17 Holiday Gifts for Him: What to Get the Dudes You Love

It seems like just yesterday we were casually strolling through the park talking all things Halloween with our PSL in hand. But alas, that time has passed, which can only mean one thing — the holiday shopping season is upon us. That’s right — the holidays are just around the corner, so it is officially time for you to get yourself together and tackle that holiday shopping list. Shopping for Mom and co. might be pretty straightforward this year (no doubt thanks to the many Instagram pics they’ve tagged you in as a not-so-subtle hint). But dudes? They’re always a bit of a challenge. Trying to decode shrugs, grunts and the dreaded “I don’t need anything” to figure out what they truly want is one of life’s greatest frustrations. Since we’ve already set you up with perfect presents for Pops, it’s time to turn our attention to the other gents in your life who deserve a little somethin’ somethin’ this holiday season. Scroll below for our gift guide featuring the 17 best gifts for him this year. See?! We’ve got you.

Sure, you could get him a generic bathrobe or some run-of-the-mill boxers (he probably needs those too, though), but the holiday season is really all about getting that great guy in your life a gift that reads more rustic and refined than boring and basic.

1. Olivina Bourbon Cedar Cologne ($45), 2. California Cowboy The High Water – Bird of Paradise Shirt ($135), 3. Scissors of Oz Beard Grooming Kit ($30), 4. Olivina Bourbon Cedar Travel Wax Candle ($25), 5. Parks Project Passport/Field Notes Leather Cover ($48), 6. Parks Projects Trail Topo Camp Hat ($34), 7. Olivina Juniper Mint Organic Lip Balm ($5), 8. California Cowboy Koozie ($8), 9. UE Ultimate Ears Volcano Reef Speaker ($100), 10. Herschel Supply Co. Expedition Mission Backpack ($100), 11. Woodzee Wanderlust Teak Wood Watch ($135), 12. Beardbrand Tree Ranger Utility Balm ($32), 13. California Cowboy Eureka! Bottle Opener ($16), 14. Hansel from Basel Shapes Crew Socks ($18), 15. The Carry On Moscow Mule Cocktail Kit ($25), 16. Viski Belmont Gold Plated Flask ($38), 17. Olivina Organic Shave Prep & Beard Oil ($24)

Want more holiday gift suggestions? Follow us on Pinterest!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Photography: Tory Putnam

Photo Styling: Katie Bond + Beth Wischnia

Illustration: Marisa Kumtong

Valentine's Day is almost here, and whether you're single or happily taken, you can always have an amazing time celebrating the season with your best girlfriends. We're channeling our inner Leslie Knope this Galentine's Day with 50 ideas for spending it with your squad. From gathering your girlfriends for a Galentine's Day party or embarking on an epic road trip, now is the time to plan your February weekend with the best of your friends, near and far.

The Best Galentine's Day Ideas For 2024

Image via Brit + Co

Add Some Pink With These Taylor Swift Fuzzy Dice

Pink is always a good idea when it comes to decor, so for any of your Galentine's Day parties this year, DIY these Taylor Swift dice inspired by "Cruel Summer"! (via Brit + Co)

Image via Brit + Co

DIY Galentine's Day Candy Boxes

Send your best friends home with adorable candy boxes that may or may not be used as trinket trays later on ;). (via Brit + Co)

Image via Brit + Co

Have A Bachelor Marathon

Calling all Bachelor fans! Catch up on new episodes from The Bachelor season 28 by hosting a marathon viewing party for your favorite rose ceremony show. Not a Bachelor fan? Try one of these Netflix originals that are perfect for Galentine's Day. (via Brit + Co)

Image via Brit + Co

DIY Galentine's Day Fort

Camp out with your BFFs in this homemade fort that's just as much fun to make as it is to relax in! It's the perfect Galentine's Day idea at home. (via Brit + Co)

Image viaA Beautiful Mess

Host A Nail Pampering Galentine's Day Party

Pamper yourself and your BFFs with a nail design party. Put out bottles of their favorite polish/color and create a fun playlist of your favorite love/empowerment songs. (via Brit + Co)

Image via Brit + Co

Host A Galentine's Day Bake-off

BFFs stand together even when they're single or happily taken. Host a delicious bake-off with your gals to see who can get the most creative in the kitchen. (via Brit + Co)

Image via Brit + Co

Make Conversation Heart Care Packages

For friends who live near and far, make these sweet care packages filled with their favorite things. (via Brit + Co)

Image via Brit + Co

Host a Galentine's Day Party Game Night

Play Gin Rummy with your favorite gin cocktail, dominoes, charades, whatever floats your game-loving boat! Don't forget the candy charcuterie! (via Brit + Co)

Image viaTaylor Simpson

Plan A Girl's Getaway

Here are the happiest cities in the world. Grab your girls and escape winter for an amazing Galentine's Day weekend you'll never forget. (via Brit + Co)

Image via Brit + Co

Take a Class Together

Film photography is cool again. One reason to get creative with your gals with a day of fun learning/doing. (via Brit + Co)

Image via Brit + Co

Host a Brunch

Our epic Galentine's brunch has everything from red velvet heart waffles to DIY centerpieces to Galentine card writing stations. This gem-inspired brunch is a fun idea too! (via Brit + Co)

Image via Brit + Co

Have A DIY Party With Planters

Get a jump on spring decor with an easy DIY planter party. With a few basic steps, you and your girls can create living wall decor to decorate your space for February and even all the way through the summer months. (via Brit + Co)

Image via Shutterstock

Host a Cookie Party

Check out our list of 30 Valentine's Day cookie recipes and start a holiday cookie tradition, G-Day style! (via Brit + Co)

Image via Element5 Digital

Go On A Road Trip With Your Gals

You don't have to spend your Galentine's Day party inside. If you're not near the beach, you can take a day trip instead. Some ideas include visiting a ski resort, going for a hike, or exploring that small town you've been meaning to hit. (via Brit + Co)

Image via Brit + Co

Have A Puppy-Love Play Date

Galentine's Day isn't just for humans. Invite your BFFs and their furry friends over for a puppy-love playdate. If you want to keep things a bit more relaxed, host a movie night and ask your friends to bring their dog beds too.

Image via Aww Sam

Host A Mean Girls Movie Night

Prepare for a cozy night in with your ladies by catching up on one of the most classic flicks (or the new musical update!). Set the tone for the night with a DIY burn book vase that doubles as a hilarious take-home treat. (via Aww Sam)

Image viaSasha • Stories

Have A Beach Day Picnic

If you live on the coast, host your Galentine's Day gathering at the beach. Make sure you bring your favorite beach bag, a pair of sunglasses, and perhaps some bubbly!

Image viaKelsey Chance

Have A Wine Tasting

You and your girls love your wine (the proof is in your Instagram reels!), so use the day as an excuse to host your very own rosé tasting party.

Image via Brit + Co

Hit The Slopes

An adventurous way to get outdoors and spend time with your ladies is to take advantage of the snow. Go skiing or snowboarding, or build a snow(wo)man. Then enjoy après ski cocktails!

Image via Brit + Co

Have A Pool Party

If you live in a warmer climate (or have a heated pool), throw a fun G-Day pool party complete with all of the essentials like vino, floaties, and sunhats.

Image via Brit + Co

Host A Parks & Rec Marathon

The best way to celebrate Galentine's Day is by honoring the creator, Leslie Knope, with a Parks and Rec marathon viewing party. Ask your ladies to supply the booze, and you can serve up the snacks and the show — or any of our other favorite feel-good TV shows.

Image via Brit + Co

Host An Outdoor Dinner + Movie

Your ladies deserve a get-together that's sure to give each gal the much-needed fun she deserves. Host a movie and dinner for your ladies, outdoors if the weather permits. Step up your party with favors, swag bags, and a night of unlimited drinks.

Image via Shutterstock

Have A Karaoke Party

What better way to start off your Galentine's Day shindig than by belting out a few tunes with your favorite ladies? Yep, we didn't think we'd have to tell you twice.

Image via Brit + Co

Go on A Hike

Keep up your 2024 health goals with an active day outdoors. It's a great way to bond with your girlfriends and with nature.

Image viaNo Revisions

Book A Spa Day

What better way to show self love than to book a much-deserved spa day with gal pals. You'll feel refreshed and recharged.

Image via Brit + Co

Zoom With Surprise Takeout

Bestie live in another state? Plan an evening Zoom call and send each other dinner delivery for a fun gab session and thoughtful Galentine's Day gift. Oh what a night!

More Galentine's Day Party Ideas

A pom pom and lantern wall is literally the perfect way to add some texture to any Galentine's Day party! Plus, you can reuse them for upcoming bachelorette parties and baby showers ;).

Take a simple white table cloth (bonus points if it's paper) and paint "xoxo" across it for a personalized, romantic addition to your table.

Never underestimate the power of gold letter balloons. They're our favorite!

In lieu of flowers, fill some of your favorite vases with all kinds of red and pink candies.

If a pure candy charcuterie board is overwhelming, opt for a mix — supplement chocolate, marshmallows, and strawberries with meat and cheese for a board that's both lunch and dessert.

Mix up your Galentine's Day party mimosa bar by providing different juices and different garnishes that your guests can choose from.

Letter boards are a super easy and super fun way to add spunk to your party. Plus, they don't take up a lot of room so that's a win-win for us!

Grapefruit juice is the perfect addition to your Galentine's Day party's pink cocktails — or to sparkling water for a low-key mocktail.

Candlesticks, jars, cake trays, oh my! The more dishes, the better as far as we're concerned.

It's easier than ever to find super cute, super sassy napkins. It's a small touch that goes a long way!

Mini bottles of champagne aren't just good for your Galentine's Day party — have everyone write a goal on their bottle, and wait to pop it until that goal is achieved!

Find heart-shaped plates to add extra romance to your tablescape. *Sigh.*

Galentine's Day Party Favor Ideas

Miniature potted plants are as cute as can be, and when they're wrapped in pink napkins? To die for.

Cupid would totally approve of these red candy kabobs.

If you have a collection of white bags for your Galentine's Day party favors, go crazy with the designs! Draw hearts, arrows, or write a little note to each of your friends.

Nothing says "I love you" like knowing your friend's favorites — which means you'll knock beauty product gift bags out of the park.

Red lollipops get a fruity upgrade when you wrap their sticks in green tape. Voilà!! The cherry on top of all your Galentine's Day festivities.

Wall envelopes are the perfect place to stash all your candy — or a super artsy Galentine's Day note.

Less is more with a Galentine's Day party favor that lets your BFF know how much she means to you.

A little bit of thoughtful wrapping makes a colorful bouquet even more beautiful than it already is!

Add tiny bows to all your champagne bottles for a true coquette party theme.

Use a pair of scalloped scissors to turn regular gift bags into something even more eye-catching!

Galentine's Day party favors don't *just* have to be candy and cards — celebrate your friends' hobbies with thoughtful gifts, too!

We'll literally never say no to chocolate, especially when it includes flower petals!

Looking for more reasons to get together with your girls this Galentine's Day? Follow us on Pinterest for even more ideas.

Additional reporting by Sarah Koller and Theresa Gonzalez

This article has been updated from a previous post.

Lead image via Brit + Co.

I'll admit out of the many teen dramas I've consumed, Outer Banks is one of the most ridiculous. But the insanity surrounding the plot is half the reason it's enjoyable! John B. wrestling an alligator with his bare hands? Kiara getting kidnapped then making a daring escape in her PJ's? John B. and Sarah getting married (kind of) by the power of "the sky, the stars, and the sea" after escaping the SBI?

Considering my favorite fan theory for the future is that Madelyn Cline's Sarah and Rudy Pankow's JJ learn they're secret siblings, I know the crazy train isn't slowing down anytime soon. I took to Reddit to find the wildest Outer Bankshot takes and I was not disappointed. Keep reading to see if you agree with any!

JJ and Kiara Never Should Have Happened

Image via Netflix

While JJ and Kiara is one of the most popular ships on the show, a lot of Outer Banks fans think the "no Pogue-on-Pogue macking" rule from the pilot should have stayed in effect. The individual romances between Kiara and JJ, John B., and Pope make the story really messy, and the fact the show writes Kiara to be with all three of them in the span of three years gives a lot of viewers the ick.

I'll be team #Jiara forever (and literally screamed when The Backseat Lovers' "Kilby Girl" started playing during the motorcycle ride in season 3), but I'll say it would incredibly compelling to see a friend group take care of each other as much as the Pogues do without ever crossing over into romantic territory. That's found family, after all!

Pope Should Have Ditched The Treasure Hunt

Image via Netflix

One Reddit user is convinced that "Pope should’ve focused on his future in school instead of giving everything up to search for treasure." And TBH, I totally agree.

In season 1, Pope has a breakthrough about the hidden treasure in the middle of his scholarship interview. He ditches the scholarship committee to tell the rest of the Pogues, throwing away a crazy educational opportunity. Pope beats himself up for it, and his parents definitely aren't pleased, but at least it meant he got to stay in the show instead of leaving for college, which leads me to...

Outer Banks Should Have Started With The Pogues In Their 20s

Image via Netflix

As one of the only people alive who loves the post-time jump One Tree Hill, I would have loved to see OBX start off with the characters in their 20s (although it looks like that's where Outer Banks season 4 will pick up!). This would eliminate SO MANY problems from the jump because the Pogues wouldn't have to worry about missing school, they'd be more self-sufficient, and instead of being the same old high school drama, it could have provided a commentary on figuring out life in your 20s the same way Friends did.

Rafe Shouldn't Have Any Kind Of Redemption Arc In Outer Banks Season 4

Image via Netflix

Drew Starkey the man that you are. According to one Reddit user, "Rafe should not have a love interest or a redemption arc" like we see in season 3. We spent all of season 1 and season 2 establishing that Rafe (played by Drew) would do anything it took to get what he wanted (including one successful murder and two other attempts?!). He shows next to no remorse for his actions, and exploring his literal psychopathic tendencies would take the show to a whole new level.

Big John Should Never Have Returned

Image via Netflix

John B.'s dad's disappearance is the catalyst for the Pogues' journey at the beginning of Outer Banks, and Big John's return means the story feels somewhat repetitive in the third season, and it undoes a lot of the growth we've seen from John B. Plus, Big John is just SO chaotic, selfish, and dramatic. If he had truly died in season 1, we could have seen John B. wrestle with that finality, and how to cope with loss in the face of finding the treasure and falling in love with Sarah.

And Finally, Outer Banks Should Have Ended After Season 1

Image via Netflix

Outer Banks season 1 was exactly what we needed at the height of the pandemic. It was escapist — both in terms of the beach vacation vibes, but also because the '00s aesthetic took us right back to simpler times — and it had such a wonderfully resolved finale that some fans think nothing has matched it.

Do you agree with any of these Outer Banks opinions? I'm such a romance fan, I don't know what I'd do if the show didn't have JJ and Kiara get together! Check out all the best New TV Shows coming this year for more.

Lead image via Netflix

If your new year is off to an interesting start in the dating department (or elsewhere), take time to indulge in some self-love this season. Just in time for the double whammy of Galentine's Day and Valentine's Day, we have the most thoughtful self-care gift ideas to share with you.

Love may be in the air, and it's not just about romantic gestures. It's about showering yourself with the kind of TLC that makes you feel like the best, most relaxed version of yourself. Whether you're celebrating solo, with your gal pals, or a special someone, these self-care goodies are your ticket to a blissful and rejuvenating experience all through 2024.

Picture this: you, indulging in a bath salt soak, letting your skincare work its magic, and sipping on a delightful cup of herbal tea. Sounds dreamy, right? Well, buckle up because our curated list is about to take your self-care game to a whole new level. From pampering skincare serums that'll make your skin sing with joy to cozy essentials that will wrap you up in a warm hug, we've left no stone unturned to bring you the crème de la crème of self-care gifts.

Scroll away as we share 40 self-care gifts that'll help you and your besties have a relaxing V-Day!


Beauty Self-Care Gifts

LANEIGE Lip Glowy Balm

Laneige is known for their replenishing lip sleeping mask, but their glowy balm is equally amazing. It's moisturizing and will remind your bestie of summer as she hydrates her lips after her nighttime skincare routine.

Topicals Brightening & Clearing Eye Masks

Eye masks are mandatory when thinking about self-care gifts. They help treat and sooth dark undereye circles, making them a beauty staple your bestie will reach for countless times next month.

Kush Queen Soak In Love Bundle

If your bestie doesn't get the hint that she deserves to relax, surprise her with this self-care bath bundle for Galentine's Day.

Kate Mcleod The Full Body Set

Kate Mcleod's full body set knows that your bestie's at-home spa day deserves to be a soothing experience.

SpoiledChild A22 Biotin Boost Hair + Scalp Serum

Gone are the days of dull, thinning hair. This biotin hair and scalp serum spray works wonders and is TikTok famous for a reason.

Bonjout Beauty LE BALM Skin Savior Solid Serum

This multi-tasking serum can be used in eight soothing ways: As a serum, moisturizer, under-eye cream, night cream, treatment salve, lip care, primer, and overnight repairing mask. Consider this the essential product for a low maintenance but powerful beauty routine.

Pattern Beauty The Coily Starter Bundle

For natural hair beauties who have a tighter hair pattern, Pattern Beauty's coily starter bundle will soothe dry strands during winter.

Good Molecules Blemish & Discoloration Set

If your bestie's last menstrual cycle was a doozy and left behind some discoloration from painful acne, she'll love using Good Molecule's blemish & discoloration set.

P.S. It's well-worth the price!

Lather Gua Sha & Glow Hinoki Body Treatment

Tell your bestie to stimulate and massage her body with this Gua Sha and Hinoki treatment. Remember, her self-care gifts should be as fun as they are thoughtul!

Primally Pure Self Health Bundle

Self-care gifts should include something your bestie can pamper herself with. With this health bundle, she'll get a complimentary towel, body butter, and more!

Cratejoy TheraBox | Self Care Box

This box gets straight to the point by letting your bestie know it's dedicated to her self-care.

Colourpop Pressed Powder Eyeshadow Makeup Palette (Blush Baby)

Surprise your friend with this pressed powder eyeshadow palette before Galentine's Day so she can put together a stunning makeup look when the two of you head to brunch.

Kosas Plump + Juicy Vegan Collagen + Probiotic Spray-On Serum

If you love your bestie then you'll buy her this innovative self-care gift. It's meant to provide hydration while lifting the skin so your bestie will look glowy during winter.

Cozy Self-Care Gifts

Rebrilliant Bonadie Suction Bath Pillow

So your best gal has a bathtub caddy tray, but found that her neck is still uncomfortable while she's soaking in the tub. Have no fear because this suction bath pillow will support her neck and upper back as she peacefully relaxes.

NUUDS Satin Pajama Set

Once she's out of the shower or bathtub, she can slip into this beautiful satin pajama set. It'll make her feel sensational.

Eddie Bauer Lounge Set

If satin isn't her thing, she can slip into this grey marl lounge set. It's the kind of self-care gift idea we wouldn't mind buying our friends for Galentine's Day.

UGG Scuffette II

Comfort feels like slipping both feet in these warm and cozy UGG slippers.

Kitsch Barbie x Kitsch Satin Pillowcase (Iconic)

If you have one friend who still hasn't changed their pillowcases, buy her this satin version that's reminiscent of Barbie. She'll love how cool it feels when she lays down to sleep at night.

Hatch Restore 2

No one likes to be woken abruptly, so gift someone in your crew this upgraded version of Hatch's beloved sleep sound and alarm machine. It's the kind of self-care gift that'll show you respect their deep appreciation of nap time.

Reading & Journaling Self-Care Gifts

How We Heal

How We Heal is a beautiful collection of stories and thoughtful insight by author Alexandra Elle. She's found a way to speak to readers in a soft way that inspires change.

Self-Care Habits for Busy Women

Chances are that you and your besties are always on the go for different reasons. Let Self-Care Habits for Busy Women guide how everyone approaches their days in the new year.

The Comfort Book

This book is like a warm hug on a chilly night.

5 Minutes A Day The Mental Health Journal

This journal is a good starting point for the friend who wants to start journaling, but doesn't know where to start.

Papier Wellness Journal

This journal is for the seasoned writer who wants to develop a consistent routine with their wellness habit.

Intelligent Change Mindful Affirmations for Health & Wellbeing

If your friend is a self-proclaimed Affirmations Queen, she'll love reading one of these cards well after Galentine's Day.

Fragrance Self-Care Gifts

Threshold 3pk Diffuser Candles Room Spray Gift Set - Eucalyptus Lavender

This room spray gift set will infuse anyone's senses with the calming scents of lavender and eucalyptus.

West Elm Alura Homescent Collection - Warm Musk

If your best friend is looking for something a bit spicier, go for West Elm's warm musk set.

KEYS Sage + Oak Milk Votive Candle Set

Alicia Keys has a beautifully-smelling candle set that will take care of everyone in your besties crew.

Maison Margiela Replica Candle Set

Step it up a notch with Maison Margiela's glorious candle set. We'd take this self-care gift idea anyday.

Pura Coconut Calm Home Fragrance

This home fragrance will make your best friend's apartment smell like your girls trip.

Wellness Self-Care Gifts

Beast Mini Blender (Mist)

Now your friend can blend her own yummy smoothie recipes in this pretty blender.

Stanley 40 oz. Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler (Warm Serene Brushstrokes)

Even if you and your crew missed the coveted pink Stanley Tumblers at Target, you can still surprise them with this brushstrokes design.

Fellow Stagg EKG Electric Pour-Oven Kettle

It's time to make the transition to using an electric kettle to warm tea and hot chocolate since Galentine's Day is still during winter.

Lululemon The Workout Mat 6mm

One can never have too much pink in their list of self-care goodies. At least this one will encourage your best friend to kickstart her fitness journey after Galentine's Day.

Fun & Indulgent Self-Care Gifts

Compartés Valentine's Day Signature Chocolate Collection Heart

This cute chocolate assortment has Galentine's Day written all over it with it's pink and red graphics. It comes in a evergreen crocodile heart-shaped box and makes for the perfect indulgent self-care gift.

Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 Camera

This is one self-care gift idea that'll capture fun candid moments to relive whenever you and your crew wants!

Kennedy Claire Couture Galentines Day Shirts

Show your crew love with these fun Galentine's Day shirts.

FITORY Open Toe Slipper with Cozy Lining

These cozy slipper are perfect for the ultimate self-care queen in your friend group.

WHAT DO YOU MEME? for The Girls - The Ultimate Girls Night Party Game

Girls night won't be complete without this fun card game.

SmileBelle Best Friendship Bracelets

"It's the best friends forever" bracelet set! Although this isn't the true definition of a self-care gift idea, it signifies the bond you and your besties have. It's the most appropriate form of celebrating Galentine's Day that we've ever seen.

Which Galentine's Day self-care gift are you thinking about picking up for your besties? Let us know in the comments!

Brit + Cos may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Lead image via Etsy.

This post has been updated.

Mariska Hargitay is the woman of the hour anywhere she goes, with her iconic Law & Order: SVUrole as Olivia Benson under her belt for the last 25 years. The character is an absolute advocate to women — and assault victims of any gender — through her words, actions, and powerful convictions of each perpetrator on the show. She takes great care with her victims and pursues perpetrators with fervor, and slowly as you watch the show..the line blurs between Olivia and Mariska.

This isn't anything new — just recently Mariska literally stopped production on the show to help a child (who mistook her for an actual police officer) find her mom. It's just who Mariska is. She walks the walk and talks the talk — including during her speech at Variety's Power of Women's Power of Women event.

Image via NBC Universal

As a Power of Women honoree, Mariska was recognized in regards to her work as an advocate for sexual assault survivors. She took the stage and used her platform to discuss rape and assault conviction reversals, shining a light on the recent overturned ruling in Harvey Weinstein's landmark NYC case. Here's what she said:

Today I want to talk about reversing convictions, and more specifically I want to talk to you about how impossible it is to reverse mine. It’s impossible to reverse my conviction that survivors matter. It is impossible to reverse my conviction that what happens to us matters, and that our society must respond to survivors with a more a compassionate, holistically, deeper, and more nuanced understanding of what healing means.

It is impossible to reverse my conviction that after a trauma, survivors can reclaim lives of hope, of possibility, of audacious risk, beautiful intimacy, and glorious, glorious abundant joy. And I stand before you as evidence of that statement.

It is impossible to reverse my conviction that we must listen to survivors as experts on what justice means. It is extraordinary how little their voices are consulted, let alone incorporated, in the process of deciding how to repair harm. Justice is not a one-size-fits-all journey.

It is impossible to reverse my conviction that patriarchal impunity has to end. Patriarchal impunity is when a male-dominated system exempts perpetrators from punishment. Studies show that only 20% of all rape cases in the U.S. are reported to the police, and that between 5 and 0% of all rapes result in a guilty plea or a conviction. So why do 80% of victims not report? Because they're met with a system that grants impunity to perpetrators; a system that blames victims; a system that accepts only those victims who are experienced as "real" rape; a system that completely misunderstands the neurobiology of trauma, which causes behavior in women that doesn't fit the picture of how a "real victim" would act.

Is that change needed that victims should just pull themselves together? Just buck up and report anyway? No. No, it's the system that receives them that needs to change

It is impossible to reverse my conviction — and the conviction of my extraordinary team, The Joyful Heart — that the backlog of untested rape kits can be brought to zero; that the testing of all new kits must be mandated; that we need a statewide kit tracking system; and that survivors have the right to access the status of their kits.

It is impossible to reverse my conviction that grammar — yes, grammar — that we use when we speak about rape must change. In the sentence, "A woman is raped," there's a crime and there's a victim, but there's no perpetrator. Where's the perpetrator? Where is he? Statistically, as we know, most likely he's walking free. He's so free that he doesn't even appear in the language about the crime that he committed. Is that not extraordinary? It's extraordinary that in the very grammar, the perpetrator goes free. Reintroducing perpetrators in the language of rape will make some very unwieldy grammar, but that's the nature of change. It's unwieldy, it's messy, it's uncomfortable, but it's necessary.

Image via NBC Universal

Hargitay continued on in her prolific speech to describe that rape shouldn't be considered a "crime of passion" because it's "not simply the next step in the trajectory of his passion" when a man takes a consensual hookup too far and assaults a woman against her will. She stated that it's "an exercise of power," doubling down that the language we use is important.

The speech went on to address that rape is both about power and control, as a "construct" that was "built, and assembled, and reinforced over time." She noted that there are people with these positions of power — and she specifically called out those in the entertainment industry — that could make a difference and aligned themselves to victims and survivors.

After this and some other remarks, Hargitay specifically called out the Weinstein conviction reversal. She said:

I do want to say something about the Harvey Weinstein conviction, specifically about the reason that it was overturned: too many women's voices. Too many women's voices were allowed to speak. Hallelujah! Amen! I can't imagine anything more beautiful than that. The Daily podcast episode talked about how it was so risky for the prosecution to have that many women testify. Risky to let women speak? You're damn right it is!

Too many women speaking brings change. Too many women speaking shakes the establishment. Too many women means we get listened to more, and people might actually hear what we have to say. Look what happened when women started saying just two words, right? Me too — just as an example — a tidal wave of change. Me too.

And then of course, there was the response: the Me Too Movement. The backlash. The examination of whether the changes that have come are lasting, or are even positive. Of course there's a backlash! What did they expect? For women to speak repeatedly, loudly, together, with a purpose — for there to be no backlash? The backlash is evidence of how powerful those voices were, how powerful those voices ARE.

Watch Mariska Hargitay's Full Speech Here

www.youtube.com

Mariska Hargitay's Gets Emotional as She Thanks Her Support System and the Women Around Her

Turns out that your TV heroes really can be your IRL heroes after all. Long live Olivia Benson! Long live Mariska Hargitay!

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Header image via NBC Universal

After Emily in Paris season 3 dropped on Netflix in December of 2022, we were hoping to get the fourth installment of the hit show in 2023. But production halted when the WGA writers' strike, then the SAG-AFTRA actors' strike went to affect, and our beloved cast and crew campaigned for better wages and industry protection. But with the end of the writers' strike, and new SAG negotiations, Emily in Paris season 4 finally began production in February 2024 — and I can already tell you there's sure to be plenty of drama and French fashion this time around.

Not only will we see Emily in Paris (see what I did there?!) but she's also pulling an Audrey Hepburn and taking a little Roman Holiday. That's right — our favorite Parisians are heading to Italy! If that doesn't sound like a dreamy comfort show then I don't know what does. Here's everything we know about the upcoming season of your favorite TV brain candy!!

Is Emily in Paris season 4 coming soon?

Image via Lily Collins/Instagram

Via Variety, Emily in Paris season 4 began production in Paris the week of January 15! "Did someone say Saison Quatre?!" Lily Collins says in her Instagram post announcing production. "Finally reunited with my @emilyinparis fam back in Paris and it feels so good. Although, I may need to brush up on my selfie skills for Emily’s sake…"

Now the wait is over! According to the official announcementfor Emily in Paris, we know part one drops on Netflix August 15, followed by part 2 on September 12. I've been impatiently waiting for this considering we didn't know how filming would be impacted by things like the WGA writers strike!

Is Emily in Paris filmed in Paris?

Image via Lily Collins/Instagram

Yes, Emily in Paris is filmed on location in Paris! We got our first look at Emily in Paris season 4 when Lily Collins and Ashley Park were seen filming in the City of Love (via Daily Mail). The costumes for the series are still as bold and bright as ever, with Ashley's Mindy wearing cobalt and metallic boots, and Lily's Emily dressed head-to-toe in lemon yellow. I can't wait to see what these best friends get up to this season! Check out our Paris travel recommendations to live out your own Emily in Paris dreams ;).

On April 27, Lily Collins confirmed Emily in Paris season 4 had wrapped its France shoot and that the cast & crew have swapped the City of Love for the Eternal City! "When you’re the first ones on the dance floor at the Paris wrap party. Next stop: Rome!" she says on Instagram. Late spring is literally the perfect time to film in Italy and I just know this season is going to give me more wanderlust than ever before. I need gelato!

What's Emily In Paris season 4 about?

Image via Netflix

Season 3 left us with a huge cliffhanger: Alfie breaks up with Emily, Camille learns she's pregnant with Gabriel's baby, Benoit's "Mon Soleil" has been chosen for the Eurovision Song Contest, and Emily and Gabriel realize they've been in love with each other the whole time. Whew.

Emily in Paris season 4 will have a ton of cliffhangers to bring full circle, and a bunch of damage that all the characters need to heal. We know from the Netflix TUDUM fan event that we might also see Emily have to deal with an ultimatum head-on, as well as an unexpected twist. Plus, it looks like she's heading on a "Roman holiday," according to lead actress Lily Collins. We'll take any nod to an Audrey Hepburn movie, please and thank you!

Is Alfie coming back in season 4 of Emily in Paris?

Image via Netflix

We don't have OFFICIAL word on whether Alfie (played by Lucien Laviscount) will return for Emily in Paris season 4, but we're hoping for his sake that he gets some closure. Lucien wants to come back as well! "[The dream is] to keep this gravy train going and just to kind of really live in this world a little bit longer," he says in an interview with Elle. " The writers on the show and the creators behind it and everyone that comes into contact with it is so amazing and fantastic. Their minds [have] way, way, way, way surpassed mine. So, yeah. I’ll let them do their thing.”

Who else is in the Emily in Paris season 4 cast?

Image via Netflix

We can expect the rest of the cast — Lily Collins as Emily, Lucas Bravo as Gabriel, Ashley Park as Mindy, Camille Razat as Camille, Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu as Sylvie, Samuel Arnold as Julian, and Bruno Gouery as Luc — to return.

Will there be a season 5 of Emily in Paris?

Image via Marie Etchegoyen/Netflix

It looks like Emily in Paris season 4 will not be the final season, according to creator Darren Star. “There’s a lot more story to tell here and we’re not wrapping things up anytime soon,” Star tells Elle. “And also hopefully season four isn’t the end either. I feel like we’re all creatively feeling like we’re in the middle of something not heading towards the end.”

Darren also told Deadline season 4 is "not necessarily conceived as a final chapter. I think like every other show, it’s a rich ensemble. There’s no end in sight until everybody feels like it’s time to end. And I don’t think this show is limited by a number of seasons, I think it’s limited by everybody’s enthusiasm and excitement about doing it and telling stories about these characters."

We'll take as many seasons of Emily in Paris as they'll give us!!

What has the cast said about Emily in Paris season 4?

Image via Marie Etchegoyen/Netflix

Lucas Bravo told People he's excited for a coming-of-age for Gabriel. "When you start a character, then there's a year where you experience the world and you mature, you become another person and you come back and it's exactly the day you left off," he says. "I'm happy that in season four I'll be able to bring more of what I became and what I've experienced in the past four years."

Even though Lily Collins is now an executive producer, she doesn't want to know TOO much about the future of the show. “Darren and I speak, on occasion, about where he’s thinking of going, but he also doesn’t wanna spoil too much for me because there is a fine line,” she tells Collider. “I don’t wanna know everything because I want to be led with the writing, but I am also curious because, as a producer wanting to celebrate the other characters, I’m very curious to see what their trajectories are."

What happened at the end of Emily in Paris season 3?

Image via Netflix

To be fully prepared for Emily in Paris season 4, it's important to remember just what happened during season 3! The junior season was a bumpy ride for Emily, and it ends with the craziest finale yet. After Camille and Gabriel decide to get married, Camille stops the wedding, saying she knows Gabriel is in love with Emily instead of her. This declaration leads Alfie to break up with our leading lady because he refuses to be her second choice (and honestly, I respect it). That's not the only shocker because Camille also reveals that she's pregnant with Gabriel's child, which comes as a surprise to everyone. Meanwhile, Mindy learns Benoit has submitted a song (specifically "Mon Soleil") to the Eurovision Song Contest and Laurent has his heart set on opening a club in Paris.

Are you excited for Emily in Paris Season 4? Give us your craziest theory in the comments, and check out our Facebook for more pop culture news. Read up on how This Emily In Paris Theory Could Be Why Emily And Gabriel Aren’t Together (Yet).

Lead image via Netflix.

This post has been updated.