We heard your weekends were getting a little lonely without us. So we'll be coming to you every Saturday to break down the biggest talker of the week and give you the context you need to be part of the conversation. Plus, our recs to get the most out of your downtime.
...in your family group chat: How many families had TVs in the 1950s. And other fun facts. Worth the 72-year wait.
Rolling Up the Red Carpet
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And the Award for Most Irrelevant Goes To…Awards shows. For the first time in years, the Oscars had everyone talking. But not for the right reasons.
The Story
Awards shows like the Oscars and Grammys used to be among TV's biggest nights of the year. Not anymore. Streaming services, the pandemic, and scandals (see: #GrammysSoMale, Harvey Weinstein, #OscarsSoWhite) have sunk viewership and ratings.
But wait, I thought the Oscars had high ratings this year?
Not really. They were at an all-time low in 2021 — and this year wasn't looking better. That is, until Will Smith slapped Chris Rock onstage. The moment set the internet aflame. Overall, viewership went up 58% from last year. But that was still the second-lowest audience ever. And this isn't just an Oscars problem. The Golden Globes didn't even get airtime this year. Interest in the Grammys has also been on the decline. And the downward trend doesn't seem to be going away.
From pandemic woes to onstage foes, this awards season's been through the ringer. TBD if it'll close out that way. Or if drama and controversies can finally stop overshadowing genuine talent. Because if outbursts are all that awards shows have going for them for relevance, that's not a strong position to be in.
PS: 'The Slap' didn't come out of nowhere. Check out our latest episode of "Pop Cultured" for what led to that moment. And what's in store for tomorrow's Grammys.
Bookmark'd
The weekend means more time to do the things you love. For many of us, that's reading. But we can't Skimm it all for you. So instead, we're giving you a look at the reads we've saved, texted, and emailed to our friends…
What Is Type II Fun?…yes, there are different kinds of fun. And, no, you're probably not getting enough of it.
In Bloom
Together with
Happy spring, Skimm'rs. Aka happy fresh herbs season. If you're looking for a project this weekend, we've got an idea for you: growing your own from home.
A few tips to get you started: Basil, chives, and parsley are great go-tos that'll thrive under your (green) thumb. They'll all benefit from being placed near a warm, sunny window. And when the time comes to pluck (and add liberally to your fave meals), be sure to harvest from the top down.
Another hot tip? You can get all the seeds you need – plus the rest of your spring essentials – delivered free† and fast with a Walmart+ membership. You better be-leaf it.
Oh, and if you want to take your cooking to another level, try whipping up one of her glorious dishes. (See: Any of the above. Or, another fave, Julia's cheese soufflé.) Bon appétit.
Eyes On
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Next week, Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson'snominationto the Supreme Court is up for aSen. Judiciary Committee vote (April 4). Then there's a series of procedural votes, and finally a confirmation vote (which could happen late next week).KBJ's likely to get full support from Democrats.But one big question remains:How many Republicans will vote"aye?"
Skimm Picks
Need recs? You're in luck. We've rounded up stuff that can make life easier, aaand save you time and money.
1. A makeup remover pad you can use up to 200 times. Yes, really. Just add water and this super soft cleansing cloud will wipe your face clean. It's easy on your skin, your wallet, and Mother Earth. Do it to it.
2. An onion chopping tool that can save you some tears. And make meal prep easier. With this magical device, you can cut and measure in one swoop. Plus, it's dishwasher safe. Get cooking.
3. Bleach-free bathroom spray that'll do the hard work for you. Say 'bye' to scrubbing and 'why hello there' to a spotless sink, shower, or tub with this scum-fighter. Just apply once a week, and let it do its thing. So fresh and so clean, clean.
Skimm More
More Skimm, less problems. Here's what else to check out…
PS: Want more events like this on your cal? theSkimm App gives you a heads-up on when everything from holidays to sports games are going down. Download it here.
theSkimm Loyalty Program
Design: theSkimm
Psst…have you heard? We launched our new Loyalty Program and you're invited to join. Engage with our content, earn points, and use those points to unlock rewards. Think: swag, exclusive content, sweepstakes, and more. Start earning and get in on it here.
Skimm'd by Rasheeda Campbell, Xian Chiang-Waren, Melissa Goldberg, and Clem Robineau
