#compared to the actresses and non-white actors

[chujo-hime]

This is one of those rare cases where I would hold off blaming MCU fans, because blame's gotta be put where it's due - this 1000% comic book fanboy behavior. Back in 1999/2000, dudebros lost their fucking minds over the thought of a 6'2 actor playing Wolverine. I vaguely remember people bitching about Chris Evans not being blond enough to play Steve Rogers back when that first Entertainment Weekly cover came out. Fanboys love criticizing the actors for any little physical deviations from how the characters look in the comics. Whining about Pedro's mustache is behavior I absolutely expect from fanboys.

Saw this elsewhere as part of the neverending “and he wouldn’t even SHAVE his STUPID FACE” reaction from a certain kind of MCU fan.

Unfortunately, I don’t think they intended for it to send me spiralling because:

OLDER DAVE? OLDER DAVE YORK LIVES?!

(Brb I’m just sobbing into a pillow.)

Anyway, the facial hair “debate” is fucking ridiculous and the amazing F4 fanartist Cab put it best.

[thought--bubble]

Dreamin of You

Modern Dark Actor Aemond X (Non-Famous GF Reader)

Warnings below

Word Count: 3065

Modern Aemond Masterlist

Full Masterlist

Banners by @arcielee

Warnings:: Jealousy, possessive behavior, obsessive behavior, Dubcon, insecurity, unprotected sex (p in v), oral sex (F receiving)

Based on THIS request

"Aemond! Over here!" You cringe at the noise, a man with a camera nearly screeching into your ear.

Aemond shields his eyes, trying to block out the flashing of the cameras as he tightens his arm around you, pulling you through the crowd.

It has been about a year since he got his big break. The leading man on a hit show that streams on Netflix. One of this year's biggest hits.

His life entirely changed nearly overnight, changing yours right along with it. You could no longer go out in public with him. You would be swarmed by cameras and people reaching out and grabbing at him. Women yelled out to him that they loved him.

Oh, how the women scream for him.

It doesn't surprise you. He is handsome and charming, not to mention tall, with a jawline that could cut diamonds.

Aemond used to be a quiet man. Hiding in the shadows. Shy and self-conscious. His disability made him bow out from most social situations unless you were there.

You had met Aemond back in primary school. Growing up beside him, you knew him better than anyone else. Or at least you used to.

The man standing beside you now, curling you up in his arm, is not the same man he was just one short year ago, and the realization hit you recently.

You had accompanied him to a photo shoot as you often do. Watching him flit about the place, shaking hands and charming them all with that beautiful smile. The two female models on set hanging on his every word. One being so forward as to brush her hand on his arm. Which he allowed.

Every day, you felt the pressure of his newfound fame start to squeeze into every facet of your life.

You had never been an insecure person. Never. Now you found yourself constantly comparing.

Aemond had been approached by models, a fellow actress, and even a pretty popular musician, and when you look at them and then at yourself, it's obvious that there is simply no comparison.

He is going to leave you or cheat on you at some point, which has you constantly on edge. You had been denying this, but what man wouldn't? What man would stay with his average before fame girlfriend when he could have a lingerie model? A pop star?

You know that he loves you and you love him too, but sometimes love is just not enough.

That's how you find yourself here. Standing in his living room, watching him update his Instagram after fighting your way through a sea of photographers.

Your stomach feels sick as you watch him, trying to build up the courage to say what has been bouncing around in your head for weeks.

"It's time," you whisper to yourself.

You clear your throat as you gently shake out your limbs. "Aemond? I....I need to talk to you."

"Course." He doesn't lift his head from his phone, no doubt jumping on every notification coming from his social media accounts.

"It's important"

He lifts his head and furrows his brow.

"Everything alright, love?" He turns his phone screen down toward his lap to show you that you have his full attention.

You open your mouth to speak and immediately the anxiety of what you're about to do hits you like a tidal wave. Am I doing this? Really doing this?

Aemond can sense the panic that is coursing through you and stands up and quickly walks to you, taking your hands.

"Don't be afraid, love, tell me what's going on," He squeezes gently. His tenderness makes this all so much more difficult.

"I think it's...... Aemond? I..... I'm leaving" the relief you feel at finally telling him is soothing, it's done. You've said it. No take backs.

"Leave?" Aemond grips his phone tightly, his knuckles turning white as he turns his head from you. "Leave where? Go where? For what purpose?"

"Aemond..... I mean leave..... us. This" You turn your head in an effort to avoid that eye. You know you shouldn't look away. It's you who is doing this to the both of you. What right do you have to be sad?

The gentleness on his face is replaced with shock, and he turns his back to you, taking a few steps away. His silence is deafening, but you want to be fair. Give him a moment to process this.

"I... I just don't think we fit anymore, I'm so happy for you, Aemond. You're so talented, and all this that's happening to you? You deserve it, and i want you to have it." You recoil slightly at your own words. You've been thinking it for months, but saying it out loud, saying it to him. It's so painful. So final. "But, there's no room here for me anymore"

As you feel the all too familiar sting in your eyes, you watch his form turned away from you. You want him to look at you. Let you know that he understands that you don't want to hurt him. That this is what is best for both of you.

Instead, he chuckles, and you're hit with a wave of confusion before he turns around and stalks toward you. "Leaving? You think you're leaving me?" The smirk that creeps its way onto his face sends shivers down your spine.

He clicks his tongue as he reaches you, pulling you in tight against his chest.

"You don't get to leave." He coos. "No, my darling, you'll stay right here." he gently runs his fingers through your hair, the movement comforting and menacing.

The little hairs on the back of your neck stand on end. Who is this? This isn't the Aemond you know. Kind gentle, Aemond.

No, this person is someone else.

His lifts your face to him by your chin and kisses you gently. The way he moves between loving and domineering so seamlessly, it's as if there are two of him.

"You are mine little dove." He chuckles again as he looks down at you, the gleam in his eye, conveying a message that you are having trouble reading.

"Things have changed yes, we will figure out how to make you more comfortable, but one thing remains constant and that is you."

"You don't get to decide that." You wanted to say this with conviction but it comes out weak and feeble. You and Aemond have hardly ever fought and when you do, he wins every time.

Aemond sighs and smiles. "But I do. See i decide if we stay together. Me, and i have decided that we will. Now if there are things that we can work on to make you more comfortable I am happy to do that" He pushes his face into the crook of your neck as he whispers, " It's what's best for both of us"

You push him back, his arrogance finally pushing you over the edge.

"Who are you? Huh? This isn't you! This arrogant, entitled twat!" The dam that was holding back all of your frustrations fully bursts and you can't help yourself from offloading.

"You flirt with models right in front of me, you-"

"IT'S AN ACT!" He explodes, and you jump back, his voice unrecognizable.

"You think I want them? Those vapid cunts?" He grips your arm tight and shoves you down onto the sofa. The movement jarring.

"Don't shove me!" You move to get up but he leans down caging you in with his arms.

"When I sleep, I dream of you, when awake, I dream of you, when I do anything, I dream of you. There is not another for me, not in this lifetime or the next."

You push your body back on the sofa, trying to put a little distance between the two of you. He glares at you for a moment, lowering his arms from the sofa and bringing them to your shoulders.

"If you leave, I will find you, and I will drag you back to me" He slowly drops to his knees in front of you, sliding his arms down the length of your body in the process. "I'll always find you."

Your eyes widened slightly in fear. His love has always been expressed in gentleness, kind gestures, and soft caresses.

"What happened to being partners? Since when have you owned me as you seem to think?"

"I always have." He looks at you, not with malice, not with hubris, but with a look that tells you he takes this to be simple fact.

He pushes your skirt up, and begins trailing kisses up your thigh.

"Aemond.... we shouldn't. " His grip on your thigh tightens, but he doesn't stop. Your mind is telling you to push him away, stop him but your body is succumbing to his dangerous allure, like a lamb to the slaughter.

The closer he gets to your heat, the faster you lose your resolve. He's always had this effect on you. When he kisses you, touches you, loves on you, you all too quickly fall to your knees.

He slides his hand up your other thigh, slipping it under your skirt until he reaches your hip, gently squeezing at the flesh there.

You close your eyes and lean back on the sofa as he continues to lick and nip at your thigh. Every touch of his skin to yours sending currents of electricity through your veins.

"We're gonna be fine darlin" His voice is hynotizing. Just a moment ago you wanted to punch him in the face and now you are spreading your legs wider to give him enough room to fit his face between your thighs.

"That's a good girl, such a good girl" He moves his hand from your hip to your heat gently caressing you through the thin fabric of your thong.

"For someone who thinks we shouldn't be doing this you are very very wet" You feel the embarrasment rush to your cheeks but are unable to stop yourself from gently bucking your hips upward.

Aemond chuckles and clicks his tongue. "Is that was this was all about hmm? Have I been neglecting you sweet girl?" He moves your thong to the side and brings his finger to the wetness pooling there. "Hmmm seems I have, you poor poor thing" He mocks with fake sympathy.

You sigh as he grips your thighs dragging you to the edge of the sofa. pushing your skirt all the way up and exposing you to him.

"So fucking pretty" He leans forward and flicks the tip of his tongue on your pearl. Your leg twitches in response and he pulls his head back.

You groan at his teasing scooting your body closer to his face, as he starts to chuckle.

"Now, now sweet girl. I'm going to need you to admit, that you aren't going anywhere." He lightly scratches at the sensitive skin on your thigh with his thumbnail. You were supposed to break up and leave, This life with him was making you miserable. "Give me what I want, and I will return the favor" He again leans forward and flicks the very tip of your clit twice.

The teasing is starting to drive you to madness, you came into this room with conviction and a plan but it looks like you would leave this room with shame and satisfaction. "Fine! I'm not leaving, I'm not, I promise, I promise!" You feel a mix of discomfiture and arousal coursing through you but at this point you just don't care.

"Mmmmm" is the only sound he makes before again leaning forward and taking your engorged nerve into his mouth and sucking on it harshly.

"Fuckkkk Aem" You bring your hand down and grip his head, pushing his head closer to you and he is more than happy to oblige.

He slides a long course finger into you while he continues to swallow at your pearl. The sensations have your legs shaking uncontrollably, and as if your hips have a mind of their own, they buck gently against Aemonds face as he gives you everything he knows you want.

His finger crooks inside you, rubbing at the pad inside, gently calling your orgasm to him.

"Oh fuck ahhh!" Your whole body stiffens as he quickens the pace of both his mouth and finger.

As you tumble forward into your peak, you squeeze your legs around his head, the blood rushing to your face heating up your entire body. Is this heaven, or have you been tricked into hell?

After you finish sitting dumbstruck on the sofa, Aemond wastes no time. He slides towards you on his knees, wrapping his hand around your waist.

You rest your exhausted head on his shoulder and wrap your legs around his hips. With just one arm he lifts you slightly off the couch and slowly rises to his feet, you feel the muscles in his chest and shoulders tighten as he lifts you and himself from the floor carrying you into the bedroom. His hard cock pressed against you.

"Have I got you all stupid for me, sweet girl?"

You make some incoherent noises as he gently drops you onto the bed and climbs on top of you.

"I love you" He breathes the words directly into your ear, the sadness in his voice not lost on you. He slots himself between your legs tightly gripping your thigh and pulling it up against him.

"You can't ever leave ok?" He roughly kisses you before you can respond while he pulls you closer by the thigh pushing himself up tight against your core. "Not ever".

Aemond ruts against you, still fully clothed. "Can't live without ya." His voice sounds strained like this is taking everything out of him. "Won't live without ya." His movements become more rough, more desperate.

He pulls back from you just long enough to get your panties off, disposing of his boxers and trousers in the process, before slotting himself back between your legs.

He slides an arm under your back, bringing his hand to the back of your neck, raising your face to his.

"All I want is you. All I've ever wanted is you." His lips meet yours in a searing kiss, a kiss that screams don't go.

He pushes himself against your entrance, begging to be let in. You lean back further parting your legs and he pushes forward slowly.

"Fuck, I love you, oh gods I love you" He moans as he fills you up. Once he reaches the hilt, he lies down on top of you, sliding both of his arms under your shoulders before he gently starts to move against you.

Your bodies are pressed together so tight. You can hardly tell there are two separate people here.

"I'll never let you go, I'll never let you go," he repeats this over and over as his speed increases, his voice changing from desperate to domineering.

He grips your shoulders tightly, holding your body in place as he ruts up into you. "Do you understand now? You can never leave. I love you. You're mine. " his thrusts are slowly getting harder, as the heat again builds up in your abdomen.

"Fucking mine. Always mine. Forever mine," he growls the words at you as he bites into your neck.

"I'm gonna fill you up." He bites into your shoulder, pushing himself as far into you as he can get, but pushing ever still. He can't be close enough to you. He can't be far enough inside. Everything feels like it's just not enough.

He pulls back from you, has his speed increases, and his rhythm falters.

"Cmon cum for me sweet girl" He licks his thumb and brings it to your nub pressing down harshly on the nerve, his movements furious.

You whine out, your legs trembling as you feel your lower stomach growing tighter and tighter, the feeling overwhelming but so good. "Aem." You whimper, "ohhh gods"

"No baby, it's just me." He watches in wonder as you reach your peak for a second time, arching your back and yelling out loud.

"That's good. That's a good girl. Fuck yes baby" His movements become sloppy and he grips your hips tightly as he chases his release. "Say you love me," he growls his hips smacking against your skin with a loud slap sound as you moan out riding out the top of your pleasure.

"Fucking say it" he grunts as he tries to hold back his climax, "Please baby say it." His face is contorted somewhere between pleasure and pain until you acquiesce.

"I love you." The words flow from your mouth so delicately, so naturally. There was never a question as to whether you loved him. The question is whether that love is enough.

Hearing the words from your tongue immediately sends Aemond into the climax he was fighting as he screams out like some kind of feral animal thrusting into you harshly as he rides out his high, collapsing onto your chest leaving himself sheathed inside.

"I love you too"

You wake up the next morning to the alarm on your phone going off and grumble, turning it off and rolling onto your side, looking at a sleeping Aemond. Feeling ashamed of yourself for giving into him last night.

As you slide out of the bed to get ready for work he reaches out and grips your wrist tight.

"Where are you going?" His eyes are still closed and his body hasn't moved the only thing alerting you to his consciousness being the hand tightly gripping your wrist, and his voice.

"To work?" You move again to get out of the bed thinking the matter settled.

"Oh, no we are sending your letter of resignation today" He opens his eyes and shifts in the bed stretching but not releasing your wrist.

"Aemond, i'm not quitting my job!" You can't believe he would even think that was an option. You love your job. Why would you quit? Why would he even want you to? You look towards him in utter confusion as he slightly tightens the grip on your wrist.

"You can't go. You might not come back." He yanks you back into the bed crawling on top of you.

"Like I said before. You're gonna stay right here"

To be added to a taglist click here

[shannendoherty-fans]

Shannen Doherty’s Untimely Death Sparks Important Conversations About Healthcare Access And Equity

By Janice Gassam Asare

Shannen Doherty, the actress best known for her roles in Beverly Hills, 90210 and Charmed has died after a long battle with cancer, at the age of 53. In a 2015 statement to People magazine, the actress revealed her breast cancer diagnosis, stating that she was “undergoing treatment” and that she was suing a firm and its former business manager for causing her to lose her health insurance due to a failure to pay the insurance premiums. According to reports, in a lawsuit Doherty shared that she hired a firm for tax, accounting, and investment services, among other things, and that part of their role was to make her health insurance premium payments to the Screen Actors Guild; Doherty claimed that their failure to make the premium payments in 2014 caused her health insurance to lapse until the re-enrollment period in 2015. When Doherty went in for a checkup in March of 2015, the cancer was discovered, at which time it had spread. In the lawsuit, Doherty indicated that if she had insurance, she would have been able to get the checkup sooner—the cancer would have been discovered, and she could have avoided chemotherapy and a mastectomy.

Under the IRS, actors are often classified as independent contractors, which comes with its own set of challenges. Although it is unclear what Doherty’s situation was, for many independent contractors, obtaining health insurance can be difficult. Trying to get health insurance as an independent contractor can be a costly and convoluted process. A 2020 Actors’ Equity Association survey indicated that “more than 80% of nonunion actors and stage managers in California have been misclassified as independent contractors.” A 2021 research study revealed that self-employment (which is what independent contractors are considered to be) was associated with a higher likelihood of being uninsured.

Doherty’s tragic situation invites a larger conversation about healthcare access and equity in the United States. According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, the Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as “Obamacare,” was signed into law in 2010 and revolutionized healthcare access in two distinct ways: “creating health insurance marketplaces with federal financial assistance that reduces premiums and deductibles and by allowing states to expand Medicaid to adults with household incomes up to 138 percent of the federal poverty level.” The ACA helped reduce the number of uninsured Americans and expanded healthcare access to those most in need. It also helped close gaps in coverage for different populations, including those with pre-existing health conditions, lower-income individuals, part-time workers, and those from historically excluded and marginalized populations.

Despite strides made through the ACA, healthcare access and equity are still persistent issues, especially within marginalized communities. Research from the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) examining 2010-2022 data indicated that in 2022, non-elderly American Indian and Alaska Natives (AIAN) and Hispanic people had the greatest uninsured rates (19.1% and 18% respectively). When compared with their white counterparts, Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islanders (NHOPI) and Black people also had higher uninsured rates at 12.7% and 10%, respectively. The Commonwealth Fund reported that between 2013 and 2021, “states that expanded Medicaid eligibility had higher rates of insurance coverage and health care access, with smaller disparities between racial/ethnic groups and larger improvements, than states that didn’t expand Medicaid.” It’s important to note that if a Republican president is elected, Project 2025, the far-right policy proposal document, seeks to upend Medicaid as we know it by introducing limits on the amount of time that a person can receive Medicaid.

When peeling back the layers to examine these racial and ethnic differences in more detail, the Brookings Institute noted in 2020 that the refusal of several states to expand Medicaid could be one contributing factor. One 2017 research study found that some underrepresented racial groups were more likely to experience insurance loss than their white counterparts. The study indicated that for Black and Hispanic populations, specific trigger events were more likely, as well as “socioeconomic characteristics” that were linked to more insurance loss and slower insurance gain. The study also noted that in the U.S., health insurance access was associated with employment and and marriage and that Black and Hispanic populations were “disadvantaged in both areas.”

Equity in and access to healthcare is fundamental, but bias is omnipresent. Age bias, for example, is a pervasive issue in breast cancer treatment. Research also indicates that racial bias is a prevalent issue—because the current guidelines in breast cancer screenings are based on white populations, this can lead to a delayed diagnosis for women from non-white communities. Our health is one of our greatest assets and healthcare should be a basic human right, no matter what state or country you live in. As a society, we must ensure that healthcare is available, affordable and accessible to all citizens. After all, how can a country call itself great if so many of its citizens, especially those most marginalized and vulnerable, don’t have access to healthcare?

[siryouarebeingmocked]

Someone recently claimed that the new Davies era of doctor who has no more wokism* than the show used to.

Now, maybe I've just changed in the past few decades, but from what I've heard of the 60th anniversary specials it does seem a tad more concentrated. Cherry-picking SPOILERS, sweeties.

- Donna got married offscreen. To what I can only assume is the last black cab driver in London.

- Her kid is trans. Specifically, non-binary, female presenting, says the wiki.** - In the next episode, we learn the Doctor is gay/bi when he thinks Sir Isaac Newton is hot. I'd smugly say this bit has no real relevance, but...the actual scene does carry the episode theme of accidentally changing reality. It's just the queer bit that seems tacked on. Though it does carry forward themes from 10s era. - Sir Zack himself is played by a half-Indian actor. It's not exactly hard to tell. I'm assuming they're running on Bridgerton logic. https://twitter.com/frozenaesthetic/status/1731332492282429950 - This episode is basically just Donna and the Doc exploring a weird location, and running into monsters, who happen to look like them. It would be a bottle episode, except for the large vfx budget. And yet ol' Rusty somehow managed to awkwardly wedge in an  progressive issue. - In the next episode, the villain explains how he's just exploiting the divisions that already exist in human society, including cancel culture. - no wait he's got a point. Jpg - This is ironic, given that Davies and/or his broadcasting house masters are pretty blatantly on the team that a) coined the word,  b) cancels people the most often, and c) defends the idea of Internet lynch mobs*** (***as long as they're left wing. If not, they're *ist "trolls", even if they're just complaining about the latest sacred cow.) Maybe the Davies was criticizing his own team. * Because the Toymaker was kind of racist back in the day (white dude dressed like a stereotypical Chinese dude), Davies made the new version a bit racist "as a callback to his original, problematic depiction back in 1966." - TVtropes, ref. DW Unleashed. On the other hand, the Toymaker also mocks and dresses as several other cultural archetypes. All the ones I've seen were white European ones. He just does this to everyone, apparently. - Toymaker also weaponizes the Spice Girls hit "Spice Up Your Life". No, I will not explain. Though I will note that a line about the "Yellow man in Timbuktu" was apparently drowned out in the episode. Probably for being a tad spicy. - One new UNIT character is a lady in a wheelchair. When the new Tardis - no, I will not explain - has a wheelchair ramp, she happily points it out. Which makes me wonder why the blue box would be so limited, considering it often deals with alien species. - Also, the same actress played a disabled Companion in the Big Finish audio dramas. I'm not sure why it was considered essential to do so in an entirely audio format, but there have been controversies over this sort of thing before (EG Artie on Glee, various racial voice acting controversies). - At this point, casting Ncuti Gatwa as 15 doesn't even register. Not really a blip on my radar. Black Doc? Whatevs. His sonic screwdriver has Rwandan words on it? So? I go to church with lots of Africans. Heck, I'm a black immigrant to ol' Blighty myself, just from the other side of the pond. Ncuti is, chronologically speaking, more British than I am. - Though given that he's Rwandan-Scottish, there may be some debate on the "British" part. - Wikipedia says the actor is pretty left-wing, but the actor seems good so far, so I'm willing to give him a sha-

Oh, come ON!

Maybe the original person speaking was comparing it to the Chibnall “history has always been a whitewash” era, which had a character who was a paper thin Trump satire. A tad ironic, when the whole point of bringing Davies, Tennant, and Tate back is to play on nostalgia.

*Tangent: that word was apparently voted  the most annoying words in English. Which is kind of hilarious if you know that it was originally created to self-describe certain progressives. And the "you can't even define that word!" meme was almost certainly ripped off from the right wing "what is a woman?" Meme. ** This is apparently because she's part Time Lord, through Donna. It seems a tad interesting to me that a few works featuring non binary characters happen to make them enby due to some sort of supernatural (Omniscient Reader) or sci-fi (SW Squadrons) influence which the vast majority of IRL enbies don't have. ...As far as I know.

[pickypickypeak]

The kind of Wish criticisms that annoy the hell out of me are the ones where people unnecessarily compare the film to other movies released at the same time and even Disney's older works. There's nothing wrong with comparisons as a "what to do, what not to do example", the issue I have is that these are often be hella biased.

I like the classical and renaissance Disney movies but I would be lying my ass off saying they don't have problems (the racism, characters of color being played by white actors, outdated stereotypes and gender roles). Some people dismiss these issues because they prioritize on their own nostalgia more than improving them. Hell, they say Snow White was the worst princess but when Disney announces a live action remake, they defend her largely because a mixed race latina actress as casted to play her.

Some of these comparisons can be nonsensical if one were to pay attention. They say Trolls 3's villain song is better, even though Mount Rageous a pop cover mashup while This is the Thanks I Get?! is an original in a poo style. They say Puss in Boots: The Last Wish is a better movie about wishes even though TLW's theme is about appreciating life and the family and friends you have while Wish's themes is about encouraging and supporting each others to pursue their dreams. They use Bruce Almighty as a comparable movie yet they let Bruce off the hook despite he misused of his powers out kf laziness and causing the town into brief chaos before fixing it while they villainize Asha for Magnifico's own actions and the non existent "consequences" of returning people their wishes as if Magnifico allowed the non existent "bad wishes" to be in his hoard in the first place (he deemed Sabino's wish as bad because he didn't like knowing people other than him getting attention and he flat out spites Asha and Sabino during the ceremony).

THIS!!! Here’s an example (I probably used it before but it really fits now): some people are like “why have the forbidden book in the first place? It makes no sense the writing for this movie is so bad” well where the hell did the beast get the enchanted mirror?? How does the evil queen have a talking mirror in her castle and no one questions it? Where did the genie’s lamp come from? In frozen we just had to believe elsa was born with ice magic for no reason (they invented lore for the sequel but it wasn’t planned. They were gonna leave it with no explication hadn’t been for the incredible success). Theses are NOT plot holes; they’re just things you’re supposed to not ask questions about in a fairytale. It’s literally not that deep. Or better, you CAN ask questions and maybe imagine scenarios, but a movie isn’t inherently bad for not explaining it all to you. We’re not required to know how the queen got the mirror, or how magnifico got the book. It’s not “bad writing”; you’re just evaluating a disney fairytale movie through average mcu youtuber’s lens (everything needs to be addressed, otherwise it’s poorly written and “it makes no sense” (so what? Does a singing lion and warthog make sense in the first place?)).

Not to talk about the other problems you’ve mentioned; the stereotypes, the gender roles… as much as we love them, ANY movie has its issues. Many things wish gets blamed for, I can find them in other movies too. And actually, some of them aren’t even bad things, or at least they weren’t until wish did it. I’ve seen someone go “asha’s friends are just for the sake of diversity🙄” but like… is that a bad thing? Big hero 6 members were diverse too. Gee, winx are 20 years old and they’re all diverse. How am I supposed to take that criticism seriously? “They’re just forcing diversity on kids” my man I’ll tell you something. Remember when pocahontas (with all its issues) had a whole song about painting with the colors of the wind. Well I know this is shocking news to you but. It wasn’t actually the wind. She was talking about skin colors. The song was about racism. It’s from the 90s.

And the songs comparisons oh my. “Good to be king from journey to bethlehem is a way better villain song than this is the thanks I get” yeah, this is 100% relevant! It totally makes sense to draw a comparison between the guy who killed infants because he was not sure about which one was Jesus, and king magnifico from wish! I’m so surprised king herod’s song sounds so ominous! I’m sure ALL of these people have the journey to bethlehem soundtrack on their playlists and sing the songs out loud because they are SO much better!!❤️

Don’t get me started about the snow white drama, you are absolutely right, people get mad over something they couldn’t care less seconds ago (just like they did for ariel and tinker bell lmao). They’ve been shitting on snow white for years, there’s been ENDLESS youtube parodies and essays about disney princesses and especially snow white being “weak”, “a bad example for girls because she makes chores and settles for a man” and other bullshit but! As soon as the actress playing her (who happens to be not white) says the exact same thing, everyone is like “oh my goddd!!! Disrespect for our snow white!!! A woman can have love dreams!!! Walt disney is turning in his grave!!!” Like wow bro. You suddenly care now. You are so coherent and definitely not racist👍🏻

[mermaidsirennikita]

I’m too afraid that a Wallflower adaptation would be absolutely butchered in an attempt to appeal to non romance fans/puritans pushing for sexless media…

I think several issues would corrupt that show, tbh. Those you mentioned, for sure. Imo, The Wallflowers does a superb job of balancing the standalone nature of a good romance and an ongoing plot. You can read them on their own, but (imo) they are MUCH better when read in sequence, especially Winter coming off of Autumn. But if you adapted them somewhat faithfully, they'd all work in a mini-like way.

But of course, I think people would feel the need to have these dumb subplots to make it less romantic. We'd get some bullshit about Westcliff and Simon doing a business thing, Lillian starting her own company, Daisy going out to be proto-Louisa May Alcott/Eloise Bridgerton. I'm sure we'd see Evie getting abused by her family/sexually harassed by her cousin onscreen, because we super need that.

And I think there would be this need to connect things more than necssary. The books do some of it, right? Like, Westcliff and Lillian do get foreshadowed a ton in Summer, and I do think you have this through-line of their life because Lisa LOVES Westcliff, and the series basically ends with their firstborn coming into the world... Until Christmas, which would theoretically be a great finale/special, where you do see more of Evie and Sebastian because Lisa realized by then where the money shot was for fans lol.

But like. I can just SEE them seeding Evie and Sebastian way more than is necessary to create a continuance, and part of what makes their romance so good is that it is so out of nowhere for both of them. I think Sebastian alludes to seeing her in passing at one point, but he was like "whatever" because she was SUCH a Wallflower.

And I do think they wouldn't do the sex justice. Frankly, I don't really think Hollywood is currently casting a lot of men with leading man potential...? Or like, sex appeal? A lot of them read very boyish. I think a Wallflowers show would ideally be diversely cast, I'm not married to like, a blond white guy playing St. Vincent, but I don't even see where anyone is really getting a lot of actors that could pull off the brusque masculinity of Westcliff or the ridiculous sex appeal of St. V.

I mean, it can be done. Before it went downhill and everyone started fucking with everyone's hair, Sam Heughan and Caitriona Balfe were super well cast for Outlander. (David Barry was toooo.) Interview with the Vampire has not one, but TWO super hot and talented men in the lead. It can be done. But then you've got Bton, where they lucked the FUCK out with casting Rege for the first season, they lucked out again because while Jonathan Bailey is ultimately "a random white guy" visually, he's charismatic, very talented, and had great chemistry with Simone Ashley... and benefited from a first season that for all its flaws was way more enjoyable to watch and set the second season up for success, I'm sorry. Every other leading man on that show is "another random white guy". Put the dudes they have lined up against a Sam Heughan, a Jacob Anderson, a Sam Reid--both in terms of having a Distinct Look and Vibe and talent, it just doesn't compare. Mainstream American casting directors currently are not tapping into the type of mindset that like... the people casting Kdramas are. Or, on a good day, the people casting telenovelas and daytime soaps. The well is DRY. Girls? They can still find talented, charismatic girls. But I feel like, in part because there's such a need to make everything wholesome and it's easier to sell a hot grown ass actress as wholesome and sexy versus a hot grown ass actor.

So. Yeah. I don't know. I just don't think it would be done super well, lol.

Also, they'd completely bastardize the St. V plot in Autumn. That just wouldn't be done today. No fucking way. He'd like, shove Lillian off her horse or something lmao. IF that. There would be no kidnapping. Certainly no threats.

And I'm sorry, but that kinda ruins the whooole thing.

[navree]

Lowkey hate race swapping sometimes. Now hear me out!

I don't mind when people race swap chatacters I just hate it when changing their race would totally change the entire story or have a lot of implications to the story.

I don't mind when fictional charcater race are changed but I hate it when they change a characters race who are suppose to be a certain race for a reason. When they chnage those types of characters a lot of time it changes the narrative of the story and their actions.

Same with historical show or documentaries. If this real life figure was another than they were we would have completely different story on our hands. Like please open a history book.

Listen, when it comes to fictional characters "racebending" means nothing to me unless it's whitewashing (Titans casting a white actor to play Dick Grayson and the MCU casting a white actress to play Wanda Maximoff when they are both literally canonically Romani both ethnically and culturally is my villain origin story) because fiction is fiction, and honestly you can tweak a story to make a character's journey adapt to the new inclusion of them being a member of a minority class so long as you're talented enough. Most writers aren't, and that's why a lot of "oh we made X character a POC in this adaptation" moves tend to ring hollow, but it is possible.

But I have a genuine bone to pick when it's about history.

For one, it's just such a lazy move. "Oh we made Bess of Hardwick Chinese!" fantastic but you do know that Chinese people existed in the late 16th century right? Like, China was a country with a lot of people in it and a thriving culture and way of life and plenty of influential people living there. Why aren't we telling stories about a Chinese woman living in that time period, it's not like that period of Chinese history was dull or as if no one ever mattered or nothing ever happened there. Like, for God's sake, it's just a way of showing that you aren't actually interested in learning about other parts of the world, or decentering Western history, specifically European history, as the only history worth learning about, you just want brownie points for being diverse without actually putting in the work to learn about the vibrant world that existed outside of Europe for the vast majority of human history, aka doing anything to actually explore different non-Western narratives and how the world moved outside of the European bubble.

For two, like you said, a lot of the time "racebending" doesn't really include attempts to accommodate how the history would change. Bridgerton is a wish fulfillment fantasy show so I don't often care about how it deals with history (even tho I do think the Charlotte was black theory is complete bunk and I refuse to engage with people who think it's real) but its whole "and now England is desegregated" thing falls very flat when you remember how involved England was in the trans-Atlantic slave trade, how reliant it was on slave labor, how invested it was in capturing and buying and selling slaves, including the royals. It puts a lot of onus on characters that they've made POC without doing any of the work, and oftentimes deals in a lot of harmful stereotypes. This was seen most egregiously in the 2021 Anne Boleyn show that cast Jodie Turner-Smith as Anne. @duchessofferia discussed this much better than I will, but relying on the same old lazy tropes that have defined Anne Boleyn with a black woman playing her turned into genuinely harmful racial representation. Having Anne be sexually aggressive and domineering and harsh in her mannerisms, especially when compared to Jane Seymour, isn't new, but having a black woman be looming over a small white woman and being sexually aggressive with her feeds into harmful stereotypes about black women and their femininity, and by having George Boleyn also be black, painting him as a sexual deviant and adding a plot where he abandons his responsibilities as a father turns him into the "absent black baby daddy" trope that still does a lot of harm to black men today. Not to mention, changing George Boleyn's race but keeping the rumor about Jane Boleyn lying on the stand to incriminate him turns a "wife turns against her husband for unknown reasons" story into a "white woman accuses a black man of sexual inpropriety that his society would frown on for the purpose of getting him executed by the state" story, which has a long and incredibly dark history in the United States (it's basically the Scottsboro Boys but Renaissance now). I mean, it's basically my primary issue with Hamilton, that the show really wants to capitalize on the whole "America then as told by America now" thing without delving into what it means to have literal slaveowners portrayed by black men and to have the character of Thomas fucking Jefferson call Sally Hemmings by a pet name in that show without any introspection into the fact that she wasn't his girlfriend but, you know, a woman he full on owned and repeatedly raped. It's all surface level and generally causes a lot more problems by refusing to alter the history to deal with these new changes, because it's history and you can't really alter it without creating a host of problems.

With Cleopatra specifically, I mentioned it before but the Ptolemies were total fuckups and literal colonizers in and of themselves, and turning them from a Macedonian dynasty into actual people of color for some kind of narrative (like there aren't any other important women of color in history, or even that time period) while not attempting to even examine the history of that dynasty and that queen in particular doesn't sit right. Like, congratulations, you've now created a story where a woman of color's most important contributions in life were her relationships with white men who held significantly more power than her and over her country, and fucked up to such a degree that her country wouldn't even be considered its own country until the 1950s. How absolutely groundbreaking. Next you're gonna tell me it's subversive to paint Livia Drusilla as a scheming, conniving bitch who manipulated everyone around her, instead of a sexist and tired trope that exists only to demonize one of the few women of actual importance in Augustan Rome because she was half a decade older than her husband and was able to keep her own power after he died. It's not just a lack of intellectual curiosity or good storytelling, but a fundamental misunderstanding of why people want to see stories about people of color, and how Hollywood itself thinks so little of their audience that they think we'll be content with a simple coat of "hey this person's a minority now!" paint over a subject without any attempt to really look into things or understand why the world works the way it does or how these people shaped their lives or the lives of those around them, never mind the new messages you're sending now with these changes.

Ultimately, it doesn't really matter. There's a lot that can fuck up with historical representation in media, and representation of people of color in media in general can always be so incredibly fucked that giving people anything is oftentimes a win in and of itself. But I honestly think that focusing on the same Euro-centric stories and just switching around Pantone skin swatches to do the bare minimum is lazy and insulting. You want me to care about historical stories about people of color? Great, give me historical stories about actual people of color. Let me hear more about ethnic Egyptians, about their lives and their culture and how they influenced history, not ahistorical trash that causes more trouble than its worth and certainly isn't doing anything new or interesting with the subject.

[bohemian-nights]

Adult Rhaenyra is extremely mid as character. Boring flat and did nothing than spread her legs the whole season lmao why is people worshipping her? Is it because the actress is non binary? That have nothing to do with the characterization. Alicent and Aegon is 1000 times better than her and she can't even be compared to Cersei or Dany. She's not even the shadow of them.

Yeah, female Maegor by herself can not carry this show as is. She's too one note. The mark is just not being hit. In regards to the actual actor, I’d say Missy Anne’s cult of deluded self inserters by in large hate Emma’s guts.

If you look back some of these same people praising older!Rhaenyra were calling Emma all kinds of names when they first found out who would be playing their fave. A lot of them also low-key want Milly back(which she was never supposed to be the Rhaenyra, she was actually cast after Emma, but that’s a whole other story).

The only reason why the majority stopped saying stuff is because a. They looked psychotic as hell attacking the actual actor b. They found new targets for their hate(Alicent, Nettles, Laena, etc.) c. At the end of the day, all they care about is white blonde people so as long as Emma shuts up and just plays the character they don't care 🤷🏽‍♀️

[capoteera]

I wonder how non-American actresses who have broken into Hollywood would feel about Alba's comments. Especially ones who aren't white, like Lupita Nyong'o and Cynthia Erivo. /

Anon, how are you even comparing Cynthia and Lupita to Alba? Completely different demographics. There's no way they would ever go for the same roles. Also, I think Cynthia is British. British actors are almost interchangeable with American ones ATP.

.

[frostironfudge]

Silhouettes In the Spotlight - Bucky Barnes - Eleven

Summary: Bucky Barnes has worked immensely hard to have a filmography expanding across genres and garnering accolades from critics, peers and fans. Y/N Y/L/N, with her debut novel (fan-fiction turned New York Times Bestseller) has two other best sellers under her belt. Next is her highly anticipated fourth book lined up for release. SHEILD Productions has acquired the film rights to her debut novel and they want Bucky Barnes to play the lead (aka himself) by any means necessary. This story is about angst, lust, heartbreak, and love. After all fairytales only exist in books and movies right?

Warnings: angst, swearing, it continues discussion of the non consensual things that occurred in the previous chapter also assault of other characters is discussed, where in they describe what they went through at the hands of the same abuser, forced drug use, manipulation, please proceed with caution while reading, minors dni, the first scene describes another person going through a similar ordeal but nothing explicitly described, there is fluff in the chapter too.

Pairing: Actor!Bucky Barnes x Plus Size!Fem!Reader

Word Count: 7.6k || Dividers: @firefly-graphics

Main Masterlist || Fic Masterlist || AO3

Chapter Ten|| Chapter Twelve

HEADLINES:

HYDRA Launches Media Outlet – Print and Digital ‘HYDRA Now’

Alexander Pierce Elated To Be Involved In Delivering News In A Robust Honest Way

Ratings For ‘HYDRA Now’ On Uprise Compared To Other Outlets

Meet Sharon Carter Struggling Actress Turned Assistant Turned News Anchor.

‘Alexander Pierce Is The Most Kind, Noble Man.’ Gushes Sharon Carter.

Former SHIELD Employees Quit. Struggle To Find Jobs Elsewhere.

Brock Rumlow On GQ Cover Speaks On ‘How His Uncle Gave Him The Platform But He Forged His Own Tools For Success.’

The white little pill bubbles as it is poured into the golden liquid. Sloshing in the glass carried over to eager lips. 

Brock watches as Alexander quells his thirst, the pictures being taken. When his uncle took him in, he went through this safety net. 

NDAs and contracts can only do so much for a man being accused. His uncle taught him well. The pictures are placed upon an encrypted drive. Brock seals an envelope writing the author’s address as directed. 

This warning would shut Y/N up. Though she had been laying low for the day, not a peep online or any articles about her. Y/N needed a reminder. 

“Is it done?” Alexander pushes the woman away from him, she still clambers onto his lap, giggling. 

“Oh yeah, this is ready to be dropped off.” Brock gestures to the envelope. 

“Good, we need her to be compliant, we cannot have her leave the publishing house. She is one of the biggest authors we have in our roster. HYDRA will rise to be one of the most accomplished and decorated houses of Hollywood.” Alexander takes another sip of his laced drink, humming at the taste. 

“I suggest we send Rogers and Barnes a reminder as well. If this woman goes to public, they need to be forced to be on our side.” He clicks his tongue. 

“I don’t think they’d pick her over the green in their pockets.” Brock raises a sceptical brow. 

“Love makes people do stupid things, Brock. Why do you think I had to get Dolores away from you?” He looks at his nephew, tiredly as if to remind him they have been over this before. 

Brock controls his response, just giving a curt nod, “Thank you.”

“Now why don’t you take care of this young lady while I rest.” Alexander stands as the woman falls on the sofa, dazed and laughing at the world swirling around her. He leaves footsteps echoing on the smooth Italian marble. 

Brock steps into the office and retrieves the necessary gifts for Barnes and Rogers, heading towards the foyer handing the envelopes to the security who would know what is to be done. 

Grabbing the woman he takes her towards the garage, where a taxi waits to take her back to the address they know. 

Steve’s hands shake as he spots the envelope left on his doorstep. Immediately he calls Bucky, they used to get these in synchronised timing. 

“Did you get one too?” He skips the pleasantries. 

Bucky stares at the envelope, swallowing down the lump in his throat, “I did.” He affirms. 

“Do you want to come over?” Bucky questions, wanting to sink into the floor. 

“Open it together.” Steve agrees, grabbing the envelope and heading back towards the parking lot. 

When the line cuts, Bucky does sink to the floor. The ominous envelope was on his doorstep as he returned from your apartment. 

He lifted it with his gloves on, placing it on the kitchen island. Alpine keeps her distance as well from the envelope as though knowing it holds the vile shit that he was put through. 

Bucky’s phone rings and he looks down at your picture overtaking his screen. 

“Feather.” He finally breathes, you sniffle. 

“What's wrong?” He sits up, spine straightening as dread fills him. 

“After, after you left, there was a knock.” You recount as the pictures fall onto your bed from your hands. 

“James it’s, it’s the pictures from, from… that night.” you close your eyes, hot tears brimming over. Scalding your cheeks. 

Bucky stands, shoving his envelope into a bag, putting the harness on alpine and her lead. 

“Put them back in the envelope and don’t look at them. I’m heading over, Steve will be there too, is there a thumb drive?” Bucky’s question has your chest clenching in pain. He’s been through this before is a sickening realisation. 

“How many times has he done this to you?” You ask, hating the way he’s silent. 

“Feather, I don’t want to add onto—,”

“James.” You plead.

“It’s more than counting on your fingers.” His admission burns in his chest and your veins. 

“Don’t plug in the thumb drive into your computer, don’t look at the photos anymore okay? I’m on my way over.” He fills the silence as you stare down at your palm, the lines on your hands blurring as more tears form. The call cuts off. 

Bucky takes the stairs with Alpine, she senses the urgency and trots down them with ferocity. 

He texts Steve to meet at your apartment. The walk to your wing of the complex is quaint, Sam having tipped paps off to be at his “front” gym so they could get peace and quiet. 

Entering the code for your building Alpine moves towards the elevators and meows at them. He admires her momentarily then calls for the elevator. 

When he texts you to open the door your appearance is still distraught. Bucky wants to whisk you away from everything, your eyes are puffy yet again. 

Your bottom lip quivers, then you look down at Alpine, she chirps at you and you lose it all. 

Enveloping her in your arms as you cry and she begins her purring to soothe you, Bucky’s embrace joins in after the click of your door, you clutch onto his arm. He kisses the top of your head. 

Half an hour later you’re still curled against him on your couch. Steve looks at the pictures with clenched teeth. As the pictures progressed Bucky could hear the conversation matching the images, he had his fists clenched, the vibranium whirred loudly. 

Alpine was in your mom’s room napping next to her feet.

They opened their own envelopes, a blank expression masking their faces, the reminders of those blurred nights haunting them. 

Bucky worries when you look at the pictures, but your eyes trace over his manipulated youth with sorrow. The women wrapped around young men who thought this was normal. That it was okay to be so lost in the haze of smoke and mirrors. Who didn’t know any better.

You're sick to your stomach when their pictures with Alexander come up. It isn’t staged like yours were, he actually touched them. He forced himself on them. 

It worsens when you reach the pictures of them together Alexander caught pictures of both of them in compromising positions with each other.

Steve shifts his blue eyes to you, his lips pressed to a thin line. Mind swirling at what would you think of them. He already was on thin fucking ice with you. He shifts his eyes to Bucky, who is staring at him harbouring the same worry.

“Were the two of you drugged too?” You ask first, heart shuddering in your ears.

“We don’t remember much of those nights.” Steve admits in confirmation, “It won’t matter, the two of us had the whole party boy persona going for us, clubbing, alcohol, recreational relaxing drugs…” he trails off looking to the side.

Your jaw clenches, fists formed on your thighs. You wanted Alexander to pay, you wanted him to rot in the depths of hell.

“He told us, if pictures of Steve and I got out, it would hurt our reputations, the comments, losing our main fanbase of women, the dark party prince and the fun times maestro.” Bucky points at himself then Steve, “We remember flashes, him pushing me down. Forcing himself on us, I remember him saying, whoever gets him off better gets the better role.” 

Your eyes close, bile rising to your throat at the vile shit the two of them were put through. 

“But we got smarter after a while, our contracts got better at protecting us, we stopped drinking what he gave, and carried our own mini bottles.” He sighs, the torment flashing through his eyes.

“We didn’t even realise we were fooling around, too far gone into the happy drugs and new money.” Steve gives a humourless laugh, “The fans picked up on our behaviour changes, we got less interactive, interviews were clipped. I almost checked into a mental health facility.” 

Your lips part, “Why didn’t you?” 

“Golden boy goes to rehab.” Bucky shakes his head, “How will it look? The best of the best, crippled by his own mind?” He quotes the old headlines.

“Dark prince of partying spotted outside a prominent mental health clinic – is he losing his edge?” Steve quotes too.

They exchange a glance.

“It went to shit at the movie during which I lost my arm.” Bucky explains, “We both wanted to quit.” He admits.

“We even had contingency money arranged between us, brand deals, we worked ourselves to the bone.” Steve sighs, “Any show, any advert, any movie, we didn’t care, we just wanted out. Wanting out meant paying off SHIELD. Essentially buying our freedom.” 

“Then the fights happened between us when stress got too much, I told him he needs a breather.” Bucky runs a hand through his hair, “He was working himself to the bone, stunts were sloppy.” 

“It was a buddy cop movie, think sort of Rush Hour. Alexander pushed us to do our own stunts, so we trained like mad. Best shape of our lives. Bucky was right, I was exhausted. Hopped up on caffeine to stay awake and prescribed sleeping pills to make me sleep.” Steve shakes his head, then gives another laugh, 

“This fucker was doing the same thing.” he points his index finger to Bucky, your eyes follow the movement.

“Asshole figured it out, he still was out of it that day. The stunt was his, but we told the director it made sense I’d do it. Alexander wasn’t there that day of the shoot. We know now that it was predestined to go wrong, as per what he said.” Bucky swallows, vibranium fingers flexing and gleaming in the sunlight through the blinds.

“Everything crumbled, I tried to be there, then we fought more, none of us could get out. Alexander came then, saying I should go to Hydrangeas, they turned my image from party boy to serious guy. Bucky lost out two and half years of work and life. Things soured.” Steve extends his head back against the headrest, closing his eyes.

“Best friends to enemies, he wrote in the book. Divulged shit I trusted him with, SHIELD had a field day throwing me out putting him on a pedestal and then bringing me back. Full sleeves and gloves. Other production houses just made being an amputee into the storyline. Or they would make digital alterations.” Bucky reached for your hand, tracing over the bandaged index finger.

“We could say nothing, do nothing. Unspoken promise was we’d save anyone else from this bullshit, I warned Loki not to sign on as a resident SHIELD creative.” He adds. 

“I warned Ace when they asked while working together on Defending Jacob.” Steve traces over the calluses on his palm.

“You had already signed on, I couldn’t protect you. I thought pushing you away was the key. So I kept my distance, but I couldn’t help myself to be selfish to steal a place within your heart.” Bucky admits with a smile.

“I wanted to piss you off enough that you’d refuse working on the project. Valarie told me you had yet to sign, I didn’t know you already had. Combined with the fact that the two of you were falling in love. Chemistry in elevators off the charts.” Steve rolls his eyes.

Your skin heats recalling the stolen moments. 

“Dickhead.” Bucky throws the pillow.

“Asshole.” Steve throws it back.

“Jerk.”

“Punk.”

You laugh at their banter, the two of them smile at you. Elated at seeing you crack a smile. 

Bucky presses a soft kiss to your temple. Steve continues to smile at you. 

Your phone rings and it’s Andy’s text, you look at Bucky and then Steve. The former holds your hand and the latter walks around sitting next to you to offer his support. 

Andy: we’ve got your tox screen result back and other test results, please let me know a convenient time to set up a meeting again. We will meet at any location you deem comfortable. 

Steve and Bucky look at you. Bucky rubs his thumb over the back of your hand. Steve hesitates before placing his hand on your shoulder. 

You only freeze momentarily before realising the person is familiar and safe. 

“I’m sorry.” he begins to retract his hand, you place your palm above his, it had only been twenty four hours but you knew you had to begin to get through this before your mind got the best of you. 

“Steve, you're a friend and you feel safe.” You assure him. He gazes at you then it flickers to Bucky. It is only then he notices that Bucky is worried too, he only touches you when you initiate contact.

You were on a time limit you feared, so you were trying to remind yourself, who were your safe people. Who you could run towards incase of adversity. 

You looked up at Bucky to find his gaze already upon you. 

“It won’t happen.” He says with such sincere surety, reading your mind. 

You believe him. 

You had to believe him.

Turns out when the FBI is involved, you can’t meet wherever you want. Andy is still apologetic, you brush off his look with your own understanding one. 

Steve still glares at his brother on your behalf. You roll your eyes then you realise Bucky is glaring at Andy too. 

“Will you both stop it?” You whisper. 

The camera in the corner seemed daunting. They don’t relent. You suppress another eye roll and look at Andy apologetic on behalf of the two of them. 

Matt moves his hands over the book in front of him, lips moving barely as he reads. 

The door clicks open, two agents walk in one wearing glasses, her curls looking amazing and suit tailored perfectly. She exudes badass energy. 

The man accompanying her is slightly taller, crows feet line around his eyes as he smiles kindly at everyone. His suit slightly dishevelled and he takes another sip from his coffee cup before placing down the manila folders on the table. 

“Hello Ms. Y/N Y/L/N, I am Special Agent Darcy Lewis this is my partner,” he gestures towards him, he waves,

“Special Agent Scott Lang.” He puts his hand forward and you shake it and he moves towards Bucky and Steve also shaking their hands. 

“Executive Assistant Director of Criminal Investigation.” Andy adds, pointing at Darcy, she smiles. 

“She’s trying to be humble, Andy.” Matt chuckles, Darcy laughs. 

“Yes, yes I am.” She takes a seat and you feel at ease at her demeanour. 

“Now, Ms. Y/L/N, is there anyone in this room you want gone? We are about to discuss your case in detail, in case you don’t want someone here to know or see we can have them escorted outside.” She looks at Bucky and Steve. They only look at you. 

“They can stay, I trust them.” You declare, Yelena had decided to remain outside before you could even ask her to come in. 

Loki was going to be questioned when he came in later, already having Bucky and Steve here was enough to draw attention.

Darcy goes through the folders set down by Scott, humming when she reaches the one she desired. 

“Some of these images may be disturbing, they may remind you of what occurred and what you went through. Gentlemen, these may be triggering for you as well. We have a clinical psychologist on standby, please do not hesitate to let us know.” She offers a small smile, the three of you nod. 

Spreading the images out, you feel the wave of nausea. It isn’t the same pictures as Alexander had sent, these are the ones Dr. Cho took, of your injuries. 

Bruised back, cheek bone, and wrists. 

Cut along the bruise on your cheekbone. 

Bite marks on your shoulder. Indents of his teeth. 

You shudder, reaching for their hands. Steve and Bucky grasp your hand each. 

Then the picture of the broken skin along your tattoo. 

Bucky’s gaze hardens and jaw visibly clenches harder, his hold on your hand remains soft, caring, a stark contrast to the rage within him.

“Now, do you remember how you got any of these?” Darcy breaks the silence. 

You reach forward tapping the wrists and cheekbone and tattoo’s images. 

“I remember bits and pieces, I don’t know why. I know Alexander slapped me or backhanded me several times. It was a mix to get me to comply. Brock held down my wrists first because I was moving too much? Then I felt sort of numb? We were on the ground when he took my fingers in his mouth, while he was threatening James and Steve.” Your grip on their palms tightens. 

“It's okay, I know it is hard and you’re doing really well.” Scott gives you an encouraging smile, “We’ll help you understand why your memory feels that way.” 

He takes out another paper from a different folder. 

“This is your blood report, you were administered with a sedative, but you were given a conscious sedation. The water tested came back positive for Rohypnol,” scott concludes. 

Bucky closes his eyes, “He planned it all didn’t he?” 

“Of course he did, he wanted to cover all fucking bases.” Steve seethes, his gaze flickers to Andy as he notes down further points to have their case remain stronger.

“The drug laced water caused your initial bout of delirium, you couldn’t walk properly, the dizziness you reported. Your memory gaps are likely because of it.” Darcy explains looking right at you. 

Scott gestures to the picture of your right forearm, two small puncture wounds. 

“We also found a mix of other sedatives and drugs in your system, which explains the puncture wounds caused by injections. Likely the ones that caused your physical movements to shut down to get you to comply.” Scott taps the paper where the complicated drug name is written. 

“Are you having any symptoms?” He looks up from the paper. 

“Nausea, I threw up a few times last night… Sleep isn't that great either but it hardly has been since the past few weeks.” You shrug, “I can’t stomach heavy food yet, soup and crackers or toast is the way right now, nothing too um cheesy, Bucky tried giving me ice cream, it’s a thing we do on hard days… I cried when I couldn’t stomach that either.” you wince. 

Bucky nods, the memory flashing in his mind he thought you were crying out of panic but the tears came about because a comfort moment you shared with him was ruined. He assured you, he said it would be okay the two of you would be eating ice cream in no time as he held you.

“Understandable it’s been under forty eight hours still, that should pass but it’s better you progress with food over another two days.” Darcy collects the images back, tucking them into the folder. 

Andy places three envelopes on the table, the two agents look at him. 

“They received gifts.” He gestures with his head to the envelopes. 

“Simultaneously, this morning at around eleven.” Matt adds, he tilts his head as they put on gloves and go through the pictures. 

Darcy looks up at Steve and Bucky. 

“You realise these implicate the two of you for illegal substance abuse.” She quirks a brow. 

“We were hoping in exchange for this further evidence to take down our favourite Hollywood biggie, we work out a deal for my clients.” Matt provides a charming smile when Darcy gives an exasperated sigh her eyes narrow into a mini glare. 

“Now, Agent Lewis, I am playing nice and not the devil.” Matt quips, still smug. 

“What are you proposing?” She twists her lips to one side. 

“Full immunity, no charges against them for their substance abuse, yes they were stupid using these drugs before but a major part of it was forced.” Andy places the demand. 

Scott shakes his head, “How do you both still face this asshole?” 

“With a shit tonne of hatred.” Steve says.

“Massive self restraint.” Bucky adds. 

“Put this into processing.” Darcy moves the envelopes towards Scott, he produces a larger evidence bag from his jacket. 

“I dabble in magic.” Scott chuckles seeing your surprise. 

“That's cool.” You say amused, he flicks his wrist and a flower appears, he hands it to you. You laugh. 

“My daughter loves it when I have tricks up my sleeve.” Scott grins as you give a chuckle, “Only she has the best sense of humour.” 

Steve rolls his eyes, Andy kicks him from under the table, the two brothers scowl at each other. 

Bucky catches the exchange, he only smiles looking at the smile gracing your features. 

“I can offer no charges, I, however, require full cooperation.” Darcy looks at everyone, “This case is high stakes, I want this man behind bars as much as you. If you have secrets, know they will come out since we will pry into everything.” She warns.

“You do what you need to, I don’t care if I have to spy on him for you.” Bucky leans forward, “He took from me, I’m not letting him take from her or take her away.” His voice is laced with emotion despite the cold front he’s putting up. 

“I appreciate the sentiment, Mr. Barnes. However, this doesn’t work easily like the movies.” Darcy taps the table, “He’s declared to harm the two of you in case Y/N blows the whistle on him. Her case is as sensitive as yours, she’s unfortunately got more to lose than a man. Your need for vengeance and justice is understood and felt. He’s a vile man. My team and I will not rest till we get him.” 

“If I may?” Matt requests the floor. 

“By all means.” Darcy offers the floor. 

“I understand the emotional response. I truly do, Agent Lewis is correct in heeding you both not to react emotionally.” Matt’s opened palm gestures to Steve and Bucky. 

Both of them scowl. 

“You need to understand, if this goes south, if he catches a whiff. There is no prediction of his reaction and how severe it will be.” He concludes. 

“Which means no disrespectful comments or egging him on, or any of the other stupidity.” Andy looks at his brother then Bucky. 

They nod. 

“It applies to you too, Y/N.” Andy turns his gaze to you, it’s softer almost reminding you of Steve’s gaze. 

You nod, “Understood.”

“He may ask you to do things for him, to blackmail you. Remember to record these conversations. The state of New York allows recording conversations if one party is consenting.” Darcy informs you.

“Preferably record videos so it proves you are not tampering with evidence.” Scott adds.

You look towards Andy and Matt.

“It’s our best effort to pin blackmail on him.” Matt purses his lips then sighs, “I know you may not agree, you may want to retaliate but know that he is serious about these threats.”

Matt’s words leave a sour taste in Steve’s mouth. He knew first hand Alexander’s warnings should be heeded. 

“We’ll comply.” He says, looking at you and Bucky, “We have to keep her safe.”

“We’re doing this for her.” Bucky’s words have you feeling some type of way.

“And for yourselves.” You remind him.

Steve gives you a half hearted smile, Bucky only looks down at your bandaged hand.

You’re exhausted as you lay in your bed. They made you recount the whole ordeal again. Your fingertips brush over your cheeks, how do you still have tears left? The night was restless; you wondered if asking Bucky to stay over would have helped.

Sighing you make your way to your door then your mum's, you smile seeing her asleep. No marker’s of pain on her face. 

Grabbing your laptop you make your way to the hall then pause blinking at the people sitting and grinning at you. 

Loki, Ace, Steve, Yelena, Natasha, Angel, Sam and Bucky. 

The small table is covered with food, different take out boxes and soda cans, and a laptop is connected to the TV. Brooklyn Nine Nine is lined up to play. You look from the screen to them, tears brimming your eyes. 

“I love you all.” You set your laptop down, they all lunge forward enveloping you in a group hug. 

“We love you too.” Yelena smiles, you beam brightly at her. 

 The group settles into a comfortable rhythm, soft laughter, food being shared. You’re sitting between Yelena and Ace. Loki and Bucky joking around, Steve laughing at their antics. He’s still getting used to Loki being hot and cold but he knows he deserves it. 

When the call button chimes, Natasha and you help your mom on to her wheelchair and bring her out. Bucky switches out to Nailed It pressing play. They fill her plate with food that isn’t spicy and take turns helping her eat. 

You end up taking so many pictures, your heart full as well as your belly. It’s unsaid but you can feel the love of this small family you’ve found amidst the chaos.

Your mother meets your gaze after she looks at everyone laughing along the episode. Dessert was eaten and now a comfortable silence envelopes only broken by the laughter and occasional joke. 

She gives you a beaming smile. Her hand reaches for yours, you grasp it between both of yours, it’s warm, you smile.

“I used to worry, of how I could leave you all alone.” She says misty eyed, you’re about to protest, but she stops you by raising her other hand.

“I used to, then I worried more after your dad’s accident.” She continues then looks around the room once again. Everyone meets her gaze, Steve pauses the episode.

“I see now though you’ve found a family for yourself.” She smiles, “I don’t need to worry anymore.” 

“We’ll take care of her.” Natasha says, the others nod in agreement.

“I know you will, and she will take care of you when you need her too.” Your mother smiles, running her palm over your head.

“She takes care of us all already.” Bucky admits, “You’ve raised her so well.” he praises making her smile.

“You do realise that makes us all your kids right?” Loki grins cheekily. Steve nods, “I agree.” 

“I do think you’re the best mom.” Ace adds, grinning.

“Yelena and I can have the papers drafted.” Natasha laughs when you shoot her a look.

“Oh don’t worry she won’t adopt Bucky.” She teases you, Bucky’s cheeks tinge pink.

“Nat.” He groans as everyone laughs at his expense, he meets your eyes from across the room.

“We’ll make her your mom in some way.” You tease him, hinting at the future you do see. 

“I love you.” He says, making your own cheeks warm.

“I love you too.” You say to him.

Everyone coos at the two of you.

@/godofmischief: [uploads story to instagram]

[story deleted]

@/lokiismybabie: HOLY FUCK HOLY FUCK @/ithinkimetbucky LOOK WHAT LOKI UPLOADED THEN DELETED HOLY SHIT.

[ attached screenshot, image from Y/N’s house, Angel, Sam, Loki, Bucky, Y/N, her Mother, Steve, Yelena, Natasha gathered around the couch, smiling at the camera, captioned: ‘we all got adopted today – found family’ ]

@/ithinkimetbucky: OH MY GOD OH MY GOD THEY ALL ARE FRIENDS AND HOLY SHIT BUCKY AND Y/N ARE SO CUTE HER HEAD RESTING ON HIS SHOULDER– @/buckymademelikebooks GET ONLINE NOW

@/buckymademelikebooks: HOLY SHIT HOLY SHIT HOLY SHIT WAIT IS THAT A CUT ON HER CHEEK OH FUCK?

@/buckymademelikebooksmore: guys my account was deleted @/ithinkimetbucky where did the tweets go?

@/ithinkimetbucky: @/buckymademelikebooksmore girl get on IG DMs lemme explain there what we’re theorising

@.y/nwrites: hi guys, i know there was a picture uploaded by loki it was supposed to be on his private instagram stories and we’ve all been there with the wrong upload lol. The reason I'm coming on is because several people are speculating about several things and I just want to clear up a few things: 

A. I got into a little mishap on the stairs of my apartment complex which led to my injuries, I've been told to rest for recovery. No broken bones so that is great,

B. My found family is taking care of me and mom and we’re so thankful for them,

C. Also thank you to my readers and everyone who messaged to check in on me i’m so thankful for you all as well and as a treat I wanted to release Rhys’ extended point of view of planning the recreation of their first date night together in the same place (basically how he got the flowers) so check your inboxes a link should be there and if not you can sign up to gain exclusive access!

Thank you, I love you all!!!!!!!

@/ithinkimetbucky: @/buckymademelikebooksmore so guess the theory was wrong…

@/buckymademelikebooksmore: i’m so glad she’s okay and has people taking care of her, was so worried sick!

@/buckymademelikebooks: woohoo my account was reinstated!!!!!!!!!

HEADLINES:

Dolores Back In The Cast Of ITIMYIMDO! 

Author Y/N Spotted Outside Since Bombshell Announcement to Support Dolores’ Return

Fans Not Happy About Return Start Petition On Website Again!

Natasha Romanoff and Y/N Y/L/N Spotted Arguing Outside SHIELD Building, The Director Leaves The Author In Tears.

Bucky Barnes and Steve Rogers Come Together For Charity Marathon, Seems Being Found Family Of Y/N Mended The Friendship.

A.N.: i missed you all! i hope to be more regular in updating, please let me know what you think!

Taglist is Open comment or DM to be added!

Taglist: @stevesmewmew @elle14-blog1 @crazyunsexycool @sebsgirl71479 @pandaxnienke @slutforsexyseabass @eclecticpatrolroadlawyer @pandaxnienke @vampire7595

[destinyc1020]

Tbf I see some of the other TZ blogs I normally love, casting shade on anyone who they think remotely poses a 'threat' to T or Z's exclusive supremacy, anyone remotely in their orbit and white. That means shading Austin, Sydney, Timmy, Maude, JE, even Jake G, Jennifer Aniston, Reese, whoever doesn't align with the orthodoxy of Tomdaya Supremacy. A lot of it is quite hypocritical because they body shame e.g. Sydney and say she's using her boobs to get ahead, but Z's tactics for rising to fame (showing up everywhere, using her figure and fashion) were somehow aceptable while's Sydney's strategy is not? To me they are exactly the same.

The only actresses they consider as non-threats and acceptable are Florence (although that is about to change now that she's single and in a movie with Z) and Amanda.

Mmm....I'm not sure which Tomdaya blogs you're referring to Anon lol, and I haven't even seen any other TZ blogs mentioning/discussing these other people, but ummm.... I'll just take your word about that I guess??

LOL at "Orthodoxy of Tomdaya Supremacy" 😅🤣

***Take a seat Anon, because this is gonna be long....

Anyway..... Did it ever occur to you that maybe some blogs just don't like those other actors/actresses (for WHATEVER reason) and it has absolutely nothing to do with Tomdaya/or Tom and Zendaya at all? 🤷 Just a thought....

RE: JE... I think most people probably dislike him mainly for the fact that it's pretty clear that he did Z wrong, he seems to have done MANY girls wrong in the past, and his personality in general just isn't all that likeable (no offense). 👀  I don't know the guy personally, so obviously I can't really speak to how he truly is lol, but he low-key comes across as a douche... Just being honest! He poses and models in his underwear (which, hey...no judgement there!), but then goes and complains about how he HATES being considered a sexy heart throb, and complains about not getting good roles that are on his talent level. Like, okay??? You can't have it both ways lol. He also bad-mouths his previous filming projects (especially TKB) ALL the time in interviews.

RE: Sydney... Some fans don't trust Sydney because she was liking thirst tweets about Tom when she works with Zendaya who she KNOWS at least dated the man at some point in the past... It was just sus. (REAL TALK) Yet again, with Sydney.... She's another one.... She poses half naked all the time, takes off all of her clothes for her films (again, NO judgement!), but then complains that she's not being taken seriously as an actress. 👀

Look, if you're gonna go nude, fully embrace it! It's a CHOICE. No judgment. But then to do that and then complain that you're seen as a sex kitten.... Idk... Seems kind of contradictory to me.

You can't even compare Sydney and Zendaya. Zendaya doesn't go nude for her roles, and even if she did, she hasn't been complaining about not getting good roles or being seen as a serious actress for doing so. Z was hustling to get noticed early on in her career, but I don't ever recall her complaining about it. And Timmy?? Who's threatened by Timmy??😅 If anything, it seems some fans are foaming at the mouth wanting a Timdaya romance lol.😅🤣 Most fans know that Timmy and Z are just buddies and are cool with that.

And these other people you mentioned....Jennifer Aniston??Reese? What?? Like, which blogs are hating on Jennifer and Reese?? Are you sure these people aren't just sharing their opinions about actors/actresses and this has nothing to do with TZ at all? I don't even see why Jennifer's name was mentioned lol. She's not even in Tomdaya's age bracket lol 😅 Where are you getting this info from?

Besides... RE: Sydney and Florence.... If you want to know why perhaps some Tomdaya fans aren't gushing over them, then you might want to blame that on Tomdaya ANTIS who have been trying to cram Sydney and Florence down our throats for years as being the women that Tom will one day leave Zendaya for.... (which is even laughable to even consider 🙄). So if some Tomdaya fans aren't really "fans" of Sydney and Florence, then maybe that's why? Some antis try to push any white girl as being a "match" for Tom, even when it doesn't make ANY sense whatsoever, and it's also very disrespectful to Tom and Zendaya and their relationship. So, blame the Antis for that one Anon. That might also be why SOME (notice I said some) Tomdaya fans don't care for Timmy either. So many antis and Timdaya shippers trying to cram Timmy down our throats claiming that Zendaya is going to cheat on Tom with Timmy (again...LAUGHABLE 🙄).

So, blame the Antis for that one anon lol. 😅

ANYWAY....

As I've already said here before, I'm not "threatened" by anybody.... I feel like there's more than enough room in Hollywood for a LOT of actors (and actresses) to be GREAT. 😊 I like a LOT of various actors and actresses in Hollywood for various reasons (as I'm sure you all have noticed), so there's nobody who I feel "threatened" by, nor do I feel the need to hate on other actors/actresses just to raise Tom and Zendaya up. To me that's silly. 🙄 TZ aren't the only actors or actresses in Hollywood that I like in other words. I just appreciate a LOT of people's work (I'm a huge movie fanatic after all), and I'll give credit where credit is due. Plain and simple. 🤷 I only give my honest opinions here on my blog...as I've stated time and time again. 😊 Nobody has to agree, but one thing I'm always going to be is HONEST about what I feel. Now, granted, how I feel about a certain matter may not be the reality of what's going on, but I'm always brutally honest about my thoughts/feelings about a particular actor/actress.

I'm not even a "Tomdaya Blog". I've mentioned before that I'm not a Tomdaya blog. Tomdaya is nowhere in my blog title lol. 😅 I blog (and reblog) about anything that I find interesting. Tom and Zendaya are just a large part of that, but I also have interests in other actors/actresses/films etc as well! 🤷

Like I said, I can't speak to other blogs....And I hate when blind claims are made without even so much as a link for proof so that I can see what is being referred to.... 🥴

But overall, everyone is entitled to their own opinions on their OWN blogs... Plain and simple. 🤷 It's their right to post whatever they want on the blog that THEY own. If you don't like it, then maybe take that up with them, or just don't follow? Idk... Seems like a simple solution to me. 🤷

[gay-ghostwriter]

If The CW was remaking Avatar instead of Netflix:

-The whole show takes place in a normal American city. The main characters are all high school students

-Bending is an ancient lost Asian martial art form that’s connected to Aang’s family somehow

-Aang is supposed to be Chinese but is played by a 25 year old white guy. He has abs now.

-Zuko is the only one played by a non-white actor. He and Aang constantly fight over Katara, also his scar is barely noticeable compared to the cartoon

-The fight scenes look like Dragon Ball Evolution

-Katara and Sokka are white but their grandma is played by a Native actress

-Azula, Mai and Tai Lee are gay, but in an uncomfortably sexualized and super homophobic “evil lesbians” way

-Appa is a Shiba Inu. Momo is a cat. 

-There’s a cgi dragon that lives in Aang’s head, which is the live action show’s version of the Avatar State

[mermaidsirennikita]

what’d you think of the emmy’s?

There were a few things I disagreed with in terms of awards:

--No idea why everyone is still losing their shit over Julia Garner. She is boring, and having silently sat beside my mom on the couch while she watched the latest season of Ozark--the entire sum of her performance in that season was nothing compared to Sarah Snook playing Shiv's reaction to her mom telling her she shouldn't have children. Next.

--I would've had Elle Fanning win Best Actress in a Comedy but I had no realistic expectation of her winning and I'm happy with Jean Smart getting her dues always.

--I had no realistic expectation of Nick Hoult winning either, but Jason Sudeikis winning was... Lmao, Ted Lasso is so mid, y'all. It's not horrible. It's not great. It's just flat, and is it even? Really? A comedy? From the Ted Lasso-heads I know, it seems that s2 was not super FUN. Brett Goldstein does a good job with his material, but he shouldn't have gotten a second Emmy, I'm sorry. Let's stop the steal here.

--Squid Game... is a good show. Do I think it deserved what it won more than Succession? Not really, no. Am I happy that non-English shows (especially Korean) shows are getting recognition? Yes. Do I expect the Emmys to keep it up after patting themselves on the back? No. I think they'll go back to ignoring all of the great productions being made around the world. And here's the thing--I won't pretend to be an expert on Korean cinema or TV, but I have watched a good bit of it in a variety of genres, and like... I do think that with Squid Game, there was a lot of "ooooh, aaaah" from western audiences in a way that made me uncomfortable. Because they missed the point. It's similar to what happened with Parasite. You liked the spectacle and saw it as WILD and EXOTIC, but did you absorb the criticism and message? No, because now there's going to be a Squid Game reality show, and the creator of Squid Game has to act happy about it so that he can keep his ties up with Netflix. NICE. And the reality is that Squid Game is being treated like this phenom that proved, at last, that Korean TV could compete with the *HIGH STANDARDS* of western TV, when there have always been great Korean TV shows, and indeed many that were better than Squid Game. So it's like. I'm happy on some levels but on others I'm very skeptical of the Emmys MEANING IT.

--Jesse Armstrong should've been allowed to make fun of the queen dying as much as he wanted and everyone should've laughed their asses off because it was funny and points were made. Homeboy is British, his taxes have gone to keeping that family in golden toilet seats, he can mock her all he wants and frankly if he said worse I'd applaud.

--Jimmy Kimmel needs to go, and we've known this a long time, but that shit was foul.

--I said Zendaya would win and Zendaya won. I am super happy for her, she's the real thing and deserves the fuck out of it.

--Happy for all the Abbott Elementary wins! I only started watching last night after the Emmys because time management, but my mom is a Big Fan so I'd known of it and of course I knew of Quinta from way back on Buzzfeed. What a success story.

--MATTY MAC WON AND IT WAS SO DESERVED. AT LAST. I love Kieran but Matty Mac has been my "dude who should get a best supporting actor win first" on Succession since season 1, so.

--Very happy for Amanda winning in the most stacked category of the night, but I wish she and Toni Colette could've broken that award in half. They were both super deserving.

--Lmao wild to me that Michael Keaton beat Oscar Isaac (and a couple other guys in that category) but ya know not everyone has good taste.

--White Lotus is meh but Jennifer Coolidge and Murray Barlett are superb talents who killed it on that show so. Happy for that. Less happy for all the Mike White love because the show really is just kinda like... Idk, it had its moments but I don't think it had a point, at least not one it reached effectively.

--I wish the bits would stop.

[jiannguo]

I don't understand why bjyx accounts even exist anymore. Like how can anyone think that there's anything between them at this point? Some stuff I've seen is ridiculous. Like "oh, Xiao Zhan posted a picture that has bread in it, it means that he misses wyb" or "both of them posted spring festival pictures that have chicken feet, it must mean that they're together celebrating." I even saw one that said that the red envelope that Xiao Xhan got last spring festival must be from wyb bc it's so pretty his parents probably wouldn't have made the effort. Like why wouldn't they have, and to my understanding as a non-Chinese person is that that's not how that works. Like wtf?

I personally don't think there's anything between them except maybe friendship or just an acquaintance, but to shippers it doesn't matter. There's ships for XZ with Reba, LiQin, YangZi, even Liu ShiShi (The other day I stumbled on a XZ and YangYang ship 🤣).

I saw someone yesterday compare a black and white photo of XZ and WYB imdividually saying its a CP pose 🤣 In reality, it's just an emo pose in b&w taken by hundreds of other actors as well. Not to mention these two photos in question were taken more than a year apart.

And not every brand that puts red and green together are promoting their CP (like wtf abt Christmas lmao).

Every single international CP fans have a similar tag line, exact same like was used many times before "their Chinese shipper fans know everything but they're protecting their relationship *cough every CP out there*"

Also it's hard for them to realise that majority of actors, whatever they wear in public events or ads are "given" to them by the sponsors, which would also require permission from the brand. (There have been Chinese actresses who got in trouble with brands who wore their outfits without permission, and brands forced them to delete every photo). So no... brand outfits aren't CP outfits. Almost every brand item gets worn by someone else after work is complete.

I feel the reason why their presence feel too much on international social media is because XZ's biggest international hit is CQL and the international fanbase have stemmed from there. But in reality in CN, they're not a big fanbase compared to both the actor's individual fanbase (just compare their numbers). They're just loud, and when they scream SZD everywhere, it's just them screaming that they're shippers or fujoshis, which makes it so weird in itself...

I ignore them for the most part, frankly speaking most are pretty much stuck at CQL, they hardly talk about or promote their latest dramas. They pretty much survive on these oddball stories that make its way from weibo, embellish and spread them. They would never look at Gu Yiye for instance 😆😆 It soooo breaks their fantasy!

I am an ex shipper from Addicted/Guardian fandom, so getting out of this whole business, have provided a lot of clarity on how CP fandom actually thrives. And there is a huge backend financial interest behind it (they make a ton on CP merch, infact any outsider vendor who just even hints at promoting the two gets sell out too). Here's another example, there are douyin/wechat accounts which is a pay as you go, you have to pay to enter and get candy.

I can keep going on and on, but honestly my only request is if you like Xiao Zhan, watch and promote his works. That is the kind of fan we should be.

His personal life, none of our business.

[thealexchen]

I’m excited for the atla live action, but I’ve heard there was a lot of colorism involved in the casting process, so I don’t know if I can support it. I’m conflicted

Hi anon, that's a very valid concern and I totally get where you're coming from. I know, for example, that there's a lot of debate on Twitter over Kiawentiio and Ian's casting and prioritizing lighter-skinned/white-passing Indigenous actors, and the whole controversy about Ian's race.

The casting for this show was always going to be imperfect and complex. You could also argue that casting a Cherokee actor and Mohawk actress for Inuit-coded characters risks conflating all Indigenous tribes together and treating them like a monolith, just like with Asians. And they haven't even cast Toph yet; I'm sure that there will be debate whether they cast a sighted or legally blind actress. These characters are just so specific in their appearances, skin tones, and abilities that translating it perfectly to live action (age, voice, martial arts, acting ability, personality) is a very tall order. Overall though, I still want to support it because if it's successful, this could possibly be the biggest North American production with a completely non-white cast ever, and there are plenty of Asian crew members behind the scenes compared to the very white (and male) cast and crew in the original cartoons.

[allkinds-oftrash]

The Crown S5E10 Commentary

Non-Spoiler Review: That was so underwhelming. It just sealed to me what an uneventful season this was. I feel like Peter Morgan only went off on Ep 3, 4 then 7 to 9 then called it a day. I don’t know what exactly went behind the scenes to make him chicken out of going full on with the punches like he did in S4. Anyways here’s my live reactions as I watched it but I’m too annoyed to do a proper season review so lemme direct yall to my lovely mutual @mermaidsirennikita Caro’s post that outlined everything I felt about the season (I do disagree on some points but I’ll cover that in my post tomorrow or something when I’m done being mad - also hi Caro its viscountessevie’s side acc lol) 

Spoilers Under The Cut

Dodi and Mohammed!! I've missed them Shksjs Dodi is officially an LA producer Not him bidding against Michael Douglas for a house

The way I really thought it was gonna be Diana 🤡🤡 But it's just Barbara Gordan Sr (Erin Richards played her in Gotham) bdjdjdk

LMAOOO DIANA VOTING NO FOR THE MONARCHY Isn't this a lie tho?? I'm pretty sure she wanted William on the throne eventually... Oh well fiction wise it's fucking funny This voting scene is brilliant I love it so much What a great cold open!

(I forgot I watched the cold open last night before falling asleep and am rewatching this bit again for my commentary and GOD IT'S EVEN MORE HILARIOUS A SECOND TIME)

Oooh it's Lizzie's birthday Lmaoo not her getting gag gifts from everyone BUT CHARLES Between the boring ass book he got for Di and this, he really is the worst gift giver huh Not Chucky being jealous of Pedodrew's stupid gift Damn Charles really is a masochistic always watching these programs that make him upset Lmaooo not Edward and Pedodrew taking the piss out of him

God Queen Mother shut the fuck up you racist bitch "The Great Chinese Takeaway" 🙄 For fuck's sake and everyone laughing. God fuck these racist asses. Yeah this might be a fictional scene but YOU KNOW these bitches have said worse things behind closed doors. I cannot WAIT til the Queen Mother dies; she's so insufferable. Yall did not compare the liberation of a former colony to an ex attending a wedding jfc yall are the worst Charles is gonna fuck up the Hong Kong trip just watch

Random tangent but Fly Like An Eagle is on Glen Powell (Hangman in the Top Gun sequel)'s playlist for his character and now there's a plane while the song is playing, I fully expected Glen to come out of that plane why am I like this 💀💀

Anyways hiii Dodi what a cutie Is Barbara Gordan Sr playing his wife? Nope she is not. Who is Kelly?? Why do we need to know her Is this scene necessary Peter Morgan?? OH?? HE'S SLEEPING WITH HIS ACTRESS?? Dodi wtf don't be one of those gross producers Oh wait is that his fiancee he dropped for Diana oop Also why did I think she was his ex wife that happened way back in the 80s dhdjkd I'm sorry but I did not need to see that scene lmao it could have been an email Dodi really has a type huh Ew he's doing coke God he really became a Hollywood cliche huh I mean I never knew much about him so I can't say if this is accurate or not but if it is, bro why did you become a Hollywood cliche

I never followed Tony Blair's politics but we like him right?? In that case, Charles you're nothing like him How has the second Mrs. Al Fayed not aged at all 👁👄👁 It's been at least a good 7 years since Ep 3

Don't be fucking crude Mou Mou Let them speak their native language Kelly Yeah it's rude but you're giving White Woman rn djdkkdkd Heini is right lmaooo Okay actually they did do well with her make up to age her a little

WHAT?? His only talent is women??? "One day you'll hit the jackpot"???? What does that meannnn Mou Mou Peter Morgan are you implying Dodi was a golddigger omg This is so uncomfortable pls Kelly is like ???

Damnn let's go Labour Party let's gooo Ohmygod that's Tony Blair?? Huh the one time the irl person is more attractive 💀💀 the actor is fine but Tony Blair was a DILF back in the day come on

Tell me why I feel sad John Major lost 😭😭😭 He was just so nice this season dhkdjd Lmao this historians convo is so meta especially since Peter seems to have a bias for John Major and have given him a hot actor and made him really chill and cool this season Lmaooo Lizzie you did not just say he's your favourite PM LOL bro it's fine the Brittiana is old af time to decomission her

"The youngest Prime Minister since Lord Liverpool in 1812" WELL Rishi Sunak is coming for that title 25 years later yall "And you're still a young man too" LIZZIE STOP LYING HE'S GOT A FULL HEAD OF WHITE HAIR Johnny Lee Miller playing him doesn't make him less old djdkkd

Can you imagine if the note to Blair had said "GET OUT WHILE YOU CAN" lmaooo Johnnn why you lying "A great job" as if you didn't spend this season just babysitting the royals

This boat nonsense plot line is so fucking stupid and pointless. Peter Morgan THIS could have been an email. I do not care for this shit at all They just sound like rich brats which we already knew they were So you could have used another example to show that

NEW BRITAIN SHDJJDJS This is so stupid omg It's just a fucking boat Lizzie let it go

Like I get sentimentality and all but don't anchor (pun absolutely intended) yourself and your sense of self worth to a old piece of metal Like That I would be alot more sympathetic (because we all have sentimental things tied to our memories)1 if they weren't old rich white people who caused so much pain whining about a luxary no one else can afford and expecting the government to keep funding it

HAHAHHAH HE'S IN BUSINESS WHILE THE REST ARE IN FIRST CLASS PLEASEEEE I CACKLED "You're going to have to be very brave" 💀 Camilla it's just business class yall need to calm the fuck down

What the fuck is this visual Mans is not left out of anything This visual metaphor falls so fucking flat when he's literally usually the one drawing the curtain on people Peter Morgan what are you doing

Omggg the Cantonese burning the British flag What icons They're so right for THAT

Okay Heini has grown on me Girlie really grew into her place in the Fayed family huh Good for her "You were so much more than a model. You were a socialite" MOU MOU WHAT This is so cringey pls

I have gone 20 mins after the cold open without Diana WHERE IS SHE Oh lmao here she is I missed you bby Awww her friendship with Mou Mou is everything I wanna h u g her Her voice is always on point I'm shook

God the flashes give me such anxiety The foreshadowing really gives me the deepest pit in my stomach Oh gosh the offer to Saint Topaz,,, the beginning of the end 😭😭 I don't want her to goooo Yeah Elizabeth took a few eps but she finally grew into the role as Diana we love to see it!

We hate Charles but damn doesn't Dominic look good in a uniform God I hate it here Also booo let Hong Kong be it's own country just passing it off to another country I can't even I get so anxious seeing the rainfall on everyone's head they're gonna catch a cold Dominic lost the Charles voice, it needs to be steeper bud

Charles don't be fucking weird Why did you link the ages to her relatives and husband and now son Don't say it Nope yall are not brothers stfu He said it 🤡 Welll he made Blair say it

Lmaooo Blair sick of the yacht talk too hsjjdkd Why do you feel bad sir?? Bruh it's just a boat 💀

YALL JUST GOT DIVORCED A YEAR AGO - Chill the fuck out Chucky Lmaoo Blair is right he was going behind Lizzie's back and briefing against her They always do this They brief against one another It's messy af

The amount of Charles cocksucking happening in this episode is gross Peter Morgan WHAT did he threaten you with Why are you trying to make him out to be this modern innovative man Was he??? Was he really??? Charles so self serving I cannot LMAO NOT CAMILLA WITH THE KNOCK OFF REVENGE DRESS YOU WILL NEVER BE HER

"Friendly invasion" Okayyy China whatever helps you sleep at night

Helloooo Martin,,, I really am a simp for Martin huh. Listen this season hasn't given me a single person in the main Royals other than Diana to feel anything for So Martin's hotness it is I can't believe I'm saying this: but Lizzie should have said No 😭😭 Martin snitching on Chucky hsjdjdk She's gonna TEAR HIM APART

There's 12 minutes left and this is such an unimpressive finale wtf Peter Morgan bruh what are you doinggg I told myself I won't follow press after the mess than is the Bridgerton production team But I NEED to know what Peter was thinking outlining this season The potential was there and yet it flopped Only Eps 3, 7 to 9 were solid episodes

Lmaooo affair "Divorced man whose wife is still alive" I'M SCREAMING Can't believe I'm agreeing with Charles abt his rls rn Oh never mind fuck you Charles No one brought up Diana why you gotta drag her name through the mud K Chucky sureee Camilla has Did their spin doctor write this episode??

SCREAMS "I don't think it's my behaviour threatening its (the monarchy) survival" Rip him apart harder Lizzie come onnn Yesss throw the whole monarchy away Yeah they yeeted yall cos you OPPRESSED THEM FOR 50 YEARS, idiots

I feel nothing for this stupid ship and her farewell God this is so depressing and underwhelming This ep should have just been the cold open only tbh If you aren't gonna commit to the end of the Diana era then leave it all completely to S6 which is so disappointing, I thought they were finish Diana's story this season I was mentally prepared for that And now I gotta be sick again worrying about it and then mentally prepare for it again before S6

That's it??? That was so underwhelming???

40 mins of white people whining abt their boat and losing a country to independence Then 15 mins of Diana's death foreshadowing?? 5 mins of Dodi being a Hollywood producer cliche and Mou Mou being a dick to Kelly??

That's all??? Bruhhhh