Comedian, actor, and creatorMae Martinis making waves with their latest project Wayward, a horror-thriller series on Netflix that blends dark intensity with emotional truth. While the response has been largely positive, there are also critiques and concerns. Here’s a full look.
1. About Mae Martin
Mae Pearl Martin (born May 2, 1987) is a Canadian comedian, actor, writer, and singer-songwriter.
They identify as non-binary, use they/them pronouns, and came out publicly in 2021.
Martin has a background in comedy shows (“Feel Good”), stand-up, and recently released their debut indie rock album I’m a TV in early 2025.
2. What Wayward Is
Wayward is an eight-episode Netflix limited series, released worldwide on September 25, 2025.
Mae Martin is creator, showrunner, writer, and lead actor (playing Alex Dempsey, a trans police officer moving into the small town of Tall Pines).
The story centers on Tall Pines Academy, a troubled teen facility, and the unsettling power dynamics around it; themes include identity, belonging, manipulation, friendship, and trauma.
3. Positive Sentiments & Strengths:Mae Marin
Authenticity & personal connection: Martin’s own experiences and friendships inform the story, making it deeply felt.
Genre blending: Wayward mixes horror, psychological thriller, supernatural-like dread, and dark humor in ways that many reviewers say stay with viewers.
Artist growth: It’s a bold shift from Martin’s earlier comedic work to darker, more complex narratives. Many see this as growth and evolution.
Pacing & execution concerns: Some critics argue Wayward drags in places, with revelations delayed and tension built unevenly.
High expectations vs. audience comfort: Because of Martin’s reputation for comedy and emotionally raw storytelling, some fans may find Wayward darker or more unsettling than expected. Not all will embrace the horror-thriller tone.
Risk of alienation: Themes involving identity, gender, trauma, and the troubled teen industry are sensitive. If handled poorly, they can feel exploitative or oversimplified. So far, Martin has worked hard on research, but risk remains.
5. Inspiration & Creative Motivations
Mae Marin
Martin was inspired by a close friend (Nicole) who was sent to a troubled teen facility; that experience deeply shaped the show.
The “troubled teen industry” is a real system that has come under scrutiny in recent years for abuse and lack of regulation; Wayward aims to amplify awareness.
6. Casting & Collaborators
The cast includes Toni Collette as Evelyn (the enigmatic head of the troubled teen academy), Sarah Gadon, Sydney Topliffe, Alyvia Alyn Lind, Brandon Jay McLaren, Patrick J. Adams, and others.
Colloboration with producers and writers who have experience with these subjects, plus consulting from those with real experience in troubled youth systems, adds credibility.
7. Release & Public Response
Wayward premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival before streaming on Netflix on September 25, 2025.
On Rotten Tomatoes, the show has about 76% approval; on Metacritic, a rating in the low 70s, meaning generally favorable reviews.
8. Broader Impact & Discussion
The show is sparking discussions on how teenage rebellion, trauma, identity, and mental health are treated in media. Martin wants viewers to think, feel, and question.
It also raises concern about the real-life troubled teen residential facilities and how society labels youth who are struggling.
Final Thoughts:Mae Marin
Mae Marin
Mae Martin’s Wayward is a powerful, ambitious work. It showcases their growth as an artist willing to take risks — and while those risks bring some growing pains, many would argue they’re worth it. For fans of Martin’s earlier work like Feel Good, Wayward may feel darker, but it carries the same heart and boldness.
Who Is Mae Martin?
Mae Pearl Martin (born May 2, 1987) is a Canadian comedian, actor, screenwriter, and recording artist.
Uses they/them pronouns; identifies as nonbinary and queer.
Known for earlier work like Feel Good (TV series), comedy specials (e.g. SAP), podcasts, and their debut indie rock album I’m a TV released in 2025.
What Is Wayward?
Wayward is an eight-episode Netflix limited series created, written by, and starring Mae Martin.
Release date: September 25, 2025 on Netflix.
Production: filming took place in Ontario, Canada; it was formerly titled Tall Pines.
Setting: early 2000s (around 2003), in the fictional town of Tall Pines, Vermont. The story revolves around Tall Pines Academy, an institution for “troubled teens.”
Plot & Themes:Mae Marin
Mae Marin
The series follows multiple characters:
Alex Dempsey (Mae Martin) – a trans police officer moving to Tall Pines with pregnant wife Laura.
Laura (Sarah Gadon) – Laura grew up in Tall Pines and was once a student there; she begins to recall traumatic memories.
Teen characters Leila (Alyvia Alyn Lind) and Abbie (Sydney Topliffe) – friends who become involved with the institute and try to escape.
Major themes:
Trauma, psychological manipulation, cult-like power structures.
Identity/adolescence and the search for belonging.
The “troubled teen” industry and its real-world echoes. Drawing from Mae Martin’s personal connection (friend sent to a facility) and interviews.
Strengths & What People Like:Mae Marin
Strong performances, especially Toni Collette as Evelyn Wade, the head of the academy; critics praise her nuanced, chilling portrayal.
The emotional weight and authenticity — due to real-life inspiration and careful research.
Interesting blend of genres: thriller, psychological horror, drama with moments of levity. Not purely dark—it balances tension with moments that feel human and real.
Criticism & Challenges:Mae Marin
Some reviewers feel the pacing is uneven; revelations are sometimes delayed too much, causing tension sagging in parts.
Tone blending (comedy + horror + drama) may not be to everyone’s taste; some viewers find the shifts jarring.
Because it deals with sensitive topics (mental health, teen trauma, institutional abuse), there’s risk of triggering or discomfort; expectations are high for respectful handling.
Behind the Scenes & Inspiration:Mae Marin
Mae Martin used personal experiences: a friend (Nicole Simon) had been sent to a real troubled teen facility; she consulted people with such experiences in writing Wayward.
Research included looking into cults, 1970s recovery groups, and the troubled-teen residential treatment sector which has had real controversies in the U.S. and elsewhere.
Martin wanted to explore how the allure of belonging, of safety, of conformity, can be used manipulatively.
Reception & Where Things Stand:Mae Marin
On review aggregators: ~76% approval on Rotten Tomatoes; Metacritic score around 71/100, meaning generally favorable reviews.
The show was well received for its uniqueness and tackling of a rarely portrayed subject. But some critiques point to moments of melodrama or uneven execution.
Wayward is currently considered a limited series; there’s been no confirmation of a second season, though creators have suggested there may be more story to tell given some unresolved plot threads.
Why Wayward Matters:Mae Marin
It shines a light on an under-reported industry (troubled teen/residential treatment facilities) and raises awareness about abuses.
It contributes to representation: trans characters, queer perspectives, mental health themes are front and center.
As a piece of art, it challenges viewers to consider what systems of care can look like when wrapped in rhetoric of help—when the help is harmful.
Key Details at a Glance
Item
Info
Title
Wayward
Creator / Lead Star
Mae Martin
Episodes
8
Release Date
September 25, 2025
Platform
Netflix
Genre
Psychological thriller / horror + drama
Setting
Tall Pines (fictional), early 2000s
Main Cast
Toni Collette, Mae Martin, Sarah Gadon, Alyvia Alyn Lind, Sydney Topliffe
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Bills vs Lions: Thrilling Opener, Tough Test Ahead Tonight!!!
Bills vs Lions
The Bills vs Lions match up is set to headline Thursday Night Football as two unbeaten teams meet in Buffalo for a highly anticipated Week 2 showdown. Both the Buffalo Bills and Detroit Lions enter the game with 1-0 records after dramatic victories in Week 1. (FOX Sports)
Bills vs Lions Set for New Highmark Stadium Debut
The Detroit Lions will travel to Orchard Park to face the Buffalo Bills at the new Highmark Stadium. Thursday’s game marks the first regular-season NFL contest at the new venue, adding another storyline to an already significant matchup. Kickoff is scheduled for 8:15 p.m. ET, with Amazon Prime Video carrying the national broadcast. (Buffalo Bills)
The Bills enter the matchup after a 36-31 road victory over the Houston Texans. Josh Allen was central to the win, producing a four-touchdown performance as Buffalo rallied late to secure the victory. Tight end Dalton Kincaid also made a major impact with 130 receiving yards. (Syracuse)
Detroit also survived a close opening-week battle, defeating the New Orleans Saints 31-30 in overtime. Jahmyr Gibbs played a major role for the Lions, while Jared Goff and Detroit’s passing attack will now face a Buffalo defense that allowed 31 points in Week 1. (FuboTV)
Josh Allen and Jared Goff Take Center Stage
One of the biggest attractions of the Bills vs Lions game is the quarterback matchup between Josh Allen and Jared Goff.
Allen enters the contest after an impressive opening performance against Houston, while Goff helped guide Detroit through an overtime thriller against New Orleans. Both quarterbacks have experienced offenses around them, creating the potential for another high-scoring Thursday night contest. (Syracuse)
Detroit can also lean heavily on Gibbs, who rushed for 156 yards and two touchdowns against the Saints. Buffalo, meanwhile, will look to James Cook and its passing weapons to maintain offensive momentum. (LegalSportsBetting.com)
Injury Concerns Add Another Layer
Bills vs Lions
The short turnaround could make injuries particularly important.
Buffalo listed safety Cole Bishop, running back Ty Johnson and defensive lineman T.J. Sanders as questionable for Thursday night’s game. Linebacker Terrel Bernard was limited in practice but did not receive an injury designation. (Buffalo Bills)
Detroit also has injury concerns heading into the matchup. Offensive lineman Christian Mahogany and cornerback D.J. Reed were among the players carrying injury designations, while Detroit’s offensive line has been an important area to monitor after the Week 1 overtime win. (Dimers)
A High-Profile Week 2 Showdown
Bills vs Lions
The Bills vs Lions game brings together two teams that started the 2026 season with victories but also showed areas that need improvement.
Buffalo demonstrated offensive firepower in Houston but allowed 31 points. Detroit scored 31 against New Orleans but surrendered a 21-point lead before needing overtime to finish the victory. Those contrasting strengths and weaknesses could make Thursday’s matchup particularly intriguing. (LegalSportsBetting.com)
As the Bills prepare for their first regular-season game inside the new Highmark Stadium, the Lions arrive with momentum of their own. With both teams unbeaten, the Bills vs Lions clash has all the ingredients of an important early-season NFL matchup.
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Maria Bartiromo Leaves Fox News After 12 Years
Maria Bartiromo
Maria Bartiromo, one of the most recognizable names in American business television, is leaving Fox News Media after more than 12 years with the company.
Fox News Media announced on September 3, 2026, that Bartiromo is no longer with the network, effective immediately. The company thanked her for her 12½ years of work and wished her well in the next chapter of her career. Fox did not give a reason for the departure.
The announcement came as a surprise to many viewers because Bartiromo had been a familiar presence on both Fox Business Network and Fox News.
What Happened to Bartiromo?
Bartiromo’s final episode of Mornings with Maria aired Thursday morning. Beginning Friday, the program will become Mornings with FOX Business and will use rotating anchors.
Her weekly program,Bartiromo’s Wall Street, will also receive a new name: FBN’s Wall Street. Cheryl Casone will host the program initially, with other anchors expected to rotate into the position.
Meanwhile, Sunday Morning Futures will be hosted by Jason Chaffetz this Sunday while Fox News considers a permanent replacement.
A Remarkable Career on Wall Street:
Maria Bartiromo
Although her Fox departure is a major change, Bartiromo has already built an extraordinary career in financial journalism.
Before joining Fox Business in 2014, she spent about two decades at CNBC. She became particularly well known for her work covering Wall Street and financial markets.
In 1995, Bartiromo became the first journalist to report live regularly from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. The achievement helped establish her as a pioneering figure in television financial journalism.
Over her career, she has interviewed major business and political figures and received numerous awards, including two Emmy Awards and a Gracie Award. She was also inducted into the Cable Hall of Fame in 2011.
An Uncertain but Promising Next Chapter
Maria Bartiromo
The biggest unanswered question is what Maria Bartiromo will do next.
Fox News has not publicly explained why the relationship ended, and Bartiromo had not publicly commented on the announcement at the time of the initial reports. That leaves considerable uncertainty surrounding her immediate plans.
Despite the abrupt ending, her long career gives her several possible paths. She could return to financial broadcasting, expand her writing and commentary work, or pursue another role in media and business.
For now, her departure marks the end of an important era at Fox Business. But given Bartiromo’s experience, influence and long-standing presence in financial journalism, this may be less of an ending than the beginning of a new chapter.
Why Maria Bartiromo Remains Important
Maria Bartiromo
Maria Bartiromo has spent decades helping audiences understand markets, business and economic policy. From her pioneering work at the New York Stock Exchange to her years at CNBC and Fox, she has remained a prominent figure in American financial media.
Her sudden exit from Fox News may be disappointing for longtime viewers, but her career record suggests that her influence is unlikely to disappear anytime soon.
The next move from Maria Bartiromo could therefore be one of the most closely watched developments in financial media.
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Major League
Table of Contents Cardinals vs Cubs: Rivalry Delivers Another Memorable MLB Battle
Cardinals vs Cubs: Rivalry Delivers Another Memorable MLB Battle
Cardinals vs Cubs: Rivalry Delivers Another Memorable MLB Battle
Cardinals vs Cubs:
Cardinals vs Cubs
The Cardinals vs Cubs rivalry once again lived up to its reputation as one of Major League Baseball’s most exciting matchups. Fans witnessed an intense contest filled with dramatic moments, standout performances, and momentum swings that kept everyone on the edge of their seats. While one team celebrated a hard-earned victory, the other was left searching for answers after a disappointing defeat.
For decades, the rivalry between the St. Louis Cardinals and the Chicago Cubs has produced unforgettable games, and this latest encounter added another exciting chapter to their historic competition.
Strong Performances Light Up the Diamond
Both teams entered the game determined to gain an important advantage in the standings. The Cardinals relied on timely hitting and disciplined pitching, while the Cubs answered with aggressive offense and solid defensive plays.
Several players stepped up during key moments, delivering clutch hits and making spectacular defensive stops. The crowd responded with thunderous cheers as the game remained competitive from the opening inning until the final out.
Official MLB scores and game summaries are available at: https://www.mlb.com
Cardinals Capitalize on Key Opportunities;
Cardinals vs Cubs
The Cardinals took advantage of scoring chances by delivering timely hits with runners in scoring position. Their pitching staff also limited damage during critical innings, helping secure valuable momentum.
Strong teamwork and smart decision-making allowed St. Louis to stay composed even when the Cubs threatened to rally late in the game.
Cubs Show Fight Despite Disappointing Result
Although the Cubs came up short, there were several encouraging signs. Young players continued to develop, and the team’s offense created multiple scoring opportunities throughout the contest.
However, missed chances and costly mistakes ultimately proved too difficult to overcome. The loss may be disappointing, but Chicago can still build confidence from several positive individual performances.
Fans can follow the latest Cubs updates at: https://www.mlb.com/cubs
Historic Rivalry Continues to Captivate Baseball Fans
Few rivalries in baseball generate as much excitement as Cardinals vs Cubs. Every meeting carries playoff-like intensity regardless of the standings, making each game must-watch entertainment for baseball fans across the country.
With both clubs continuing their pursuit of postseason success, future meetings promise even more unforgettable moments.
The latest Cardinals news is available at: https://www.mlb.com/cardinals
Looking Ahead
As the MLB season continues, both teams will focus on improving consistency and climbing the standings. The Cardinals hope to build on their momentum, while the Cubs aim to bounce back quickly and avoid letting one loss define their season.
The rivalry remains one of baseball’s greatest attractions, ensuring that every future Cardinals vs Cubs matchup will draw national attention.
Conclusion
Cardinals vs Cubs
The latest Cardinals vs Cubs showdown delivered exactly what baseball fans expected—intensity, excitement, and unforgettable moments. While the winning side celebrated another important victory, the losing team left with valuable lessons and optimism for the games ahead. With plenty of baseball still to be played, this historic rivalry .