar, Mary-Kate and Ashley would solidify their place as teen trendsetters, and perhaps more aptly fashion icons. A moniker the duo earned in the late 90s that even now, as the Phantoms of High Fashion has stuck with them.Their string of successful direct-to-video movies under their "Mary-Kate and Ashley brand", only increased their visibility, acting as a kind of Trojan Horse for their product placement.In the pre-internet age, out-of-home advertising was king, and the Olsen twins had no competitors for the crown. AF Archive / AlamyFrom To Grandmother's House We Go (1992), to It Takes Two, to The Challenge (2003)--the Olsen's co-starred in a staggering total of 50 films, including their TV Series So Little Time (2001). These films followed a similar narrative structure, with Ashley playing the more Type-A twin and Mary-Kate playing her edgy counterpart. Warner Bros / Everett CollectionHowever, their film division was only the beginning. The real revenue-generator of their business was their merchandise.From 6-Month-Old Stand-Ins to 17-Year-Old BillionairesSteve Granitz / WireImageBefore there was Kylie Cosmetics, Rare Beauty, and (for the 2000's kids) Stuff By Duff, there was Mary-Kate and Ashley The Brand.WikipediaFrom cosmetics to furniture---video games, scholastic books, barbie dolls, perfume, and most notably a fashion line at Walmart ---the Olsen's left no precious gemstone unturned.And of course, everything came in two. Mary Kate and Ashley Fragrances / PinterestWhere Mary-Kate was edgy, citrus, and packaged in blue--- Ashley was soft, floral, and packaged in pink. While the 2010s have seen a skyrocket in the establishment of "personal brands" and the monetization of those brands a-la influencers like Gen-Z pack leader Emma Chamberlain (see: Chamberlain Coffee), Makeup Artist Huda Kattan (see: HUDA Beauty), and all of Kris Jenner's Children (see: The Complete List of Kardashian-Jenner's Latest Fashion Ventures), do not be mistaken, Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen did it first and did it best.Dualstar Entertainment GroupIn 2003, Dualstar was estimated to have a net worth of a staggering $1.3 Billion (about $1.9B today with inflation), at a time before internet advertising. Their reach was frankly astounding.At 17 years old, Mary-Kate and Ashley had gone from making $2,400 a Full House episode to selling $1 billion in retail merchandise per year.The X-Factor: What Set Mary Kate and Ashley Apart?When a pair of 6-month-old babies get paid $6,500 (inflation cost) for sitting in a car seat and somehow spin that gig into gold it's hard to accept that maybe it's more than just luck.Maybe, some people, really are just made different. Carlo Allegri / Getty ImagesI'm not sure what the scientific explanation is for what makes an "it" girl.The "it" factor is just that. Glaringly obvious yet impossible to pin down. There are the people who set the trends and the people who follow, and the Olsen twins have always been the former.Internal feminism wants to blame the phenomenon of thin, young, and beautiful women. The pretty privilege that accompanies heroin chic doe-eyes and a Miss America smile.The Olsens have come a long way from the Sequined-Bohemia of the early naughts (Nicole Richie, not so much).Trent McGinn / Harper's BazaarThe Olsen Twins have always been equal parts Kate Moss as they are Disney Princess, only now with a healthy pour of Rick Owens---an eclectic homage that dominates their elusive personas and by extension The Row (their fashion label), in an anti-zeitgeist of the 2020s.The Kardashians or The Hadid Sisters pale in comparison. There is something entirely unforced and cool about the Olsen Sisters. An un-relatability. Contemporary girl-world capitalism is hellbent on monetizing distorted relatability (see: Emily Ratajowski's My Body, Jennifer Lawrence Falling At The Oscars, Bella Hadid's Crying Carousel)The Olsen twins teach a masterclass in never letting you in, on never giving you the crash and burn of their contemporaries, and perhaps most impressively...on maintaining a humble distance from their celebrity successors who traffic in complaining about their public figure privilege. While they were not completely shielded from the rumors and the controversy that comes with "partying" and young celebrity, (see: Mary Kate's secret relationship with Heath Ledger) they were Da Vinci's in the graceful art of the side-step; routinely (and politely) declining to speak publicly about their private affairs. On a press circuit for New York Minute (2004) Oprah Winfrey conducted an interview that did not age well with Oprah prodding the siblings to discuss how their finances were allocated and questioning Mary-Kate about her rumored eating disorder. Where They Have Been: An Anthology of Scandals and SuccessesIn 2004, The Olsens made their theatrical debut with their (now cult-classic) film New York Minute.The film was a higher-budget take on their previous filmography; with Ashley Olsen playing the role of the studious "Jane" and Mary-Kate Olsen playing the role of the carefree "Roxy". The girls ditch a day of school in Long Island in favor of a day of fun in New York City---with their cartoonish principal-slash-villain (Eugene Levy) hot on their trail.New York Minute / Warner Bros.New York Minute / Warner Bros.Despite their massive straight-to-video empire, their previous success failed to translate to the big screen, and so too---the Olsens failed to make the notoriously difficult jump from child stars to "real actors."Though, how dedicated they were to even wanting to make that leap, is up for debate.The Multi-Million Dollar FlopIn its opening weekend, NYM only took in $5.9 million (against a $30 million budget), making it the lowest-grossing wide-released film ever, at the time.Though the Olsen's fan-base may not have been groomed for their theatrical debut (or more likely, not old enough to visit the theatre) the Olsen's exeunt from film seemed premature, taking their history into consideration.Retired at 17NYM was the last time the twins ever starred on-screen together, effectively retiring from acting at only 17 years old. Retrospectively, perhaps there was an underlying exhaustion that went unsaid; a last-ditch attempt at acting shouldered on New York Minute.But the release of the film coincided with perhaps the most pivotal turning point in the twins' careers.The following month, on June 13th, after 17 years of being restricted by legal technicalities and tied-up trusts, Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen were turning 18.The Takeover of DualstarIn June of 2004, The Olsen Sisters entered legal adulthood and were set to attain full control over Dualstar Entertainment Group on their 18th birthday. Their primary challenge as co-CEOs was to ensure Dualstar, along with its Olsen-associated merchandise, evolved alongside their growing demographic. Yet, what did this style evolution really entail? The path forward was not clear-cut. The Olsen Twins had built their brand empire on a selective version of themselves and at 18, they stood at a crossroads. There was, for the first time in their careers (inextricably linked with their very real lives)---free will.After nearly two decades of pandering to a young audience of saccharine tastes, they had the opportunity to become a more fully realized version of themselves. While The Olsens may have been a similar age to their fans, their idiosyncratic and un-relatable life experiences created an entirely different palette. There has always been a hankering to believe that celebrities too live lives, "just like us", and while there are fleeting instances when we catch Kim Kardashian pumping her own gas (brave), we are quickly reminded that Kim Kardashian is also the proud owner of a white, fur wrapped Lamborghini---a car that at the very least, should come with a complimentary Tide to-go stick. BackgridAll this to say, even though the 17-year-old billionaires reportedly had a modest $ 250-month allowance, these cutbacks could only simulate a similarity in common ground with their fans (consumers) for so long.For the Olsens---crossing the threshold of adulthood---the stakes were relatively high. They chose to renew their image from the "Wholesome Olsens" into not necessarily the "wild child" persona oft-touted by child stars set loose, but rather they chose to, for lack of a better term---to keep it real, whatever that meant to them, whenever.They had refined tastes and followed them. Later, they would come to be celebrated for their pursuits too.The Myth of The Child StarThe cold fact is, all child stars face a kind of abuse; vandalism of innocence, a restriction of free will---standing somewhere on the sliding spectrum in between Shirley Temple and The Jonas Brothers. These extreme conditions can create a bipolar reality for the child. A behind-closed-doors narrative. A jump-spring suppression, that shoots kids out of the cannon, landing on their feet in abrupt "wild child" revolt. (See: TMZ, Miley Cyrus Leaked Video: Smoking A Bong, days after her 18th birthday).Disney is synonymous with the ultimate "child star". Signing virgin talent they have scourged from the recesses of bleak Hollywood transplant holes, and burying them under lock-and-key contracts, until they turn the *magic age* of 18. What happens after that, isn't their problem. By the time Demi Lovato landed her first stint in rehab for anorexia, Disney already moved on to Zendaya and Bella Thorne, whose replacement show Shake It Up would usher in a new era of Disney Channel Stars.Disney's hush-hush "morality clause" is the crowning jewel of its star image curation. Among many other restrictions, the talent isn't allowed to swear, drink, smoke, or attract any media attention that isn't totally neutral, if not bland. The reality is, as brilliantly put by Rita Mae Brown, "the reward for conformity is everyone likes you, except yourself". So what can the judgemental world expect from these overexposed, overworked, young adults, who hate themselves? What behavior would be deemed appropriate? What coping mechanism would be acceptable?On the set of The Wizard of Oz, 16-year-old Judy Garland's diet famously consisted of chicken soup, black coffee, and 80 cigarettes a day. 45 years later, these indoctrinated attitudes move behind closed doors.While Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen mothered the trend of walking around New York City with oversized sunglasses, and holding giant Starbucks coffee cups--- the inception of their admitted caffeine addiction, hailed back a decade, with Mary Kate acknowledging she started drinking coffee at the age of 10. In the dubious case of cigarettes, in an interview at 17 years old, the twins dispelled rumors that they smoked."We don't [smoke], but I'm not one to judge"- Mary KateCut To: The 2005 Met Gala Smoking Scandal (Months Later)GC Images"Mary-Kate Olsen was so desperate for a cigarette, she broke New York City's smoking ban by lighting up in the ladies' toilet at the Metropolitan Museum Of Art's Costume Institute Gala on Monday night.Evan Agostini / Getty ImagesA witness says: "Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen get up in the middle of dinner and walk in, and Mary-Kate is saying she wants a cigarette. She then proceeds to chain smoke in the bathroom of the Metropolitan Museum!A spokesperson for the museum was shocked to hear about guests smoking in the prestigious institution: "We don't allow smoking. It's unfortunate that we didn't spot it. There was no security in the bathrooms. I think that's something the museum will have to consider next year."- May 8th 2005, Irish ExaminerWhile this secret history is by no means sinister it's hard to believe on her 18th birthday at the stroke of midnight the pure-lunged princess turned into a chain smoker.And yet, The Olsen twins have a certain magic about them. When Selena Gomez smokes it's "triggering" to her fans, when the Olsen Twins smoke it's celebrated. Do their bad habits inspire headlines like Why Am I So Soothed By Photos of The Olsen Twins Smoking? Beatlemania follows them. They can do no wrong. They cannot miss...perhaps, its because they're not trying to score more points. The 2017 MET Gala went viral for an unconventional reason: All the celebrities broke bad in the girl's bathroom.The internet lost their minds over the bizarre celebrity crossovers that *gave* an alternate universe: Dakota Johnson lighting up on Rita Ora's story! Brie Larson sparks up behind P. Diddy while Paris Jackson leans on ASAP Rocky's shoulders to sneak in Kylie Jenner's Selfie! Rihanna is somewhere in the building! Pandemonium!For one night only all the celebrities corseted in couture (celebrities who historically terrorize talk shows with pick-me tales of how they were bullied in high school) got to feel like the cool kids, hacking darts. But as usual, the Olsen Twins did it first. Because they were the kids smoking behind the school for real, the kids who had the lighter, who you asked to bum a smoke from to try to impress, giving yourself away choking on what's obviously the second drag of your life, because the Olsen's don't put on airs like the other kids. They don't have to.Above all else, trendsetting is perhaps their true vocation. Looking back on their body of work and other business ventures, they were tycoons at selling their taste.In 2005 the duo was slated to attend New York University, in the fall, but soon dropped out.Ultimately, NYU did not prove to be a challenging or pragmatic education for teen business moguls. Sparing no time, they voyaged into the elite world of fashion, with the launch of their luxury line The Row (2005) The RowThe Row began as a self-proclaimed personal challenge. Ashley Olsen was determined to design the perfect T-shirt, with Mary Kate by her side. In the year-and-a-half-long process, the Olsens got a first-hand education in design.“It was learning about production and manufacturing, one piece at a time".- Ashley OlsenThe t-shirt was the founding father of their seven-piece collection that was picked up by fashion industry titan Barney's New York (RIP).Barney's, famous for discovering designers and introducing fashion brands like Rick Ownes, Proenza Schouler, Christian Louboutin, and Comme des Garçons---bought The Row's first complete line, solidifying The Olsen's pedigree as promising fashion designers.The Public Ventures of Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen2006The Olsen became the face of Badgley Mischka with ad campaigns appearing in Vogue, Elle, InStyle, and Vanity Fair.2007 They founded their affordable fashion line Elizabeth and James (named after their siblings James and Elizabeth Olsen) and in the vein of their Wal-Mart collaboration days: designed Olsenboye, a collection for JCPenney 2008 Influence is released. book which features several rare interviews with leading names in the industry like Chanel Designer Karl Lagerfeld and Celebrity Photographer Terry Richardson, as the Olsen's aim to chronicle their influence on fashion.2009At the young age of 23, the Olsen twins were the youngest designers ever invited to join the prestigious Council of Fashion Designers (CFDA).“Welcome to the elite special High Order of Fashion. You are one of us now,"- CFDA president Diane Von Furstenberg, 20092011 They became the creative directors of the 100-year-old European Sneaker Company Superga, spearheading their design collaborations.But as their achievements piled up, and their credibility as real designers became consecrated, the twins faded out, no longer needing to stand alongside their work like primed showgirls, in order to earn publicity, visibility, and respect."We didn’t want to be in front of it, we didn’t necessarily even want to let people know it was us. It was really about the product, to the point where we were like: Who could we get to front this so that we don’t have to?” - Ashley Olsen on The RowAs The Row evolved from a glorified t-shirt company into a luxury fashion house, a dual-evolution occurred: a maturity in both the art and the artists.Their designs spoke for themselves and they spoke through their designs. The Row became a divine mouthpiece. The trumpet for a one-way conversation, a healing improvisation, to atone for a childhood recited. Stephen Lovekin / Getty ImagesIn a masterful, subtle, exeunt from superfluous red carpet appearances and ever-invasive interviews, Mary Kate and Ashley relegated themselves to the ranks of High Fashion's Willy Wonka; pulling the strings masterfully, away from the world, inside the sacred confines, of their unpolluted chocolate factory. A paradise found---this was The Row. “We just wanted to function more behind the scenes.”- Ashley OlsenPerhaps they saw the technological tidal wave coming, the mass exodus from tangible art, the personal spotlights that would in the next decade--- crop up all over the world in squares, on iPhones, in covetous hands doom-scrolling to be influenced---they have always had a genius to see what's coming, though their strange luck perhaps never made it necessary.In 2021, in the wake of a worldwide pandemic, The Row---a niche, luxury, minimalist, womenswear line--- was turning around $100 million in profit.The world felt done for. Hell was freezing over twice--and apparently for fashion aficionado's everywhere, there's no better time to buy a $6,000 cashmere coat to keep you warm.Where They Are Now: The Romantic Lives of Mary Kate and Ashley OlsenIf you're looking for Ashley Olsen, you can find her in the woods, doubling fisting wine and a machete.@knuckles.eisner / instagramIn a rare first-hand peek into their personal lives as photographed by her husband, artist Louis Eisner, the internet was electrified by Ashley Olsen's forever, cool. The "story" was picked up by several prominent publications, doubling down on her cult-celebrity status. Confirming that yes, Ashley Olsen can blow her nose with a handkerchief and Kleenex would see their stock plummet. Eisner's posting of Olsen resulted in a resurgence of tabloid-driven deep dives into the pair's relationship. The researched origin story was entirely speculative, with journalists guessing the couple got together around 2017. In the 6 years since the pair have only had a handful of public appearances.As of August of 2023, the parents welcomed their son Otto to their (growing?) family! At 37 years old, you can find Mary-Kate in Zoom Divorce Court.In 2020, Mary-Kate Olsen dissolved her then-9-year relationship with her husband Olivier Sarkozy*.*French-Banker-slash-half-brother-of-former-President-of-France-Nicolas SarkozyMary-Kate Olsen and Olivier Sarkozy’s divorce hearing via court ZoomThe news of their not-so-conscious uncoupling came as the pandemic shut down the world that spring.Olsen filed for divorce while Sarkovsky moved his ex-wife into their shared home in Bridgehampton, New York. At the same time, Sarkovsky declined to renew the lease on their $29,000 p/ month Gramercy apartment rental, where Olsen was living at the time.While her initial petition for an emergency settlement had been declined by a New York Judge, in 2021 Olsen ended her marriage with the click of an "end call" button.It was a breakneck end to a relationship that received mixed (albeit uninvited) reviews from its outset. Between the couple's 18-year age difference and 1.1-foot height difference, these ambiguously colored flags sparked speculation.However, the hallmark of Mary-Kate's relationship, true to form, was the swank with which she got hitched. In a ceremony that has otherwise zero coverage*, it was confirmed guests were greeted by a bowl of cigarettes at Mary-Kate's wedding, the story was picked up by Vanity Fair. Twice. *Not a single photo of the ceremony floats around the internet, as all guests were required to turn in their phones for the private event, leaving us all to forever speculate just how iconic her bridal look certainly was.Any other insight into the Olsen's private lives is often subject to scrutiny from ultra-zoomed-in iPhone candids and other forms of eerily aesthetic paparazzi that has become their calling card.TheImageDirect.comWhen this photo surfaced of the twins celebrating their 33rd birthday, the simple, dollar-store, "Birthday Girl" headband was mass-reproduced by retailers and sold out on Amazon shortly after.Where Do We Go From Here?The truth is Olsen's hail from a time of Pop Culture Americana long gone, but hopefully not dead. We are undoubtedly in the era of Nepo-Babies. A buzzword that while exhausted, is far more exhausting because of just how true and founded it is. The Idol: A Case StudyThe Idol is HBO's latest display, of how ironic it is, to make a sincere statement that is more parts trite than radical. As "Jocelyn"---The Idol's empty take on Britney Spears---Lily Rose Depp sways more than she acts; never having less than 87% of her body exposed, relying on sanpaku eyes to sell the fun in bored sex and cocaine-fuelled exploits. It's all a lot of nothing from Johnny Depp's daughter in collaboration with HBO (which is slowly becoming the Ottoman Empire of TV Networks).As a case study, The Idol fails not because of what it is trying to say: that it's hard to be a child star (which, in short, is the same thing I've been saying this whole f*cking article), but because of who it's using to say it.As Game of Thrones has demonstrated, gratuitous sex scenes don't get shows canceled, but a wimpy story trajectory does. What makes the case of Britney Spears, Amanda Bynes, and Lindsay Lohan heartbreaking, is the same thing that makes Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen's triumphant.Perhaps in this life, you're either the star or the critic, and perhaps it is fated that the grass will forever look greener on the other side. In a way, we are all shacked up in our own versions of Victorian houses on San Francisco hillsides---only there are no cameras rolling. Our first kisses aren't scripted, we don't have a "wardrobe" picking out the clothes we'll wear for the years to come, and the bedroom walls we grew up with don't come down at curtain. For all intents and purposes, the case of Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen is the antithesis of crash and burn, in its own way it's miraculous, and maybe this is why over three decades later, still afloat on a life raft of their own making, they continue to cull such intrigue. Like the cunning critics we are, somewhere in our bones, we know they dodged a billion bullets---that "behind the scenes" is a euphemism for the sinister nature of the burden of the dream, that the Amanda Bynes' of the world make all too much sense and in reality, The Olsen's are the true outliers.How did they manage? I have 10,000 theories, but if I had to pick just one, I'd venture it's glaringly obvious.Bruce Weber / VogueThe thing that condemned them is the same that saved them: because there were two of them.MORE "WHAT HAPPENED TO" FROM GOALCAST:

The Complete Guide To The Alumni of Grey's Anatomy: What Happened and Where Are They Now?
Motivation

The Complete Guide To The Alumni of Grey's Anatomy: What Happened and Where Are They Now?

Where 👏 Are 👏 They 👏 Now 👏: The Complete Guide to every single Grey's Anatomy alum who pissed off Shonda Rhimes and got CUT from the longest-running prime-time medical drama of all time!!! (Kidding)((but not really))I want you to know there are so many *spoilers* in here and yet this show has so 👏 much 👏 drama you won't even remember the spoilers by the time you're done!Half gossip column/half unofficial Grey's Anatomy encyclopedia *THIS ARTICLE* explores all the on-screen and behind-the-scenes Grey's Anatomy drama.We take a look at some of the most beloved Grey's Anatomy characters (Cristina Yang) and some not-so-beloved (Preston Burke); what happened to them and where are they now?And we're warning you, it's in-depth. If you want to jump to one of your favorite characters or actorsDenny Duquette - (Jeffrey Dean Morgan)Preston Burke - (Isaiah Washington)Dr. Addison Montgomery (Kate Walsh)Dr. George O'Malley (T.R. Knight)Dr. Izzie Stevens (Katherine Heigel)Dr. Lexie Grey (Chyler Leigh)Dr. Mark Sloane (Eric Dane)Dr. Cristina Yang (Sandra Oh)Dr. Derek Shepherd (Patrick Dempsey)Dr. Callie Torres (Sara Ramirez)Dr. Stephanie Edwards (Jerrika Hinton)Dr. April Kepner (Sarah Drew)Dr. Arizona Robbins (Jessica Capshaw)Dr. Alex Karev (Justin Chambers)Dr. Maggie Pierce (Kelly McCreary)Dr. Andrew DeLuca (Giacomo Gianniotti)Dr. Nathan Riggs (Martin Henderson)Denny Duquette (Jeffrey Dean Morgan)PinterestActive: Season 1-2 Who Was Denny Duquette?Denny Duquette was one of the best characters on the show, you hear me?Denny was a dying patient at Seattle Grace Hospital (back when it was called Seattle Grace Hospital*)*I SWEAR Shonda Rhims' favorite past time is re-naming this hospital (over 19 seasons it's called: 1). Seattle Grace Hospital 2). Seattle Grace Mercy West 3). Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital.Denny Duquette is hot and cool and charming and rich (classic) and he falls in love with surgical intern Dr. Izzie Stevens (swoon)! 🫶 Except Denny is, y'know, DYING (boo).Like big time. He needs a heart transplant (not easy to come by), but his main storyline is that he's falling in love with Izzie while he's waiting for a heart.*Everything I know about cutting LVAD wires I learned from this show*.How Was Denny Duquette Written Off?Denny's death story is the first time Shonda literally PLAYS with our hearts!* Bless our hearts * it was season 2 and we were so naive! We didn't know then that Shonda's like the George R.R. Martin of killing off characters.Denny finally gets a heart!!!?? And then literally dies. After it's been put inside him!!WTF SHONDA!!*No no no, I actually can't even do this right now*.I just saw this image:American Broadcasting CompanyAND IT TOOK ME BACK!! Omg and 🥺 Dr. Alex Karev 🥺 (who totally does love Izzie even though she loves Denny) !!! 💔 Heartbreak-O-Meter: 110/100 🌡️Since Leaving Grey's Anatomy: Where is Jeffrey Dean Morgan Now?Since leaving Grey's Anatomy, Jeffrey Dean Morgan *not to be confused with Javier Bardem* BECAUSE THEY LOOK EXACTLY THE SAME??! THESE ARE TWO DIFFERENT MEN!!Twin Strangers WHO IS WHO TELL ME RIGHT NOW!While Javier Bardem was doing other shit, Jeffery Dean Morgan starred in Watchmen and Spielberg'sThe Post---Jeffrey Dean Morgan's main thing is he stars in (and hasn't been killed off) the WALKING DEAD!Jeffrey Dean Morgan is *also* married to Hilarie Burton of One Tree Hill Fame. The teen drama starring Chad Michael Murray who still has me blocked on Instagram. Getty ImagesLook at them! A Network-TV-Couple Match Made in Heaven 🌤️ (right behind Blair Waldorf and Seth Cohen)Dr. Preston Burke (Isaiah Washington)ABCActive: Seasons 1-3 Status: Dead to Shonda Rhimes Who Was Dr. Preston Burke?Dr. Preston Burke was a Grey's Anatomy O.G!He came onto the scene in Season 1, as the Cardiothoracic Surgeon with no bedside manner and a big ego BUT of course, deep down he had a good heart.Dr. Burke was known for his exceptional surgical skills, dedication to his craft, and his demanding nature. He had an INSANE relationship with Grey's Anatomy Dr. Cristina Yang (Queen) which ended in MARRIAGE and then eventually divorce! (Yang cannot be tamed).How Was Dr. Preston Burke Written Off?👏 HE LEFT HIS FIANCEE AT THE ALTER !! 👏Yes, you read that right!But the reason for Dr. Preston Burke's abrupt departure is even MORE WILD💔 Heartbreak-O-Meter: 45/100 🌡️*THE TEA*Shonda Rhimes cut Isaiah Washington's character with no warning for the actor after a *controversial* behind-the-scenes incident.According to Shonda Rhimes and The Grey's Anatomy Family: Washington used homophobic slurs on set. The Story According to Harry Werksman (Former Screenwriter on Grey's Anatomy):Isaiah Washington and Patrick Dempsey (Derek Shepherd) were big dogging each other one day on set. Washington confronted Dempsey because he "felt disrespected that he and the crew had been waiting." Dempsey told Washington came to the set late in order "to pay back Isaiah" for arriving late to set on an earlier shooting dayThen it got physical!Allegedly, Washington pushed Dempsey and said he couldn't "talk to [him] the way you talk to" Knight, whom he referred to using the homophobic slur.Katherine Heigl and others on set broke up the fight, but the damage was done.The fight was leaked to the media and affected T.R. Knight on a personal levelKnight wasn't "out" before the slur (apparently he didn't even really know he was gay) and was forced to come out to his family and the press.Since the incident, Isaiah has maintained his slurs weren't directed at anyone in particular.ABCBut Shonda Rhimes didn't give a f**k. She fired his ass without notice and wrote his character off the show, off-screen.Dr. Preston Burke's story ends with him abruptly leaving Cristina Yang at the altar and resigning from Seattle Grace Hospital.Since Leaving Grey's Anatomy: Where is Isaiah Washington Now?Getty ImagesSince leaving Grey's Anatomy, Isaiah Washington has continued his acting career, playing Thelonious Jaha in the sci-fi series The 100 and currently starring in CW's All American as Coach Montes.Isaiah Washington has also been involved in activism and humanitarian efforts. He has worked with organizations focused on issues such as human rights, education, and healthcare.Dr. Addison Montgomery (Kate Walsh)Karen Neal/Disney General Entertainment Active: Seasons 1-8 and 18-19Who Was Dr. Addison Montgomery?She's Dr. Derek Shepherd's ex-wife!!!She's also a world-renowned OBGYN but who really cares, we all know we watch Grey's for the love triangles.Dr. Montgomery busts into Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital to win Derek back but then it's this whole thing because Meredith didn't know Shepherd was married and then she's all "you're cheating on your wife with me!!", "I don't want to be with you anymore Derek" (but secretly she does) and then suddenly Meredith's all "pick me, choose me, love me" (and coins my fave TikTok trend)^ which TWIST MY ARM I'LL ADMIT IT! I AM A PICK-ME GIRL! [*I totally drunk texted a dude once who unfortunately actually was in medical school...and had just started watching Grey's Anatomy because I got him onto it..so like he had like JUST SEEN the "pick me girl" episode...so he texted me back being like ...is that from Grey's Anatomy? and then all I could do was be like ...no... And then order McDonald's, fall asleep before it arrived, and try not to KMS in the morning.*]Spoiler Alert: We are not together, and I am an alcoholic!How Was Dr. Addison Montgomery Written Off?We ended up loving Dr. Addison Montgomery because we find out that even though she did cheat on Derek with his best friend, she also did have a miscarriage. And felt like Derek secretly hated her (which, low key he kinda did).Shonda Rhimes obviously loved Addison's character (or maybe just was a big Kate Walsh fan) because while the 4-Time Emmy Nominated showrunner wrote Addison off Grey's Anatomy, but wrote her on to her very own spin-off series Private Practice.Set in sunny Los Angles, Private Practice centers on Addison's new life and career, after escaping the Toxic Meredith/Derek Love Triangle.Basically, Addison becomes the *New Meredith Grey* of her own show!💔 Heartbreak-O-Meter: N/A 🌡️Since "Leaving" Grey's Anatomy: Where is Kate Walsh Now?DAMN IT! I just told you!!Private Practice! Duh! The show aired from 2007-2013 with a solid six-season run, but that's not all Kate's done since.Arguably, Kate Walsh is one of the more successful actors outside The Grey's Anatomy Universe (Private Practice and Station 19 are two-spinoffs)Walsh starred as the lead in network comedy Bad Judge (2015) portraying Rebecca Wright who's like a cross between Judge Judy and Courtney Love.Walsh's TV career continued to hold up in court, also worked on some other respectable TV series like Fargo, 13 Reasons Why, Umbrella Academy as well as the feature film Girls Trip.Getty ImagesIn addition to her acting career, Kate Walsh is also an activist and philanthropist. She's worked closely with organizations like Much Love Animal Rescue, Operation Smile, and UNICEF.Dr. George O'Malley (T.R. Knight)PinterestActive: Seasons 1-6Who Was George O'Malley'?Okay, Grey's Anatomy fans really were obsessed with George even though personally I never understood it...His crush on Meredith was honestly annoying, but fans seem to think this short king was loyal and lovable.For the record, I think he was a simp.At one point he gets romantic with Izzie and then unrelated, enlists in the military?How Was George O'Malley Written Off?This was definitely a Top 5 Grey's Anatomy Death!George O'Malley is a patient in Grey's after getting in a fatal accident while saving a stranger's life. Except, his injuries are so severe, his colleagues at Grey Sloan initially don't recognize him due to the extent of his trauma.Meredith figures it out too late, when George, who can't speak due to his injuries, signs "007" (a nickname he earned in Season 1).💔 Heartbreak-O-Meter: 95/100 🌡️ (not for me but for everyone else)Since Leaving Grey's Anatomy: Where is T.R. Knight Now?Since leaving Grey's Anatomy, T.R. Knight has had a recurring role in the legal drama The Good Wife and starred in a handful of theatre productions.IMDBDr. Isobel "Izzie" Stevens (Katherine Heigl)SCOTT GARFIELD/WALT DISNEY TELEVISION / GETTY IMAGESWho was Dr. Izzie Stevens?Dr. Izzie Stevens was another Grey's Anatomy Season 1 OG.Yes, Izzie dated half the show (Dr. Karev, Dr. O'Malley, Denny Duquette) but we honestly love her for it.She fought for her patients and often went above and beyond for them---like the time she MARRIED one??How Was Dr. Izzie Stevens Written Off?Dr. Izzie Steven's story ends with her randomly just "resigning" from Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital.If that sounds suspicious...it's cause it is!!! 👏 OH YOU KNOW THERE IS TEA HERE 👏 👏 ISAIAH WASHINGTON 2.0 👏*THE TEA*Katherine Heigl and Shonda Rhimes had 🥩 BEEF 🥩While she was on Grey's, Katherine Heigl was popping off and understandably wanted to leave the show.Heigl was the breakout start from Grey's Anatomy. After landing the life-changing role in 2005, Heigel starred in blockbuster after blockbuster filming in between her demanding Grey's schedule: Knocked Up, 27 Dresses, The Ugly Truth, Killers, and Life As We Know It.The controversy kicked off when Katherine Heigl withdrew herself from the Emmy Consideration."I did not feel that I was given the material this season to warrant an Emmy nomination, to maintain the integrity of the academy organization, I withdrew my name from contention." -Katherine Heigl's StatementAllegedly, Shonda Rhimes and the other Grey's Anatomy producers took offense to Heigl's statement and wrote her off the show.Heigl has since broken her silence on her controversial Emmy's deferral and the Grey's Anatomy culture in 2023 on Howard Stern's show. Izzie leaves Seattle Grace to undergo cancer off-screen and eventually resigns as a surgical resident.Similar to Dr. Preston Burke's storyline, Dr. Izzie Steven's departure was not shown on-screen, and her character's story was left open-ended.💔 Heartbreak-O-Meter: 80/100 🌡️Since Leaving Grey's Anatomy: Where is Katherine Heigl Now?Since leaving Grey's Anatomy, Katherine Heigl has been on the receiving end of some industry backlash!! And unfortunately, her career trajectory suffered as a result.The actress earned herself a bad rap around Hollywood and has spoken numerous times about how she thinks this character assessment is unfair.Despite her "diva reputation", Katherine Heigl managed to maintain a pretty solid career in film---which is notoriously a hard transition for TV actors to make.She's since starred in New Year's Eve, One For The Money, Suits, and Netflix's Firefly Lane.SANTIAGO FELIPE/GETTY IMAGESRecently Katherine Heigel reunited with former co-star and Grey's Anatomy protagonist Ellen Pompeo for Variety. The Grey's Anatomy alums discussed the early days of the show and the controversy around Heigl's exit.But it wasn't all bad on Grey's---thankfully Heigl met her husband country singer Josh Kelley, after her Grey's fame earned her the role of starring in his 2005 music video. The pair tied the knot in 2007 and have been together ever since!Dr. Lexie Grey (Chyler Leigh) IMDBActive: Seasons 3-8Who Was Dr. Lexie Grey?If the surname didn't give it away, Lexie was Dr. Meredith Grey's half-sister!!*GASP* When Dr. Lexie Grey began working at Seattle Grace Hospital, she didn't tell anyone she had the same father as Meredith Grey---not even Meredith!However when her secret was revealed Meredith and Lexie developed a deep and meaningful relationship which made the character's departure all the more heartbreaking.How Was Dr. Lexie Grey Written Off?THE PLANE CRASH EPISODE changed EVERYTHING in Grey's Anatomy.The Season Eight Finale rocked fans as half of the core Grey's Anatomy cast ended up in a plane crash, stranded in the wilderness.Lexie, trapped under the debris, says goodbye to Meredith and dies in Mark Sloan's arms (her on-again/off-again lover + hottest doctor on the show).💔 Heartbreak-O-Meter: 90/100 🌡️Since Leaving Grey's Anatomy: Where is Chyler Leigh Now?After leaving Grey's Anatomy, Chyler Leigh landed the role of Alex Danvers in the superhero TV series Supergirl. The role gained Leigh pretty significant recognition from the dedicated superhero fan base.It's worth noting that after her departure from Grey's Anatomy, Chyler Leigh took a break from acting to focus on her personal life and mental health. She has been open about her struggles with bipolar disorder and has since become an advocate for mental health awareness.PHILLIP CHIN/GETTY IMAGESDr. Mark Sloan "McSteamy" (Eric Dane)GLOBAL LOOK PRESSActive: Seasons 2-9Who Was Dr. Mark Sloan?Dr. Mark Sloan AKA "McSteamy," was introduced in the second season of the show as a 🔥 HOT plastic surgeon 🔥 and a former best friend of Dr. Derek Shepherd.*Former* because Dr. Mark Sloan slept with Addison AKA Derek's Wife back when they all lived in NEW YORK! Dr. Mark Sloan has a charismatic surgeon/playboy reputation---and dates everyone on the show -- AS HE SHOULD! Including Addison Montgomery, Lexie Grey, Callie Torres, and ALL OF DEREK'S SISTERS! 🥵 Good for him.How Was Dr. Mark Sloan Written Off?This is a Top 5 Grey's Anatomy Death!Following the aftermath of THE PLANE CRASH EPISODE, Dr. Mark Sloan was severely injured and was in a COMA at Seattle Grace Hospital.Mark Sloan dies (MURDERED BY SHONDA RHIMES) but obviously, she liked these characters because they were good deaths. Very Emotional!Right before he dies, Mark has made good on his playboy reputation. As a reformed man, admitted he was in love with Lexie and become best friends with Derek again 😩💔 Heartbreak-O-Meter: 99/100 🌡️Since Leaving Grey's Anatomy: Where is Eric Dane Now?Since leaving Grey's Anatomy, Eric Dane has continued his career in TV starring in: The Last Ship, Grey Lady, The Fix, and HBO's Euphoria.Eric Dane's performance as lead Tom Chandler in The Last Ship earned him critical acclaim and solidified his spot as a leading actor in television. However, it may be his supporting role as *certified creep* in HBO's Euphoria that will give Eric Dane's career just the kick it needs. HBO is notorious for its bottle rocket casting---giving actors the industry recognition/credibility they need to take their careers to the next level.Eric Dane has 4 upcoming feature films this year: Bad Boys 4, One Fast Move, Dangerous Waters, and Borderline. RICK KERN/GETTY IMAGESWhat does this mean?I think Eric Dane's about to pop off!GOAT Dr. Cristina Yang (Sandra Oh)Kelsey McNeal / American Broadcasting CompaniesActive: Seasons 1-10Who Was Dr.Cristina?Sandra Oh IS Grey's Anatomy.In fact, they should have called it Yang's Anatomy, ok??You could cut the whole Grey's Anatomy cast except Yang and we'd all still be down.Everyone knows: Cristina Yang is the character we all want to be.If Meredith Grey is 'the Carrie Bradshaw' (yawn) Cristina Yang is 'the Samantha Jones'!**And if you think that Sex and The City reference came out of nowhere, think again! When Shonda Rhimes pitched Grey's Anatomy, she solid executives on the idea by framing the 19-season-series as Sex and The City in a hospital**Dr. Cristina Yang is an ambitious, highly skilled, and fiercely competitive cardiothoracic surgeon. She's also Meredith Grey's best friend (shout out to the "twisted sisters").Cristina Yang dates two doctors she's superior to; Dr. Preston Burke and Dr. Owen Hunt, before realizing, she doesn't need a man, and she's actually just better than all of them.Sandra Oh received several Primetime Emmy nominations, for her performance as Cristina Yang. How Was Dr. Cristina Yang Written Off?This is a Top 5 Grey's Anatomy Death!We know Shonda Rhimes loves her some Cristina Yang.In the tenth season of the show, Cristina is offered a position at The Klausman Institute in Zurich, Switzerland, under the mentorship of her former flame Dr. Preston Burke.Because Yang is the GOAT, she pursues the opportunity.Cristina Yang's last episode IS ALL HEART. Her last scenes with her best friend Meredith Grey are a beautiful end to *one of TV's best female friendships*.The episode ends with her final scene. Cristina stands on the tarmac, ready to board a plane to Zurich, and it cuts to her giving Meredith one last piece of advice in THE MOST ICONIC LINE OF GREY'S ANATOMY: "He's not the sun. You are."It's the best line Shonda Rhimes ever written. Dr. Yang's absence has been acknowledged in subsequent seasons, with occasional references to her and updates on her life. However, Cristina has not made a physical return to the show since her departure.💔 Heartbreak-O-Meter: 99/100 🌡️Since Leaving Grey's Anatomy: Where is Sandra Oh Now?Jeff Kravitz/Getty ImagesSince leaving Grey's Anatomy, Sandra Oh has, respectfully, KILLED it.Out of everyone to leave Grey's Anatomy, Sandra's done the best for herself. Oh's most notable role is in the widely successful TV Drama Killing Eve where she plays the title character Eve Polastri alongside Jodie Comer.In 2019, Sandra Oh took home the Golden Globe for Best Supporting in A Series, Mini Series, or Television Film.Similar to her former co-star Eric Dane, Sandra Oh has 4 upcoming projects slated for this year: The Sympathizer, The Tiger's Apprentice, Invincible, and The Untitled Sister Comedy Project.Dr. Derek Shepherd (Patrick Dempsey)Craig Sjodin/ABCActive: Seasons 1- 11Who Was Dr. Derek Shepherd?Okayyyy LFG. WE MADE IT HEREDr. Derek Shepherd!!Dr. Derek Shepherd AKA "McDreamy," was a HUGE CHARACTER on Grey's Anatomy.We meet Derek in the first scene of the show, getting kicked out of Meredith Grey's house after a 🔥 slutty evening 🔥We think he's a one-night stand BUT THINK AGAIN!On Meredith's first day as a surgical intern, she realizes Dr. Derek Shepherd is the head of neurosurgery at Seattle Grace Hospital.AKA Meredith Grey, slept with her boss!Dr. Derek Shepherd and Meredith Grey's on-again, off-again relationship is filled with ups and downs and is probably the most central storyline of Grey's Anatomy.*Don't get it twisted though* Derek is a good guy!He's a compassionate and respected doctor who cared deeply for his patients and is a mentor to the other, younger, doctors.How Was Dr. Derek Shepherd Written Off?Okay, so this one is crazy.Derek gets in a car accident and is (obviously) brought to a hospital...but here's the catch: he's not brought to Sloan Grey Memorial Hospital.The ambulance takes him to this tiny hospital, with incompetent doctors, and as the story tragically goes, due to a series of complications and medical negligence, Derek dies from a fatal brain injury. This obviously sends Meredith over the edge, but of course, the question is...WHY would Shonda Rhimes kill off her second biggest character??💔 Heartbreak-O-Meter: 100/100 🌡️*THE TEA*THERE WERE REPORTS OF TENSIONS between Shonda Rhimes and Patrick Dempsey. In interviews, Shonda Rhimes claimed the choice to write off Patrick Dempsey's character, Dr. Derek Shepherd, was a "creative choice" for the medical drama. However, we're all pretty sure she's LYING!Once again we turn to the Lynette Rice (Entertainment Journalist's) New York Best Seller, How to Save a Life: The Inside Story of Grey's Anatomy! The unauthorized tell all claims:“There were [Human Resources] issues… sort of terrorizing the set… He had this hold on the set where he knew he could stop production and scare people.” If Dempsey had complaints about scheduling or the way scenes were shot, production had to pause to hear him out. While that should be a common practice on tv and film sets, former executive producers allege that Dempsey’s disruptions were simply because he felt like he was “done” with the show at that point. Parriott further explained that meetings with the network, studio, and actors were held to discuss Dempsey and that he “didn’t like the inconvenience of coming in every day and working.- Grey's Anatomy Producers: James D. Parriott and Jeannine Renshaw*THE PIPING HOT TEA*BUT EVEN THAT MAY BE A COVER!!RUMOURS SAID PATRICK DEMPSEY WAS ALLEGEDLY FIRED FROM THE SHOW FOR HAVING AN AFFAIR WITH AN INTERN, AND SOCIAL JUSTICE WARRIOR SHONDA RHIMES WAS LIKE "NOT IN MY HOUSE!!!"AND MURDERED HIM!You will not cheat on your wife ON SHONDA RHIMES' WATCH.Since Leaving Grey's Anatomy: Where is Patrick Dempsey Now?Walt Disney Company/Getty ImagesSince leaving Grey's Anatomy, Patrick Dempsey has been involved in a few projects like feature films: Bridget Jones's Baby and Enchanted 2.Patrick Dempsey's acting career trajectory didn't exactly hit skyward after leaving Grey's Anatomy BUT the actor is very involved with motorsports. He's participated in various racing events and is a co-owner of Dempsey-Proton Racing (a motorsport team that has competed in endurance racing), including the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans.Dempsey has also been active in philanthropy and advocacy, particularly in the field of cancer research and support. He founded the Dempsey Center, a nonprofit organization that provides support services to individuals and families impacted by cancer.So...I'm thinking he saved a pretty penny from 11 seasons and probably has a pretty good investment portfolio because founding a non-profit and owning a motorsports team ain't cheap!! 💸Dr. Callie Torres (Sara Ramirez)ABC/Getty ImagesActive: Seasons 2-12Who Was Dr. Callie Torres?Dr. Callie Torres is an Orthopedic Surgical resident at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital who randomly dates Dr. George O'Malley for a hot minute and then marries Dr. Arizona Robbins (a better match). How Was Dr. Callie Torres Written Off?Dr. Callie Torres made her final appearance on Grey's Anatomy in the twelfth season, when she decides to leave Seattle and move to New York City with her daughter Sofia. There were mixed reactions on Dr. Torres' exeunt from the show because at this point she's effectively f*cked Dr. Arizona Robbins (who was a fan-favorite).She amputates Dr. Robbins' leg (THE PLANE CRASH EPISODE STRIKES AGAIN), divorces Dr. Robbins (the aforementioned missing leg made Robbins a wee bit sour at home) and then TAKES THEIR KID SOFIA TO NEW YORK, on the technical grounds that Sofia is not actually Arizona's kid and is the result of glorified sperm donor *Mark Sloan*That being said, I still f*ck with Torres.💔 Heartbreak-O-Meter: 75/100 🌡️Since Leaving Grey's Anatomy: Where is Sara Ramirez Now?Dia Dipasupil/Getty ImagesSince leaving Grey's Anatomy, Sara Ramirez has GONE FOR IT!The Tony-Winning Actress joined the cast of the political series Madam Secretary and stars in HBO's Sex and The City Reboot: And Just Like That..., as podcast hots Che Diaz.The outspoken LGBTQ+ Activist also released her debut EP, "Sara Ramirez" (2011). When she is not performing she continues to advocate for various social justice issues, speaking out on topics like immigration reform, reproductive rights, and racial justice.Dr. Stephanie Edwards (Jerrika Hinton)Getty ImagesActive: Seasons 9-13Who Was Dr. Stephanie Edwards?Dr. Stephanie Edwards is a surgical resident at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital and the show tried to pitch her as the new Cristina Yang but it didn't really land.Stephanie develops mentor-student relationships with attending physicians, including Dr. Richard Webber and Dr. Miranda Bailey.Dr. Stephanie Edward's *main* romantic relationship is with Dr. Jackson Avery (Jesse Williams), but I could never get behind this cause I was a *Japril Shipper*How Was Dr. Stephanie Edwards Written Off?Dr. Stephanie Edwards essentially gets PTSD after an injury during a fire at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital. In recovery, Dr. Stephanie Edwards decides to leave the medical field entirely and pursue a different passion.💔 Heartbreak-O-Meter: 45/100 🌡️Since Leaving Grey's Anatomy: Where is Jerrika Hinton Now?@hellojerrika/instagramSince leaving Grey's Anatomy, Jerrika Hinton joined the cast of HBO drama series Here and Now, Amazon Prime's Hunters, and Love, Victor (a TV spin-off of the LGBTQ+ romance Love, Simon)Dr. Arizona Robbins (Jessica Capshaw)PinterestActive: Seasons 5-14Who Was Dr. Arizona Robbins?Dr. Arizona Robbins is a Pediatric Surgeon known for her cheerful and upbeat personality.That is until her leg gets amputated by her soon-to-be ex-wife Callie Torres.Losing her leg brings up some suppressed sh*t for Dr. Robbins and needless to say, she's not all that cheerful in Season 9!Notably, Dr. Arizona Robbin's work relationship with Alex Karev is a favorite of Grey's Anatomy fans!How Was Dr. Arizona Robbins Written Off?Dr. Arizona Robbins leaves Grey's Anatomy in the show's 14th season. TDr. Robbins accepts a job offer in New York City, to be closer to her daughter Sofia, who is living with her ex-wife, Dr. Callie Torres, in New York.💔 Heartbreak-O-Meter: 80/100 🌡️Since Leaving Grey's Anatomy: Jessica Capshaw Then and Now?Rich Fury/Getty ImagesSince leaving Grey's Anatomy, Jessica Capshaw starred in Netflix Romantic Comedy Holidate. Capshaw plays Emma Robert's older sister. She made several guest appearances in TV shows like The Rookie and MacGyver.Acting-wise, Jessica Capshaw hasn't exactly shot out of the Grey's Anatomy cannon, though it seemed her departure was something the Producer's pushed rather than Capshaw herself.THAT BEING SAID, Capshaw is a big philanthropist! She works with a whole array of organizations like the Joyful Heart Foundation; a non-profit that aids survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse.AND EVEN THOUGH IF YOU GOOGLE "Jessica Capshaw Networth" it says "20 Million Dollars" I think she's a helluva lot richer than that.Most interestingly of all, Jessica Capshaw co-founded The Honest Company alongside Jessica Alba! The Honest Company is a wellness brand focused on producing safe and eco-friendly products for families---that was valued at $550 Million in 2022.WHAT 👏 THE 👏 ACTUAL 👏 FUCK 👏GO OFF JESSICA CAPSHAW OK?? that's like 4x the Net Worth of Shonda Rhimes.Dr. April Kepner (Sarah Drew) ABCActive: Seasons 6-14Who Was Dr. April Kepner?April Kepner is the highly religious, Christian doctor who struggles with her self-confidence, but then is also a badass working alongside former Army Triage Doctor Owen Hunt in the E.R.Even though she is a ginger, I RELATE TO HER, and she was (randomly) one of my fave characters.April is in a constant love triangle with Dr. Jackson Avery and Parademic Matthew Taylor.She marries Matthew (almost) until Jackson shows up and OBJECTS and then she leaves Matthew at the altar for Jackson, they have a baby together named Harriet and then break up and THEN IMAGINE THIS SHE GETS BACK TOGETHER WITH MATTHEW THAT'S HOW SHE LEAVES THE SHOW!!How Was Dr. April Kepner Written Off?OK I GOT AHEAD OF MYSELF!She marries Matthew and then joins the U.S. Army as a Trauma Surgeon stationed in Jordan, providing medical aid to Syrian refugees.The decision to write off April Kepner was met with mixed reactions from fans, cause everyone loved her!!!💔 Heartbreak-O-Meter: 90/100 🌡️*THE COLD TEA*The tea on April Kepner's Departure is cold, cause it's kind of sad. Actress Sarah Drew was actually really vocal about how she wanted to continue working on the show, even after her character was cut.*WHAT'S MORE! ACCORDING TO THE RUMOUR MILL SARAH DREW WAS LET GO IN ORDER TO SUPPORT ELLEN POMPEO'S SALARY INCREASE*As of 2022, Ellen Pompeo makes $550,000 per Grey's Anatomy episode.Showrunner Krista Vernoff (aka Shonda Rhimes 2.0) was quick to dismiss this theory (obviously). Citing the same excuse they always do when cutting characters: "The decision to make changes to our cast was a creative one."Since Leaving Grey's Anatomy: Where is Sarah Drew Now?PAUL ARCHULETA/FILMMAGICSince leaving Grey's Anatomy, Sarah Drew has found herself in Hallmark Land starring in made-for-TV-movies like: Cagney & Lacey and Once Upon a Main Street.That being said, Drew stars in Freeform's upcoming psychological thriller TV-Series Cruel Summer. Only time will tell if this gives Drew the career boost she needs!Dr. Alex Karev (Justin Chambers) PICTURELUX/THE HOLLYWOOD ARCHIVE/ALAMY.Seasons Active: 1-16Who Was Dr. Alex Karev?Dr. Alex Karev is a Grey's Anatomy Season 1 OG. Over the course of 16 seasons and 360 episodes, Dr. Alex Karev evolves from a sarcastic, arrogant intern who wants to follow in Dr. Mark Sloan's footsteps and specializes in "Plastics" (which is like The Tech Bros of The Medical Industry) into a skilled and compassionate Pediatric Surgeon who sports pink scrubs on the daily! When Dr. Yang leaves, Alex Karev takes over as Meredith Grey's new bestie. Karev's two big relationships in Grey's Anatomy are with Dr. Izzie Stevens and Dr. Jo Wilson (Camilla Luddington).How Was Dr. Alex Karev Written Off?The Short Version: In an incredibly random turn of events, Alex Karev ditches his wife Jo Wilson in order to be with Izzie Stevens, who after like 10 years sends him a letter saying she lives on a farm with their children that he didn't even know existed.The Long Version: We don't even know why he leaves for one whole season?? He just ditches his wife Jo Wilson and then over a sh*tload of episodes it's revealed he reunited with his ex-wife Dr. Izzie Stevens, whom he discovers has given birth to twins that were conceived using frozen embryos created during their relationship. (Ya'll Shonda Rhimes was stretching with this one)In his letters to Meredith (and other characters), Alex explains that he has made the decision to be with Izzie and their children over his life in Seattle. He apologizes for VANISHING without saying goodbye and in particular---to his wife HE DIDN'T EVEN DIVORCE aka Dr. Jo Wilson.While MANY FANS thought Karev's abrupt departure was INSANE, Showrunner Krista Vernoff said it was a "creative decision" (classic) made by the show's writers to give closure to Alex Karev's storyline.Since Leaving Grey's Anatomy: Where is Justin Chambers Now?Nicole Wilder/PARAMOUNT+ Justin Chambers made the decision to leave after being on Grey's Anatomy for so many years to "diversify his acting roles and career choices". Only time will tell if this was the right move. Chambers plays the iconic role of Marlon Brando in Paramount+ Mini Series The Offer, which chronicles the behind-the-scenes making of The Godfather. Hopefully, Chambers' portrayal of the industry's iconic leading man Brando, will snag him the recognition he needs to book more work. Good things take time!Dr. Maggie Pierce (Kelly McCreary)Scott Everett White/ABCActive: Seasons 10-19Who Was Dr. Maggie Pierce?Dr. Maggie Pierce is a child genius turned Cardiothoracic Surgeon and Meredith Grey's *OTHER HALF-SISTER*Dr. Maggie Pierce begins working at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital without knowing she is the true child of Dr. Richard Webber and Dr. Ellis Grey (Meredith's Mother).How Was Dr. Maggie Pierce Written Off?Dr. Maggie Pierce is ditching Seattle for an opportunity in Chicago?? 💔 Heartbreak-O-Meter: 85/100 🌡️Since Leaving Grey's Anatomy: Where is Kelly McCreary Now?Rodin Eckenroth/Getty ImagesAccording to her last social media post, it looks like she's in her backyard...This *JUST* happened, so only time will tell!*Where Are They Now: Meredith's Lovers Edition*Dr. Andrew DeLuca (Giacomo Gianniotti)ABCWho Was Dr. Andrew DeLuca?Active: Seasons 11-14Dr. Andrew DeLuca is a surgical intern that starts hooking up with Meredith Grey but not before dating her half-sister Maggie Pierce. Honestly, DeLuca never did it for me, and I'm not *glad* he's dead...but I'm like sad about it either.How Was Dr. Andrew DeLuca Written Off?Dr. DeLuca tried o save a patient from a human trafficking operation, but then everyone thought he was *crazy* and then DeLuca learned he was *bipolar* but then somehow, the human trafficking thing came back a season later and he was *right about the whole thing* but still bipolar Also at one point Karev almost beats DeLuca to death?? By accident?? We don't know but DeLuca somehow gets involved in the human trafficking operation and gets stabbed to death 😂 I'm sorry. I can't. It's too funny??💔 Heartbreak-O-Meter: 2/100 🌡️Since Leaving Grey's Anatomy: Where is Giacomo Gianniotti Now?NobisSince his departure from Grey's Anatomy, Giacomo Gianniotti has starred in TV series The Italian Americans and LA's Finest. The Grey's Anatomy alum also starred in feature films Acquainted, The Old Guard, and Books of Blood.Giacomo Gianniotti also directed a short film titled The Quarantine Bunch, which isn't saying much because everyone and their dog has a short film.Dr. Nathan Riggs (Martin Henderson)Richard Cartwright/Getty ImagesActive: Seasons 12-14Who Was Dr. Nathan Riggs?Dr. Nathan Riggs is a hot Cardiothoracic Surgeon and randomly dated Dr. Owen Hunt's sister Dr. Megan Hunt (Abigail Spencer), before she was abducted by terrorists *no that's a real storyline look it up*.Hunt hates Riggs because he used to date his sister and Riggs wants to bone Meredith Grey.How Was Dr. Nathan Riggs Written Off?Dr. Riggs GETS A PHONE CALL from his former fiancée, Megan Hunt, who HE THOUGHT WAS KILLED BY TERRORISTS, that she's not dead but alive.And honestly...this moment f*cking kills me. Points for Shonda Rhimes.Pinterest "IF THIS WERE DEREK I'D ALREADY BE GONE" 🥹 😭Since Leaving Grey's Anatomy: Where is Martin Henderson Now?TwitterMartin Henderson is still hot and thankfully you can catch him on Netflix OriginalVirgin River!Where is the Main Grey’s Anatomy Cast Now?Shooting Season 20, of course!Yes, Ellen Pompeo is constantly threatening retirement (we stopped buying that in 2013, Ellen). Recently Pompeo revealed she was leaving Grey's for good---until she came out with a statement that actually she's just "stepping away for a while to work on a hulu show".*wipes brow*We did it. The year is 2075. Grey's Anatomy is going onto its 70th season and I am rioting in the nursing home because somehow the doctors of Grey Sloan Memorial have made a scientific breakthrough and have managed to bring Derek Shepherd back from the dead (and not just in a dream sequence)!