In a recent interview with Jimmy Fallon, actress Shailene Woodley discussed the unexpected thrill of having famous faces in the audience during her Broadway play. The 33-year-old star reminisced about recognizing George Clooney, her former co-star from The Descendants, while performing in Cult of Love. Woodley revealed that initially she preferred not knowing about special guests but eventually found it beneficial to be aware. Her experience highlights the unique dynamic between actors and their audiences, especially when celebrities are present. She also mentioned other notable visitors such as Zoe Kravitz, Iain Armitage, and Betty Gilpin. Woodley emphasized how Clooney's distinctive laugh made his presence unmistakable and how his attendance positively impacted her performance.
Woodley appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon to talk about her time on Broadway. When asked by Fallon if she preferred knowing about celebrity guests beforehand, Woodley explained that at first, she did not want to know. However, as the play progressed, she began to appreciate being informed. "There is a sheet where you can sign in guests who visit backstage," she said. "One day, I saw some familiar names, and my heart raced." Despite initial panic, Woodley discovered that knowing about special guests enhanced her performances. "As an actor, there’s a part of me that enjoys playing differently when someone specific is watching," she noted. "It actually improved my acting."
During the conversation, Woodley shared anecdotes about various co-stars who visited her play. One particularly memorable moment was when George Clooney attended a performance. His laughter stood out to her, making his presence evident. "He has such a unique laugh," Woodley remarked. "I could hear it clearly and thought, 'Oh, there’s George somewhere.' " Woodley praised Clooney for his exceptional character and expressed excitement rather than nervousness during his visit. Reflecting on their past collaboration in The Descendants, she recalled how easily they bonded off-screen, which translated into their on-screen chemistry.
Woodley’s Broadway play, Cult of Love, tells the story of four adult siblings reuniting at their childhood home for the holidays. The production opened on December 12 after previews began on November 20. Meanwhile, Clooney is set to make his own Broadway debut in March, starring as Edward R. Murrow in a stage adaptation of Good Night, and Good Luck. This film, which Clooney directed and co-wrote, explores CBS news journalist Edward R. Murrow’s exposé on Senator Joseph McCarthy. As Woodley concludes her run in Cult of Love on February 2, both actors continue to explore new artistic ventures on stage.
Through her experiences on Broadway, Woodley has gained valuable insights into the impact of audience awareness on performance. Her reflections highlight the intricate relationship between actors and their spectators, especially when high-profile guests are involved. By embracing this awareness, Woodley has not only improved her craft but also enjoyed the added excitement of performing for distinguished audiences. Her journey underscores the evolving dynamics within the theater world and the mutual appreciation between performers and their fans.
On the latest episode of Call Her Daddy, former Bachelor contestant Rachael Kirkconnell shared intimate details about her breakup with Matt James. The couple, who had been together for four years, ended their relationship after a tense dinner in Japan. Kirkconnell revealed that the tension began the night before when she felt overwhelmed by the pressure to find suitable dining spots, a task made more challenging due to James' career demands. Despite initial harmony during their trip, a disagreement over restaurant selection escalated into a significant emotional breakdown. The following day, deeper issues surfaced, leading James to express concerns about compatibility and accountability. Ultimately, the relationship concluded abruptly, with Kirkconnell returning to Atlanta just hours after their final conversation.
Kirkconnell recounted how the strain started during their recent trip to Japan. While initially everything seemed fine, the 28-year-old felt an increasing sense of pressure as they filmed every meal for James' career. "I was feeling very overwhelmed," she said, explaining that finding the right restaurants became a source of stress. On the night before the split, she asked for help choosing a dinner spot, but James dismissed it as unimportant. This led to feelings of frustration and disappointment. When they finally arrived at the chosen restaurant, it wasn't what she expected, causing her to shed tears. "We didn’t speak much during the meal," Kirkconnell recalled, highlighting the growing rift between them.
The next morning, tensions flared further. James questioned why she got so emotional over what he considered minor issues. "He found it concerning that I got that emotional," Kirkconnell explained. She felt misunderstood and punished for expressing her feelings. Later, when they discussed their irritations, James expressed worries about certain qualities that he believed would be problematic in a wife. "There were just qualities about me that he worries about having in a wife," she said. These concerns, coupled with issues around accountability and saying sorry, became pivotal points in their breakup discussion.
Despite the heated conversation, the couple went to bed that night with things seemingly calm. However, the following day, they revisited their annoyances, which quickly spiraled into a larger argument. James ultimately decided to end the relationship, leaving Kirkconnell to return to Atlanta. Just two hours later, while preparing for her flight, she saw James' cryptic Instagram post announcing their breakup. This sudden public announcement came as a shock, especially given their previous discussions about wedding plans. In February 2024, James had told PEOPLE that they were aligned on their future plans, including marriage. "We wouldn’t be together if that wasn’t the same goal," he had said, indicating a promising future that now seemed distant.
Reflecting on the end of their four-year journey, Kirkconnell's candid account reveals the complexities and pressures that contributed to their breakup. The combination of career demands, emotional misunderstandings, and deeper compatibility issues ultimately led to the dissolution of their relationship. While they had once envisioned a future together, the reality of their differences proved too challenging to overcome. Kirkconnell’s openness provides a glimpse into the personal struggles behind one of the most high-profile relationships from The Bachelor franchise.
Queen Elizabeth II's legacy continues to be celebrated through the names of her descendants. Several members of the British royal family have chosen to honor the late monarch by including "Elizabeth" as a middle name for their children. This tradition highlights the deep respect and admiration they hold for Queen Elizabeth, whose reign was marked by unwavering dedication and service. From Princess Anne to Princess Beatrice, multiple generations have embraced this tribute, ensuring that the Queen's memory remains vivid in the hearts of future royals.
The Tradition Continues: A Closer Look at the Names
In the heart of the United Kingdom, a beautiful tradition has emerged within the royal family. Following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022, many of her descendants have chosen to immortalize her memory by naming their children with "Elizabeth" as a middle name. This gesture reflects the profound impact she had on her family and the nation. The latest addition to this lineage is Athena Elizabeth Rose Mapelli Mozzi, born to Princess Beatrice and Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi in January 2025. Athena joins a distinguished list of royal babies who bear the Queen's name, including Princess Anne, Lady Sarah Chatto, Zara Tindall, Princess Beatrice, Lady Louise Windsor, Isla Phillips, Princess Charlotte, Lena Tindall, Lilibet Diana Mountbatten-Windsor, Sienna Elizabeth Mapelli Mozzi, and others. Each name tells a unique story of love and reverence for the late Queen.
Princess Anne, the Queen's only daughter, was named Anne Elizabeth Alice Louise, carrying forward the tradition from the very beginning. Her granddaughter, Zara Tindall, also honors both her mother and grandmother with her middle names. Princess Beatrice, known for her close relationship with Queen Elizabeth, chose to name her first child Sienna Elizabeth and her second, Athena Elizabeth Rose. Similarly, Princess Charlotte, born to Prince William and Kate Middleton, carries the middle names Elizabeth and Diana, paying homage to both Queen Elizabeth and Princess Diana. The tradition extends to even younger generations, such as Lilibet Diana Mountbatten-Windsor, named by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, and Lena Elizabeth Tindall, born to Zara and Mike Tindall.
From grand ceremonies to intimate family gatherings, these names serve as a constant reminder of the Queen's enduring influence. The choice to include "Elizabeth" in the names of royal children underscores the deep bond between generations and the lasting impact of Queen Elizabeth II's remarkable life and reign.
As we reflect on this touching tradition, it becomes clear that the legacy of Queen Elizabeth II will continue to thrive through the lives and names of her descendants. This act of naming not only preserves her memory but also strengthens the familial ties within the royal family. It is a testament to the profound respect and love they hold for the late Queen, ensuring that her spirit remains alive in the hearts of future generations. The inclusion of "Elizabeth" in the names of these young royals serves as a beautiful symbol of continuity and reverence, bridging the past with the present and future.