Denzel Washington is, without a doubt, one of the most prolific talents Hollywood has ever seen. The two-time Oscar winner becomes a chameleon on the big screen. He was phenomenal as Malcolm X in the biopic film, he was incredible as a desperate father in John Q, he was inspiring as a coach in Remember the Titans, and the list really does go on and on. And as wonderful as he is to watch in biopics and endearing dramas, he also excels in action thrillers. Case in point, HBO Max just added a popular action franchise of his, and it’s sure to provide some entertaining watching (or rewatching) for fans.
HBO Max Adds ‘The Equalizer’ Franchise
CANNES, FRANCE – MAY 19: Denzel Washington attends the “Highest 2 Lowest” red carpet at the 78th annual Cannes Film Festival at Palais des Festivals on May 19, 2025 in Cannes, France. (Photo by Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images)
Back in 2014, Washington teamed up with Michael director Antoine Fuqua and esteemed writer Richard Wenk to launch the film adaptations of The Equalizer. Based on the 1980s TV series of the same name, The Equalizer follows Washington’s Robert McCall, an ex-marine and intelligence officer, who makes it his mission to exact some vigilante justice, especially after a young acquaintance mistakenly gets involved with a crime syndicate. Here’s the official synopsis of the film:
“In The Equalizer, Denzel Washington plays McCall, a man who believes he has put his mysterious past behind him and dedicated himself to beginning a new, quiet life. But when McCall meets Teri (Chloë Grace Moretz), a young girl under the control of ultra-violent Russian gangsters, he can’t stand idly by — he has to help her. Armed with hidden skills that allow him to serve vengeance against anyone who would brutalize the helpless, McCall comes out of his self-imposed retirement and finds his desire for justice reawakened. If someone has a problem, if the odds are stacked against them, if they have nowhere else to turn, McCall will help. He is The Equalizer.”
The Equalizer 2 and The Equalizer 3 see Robert McCall continue in his quest to deliver his form of justice. It’s worth pointing out that critics by and large agree that The Equalizer 3 is the best of the franchise.
Will There Be an ‘Equalizer 4’?
In a remarkable feat, Washington confirmed with Esquire that there will, in fact, be a fourth installment in The Equalizer movie franchise. Not only that, but Washington confirmed there will be a fifth movie as well. As of publication, neither one has a published release date.
Again, the first three movies in The Equalizer franchise are available to stream on HBO Max with a subscription.
Stocking your beer cooler is a bit like keeping your toolbox or your wardrobe thoughtfully updated. Summer heatwaves demand both an adjusted sartorial outlook and a new take on your go-to beers as you hit your nearest beach, lake, or backyard BBQ. While there’s always a place for hop-forward styles like IPAs, summer is all about light lagers and pilsners when it comes to the American microbrews to savor now.
Sierra Nevada SummerFest 2026
(SIerra Nevada)
As clean and refreshing as a breezy day by the water, this lager delivers just a hint of lemon in an easily drinkable package. For days when even Sierra Nevada’s famed Pale Ale might prove a bit too malty, consider this an utterly crisp alternative from a foundational California brewery. $17.99/12-pack
Bell’s Flyover Light Lager
(Bell’s)
Beer from Bell’s is as synonymous with summers on the lake in its home state of Michigan as anything else. And while Bell’s Oberon reigns supreme as a stellar seasonal sipper, don’t sleep on Flyover Light Lager. It delivers a more flavorful tilt than other ultra-light beers, all the while calling to mind sunsets on Lake Michigan.$19.99/15-pack
Wicked Weed Freak of Nature
(Wicked Weed)
In the same way you might need to keep a lightweight flannel shirt on hand for cooler-than-expected bonfire nights, it’s a sensible move to have a delicious IPA on hand for hops-happy beer lovers. Wicked Weed is a proper modern Asheville, North Carolina institution, and a quartet of hops make this double IPA positively memorable. $13.49/6-pack
Threes Brewing Echo of Nothing with Lime
(Threes Brewing)
What is it about the acidic punch of lime that unlocks a new level of flavor in a lager? And while there are mass-market breweries aplenty that hang their hat on the Mexican lager, Brooklyn’s Threes Brewing delivers a thoughtful and still-crushable alternative. $15.99/4-pack
Lagunitas x Iron Maiden Trooper West Coast IPA 2026
(Lagunitas Brewing)
If any group was capable of turning up the volume in hops form as well as onstage, it’d be metal legends Iron Maiden. And in keeping with the Lagunitas tradition of crafting uncompromising California IPAs, the duo teamed up on a true-to-form update of the iconic Lagunitas profile just in time to toast five decades of the British rockers. $11.99/6-pack
Garage Beer Lime Beer Summer 2026
(Garage Beer)
The keep-it-simple formula of the brewery now backed by the Kelce brothers, media darlings and NFL champions alike, is again victorious with a small-batch lime beer that’s as drinkable as one might hope to find. For backyard BBQs and days on the water, this Columbus, Ohio brew is a nearly picture-perfect summer beer. $16.99/12-pack
Small Beer Lager
(Small Beer)
There’s no debating the joys of a richly crafted IPA, but the next-day hangover just might persuade you to reach for something lighter in the future. Just as Benicio Del Toro would have it, “a few small beers” are well within your reach this season, as this Colorado-brewed light lager clocks in at an ultra-low 2.5 percent ABV.
New Belgium Fat Tire 35th Anniversary Edition – Summer 2026
(New Belgium)
Colorado’s New Belgium Brewing is throwing it back three-plus decades with a limited-edition retooling of its Fat Tire Ale, one of the beers that first put the craft movement on the map. The effect of the classic recipe and the OG can design is retro-tinged and comforting, a fine sight to see in your cooler this holiday weekend and beyond. $11.99/6-pack
Allagash Seconds to Summer 2026
(Allagash Brewing)
Maine’s Allagash White remains nearly undefeated across the summer months, with its blend of coriander and delicate spice, while Allagash Seconds to Summer could be viewed as a lighter, smooth and crisp counterpart that pairs perfectly with grilled meats and ocean breezes. $23.99/12-pack
In a toast to the legendary beer’s frequent appearance in the 1970s classic Jaws, the Rhode Island brewery brings back the same famed can design, one that just so happens to hold its remarkably refreshing lager.
Earlier this week Idaho, Montana and Wyoming received heavy snowfall despite the calendar indicating summer was very much underway.
With the United States’ 250th birthday just a few days away, many in the region were left shoveling their driveways as some spots received as much as 16 inches of snow.
“It wasn’t just those two communities affected, though. Ski areas around the state received some fresh powder, highlighted by Discovery getting eight inches and Darkhorse Lake, near the Montana-Idaho state line, receiving 16 inches,” KTVQ wrote.
The snow isn’t quite done, though.
More Snow Coming to the U.S. as Some States Brace for Heat Indexes Over 110 Degrees
The snow is finally starting to wind down in some states, but drivers in the area were still dealing with significant travel issues.
“THIS is why the highway remains CLOSED at the MT/WY state line. Give the Plowboys time to get this mess cleared and conditions safe for travel. Monitor @511mt.net for accurate highway status information. Do NOT use map apps!” the official Beartooth Highway account said on social media showing snow drifts several feet high.
While Montana and Wyoming finish dealing with the fallout from the snow storm, parts of Alaska are under a new warning from the National Weather Service as snow and ice form to create possible “hazards.”
“Expected precipitation across N Alaska through Thu morning features steadier rain for the Upper Tanana Valley & E Alaska Range. Meanwhile, a frontal system brings rain and wintry mix to the NW Arctic Coast (Point Lay to Utqiagvik), with localized icing hazards possible,” the Fairbanks office of the National Weather Service said.
The official warning from the NWS runs from Tuesday night through Thursday.
As Montana and Wyoming clean up and Alaska prepares for more snow, other states are expected to see heat index temperatures well above 100 degrees, making it dangerous for some groups.
“With the combination of high humidity, heat indices may reach 100-110 Degrees,” said the NWS. “Much of the central and eastern U.S. is under a Moderate to Major HeatRisk, which can pose health impacts on those without hydration or cooling.”
In parts of New Jersey the “feels like” temperature is expected to reach 111 degrees.
Rockstar Games isn’t done with GTAV just yet. Even though GTA VI pre-orders are now live and the November 19 release date for the upcoming entry is essentially set in stone, Rockstar has announced a (presumably) final addition for the GTA Online community this month—the Kortz Center Heist.
(Rockstar Games)
Heists are end-game content in GTA Online. Requiring the outlay of significant resources and a team of operators, heists are multi-stage endeavors that require several set-up missions and end with huge, cinematic climaxes and big money payouts. In short, they’re awesome and theKortz Center Heist, the likely swan song for GTAV’s online, is unlikely to disappoint.
(Rockstar Games)
Having stolen everything from a casino’s vault, a nuclear submarine and all the loot from an island that would make Pablo Escobar jealous, The Kortz Center Heist entices players with a shot at nabbing a prestigious (and high value) art collection, right out from under the city’s nose.
(Rockstar Games)
Players will need one of GTAO’s new mansions to start, adding an art studio wing to the property which will open up the Kortz Center missions. From there, casing the museum, planning the approach and ultimately pulling off a spectacular robbery are the key components of this latest larceny.
(Rockstar Games)
The Kortz Center Heist doesn’t have a precise date other than some time in July but it has been confirmed that the update will also bring some additional changes to GTA Online. Top among them is the chance for returning players to upgrade their PS4 and Xbox One copies of the game to the current generation of PS5 and XSX for free. Similarly, owners of the legacy edition can also move to the enhanced one for free, giving them improved graphics and load times for the online component of the game.
(Rockstar Games)
The Kortz Center Heist is likely to be the final hurrah for GTA Online as we know it and it’s giving gamers a good reason to gather up their crew and return for GTAV’s chapter, just in time for a new adventure to begin in GTA VI. It’s a smart play from Rockstar, making one more big score before getting out of the game.
In 2026, when capri pants and balloon trousers are reigning supreme, it’s easy to forget the trusty staples that have seen you through years of chic outfits. I get it: you want to look on-trend, but that doesn’t mean you have to cast aside your wardrobe mainstays as soon as something new and shiny comes along. I’ll never forget the moment Alessandro Michele made the midi skirt a “thing” again. The then-creative director of Gucci sent a gold sunray-pleated design down the autumn/winter 2015 runway, and my world spun. We’d all been wearing spray-on jeans for the past decade, and suddenly, this unabashed femininity felt bold. It paved the way for the return of skirts, and I, for one, haven’t stopped revelling in the revival.
When noughties trends started creeping back in, I found myself worrying about the connotations of my old midi skirts if I dug them out again. Was it—whisper it—”frumpy” to wear such a thing? Did I need to invest in a low-rise, maybe drop-waisted version, or just forget it altogether? Then I checked myself. Obviously, no one who has witnessed the merry-go-round of trends (after a decade working as a fashion editor) and cares about the planet should ever throw away a decent item of clothing that they enjoy wearing.
The key to bringing your staples up to date? It is all in the styling, and right now, we’re focusing on shoes. From sneakerinas and wedge flip-flops to split-toe flats and high-vamp pumps, here are nine trending shoe styles to wear with your trusty midi skirt this season.
9 Midi-Skirt-and-Shoe Combos You Should Copy Immediately
1. Toe-Post Kitten Heels
(Image credit: @aimeesong)
Style Notes: We have the ’90s to thank for the embellished midi skirt. A microtrend that’s recently resurfaced, it’s typically a pencil cut (anything full would look too much like occasionwear), and sheer to showcase the detailing. To keep things casual, style yours with an easy tank top and this season’s favourite kitten-heel thong sandal à la Aimee Song.
ASOS Design
Havana Toe Thong Kitten Heel Sandals
Branch out from black with this chocolate-hued thong sandal, grounded with a sculpted kitten heel.
ASOS Design
Scattered Embellished Mesh Maxi Skirt in Cream
The embellished skirt is more versatile than you might first think. You can definitely dress this one down with a tank top and the right shoes.
Gucci
Mercato Medium Tote Bag
Monogrammed, leather-trimmed and finished with a polished horsebit fastening, this is our kind of practical tote.
Boden
Ribbed Cotton Vest in White
A tank top has the ability to make just about anything (yes, even a sparkly midi skirt) look low-key.
2. Sneakerinas
(Image credit: tia_dewitt)
Style Notes: Whilst I admit to Googling Lily Allen’s OG Nikes-and-dress combos since West End Girl dropped last year, I’m still not ready to revisit trainers with midi hemlines. If you want a comfy option though, try a sporty sneakerina to ground your daytime skirt.
Mint Velvet
White Cotton Full Midi Skirt
We love a midi skirt in crisp poplin. This one is lined in cotton, too, for breathability.
Vivaia
Square-Toe Hybrid Mesh Mary Janes
Loved by Bella Hadid and Charli XCX, Vivaia is a go-to for comfy but cool sneakerinas to wear on repeat.
LE SPECS
Pilferer Rectangular Ecozen Sunglasses
Le Specs is up there with the best affordable sunglasses brands.
Style Notes: We’re knee-deep in a noughties renaissance, so, naturally, the Y2K mule is back (I’ve been deep-searching Ravel and Faith styles on Vinted recently). If you’re a minimalist at heart, just pick one feature – a cork sole or buckled strap – to tap into the trend, while enthusiasts might even plump for diamanté embellishments or logo hardware. Pernille Teisbaek snapped up the coveted Balenciaga x Scholl design and styled it with a low-rise cargo skirt at Milan Design Week.
Balenciaga X Scholl
Heeled Sandals
Trust Balenciaga to put a futuristic riff on Scholl’s iconic clogs.
This cargo skirt is one of my favourite pieces from Victoria Beckham’s collaboration with GAP.
DeMellier
The Small Hudson | Black Small Grain
Everyone one needs a LBB (a little black bag) in their repertoire.
4. Wedge Flip Flops
(Image credit: @poppyalmond)
Style Notes: Another Y2K favourite that’s crept back in this season is the wedge flip flop, in all of its ugly glory. You can go full Spice Girls with a statement foam platform or lean into the minimalist side of this era with barely-there straps and a low sliver of wedge. Once you invest, you’ll see how transformative the ‘wrong’ shoe can be to an outfit you thought you were long tired of.
Damson Madder
Caspia Midi Skirt – Choc
The cargo skirt is back. Tap into the trend with workwear-inspired fabrics and utilitarian details like drawstrings, bunjee cords and pockets.
Reformation
Amelia Thong Wedge Sandal
Reformation’s shoes are impeccable quality. And by investing in a wedge, you’ll get all the height without the discomfort.
ERDEM
Embroidered Wool-Blend Cardigan
Erdem has the unique knack of making traditionally twee items feel off-kilter, like with the frayed appliqué detailing on this cardigan.
Sister Jane
Tinos Stripe Beaded Bag
Offset a utilitarian look with something unabashedly playful like this rainbow beaded bag.
5. Ballerinas
(Image credit: @evie_mills)
Style Notes: I know what you’re thinking, ‘aren’t ballerinas and midi skirts too girlish to be cool?’. The key to pulling off this combo: go for a flat with edge. A high vamp, a sporty sole, mesh or laser-cut uppers – or, for top marks, the cult split-toe Tabi made famous by Margiela in the ‘90s.
Maison Margiela
Tabi Split-Toe Ballerina Shoes |
There’s a few canonical designer pieces that will never date and Margiela’s iconic Tabis are obviously well worth the investment.
Nobodys Child
Ivory Polka Dot Midi Skirt
Classic but bang on-trend, a bold monochrome polka dot is a failsafe choice this summer.
M&S
Cotton Rich Tricot Zip Up Track Jacket
M&S’ jersey track jacket has been a serious hit this summer (the red is long sold out), so add it to basket while you still can.
Jimmy Fairly X Missoma
Melissa Cat-Eye Sunglasses | Gold Plated/black
Jimmy Fairly just collaborated with cult British jewellery brand Missoma on a glam range of sunnies complete with gold-vermeil accents.
6. Slingbacks and Socks
(Image credit: @hoskelsa)
Style Notes: For those who love the ladylike charm of a full-skirted silhouette and heels, there’s a fresh way to style this duo for spring/summer 2026. Simply add a sheer sock to your slingback shoes and you’re tapping into that magical Miuccia Prada paradigm; a look the first lady of fashion invented back in the ‘90s, where conservative silhouettes are somehow styled into something sporty and futuristic. Don’t ask me why, it just works.
H&M X Stella McCartney
Pointed Slingbacks
These white patent slingbacks are one of the few things left from H&M’s collab with Stella McCartney, so snap them up while you still can.
Glassworks London
Black Sheer Referee Stripe Socks
The easiest way to upgrade your existing footwear collection is with a sporty-but-sultry sheer sock.
MANGO
Flared Cotton Skirt
Mango gives the circle skirt a contemporary feel with pockets, pleating and a low-rise waist.
SKIMS
Sheer Rib Long Sleeve Top | Soot | Xxs
If you love to wear long sleeves even come summer, invest in a few sheer-knit basics and underpin with a tonal bra.
7. Block Heel Pumps
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Style Notes: Staple wardrobe queens will be looking for something a little less directional to wear with their midi skirt, and we can confirm a block heeled pump is a worthy investment. A canonical designer take from Bottega, Gucci and Roger Vivier is always smart, but for a spring/summer 2026 twist look to something with a high vamp like Ami Paris’s take, or Marks & Spencer’s affordable pair below.
M&S
Leather Block Heel Pumps
M&S I applaud you for the impeccable glove shape of this shoe.
STRATHBERRY
Mosaic Leather Top-Handle Bag
There’s a timelessness to a top-handle bag, a ladylike style that can be worn day or night.
Gina Tricot
Structured Fringe Mini Skirt in White Stripe
Fringing is the fun micro-trend taking over this summer.
Jenni Kayne
Float Top
With the rise of ’80s-inspired silhouettes, it was only a matter of time before the batwing sleeve made its comeback.
8. Wedges
(Image credit: @mv.tiangue)
Style Notes: Another ugly shoe coming in strong for spring/summer 2026 is a surprise even to us at WWW: the pump wedge. If you’re really not down with an ‘08 classic you saw women wearing to the office, dip your toe in with a cool mule (look to Le Monde Béryl and Topshop) or opt for a sculptural heel à la Toteme. Extra points for wearing this shoe with the style set’s favourite awkward-length skirt.
TOTEME
55 Crocodile-Effect Leather Wedge Pumps
Trust Toteme to make this divisive shoe trend look so elegant. These croc-effect leather pumps are set on a 2-inch wedge heel and finished with a pointed toe.
Faithfull
Marisol Lace-Trimmed Satin Midi Skirt
A lace-trimmed slip has become a bit of a wardrobe staple recently.
Chanel
Timeless/classique Leather Handbag
Those in-the-know are swapping neutral accessories for brightly coloured handbags like this hot-pink vintage Chanel.
The White Company
Organic Cotton Layering Short-Sleeve T-Shirt
You can always rely on The White Company to nail wardrobe basics.
9. High-vamp Pumps
(Image credit: @annelauremarais)
Style Notes: No fashion bunny could ever forget the moment when then-creative director Phoebe Philo sent a procession of glove shoes down the spring/summer 2015 Céline catwalk. And whether thanks to the 2026 obsession with 2016, or the ballet flat’s stronghold on footwear trends for the past few years, we’re witnessing a renaissance right now. This sportier take on a ladylike silhouette will freshen up even the simplest of outfits, as Anne-Laure Marais proves with this hank top and slip skirt combo.
Souer
Bala Leather Ballet Flats
French brand Souer knows how to put a directional spin on wardrobe staples — check out the high vamp on these simple black ballerinas.
With Nothing Underneath
Clara Skirt: Linen, White
With Nothing Underneath has expanded beyond its USP of shirts and shorts recently and we’re not mad about it. This linen slip skirt is impeccably cut.
Reformation
Jillian Silk Top
Much like most of Ref’s catnip collection, this handkerchief top is brimming with ’90s nostalgia – but the lustrous silk-satin adds a grown-up edge.
Veronica Beard
Marbled Resin Bangleivory
Simple summer outfits look so much better with the addition of statement jewellery. Forget minimalist gold chains and opt for a standout resin cuff instead.
