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TL;DR: Live stream Golden State Warriors vs. Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA with FuboTV, Sling TV, or YouTube TV.
The Golden State Warriors head to crypto.com Arena to face the Los Angeles Lakers in a Western Conference matchup. The Warriors are 25-25, which puts the team the 11th place. The Lakers are 29-19, which puts the team in fifth place.
The Warriors have won three of their last five games, and are coming off a win over the Orlando Magic. The Lakers have won four of their last five games, and are coming off three consecutive wins over the LA Clippers, New York Knicks, and Washington Wizards.
When is Golden State Warriors vs. Los Angeles Lakers?Golden State Warriors vs. Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA starts at 9 p.m. ET on Feb. 5. This game takes place at crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
This game will air on TNT and TruTV, and it will stream on Max.
How to watch Golden State Warriors vs. Los Angeles LakersYou need to choose a streaming service to watch the NBA without cable or satellite TV. We've found some of the best streaming services to consider for the Warriors vs. Lakers basketball game.
Best for single game: FuboTV Opens in a new window Credit: Fubo TV FuboTV Pro Plan Get DealFuboTV offers you more than 250 channels of live TV and the option to watch on 10 screens at once. You can try FuboTV with a seven-day free trial period.
FuboTV’s sports channel offerings include ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNews, FOX, FS1, FS2, Golf Network, Marquee Sports Network, Monumental Sports, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network.
Most live sports: YouTube TV Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV $49.99/month for your first two months (save $46) Get DealYouTube TV's base plan is $49.99 per month for two months for new subscribers ($72.99 per month regularly). The base plan includes over 100 live TV channels, including ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, Fox Sports 1, and NBA TV.
Most affordable: Sling TV Opens in a new window Credit: Sling TV Sling Orange Plan Get DealSling TV suggests the streamer's Orange Plan for the game, which costs $20 for the first month and $40 monthly after that.
Sling TV’s sports channels feature ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, ESPNews, ESPNU, FOX, FS1, FS2, NBA TV, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network.
How to watch Warriors vs. Lakers from anywhere in the worldIf you're traveling outside of the U.S. during this game, you might need to use a VPN to unblock this live stream. VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server, meaning you can unblock live streams of the NBA from anywhere in the world.
Live stream Golden State Warriors vs. Los Angeles Lakers for free by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in the U.S.
Sign in to your favorite streaming app
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to live streams of the NBA without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream Golden State Warriors vs. Los Angeles Lakers before recovering your investment.
What is the best VPN for the NBA?ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure
Fast connection speeds free from throttling
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.
Live stream Golden State Warriors vs. Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA with ExpressVPN.
TL;DR: Live stream Dallas Mavericks vs. Boston Celtics in the NBA with FuboTV, Sling TV, or YouTube TV.
The Dallas Mavericks head to TD Garden to face the Boston Celtics in a non-conference matchup. The Mavericks are 26-25, which puts the team in 11th place in the Western Conference. The Celtics are 36-15, which puts the team in second place in the Eastern Conference.
The Mavs have lost three of their last five games, all of those losses have come consecutively. The Mavs have not won a game since the organization announced the trade of 25-year-old star Luka Doncic. The Celtics have won four of their last five games, and all of those wins have come consecutively.
When is Dallas Mavericks vs. Boston Celtics?Dallas Mavericks vs. Boston Celtics in the NBA starts at 7:30 p.m. ET on Feb. 6. This game takes place at TD Garden in Boston.
This game will air on TNT and TruTV, and it will stream on Max.
How to watch Dallas Mavericks vs. Boston CelticsYou need to choose a streaming service to watch the NBA without cable or satellite TV. We've found some of the best streaming services to consider for the Mavs vs. Celtics basketball game.
Best for single game: FuboTV Opens in a new window Credit: Fubo TV FuboTV Pro Plan Get DealFuboTV offers you more than 250 channels of live TV and the option to watch on 10 screens at once. You can try FuboTV with a seven-day free trial period.
FuboTV’s sports channel offerings include ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNews, FOX, FS1, FS2, Golf Network, Marquee Sports Network, Monumental Sports, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network.
Most live sports: YouTube TV Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV $49.99/month for your first two months (save $46) Get DealYouTube TV's base plan is $49.99 per month for two months for new subscribers ($72.99 per month regularly). The base plan includes over 100 live TV channels, including ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, Fox Sports 1, and NBA TV.
Most affordable: Sling TV Opens in a new window Credit: Sling TV Sling Orange Plan Get DealSling TV suggests the streamer's Orange Plan for the game, which costs $20 for the first month and $40 monthly after that.
Sling TV’s sports channels feature ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, ESPNews, ESPNU, FOX, FS1, FS2, NBA TV, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network.
How to watch Mavs vs. Celtics from anywhere in the worldIf you're traveling outside of the U.S. during this game, you might need to use a VPN to unblock this live stream. VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server, meaning you can unblock live streams of the NBA from anywhere in the world.
Live stream Dallas Mavericks vs. Boston Celtics for free by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in the U.S.
Sign in to your favorite streaming app
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to live streams of the NBA without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream Dallas Mavericks vs. Boston Celtics before recovering your investment.
What is the best VPN for the NBA?ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure
Fast connection speeds free from throttling
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.
Live stream Dallas Mavericks vs. Boston Celtics in the NBA with ExpressVPN.
Global superstar Rihanna enters "her blue era" in the trailer for the upcoming Smurfs, which sees her playing Smurfette. She's the latest in a string of pop stars to take on the role, with Katy Perry voicing her in 2011's The Smurfs and 2013's The Smurfs 2, and Demi Lovato taking on the role in 2017's Smurfs: The Lost Village.
SEE ALSO: 2025 movie preview: All the films you'll want to know aboutInspired by the comics of Belgian artist Peyo, 2025's Smurfs once again sees the titular blue creatures leaving their idyllic village for our real world. This time, they're on the hunt for Papa Smurf (voiced by John Goodman, The Righteous Gemstones), who's been kidnapped by the evil wizards Gargamel and Razamel. They find themselves in Paris, where they ally themselves with Doc's brother (Parks and Recreation's Nick Offerman).
Watch the trailer above to meet Rihanna's Smurfette, a bizarre influencer Smurf, and more. Bonus points if you can count how many times they say "smurf." (Warning: It's a lot.)
There are two kinds of Super Bowl watchers: the ones that watch for the game and the ones that watch for the halftime show.
But, every now and then, a halftime show comes along that is so electrifying, it definitively overshadows the actual sporting event. A good halftime show has the power to transcend barriers, unite viewers all over the world, and make, break, or revitalize a career. These shows also light up the internet with memes and takes (see: left shark).
SEE ALSO: The 8 songs Rihanna should perform at the Super Bowl halftime showThis is by no means a comprehensive list. But below, in no particular order, are some of the most memorable performances to grace the football field. Actual football performances not included.
Rihanna and her baby bump (2023)This writer found Rihanna's halftime show to be underwhelming and lacking energy. But since I am in the very small minority here, I will begrudgingly add RiRi's name to the list, since it was the most watched halftime show of all time with 121 million views and her relaxed delivery and lack of special guests was praised for letting Rihanna's iconic zero-fucks attitude and banger hits shine.
Rihanna hasn't released an album since 2016, so expectations about her setlist and who her "surprise guest" would be were all over the place. It turns out the surprise guest was her second child in utero, which she casually revealed by not directly calling attention to her pregnancy, but strutting on a suspended platform in an unzipped red jumpsuit. The anti-reveal reveal was so quintessentially Rihanna that the internet promptly lost its mind.
Effectively, Rihanna reminded everyone what we were missing and left us wanting more, which is just about as successful an outcome as any halftime performer could ask for. Here's hoping for new Rihanna music in 2025.
Prince (2007)For Super Bowl XLI, the Indianapolis Colts and the Chicago Bears braved the pouring rain and driving winds (Colts won 29-17). But Prince fought those same elements while playing a live electric guitar, a pretty metal move considering water and electricity are a dangerous combination.
SEE ALSO: How to stream Super Bowl LVII for free, without cableUnfazed, Prince set a high bar for halftime shows. He started with Queen's "We Will Rock You," and transitioned into his own "Let's Go Crazy," eventually bringing the stadium down with "Purple Rain." Watching him shred on his signature Prince symbol guitar in the pouring rain instantly became an iconic sight and solidified Prince's status as one of the best performers of all time.
Coldplay, Bruno Mars, and Beyoncé but really just Beyoncé (2016)Wait, the 2016 halftime show was headlined by Coldplay? We forgot because Beyoncé's special guest appearance completely stole the show. First Bruno Mars crashed the stage with "Uptown Funk," to which Beyoncé responded by storming the field with her perfectly synchronized backup dancers, performing "Formation."
Wearing a military-style getup, a nod to Michael Jackson's halftime show outfit, Bey strutted to the stage and slayed (sorry) in a dance-off with Bruno Mars. By the time Coldplay's Chris Martin came back to the front, even he seemed to realize this was Beyoncé's moment.
Katy Perry (2015)(Stefon voice) This show had everything: a giant lion puppet, a historic viral moment, inspired guest appearances, ample costume changes, and a shooting star. The 2015 halftime show may be best remembered for the left shark, but Katy Perry also put on a hell of a show. Perry came riding in the lion, then passed it off to Lenny Kravitz singing "I Kissed a Girl."
Then the left shark captivated the internet with its blasé dance moves. Through it all, Perry brought strong energy and impressively sang live. By the time Perry brought on Missy Elliot who performed "Work It" and "Lose Control," we knew this halftime show was one for the record books. Perry capped it all off by singing "Firework" as she was lifted up onto a shooting star. Bravo.
Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar and 50 Cent (2022)In the comments of the official recording, one YouTuber said, "This is not just a concert, this is also a history class," which sums it up pretty well. Rapper and producer Dr. Dre's influence on hip hop can't be overstated. He's credited with launching the careers of Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, 50 Cent, Anderson .Paak, Kendrick Lamar, and many others. And during the 2022 halftime show he brought his famous friends to the stage for a legendary performance.
The "history lesson" started with Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg performing "The Next Episode" and "California Love." The show played off the West Coast vs. East Coast rivalry with New York native 50 Cent rapping "In Da Club," while hanging upside down. Then Mary J. Blige belted out "Family Affair" and "No More Pain," followed by Kendrick Lamar delivering powerful renditions of "m.A.A.d City" and "Alright," and Eminem giving everyone goosebumps with "Lose Yourself." Dre even fit in a tribute to 2Pac. The show closed out with everyone on stage performing "Still D.R.E." A perfect close to a celebration of Dre and historic hip hop moments.
Diana Ross (1996)Pyrotechnics, mass-coordinated dance routines, and costume changes are de rigeur for halftime shows these days. But not only was Diana Ross the first to do it, her performance still holds up today. Ross performed a medley of some of her biggest hits including "Baby Love" and "Stop in the Name of Love" with her signature smile. Then, in the middle of singing "Ain't No Mountain High Enough," her gold cape spread across the entire stage as she rose on a scarily high platform. Then, the platform descended and she covered a banger version of Gloria Gaynor's "I Will Survive."
Up until this point, Ross's performance was solid, but what happened next proves she is the ultimate diva queen. Ross casually said "Oh, here comes my ride," as a helicopter literally came to pick up. She sat on the edge of the chopper and waved to the crowd as it ferried her away, legs still dangling from the open helicopter door. That's how you make an exit.
SAVE $80: As of Feb. 6, the Apple Watch SE 2nd Gen (GPS, 40mm) is on sale for $169 at Best Buy. This is $80 off its list price of $249.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch SE 2nd Gen (GPS) $169.00 at Best BuyWhether you frequently workout or just want something that can keep up with your day-to-day activities, a smartwatch can be a helpful investment. The Apple Watch, in particular, fits perfectly into an Apple ecosystem. While models like the Apple Watch Ultra have hefty price tags, if you're just looking for the basics, the Apple Watch SE is a great budget pick and currently enjoying a very nice discount at Best Buy.
The Apple Watch SE 2nd Gen (GPS, 40mm) is on sale for $169 at Best Buy. This is $80 off its list price of $249. Your purchase even comes with a couple of bonuses to get you started: four months free of Apple Fitness+ and up to three months for free of Apple Music.
SEE ALSO: The best smartwatch for every wristThis smartwatch boasts a variety of features to keep you motivated in your workouts or updated on your health, including a heart rate monitor, sleep tracker, advanced metrics for workouts, and safety features like Fall Detection, Crash Detection, and Emergency SOS. In our comparison of Apple Watch Series 9 vs. SE 2, Mashable's Kimberly Gedeon also notes that, "If you're more fitness-focused, and you don't mind the thicker bezels and lack of always-on display, the Watch SE is a solid choice."
Don't miss out on this excellent deal on the Apple Watch SE 2nd Gen (GPS, 40mm) at Best Buy.
If you're on the hunt for even more Apple deals, there are quite a few worth checking out right now. Alongside this Apple Watch deal, you can also save on the 10th Gen iPad right now at Best Buy. The AirPods 4, both with active noise cancelation and without, are also discounted at the moment at Amazon.
SAVE OVER $50: As of Feb. 6, Sony's WF-1000XM5 earbuds are on sale for $248 at Amazon. That's 17% off their list price of $299.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony WF-1000XM5 Earbuds $248.00 at AmazonSony has some truly excellent headphones and earbuds, but that kind of quality often comes with a pretty steep price tag. That's why it's always nice when their tech pops up in a sale, so you can save some cash while investing in high-quality headphones that'll stand the test of time. That's currently the case for one of our top picks for the best earbuds to buy in 2025, the Sony WF-1000XM5s, which are discounted at Amazon.
These earbuds are currently marked down to $248, a 17% discount from their list price of $299.99. This allows you to pocket $51.99. This deal applies to every color available as well, so you can have your pick from black, silver, or smoky pink.
SEE ALSO: For gym rats and picky audiophiles alike, these are the 7 best headphones of 2025We consider these earbuds to be the best picks for sound in our breakdown of the best earbuds to buy in 2025, noting "People who enjoy great active noise cancellation and even better sound quality will appreciate the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds — the full package." Not only that, but they also hold a spot in our list of the best noise-cancelling headphones, with Mashable's Bethany Allard saying, "These earbuds deliver a rich, well-balanced sound profile, without the weight of over-ear headphones."
Boasting excellent sound quality and noise-cancelation, this deal is well worth jumping on if you've been looking to scoop up some new earbuds. Don't miss out on this discount on the Sony WF-1000XM5s.
If you're looking for even more headphone and earbud deals, you can also save on Apple's AirPods 4 earbuds (both with active noise cancelation and without) and the Beats Studio Buds+ earbuds are also discounted right now.
If you're a Gmail user, you might have noticed the arrival of Google's AI Gemini in your inbox.
Maybe it's a welcome addition. Or maybe you're ready to throw your laptop into a sea so deep only mystery molluscs and psychedelic marine worms will hear it scream.
If you don't want "help" to write emails, you can switch it off. Credit: Mashable screenshot / GmailIf you're of the latter state, but aren't ready to feed underwater alien ecosystems with fresh tech, there's a way to disable Gemini in your Gmail, as well as your other Google platforms like Drive, Calendar, Meet, Maps, and more.
Out of pure, bubbling frustration, here's a guide to switching the damn thing off.
How to turn off Gemini in Gmail Total TimeStep 1: Open Gmail.
Step 2: Go to Settings.
It's the icon that resembles a cog.
Step 3: Click "See all settings."
Step 4: In the "General" section, scroll to "Google Workspace smart features."
Step 5: Click "Manage Workspace smart feature settings."
Credit: Mashable screenshot / GoogleStep 6: Toggle smart features on or off.
If you're looking to turn off Gemini in Gmail, toggle off "Smart features in Google Workspace." This will also turn off the AI for Drive, Calendar, Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Meet. The second toggle for "other Google products" will switch Gemini off for Maps, Wallet, Google Assistant, and the Gemini app itself.
Credit: Mashable screenshot / GoogleStep 7: Click "Save" at the bottom right of the pop-up.
If you want to turn Gemini on again in Gmail, follow the same steps. It's your life.
SAVE $20: As of Feb. 6, Amazon's Fire TV Stick 4K is on sale for $29.99. That's 40% off its list price of $49.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K $29.99 at AmazonWhen it comes to streaming your favorite shows and films, being able to enjoy them in 4K quality is a game-changer. Thankfully, accomplishing this doesn't have to break the bank. The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K can bring you high-quality streaming at a price that won't make a massive dent in your wallet. What's even better is it's currently on sale right now, so you can save more while setting yourself up with a sleek new streaming device.
The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is discounted to $29.99 right now. This is 40% off its list price of $49.99, allowing you to pocket $20. Amazon has this listed as a limited-time deal, so if you've had your eye on this streaming device you'll want to act fast to secure it at this price before it disappears.
SEE ALSO: Best streaming services: We compare Netflix, Hulu, Max, Disney+, and moreThe Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K boasts smooth streaming quality with 4K Ultra HD resolution for a crisp, vibrant picture. It also supports Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos audio to create an all-around immersive viewing experience. And if you have an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, you can even access the Game Pass library via cloud gaming, which is a great way to play something new and exciting without a console.
This limited-time deal won't last long, so grab the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K for $29.99 while the deal is still live.
If you're looking to pick up a new 4K TV to go with this 4K streaming stick, there are plenty on sale right now that are worth checking out. Over at Best Buy, you can save on models like the 65-inch LG C4 OLED and the massive 98-inch TCL Q6 4K QLED Smart TV, if you really want to go big with a new TV.
Apple's got a new app. Launched seemingly out of nowhere earlier this week, Apple Invites is a free app, available on the App Store, that lets you create colorful invites to events that you can share with friends and family.
The app is very simple to use. Choose a background, set a title and location for your event, and you can start sending it to potential guests.
You can use your own photos, or choose from Apple's predefined backgrounds. Credit: Stan Schroeder / MashableWhile the app is free to use and anyone can freely receive invites, one caveat is that you can only send invites if you have a paid iCloud+ account. This is a bummer, but it makes some sense as storing the invites in the cloud does consume storage space. Apple iCloud+ accounts start at $0.99 per month, and Apple now lists Invites as one of the benefits of subscribing to iCloud+ (others include Hide My Email, HomeKit Secure Video, and iCloud Private Relay, as well as more storage for your data).
Apple Invites: How it worksTo create a new invite, hit the "+" button in the upper right corner of the Apple Invites app. Start with adding a background; Apple lets you choose from pre-defined options which include emoji-themed, photographic, and colorful backgrounds, but you can also use a photo from your iPhone's library or take a photo with your camera, using the buttons in the top left of the "Add Background" menu.
Next, set a title for your event, choose date and time, and pick a location, which you can do by searching real world locations — and you can add an optional name for your location, which is useful if it's your house.
You can also add an event description with a 1,000 character limit, and the host's name. Finally, you can create a photo album, as well as an Apple Music playlist, and share it with participants.
It's not a real event. Please do not show up. Credit: Stan Schroeder / MashableOnce you're done, you can invite guests by creating a shareable link. And if you need to send an update related to the event to your guests — such as detailed entry instructions or the fact that all the shrimp cocktails are sadly, already gone — you can do that via the "Send a Note" button.
Apple Invites: Tips and tricksAll of the above is pretty straightforward, and I'm sure you won't have any issues creating and sharing your event. But the app does have a couple of additional features that are easy to miss.
For example, tap on an existing event in the app, and then tap on the three dots menu in the upper right corner. From there, you can duplicate the event, which is handy when you're hosting repeating events, for example a Pokémon-themed pub quiz in your basement every Wednesday.
Some advanced options are hidden in Event Settings. Credit: Stan Schroeder / MashableFor more options, hit Event Settings from the same menu. There, you can choose whether guests need your approval before they can join the event. You can also choose to only show the background image to guests after they've opened the invitation with a verified email address (maybe you don't just want anyone to see how great your basement is). For people who use a screen reader, you can provide a description of your invitation's background.
Finally, you can also cancel and delete the event, as well as pause replies (for the last time, there won't be free beer, folks, and I will not entertain any further inquiries).
There are a few other, somewhat hidden privacy options in the app, too. For example, once there's a group of guests coming, you can grant some of them the ability to invite their own guests to the event. Handy.
Sorry folks, this event is not for everyone. Credit: Stan Schroeder / MashableAlso, when you invite guests, you can create a public link that allows anyone to join the event, but you can also just invite individual people with one-off links.
Apple Invites: Customizing your notificationsWhen you're hosting events — especially if they're big, and if you're hosting more than one — things can get messy fast. Apple Invites allows you to get push notifications about events, but fortunately, it also lets you be quite granular when it comes to choosing which types of notifications you want to see.
You might want to fine tune these. Credit: Stan Schroeder / MashableTap on your profile image in the Invites app, and hit Push Notifications. From here, you can choose whether you only want to see notifications for events you're hosting, or events you're invited to.
You can also choose whether you want to see Apple's updates with recommendations, new features and tips, and offers related to the app.
Go a step back, and you'll be able to set whether you want to receive email updates about events you're hosting, or are invited to. This is unrelated to push notifications, and you can have both on or off at the same time.
Apple Invites: How to get itThis one is simple. Apple Invites is a free download at Apple's App Store. It requires iOS 18 or later, and you do need an iCloud+ account in order to send invites.
Companion filmmaker Drew Hancock hid a special easter egg for Jack Quaid that goes all the way back to 'City of Angels' in 1998.
Companion is now in theaters.
SAVE $52.50: As of Feb. 6, the MAXSHOT electric scooter is on sale for $196.50 at Amazon. This deal saves you 21% on the list price.
Opens in a new window Credit: MAXSHOT MAXSHOT Electric Scooter $196.50 at AmazonIf you've been looking for an affordable electric scooter to get you from point A to B, look no further than this latest deal. As of Feb. 6, you can find the MAXSHOT electric scooter on sale for $196.50 at Amazon, saving you 21% on list price.
The scooter boasts a 350W motor, giving you speeds of up to 19mph. And the battery life can take you up to 21 miles. Although MAXSHOT adds that this range is only under "specific conditions."
SEE ALSO: The Anker SOLIX C200 power bank is on sale for under $100 — a must-have for camping and emergenciesThe scooter can be locked and managed from an accompanying app. Just connect the scooter to see the customized speed and cruise control options. You can also see current speed and cruise control options from the LED screen on the scooter. Nice and easy.
It also boasts a dual braking system, featuring drum braking and EABS anti-lock braking. It even has a bright headlight, so you'll have good visibility at night. And if you hate clutter in your house, the e-scooter won't take up unnecessary space. It folds for easy storage in car trunks, closets, and other compact spaces.
This is a limited-time deal, so head to Amazon and save.
SAVE $150: As of Feb. 6, the Amazon eero Pro 6E is on sale for $399.99 at Amazon. That's a 27% saving on list price.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon eero Pro 6E $399.99 at AmazonIf your patchy, unreliable WiFi makes you want to throw your router out of the window, let's talk about an upgrade. You shouldn't have to suffer with laggy video calls, buffering shows, or devices that just won't connect. And you don't need to spend a fortune to get away from this either.
As of Feb. 6, you can find incredible deals on mesh router systems at Amazon. This includes a great deal on the Amazon eero Pro 6E router system. Currently, this product is reduced to $399.99, saving you 27% on list price. This discount is specific to the three-pack option, but you can find deals across all bundles.
SEE ALSO: Boost your home WiFi setup with this heavily discounted eero Max 7 mesh WiFi systemA mesh WiFi system includes a main router and two nodes (satellites) placed around your home. They work together to eliminate dead zones, providing reliable WiFi coverage all over your home.
The eero Pro 6E is a great option for a mesh router system that offers gigabit wifi speeds at an affordable price. It is backward-compatible with older eero devices, making it flexible for all home setups. The TrueMesh technology reduces dead spots and dropped signals, keeping your smart home running smoothly even when you’re away.
Not to mention, you can enjoy strong coverage of up to 6,000 sq. ft and the ability to connect over 100 devices. The setup doesn't require any overly complicated instructions either. It can be done in minutes by using the eero app.
Move fast, as this is a limited-time deal at Amazon.
While you should let your lover know you care every single day, Valentine's Day is a chance to go above and beyond to make that special someone feel extra special.
Flowers and chocolate will always have their place as Valentine's Day gifts, and are certainly nothing to sneeze at. However, if you're looking for a gift to properly spoil your significant other, give them something to brag about. Is your partner addicted to their Apple Watch? Could they use an elegant option to carry around their Kindle, wallet, and keys? Do they deserve an optimised, luxurious night's sleep?
SEE ALSO: Sexy Valentine's Day gifts guaranteed to spice things upIf you want to ensure that they remember this Valentine's Day for years to come, you may want to think a bit bigger. Here are four luxurious yet affordable Valentine's Day gifts to help show your partner that they're priceless.
Bellroy Classic Watch Strap Credit: BellroyA watch is a classic gift, however practicality has prompted many to turn away from traditional timepieces in favour of multifunctional smartwatches. This doesn't mean these devices can't still look and feel luxurious, though. If your partner is addicted to their Apple Watch, consider gifting them a well-made leather strap to elevate their look.
Bellroy's Classic Watch Strap is made from smooth, water-resistant leather, and distinguishes itself with its tuck-away strap. The end slides through the stainless steel buckle to comfortably hide between the wearer's wrist and strap, keeping it neatly in place. This means there isn't any fiddling around with band keepers which inevitably slide off, leaving the end of the strap sticking out in an unsightly manner. The leather is also unobtrusively embossed with Bellroy's attractive owl logo right by the buckle, which is a lovely little detail.
The Classic Watch Strap is available in four different colours and two different sizes, so be sure to double check which option will fit your loved one's Apple Watch model. If you're unsure, try sneaking a peek at the back of the device when they take it off to charge.
Opens in a new window Credit: Bellroy Bellroy Classic Watch Strap Shop Now MAISON de SABRÉ Medium Flap Bag Credit: MAISON de SABRÉBoasting a structured, boxy shape, MAISON de SABRÉ Medium Flap Bag will compliment practically any outfit, offering enough room for daily essentials like e-readers, smartphones, and earbuds while still remaining compact and stylish. This beautifully constructed yet practical handbag comes with two interchangeable straps, allowing your loved one to carry it on their shoulder or across their body according to their own preference, and has a magnetic enclosure for convenience. There's even a handy external slip pocket, which is useful for when your partner wants quick and easy access to their phone.
The Medium Flap Bag is also made of deliciously supple European leather which feels so satisfying to touch that it may entice your loved one to just keep stroking it like a cat.
If you want to give your gift an extra personal touch, you can have the Medium Flap Bag monogrammed. MAISON de SABRÉ will emboss up to two English letters or numbers on the detachable key bell free of charge, including the symbols "." "&" and "♡". You could fill the bag with your lover's favourite chocolates as well for an even more extravagant surprise — just make sure they're properly wrapped so they don't stain the blue twill interior.
Opens in a new window Credit: MAISON de SABRÉ MAISON de SABRÉ Medium Flap Bag Shop Now Musubi Kiln Isshin Brown and Red Tokoname Japanese Teapot Credit: Musubi KilnIf your loved one loves tea, an elegant yet practical teapot is unlikely to go wrong. A well-made teapot can distinctly elevate the daily ritual of drinking tea, helping to ensure it's a meditative moment of calm.
The Isshin Teapot is a quality piece of teaware that pays beautiful attention to detail. Created in Tokoname, one of Japan's six most distinguished sites of ceramic production, the Isshin Teapot's well-fitted lid helps it to retain heat for much longer than you'd expect. Its carefully placed spout is resistant to overflowing, while the inbuilt ceramic strainer eliminates the danger of rust, deftly keeping tea leaves out of your cup without blocking your pour.
You can also pair the Isshin Teapot with a couple of teacups, its relatively neutral red and brown colour matching well with any you might choose. The gorgeous blue Moist Chrysanthemum Shape Yunomi Japanese Teacup has an inviting matte finish complimenting its smooth ridges, while the hand painted Tosen Kiln Sakura Kiyomizu Ware Japanese Tea Cup's white base allows the colour of the tea to shine through, encouraging drinkers to slow down and enjoy each sip.
This gift can also act as the promise of quality time together, where you and your loved one can sit and enjoy each other's company while enjoying a soothing cup of sencha.
Opens in a new window Credit: Musubi Kiln Musubi Kiln Isshin Brown and Red Tokoname Japanese Teapot Shop Now Sheet Society Eve Linen Sheets Credit: Sheet SocietySilk sheets certainly sound sumptuous for an elevated night's sleep. Unfortunately, their luxury is often offset by their lack of practicality, as they can stain easily and require delicate care. As such, gifting someone silk sheets is a bit like giving them a puppy: lovely in theory, but you may just be burdening the recipient with a lot more work.
Linen is a far more durable option, yet still equally as luxurious as silk. Breathable and hypoallergenic, linen sheets are also suitable for people with sensitive skin, and regulate temperature so they can be used all year round. You never have to worry about ironing them either, as the natural, crumpled look simply adds to their charm.
Sheet Society's Eve Linen collection is made from 100 percent linen, and while it will only get softer with wear, it's already comfortable straight out of the box. The sheets are pre washed so you can start using them straight away, with quilt covers, fitted sheets, flat sheets, pillowcases, and European pillowcases all available separately so you can mix and match colours to style the perfect bed. The website even has a bed builder tool that you'll probably spend way too long playing with.
Sewn with durable yet lightweight linen, Sheet Society's pillowcases have a deep lip that is around twice as wide as standard, preventing your pillow from sliding out while you sleep. The thick elastic and deep sides on the fitted sheets keep the fabric firmly in place, while the quilt covers' invisible zip ensures there's no unsightly gaping.
Opens in a new window Credit: Sheet Society Sheet Society Eve Linen Sheets Shop NowIn need of a more specific gift? You're in luck. We have the Valentine's Day gift guide for you.
SAVE $120: As of Feb. 6, the iRobot Roomba Q0120 is on sale for $129.99 at Amazon. This is a 48% saving on the list price.
Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot iRobot Roomba Q0120 $129.99 at AmazonWe'll always be shouting about robot vacuums here at Mashable. These helpful devices have become all the rage, and it's no secret why.
If you've been shopping around for something for a while, the name Roomba won't be new to you. And as of Feb. 6, we've found you an incredible deal at Amazon on the iRobot Roomba Q0120, now down to just $129.99 (the lowest it has ever been).
SEE ALSO: Looking for an affordable robot vacuum? Get the Lefant M210 for its lowest price ever at Amazon.But don't worry, even with such a low price, you're still getting a top-of-the-range vacuuming experience. This model has a three-stage cleaning system that delivers customizable suction for carpets and hard floors. It comes with smart navigation that cleans in neat rows, dodges furniture, and steers clear of stairs or any other obstacles in your house. And for those hard-to-reach corners and edges, the Edge-Sweeping Brush won't miss any dust build-up.
Controlled from the iRobot Home App, you can do things like schedule cleans while you're away from home, check to see where it has cleaned, and more. And with up to 120 minutes of cleaning on one charge, if it doesn't manage your whole house, it'll return itself to the charging station to reboot.
This is a limited-time deal at Amazon, so if you don't want to miss out, move fast.
SAVE $150: As of Feb. 6, the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE (128GB, unlocked) is available at Amazon for $499.99 (regularly $649.99).
Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy S24 FE $499.99 at AmazonIn the market for a flagship-worthy smartphone without spending flagship-level cash? The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE just got a $150 price cut at Amazon — bringing it down to $499.99. For a phone that packs a 50MP camera, AI-enhanced performance, and a stunning 6.7-inch 120Hz AMOLED display, this is easily one of the best Android phone deals of the year.
Let's talk camera power. The 50MP main shooter delivers razor-sharp photos and crisp 8K videos, while Night Portrait mode makes low-light shots look effortlessly professional. This phone punches way above its weight when capturing concerts, cityscapes, or a great selfie.
SEE ALSO: Beats Studio Buds+ are $50 off at Amazon — upgrade your earbuds for lessThe screen is solid, too. At 6.7 inches, this Full HD+ AMOLED panel runs at a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, making scrolling, gaming, and video playback buttery smooth. And with a peak brightness of 1,900 nits, you won't squint at your phone on sunny days.
Under the hood, the Galaxy Swon't is powered by Samsung's AI-driven One UI 6.1 on Android 14, optimizing battery life and performance, as well as Samsung's photo editing. Speaking of battery life, the 4,700mAh battery easily lasts all day and supports fast charging, so you're never tethered to a wall for long.
This unlocked version works on all carriers, making it a perfect upgrade if you're on Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, or an MVNO like Mint Mobile.
Near high-end features for $499.99? You'll be hard-pressed to find a better deal. But at this price, it won't be in stock at Amazon for long — so if you've been waiting to upgrade, now's the time to pull the trigger.
TL;DR: Grab a refurbished M1 MacBook Air with 8GB RAM and 128GB SSD for $514.99 — powerful, lightweight, and ultra-efficient.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Refurbished 13.3-inch 2020 Apple MacBook Air (M1, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD) $514.99Grab a refurbished M1 MacBook Air with 8GB RAM and 128GB SSD for just $514.99 — powerful, lightweight, and ultra-efficient.
What to expect from your refurbished M1 MacBook Air:M1 chip with an 8-core CPU, designed to make multitasking smooth and faster than previous models
8-core GPU handles graphics-heavy tasks with top-notch performance for creative work and entertainment
13.3-inch Retina display with 2560 x 1600 resolution offers stunning color accuracy and crisp details
Fanless design means silent operation while running efficiently under heavy workloads
Up to 18 hours of battery life keeps you going without constantly searching for an outlet
WiFi 6 and Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports offer fast connectivity for accessories and external displays
Refurbished in grade-A condition with minimal to no signs of use, plus a 30-day parts and labor warranty
A portable powerhouse at a fraction of the cost, this refurbished 2020 13.3-inch Apple MacBook Air is available now for $514.99 (reg. $1,499).
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Complaining about sports gambling in the year 2025 feels as pointless as yelling at a cloud. Shout, whine, fret all you want; it's there, and you can't move it.
But I'm here to say — yes, in the year 2025 — that legalized gambling has kind of ruined sports.
It wasn't always this way. Legalized sports gambling at the state level was made possible via a landmark 2018 Supreme Court decision. Since then, the U.S. has been speedrunning its way through all the complications that come with the sudden advent of legal wagering.
That's not to say I suddenly dislike sports. Ahead of Sunday's Super Bowl, it's worth noting that I'm more tapped into the NFL now than I have been at any other point in my adult life. I'm really looking forward to this rematch between the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles. (Go Birds.) But legal gambling has shifted how we consume sports in ways both obvious and insidious, and I think it's worth nothing the trickle-down effects that's had on fans and fandom.
First things first: It is impossible to avoid gambling and its many tentacles. I wrote in 2023 how gambling ads had become the scourge of sports podcasts, and it's only continued apace. The NFL (and pretty much ever other league) partners with sportsbooks, broadcasters have integrated gambling into their TV product, and the media covers gambling stories to no end.
SEE ALSO: Endless gambling ads have become the scourge of sports podcasts"The proverbial ship has sailed," former American Gaming Association (AGA) executive and sports betting consultant Sara Sloane told Sportico in a recent article. "There's not much daylight (anymore) between gaming and the sports industry."
Listen to a sports podcast, watch a sports talk show, read an article in the sports section — there is simply no avoiding gambling. Sorry, but that sucks. Sports should be fun, and gambling is not fun. Gambling is basically math by another name. I want to hear about why the Chiefs or Eagles will win the game, not why the Eagles at +1.5 is a reasonable bet. I care if an expert thinks Saquon Barkley will be able to dominate again, even though he's Kansas City's primary focus on defense. I'd rather experts use podcast minutes, column inches, or broadcast time to explain why they believe that than telling me whether they think betters should take the over on Barkley's rushing yards.
This is a gross oversimplification, but the whole sports landscape has morphed into your annoying friend who won't stop talking about his fantasy team — except it's everyone talking about gambling. The numbers back it up. The AGA estimated Americans will wager about $1.39 billion with legal sportsbooks on the 2025 Super Bowl. Sportsbooks spent even more on NFL ads this year. And sportsbooks, in total, made more than $13 billion in gross revenue last year. That number is only going up.
it's nice when they break up all the gambling ads with a problem gambling helpline ad
— skáld (@danglinghemmie.bsky.social) February 2, 2025 at 9:44 PMFollowing the 2018 decision, gambling companies followed the tech playbook. Upon legalization, they flooded the market with ads and promos to acquire customers. Suddenly, gambling was cheap and everywhere, like Ubers back in the day. The customers followed, and now sports gambling has its own little ecosystem, especially online. Sports gambling influencers are everywhere, promising winning picks while making heaps of cash on affiliate partnerships and new customer sign-ups. Search something as asinine as "sports bet," and you'll see countless posts about "guaranteed winners" or a long winning streak. I've seen countless TikTok gambling trends, including one where folks try to "climb" a betting "ladder," hitting numerous consecutive bets to turn a small initial wager into a huge payout. It's shocking how sports gambling can feel so... seamless. Back in the day, you had to travel to Las Vegas to place a legal wager, or you had to find a bookie and risk it. But now you can see a post from some influencer, pull up an app, and wager your very real money — all in about 30 seconds. It feels no different than checking the weather.
If all that sounds dangerous, it's because it is. Set everything else aside, and legalized gambling has already caused countless major scandals in the sports world. Ex-NBA player Jontay Porter pleaded guilty in a fraud case where he'd pull out of games to help co-conspirators win bets. NBA player Terry Rozier is under investigation as a part of the same probe. Numerous NFL players have been suspended for gambling violations. This week, MLB fired an umpire who shared a betting account with a friend who gambled on baseball. These are all black marks on the major leagues, but clearly the money they make from gambling carries more weight than any such issues.
The bigger problem is that we have a slow growing poison in the veins of young Americans thanks to sports gambling. These companies are truly evil
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And that's not to gloss over the fact that regular folks are losing money gambling. Casinos don't have a habit of losing money in the long-term. NBC News reported that calls to gambling addiction hotlines are up, with an influx of largely young, male callers reaching out about sports betting.
"We have every reason to believe the growth of online sports betting is a major contributing factor to the increase in gambling problems," Keith Whyte, executive director of the National Council on Problem Gambling, told NBC.
If you like sports and you're of gambling age, you've almost certainly seen some old high school acquaintance posting their "winning picks" on Facebook. And we all know that once a trend hits FB, it's so pervasive it's stale.
I don't want to seem like a total prude. I've (sparingly) gambled on sports since legalization. It can be fun, so long as it's money you're fine never seeing again. Nearly a decade ago, as a young reporter covering sports business, I found it stupid that sports gambling wasn't legalized amid daily fantasy's rise. But I didn't foresee how much sport's landscape would shift amid the sudden legalization and ensuing gold rush. I didn't foresee how gambling would flow insidiously like trickling water into all parts of the sports world. I thought it would be a fun side street in the sports conversation, not the central highway. I should have known better: People have money on the line.
I know I'm in the minority. America has taken to sports gambling like fish to water. If people weren't tuning in, reading, or listening to gambling content, then the product would change. If people weren't betting, FanDuel and DraftKings would be out of business. That's why this piece is part of Don't @ Me series on unpopular opinions.
I may be yelling at a cloud, but I can't help but try to let a little sunlight in.
Eva Victor has made an astonishing debut feature — writing, directing, and starring in the jarringly humane comedy Sorry, Baby.
The Sundance buzz on this one was strong from the start, with critics cheering its unique voice. Then Victor won the Waldo Salt Screenwriting Award out of the fest, and the film got acquired by A24, the cool boutique distribution studio behind such hits as Lady Bird, Everything Everywhere All At Once, and Midsommar. But don't let the prestige that already surrounds this Sundance selection fool you. Sorry, Baby isn't an esoteric arthouse offering, but a gently sensational movie about being harmed and healing, made all the more remarkable because it's Victor's first film.
Before she was a multihyphenate moviemaker, Victor was making her mark online with hilarious viral videos, like her satirizing of Straight Pride Month complaints or doing a spot-on impression of a glamorous woman who definitely didn't murder her husband. In these videos, Victor is scalpel-sharp in parodying archetypes of conservative hysteria and film noir with equal ease. Yet her movie doesn't share this madcap energy — and wisely so! That brand of humor might get grating when stretched to a feature-length format, or more likely it'd undercut the serious subject matter that is at the heart of Sorry, Baby.
Instead, Victor carefully calibrates a tone that is all at once bracingly honest and charmingly offbeat.
What's Sorry, Baby about? (Trigger warning ahead.)The log line out of Sundance was vexingly vague: "Something bad happened to Agnes. But life goes on… for everyone around her, at least." However, having seen the film, I can appreciate how this vagueness speaks to the filmmaker's careful tone in addressing its "something bad."
More a trigger warning than a spoiler: Agnes (Victor) has been sexually assaulted by a trusted acquaintance. This event plays at the center of the film, but is treated less like a shocking reveal and more like the gentle peeling back of an onion. Built in three chapters, Sorry, Baby begins near the end, "The Year With the Baby." Years after the assault, Agnes is being visited by her best friend and grad school roommate Lydie (Blink Twice's Naomi Ackie), and the two have a cozy intimacy that allows them to speak in a shorthand we can witness but not fully understand. What's clear is that while Lydie has blossomed — building a life of her own with a partner and soon-to-be-baby — Agnes has become stuck in a reclusive rut. The cause for this is delicately unveiled in chapter two, "The Year with the Bad Thing."
In this extended flashback, Agnes is a grad student, dedicated to her thesis under the tutelage of a trusted professor (Louis Cancelmi). The bad thing happens off-screen, with the camera waiting outside the house for Agnes as the sky goes from day to night. Then, she will come home to Lydie and talk out what happened, grasping to understand it even as the words flow. Still, the word "rape" feels too big and maybe too concrete. So, even as they go to urgent care, the word is not one they choose, but rather is thrown at them by a bored male doctor.
While all of this sounds grim, Victor weaves absurdist humor throughout, recognizing the deeply ridiculous moments that exist even in the midst of trauma. Through this complexity, she also showcases moments of grace, breadcrumbs that lead us to how a person might pull through a bad thing to find something beyond it.
A subtle yet sublime example of this balance occurs in a chapter set years after her assault. Driving away from the grad school where she is now a teacher, she pulls over on the side of the road, her body rattled with a panic attack over a revelation that's hard to handle. A bald and burly man with a grimace as wide as his neck shoves his face to her car window, bellowing at her that she can't park here. But once he sees her hyperventilating, his barking resolve melts.
In a perfect bit of casting, John Carroll Lynch, who's played a suspected serial killer in Zodiac and a gentle gynecologist in Babes, switches from one gear to the other in the blink of an eye. His tone softens and warms as this stranger coaches Agnes through a breathing exercise, then he asks if she wants a sandwich. It's a sweet but bizarre thing to say. A moment later, they sit before his sandwich shop, and there's not only context but an elegant and sincere moment of two strangers connecting. This is what makes Sorry, Baby extraordinary, how Victor seamlessly connects empathy and anxiety.
Sorry, Baby masterfully blends tones and a top-notch cast.The film begins and ends with "The Year with the Baby," centering on two pivotal visits from Lydie, who gently nudges Agnes to consider if her life is one she wants or has surrendered to. She lives in the same house they rented as graduate students, stayed at the same school, and associates with the same group of friends, even though they seem to have outgrown each other. But Lydie is her ride-or-die, even though she's moved away from the quaint New England college town to New York City. And through her encouragement, Agnes begins to find her way out of the rut she's dug.
In between these times, Victor gives herself a role that's far from the vanity project stuff of many a first-time male director at Sundance. Her character is not some effortlessly charming rogue, just waiting for the world — or some hot A-list actress — to catch on. Agnes is deeply awkward, offering a hook-up to a open-hearted neighbor (Lady Bird's Lucas Hedges) then commenting carelessly on how his penis looks while soft. (He is understandably mortified, albeit momentarily.) In these socially awkward moments of naked honesty (literal and metaphorical in this case), Victor allows us into the intimate world of a woman lost. Her underbelly is soft, and her impulses can be weird and messy. And in that, it's impossible not to fall for Victor's Sorry, Baby as it embraces the mess that is growing from hurt to healing.
Building this world with her is Ackie, as a bestie with a sharp eye and sharper tongue to any who'd cross her friends. Hedges is heart-wrenching as a gentle would-be beau. Lynch is electrifying in a small but pivotal role. Kelly McCormack, who stood out as a no-shit-taking shortstop in A League of Their Own, brings a neurotic buzz as a frenemy who brims with professional jealousy. I could go on, as every supporting player from the uncaring doctor (Marc Carver) to a pressing lawyer follows the shifting tone of Victor's screenplay with aplomb.
Collectively, they all build a story that's unique yet familiar, and a world we know but with a twist of wry humor that makes its rough edges a bit more bearable. So in the end, as the meaning of Victor's title falls into place, the effect is a bit devastating, but ultimately cathartic. Bittersweet, brilliant, and heartwarmingly funny, Sorry, Baby is a movie that is sure to find an audience beyond Sundance. And not just because A24 is a master of marketing offbeat cinema, but because Victor has a voice that is strong, strange, and demands to be heard.
Sorry, Baby was reviewed out of the 2025 Sundance Film Festival.
Clean Slate is what happens when TV arithmetic adds up. Produced by two TV legends, Norman Lear and Laverne Cox, this Black family sitcom from Prime Video brings together the former's sensibilities — as seen in classic hits like All in the Family, Maude, and Good Times — with the four-time Emmy-nominated Orange Is the New Black star's passion for trans representation, and distinctive blend of sass and heart.
Before his passing in December of 2024, Lear served as executive producer on this Prime Video sitcom, which Cox not only headlines but also created alongside Dan Ewen (Dear Santa) and Clean Slate co-star George Wallace. Together, they've crafted an Alabama-set family comedy in which generations clash, but in a way that makes for more laughs than tension. Think Archie Bunker and his "Meathead" son-in-law Michael of All in the Family, but if at least one of them had gone to therapy.
Clean Slate centers on a father and daughter reconnecting after years of estrangement. Laverne Cox and George Wallace co-star as daughter and father in "Clean Slate." Credit: Prime VideoHarry Slate (Wallace) is a familiar figure on family sitcoms. Living in a cozy American small town, he's a hard-working, blue-collared dad, who knows his neighbors, loving some — like the no-nonsense churchgoer Miss Ella (Family Matters' Telma Hopkins) — and loathing others — like the hillbilly-nerd next door, Miguel (Phillip Garcia). He is proud of his work as a car wash proprietor, offering services to his neighbors with a big smile and a vintage convertible brandishing his logo alongside its pristine paint job. But there's a hole in Harry's life where his family once was.
After the death of his wife twenty-some years before, his teenager left their Alabama home for parts unknown, and hasn't been in touch since. Harry is elated when an email arrives, promising his prodigal child is coming home. But this proud papa is expecting the son who played football, not the "fancy lady" (Cox) who appears on his porch with a suitcase and a strained smile. Then she says, "Dad, I'm your daughter, Desiree....I've always been Desiree."
Stunned but welcoming, Harry invites in the daughter he never really knew, and through 10 episodes, they both grow in understanding and acceptance of each other.
Cultures clash in Clean Slate. Laverne Cox and George Wallace co-star as daughter and father in "Clean Slate." Credit: Prime Video23 years before, Desiree left behind her Southern small town for big New York City dreams. She became a woman, glamorous and educated, and an aspiring gallerista. But when the funding falls through for her gallery (blame an unreliable beau), she comes home to regroup. And she's bringing with her metropolitan expectations, queer culture, and the language of therapy. Meanwhile, Harry hasn't changed a thing about the family home in all these years, sitting amid rotting furniture and memories fading like framed photos in the Alabama sun. He's confounded when Desiree explains she needs to relax her vagus nerve or offers him chia seed pudding, but is supportive as best he can be. They also set up a pronoun jar, which he pays into anytime he misgenders or deadnames his child. ("I'm gonna retire off this," Desiree quips dryly.)
In a smart move, Clean Slate's culture class hits on several fronts. There's the generational divide made crystal-clear by Desiree's embrace of therapy and Harry's confusion over the coping tools she speaks about. There's a big city versus small town chasm, with Desiree prone to rolling her eyes over her father's idea of class, like a "Last Supper of Soul" painting featuring classic Black musicians like Ray Charles but not — as Desiree notes — Grammy-winning diva Beyoncé. Then there's Harry's exposure to queer culture through his daughter and her friends, which includes her closeted local bestie, Louis (D.K. Uzoukwu). But this cultural exchange is a two-way street.
Revisiting her past means Desiree gets a fresh perspective on the Southern charms she'd left behind, like a fair full of games and old but endearing prizes. Things she may have remembered fondly but were tainted by the hiding of herself she felt compelled to perform are now rediscovered with child-like glee, and this time with her dad really seeing her.
More than a joyful exploration of parent-child love, Harry and Desiree's relationship provides a mirror and model to friends of the family Mack (Jay Wilkison) and Opal (Norah Murphy). He is a formerly incarcerated single dad who works devotedly at Harry's carwash. She is his young and brilliant daughter, who has ambitions of being "the next Jeff Bezos." For the former, Desiree is enchanting, a possible love interest, while for the young girl, she is a role model for getting out of the shadow of your father and paving your own way. But as Clean Slate moves through episodes, it's becomes clear you could do the latter without leaving your dad in the dust.
Trans representation, but not queer utopia, is presented in Clean Slate. Telma Hopkins and George Wallace play neighbors in "Clean Slate." Credit: Prime VideoThis series about family love and acceptance feels radical in a time in which Republicans are demonizing trans and queer people through propaganda and absurd executive orders. Where Desiree feared rejection by her father and former community, she is instead largely embraced — even if it takes her dad some time to adjust to the "pronoun sitch" (as Opal calls it). She reconnects with old friends and makes new ones. But in the fourth episode, during a visit to church, she is confronted by a bigoted preacher.
Desiree is anxious about going back to a place where "eternal damnation" was promised for embracing her truth. To attract less attention, she dresses "conservatively," abandoning the bright colors and snug-fitting yet chic dresses she favors for a beige two-piece, a long skirt and blouse. As soon as she arrives, Miss Ella ushers her to the front to sit with her and her girlfriends. But after service, the pastor, who is quick to hug his female congregants, forces a handshake on Desiree, greeting her as he does the men. Seeing Desiree is wounded by the misgendering gesture, Miss Ella will not let that stand. She calls her "girlfriends of grace" together for a protest, and urges Harry to fight for his daughter too. He will in his way, and things will get messy.
While keeping the buoyancy of the sitcom tone — not falling into "very special episode" seriousness of the '90s — Clean Slate offers an accessible guide to allyship. While her loved ones want to make a big show of support in protest and vandalism, that's not what Desiree wants. And how they hear her and act in response is a beautiful climax to the episode, and that it happens so early in the season makes it hit even harder. Because it shouldn't be an extraordinary thing to show up for those we love. Clean Slate shows how easily we can do that in our everyday lives, and how extraordinary that can feel to those we do it for. Having said that, the pastor and this plotline comes back in the finale. And the series climax is divine.
TL;DR: Automate your vacation rental management with Mashvisor, a platform that syncs bookings, optimizes pricing, and centralizes guest messages — lifetime access available for $39.
Opens in a new window Credit: Mashvisor Mashvisor Vacation Rental Manager: Lifetime Subscription $39.00Managing a vacation rental sounds great — until you’re juggling double bookings, tracking messages from multiple apps, and trying to set the perfect price while staying competitive.
If your Airbnb, Vrbo, or Booking.com listing is starting to feel like a full-time job, it’s time to simplify the process with Mashvisor Vacation Rental Manager. Get a lifetime subscription on sale for just $39.
Mashvisor consolidates everything into one easy-to-use platform, helping you manage reservations, set pricing, and communicate with guests without constantly switching between apps. The Channel Manager syncs availability across Airbnb, Vrbo, Expedia, and other platforms in real time, preventing scheduling conflicts. No more worrying about double bookings or updating calendars manually.
Pricing can make or break your rental success, and Mashvisor’s Dynamic Pricing feature does the heavy lifting for you. It analyzes market trends and adjusts your rates automatically, helping you stay competitive without having to track fluctuations yourself. Plus, you can build your own direct booking website to accept reservations without losing a cut to third-party platforms.
Guest communication is another time drain, but Mashvisor’s Unified Inbox centralizes messages from all platforms so you never miss an important inquiry. It also helps automate key interactions, making guest management smoother from check-in to check-out.
For property owners looking to save time and increase earnings, Mashvisor is a game-changer. Get lifetime access to Mashvisor Vacation Rental Manager for just $39 and make short-term rental management easier than ever.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
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