You finished picking out that Valentine’s Day gift for Mom, snagged a few of the coolest finds for your besties and even found the perfect pick for your favorite dude, but you still have to figure out your White Elephant gag. Wait… what? Yup, you heard right. White Elephant gifts are not just for the holidays anymore. Whether you have a Galentine’s Day brunch or you and your friends love outdoing each other every single holiday, quirky and ridiculous love-themed presents are a definite must. Simply take your pick from our extensive list, whip up a quick and easy DIY Valentine’s Day card and you’re good to go.
We don't always get to show our appreciation and care for our loved ones in the ways we would like to, but Valentine's Day and the surrounding season of love gives us the perfect excuse to be loud and proud about how we feel. Maybe you're preparing a thoughtful homemade dinner to enjoy under candlelight with your partner, venturing out on a new experience for date night, or hosting a charcuterie party with your gal pals. However you choose to celebrate the romantic love, platonic love, and self-love radiating in your inner circle, finding the perfect Valentine's Day gifts can help express your feelings where words fall short throughout your love day celebrations!
Though gifting doesn't have to be the only route you take to express your feelings this year, it can be a great way for your friends, parents, or partner to feel deeply appreciated. Up the ante on your gifting beyond the normal roses and chocolates this year and delve into these Valentine's Day gifts that are suitable for practically anyone deserving of your heart eyes!
No matter how you plan to celebrate, be it an epic Galentine's Day brunch, baking your besties some heart-shaped cookies, or treating yourself to a slow, relaxing, self-care night, here are some of the best Valentine's Day gifts to give (and get) this season!
Valentine's Day Gifts For Anyone
Chocolove Gold Dusted Caramel Filled Dark Chocolates Gift Box
Because who doesn't love chocolate? This elegant chocolate box will give them something to snack on all month.
Threshold Stoneware Love Ya Mean It Splash Mug
This mug can be used for their morning coffee (or tea) and is a great, easy reminder of your love.
Simple Pleasures Body Care Gift Set
This lively gift set delivers all the tools your Valentine's Day gift recipient needs to give themselves a little TLC. It comes complete with a moisturizing soap, a lotion bar, and a rich lip balm for everyday use!
Halter Ranch x Mama Ganache Valentine's Bundle
Make Valentine's Day sweet by pairing organic, ethically-sourced chocolate from California-based Mama Ganache with Halter Ranch wine. The HR Libelle sparkling wine tastes amazing with the Fresh Meyer Lemon & White Chocolate and the Halter Ranch Ancestor, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, and Malbec, pairs perfectly with the Dark Classic. Cheers!
Heart Bouquet Puzzle
One thing about this Valentine's Day gift is that they definitely won't be left puzzled about your feelings for them!
Mala XOXO Mini Candle Gift Set
Complete with three sweet scents, this gift set will fill their space with Valentine's Day-themed aromas to spark the holiday mood!
The Milk Bar Sampler
Satisfy your special someone's sweet tooth (because everyone has one) with this decadent dessert sampler from the renowned Milk Bar! It's packed with delicious truffles, cookies, and more.
Vitruvi Essential Oil Diffuser
Diffusing oil can significantly reduce stress, pain and fatigue. Thoughtfully gift thisdiffuseralong with a calming essential oil like lavender to someone that really needs some zen in their life.
Valentine's Day Gifts For Couples
Le Puzz Lighten Up! Puzzle
Pour out some of your favorite wine, crank up the romantic tunes, and do a fun puzzle together for an easy, rewarding screen-free date night!
Boarderie Valentine's Diletto Cheese & Charcuterie Board
Consider V-Day dinner covered! With this premium snack collection, they'll get a fresh, fully-arranged board packed with artisan cheeses, meats, dried fruits, nuts, olives, and chocolates. Plus, once the treats are devoured, the happy couple can keep the wood board for future snacking sessions!
Parks Project Shrooms Two Person Hammock
This double hammockensures you two get some cozy together time on any outdoor adventure.
Date Night Fondue Set
This snacking set is the perfect small size, making it easy to whip out on spontaneous date nights. Whether your spread is savory or sweet, this is one gift that you and your partner can both enjoy past V-Day.
We're Not Really Strangers Couples Edition
Dive deeper into your relationship this Valentine's Day with this introspective card game that'll make you think harder about you and your partner's connection.
heyday 35MM Camera with Built-in Flash
Cop this film camera to permanently capture all of the sweet memories you make as a couple!
"Best of Magnolia Bakery" Date Night Sampler Pack
This decadent pack is ready for date night! With two tubs of Magnolia Bakery's famous banana pudding and an assortment of cupcakes that get delivered right to the front door, this is one of the best Valentine's Day gifts with a sweet (and shareable) twist.
Valentine's Day Gifts For Singles
Self Love Poetry: For Thinkers & Feelers By Melody Godfred
Because sometimes, as a single person, all you really need is to tap into yourself in order to navigate the insane and always confusing dating landscape.
Baggu Cherry Crew Sock
These darling socks will be there for you on the go, no matter what, or where.
TIMEFOTO Flower Vase
This modern vase will be the new home for all the self-bought flowers that your beautiful self deserves!
Really Good Boxed Wine 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon
When in doubt, wine it out. This boxed wine tastes ahh-mazing, and will provide you with the best night(s) in of your life.
Loops Night Out Hydrogel Face Mask Set
Make self-care nights a regular routine with this trio of replenishing face masks.
Valentine's Day Gifts For Foodies
Brightland Ardor Olive Oil
This chili-infused olive oil flavor will help them bring the heat to any Valentine's dinner. Spicy vodka pasta, anyone?
Mani Me x Magnolia Bakery Nail Sticker Bundle
They're a foodie. Of course they're gonna know what Magnolia Bakery is! These cute, sweet treat-inspired nail stickers pay a perfect homage to the famous kitchen and will instantly inspire them to make their next dessert.
Le Creuset Heart Shaped Cast Iron Cocotte
This heart-shaped cast iron pot turns any meal into one that's literally made with love.
DEUX Not-So-Red Velvet Donuts
These healthy red velvet donut holes are made without any artificial dyes or food coloring (hence the "Not-So-Red" description). Just pure goodness here.Your food V-Day gift recipient will be anxious to try these unique sweet treats for a mid-day pick-me-up or bedtime dessert!
Wine Cork State Wall Hanging
If they tend to pop open a bottle each time they cook a fancy meal, then this is one of the best foodie Valentine's Day gifts for them. This wall art displays wino keepsakes beautifully, and comes in all 50 states!
MuellerLiving Immersion Blender
We love a practical gift. Immersion blenders are the perfect item for homemade soup and sauce lovers.
Sugarwish Valentine's Treats
Send them a Sugarwish this V-Day – it's basically a box full of treats that *they* get to pick themselves! All you have to do is choose the size of the gift, then they'll get a notification from Sugarwish once you finalize the fine details. Happy snacking ahead!
Valentine's Day Gifts For Your Girl Friends
Skylar Perfume Dreamy Discovery Set
Gotta keep the girls fresh and clean! This perfume set samples a range of scents for your girl to spritz.
Birthdate Zodiac Pendant
For the astrology girly in your life, consider this stunning pendant that lays down a customized pairing of gemstones + crystals based on their birthday! Aside from being truly tapped in to the constellations, this accessory goes with any look for any occasion. They won't wanna take it off!
Cowboy Kush Boy Smells Candle
Your bestie will love this sweet scent to burn during her hot baths and self-care nights.
Book Person Ceramic Mug
A cute mug is guaranteed to make drinking coffee before work at least 10 times more fun!
Kitsch Satin Pillowcase for Hair & Skin
This silky-smooth pillowcase set is key for a comfortable night's sleep, and the fact that it's great for anyone's hair and skin is just a bonus. Each sleep your girl friend takes on it will help reduce frizz and maintain healthy, wrinkle-free skin.
Best Valentine's Day Gifts For Your Guy Friends
Dos Hombres Joven Mezcal
If your guy bestie is a Breaking Bad fan, he'll go nuts over this Dos Hombres Mezcal crafted by co-stars Aaron Paul and Bryan Cranston.
Compartés 9-Piece Valentine's Chocolate Heart Gift Box
The taste of these Valentine's chocolates are just as appealing as the packaging they come in, though the guy in your life might just wanna gobble up all of the raspberry and strawberry-flavored treats the moment he opens the box!
Katin Sunfire Hat
Keep your guy friend stylish as ever with this fashionable trucker hat that can be paired with pretty much anything he leaves the house in.
Assouline Art Deco Style by Jared Goss
Everyone loves a good coffee table book, and this pick was made for your guy friend that wants to impress. Gift him this intriguing conversation starter for his guests!
Edie Parker Diner Ashtray
This durable ashtray will bring some elevated design (and much-needed color) to any guy's space.
Rabbit Freezable Beer Glasses
No more complaints about warm beer. These glasses makes having a good drink easy – just pop them in the freezer overnight for a guaranteed chilled glass.
The Best Valentine's Day Gifts For Yourself
Harper Wilde Luxe Mesh Plunge Bra
Feel super sexy and confident in this sheer bra! This piece will enchant your Valentine's Day wardrobe for that luxurious self-date you have planned.
Kaja Cheeky Stamp Blush
This sweet blush makes for a perfect V-Day gift to yourself because one, it's heart-shaped for getting in the spirit, and two, it gives you the cutest flirty flush.
Henry Rose Mini Playdate with Windows Down Fragrance + Torn Candle
These two scents (one for your home, one for your bod) play off one another for some delicious around-the-clock smells. Light the candle to perfectly set the mood.
Queen Musia Matte Creme Lipstick
Give yourself that empowering boost of confidence that comes with putting on a stunning makeup look, and splurge on this clean beauty lip shade that looks amazing any time of the year!
Révolution Lovestruck Print
Fill your spaces with gentle reminders of self-love like this simple print!
Parade Sheer Sculpt Bustier
Being able to celebrate V-Day alone means you get all the more time to celebrate YOU! Up your confidence in a matching set from Parade.
Glamnetic Sugar Rush Nail Set
Let your inner nail artist shine with this easy at-home manicure set! The multicolored hearts are *so* adorable for Valentine's Day.
Kendra Scott Ari Heart Rose Gold Pendant Necklace
This darling necklace design is fitting for V-Day, but will still look super cute beyond February!
Valentine's Day Gifts For Him
LEGO Flower Bouquet
Unlock your man's inner child (and maybe engineer) with this LEGO bouquet set that both of you can enjoy building, and marvel at after it's finished.
Nalgene Sustain Tritan BPA-Free Water Bottle
Your man can take this brightly designed water bottle to work, the gym, during errands and on outdoor adventures. With this Valentine's Day gift in tow, he'll be thinking of you no matter where he goes.
Happy Nuts Man Slab Natural Soap
This slab of soap tackles your man's below-the-belt area with a refreshing scent that he'll actually like. The fragrance is long-lasting and great for chafing, sweat, and odor all over.
Gap Quarter Crew Socks
These retro-inspired socks are super good quality, plus they add some unique flair to any of your gent's outfits.
Insulated Blender Bottle
Your gym-loving guy can never have enough blender bottles for his pre-workout rituals. This model is insulated so that cold liquids stay cold.
Combler Whiskey Glasses
Save your sips for these classy glasses that your man will love drinking whiskey out of, and you'll love looking at.
Valentine's Day Gifts For Her
A New Day Plastic Round Sunglasses
A fun pair of sunglasses will always boost your girl's mood. She can take this bold pair into her spring fashion looks and beyond!
Ochre Objects Queen of Hearts Charm
This darling heart charm will soon become her go-to piece to wear anywhere!
Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey
Your girl will be obsessed with this oh-so kissable, soft, viral gloss shade.
Venus et Fleur Love & Chocolates Gift Set
This gift set is a perfectly subtle yet sleek way to show her you care! It comes filled with half a dozen chocolate bonbons and a small rose arrangement for added romance.
Chefman Iceman Portable Mirrored Personal Mini Fridge
You've never seen a fridge this cute! It's pretty small and compact, meaning she can fit all her beauty essentials in one central place. Plus, the cool temps in this tiny fridge will prolong the shelf life of certain serums, face masks, and creams. There's also a heating function for heating up towels – a la spa day!
The Sill Pink Anthurium
Forget about flowers, deliver-to-your-door house plants are the new coolest gift.
Glossier You Eau de Parfum
Gift the sweet scent that all the 'It girls' are sporting to your other half. We love how unique Glossier You is since it's designed to suit everyone a little differently!
Oomiay Vintage Pearl Heart Earrings
Your girl will adore these dainty pearl earrings because they match with any look, plus look super elevated for V-Day.
Essie Mini Nail Polish Trio
This nail polish set makes sure your girl can always stay on point with her nail art game and feel her best!
Valentine's Day Gifts For Mom
Self-Watering Planter & Propagation Station
This minimalist planter puts in the work for mom when she forgets to water the plants. It'll match any plant-loving mom's space!
Burga Emerald Pool Phone Case
Keep mom looking sleek and in the loop with this eye-catching phone case.
Anthropologie Zaza Lustered Stemless Wine Glasses
The elegant finish on these glasses is just what the wine mom wants for her kitchen.
Johnny Was Desert Night Rollerball Perfume
This travel-size scent emits nothing but a beautiful balance between woody smells and florals. Mom will love having this in her bag for those midday refreshes.
Artifact Uprising Color Series Photo Book
If you're aiming to gift something more sentimental this Valentine's Day, a curated photo book is always a great way to go. Fill it with pictures of your favorite memories with mom. Don't be surprised when she starts tearing up!
Duo Baguette Birthstone Ring
Add your mom's birthstone alongside your own on this unique, sleek ring design for a way for her to always feel close to you.
Compartés I Love You Valentine's Chocolate Heart Gift Box
Nothing says 'I love you' like a box of chocolates, and lucky for you, this one literally says it for an easy, direct, and heartfelt message.
Luxail Margarita Cocktail Glasses
The marg-loving mom will surely appreciate how helpful these freezer-friendly glasses are, especially when she feels like slow-sipping. This duo is made with crack gel that keeps cool and stays in place to keep those frozen bevs, well, frozen for longer!
Valentine's Day Gifts For Dad
Nextmug Temperature-Controlled Self-Heating Coffee Mug
This self-heating mug will make sure dad's coffee stays hot all day, making his workday a whole lot easier.
KOHO Kona Coffee Bon Bons
Dad will want to eat all six of these artisanal Hawaiian chocolates in one go. They earn a caffeinated boost from Kona coffee, which pairs deliciously well with the chocolatey shell!
Wideboy Alarm Clock
Save pops from that same-old iPhone alarm ring tone and help him elevate his morning routine with this design-forward clock.
Retrospekt Refurbished SONY Walkman Cassette Player
Dad will not stop obsessing over his childhood, "when music was better," when he sees this Walkman in his Valentine's gift.
Bosca Dolce Credit Wallet
Upgrade your dad's old, trusty wallet with a new sturdy design like this one. It's also super easy to access with an I.D. case and bi-fold design.
North Drinkware The Teton Tumbler
Perfect for the outdoorsy dad, this glass is made with an imprint of a famous US mountain range to remind him of your adventures together whenever he pours himself a drink!
Valentine's Day Gifts For Kids
GUND Snuffles Plush
Snuffles will become your kid's new BFF. Gift him to give them a cute plush to play and cuddle with. Just look how cute he is! We def want one for ourselves.
YumEarth Valentine's Day Variety Box
Treat your little one to these yummy, naturally-flavored lollipops and gummies that they can also share with friends or classmates!
Smiley Face Lamp
Brighten up your child's room with a delightful reminder of happiness, and decorate with this iconic smiley face lamp.
Spritz Valentine Fabric Figural Duo Coffee & Donut
This stuffed toy makes the perfect pair look pretty yummy!
Gap Kids Cotton Crew Socks 7-Pack
This set of socks is perfectly practical – they can sport the colors any day.
Pottery Barn Kids Love Bug Heirloom Baby Blanket
Say "I love you" in the sweetest way by gifting your babe an heirloom piece like this Valentine's blanket that they'll get to cherish for the rest of their lives.
Sugarfina Sugar Lips Small Candy Cube Gummies
Your kiddo will have fun with these kissable (and edible) lips for V-Day. They might just be gone in one sitting!
Want more Valentine's Day gift ideas? Subscribe to our newsletter for more ways to show your love this year.
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
This post has been updated.
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
Brit + Co never plays around when it comes to holiday parties (or any parties for that matter). But around these parts, ain't no party like a white elephant or Secret Santa party because it's prime time for ridiculous gifts. From LED holiday flair to pocket manfriends (we'll explain), we've rounded up the ultimate buys for gift-swap domination. That's right — we're your one-stop shop for the absurd, the unusual, and the totally delightful.
Read on and prepare for a serious celebration of the random. Now, let's get this white elephant gift party started.
Oaxacan Floral Taper Candle
Take taper candles to a whole new delicate level with these hand-shaped candles.
5-Minute Daily Meditations
Gift this calendar featuring 5-minute meditations to help your pal get centered and focused for the new year.
Glitter Christmas Light Up Flashing LED Sunglasses
Gastro Obscura
From the team that brings you all the bizarre travel stops in Atlas Obscura comes this guide to what to eat around the world filled with food adventures and edible wonders.
Cat Stretch Ceramic Cup
Craftsman Beer Soap Sampler
Horse Head Squirrel Feeder
If you haven't seen this ridiculous thing going viral, it's time to get in the know. It's a squirrel feeder shaped like a horse head, so it looks like the squirrel is a mini-horse when he's snacking. Amazing.
Pears, Apples, and Cheese Gift
Fall fruit with a cheesy mix is a white elephant gift we would happily accept.
Campfire Cologne
Custom Shaped Pet Pillow
Is your pup or cat so narcissistic it only wants to snuggle with itself? There's a custom pet pillow for that.
Kitty Butt Coasters
Fried Egg Rug
Tipsy Elves Get Lit Light Up Ugly Christmas Sweater
Happy Feet Shark Slippers
Pocket Manfriend
Have a friend in need of a bearded companion? Get her/him a manfriend in pocket size - you can take him anywhere! Choose from 17 personalized guys.
Star Wars Millennium Falcon Bottle Opener & Keychain
Tattly Frida Kahlo Tattoo Set
For when you're not ready to commit to a real tattoo, try these fun faux tattoos.
Mariah Carey Merry Christmas Vinyl
Bow & Drape Just in Queso Striped T-Shirt
RaveLife Light Up Bow Tie
SheaMoisture Maracuja & Shea Oils Beard Conditioning Oil
Transparent Kitchen Safe
Piece Pie Puzzle
This gift might make the recipient hungry and take days to complete, but it'll make for a good time.
This Book is Literally Just Pictures of Animals Silently
The best coffee table on the market, hands down.
What white elephant gifts are you gifting this year? Share with us @BritandCo!
This article has been updated from a previous post.
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others and earn commissions, but we always offer genuine editorial recommendations
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
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.