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TL;DR: Watch South Africa vs. United States in the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup for free on Disney+ Hotstar. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

We’re now into the second stage of the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup and it’s been a great tournament so far. This year sees the debut of the new Super 8s format where the eight qualifying teams will be divided into two groups of four. Each team will play the others in their group once, and the top two teams from each of these groups progress to the semi-finals.

The first up in group two is South Africa and the United States.

If you want to watch South Africa vs. United States in the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is South Africa vs. United States?

South Africa vs. United States in the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup starts at 10:30 a.m. ET / 3:30 p.m. BST on June 19. This fixture takes place at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in North Sound, Antigua.

How to watch South Africa vs. United States for free

Smartphone users in India can watch the 2024 Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup for free on Disney+ Hotstar, including the latest fixture between South Africa and the United States.

While this free content is technically geo-restricted to India, anyone from around the world can access this free live stream by using a VPN. VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in India, meaning you can access this free content on the Disney+ Hotstar app from anywhere in the world.

Access free T20 Cricket World Cup live streams by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in India

4. Download the Disney+ Hotstar mobile app

5. Watch South Africa vs. United States in the 2024 T20 Cricket World Cup for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

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 free live streams without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch select games before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for Disney+ Hotstar?

ExpressVPN is the best service for accessing live sport on Disney+ Hotstar, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries including India

• Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

• Fast connection speeds

• 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 also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Watch South Africa vs. United States in the 2024 T20 World Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

SAVE 38%: The Amazon Fire TV 50-inch 4-Series 4K UHD is just $279.99 for Prime members with code PRIME50. That's a $170 discount off the normal price of $449.99. Non-Prime members can also get the TV on sale for $329.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV 50-inch 4-Series 4K UHD $279.99 at Amazon
$449.99 Save $170.00 Prime members use code PRIME50 at checkout Get Deal

Many of us have settled for convenience when we should be demanding quality. If you've been streaming your favorite shows on a tiny smartphone screen or watching summer Hollywood hits on a subpar tablet, it's time for an upgrade. Thanks to today's deal at Amazon, your shows could look better than ever for a fraction of the price.

As of June 19, the Amazon Fire TV 50-inch 4-Series 4K UHD is on sale for Prime members for just $279.99, down from the usual price of $449.99. That's a 38% discount or a savings of $170. To score this sale price, enter promo code PRIME50 at checkout. This sale price for Prime members is the lowest price we've ever seen for this TV. If you're not an Amazon Prime member, you can still cash in on the sale price of $329.99. That's a savings of $120.

If you're not an Amazon Prime member, you can grab a yearly membership for $139 or you can start a free 30-day trial to see if Prime is right for you. With Amazon Prime Day coming up in July, it's the perfect time to sign up.

SEE ALSO: The best time to buy a TV: A guide to the times of year that you'll find the best TV deals

If you're not looking for a giant 65- or 70-inch TV, the Amazon Fire TV 50-inch 4-Series is a great mid-size option, especially given its lower price point. The TV uses 4K Ultra HD to offer great picture quality when watching your favorite shows and movies.

It also comes with a Fire TV Alexa voice remote, which means you can ask Alexa to pick up on the episode you last paused. If you're tuned in while getting ready in the morning, you can also ask Alexa what the weather will be like to plan your wardrobe accordingly.

You'll find three HDMI ports, one USB-C port, and an ethernet port on the Fire TV for easy connection to all essentials. Plus, Amazon is tossing in a free 6-month subscription to MGM+ so you'll have plenty to stream on your new TV this summer.

Instead of watching your summer favorites on a tiny smartphone screen, upgrade to the 50-inch Fire TV 4-Series, on sale for Prime members for just $279.99. Say goodbye to squinting through subtitles from here on out.

Just days before its 156th anniversary in 2021, President Joe Biden signed a bill making Juneteenth, which marks the true end of slavery, an official federal holiday.

On July Fourth, the nation will celebrate its independence that began in 1776. Across the country, Americans, many with no ancestral connection to early colonists, will watch firework displays, march in parades, and proudly wear red, white, and blue star-spangled outfits.

As current Americans, we share pride in our country’s history and emulate the joy and sense of freedom felt by early colonists. But, on that jubilant day, enslaved Black people could not celebrate freedom. Slavery didn’t officially end until the signing of The Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863. And in Texas, it didn’t end until the announcement reached Galveston on June 19, 1865.

Black people in Texas were bound to plantations and lived for 900 more days as slaves compared to those who got the news on time. For many, “Juneteenth” signifies the true emancipation day from slavery. It is also called “Freedom Day” — the day all slaves were granted their freedom. It was a day for celebration.

As celebrations online and off commence, here are four things you should know about this important day in American history.

1. It’s a relatively new federal holiday, but was recognized in 49 states before that.

Prior to its federal recognition, which means federal employees get a paid day off, D.C. and every state but one already commemorated Juneteenth in some way. Not all of those states gave a paid day off. The paid federal holiday could encourage more private employers — and states — to follow suit.

At least 28 states and the District of Columbia legally observe Juneteenth, which has its own red, white, and blue flag, as a paid holiday. Juneteenth has been a paid state holiday in Texas since 1980.

In 2020, corporations like Best Buy, Nike, and Target took the lead in making Juneteenth a paid holiday for their employees, and a growing list of other companies are following their lead. The governmental and corporate change came after a summer of protesting police violence against Black people.

The fight for a national holiday gained momentum as many more people agreed that Juneteenth deserved its proper place in American history.

Juneteenth activist, Opal Lee from Houston, Texas was one of the strongest voices pushing the measure forward. At 89 years old, Lee walked 2.5 miles in a variety of states — to symbolize the more than two and a half years it took for news of emancipation to reach Galveston — over about four months, starting in Fort Worth, Texas and ending in Washington, D.C. in January 2017 to encourage lawmakers to make Juneteenth a national holiday.

She also netted 1.6 million signatures on a Change.org petition to move the needle. Other advocate groups formed for the same purpose. This includes the Juneteenth Foundation, which hosts an annual Freedom Festival and aims "to celebrate the excellence of Black culture and freedom."

Tweet may have been deleted

It took over 15 years to establish Martin Luther King Jr. Day as the eleventh federal holiday and close to another 15 years for all states to embrace it, so many were concerned gaining a twelfth federal holiday would take some time. The journey to make Juneteenth an official national holiday has come to an end, but for some, the designation is long overdue.

2. It’s the longest running emancipation celebration for African Americans.

Juneteenth was created by former slaves and passed down to each new generation. In 1872, Rev. Jack Yates, a Baptist minister and former slave, led an initiative to buy 10 acres of land in Houston to create a designated area for Juneteenth celebrations. Called Emancipation Park, Black people gathered there to commemorate Freedom Day as the segregated city prevented them from using public parks.

Through migration, people began to celebrate the holiday in many states outside of Texas. On June 19, Black communities celebrate with many of the same traditions as those marking the Fourth of July.

Candice Foster, from Omaha, Nebraska, says at least three generations in her family have celebrated Juneteenth. “My neighborhood gets together and we have block parties, parades, and we have a Black history museum that we visit,” the insurance specialist says.

"Juneteenth is like a Black family reunion."

Melorra Green, a native of Memphis, Tennessee, works to support San Francisco's annual celebration in her role as the co-executive director of the African American Art & Culture Complex. She says the holiday reminds her of family.

“Juneteenth is like a Black family reunion. I remember in Memphis it was the one time you could see multiple families come together to play, laugh, and, sometimes, cry,” she says.

3. Food is a big part of the celebration.

Families gather on Juneteenth to celebrate with parades and block parties, but also with food. For Juneteenth celebrations, Black people revisit their stories of resilience during barbecues featuring red food and drinks, which represent perseverance.

This includes red hot link sausages, watermelon, red velvet cake, and red-tinted hibiscus tea. Some also believe that red is associated with West African food and religious traditions that traveled with slaves across the Atlantic Ocean.

4. It took 155 years and a social justice movement to gain national attention.

Sadly, many people in the country had never heard of Juneteenth until recent years. In the midst of a pandemic and the fights for racial justice after the murder of George Floyd, the Juneteenth celebration of 2020 gained national attention.

“We should acknowledge Juneteenth as American history, not just Black history.”

Although it was celebrated in the South and throughout the Midwest continuously, Freedom Day went mostly unrecognized nationally until former President Trump was harshly criticized for scheduling a rally on the same day in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where an entire Black town was wiped out by a racial massacre in 1921. This series of events encouraged more people to learn about the history of slavery and its continual impact on the lives of all Americans.

“We should acknowledge Juneteenth as American history, not just Black history,” says Cammie Jones, executive director of community engagement and diversity, equity, and inclusion at Barnard College. But, the Texas native goes on to say that recognizing the day is not enough.

SEE ALSO: How whitewashed is TikTok? Let Kahlil Greene break it down for you.

“The holiday has become a point in the year where people are acknowledging in some capacity what has happened in our country. But, I hope it doesn’t stop or start on Juneteenth. It should continue. We should continue to figure out what liberation can look like. It shouldn’t stop or start at this day,” she says.

What can we still learn from Juneteenth?

Jones also suggests using Juneteenth as a starting point to learn more about systemic racism, and how you can play a role in ending it.

“Slavery is over and you may not still see people picking cotton in a field, but there are definitely forms of systemic oppression that are still around to this day in our society, and it is up to each of us to look into our communities," she says. "We need to do research and ask: What are forms of systemic racism? How can I be an ally, and not to take up space, but to provide resources and opportunities?”

The emergence of Juneteenth into the national conversation allows us to learn more about a tradition that has come out of struggle. We can better understand ourselves in the context of history, and we can share in the joy of other Americans and honor their traditions.

Similar to July Fourth, many Black people view Juneteenth as their Independence Day. There may not always be fireworks on June 19, but there will be a celebration.

Yolande Clark-Jackson is a writer and educator based in South Florida. You can follow her on Twitter @YClarkjackson and find more of her work at yolandeclarkjackson.com.

This story has been updated to reflect the expanding number of states that legally observe Juneteenth. It was first published in 2021 and updated in 2024.

Pornhub will block Indiana and Kentucky next month, the latest in a growing list of blocked states thanks to age-verification laws.

SEE ALSO: Texas says goodbye to Pornhub — and hello to the top 10 VPNs

In recent years, age-verification laws have been popping up across the U.S. They typically require visitors to websites with over one-third of adult content to show proof of age (such as ID) when attempting to view this content. As experts told Mashable last year, age-verification laws won't work — VPNs are an easy work-around, for one, and requiring users to upload their IDs leaves them vulnerable to identity theft.

Still, more and more states are enacting these laws. Pornhub and its parent company Aylo's (formerly MindGeek) response has been to block these states from accessing the website at all.

Pornhub first blocked Utah last year, and has since has blocked Texas, North Carolina, Montana, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Virginia due to these laws. Louisiana has also passed an age-verification law, but as of publication Pornhub is still accessible there.

Now, Aylo will block Indiana and Kentucky in July, according to adult trade publication AVN. The laws that spurred these bans are Indiana's SB 17 and Kentucky's HB 278.

Florida could be the next state that faces a Pornhub ban; its age-verification law, HB 3, goes into effect January 2025.

If you happen to be in one of these states, Mashable has instructions on how to unblock Pornhub using a VPN.

One of the best lines from Bridgerton’s third instalment undoubtedly comes from one of the season’s MVPs: the series’ answer to Kris Jenner, Portia Featherington (Polly Walker). 

"You know what is romantic? Security," she scoffs at her daughter Penelope (Nicola Coughlan) dismissing her dreams of a storybook romance as an ultimate goal. Of course, Bridgerton is set in the Regency era, but this line resonates throughout the season.

Penelope (aka Lady Whistledown) is one of the only women of the Ton with her own financial means beyond marriage or inheritance — a covert state of independence she shares with her friend, modiste Genevieve Delacroix (Kathryn Drysdale). Penelope's work as a secret gossip columnist brings in more money than the Bridgerton men could fathom, and yet, she is still compelled to “take a husband”, as a means of escaping her family and continuing to conceal her earnings.

SEE ALSO: Justice for Cressida Cowper, the unsung heroine of 'Bridgerton' Season 3 

When Colin discovers Penelope’s identity, alongside his disdain for her reporting on matters relating to him and his family, he reveals a level of jealousy. An aspiring writer himself, Colin shows an inability to accept his fiancée's publishing success, her skill as a wordsmith, and the fact that her work means she can afford to pay Cressida Cowper (Jessica Madsen) thousands of pounds in blackmail money — without his help. "What good am I to you?" Colin asks repeatedly, believing his worth in a relationship is defined by his ability to take care of her — financially, and in terms of her social standing by marrying her. To Colin, if his wife-to-be doesn't need him — his money, his status, his apparent superior intellect — he is unsure what his role is in the relationship. And it's really Penelope's female friends Genevieve and (eventually) Eloise Bridgerton (Claudia Jessie), not her husband, who support her in reclaiming the authority she's worked so hard to establish.

Why is Colin actually mad at Penelope in Bridgerton? Credit: Liam Daniel / Netflix

In Bridgerton Season 3, Part 2, we see Colin angered by Penelope's writing and its real-world impact, but we also see him feel threatened by and envious of her success. While her accomplishment as Whistledown, a position Eloise deems as having "nearly as much power as the Queen", could be viewed as an empowering example to set for other women of the Ton in pursuit of security — financial or otherwise — we instead see Colin react by imposing his insecurities on Penelope. When Penelope suggests she uses her earnings to pay Cressida off, Colin appears possessive and proud, telling Penelope "it is not up to you" what happens and decides to take the situation into his own hands — and in doing so, makes it much worse. While Colin eventually admits his jealousy of Pen's power, even celebrates it in the series finale, initially all he sees is how Penelope’s secret identity and financial success disempowers him.

What Colin didn’t realise is that security in a relationship must be cultivated mutually through trust and support, and separately, through two individuals feeling empowered to pursue their own successes and dreams. Portia, emblematic of Regency repression, tells her daughter: "Ladies don't have dreams. They have husbands." This frustrating, unprogressive dynamic isn't contained to the Regency period, and persists in the modern day, unfortunately. 

It's not just Regency women hiding their success Credit: Liam Daniel / Netflix

Studies have shown that women who have a “higher social status” are much less likely to be successful in romantic relationships. And for those in heterosexual relationships, a woman’s professional, financial, or social success can impact a man’s self-esteem and mental health, as well as a woman’s motivation to follow her dreams, says clinical psychologist Dr Sarah Bishop.

“According to a study in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, men’s self-esteem can significantly suffer when they perceive their partner as outperforming them, potentially leading to mental health issues such as depression,” she explains. “On the other hand, the fear of straining relationships may cause women to downplay their achievements, as highlighted by research in the American Economic Review. This can result in career stagnation and unrealised potential.”

Women’s temptation to hide their achievements and not strive for their own financial security is horrifying when it comes to the huge disadvantage we then suffer on top of grappling with a gender pay gap and a cost of living crisis.

Credit: Liam Daniel / Netflix

In Bridgerton, women not only conceal their independent means, but are punished for seeking it at all. Cressida Cowper’s character arc this season is a prime example of a woman resorting to pragmatic means to achieve financial security — and being disciplined for it. After being told that her father will be cutting off her allowance if she doesn’t find a husband, she uses petty and competitive means to try and win over Lord Debling (Sam Phillips), before being forced into an arranged engagement with a man three times her age. Desperate for a way out and with a plan to leave the Ton for Europe, she's inspired to impersonate Lady Whistledown and resorts to blackmail to try and generate the wealth needed to secure her freedom.

Of course, she is unsuccessful, but she is also vilified and shunned for attempting to do so. Arguably, the only difference between Penelope and Cressida is that Penelope succeeded in finding her financial means and social status. Cressida did not and subsequently was shipped out of society, no longer viewed as a viable marriage match by men of the Ton. It begs the question, historically and today, would a man be subjected to the same social isolation and rejection for pursuing financial security?

Pressure to conceal success or provide can hurt both parties in a relationship Credit: Liam Daniel / Netflix

In Bridgerton storylines and the present day, this insecurity, jealousy, and requirement from men to be “needed” in a relationship, and women subsequently turning to pragmatic needs and being shunned or disrespected for their ambitions and successes “reflects deeper societal inequalities and norms that impact women's opportunities and choices,” according to counselling psychologist Dr Rina Bajaj.

She adds that women may “downplay or sacrifice their career ambitions to maintain harmony in their relationships”, just like Penelope is tempted to do on the show. Except we’re living in 2024, not the 1800s.

"Fear of surpassing their male partners can lead to women settling for less demanding roles or not pursuing promotions." - Dr Rina Bajaj

“Fear of surpassing their male partners can lead to women settling for less demanding roles or not pursuing promotions,” Bajaj explains. “This self-limiting behaviour can hinder women's professional growth and contribute to broader societal patterns of gender inequality in the workplace.”

According to Bishop, these sexist dynamics “often stem from societal conditioning and personal insecurities”. Rajaj adds that men may feel threatened when comparing themselves to a partner, a reaction that is “heightened in a society that often measures success through financial and career achievements.” Fears of rejection or abandonment can also be tied up in self-worth, alongside the deeply ingrained social pressure for men to provide. 

Credit: Liam Daniel / Netflix

At their core, these dynamics are indicative of engrained social norms that are sexist, patriarchal, and don't serve anyone or their relationships. A man’s worth is much more than his ability to provide and a woman’s worth is much more than her ability to limit herself according to what might threaten her partners’ social and financial standing.

Of course, Bridgerton’s portrayal of this particular issue is specifically focussed on the dynamic of a heterosexual relationship, despite its hints at queer storylines approaching for subsequent seasons. While Bishop points out that queer couples may be able to negotiate these dynamics in a more fluid fashion as they are not as tightly bound by traditional gender norms, Bajaj insists that these relationships “can also face issues related to power dynamics, though they may not always align with traditional gender roles”. These issues may still stem, though, from income disparities, or differences in social status and expectations.

“Issues of power and inequality might manifest differently compared to heterosexual relationships, but they still require attention and resolution,” she says. “Just as in heterosexual relationships, promoting equality and mutual respect is crucial. Partners should strive to understand each other's experiences and support each other’s personal and professional goals.”

What's the solution? Credit: Liam Daniel / Netflix

So how can we challenge these stereotypes and norms that promote a sexist attitude towards women's pursuit of their own financial stability and success?

“To reduce these dynamics in heterosexual relationships, it's crucial to challenge traditional gender roles and promote equality,” Bajaj says. “Both partners should support each other’s career and personal aspirations. This includes celebrating achievements, providing emotional support during challenges, and making joint decisions that consider both careers."

She adds that actively rejecting such stereotypes about what men or women “should” be doing in their lives and relationships, and embracing a “more flexible approach” can help create more equal relationships.

Featured Video For You ‘Bridgerton’ Season 3 has the internet upset for all the wrong reasons

It is also imperative that partners give each other space to “maintain individual identities”. In the case of our Bridgerton couple, we see some form of resolution at the end where Colin supports Penelope’s columnist role and her decision to stop writing anonymously, as they build a family together. Bajaj advises that “engaging in activities that are personally fulfilling” can encourage “balanced interdependence, where you support each other whilst also nurturing your individual growth”.

The portrayal of these problematic dynamics on a popular TV show proves the pervasive nature of these attitudes but also gives viewers the opportunity to identify if they may be experiencing a similar issue in their relationship. 

“Seeing characters confront and navigate gender inequalities can inspire viewers to take action in their own relationships or advocate for societal change. It can encourage individuals to challenge stereotypes and strive for more equitable partnerships,” Bajaj says.

Essentially, Portia Featherington was right — security in a relationship is definitely romantic. But that security must be mutual, so that women feel free to pursue passions and earn as much money as they see fit, without being concerned for the success of their romantic relationships and the ego of their partners. 

They should feel emotionally supported in doing so, a whole other type of security that is perhaps not as normalised in Bridgerton-era or modern society. In a relationship, there can be no security, equilibrium, or sound foundation without acceptance of each other's power, strengths and successes.

Perhaps, with this latest chapter, and the problems Colin and Penelope face, will inspire more women to strive for more — from themselves, career wise, and their relationships.

"While Bridgerton is set in the past, it also celebrates progress by portraying characters who challenge societal norms and strive for equality," Rajaj says. "This can inspire hope and optimism about the potential for positive change in relationships."

For more Bridgerton, Mashable's got you covered.

As the rumor mill surrounding Apple's $3,500 Vision Pro heated up last year, we've repeatedly heard that Apple plans to follow up with two headsets: an even more powerful, next-generation version, and a cheaper variant that could get more user adoption.

Now, according to a report from The Information, Apple has ditched plans to launch the more powerful device of the two, instead focusing solely on the cheaper version.

SEE ALSO: VisionOS 2 for Apple Vision Pro announced at WWDC 2024, including ultra-wide Mac virtual display

According to the report, this new, more affordable Vision headset (perhaps not a Pro by name) could come before the end of 2025, with fewer features.

This new Vision headset would reportedly still have the high-res displays that the made the original Vision Pro so enjoyable to use, but some (unnamed) features will be missing, and the headset will be at least a third lighter than the original. It would also be cheaper; we've previously heard that Apple discussed prices ranging from $1,500 to $2,500.

Featured Video For You Apple Vision Pro: I tried it on a plane and it was chaotic

The Vision Pro is by all accounts a very powerful, and often impressive device. It also has a fair share of issues, ranging from the extremely high price, some user interface bugs, and the fact that it's just too heavy for some heads.

There are also reports that the interest in the Vision Pro has died down, both in terms of online chatter and sales. Apple definitely hasn't given up on the Vision Pro yet, though. The company recently announced the next version of the underlying software platform, visionOS 2.0. The device will also soon launch in several new markets (it is currently only available in the U.S.): China, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, and the UK.

Rosalind Chao appeared on "The Daily Show" and spent the whole time roasting co-host Ronny Chieng.

"The Inheritance" trailer has dropped, teasing a billionaire giving his family a life-or-death ultimatum on his 75th birthday.

There’s nothing wrong with spending a bit of cash on fancy vibrators and complex sex-tech to boost our sex lives, but there’s one object that can really up the ante in the bedroom and there’s probably one already in your house, involving no money and little effort. 

By now, you might have seen Bridgerton Season 3, Part 2... and (spoiler alert) a certain steamy scene which begins in front of a mirror in Episode 5.

Did you know you can use a mirror, or a few, to create new sexual experiences and make sex better? You might have seen the term "mirror sex" popping up while browsing your fave porn websites. But how do you do it IRL in your own home?

We spoke to two sex experts, and people who use mirrors in their own sex lives, to break down what mirror sex is, how it’s done, and what it can do for your sex life and even your brain.  

SEE ALSO: The ultimate guide to having sex at a festival  What is mirror sex and why is it so appealing?

Mirror sex, put simply, is using mirrors in some way while having sex. Usually, it involves positioning a mirror (or positioning yourself around a fixed mirror) so that you can watch yourself and/or your partner in the mirror while you get down.

Megwyn White, clinical sexologist and director of education at sex toy company Satisfyer, says mirror sex can boost both arousal and confidence because you are seeing both you and your partner’s bodies in new angles performing intimate movements and experiencing pleasure. 

"When you see you and your partners’ bodies, it heightens an attention to the details of touch, the parts of you or your partner’s body you admire, as well as the phenomenon of what’s called the erogenous mirror which is essentially our tendency to touch our partners in relation to where we like to be touched," White explains.  

SEE ALSO: How to spice up your solo sex life

Emerson Karsh, who has a degree in human sexuality and is known professionally as The Kink Educator, says mirror sex is also a great opportunity to explore exhibitionism. 

"Mirror sex can allow us to watch ourselves have sex and spark our inner exhibitionist. Watching ourselves have sex in the mirror also includes more visual stimulation which can make it so hot. Mirror sex allows us to be exhibitionist and to get lots of fun visual stimulation making it super hot," she tells Mashable. 

Part of the appeal with mirror sex is that it really is for anyone and everyone. Most people have a mirror in their house somewhere so it’s easy to get started, and it even works for those having sex solo. In fact, solo sex in the mirror can do great things for people’s confidence. 

How mirror sex can help with confidence 

Masturbating with a mirror has myriad benefits. It's a really great tool to figure out what parts of your body you enjoy being touched, learning how you receive pleasure and increasing your knowledge of what works for you sexually. This, in turn, helps you feel more confident communicating your needs in the bedroom. 

SEE ALSO: What to do when body image is affecting your sex life

Mirror sex can can also help with body confidence. For some people, the mirror can be daunting while fully-clothed, but mirror sex can actually ease those discomforts for some people.

Karsh explains that mirror sex, and mirror masturbation in particular, lets us get to know our body and what it can do in all of its glory. "Mirror masturbation can almost reflect exposure therapy and the more we are exposed to our bodies in the mirror, the more comfortable we can get with our bodies," she says.  

White says that, in general, looking at yourself in the mirror naked alone is a great exercise to boost body confidence and can also help you understand your bodies’ rhythms and preferences when it comes to being touched. 

"Being comfortable with yourself and being kind to your body is an important first step in overcoming difficulties with body confidence."

"Being comfortable with yourself and being kind to your body is an important first step in overcoming difficulties with body confidence. The more you feel comfortable looking at yourself naked in a mirror, the more accepting you are of yourself, and your body as it is," she says. Research by Goldsmiths University confirms this, saying that nude activities as simple as looking at yourself naked, sleeping naked and seeing others naked can increase self esteem.

Mirror sex is a great way to not only boost your confidence, but also your partners. “By watching yourself pleasure a partner and/or being pleasured, it helps boost your confidence seeing you and your partner get turned on and feel sexy,” White adds. It may also inspire you to try new positions you have never done before, because you can see how your bodies react to the newfound pleasure. Not only does mirror sex unleash your inner exhibitionist, but helps you to focus on one another too. 

How to build your mirror sex confidence 

Some people can feel a bit odd about having sex in the mirror, and it's okay if it's not for you. But if you find mirror sex intimidating and want that to not be the case, there are steps you can take to get there.

First of all, sex does not have to occur fully naked. Karsh notes that trying something new can be done in a marathon instead of a sprint. "If you’re uncomfortable in your body or nervous about your body in the mirror, I would recommend wearing lingerie that makes you feel sexy," she says. 

SEE ALSO: The best sex toys for women

"Another option is only having mirror sex in one position or for a few minutes then [changing positions to move out of your reflection]. Mirror does not have to be the entire sexual encounter," Karsh adds. 

It can also help to get comfy in the mirror alone before jumping into mirror sex. White suggests standing alone naked in front of a mirror and saying positive affirmations to yourself such as, "I am beautiful, I am strong, I am confident," etc., to help yourself become more loving towards your body. 

It can also help to get comfy in the mirror alone before jumping into mirror sex.

Additionally, try changing your mindset around what you see in the mirror, as what you see as a flaw could be what your partner is enjoying so much. If it’s something you think would help and it’s comfortable, you could ask your partner to describe what they’re seeing and what they’re enjoying during mirror sex. This could even lead into praise kink play, if desired.

How to experiment with mirror sex 

Having good mirror sex, like any sex, is about experimenting and communicating clearly with your partner to find what you are comfortable with and enjoy the most.

Set the ambience

White notes that setting the ambiance for a good experience is one of the most important factors of mirror sex, as the vibe can add to the experience as a whole. "In general, areas of sharp contrast between light and dark are unpleasant to the eyes and can distract you from feeling present in the sensuality of the experience, so be sure to turn off harsh lighting sources," she explains. 

She suggests diffusing outside light with soft curtains or blinds and incorporating items like candles, as they create a soft glow and flickering effect which help draw your eye to the glow of the skin when looking in the mirror. It may take a few goes trying different ambience styles to figure out what you, or you and your partner, enjoy. That’s all part of the fun though! 

Try different positions

Karsh says that, during mirror sex, we’re able to see ourselves and our partners in positions we otherwise wouldn’t be able to, so it’s fun to switch them up. "In doggy-style position, for example, the person receiving tends to look at the ground, pillow, etc and is unable to see the partner behind them, their face, or the sexual act, but mirror sex allows us to see the action, our faces, and our partners' faces in positions we otherwise wouldn’t be able to," she says. 

You can try the missionary position at the side of a mirror (if you have a wardrobe next to your bed with mirrors, this one is easy) if you’re after a quick glance in the mirror when it suits you. Having sex in the spooning position with the receiver facing the mirror can be great if they’d like to be the star of the show and watch themselves.

As for those having sex solo, a handheld mirror while masturbating, sitting up, legs spread, is an amazing way to discover your body and be able to see your body and face in the same reflection, sitting on the floor in front of a mirror and masturbating is ideal for the fully-fledged exhibitionists. 

As always with sex, it’s about experimenting to find what makes you tick. 

Switch up the location of the mirror

Try using one against the headboard, along the side of your bed or standing up to try different positions. Even use a handheld mirror to see penetration in a position you wouldn’t normally get to see.

Almost every bathroom has a mirror, so you can try having shower sex without the curtain and watch yourself in the mirror that way.

SEE ALSO: How to have the best shower sex Involve sex toys 

Like with most sex acts, sex toys can liven up the party with mirror sex. Use them just as you usually would (there’s a guide here for beginners) put yourself, or you and your partner, towards your mirror of choice to watch your toy get to work. 

Similar to incorporating sex toys into our sex lives, adding a mirror is another asset that can spice up your pleasure experience. Choose your mirror, grab a toy and have fun with it. 

This article was first published in 2023 and republished in 2024.

Game of Thrones may be a distant memory, but the Westeros train is still chugging gamely along.

As well as House of the Dragon making a glorious (if disturbing) return to our lives, we've also got another spinoff officially in the works: A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, based on George R.R. Martin's novella The Hedge Knight, has now gone into production.

SEE ALSO: A 'Game of Thrones' primer on what exactly is a Dunk and Egg

The story follows Ser Duncan the Tall and his squire, Egg (these two are Dunk and Egg, a phrase you may have heard before) on their adventures across the Seven Kingdoms, taking place around 100 years before the events of Game of Thrones (so around 100 years after House of the Dragon).

Featured Video For You House of the Dragon Season 1: Everything you need to remember about Season 1 in 60 seconds

The image above is the first we have and — as you may have guessed from the way he towers over everyone else in shot — the man is Ser Duncan, played by former rugby union player Peter Claffey. The cast also includes Dexter Sol Ansell as Egg, Finn Bennett as Aerion Targaryen, Bertie Carvel as Baelor Targaryen, Tanzyn Crawford as Tanselle, Daniel Ings as Ser Lyonel Barotheon, and Sam Spruell as Maekar Targaryen.

"Set in an age when the Targaryen line still holds the Iron Throne, and the memory of the last dragon has not yet passed from living memory, great destinies, powerful foes, and dangerous exploits all await these improbable and incomparable friends," reads the logline.

Count us in.

Written and directed by Jesse Eisenberg, "A Real Pain" follows cousins travelling to Poland to honour their grandmother. Trailer.

Last year, WhatsApp finally added the option to share photos (and, later, videos) in HD quality. Unfortunately, the feature had one big limitation: You had to remember to choose it every time you upload a photo, otherwise it would be uploaded in standard, SD resolution.

Now, as spotted by Android Police, WhatsApp is adding the option to select high definition quality sharing for images and videos to be the default.

Tweet may have been deleted

The new feature, which is currently rolling out in the latest WhatsApp beta, should appear in the app's Settings under Storage and data, where you can tap Media upload quality to select HD quality if you so desire.

SEE ALSO: "BRING THE BLUE BACK": WhatsApp announces app redesign, not everyone is pleased

If you do go for the HD quality option, WhatsApp will warn you that photos and videos will be slower to send, and can be six times larger (which can be costly if you're sending media over a mobile data connection). But if you do care about image quality, you'll probably be willing to live with those limitations.

Also, it should be noted that this pertains to media uploads only, and not status updates.

This is still a beta option, and there's no word when (or if) it will reach the official release, but given several people have reported seeing it in beta, it will likely become officially available for everyone soon.

TL;DR: Whip up delicious meals with the Wolfgang Puck Outdoor Wood Pellet Pizza Oven and Grill bundle, now just $169.99, a $190 discount from the usual bundle price.

Getting tired of hot dogs and hamburgers? With a sunshine-y socializing season upon us, it doesn't hurt to have another delicious outdoor dining idea up your sleeve. That's where the Wolfgang Puck Outdoor Wood Pellet Pizza Oven and Grill comes in. And while the best pizza oven deals usually occur in the off-season, you can get this outdoor oven at a new low price right now.

Friends and family will love coming to your place for pizza nights with the Wolfgang Puck wood pellet pizza oven. This June, you can score the stainless steel model, complete with a bundle of pellets and accessories, for just $169.99 (reg. $359.99) — a 52% discount.

Extra cheese? Pepperoni? Serve up the pizza of your dreams with this Wolfgang Puck Pizza Oven set. The stainless steel oven is durable and sturdy, while also portable enough to bring along to tailgates and campouts. Once you're ready to whip up a pizza, the wood pellets help make preheating a breeze — the oven heats up to 950 degrees in only 15 minutes. And this bundle includes natural wood pellets in apple, oak, and charcoal, 12 firestarter sticks, and four pouches of dough, so you'll be ready to rock upon delivery.

Fortunately, it's also easy to set up and store since it has a detachable chimney. And it's not just for pizza-making — this oven and grill is also great for grilling up other delicacies like steaks, fish, chicken or wings. If you're in need of inspiration, it also comes with some fantastic Wolfgang Puck recipes.

Chow down this summer with the Wolfgang Puck Outdoor Wood Pellet Pizza Oven and Grill bundle, now only $169.99 (reg. $359.99) right here for a limited time.

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Opens in a new window Credit: Wolfgang Puck Wolfgang Puck Outdoor Wood Pellet Pizza Oven & Grill (Stainless Steel Bundle) $169.99 at The Mashable Shop
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TL;DR: If you want to learn about popular AI tools and get familiar with the skills to become an AI developer, check out The Ultimate Artificial Intelligence & Automation Developer Bundle for $59.99 (reg. $234). 

AI tools aren't limited to ChatGPT. You'll also hear about Copilot, Bard/Gemini, DALL-E, Midjourney, and so many more. When you first start learning about artificial intelligence, it may seem overwhelming, but there are some great tools to help you get familiar with the key concepts and core skills. These are outlined in this Artificial Intelligence & Automation Developer Bundle, a 13-course introduction to the fundamentals of AI, robotics, coding, and more. 

Get this whole AI development bundle while it's on sale for $59.99, a 74% discount from the full retail price.

Learn to use AI as a beginner

Dive into AI with 46 hours of lessons and video lectures on everything from coding in Python to using a neural network to classify images. This bundle gives you the theory and chances for hands-on learning, and all course materials remain yours for life. 

There's no formal starting point, but if you're only just exploring AI, it may be wise to start with Introduction to the Latest Artificial Intelligence Tools. This course introduces you to a huge menu of popular AI tools and shows you how to use them to solve complex problems, improve your own decision-making, and more. 

Interested in AI image generators? There's a course dedicated to ChatGPT, Midjourney, and DALL-E so you can learn more about how to use them to create the art you need. That's just the start, too. You can explore using AI for automation, more in-depth coding lessons, and more — all at your own pace. 

Get acquainted with AI, coding, and more

Get ahead of the curve and learn how to use AI tools. With these 13 courses, you can start learning the skills needed to become a developer and take advantage of artificial intelligence.

For a limited time, score this Artificial Intelligence & Automation Developer Bundle on sale for $59.99. 

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Opens in a new window Credit: Invert Media The Ultimate Artificial Intelligence & Automation Developer Bundle $59.99 at The Mashable Shop
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TL;DR: Now through June 26th, enjoy online freedom on ten devices with a lifetime subscription to FastestVPN, on sale for $39.99 (reg. $360) for a limited time.

Opens in a new window Credit: FastestVPN FastestVPN: Lifetime Subscription (10 devices) $31.97 at The Mashable Shop
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Digital connectivity is at the center of almost everything we do. So, it makes sense that securing your online presence is an integral part of that. Virtual private networks (VPNs) allow online users to enjoy a more private experience, and you can buy one for life on sale today.

As of June 19, a lifetime subscription to FastestVPN is on sale for just $39.99 (reg. $360) for a limited time.

FastestVPN takes security a step further by also prioritizing speed. Enjoy smooth, lag-free browsing, streaming, and gaming with more than 600 high-speed servers around the globe (in over 41 countries) optimized for maximum performance. Whether you’re streaming HD videos, playing online games, or downloading large files, FastestVPN is made to deliver consistently fast and reliable connections.

If you're curious about this VPN's security measures, it features a NAT firewall, ad blocker, anti-malware software, and a strict no-logging policy, which means even they don't have access to your data. It acts like a security guard that helps make sure the websites you visit are safe. It also uses military-grade 256-bit AES encryption.

Want to access your streaming accounts while traveling without issue? FastestVPN also allows you to get past geo-restrictions and stream whatever you want. In addition, you get around-the-clock support, an internet kill switch, and unlimited server switches, all for one price, with no monthly fees, on ten devices.

Enhance your privacy, security, and freedom with this VPN that was designed to be easy to set up and use. Get a lifetime subscription to FastestVPN and stay privately connected on ten devices for just $39.99 for a limited time.

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TL;DR: Upgrade your home office with a grade-A refurbished Dell Precision T3620 Tower with 512GB SSD while it's on sale for $269.99 (reg. $684) for a limited time.

While laptops have a solid place in the world, sometimes a home office needs the power of a desktop. If you're in need of a tower (and some peripherals) to start building your play- or work-from-home hub, this refurbished Dell Precision T3620 Tower is at a very reasonable $269.99 (reg. $684) for a limited time.

Whether you’re a professional looking for a robust workstation, a student in need of a reliable study spot, or a home user seeking an upgrade, this refurbished Dell Precision T3620 Tower should be considered. The grade-A refurbished rating means that it has been tested, inspected, and cleaned and should arrive in near-mint condition.

It has a tiny form factor, which is ideal for smaller workspaces. At the heart of this Dell Precision T3620 lies the Intel Core i7-6700 processor, renowned for its speed and efficiency. With a base clock speed of 3.4 GHz and 16GB RAM, this CPU allows for a super smooth, lag-free performance across all your applications.

From the model year 2017, you can access LAN and WiFi to connect via Ethernet or a network. It comes with Windows 10 Pro to get you moving right out of the box. It also comes with a keyboard, mouse, and WiFi dongle.

Act now to take advantage of this limited-time offer on a home computing setup that provides a generous 512GB of local storage space, all at a remarkable 60% off the regular price.

Get this grade-A refurbished Dell Precision T3620 Tower with a keyboard, mouse, and dongle while it's on sale for $269.99 (reg. $684).

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Centuries ago, a huge red spot on Jupiter vanished. But years later, a new one was born.

Today we know this conspicuous feature as the "Great Red Spot," a swirling storm wider than Earth. Curiously, earlier astronomers, like Giovanni Domenico Cassini in 1665, also observed a colossal red storm at the same latitude on Jupiter — raising the possibility that they're actually the same storm.

In newly published research, however, astronomers sleuthed through historical drawings and early telescope observations of Jupiter to conclude that today's spot is indeed a separate storm from its predecessor, unfittingly known as the "Permanent Spot." It likely disappeared between the mid-18th and 19th centuries.

"What is certain is that no astronomer of the time reported any spot at that latitude for 118 years," Agustín Sánchez-Lavega, a planetary scientist at the University of the Basque Country in Spain, told Mashable.

SEE ALSO: NASA scientist viewed first Voyager images. What he saw gave him chills.

Then, in 1831, astronomers started seeing a conspicuous red spot again. The new research, published in Geophysical Research Letters, concludes this latest spot is at least 190 years old.

That's one impressive storm. Not only has it been spinning counterclockwise for nearly two centuries, it packs winds reaching some 400 mph. Planetary scientists at NASA and elsewhere are working to understand what gives the space tempest its vibrant red hue.

Centuries-old documentation of the Permanent Spot also shows that it was much smaller than the Great Red Spot in the 19th century (and later), which means this earlier storm would have had to triple in size. But that's not something astronomers have ever witnessed in a storm on Jupiter, Sánchez-Lavega explained.

The images a, b, and c show the "Permanent Spot" drawn by Italian astronomer Giovanni Domenico Cassini respectively in 1677, 1690, and 1691. The image d shows a view of the Great Red Spot in 2023. Credit: G. D. Cassini / Eric Sussenbach / AGU a: A 1711 painting with Jupiter by Donato Creti showing the Permanent Spot. b: A drawing by the French artist E. L. Trouvelot in November 1880, showing the Great Red Spot. c: A drawing by T. G. Elger in November 1881 showing the Great Red Spot. Credit: Donato Creti / E. L. Trouvelot / T. G. Elger

You might wonder how the Great Red Spot, so unique in color and size, came to be. You're not alone. To find out, the research team also ran computer simulations, based on the behavior of vortices (or storms) in the Jovian atmosphere. The most compelling result — that created a larger "proto-Great Red Spot" that would have shrunk into a more compact storm — was unstable wind and atmospheric disturbance in this region of Jupiter's atmosphere. Another leading candidate was the possibility of several storms merging, but that didn't produce something resembling the Great Red Spot.

For over 150 years, the Great Red Spot has continued to shrink. In 1879, when it appeared more sausage-like, it was some 24,200 miles (39,000 kilometers) across. Now it's 8,700 miles (14,000 kilometers) wide, which is about the size of its predecessor. The spot's next stages are uncertain.

The Great Red Spot, as seen in April 2017, with Earth overlaid. Credit: NASA / JPL-Caltech / SwRI / MSSS / Christopher Go

"We do not know what the future of the [Great Red Spot] is," Sánchez-Lavega said. If it continues to contract, it could fragment apart. Or, he added, "It may reach a stable size and last for a long time."

One thing is certain: From our perch hundreds of millions of miles away, we'll be watching.

Not all airplane seats are created equal. If you're booking your next flight and wondering which seat to choose, some are better than others.

We're not just talking about first class seats versus economy seats. Because of plane configurations, some seats are narrower, don't line up with the windows, or don't recline. So, there are definitely seats you want to avoid, like anything close to the bathroom.

But the short answer to which seat on a plane is best is... it depends. There are factors to consider like how frequently you get up or how much legroom you need. We've broken down the best seat options with pros and cons for each.

Which are the best seats on a plane?

Generally speaking, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing your seat. First, the middle of the plane moves the least, since it's closest to the wings. So if you get motion sickness or thinking about turbulence, that's where you want to be. Second, different airlines have different aircraft models and layouts, so everything varies slightly from plane to plane. To learn more about the aircraft you're flying on, check out SeatGuru or AeroLopa, which have detailed seat maps of each airline fleet.

Window seat

For many, especially first time fliers, the window seat is definitely the best choice. There's nothing like watching the world from 40,000 feet. It's also the only kind of seat where you can lay your head against the wall for a snooze. And when you're stuck on a plane, a comfortable sleeping position is gold. The major drawback of the window seat is having to bother your neighbors if you need to use the restroom. Also, being tucked off to the side might make some people might feel a little claustrophobic.

Aisle seat

The aisle seat is the way to go if you get up frequently or need to stretch your legs. Those who take hydrating while traveling very seriously should choose an aisle seat for easy access to the bathroom. Plus, tall folks might be able to (considerately) extend their legs into the aisle. And a bonus for aisle seat passengers is getting off the plane that much quicker. The biggest con of the aisle seat is having to get up for your middle and window seat neighbors. Plus, you don't have anything to rest your head up in you're trying to sleep.

Exit row seat

Typically, exit row seats offer more legroom than other seats because of the space required to access the emergency exit. So, tall passengers are always trying to nab these seats first. Exit row seats are often the bulkhead-facing seats as well, which means no seat in front to store your stuff. But if you're okay with storing your carry-on in the overhead bin, it's not much of a issue.

However, with great legroom, comes great responsibility. Passengers sitting in the exit row seats are responsible for helping during an emergency landing, so you must meet specific requirements like having sufficient mobility, be over 15 years old, speaking the native language, and others. It's highly unlikely you'll be tasked with this, but it's something to consider if you don't think you're right for the responsibility.

As we approach the halfway point of 2024, it's time to take a look back at the best TV shows this year has had to offer.

2024 has been off to a solid start, with a whole host of comedies, dramas, and limited series grabbing our attention. We were floored by the historical epic Shōgun, rejoiced in the return of shows like We Are Lady Parts and Interview with the Vampire, and couldn't get enough of Fallout. And there's so much more TV excellence where those came from!

SEE ALSO: The 10 best movies of 2024 (so far!)

From samurai and spies to vampires and detectives, here are the 13 best TV shows of 2024 so far, and where to watch them.

13. Expats Nicole Kidman and Sarayu Blue in "Expats." Credit: Glen Wilson / Prime Video

Centered on a trio of expatriates living in Hong Kong, Lulu Wang's Expats is a sensitive — at times heartbreaking — exploration of grief and feeling unmoored.

SEE ALSO: 'Expats' review: Lulu Wang and Nicole Kidman team up for a painful exploration of grief

Our three leads are Margaret (Nicole Kidman), a woman whose son Gus has gone missing; Hilary (Sarayu Blue), her neighbor who's struggling with deciding whether or not to have a child; and Mercy (Ji-young Yoo), a directionless college graduate involved in Gus's disappearance. Wang brings us into their personal lives with care, empathy, and a keen eye, unafraid to show us these women's many flaws. Expats can sometimes be messy, especially when it tries to shoehorn the stories of Margaret and Hilary's housekeepers (Ruby Ruiz and Amelyn Pardenilla) — which certainly deserve to be told — into a supersized penultimate episode. Otherwise, though, Expats is layered with pain and wonderful performances, with Blue especially turning in outstanding work. — Belen Edwards, Entertainment Reporter

How to watch: Expats is now streaming on Prime Video.

12. Mary & George Julianne Moore and Nicholas Galitzine in "Mary & George." Credit: Starz

Julianne Moore and Nicholas Galitzine scheme and seduce their way to the top in Mary & George, a period drama all about the heady pursuit of power. 

SEE ALSO: 'Mary and George' review: The horniest period drama of 2024 is also one of its best

Moore plays Mary Villiers, a countess in Jacobean England who pushes her son George (Galitzine) to be King James VI and I's (Tony Curran) new lover. Rival suitors and political opponents have it out for the Villiers family, and while George claims his feelings for James are real, there's no doubt he and his mother are using the fragile king for their own gain. As Mary and George's influence continues to grow, the series weaves an intoxicating web of sex, politics, and scandal — one that threatens to collapse around the Villiers as they sacrifice anything and anyone to get ahead. — B.E.

How to watch: Mary & George is now streaming on Starz.

11. Fallout Ella Purnell in "Fallout." Credit: Courtesy of Prime Video

TV has gifted us with some stellar video game adaptations in recent years, from Arcane to Castlevania to The Last of Us. In 2024, Fallout joined their ranks, delivering a first season that was bonkers fun (and full of references to the games).

SEE ALSO: 'Fallout' review: Video game adaptation is a wild nuclear Western

Created by Geneva Robertson-Dworet and Graham Wagner, Fallout introduced us to a post-apocalyptic nuclear wasteland where rival factions and mutant creatures run amok. Here, an optimistic Vault dweller named Lucy (Ella Purnell), a Brotherhood of Steel novice named Maximus (Aaron Moten), and an irradiated bounty hunter known simply as the Ghoul (Walton Goggins) cross paths in a journey that will change the wasteland as they know it. With its tantalizing mysteries, zany cast of characters, and gnarly world-building, Fallout is an absolute blast whether you've played the games or not. — B.E.

How to watch: Fallout is now streaming on Prime Video.

10. Boy Swallows Universe Felix Cameron in "Boy Swallows Universe." Credit: Courtesy of Netflix

A dark but genuinely funny tale of suburban crime brimming with magical realism, the Netflix adaptation of Trent Dalton's novel Boy Swallows Universe is one of 2024's unsung heroes — much like its pint-sized protagonist, 13-year-old Eli Bell (played by outstandingly talented youngster Felix Cameron). Chock-full of '80s Australiana, the series is set in the working-class Brisbane suburb of Darra, where Eli navigates school bullies and a turbulent family life as well as he handles hard-edged criminals with his imaginative brother, Gus (Lee Tiger Halley). It's a heartfelt, unsettling, and hilarious journey through young adolescence, the reality of addiction, and brutal crime, with a killer Aussie soundtrack. — Shannon Connellan, UK Editor

How to watch: Boy Swallows Universe is now streaming on Netflix.

9. Mr. & Mrs. Smith Donald Glover and Maya Erskine in "Mr. & Mrs. Smith." Credit: David Lee / Prime Video

Francesca Sloane and Donald Glover's Mr. & Mrs. Smith is anything but a stale remake. Instead, this infinitely enjoyable reimagining of the 2005 film pairs two new spies (Glover and Maya Erskine) together in a fake marriage. How long until they catch real feelings for one another?

SEE ALSO: 'Mr. and Mrs. Smith' review: Donald Glover and Maya Erskine's series is sleek, sexy, and super fun

The answer? Not that long! Each of Mr. & Mrs. Smith's eight episodes smartly dive into a new aspect of relationships, from first dates to discussions about wanting kids. These marital milestones are accompanied by a new mission from week to week. Between ski trips in Italy, silent auctions in New York, and a Lake Como car chase gone awry, each assignment ushers in new opportunities for stylish action. Glover and Erskine ooze charm and chemistry, while a rotating gallery of guest stars — Parker Posey! John Turturro! Paul Dano! — keeps things fresh. Smart, sleek, and sexy, Mr. & Mrs. Smith is a TV show that truly embraces episodic storytelling. I'd gladly devour five (or more) seasons of it. — B.E.

How to watch: Mr. & Mrs. Smith is now streaming on Prime Video.

8. The Sympathizer Hoa Xuande and Robert Downey Jr. in "The Sympathizer." Credit: Courtesy of HBO

Viet Thanh Nguyen's Pulitzer Prize–winning novel The Sympathizer got an absolutely tremendous TV adaptation thanks to co-creators Park Chan-wook and Don McKellar.

SEE ALSO: 'The Sympathizer' review: Park Chan-wook's Vietnam War spy thriller is TV magic

The Sympathizer centers on a Communist spy simply known as the Captain (Hoa Xuande, whose performance here should make him a star), who is recounting his experiences during and after the Vietnam War. Half-Vietnamese and half-French, the Captain feels torn between two worlds, a feeling that only grows when he's told to continue spying in America following the fall of Saigon. From here, The Sympathizer jumps into a probing exploration of memory and allegiance that doubles as sharp satire. Boasting stylish direction from Park and a cast that includes Sandra Oh and Robert Downey Jr. (in four roles with varying degrees of success), The Sympathizer is a more than worthy adaptation of a great novel. — B.E.  

How to watch: The Sympathizer is now streaming on Max.

7. We Are Lady Parts, Season 2 Faith Omole, Sarah Kameela Impey, Juliette Motamed, and Anjana Vasan in "We Are Lady Parts." Credit: Saima Khalid / Peacock / NBC Internatiional/C4

After three long years on hiatus, We Are Lady Parts is back with a second season that was well worth the wait. 

SEE ALSO: Malala Yousafzai in 'We Are Lady Parts' is the cameo of the year

Created by Nida Manzoor, this sensational comedy series centers on Lady Parts, a punk band made up of Muslim women who are figuring out life, love, friendship, and faith in contemporary London. Between the setting and some familiar themes, Season 2 has echoes of Bridgerton, but with an irreverent sense of humor that is not only totally modern but also absolutely hilarious. Whether following wallflower guitarist Amina (Anjana Vasan), hard-headed frontwoman Saira (Sarah Kameela Impey), warm-hearted bassist Bisma (Faith Omole), mercurial drummer Ayesha (Juliette Motamed), or their ever-strategic manager Momtaz (Lucie Shorthouse), We Are Lady Parts rocks, peppered with playful punchlines, rapturous fantasy sequences, rousing musical numbers, and a cameo from the one-and-only Malala Yousafzai. Whether you're new to this series or not, Season 2 is too good to be missed. — Kristy Puchko, Entertainment Editor

How to watch: We Are Lady Parts is now streaming on Peacock in the U.S. and Channel 4 in the UK.

6. Ripley Andrew Scott in "Ripley." Credit: Lorenzo Sisti / Netflix

Andrew Scott awed TV audiences as the theatrically malicious Moriarty in Sherlock, then as the scorchingly Hot Priest in Fleabag. But with Ripley, he plays a very different game. 

SEE ALSO: Does 'Ripley's murder scene count as ASMR?

Adapted from Patricia Highsmith's classic novel The Talented Mr. Ripley, this drama miniseries from Steven Zaillian lures audiences into the seductive world of Thomas Ripley, American social climber turned con man and killer. Offered a free trip to Italy to reclaim an industrialist's expatriate heir, Ripley sees a whole new world open before him: one of privilege, art, and endless opportunities all tied to status and money. But to claim a bit of it himself, he'll have to get his hands dirty. While you might know the story (or the Matt Damon movie), the patience with which this slow-burn series doles it out allows audiences to luxuriate in Highsmith's high-stakes game of jealousy, deception, and murder. The result is a show that feels like a lost holiday: alluring, surprising, and sure to linger on your mind, heart, and soul. — K.P.

How to watch: Ripley is now streaming on Netflix.

5. True Detective: Night Country Jodie Foster and Kali Reis in "True Detective: Night Country." Credit: Michele K. Short / HBO

True Detective came back with a vengeance for its fourth season, this time helmed by Tigers Are Not Afraid director Issa López. For this new installment of the anthology series, we travel to Ennis, Alaska, a small community about to enter a period of nonstop night.

SEE ALSO: Everything you need to know about 'True Detective: Night Country'

But darkness isn't the only thing the citizens of Ennis have to worry about. When a group of scientists turn up dead in what can only be described as a "corpsicle," former police partners Danvers (Jodie Foster) and Navarro (Kali Reis) reluctantly team back up to find out who's responsible. As they investigate this case — as well as a murder from years ago that could be linked — the two uncover painful truths about themselves and about Ennis. Oh, and ghosts may or may not be involved. Bleak, enthralling, and anchored by wonderful work from Foster and Reis, Night Country proves there's still power in True Detective yet. — B.E.

How to watch: True Detective: Night Country is now streaming on Max.

4. Fantasmas Julio Torres in "Fantasmas." Credit: Monica Lek / HBO

Comedian Julio Torres is having a banner year. Not only is his directorial debut Problemista already one of the best movies of 2024 — his latest TV show, HBO's Fantasmas, is also one of the year's standout series.

SEE ALSO: 'Fantasmas' review: Surreal Julio Torres comedy is like nothing else on TV

This surreal comedy follows a fictionalized version of Torres as he hunts for a lost golden oyster-shaped earring. His quest veers off into a series of bizarro, cameo-rich vignettes that dive into the inner lives of objects and concepts or introduce us to strange new characters. Steve Buscemi inhabits the tragic story of the letter Q, for example, while Emma Stone pops up as a Real Housewife-esque figure. Bolstered by singular production design and a sprawling ensemble, Fantasmas cements itself as one of the most original shows of the year — and the most radical. It tackles everything from the American healthcare system to the ways in which corporations commodify identity, making for a fascinating portrayal of how people struggle to be themselves (and how artists struggle to make art) in our capitalist society. — B.E.

How to watch: Fantasmas is now streaming on Max.

3. Interview with the Vampire, Season 2 Delainey Hayles in "Interview with the Vampire." Credit: Larry Horricks / AMC

Season 1 of this audacious adaptation of Anne Rice's Vampire Chronicles played like a "brilliant gay fever dream," making explicit the queer romance that was implied in the titular novel. With Season 2, the toxic love of Louis de Pointe du Lac (Jacob Anderson) and Lestat de Lioncourt (Sam Reid) lives on — even if the latter is presumed dead. 

SEE ALSO: 'Interview with the Vampire' Season 2 review: Theater, romance, and bloody good TV

Looking back on his time as a blood-sucker, Louis unfurls flashbacks of war-torn Europe, his resentful sister Claudia (Delainey Hayles), grisly theater kid drama, and a budding romance with the vampire Armand (Assad Zaman). Blending elements from several Anne Rice novels — including The Vampire Lestat and The Tale of the Body Thief — showrunner Rolin Jones is giving fans plenty to sink their teeth into. Yet for all this sensational show's splashes of blood, vicious humor, queer longing, and vampire lore, the best bit is the incredible charisma oozing from every single cast member. Whether they're prancing on a stage, fighting in a catacomb, flirting in Paris, or musing in present-day Dubai, they are as captivating as Rice described her immortal beloveds. So no matter how twisted things get, we can't look away! — K.P.

How to watch: Interview with the Vampire Season 2 is now streaming on AMC+.

2. Baby Reindeer Richard Gadd and Jessica Gunning in "Baby Reindeer." Credit: Ed Miller / Netflix

For better or worse, Baby Reindeer is a show that sticks with you: It's amusing in parts, tense in others, and emotionally shattering overall. Based on creator Richard Gadd's own experience of being stalked, the series follows the budding comedian (who plays a version of himself) as he balances career disappointment with his job in a London pub — until a woman named Martha (a brilliant and terrifying Jessica Gunning) comes in one day and develops an obsession with him. "This isn't the type of show with a clear resolution," I wrote in my review for Mashable. "It's messy, thought-provoking, and — like a dream that's difficult to shake — you'll find your mind going back to it long after the credits have rolled." — Sam Haysom, Deputy UK Editor

How to watch: Baby Reindeer is now streaming on Netflix.

1. Shōgun Hiroyuki Sanada in "Shōgun." Credit: Kurt Iswarienko / FX

There's good TV, there's great TV, and then there's TV that's so excellent it feels unfair. Shōgun is the latter.

SEE ALSO: 'Shōgun' co-creators break down the finale: 'It's a story about death'

An immaculately crafted historical epic that never loses sight of the personal stakes that drive it, Shōgun drops us into Japan in 1600. Here, an embattled Council of Regents ousts the powerful Lord Yoshii Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada) just as an English vessel lands in Japan for the first time. Toranaga brings the vessel's pilot John Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis) into his retinue and, with the help of noblewoman Toda Mariko (Anna Sawai), attempts to best his enemies as Japan inches closer and closer to civil war. 

Told almost entirely in Japanese, and produced with a focus on cultural authenticity in mind, Shōgun is breathtaking and devastating in equal measure. Sanada, Sawai, and Jarvis are tremendous, along with the entire cast. And while you might come into this epic expecting action and political intrigue (don't worry, you get both), you'll really leave with a sense of mournful contemplation, as Shōgun takes time to examine our relationship to death and to the secret desires that truly drive us. There's no doubt about it: This is the best show of 2024 so far. — B.E.

How to watch: Shōgun is now streaming on Hulu.

Dating is tough; we get it. And dating while broke? That's a special kind of torture. From spending your hard-earned cash on overpriced cocktails, awkwardly splitting the check, or worse, dealing with that one date who asked you to Venmo them for your half of the guac (seriously?), we've all experienced the pains of dating on a budget.

Luckily, modern tech has made dating more accessible and affordable, and the best free dating apps promise to connect you with your potential soul mate — no credit card required. (We know, it sounds too good to be true.)

While you might have to pay for drinks, at least these dating apps let you start matching for free.

What is the best totally free dating app?

Dating apps like Tinder, OkCupid, and Hinge have a free version that holds its own against its paid counterparts. That said, there are also some completely free, more niche dating apps worth checking out too, like Archer and Lex.

SEE ALSO: The dating app glossary: The A to Z of terms you need to know

Finding love (or a fun distraction) shouldn't cost a fortune. That's why we tested dozens of dating platforms to find the best free dating apps. Whether you're an introvert, a college student, or just looking for some steamy sexting action, we've got you covered.

Below, find our top picks for the best free dating apps. Use them to find your forever partner, a casual encounter, or something in between without paying a dime.

Note: All of the free dating sites below have a free membership option that gives you almost everything you need for the full experience. Though most offer paid premium memberships, these aren't apps like Match or eharmony, where you need to pay to do basically anything.

Featured Video For You These dating sites and apps are perfect for people on a budget