How to watch 'The Couple Next Door' season 2 online — stream British drama for free from abroad
"The Couple Next Door" season 2 premieres on Monday, July 14 2025 at 9 p.m. BST. Episode schedule below.• WATCH FREE — Channel 4 (U.K.) • New Zealand – TVNZ Plus (July 31)• Watch anywhere — try NordVPN 100% risk free
Just like before, "The Couple Next Door" season 2 is set in a comfy, cosy British suburban neighbourhood. But rather than continuing the storyline from season 1, the new series introduces a completely new cast of characters — together with their desires, lusts, secrets and lies.
At the heart of the drama are Charlotte (Annabel Scholey) and Jacob (Sam Palladio) — the seemingly perfect couple, with high profile medical jobs and a healthy relationship. The cracks start to show, however, when young colleague Mia (Aggy K. Adams) moves next door and an old flame of Charlotte arrives back on the scene from out of the blue.
With Hugh Dennis's creepy neighbor Alan the only recurring character from season 1, you can expect six more episodes of binge-worthy intrigue. Read on and discover how you can watch "The Couple Next Door" season 2 online and from anywhere in the world, potentially for free.
"The Couple Next Door" season 2 hits U.K. screens on Channel 4 at 9 p.m. BST on Monday, July 14. That's followed by episodes 2 and 3 on Tuesday and Wednesday. Episodes 4-6 go out daily at the same time from Monday, July 21 to Wednesday 23.
You can also stream episodes live or on-demand on the FREE online Channel 4 streaming platform.
Traveling outside the U.K? Don't worry — as we explain below, you can unblock Channel 4 and watch from anywhere when you download a VPN.
Away from home at the moment and blocked from watching "The Couple Next Door" season 2 on your usual service?
You can still watch the show thanks to the wonders of a VPN (Virtual Private Network). The software allows your devices to appear to be back in your home country regardless of where in the world you are. So ideal for viewers away on vacation or on business. Our favorite is NordVPN. It's the best VPN on the market.
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Use Nord to unblock ITVX and watch "Couple Next Door" (2025) live online with our exclusive deal.
Using a VPN is incredibly simple:
1. Install the VPN of your choice. As we've said, NordVPN is our favorite.
2. Choose the location you wish to connect to in the VPN app. For instance, if you're a Brit abroad and want to view the Channel 4 stream, you'd select a U.K. server from the location list.
3. Sit back and enjoy the show. Head to Channel 4 and stream new and old episodes of "Couple Next Door" online just as you would at home.
Season 1 of the "The Couple Next Door" went out on Starz in the U.S. But it took more than a year to cross the Atlantic after its U.K. premiere. On that basis, we wouldn't expect "The Couple Next Door" season 2 to hit U.S. screens until sometimes in 2026.
If you're a U.K. viewer travelling abroad, however, there's still a way to connect to Channel 4 from anywhere and stream hit shows like "The Couple Next Door" (2025) online no matter where you are. All you need is a VPN such as NordVPN (try it RISK-FREE) — full instructions above.
Just like it did south of the border, the first run of "The Couple Next Door" went out this year on Starz. So it looks like Canadians will be waiting a while for season 2.
If you're from the U.K. and currently travelling in Canada, you'll need to download a VPN and stream it on Channel 4.
"The Couple Next Door" season 1 went out on the Binge streaming service in Australia at the same time as it did in the U.K. However, season 2 isn't listed among its upcoming line-up of shows.
Down Under and still want to watch as new episodes land? Brits abroad can use NordVPN to help unlock their home streaming services like Channel 4.
It's been confirmed that "The Couple Next Door" season 2 will begin streaming on the free TVNZ Plus from Thursday, July 31.
If you are traveling away from New Zealand for whatever reason, you can still watch the show for free by using a VPN such as NordVPN.
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example: 1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service). 2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad. We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
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Elle
2 hours ago
- Elle
We Finally Know Whether Gladys Walks Down the Aisle in 'The Gilded Age'
Spoilers below. Three years is all Bertha Russell needed to go from obscurity to being the mother of the bride at the society wedding of the decade. However, the victory almost doesn't come to fruition as Gladys continues to resist the path to becoming a duchess. In the lead-up to the big day, the Russells deal with leaks to the press, obstinate family members, and a reluctant bride. Bertha is betting big, but it is unclear until the last minute whether Gladys will walk down the aisle. Divorce also continues to be a focus for The Gilded Age's third season, as Mrs. Astor deals with a scandal enveloping one of her daughters and Aurora now ensconced in Newport as part of her soon-to-be ex-husband's plans to marry his mistress. The Scott family is still spending time in the seaside town, with Peggy getting to witness Elizabeth Kirkland's prejudice first-hand. Elsewhere, Ada attempts to contact her husband from beyond the grave, and Larry and Jack receive an extremely enticing offer. However, Jack must now contemplate what his future looks like without the family he has made for himself at the Forte-Van Rhijn residence. The Russell household has hosted many lavish events, but a wedding to a duke is a whole new ball game. Bertha is on top of everything, except getting her daughter to leave her bedroom. Bertha also contends with her son Larry, who is making a case for Marian to be a bridesmaid because she is the same size as Leonie Jerome (who is too sick to attend). Bertha doesn't think Marian is prominent enough for this event. George asks his wife if she must 'go to the stake for everything,' causing Bertha to back down in this one instance. Not that Larry will walk with Marian down the aisle anyway; the bridesmaids will walk behind Gladys, which is the British way. Larry is on a roll in making requests as he wants to know if Bertha has invited her sister, Monica (Merritt Wever) to the nuptials. Bertha claims she doesn't want her sister to feel overwhelmed by the city, but Larry knows she is trying to hide any link to her past. 'Is the house too small?' Larry asks when Bertha acts like Monica will have nowhere to stay. George finds the whole conversation amusing as his son continues to poke and prod. One other thing that Bertha cannot control is the constant leaks to the newspapers about Gladys's bridal attire (down to the monograms on her undergarments), and the staff members are concerned that one of them is responsible. Adelheid pushes the theory that it must be someone in the dressmaker's team, and her insistence makes me wonder if Adelheid is the one selling stories to the tabloids. Despite Bertha's unenthusiastic response to her sister attending the festivities, Larry has gone ahead and invited Monica, who is at least a welcome presence for George. 'Nobody loves family more than Bertha,' George quips. But even Monica's arrival is not enough to get Gladys to leave her room. Quickly, we understand why Bertha wanted to keep her sister away. Monica has no grand designs or desire to embrace an extravagant lifestyle. On a regular day, Bertha changes at least three times (sometimes four if she is going to the opera or another event). Meanwhile, Monica travels light, only packing a single (rather unattractive) evening gown that she will wear to dinner with the duke and to the wedding. Bertha is horrified. Wever is perfect casting opposite Carrie Coon as their light sparring is pointed yet playful. Monica is not the only sibling who has come to town for the nuptials. The duke's sister, Lady Sarah (Hattie Morahan), has made the trip across the Atlantic, and the first impressions during the dinner with the Russells are less than glowing. George refers to Sarah as a 'cold fish,' observing that she plays a pivotal controlling role in Hector's day-to-day living. Sarah is single, which made me wonder if something a little Game of Thrones was happening at Sidmouth Castle, but this doesn't feel like the kind of show to take that particular incest path. After dinner (which Gladys does not attend), Bertha takes the opportunity to resolve the issue with the ugly dress as she gets Church (Jack Gilpin) to serve lukewarm coffee in a cup with a loose handle to Monica, causing it to spill down the front. Now, Monica will have to borrow something from Bertha's extensive closet. Later, Bertha reasons it was to save her from sartorial embarrassment. 'We're a pretty ruthless pair,' George observes. However, Bertha doesn't view it as a negative; she likes things to be right. George can't help but address his concerns about Betha's relentless ambition for their daughter. He would have been content with their child marrying a banker who owns a house on Fifth Avenue and a cottage in Newport. If it's enough for Gladys, then it should be enough for them. 'Go to bed, George, and wake up sensible,' Bertha snaps. Add it to the long list of perfect Gilded Age line readings. Money remains a point of contention between Agnes and Ada, with the latter now handling the dress bills. After the fitting for a new frock for the wedding, Agnes has a charity committee meeting, giving Ada time to host a seánce. Ada knows her sister would disapprove. Unfortunately, Agnes comes home early due to her new financial arrangements—Ada is welcome to attend those meetings. As expected, she is hostile toward Madame Dashkova (Andrea Graham), suggesting that the medium is exploiting grieving women, such as Ada. Madame Dashkova gives Ada her card so they can resume contact with Luke at a later date. Despite this, the mood in the Forte home remains upbeat. Agnes even asks Marian about Larry, as Marian only confides in Ada, but Agnes can see that something is going on between the pair. Agnes still has misgivings about the nouveau riche Russells, but is lapping up all the gossip in the newspapers and the fact that she is still on the invite list. Downstairs, the staff are left wondering what happened in Jack's second meeting with the clock manufacturer. Jack is at a loss for words during the negotiations, which Larry handles coolly as Mr. Weston wants to buy the idea outright. Jack's eyes bug out as they throw figures around, especially when he realizes that Larry has sold it for $600,000. Jack thought he would be working on this horology project for the rest of his life, and now that he has sold his invention, he has no idea what to do. Rather than tell the other staff, Jack doesn't elaborate, other than to say he thinks the meeting went well. Later, when he can't sleep, Jack confides to Mrs. Bauer that they sold the clock. Mrs. Bauer believes it is reasonable that he wants to continue working to add to his nest egg. Jack tells her that he is $300,000 richer, causing the cook to drop the bowl she is holding. His hesitation might seem unexpected, but it is grounded in sentiment, as before coming to work for Agnes (and now Ada), he didn't have anywhere to call home. The staff at 61st Street are his family, and by quitting, it means he loses access to his nearest and dearest. Mrs. Bauer promises to keep his secret for now. Peggy and Dr. William Kirkland continue their light flirtation. Still, William's mother, Elizabeth, can't help but roll her eyes and make remarks at Peggy's politics, such as her support of suffrage. Discrimination is a theme in Peggy's talk to the wealthy Rhode Island residents, which causes more raised eyebrows from some. The Kirkland matriarch makes some offhand remarks about Peggy's father (who is at work in Brooklyn), saying he is 'not a Newport man' whose history makes him different from the rest of their group. The comment is brimming with so much judgment and disdain that Peggy now knows what her parents were arguing about in the previous episode. One New York society figure attending Peggy's talk but not the wedding is Aurora Fane. After her husband humiliated her at the charity benefit they were scheduled to host together, Aurora relocated to Newport to begin the divorce proceedings. Aurora tells Peggy that she is doing as well as she can, but is still reeling from the recent bombshell that has rocked her life. Considering how Mrs. Astor immediately shunned Aurora after learning of the impending divorce, it appears the queen of New York is getting some karmic payback. An item in the newspaper on the day of the wedding is interpreted by all to be about Mrs. Astor's daughter Charlotte (Hannah Shealy), whose husband, J. Coleman Drayton, challenged Hallet Alsop Borrowe to a duel in Paris after suspecting his wife of having an affair. It doesn't matter that the duel never happened, the story is already spreading like wildfire. Mrs. Astor insists that Charlotte stay home. While she dislikes Bertha, it would be unforgivable to 'bring a note of scandal into her daughter's wedding.' Charlotte doesn't let her mother leave without spilling some home truths, like how her mother's 'terror of divorce' means she cannot live a life free from a bad marriage. Mrs. Astor lives a separate life from her husband, but without the paperwork that would ruin the illusion—Charlotte mentions her father is living it up on his yacht with younger women. At the church, it doesn't get better for New York's queen bee. The entire congregation is whispering about her daughter's antics, which have become the day's hot gossip. Ward McClalister (Nathan Lane) is on hand to be Mrs. Astor's buffer, including to Bertha (who has not read the news), and is on the receiving end of Mrs. Astor's short fuse. The true-to-history salacious news is the perfect pre-wedding conversation starter. Another potential scandal is brewing, as few people attending the wedding are aware that the entire event might be called off. Despite reservations about Marian being a bridesmaid, Bertha calls on her neighbor to coax Gladys from her room. Or at least to encourage Gladys to begin getting ready. Marian is in the crosshairs between her friend and potential future mother-in-law, so she treads carefully. Marian mentions that she is not a great heiress like Gladys, so she doesn't have the same responsibilities. Plus, sometimes a bride and groom can be head over heels for each other (Marian uses Charlotte Astor as an example), and it spectacularly falls apart. It might be George's daughter's wedding day, but JP Morgan has pressing business to discuss with the robber baron. JP tells George that he is pulling out of their railroad deal because it is far too risky. Not what George wants to hear, yet he insists on pressing forward with these risky financial plans. Next, George must negotiate with Gladys about her next moves. Despite his misgivings about the entire arrangement, he tells his daughter that the time to back out is no more. If she doesn't make it to the altar, she will be haunted by this stain forever. George thinks he has failed Gladys, but can't conceive a way out. George won't drag her down the aisle, though, giving her 10 minutes to decide if she wants to come down from her room or not. The whole Russell house is aflutter, waiting, and when Adelheid comes downstairs with the veil, she signals that Gladys is on her way. George looks relieved that his daughter made this choice. Before they go into the church, Gladys says she knows they are at the point of no return. Underneath her veil, the tears flow. Larry looks nearly as sad as his sister that this is happening. Bertha is also crying, but with pure joy that her project has come to fruition. 'I pray you are right about this,' George whispers to his wife. Bertha has no time for his naysaying, telling her husband to let her enjoy this moment. By the time we see Gladys on the boat to England (sadly, there are no scenes of the lavish celebrations after the ceremony), she has stopped crying and has dressed for bedtime. On their first night as a married couple, Hector asks Gladys if she knows what other duties a wife is expected to fulfil. While his behavior isn't outright predatory, it is rather awkward, as he admits that the first time will be embarrassing for both of them. While Hector admits he is tired, he doesn't want to wait. With the Brooklyn Bridge now in the distance, Gladys is embarking on her new role as a duchess, and Bertha will have to find a new ambitious project to ensure she continues her ascent.
Buzz Feed
3 hours ago
- Buzz Feed
36 Products To Help Entertain Your Kids All Summer Long
An Elmer's glue slime kit since slime is easily your kids' favorite craft. From butter slime to glow-in-the-dark slime to color-changing slime — this'll def be a craft your kid will always be in the mood to do. The kit includes regular slime activator, crunchy slime activator, butter slime activator, glow-in-the-dark slime activator, cherry limeade scented activator, glitter glue, clear glue, color-changing glue, glow-in-the-dark glue, and translucent glue. Promising review: "My kids loved this kit. Hours of fun! Did it make a mess? Yes… but it cleaned up easily. I didn't allow the slime on carpet or fabric furniture, so I don't know how easily it would clean up off of that type of material. The mess was totally worth it for me. For reference, my kids' ages are 15, 10, and 7. They all enjoyed it." —Michael it from Amazon for $30.82 (available in one other kit). A pack of 12 reusable, latex-free silicone water balloons to keep the battles going all summer long. You know what this means, don't you? You won't have to pick up alllll those tiny pieces of destroyed balloons! A waterproof version of Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza so you can avoid the "I'm borrrred" whining during adult swim this summer. Your kids may not even wanna get back in the pool cuz they'll be so into their fave game. Dolphin Hat Games is a small biz that specializes in family-friendly card play, pass out all of the cards to players and have everyone keep their pile facedown. Everyone takes turns putting a card in the middle while saying "taco," "cat," "goat," "cheese," and "pizza" in that order. If the picture on the card that's placed down matches the word that's been said, everyone races to slap the center pile of cards, and whoever slaps the pile last has to add the center pile to their personal pile. Oh! And there's also "narwhal," where everyone makes a unicorn horn with their hands clapped together above their heads; "gorilla," where everyone bangs on their chest like a gorilla; and "groundhog," where everyone has to knock on the table. Whoever does the motion last picks up the center pile. Whoever runs out of cards first wins! You can play with three to eight players, and the *recommended* age is 8+.Promising review: "I always think about games to play when at the pool — especially when there are 10-minute swim breaks and everyone is out of the pool — this is the perfect game! First of all, our family loves Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza. It's a game that's really easy to learn and is an energetic card game (perfect for kids!). To be able to bring this game around the water is awesome. I love how the cards are heavier, so they don't blow away as easily, too. The card ring makes them really easy to just toss in a bag, and I feel like it's indestructible. Honestly, we'll probably play this version of the game even inside just because of how indestructible it is (no one accidentally stepping on a card/ creasing it, etc.). Highly recommend!" —jessieGet it from Amazon for $14.99. An inflatable chicken game, which includes two big ol' fighting chickens that your kids will wanna play with every single day. They'll have a blast wrestling each other off of these big, silly chickens, and best of all, they won't be wrestling in your house next to your very expensive china cabinet. Heck, you might even wanna get on one during your lunch break to partake in all the fun. Promising review: "These chickens are probably the most awesome pool floats we have ever purchased! We have two 12-year-old boys who are having a blast on these things! They also like to sit on them and battle with our pool noodles! They seem to be very durable and have held up well so far. They are not like the cheaper floats that you have to keep blowing up. Yeah, they are a tad bit on the pricey side, but trust me, they are worth it and tons of fun for adults as well." —Vanessa KGet a set of two from Amazon for $69.95. A friendship bracelet-making kit 'cause nothing says summer like arms full of colorful threaded bracelets. It also has a compartment that's perfect for storing all the floss! Or a rainbow loom kit with over 7,000 colorful latex-free rubber bands in 21 different colors that'll last your kiddo all summer. They'll be able to make themselves all the anklets, chokers, and bracelets their little heart desires. Reviewers love it because it keeps their kids busy for hours. Music to your ears, huh? You'll get 7,000+ rubber bands, 300 C-clips, a rainbow loom hook, 12 gift bags, instructions, and a handy organizer case, Promising review: "I have seven kids ranging from a 13-year-old boy down to a 5-year-old girl who all absolutely love making these bracelets. Keeps them busy for hours." —KeverlyGet it from Amazon for $21.99. A 150-piece marble run set that'll provide endless hours of fun and stimulate your little mini bestie's mind. Your kid will be able to build some pretty awesome mazes, and once they're done, they'll be able to take it apart and create a totally new one! The gift that keeps on giving. A splash mat — basically a slip-and-slide style, three-lane race with three inflatable bodyboards that'll keep your kids outdoors, playing together, rather than fighting and whining in the living room. Promising review: "We used this at my daughter's birthday party to distract the bigger kids. They played on this thing all night. It held up well and did not leak. The boards were the perfect size for the kids. We loved this slip and slide." —KelciGet it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in three sizes). The Pastry Project monthly subscription box that your mini Duff Goldman in the making will go wild for. It's truly a win for everyone — your kid will be entertained, and you'll get to indulge in all the yummy treats they make! Caramel cheesecake brownies, cream puffs, pretzels, apple fritters — is your mouth watering? 'Cause mine is! Promising review: "My 11-year-old son loves to bake, but a lot of recipes are too involved for him to do on his own yet. However, he recently received a pastry kit subscription as a gift, and these kits are perfect! The instructions are easy to follow, the ingredients are high quality, and the finished products are delicious. My son can make these recipes all on his own and is learning new techniques with each one. He is SO excited to receive the next one!" —ShaylaGet a monthly subscription from The Pastry Project for $35 (also available in a one-time purchase, and 3-, 6-, and 12-month subscriptions). A portable 120-inch screen because the only thing better than watching a movie is watching one outdoors on a summer night. Just set it up with a mini Bluetooth projector and *boom!* Your house is the place to be this season. And some movie trays to take your movie-watching experience to the next level. There's no way your kids won't be happily glued to the screen with their snacks in their lap. You'll get 12 popcorn bags and six movie trays!Promising review: "These are great for movie nights with the kids! Bags hold a decent amount of popcorn, trays are sturdy and not flimsy/cheap, and easily hold everything. Definitely recommend these!" —JRGet them from Amazon for $9.99. A clay pottery wheel kit for your crafty little one who can't get enough of a good ol' art project. And making your own jewelry dish is pretty dang cool, might I add. A two-pack of LED hover balls because your kiddos simply cannot understand why they aren't allowed to play soccer in the house. These have built-in bumpers, so you don't have to worry about your furniture getting all messed up as they glide across the floor. A collection of six Dog Man books for those days where your kid has so much energy you can not stand it anymore. Whip these out and they'll *actually* be excited to sit quietly for a while. Promising review: "My son was in the third grade and raved about these books all year. After volunteering at the school's book fair, I learned how popular Dog Man was, and not just to third graders. Kids of all grades from second to fifth took an interest in Dog Man. The books were sold out by the third day of a week-long book fair. Needless to say, this was a great buy!" —KyshaGet a collection of six books from Amazon for $42.87. A Dude Perfect tabletop game since it's their fave show and they *live* for the fun challenges these guys do. Now they can do one of their very own! Promising review: "My kids love all things Dude Perfect, and this game didn't disappoint either! The nets stick perfectly on the end of the table. Fun game and great gift for birthdays, Christmas, or just because!" —RaeGet it from Amazon for $18.30. A set of sprinklers to attach to your trampoline because everyone knows that water elevates any and every summer activity. It'll bring a whole new level of fun to bouncing around. Promising review: "The Trampoline Sprinkler Water Toy is a blast — easy to set up and perfect for cooling off. It sprays all around the trampoline, creating a playful water park vibe in your backyard. My kids loved bouncing through the mist — great for hot summer days." —KSNGet it from Amazon for $13.99 (available in two styles). A Disney princess color-by-number coloring book that'll have your kid wanting to do absolutely nothing but sit quietly and color for hours. I have three of these coloring books (this one is on my wish list), and I'm obsessed with themmmm. I kept seeing them on TikTok and had to have them. Pro tip: grab some paint pens (these are the ones I bought). They make all the difference, and that's how the coloring pages end up looking so good. Plus, the paint pens don't bleed through! I have no regrets and plan to buy basically every single one of these coloring books. But for now, I'm loving the three I have (check 'em out — 1, 2, and 3).Promising review: "I absolutely love the Disney Princess Color by Number books! As an adult, I find them incredibly relaxing and fun to work on, and they turn out beautifully every time. My kids enjoy them just as much, making it a great activity we can do together. The designs are detailed enough to be satisfying for adults but still accessible for kids. I've already purchased several more because we can't get enough! Highly recommend for both kids and adults who love Disney and coloring. Perfect for display models, too!" —JenniferGet it from Amazon for $25.29. A splurge-y rechargeable laser tag set your child will NEVER stop talking about. Laser tag right at home? Sign me up! Your house will now be the house all the kids wanna sleep over and hang out at. And, admit it, you'll wanna play a round or two with them as well. A Black Panther Lego set with 2,961 pieces that'll have your kid occupied basically all summer. If your teen is Marvel-obsessed, they'll *actually* love this. I know, it seems like they don't enjoy anyFREAKINGthing, but trust me, they'll be tucked away for hours working on this. Promising review: "This Black Panther Lego set is amazing and quite large. My teen son put it together over three days working on and off. The Lego bust is detailed at every angle and even has its own necklace and moveable fingers. This was a great activity for my son, as well as an amazing addition to his Marvel collection. Definitely recommend." —MelitaGet it from Amazon for $324.99. Or a Venom Lego set because nothing will bring you more peace than sitting your kiddo down with 565 Lego pieces to assemble. No worries, it won't try to eat everyone. It's recommended for 18+, but reviewers say their kids were able to do it on their own, or only needed a bit of help. It could even be a fun activity to do with your kiddo who complains they're bored every five minutes. Promising review: "This thing is very cool. Bought this for my 10-year-old son to build. He is just getting into Legos and was able to build this with minimal help. Instructions are very easy to follow, and the end product looks amazing. If you're a fan, this is a very cool item to put on display." —Alinette HayesGet it from Amazon for $124.95. An inflatable tic-tac-toe pool game, an epic challenge your kids won't be able to get enough of. Much more fun and unpredictable than the paper-and-pencil version. Promising review: "I ordered this for the kids to break up the monotony of the same boring pool games and floats, and it's been a ton of fun! It's fun for all ages, my husband and I have also been playing tic-tac-toe with it! Highly recommend!" —C TuckerGet it from Amazon for $35.99+ (available in three colors). An I Spy book because remember how long *you* used to sit and search through this riddle book? You may even be tempted to give this baby a go yourself. A guaranteed good time no matter the age. Promising reviews: "Kept the 5-year-old grandson entertained for hours! Great interactive book for connecting with your little one!" —Michael D. Barry"My grandsons love I Spy books. Like all the other I Spy books we own, this one did not disappoint. Such great quality books and such a wonderful alternative to tablet time." —Gregory M. MatliGet it from Amazon for $9.30. An air fort, so they won't need to arrange all the furniture and take every blanket in the house to make a fort anymore. The same level of entertainment with way less mess. A splurge-worthy Nintendo Switch because your kid is a total gamer and has been eyeing this baby for a while. It comes with two detachable Joy-Con controllers, and they'll be able to play this on the TV, tabletop, or as a handheld game. (Meaning it's portable!) A spacious inflatable pool they'll be so hyped about. Their very own pool?! IN THE BACKYARD?! Getting them to go play outside will be so easy. Or an inflatable water park to keep your kiddos cool and entertained. Avoid heat-induced meltdowns by giving your little one a play center equipped with two slides, a climbing wall, a splash pool, a deeper pool, a water bucket, and tons of little areas that spray water. Your house will def be the fun house all summer. Uh, do they happen to have one in an adult size? 'Cause I want one. A bubble gun that shoots out hundreds of bubbles at a time, creating a bubble frenzy! You won't be able to resist joining in on the fun, and it has lights! A paintable squishies kit because the only thing better than these soft little toys is making 'em yourself! Since your kiddo already has a squishy obsession, they'll probz flip their lid when you hand them this and they realize they can make their very own. You may need to stock up on these kits, cuz they're gonna wanna paint more and more of these babies. A glow-in-the-dark tumbling tower game with LED building blocks for some nighttime entertainment. It has three LED pattern modes for fun, challenging new ways to play this classic building game. Perfect for late-night BBQs and pool parties! Promising review: "We love this!! It's like light-up Jenga. We set it up, turn it on, and turn the house lights off. The kids love it!! Pieces are quality-made. Going to buy one as a gift for my brother!" —Janice ConklinGet it from Amazon for $65.99. A fully equipped Klutz Lego Make Your Own Movie Activity Kit for your little creative kiddo who has the imagination of the kid from Where The Wild Things Are. Give 'em this and let their little minds run wild. They'll be stoked to watch a mini-movie they made themselves. I think you've got a baby Steven Spielberg on your hands. Promising review: "My son got this for a Christmas present and it was hands down the best gift. He has made so many cute films using the props in the kit. He has also become very curious about how movies are made and the different jobs people have to make a movie. Highly recommend this a gift for a curious kid." —Wünderbar MuttiGet it from Amazon for $24.74. A "Sorry!" board game — sorry to your kids, that is, because you're def gonna kick their little booties in this. Your kiddos are gonna be the ones pulling *you* away from the board 'cause you won't be able to get enough of this super fun "classic game of sweet revenge." To play, each player draws cards that move them through the board. The first player to get all their pawns across the board and back home wins! Recommended for ages 6+.Promising reviews: "Nostalgia made me buy this game, and I couldn't be happier. Got my kids to enjoy a game I enjoyed as a kid, and they loved it — I kicked their butt :)." —AK"This was always a childhood favorite of mine. Still enjoy playing it now with my daughter. New rules make it more fun and quicker to play. The whole family enjoys it." —Jennifer TavaresGet it from Amazon for $9.84. An inflatable double-sided table set that comes with waterproof playing cards and two inflatable sling chairs with cup holders. On one side, they can play regular card games or even poker, and on the other side, they can play chess and checkers. Playing card games is cool, but playing card games with a cold soda in the pool = elite. Promising review: "Love love love this product!!!! We use it a whole lot. We usually play Uno at the pool. We have the Uno waterproof cards, and it's so cool for the kids and me to play together. The material is super sturdy, and the attachments are good material as well. No fear of tearing it, 'cause it's very thick. Excellent buy!!!" —MiguelinaGet it from Amazon for $45 (available in a blackjack version). A set of two Banzai Bump N Bounce Body Bumpers, kinda like the Sock'em Boppers your mom wouldn't let you have in the '90s. Totally don't be a regular parent, be a cool parent and snag these for the yourself. You know you wanna try. A What Do You Meme? SpongeBob edition that puts a wonderful Bikini Bottom twist on the regular game. If you and your minis love to spend the day reciting SpongeBob quotes, this game is *perfect* for your fam. To play, everyone will be given caption cards. A meme picture will be put on the mini easel, and players will all match a caption card to that meme. An appointed judge will decide which combo is funniest, and whoever wins that round gets to judge next and keeps the meme. The player with the most memes at the end wins! Recommended for ages 8+.Promising review: "This was a gift for my son, and he was so excited. It's a super funny game and had us all laughing! It is good quality, the cards are printed well, and I'm sure we will play it many times. Good for all ages, it is kid-friendly." —KBall18Get it from Amazon for $13.59. A create-your-own published storybook kit your creative kiddo will *swoon* over. Have them fill out the included papers with their own story and illustrations, slip the pages in the pre-addressed envelope, pop it into the mail, and they'll get a printed, hardcover book back. If your kid has a wild imagination, give 'em this and they'll be distracted with creating their book for hours, ~and~ it'll teach them that their imagination can take them far. It comes with a blank cover page, 20 blank storybook sheets, a guidebook, a pre-stamped mailing envelope, and 10 review: "My daughter, who is 10.5 years old, is working on her own book! She loves this gift so much. It has given her a project where, instead of racing through it, she is taking her time. She cannot wait to finish her personal story so we can ship her pages back and receive her hard-bound book. She will soon be an author! Thank you for making an affordable, creative, hands-on project for anyone to enjoy." —Jessica it from Uncommon Goods for $32. Some glow-in-the-dark beach balls that'll keep the kiddos entertained way longer than the regular ol' beach balls because who doesn't love a lil' glow-in-the-dark fun? Promising review: "We ordered these for a pool party for our teen. The kids absolutely loved them, and I am convinced it contributed to extending the outside time late into the evening and kept them enjoying the pool longer. The ambiance was fun and great for all! The quality seems great." —Leanne MolterGet a four-pack from Amazon for $24.99 (also available in an eight-pack). Your kids during adult swim when you pull out the waterproof Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza: The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.
Newsweek
6 hours ago
- Newsweek
New 'Superman' Beats 'Man of Steel' Opening Amid MAGA Backlash—With a Catch
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Official numbers for opening weekend for James Gunn's Superman movie have come in, marking a strong opening that has topped Zack Snyder's 2013 film Man of Steel as Warner Bros. looks to completely overhaul its comic book movie universe. However, fans of Snyder's film have pointed out that the opening box office numbers require some context. Newsweek reached out to Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) by email outside of normal business hours on Sunday afternoon for comment. Why It Matters A lot rides on the success of Gunn's film, which is meant to serve as the first entry in a new DC Comics movie universe. Warner Bros., as the company was known in 2013, tried to launch a new comics cinematic universe to compete with the wildly successful Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). However, as opening weekend drew closer, several politically charged moments threatened to derail the movie's potential success. Gunn did not shy away from the fact that his movie would tackle politics, telling British newspaper The Times that "Superman is the story of America. An immigrant that came from other for me, it's mostly a story that says basic human kindness is a value and something we have lost." His comments prompted backlash from high-profile right-wing media personalities and "Make America Great Again" (MAGA) supporters, such as Fox News host Jesse Watters to jokingly say: "You know what it says on his cape? MS-13," and "Superman is fighting for truth, justice, and your preferred pronouns." Kellyanne Conway, the senior counselor to the president during the first Trump administration, also weighed in by saying: "We don't go to the movie theater to be lectured to and to have somebody throw their ideology on to us." Dean Cain, an ardent supporter of President Donald Trump who played Superman in the 1990s TV series Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, during an interview with TMZ also criticized Gunn for making Superman "woke," saying: "I think bringing Superman into it... I think that was a mistake by James Gunn to say it's an immigrant thing, and I think it's going to hurt the numbers on the movie. I was excited for the film. I am excited to see what it is...I'm rooting for it to be a success, but I don't like that last political comment." People cross the street near billboards advertising the new "Superman" film in Times Square on July 9 in New York City. People cross the street near billboards advertising the new "Superman" film in Times Square on July 9 in New York City. CraigWhat To Know Man of Steel, the first entry in what is now known as the Synderverse part of the DC Extended Universe (DCEU), had a strong box office following the lukewarm success of the 2006 film Superman Returns but had very divisive reviews from critics. Fans were more open to the new interpretation, but failure to deliver a cohesive and engaging universe with further entries, which included Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice, Wonder Woman, and Justice League, prompted a major change of course, especially after Warner Bros. merged with Discovery to become Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), and new CEO David Zaslav looked to resurrect the company's greatest assets. When Gunn, the writer and director behind the wildly successful and popular Guardians of the Galaxy series for Marvel, crossed the proverbial aisle and made The Suicide Squad, Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) seized on a major opportunity. Gunn and producer Peter Safran have now charted a new course for the company's superhero movies, starting with the Gods and Monsters phase of films. James Gunn attends the "Superman" Fan Event at Cineworld Leicester Square on July 02, 2025 in London, England. James Gunn attends the "Superman" Fan Event at Cineworld Leicester Square on July 02, 2025 in London, England. Samir Hussein/WireImage So far, Superman, starring David Corenswet in the title role alongside Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, is off to a flying start, raking in $122 million domestically and $217 million for a global cumulative gross, according to Deadline. This narrowly beat out Man of Steel, which opened to around $116 million domestically and just over $200 million globally over four days, making Superman the best-ever opening for a solo Superman film, and the biggest opening for a film featuring Superman after Batman v. Superman, which had a monster $420 million worldwide opening, including $166 million domestically. However, fans of Man of Steel have been quick to point out on social media that adjusted for inflation, Snyder's entry performed better. On the Box Office subreddit, users posted an adjusted inflation total for each Superman movie, and with that calculation, Man of Steel made just shy of $160 million domestically and $295 million globally. An average film sees around 40 percent drop from week one to week two. Superman not only had a strong opening, but very positive critical response, with Rotten Tomatoes posting an 82 percent critics rating and a 95 percent audience rating compared to Man of Steel, which posted a 57 percent critics rating and 71 percent audience rating. What People Are Saying Writer and director James Gunn told The Times: "Yes, it's about politics, but on another level it's about morality. Do you never kill no matter what — which is what Superman believes — or do you have some balance, as Lois believes? It's really about their relationship and the way different opinions on basic moral beliefs can tear two people apart." He later said: "Superman is the story of America. An immigrant that came from other places and populated the country, but for me it is mostly a story that says basic human kindness is a value and is something we have there will be jerks out there who are just not kind and will take it as offensive just because it is about kindness. But screw them." "I'm telling a story about a guy who is uniquely good, and that feels needed now because there is a meanness that has emerged due to cultural figures being mean online." Gunn's brother, actor Sean Gunn who plays Maxwell Lord in the film, said, per Variety: "My reaction to [the backlash] is that it is exactly what the movie is about. We support our people, you know? We love our immigrants. Yes, Superman is an immigrant, and yes, the people that we support in this country are immigrants and if you don't like that, you're not American. People who say no to immigrants are against the American way." What Happens Next? Superman has two weeks before Marvel releases its much-promoted Fantastic Four: First Steps, which starts a new phase of the MCU and will tie into the mysterious and course-correcting Avengers: Doomsday, which will see Robert Downey Jr. return to the franchise in a new role as Doctor Doom.
