Lady Gaga is making waves in both the music and film industries once again. On Tuesday, the multi-talented artist and Oscar-winner announced the release of her latest album, titled Harlequin. This album is set to serve as a companion piece to the highly anticipated film Joker: Folie à Deux, in which Gaga stars alongside Joaquin Phoenix. The film is the follow-up to the 2019 hit Joker, directed by Todd Phillips, and Gaga will portray the iconic DC character Harley Quinn, opposite Phoenix’s critically acclaimed portrayal of the Joker.

Gaga’s announcement, shared through an Instagram post, revealed that Harlequin is slated for release on September 27. The album will feature 13 tracks, with intriguing song titles like “Good Morning,” “World on a String,” and “The Joker,” giving fans a glimpse into what could be the mood and thematic elements of the project. Known for her ability to blend storytelling with music, Gaga’s involvement in both the film and its soundtrack suggests that the album will be tightly woven into the movie’s narrative, offering listeners an immersive musical experience that complements the film’s dark and complex tone.

For days leading up to the announcement, Gaga had been dropping hints through cryptic messages posted on her Instagram page. These teasers, which included mysterious phrases and what appeared to be audio snippets from unreleased tracks, built anticipation among her fans. One such post simply read, “I’m ready for my interview,” while another stated, “Moondust gets everywhere,” leaving fans to speculate about their meaning and connection to the upcoming album or film.

The decision to release a companion album for Joker: Folie à Deux is a bold one, but it’s not entirely surprising given Gaga’s history of creating music that resonates deeply with her roles in film. Gaga’s previous forays into movie soundtracks have been met with widespread acclaim. In 2019, she won an Academy Award for Best Original Song for “Shallow,” the hit song from A Star Is Born, in which she starred alongside Bradley Cooper. That song not only topped charts but also became a cultural phenomenon, showcasing her ability to merge her musical and acting talents in a way that elevates both mediums. Additionally, she has been recognized for other movie-related songs, including “Hold My Hand” from Top Gun: Maverick, which earned her another Oscar nomination in 2022, and “Til It Happens to You” from The Hunting Ground in 2016, further cementing her reputation as a powerhouse in both film and music.

The announcement of Harlequin has raised excitement about what new dimensions Gaga will bring to the character of Harley Quinn. Harley Quinn, also known as Dr. Lee Quinzel, is one of the most beloved and complex characters in the DC Universe. Her origin story as a psychiatrist who falls in love with the Joker and eventually becomes his partner-in-crime has been explored in various films, TV shows, and comic books, but Gaga’s portrayal promises to bring something unique to the table. Her well-documented ability to channel emotion through her music will likely lend itself to a deeper exploration of Quinn’s psychological and emotional state, which could resonate both in the film and on the album.

While fans eagerly anticipate Joker: Folie à Deux, which is set to hit theaters on October 4, Gaga’s album will offer a sneak peek into the world of the film just days before its release. The timing of the album launch could work to build momentum for the film, with the music acting as an atmospheric prelude that enhances the audience’s anticipation for the cinematic experience.

What’s particularly interesting about Gaga’s involvement in this project is that Harlequin is separate from her upcoming seventh studio album, which she has also been teasing on social media. Earlier this month, she announced that the first single from her next studio album will drop sometime in October. This highly anticipated album will be her follow-up to Chromatica, which was released in 2020. Chromatica saw Gaga return to her dance-pop roots and was widely praised for its high-energy production and introspective lyrics. The fact that Gaga is working on two distinct albums simultaneously speaks to her relentless creativity and her ability to navigate multiple artistic avenues at once.

Fans are now left to wonder how Harlequin will differ from her studio album, which appears to follow a more traditional pop format. Given that Harlequin is tied to Joker: Folie à Deux, it is likely to have a darker, more theatrical tone compared to the more mainstream pop sound of her forthcoming studio project. Gaga’s versatility as an artist means she can shift effortlessly between genres, so it will be exciting to see how she balances these two very different musical endeavors.

The supporting cast of Joker: Folie à Deux adds even more intrigue to the project. Along with Gaga and Phoenix, the film will feature a stellar ensemble including Zazie Beetz, Catherine Keener, Brendan Gleeson, and Ken Leung. This cast of highly regarded actors suggests that the film will be as character-driven as its predecessor, with Gaga’s Harley Quinn likely serving as a key focal point. Her chemistry with Phoenix will undoubtedly be closely watched, given the intensity of his performance in the original Joker.

While little is known about the plot of Joker: Folie à Deux, early reports suggest that it may incorporate musical elements, making Gaga’s role and her Harlequin album even more integral to the film’s storytelling. The decision to potentially turn a psychological thriller into a quasi-musical is an audacious one, but one that could pay off in spades if executed well, especially with a performer of Gaga’s caliber involved.

Twin sisters Tia Mowry and Tamera Mowry-Housley were household names in the mid-1990s, beloved by fans for their starring roles in the hit sitcom Sister, Sister. The show not only showcased their chemistry as sisters but also helped them rise to pop culture stardom. However, as time has passed, their close bond has reportedly changed. In a clip from Tia’s upcoming WEtv show My Next Act, she opens up about the evolving dynamic between her and Tamera. The show follows Tia’s journey as a newly single mother after her divorce from Cory Hardrict, and she reflects on the state of her relationship with her twin sister. “It’s times like this when I feel and wish that my sister and I were still close, and I could pick up the phone and call her,” Tia revealed in the clip. “But that’s just not where we are right now.”

While the Mowry twins may no longer be as close as they once were, their story is not unique. Many famous duos who shared deep personal or professional bonds have found that maintaining close relationships over time can be difficult. Here are nine other examples of famous pairs who show how tough relationships can be.

Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele: A Comedy Tragedy

Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele are widely regarded as one of television’s funniest pairs, with their popular Comedy Central sketch show Key & Peele cementing their place in comedy history. Despite the success, the duo eventually went their separate ways to pursue individual careers—Key primarily acting in front of the camera, while Peele shifted to directing, earning accolades for films like Get Out and Us. While there are no signs of animosity between them, Key recently told People magazine that they “don’t see each other that often anymore,” lamenting the distance and calling it “a tragedy.”

Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie: A “Simple” Friendship Turned Complex

During the early 2000s, Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie became the ultimate reality TV duo on The Simple Life. Their antics captured audiences’ attention, but behind the scenes, their friendship reportedly endured some turbulence. The pair feuded during the show’s run, and after it ended, their relationship seemed to go through various ups and downs. In a 2018 interview on Watch What Happens Live, Richie revealed that she hadn’t spoken to Hilton in “a while.” However, the two have continued to support each other as they’ve grown into motherhood and entrepreneurship. Recently, they announced a reunion for an upcoming show on Peacock, signaling a renewed professional connection, even if their personal bond isn’t as close.

Liam and Noel Gallagher: The Britpop Battle Brothers

The Gallagher brothers of Oasis fame have had a famously contentious relationship. Oasis was one of the biggest bands of the 1990s, with Liam and Noel leading the Britpop charge. But the band’s success couldn’t prevent sibling rivalry from taking over. The duo’s public spats eventually led to the band’s breakup in 2009, with Noel stating that he “simply could not go on working with Liam a day longer.” Yet, despite the bad blood over the years, fans were thrilled to hear the brothers would reunite for an Oasis tour next year. It seems they’ve set aside their differences, proving that even the most tumultuous relationships can evolve.

Jack and Meg White: From Rock ‘n’ Roll to Rupture

Jack and Meg White, the powerhouse duo behind The White Stripes, were more than just bandmates—they were also once married. Their music captivated fans, especially with hits like “Seven Nation Army.” Despite their divorce in 2000, the Whites continued to work together as a band for over a decade, but the strain eventually became too much. The White Stripes disbanded in 2011, leaving fans heartbroken. Although Jack White has continued to find solo success, the pair’s relationship remains distant, with little public interaction since the band’s dissolution.

Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman: More Respect than Friendship

As co-hosts of MythBusters, Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman became icons in the science and entertainment world. Fans loved watching the two test out myths, explosions, and everything in between. However, despite working together for 14 years, the duo never developed a close friendship. In a 2014 interview, Savage admitted, “We aren’t friends,” but emphasized that they shared a “deep amount of respect” for each other. MythBusters came to an end in 2016, and while the two parted ways professionally, Savage continued with MythBusters Jr., keeping the show’s legacy alive, even if their personal bond was not as strong.

Daryl Hall and John Oates: From Hitmakers to Courtroom Adversaries

Daryl Hall and John Oates were once one of the most successful pop-rock duos in history, making waves with hits like “Rich Girl” and “You Make My Dreams.” But their working relationship took a dark turn when Hall filed a lawsuit against Oates in 2023, claiming ownership disputes over their music portfolio. In a May 2023 interview with Variety, Hall confirmed that Hall & Oates was officially over, marking the end of a decades-long partnership that had brought so much joy to fans. Their legal battle serves as a stark reminder of how even the strongest creative duos can be torn apart by business matters.

Desus Nice and The Kid Mero: A Late-Night Comedy Split

Desus Nice and The Kid Mero were a dynamic comedic duo, making waves with their late-night show Desus & Mero on Showtime. The show’s success followed their earlier collaborations on Complex TV and Viceland. However, in 2022, the pair shocked fans by announcing that their creative partnership was ending. Mero later revealed on his podcast 7PM in Brooklyn that creative differences had driven a wedge between them, and as of early 2023, they still weren’t on speaking terms. It’s a prime example of how even the most innovative collaborations can unravel over time.

Robert Plant and Jimmy Page: A Zeppelin Not Quite Ready to Fly Again

Led Zeppelin was one of the most influential rock bands of the 1970s, but the band’s trajectory changed with the death of drummer John Bonham in 1980. While Robert Plant and Jimmy Page went on to have successful solo careers, rumors of a Zeppelin reunion have persisted for decades. However, in a 2014 interview with the New York Times, Page expressed frustration, stating that Plant wasn’t interested in reuniting, despite the other members being open to it. Page’s comment—“He’s just playing games, and I’m fed up with it”—revealed how difficult it can be to mend fractured creative relationships.

Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel: No Bridge Over Troubled Water

Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel, the legendary duo behind hits like “The Sound of Silence” and “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” met in the 1950s and enjoyed a wildly successful career together. However, artistic differences led to their split in 1970. While they’ve reunited for performances over the years, including a 2010 series of shows, they haven’t created new music together since their breakup. Their enduring rift underscores how even the closest creative partnerships can face insurmountable challenges.

On Tuesday, Taylor Swift made her political stance clear by endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris for the 2024 presidential election, putting an end to speculation about her views. Swift announced her support via Instagram shortly after Harris’ debate with former President Donald Trump, emphasizing the importance of voter research and transparency.

In her post, Swift highlighted the importance of staying informed about the candidates’ policies and stances on key issues. She also addressed concerns about misinformation, particularly a recent incident where AI-generated images falsely suggested she endorsed Trump. This experience heightened her awareness of the dangers posed by misinformation, leading her to be more transparent about her voting intentions.

Swift praised Harris for her leadership qualities and her choice of running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. She described Harris as a “steady-handed, gifted leader” and commended Walz for his long-standing advocacy on issues such as LGBTQ+ rights, reproductive health, and women’s autonomy. Swift’s endorsement reflects her commitment to supporting leaders who champion causes she believes in and her desire for a calm and competent leadership team.

In addition to endorsing Harris and Walz, Swift encouraged voters, especially first-time voters, to register and vote early. She provided resources and links in her Instagram story to help her followers with voter registration and information on early voting. Her post concluded with a light-hearted self-description as a “childless cat lady,” a reference to a term used by Sen. JD Vance, Trump’s running mate, to disparage Democrats.

Swift’s political engagement began more prominently in the 2018 midterms when she endorsed two Democratic candidates in Tennessee. She has since been an active supporter of Democratic policies and candidates, using her platform to advocate for women’s rights, reproductive health, and LGBTQ+ rights. Her 2020 documentary, “Miss Americana,” revealed her regret over not speaking out on political issues sooner, emphasizing her desire to align with what she considers the right side of history.

Following President Joe Biden’s decision to withdraw from the 2024 race, Harris became the Democratic Party’s nominee and selected Tim Walz as her running mate. Swift’s endorsement of Harris and Walz came in the wake of Biden’s exit and the formation of a new grassroots movement among her supporters. The Swifties for Kamala group, which is independent of Swift but aligned with her endorsement, has mobilized significant support online, raising over $122,000 during its initial fundraising event. The group has attracted notable speakers and advocates for Harris, further demonstrating the strong grassroots support for the Harris-Walz ticket.

Swift’s ongoing political activism and vocal support for Democratic candidates and causes underscore her commitment to influencing positive change through her platform. Her latest endorsement serves as a call to action for her followers to engage in the electoral process and make informed decisions.

Selena Gomez is opening up about the impact her ongoing health challenges are having on her path to parenthood. The “Only Murders in the Building” star recently shared insights into her fertility journey in an interview with Vanity Fair, highlighting how her previous diagnoses have influenced her options for starting a family.

Gomez has been transparent about her mental and physical health struggles over the years. In her recent conversation, she discussed the significant hurdles she faces regarding her ability to carry a pregnancy to term. “I unfortunately can’t carry my own children,” Gomez revealed. “I have a lot of medical issues that would put my life and the baby’s in jeopardy. That was something I had to grieve for a while.”

The actress and singer explained that her diagnosis with lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease, and subsequent kidney transplant have had a profound effect on her fertility. Diagnosed with lupus in 2015, Gomez underwent a kidney transplant in 2017, a procedure made possible by her friend and actress Francia Raisa. In addition, she has shared that she is bipolar, a diagnosis revealed in 2020. These health challenges have altered her initial vision of motherhood.

Despite these obstacles, Gomez is looking forward to parenthood through alternative means. She considers surrogacy and adoption as “huge possibilities” and feels grateful for those who are willing to assist her in becoming a mother. “It’s not necessarily the way I envisioned it,” Gomez admitted, reflecting on the difference between her reality and her initial expectations. “I thought it would happen the way it happens for everyone. But I’m in a much better place with that.”

Gomez expressed appreciation for the other avenues available to people who are eager to become parents, and she remains optimistic about her future as a mother. “I’m excited for what that journey will look like, but it’ll look a little different,” she said. “At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter how it happens because it’ll be mine. It’ll be my baby.”

Her 2022 documentary, “My Mind & Me,” offered an in-depth look at her ongoing struggles with health and mental well-being, providing a window into the resilience and perseverance that have marked her journey.

Through her candid discussion, Gomez is not only shedding light on her personal challenges but also bringing attention to broader issues related to health and fertility, inspiring others who might be navigating similar paths.

At the Venice Film Festival premiere of her upcoming film “Maria,” the Oscar-winner was met with a roaring and reportedly lengthy ovation following the screening, leaving her visibly emotional. Jolie, who stars as Maria Callas, was seen wiping tears from her face as she was escorted down a staircase amid the thunderous applause, as shown in video footage. The film’s director, Pablo Larraín, and cast members Alba Rohrwacher and Pierfrancesco Favino were also present in the theater on Thursday.

“Maria” is a biopic that portrays Jolie as Maria Callas, one of the world’s greatest opera singers. Set in 1970s Paris, the film delves into Callas’ tragic and tumultuous life, focusing on her final days. The movie has already generated significant Oscars buzz following its Venice premiere.

Larraín, known for directing “Jackie” in 2016 with Natalie Portman as Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and “Spencer” in 2021 with Kristen Stewart as Princess Diana—both of whom received Academy Award nominations—brings his directorial prowess to this new project.

At a press conference earlier on Thursday, Jolie spoke about her connection to Callas, noting that she could relate to the opera singer in surprising ways. She mentioned sharing Callas’ vulnerability, particularly the aspect of her character that was extremely soft and emotionally open, despite the world’s harshness.

On Wednesday, Netflix announced that “Maria” will be available to stream on their platform at a later date.