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grounded issue LUKE COOK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JP VELARDE

ISSN 2769-5077

#231

ISSN 2769-5069

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ISSUE 231

Table of CONTENTS

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u L 2025

COVER LOOK

Full Look CALVIN KLEIN @calvinklein Shoes ADIDAS @adidas

04 Letter From The Editor 05 BELLO Obsessions

66 Acalpuco Farewell

06 Luke Cook

68 Inspired Mocktails

21 Alex Sampson

72 Las Colinas Dreams | Digital Fashion Tale

38 Andrew Liner

83 Beneath The Wild Sun | BELLO Style

47 Matt Cornett | BELLO YH 60 Kelly MiLi | BELLO Creative Minds

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64 Wednesday Returns

94 Joey Gore + Grayson Shelton | New Faces 100 Rayan Ricci | BELLO Style

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LEtter From The Editor Bello

Digital Art by Stéphane Marquet

The Grounded Issue Dear Readers, We’re living in a time where instability is the new norm. Where uncertainty isn’t just a byproduct of change, but often feels manufactured. Designed to keep us unsteady. To distract. To exhaust. In that kind of climate, being grounded becomes more than a state of mind. It becomes a quiet act of resistance. To stay grounded is to hold your own frequency when the world keeps shifting its tune. It means being selective with your energy. Rooting into values that don’t waver with headlines or algorithms. You don’t have to keep up with the noise. You don’t have to outrun the chaos. There is power in choosing presence. In planting your feet firmly in what feels true to you. This issue is a small pause. A breath. A reminder that clarity doesn’t come from force but from stillness. That wholeness isn’t loud but unshakable. Stay rooted. Stay real. Stay grounded. Sincerely,

Stéphane Marquet

issue #231

Curated by Stephane Marquet

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Luke

COOK

Is Done Asking for Permission

LUKE COOK @thelukecook Photography JP VELARDE @jpvelarde Styling SEBASTIAN BLAZELY @sebastianblazely Grooming ANGELINA BRADATSCH Stylist assistant KRISTINA ANGELA @kristinaangelaaa Conversation by ALEXANDRA TUIL @alexandratuil Conversation ALEKSANDAR TOMOVIC @alekandsteph MAISON PRIVEE X BELLO MEDIA GROUP @maisonpriveepr_la @bellomediagroup

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Sunglasses GIVENCHY

nterview INTERVIEW

From “Chilling Adventures of Sabrina” to “Good Cop, Bad Cop,” the Australian actor on fatherhood, fart jokes, and finding freedom in being a goofball. “Honestly,” Luke Cook says with a grin, “I’m still an idiot.” He’s sitting across from us, post-photo shoot, arms comfortably folded like someone who knows how to laugh at the world, and himself. Since we last featured him in 2019 for VULKAN, BELLO’s sister publication, Cook has shapeshifted in all the best ways. He’s gained ten kilos of pure muscle, become a devoted father to two sons, and landed his very first lead role in a network series. “I feel like I’m a man now,” he reflects. “I didn’t have kids back then. Now I do. And I get to lead a show, for the first time ever. That’s a big shift. But also, like I said, still an idiot.” And yet, that "idiot" almost didn’t audition for Good Cop, Bad Cop. When the offer first came in, Cook turned it down. “I was like, ‘I don’t think I can play that,’” he admits. “There are people who can do this better.” But the team behind the show kept pushing, they believed in him, even before he did. “Who the hell are these people who know me better than I know myself?” he laughs. “Eventually, I said fine. And they were like, ‘That’s him. That’s our guy.’” From the very first scene on set, something clicked. “We rehearsed a little bit, shot it, and the showrunner came up to me and said, ‘That was perfect.’ That’s when I knew, okay, I got this.” The role turned out to be a surprising fit. “He’s the oddball. My sister’s the straight guy, she’s the feelings, I’m the facts,” Cook explains. “I never thought I could play someone like that. And then I did.” That revelation, the thrill of rising to a challenge he almost declined, is still fresh in his voice. The show, he tells us, was as fun behind the scenes as it is on screen. “We laughed constantly. Sure, TV is a lot of work. It’s fast-paced and slowpaced at the same time. Lots of waiting, then you’re suddenly on. But the camaraderie, the friendships, that’s everything.” His favorite moment? “In Australia, if you need to fart, you say ‘Pull my finger.’ So I did that to Leighton, two weeks into knowing her. I let it rip on set, while mic’d up. Everyone heard it. I still don’t know how she took it.” That irreverent humor, the same mischievous spark fans love in his online sketches, was born out of something simpler than ambition: boredom. “No one was hiring me,” he says. “I had all this creative energy and nowhere to put it. So I started making videos. The beauty of social media? You don’t need anyone’s permission.” For Cook, social media became a space where he could be unapologetically himself, free from gatekeepers or expectations. “Just do the thing only you can do. Don’t ask. Don’t wait for someone to give you the green light. Just start.” He’s seen firsthand how rough those early efforts can be “some people suck at first,” he says, “but two years later, they’re great” and it’s that persistence that he champions.

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Still, he’s aware that digital fame doesn’t necessarily equate to financial freedom. “You can be successful and not make money. Society messes with that idea. But when I get messages from people saying my stupid videos lifted them out of a bad day, that means something.” And despite the layered humor that defines his content, Cook isn’t out to make social commentary or political statements. “It’s mostly just good fun,” he shrugs. “Sometimes it’s self-expression. But I don’t want to isolate people. I want everyone to feel welcome to have a laugh.” Even as his creative output continues to grow, he’s careful not to let any one version of himself define the whole. “People will quote my catchphrases back to me, and I think cool, but I’m not just that guy. I want to be ever-evolving. I want to be a chameleon. I want to disappear and pop up somewhere unexpected.” He credits some of this to his Sagittarius nature. “I want to learn a little of everything. Try different things. Do them right.” He’s not chasing a niche, even if he occasionally envies those who do. “Celeste Barber? She nailed a niche and repeated it to perfection. She’s killing it. I respect that. But me? I’d get bored. I want to keep people guessing.” There’s a freedom, too, in embracing contradiction, especially when balancing comedic work with dramatic roles. “People sometimes say, ‘I couldn’t take you seriously in this role,’ and I’m like well, that’s your lack of imagination, isn’t it?” he says. “We’re all multifaceted. I like doing both. I like surprising people.” At the core of everything, though, is creativity. “I just want to be creatively fulfilled,” he says. “If I can make money doing that, amazing. But even when you’re pulled into commercial stuff, or jobs that don’t excite you, you still hope you can carve out something real.” When we ask what his dream looks like, he doesn’t miss a beat: “Mark Wahlberg. But less douchey.” He laughs. “He’s got the tequila, the prayer app, the clothing brand, and all the movies. I want that, but fun, and things I actually believe in. I want to make stuff, sell stuff, act in a bunch of things, and feel good about all of it.”

me,” he says. “That helps.” Fame hasn’t changed how he walks down the street, or how he sees himself. “People like me because I’m normal, or human. That’s how I want it.” Of course, that could all shift if one breakout role changes the game. “Let’s talk again in five years,” he grins. “We’ll see if I’ve found that one character who follows me around forever.” He’s game for it all, fantasy epics, period dramas, swords, and knights. “I’d love to do that stuff,” he says. “But no one’s come to me with it yet. I’m praying it happens.” In the meantime, the actor stays creatively recharged through a ritual that grounds him more than any red carpet: exercise. “That hour in the gym? It’s my meditation. Push heavy stuff, clear my head. I go in moody, come out better. It’s always been the thing that balances me.” Fatherhood helps too. “Kids cure moodiness fast. You don’t have time to wallow when they need you. Everything becomes about them, and that’s a good thing.” As for what’s next? He’s relaunching Shakewell, his clean, filler-free protein drink, in May. And later this year, he stars in Watching You (on Stan), a psychological thriller. “It’s an Aussie show, and hopefully it finds a big audience now that it’s landing on a major platform.” When pressed to choose between a critically acclaimed dramatic role or a wildly successful sitcom, Cook doesn’t hesitate. “Give me the sitcom. Let me be creative and feed my family. I don’t need an award. I need to enjoy my job and put food on the table. That’s it.” And if there’s one thing he hopes people take away from everything he creates, whether it’s a scripted scene, a sketch, or a protein shake, it’s this: “Have fun. We’re on this planet for such a short time. People take everything so seriously. But we’re all going to die. And everything we love will pass. So why not dance for ten seconds?” Like the hummingbird he describes, darting through life in unpredictable, joyful zigzags, Luke Cook isn’t here for the straight line. He’s here for the ride.

And while that ambition burns bright, his feet remain firmly on the ground. “No one worships

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grounded issue ALEX SAMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEN ROSENSTEIN

ISSN 2769-5077

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x e l n o Amps a S A Hopeless Romantic on the Risee ALEX SAMPSON @hollingsworthb Photography JEN ROSENSTEIN @jenrosenstein Styling MICHAEL FUSCO @MikeyStyles Grooming AIKA DANICA FLORES @by.aikaflores Conversation ALEKSANDAR TOMOVIC @alekandsteph Styling Assistant RACHEL COCCA @rachelcocca At just 21 years old, Alex Sampson has already achieved what many artists only dream of: semi-finalist on America’s Got Talent, breakout viral success, a charting EP, and now touring North America alongside the likes of Alexander Stewartand Jamie Miller. But behind the stage lights and social media buzz is a young artist finding his rhythm, and himself, one lyric at a time. As his tour bus rolls from city to city, Alex is reflecting on the whirlwind.

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SET: HELMUT LANG @HELMUTLANG

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“Touring has taught me so much about myself as both an artist and a person. Artistically, it’s shown me how to connect with my fans in a way I never could online, it’s refreshing and incredibly rewarding. Personally, I’ve learned my limits, especially when it comes to pushing myself and my voice. Life on the road can be really demanding, but it's helped me grow so much.” Before his name graced festival posters, Alex captured national attention as a fan favorite on America’s Got Talent. Making it to the semi-finals gave him a major platform and a surreal memory he’s still processing. “Making it to the semifinals on AGT was such a surreal experience. Honestly, when I watch it back, it doesn’t even feel like I’m watching myself, it’s wild. I’m incredibly grateful for that opportunity. It really changed things for me, especially when my songs hit the iTunes charts for the first time because of the show. That’s something I’ll never forget.” That momentum carried into his breakout EP, Hopeless Romantic, which wrapped vintage charm in modern pop sensibility. Drawing from the golden eras of the '50s and '60s, Alex set out to craft something nostalgic yet now. “While writing Hopeless Romantic, I was really inspired by the authentic sound of the '50s and '60s, but I wanted to mix in a modern flare and make it my own. Emotionally, it was a pivotal moment in my life, I had just gotten through my first AGT audition and knew the judges liked the style of ‘Pretty Baby,’ so there was pressure to follow it up with something equally strong, if not better.” For Sampson, the songwriting process is instinctual. Emotion guides the lyrics, while his natural pop leanings do the rest. “Honestly, I just write and sing whatever feels the best in the moment. I try not to overthink it. Whatever I’m going through emotionally tends to shape the lyrics, and since I’m a pop guy at heart, those catchy little melodies just kind of come naturally LOL.” That authenticity hasn’t gone unnoticed. When People Magazine named him one of their “Emerging Artists Making Their Mark,” it became a defining full-circle moment. “That was seriously the coolest thing ever. I’m still getting used to being featured in outlets like that, so seeing my name in People was a huge moment. It felt awesome to be recognized on that level.” Yet for Alex, it all started long before red carpets and writeups. One viral TikTok in 2019 changed everything. “The moment I released my first single back in 2019 and saw my very first TikTok about it go viral, that’s when everything changed. That post kind of kickstarted my whole career, and I’m super grateful for it. Without that moment, who knows where I’d be today?” 25

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Stage presence, like songwriting, is something he’s had to grow into. And while AGT gave him massive exposure, it was touring that gave him his footing. “I definitely feel more confident on stage now than I did during AGT. I always say this, but I really wish I had toured before going on the show. I think I would’ve done so much better with that experience under my belt.” Creatively, inspiration strikes when it wants to. For Alex, melody often leads the way no matter where he is. “It honestly changes, but usually, the melody comes first. I’ll get ideas at the most random times, on a flight, in the car, even while hanging out with friends. Once I’m in the studio, I’ll start humming a melody and then work lyrics around it.” And yes, being a “hopeless romantic” isn’t just a title it’s a lifestyle. One that sometimes clashes with the reality of touring. “I think it’s both a help and a hindrance. Being away from the people I love for long stretches definitely hurts but at the same time, it’s that love that keeps me going. Knowing they’re proud of me and want the best for me makes the distance a little easier to handle.” If he could offer a word of advice to his younger self, the one nervously posting those first clips online, he knows exactly what he’d say. “I’d probably just tell him that everything is going to be okay. Stay consistent with posting on social media, and maybe learn guitar a bit faster!” Fans, of course, are central to his journey, and some moments will never leave him. “There was this amazing girl in Toronto who came up to me and told me she was cancer-free and that my music helped her get through treatment. She was crying, and it was such a beautiful, emotional moment. It meant the world to me. Moments like that are the reason I do what I do.” As for what’s next? Alex is already in the studio, taking bold creative steps toward his next chapter. “Yes! I’m currently in the studio and working on developing a new sound, something that feels even more personal and true to who I am. I’m exploring what I want to say in my music and trying to craft something that really stands out. It’s scary and exciting at the same time, but I know it’s going to be the most ‘me’ it’s ever been.” From viral beginnings to international stages, Alex Sampson isn’t just building a fanbase, he’s building a legacy. And if his journey so far is any sign, the best is still to come.

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ANDREW LINER City Roots, Western Soul: Andrew Liner in His Element Born and raised in Los Angeles, Andrew Liner didn’t grow up chasing the spotlight. With a childhood shaped by sports and family time, particularly movie nights with his dad, acting was far from a clear path. But today, Andrew stands at the intersection of performance and passion—an actor, musician, and model who brings depth and authenticity to everything he touches. From riding horses in New Mexico to singing in high school choirs, his journey has been anything but conventional. In this BELLO feature, Andrew reflects on his craft, the roles that moved him, and how he’s shaping a career on his own terms. ANDREW LINER @drew.liner Producer Stylist AMBIKA SANJANA @styledbyambika Photographer LAUREN JOHNSON @harborgraceco Videographer TIM @filmedbytim Grooming NADIA HOECKLIN @nadiahoecklin Stylist Assistant SARAH GIBSON @sarahmgibsonn Publicist SEAN REILLY @seanreillyla and ED SOLORZANO @edsolo87 at @THEBRAND.PARTNERS Production x Location BELLO MEDIA GROUP X MAISON PRIVÉE @bellomediagroup x @maisonpriveepr_la

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As a true Los Angeles native, what were some highlights of growing up in the city? Was acting an obvious choice of career due to growing up in the city? Surprisingly enough, acting wasn’t even a thought for me growing up in LA. If anything, I was urged against it. I have two brothers about the same age as me and my parents had us busy playing every sport all year round. We all wanted to be athletes growing up. I loved growing up in LA because the weather was always perfect and the sports were at such a high level, it drove me and my brother to get better every day. LA also has the perfect balance of work and play. We had the ability to be in the beach, desert, or snowy mountains within hours. Also growing up, my Dad would take us to the movies every Saturday and that’s what started my love for film.

lot of seasoned, accomplished, professional actors, and just watching them, and asking for advice has been the most valuable thing for me as an actor. What was the most memorable moment on set with the new show Ransom Canyon? The most memorable moment on set for me was riding horses in New Mexico at sunset. It was one of those moments where I felt truly connected to the space around me and present within myself while feeling an immense amount of gratitude. It was just one of those moments that was extremely grounding and profound, but didn’t have anything attached to it, but was a moment for me to be thankful and content. Are there any upcoming projects that excite you? What should we be looking out for? I did a movie called Bang Bang starring Tim Blake Nelson and directed by Vincent Grashaw, and a movie called Please Don’t Feed the Children directed by Destry Spielberg starring Michelle Dockery and both of those movies should be coming out this year.

In Ransom Canyon, you portray Reid Collins, a character rooted in Texas ranch life. Did this role inspire any changes in your personal style or wardrobe preferences? After playing Reid, I wore my boots a lot more. My style changed a bit for sure, and I definitely leaned more into a country western style mixed with the city kid in me. I love my cowboy boots and Levi’s and nothing beats that. Our costumer Olivia Miles came to me and wanted to combine Reid’s style with mine, so that’s how we got the cowboy city kid mix.

How does your experience in modeling inform your understanding of fashion trends and your personal style evolution? Just like all creative things, people have preferences and the more you do something the more you find your own preference. So, the more I’ve gotten to model the more I found my looks and what I like. Also growing up as a little boy my Mom used to dress us head to toe in Ralph Lauren, sets, you name it. We were stylish kids so that had a big impact on my fashion.

As someone who seamlessly transitions between acting, modeling, and music, which medium do you enjoy the most and why? Acting is my true love. When I act, I feel like I can truly touch people in a real way. I don’t think I’m there yet with music or modeling. I love to write music and sing; I was a Madrigal singer in high school and choir was one of, if not the most impactful part of high school for me, so music has a hold on me for sure. Modeling isn’t something I’ve ever thought of doing and I don’t really think I’m too good at it, but my little brother is a phenomenal photographer and he can make me look good even if I look like a dope.

What advice would you give to young creatives looking to develop a distinctive path in this field? I would tell young creatives to control the controllables. Also, if you haven’t found anything for you, go make the thing for you. Don’t wait on anyone else to do something for you when you have the ability to do something for yourself. As creatives, we should never just be one thing. Give yourself value and be multifaceted. Write, direct, learn. If you’re going to dive in, truly dive in.

Can you share some highlights of the favorite projects you’ve worked on? I did a film called Bang Bang, starring Tim Blake Nelson and directed by Vincent Grashaw. Being able to play a boxer alongside Tim was definitely a dream for me. Also from a personal standpoint, to pour my athletics into a role and mend art with my athletics was definitely something I’ve dreamed about. I’m very proud of Bang Bang. I think it is some of my strongest work, and I’m so excited for people to see it. In Vampire Academy, I got to work with an amazing stunt team and they all became some of my best friends. Having eight months of stunt training has definitely added a lot to my career and made me a more diverse actor in general. I feel like I’ve got to work with a 41

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BelloYOUNG

HOLLYWOOD

grounded issue MATT CORNETT PHOTOGRAPHY BY HENRY WU

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Matt Cornett has been in the industry long enough to know what it takes to grow with each role. From his early days on Nickelodeon to becoming a Disney fan favorite on High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, he’s built a career grounded in consistency and passion. With his latest film Summer of ‘69 premiering at SXSW, Matt is taking on new challenges and expanding his range. In this Young Hollywood feature, he opens up about what keeps him focused, how he approaches each character, and why staying connected to his roots matters more than ever. MATT CORNETT @mattcornett Photography HENRY WU @hello.henry Styling VETA ADRION @vetastyledme Grooming AIKA DANICA FLORES @by.aikaflores Conversation ALEKSANDAR TOMOVIC @alekandsteph Styling Assistant JESSICA GRABER @jessicaonfilm Production + Location MAISON PRIVEE X BELLO MEDIA GROUP @bellomediagroup x @maisonpriveepr_la You’ve been in the spotlight since a young age, how has your relationship with acting evolved over the years? Growing up I was always a huge fan of movies growing up. My dad and I would go to the movies every Friday night, and that was always such an amazing way to get out of the daily things happening and give a bit of a release from worldly stresses. Acting has always been something I’ve done because I enjoy the ability to get to play and have fun. But, more than that, it’s always been a way for me to give people that escape that I always looked forward to every week.

Tell us about your new film, Summer of ‘69. What drew you to the project? My favorite thing about this movie is that while it is so ridiculously crazy and hilarious, it has such incredibly deep heart and an amazing story driving it. It’s a dual coming-of-age story between two women who are in completely different stages of life, yet still teaching each other things, showing that no matter where you’re at in life, as long as you’re being you and embracing that you’re set. It’s amazing to see, and something I hope audiences can take away from the movie. What was it like to attend the premiere of Summer of ‘69 at South by Southwest and watch the film for the very first time with an audience? Oh my goodness, it was a WHIRLWIND in all of the best ways. I was incredibly nervous going into the premiere because I hadn’t seen an ounce of the film at that point. So, the idea that I was going to be seeing it for the first time with 1,200 people was a bit daunting haha. But once I started hearing the audience react to what we all put so much love and care into, all the nerves were out the window. At the end of the day, you want people to love it, and from the sound of their reactions, they sure loved it.

What was the first moment on set where you felt, “This is where I belong”? I had worked on a few projects that really showed me that this is the career that I wanted to pursue, but I think the biggest moment for me was when I was working on the Nickelodeon show Bella and the Bulldogs. That was the first time I was on a show for more than just one episode. The friendships, and really family, that you cultivate by working with people every single day and getting to just goof off and have fun with people you love really gave me that fire to want to keep doing it forever. You’ve played a range of characters, including E.J. on High School Musical: The Musical: The Series. How do you approach stepping into someone else’s shoes? Ya know, a lot of times it’s really just about reading the script a bunch of times and trying to find the small, little nuances of a character that isn’t written on the page. You learn through the things you see written to figure out how’d characters would react in different scenarios or different relationships they have. I think it’s a completely different approach when you’re playing someone that has a ton of emotional depth to them; I think you really start to dive into the why behind every single tiny move they make.

How do you balance your personal identity with the public persona fans have come to know? I think the biggest thing for me is that I only utilize social media to the extent that I need to for work and for my own enjoyment. I try not to look too deep into comments or fan edits or anything like that or let myself get consumed into thinking I’m someone I’m not. While I do still look at comments and tagged posts – because I love seeing the things that people put their heart and effort into – I think the intake of those things in moderation is important.

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If you could write your dream role from scratch, what kind of character would you create? I feel like my dream role has changed so much as I get older and keep growing as an actor. There continue to be new and different things that I want to explore in my work, which I think is something that will always shift a bit. As of right now, I would love to play something military-related. There is so much to explore with a person who’s been through the act of war; it is something that puts such an immense toll on every single aspect of a person’s life and being. It’s something I’d love to try and dive into. Is there a specific moment in your career so far that you look back on as a turning point? By far I believe HSMTMTS (High School Musical: The Musical: The Series) has been the biggest turning point in my career thus far. That show changed my life in so many ways, and I will forever be so incredibly grateful for that show, for those people, and for those 4 years of my life. What do you do to stay grounded when the industry starts to feel overwhelming? I go home. I call my parents, I see my family, and I go back to Arkansas for a week or two just to reset and slow down. It’s so incredibly easy to get bogged down by the weight of this industry, compare yourself to others, or see people doing things that you wish you were doing. Especially when you’re working so much, it’s easy to lose the sense of normal life and what it feels like to slow down a bit. As someone who grew up watching Disney, what was it like to become part of that legacy? It was huge, and I will forever love Disney, the work I’ve been able to do with them, and, hopefully, continue to do with them in the future. The Disney family is so loving and so welcoming. It truly does just feel like one big happy family. If you could give your younger self one piece of advice before stepping into the industry, what would it be? Don’t let what other people say you can’t do dictate what you do. Use that to fuel yourself to push yourself even harder. What are you most excited about in this next chapter — whether in acting, life, or otherwise? I’m really just excited to see where my career continues to take me. I have been so incredibly fortunate to have met so many wonderful people and traveled to amazing places and gotten to do seriously bucket list things all because of my job. So, I can’t wait for the relationships that are to be made in the future, and the smiles I am hopefully able to put on people faces through my work.

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jacket: Paisley & Gray @paisleyandgray shorts: Dr.t @drtlife shoes: Scotch & Soda @scotchandsoda

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overshirt: Scotch & Soda @scotchandsoda sweater: JW Anderson @jw_anderson jeans: Scotch & Soda @scotchandsoda shoes: Jean Baptiste Rautureau @jb_rautureau

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vest: Scotch & Soda @scotchandsoda jeans: Scotch & Soda @scotchandsoda shoes: Toms @toms

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jacket: Samuel Gartner @samuelgaertner tank: Hanes @hanes pants: Charles & Ron @charlesandron shoes: Toms @toms

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jacket: Paisley & Gray @paisleyandgray shorts: Dr.t @drtlife shoes: Scotch & Soda @scotchandsoda

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sweater: Wax London @waxlondonclothing

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vest: Scotch & Soda @scotchandsoda jeans: Scotch & Soda @scotchandsoda shoes: Toms @toms

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KELLY MI LI

Creative Minds Bello

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From Screen to Sauce: The Bold, Unfiltered World of Kelly Mi Li From producing groundbreaking television to launching her own food brand, Kelly Mi Li has built a career defined by intention, resilience, and cultural impact. “I’ve always been fascinated by the power of storytelling,” she reflects. “Producing allows me to champion overlooked narratives and bring real people’s complexity to the screen.” Drawn to stories of identity and transformation, Kelly’s work moves effortlessly between scripted dramas, documentaries, and unscripted formats. With Bling Empire, she witnessed firsthand how visibility can shift narratives. “It was the first time an all-Asian-led cast was on a global reality series, and people reached out saying, ‘I’ve never seen a family that looked like mine on TV.’ That kind of impact is something I’ll never take for granted.” She credits the show for broadening conversations around Asian identity and mental health, recalling her own vulnerability in sharing her therapy journey on camera. Her latest venture, Stir The Pot, blends meaningful conversation with the communal warmth of hot pot. The show, which earned three Telly Awards, was created “to give guests space to open up over food that brings people together.” Kelly sees its success as proof that audiences crave authenticity. That same authenticity inspired Hot Jiang, a food brand born from her mother’s Yunnan chili oil recipe. “Building a consumer brand is a completely different hustle, but it’s rooted in the same thing—creating something meaningful that connects with people.” Balancing creative work, entrepreneurship, and motherhood has reshaped her perspective. “There’s no such thing as a typical day anymore. Some days I’m in full business mode; others, I consider it a win if I manage to answer a few emails.” Through it all, Kelly’s guiding principle remains clear: “Does this tell a meaningful story? Does it uplift voices or bring value? If not, I let it go.” She encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to embrace adaptability, self-awareness, and purpose: “Trends come and go, but knowing why you do what you do keeps you grounded.” As she looks to the future, Kelly is focused on moving with intention. “Whether I’m creating, parenting, or building, I want to enjoy where I am in the process.” For the full interview, visit bellomag.com/creativeminds

Kelly Mi Li @kellymili Photography Alek Tomovic @alekandsteph Hair Kelly Zhang and Cam Chung @kellyzhangstudio using T3 @t3micro Make Up Erik Torppe @theglamjew using @shiseido and @rarebeauty Hot Sauce: HOT JIANG @hotjiang

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Wednesday. (L to R) Joonas Suotamo as Lurch, Catherine Zeta-Jones as Morticia Addams, Jenna Ortega as Wednesday, Isaac Ordonez aș Pugsley Addams, Thing, Luis Guzmán as Gomez Addams in episode 201 of Wednesday. Cr. Helen Sloan/Netflix © 2025

Wednesday Returns:

Season 2 Brings New Mysteries and Darker Turns Netflix’s Wednesday returns this summer with its highly anticipated second season, split into two parts. Episodes one to four premiere August 6, 2025 at 12:00 AM PDT, with episodes five to eight arriving on September 3, 2025 at 12:00 AM PDT. Jenna Ortega steps back into the role of Wednesday Addams, her razor-sharp wit and deadpan charm leading the way through a new year at Nevermore Academy. This season pushes Wednesday deeper into family drama, fragile friendships, and a bonechilling supernatural mystery that threatens to upend the eerie balance of her world.

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Returning creators and showrunners Alfred Gough and Miles Millar are once again joined by executive producer Tim Burton, who directs key episodes alongside Paco Cabezas and Angela Robinson. The result is a season rich in gothic visuals, unsettling humor, and the signature dark tone that made the first season a global hit.

Season two promises eight episodes that weave together mystery, romance, and macabre humor, expanding the world of Nevermore Academy and its strange inhabitants. With heightened stakes and new secrets to uncover, Wednesday’s journey is set to be as captivating as it is chilling.

The ensemble cast brings familiar faces and intriguing newcomers. Catherine ZetaJones and Luis Guzmán return as Morticia and Gomez Addams, with Emma Myers, Joy Sunday, Hunter Doohan, and Isaac Ordonez reprising their roles. New additions include Steve Buscemi, Billie Piper, Joanna Lumley, and Thandiwe Newton, while Part Two introduces Lady Gaga and Frances O’Connor in highly anticipated guest appearances.

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in epis ay Addams sd e n d e W s a na Ortega

202 n/Netflix © io ss e H n a th r. Jona ednesday. C W f o 3 0 2 e d o

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Imges courtesy of Apple TV+

ACAPULCO

Acapulco Season 4 Sets Sun‑Soaked Farewell for Las Colinas Resort Apple TV+ is bringing the sun-soaked story of Las Colinas Resort to a close with the highly anticipated fourth and final season of Acapulco. Set to premiere on July 23, 2025, the series will debut with two episodes followed by weekly releases, giving fans one last stay at the resort where dreams, drama, and ambition collide. In the present day, Máximo Gallardo Ramos, played by Eugenio Derbez, is determined to restore Las Colinas to its former glory ahead of its grand reopening. Flashbacks transport viewers to 1986, where a younger Máximo, portrayed by Enrique Arrizon, faces one of his biggest challenges yet. When a rival hotel takes the coveted top spot on Acapulco’s “Best Hotels” list, he will stop at nothing to reclaim the title and secure the future of the resort he loves.

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Since its debut in 2021, Acapulco has captivated audiences with its bilingual storytelling, vibrant 1980s aesthetic, and heartfelt humor. The show has balanced lighthearted comedy with rich cultural layers, exploring themes of ambition, loyalty, and family. Seasons one through three earned critical acclaim for their nostalgic charm and uplifting energy, making Acapulco one of Apple TV+’s most beloved originals. Season four brings back the ensemble cast that fans have come to adore. Fernando Carsa returns as Memo, Camila Perez as Julia, Chord Overstreet as Chad, and Vanessa Bauche as Nora. Jessica Collins, Rafael Cebrián, and Regina Reynoso reprise their roles, while Jaime Camil and Damián Alcázar add depth to the story. Newcomers Keyla Monterroso Mejia and Omar Chaparro join the final chapter, infusing fresh intrigue into the world of Las Colinas.

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This season promises more than just a tropical escape. It dives into Máximo’s past choices and how they shaped his present, offering a poignant exploration of success, sacrifice, and second chances. With its signature blend of humor, heart, and a splash of 80s nostalgia, Acapulco delivers a final season that feels both celebratory and deeply moving. As Las Colinas prepares for its grand reopening, fans will be saying goodbye to a series that made them laugh, dream, and long for endless summers under the Mexican sun.

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The Raven’s Kiss A brooding, elegant Mocktail that reflects Wednesday’s gothic charm with a hint of mischief. Ingredients: 2 oz blackcurrant juice 0.5 oz fresh lime juice Sparkling water to top Garnish: black cherry or lime twist Shake blackcurrant juice and lime juice with ice. Strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass. Top with sparkling water. Garnish with a black cherry or a twist of lime.

Mocktail illustrations by Stéphane Marquet

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The Colinas Glow

A vibrant, tropical mocktail that evokes 1980s Acapulco

Ingredients: 2 oz pineapple juice 1 oz fresh lime juice 0.5 oz agave syrup Sparkling water to top Garnish: pineapple wedge and mint sprig Shake pineapple juice, lime juice, and agave syrup with ice. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Top with sparkling water. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and a sprig of mint.

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Las Colinas Dreams A digital Fashion Tale inpsired by "Acalpulco" by Stéphane Marquet

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Style

FULOP

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PABLO VELASCO

ISSN 2769-5077

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Top & Shorts: SAMUEL GARTNER

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Beneath the wild sun

BUDAVÁRI FÜLÖP @iamfulop @wilhelminamodels Photographed by PABLO VELASCO @pabloovelascoo Styling ALEKSANDAR TOMOVIC @alekandsteph @maisonprivéepr_la

Top & Pants: MAISON AUDMI Shirt: D.RT Tie: HIROMI ASAI

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Top & Pants: MAISON AUDMI Shirt: D.RT Tie: HIROMI ASAI

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Top & Shorts: SAMUEL GARTNER

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Top: XIVI Pants: MAISON AUDMI Gloves: WEISHENG PARIS

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Top & Pants: MAISON AUDMI Shirt: D.RT Tie: HIROMI ASAI

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Top: XIVI Pants: MAISON AUDMI Gloves: WEISHENG PARIS

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Top & Pants: MAISON AUDMI Shirt: D.RT Tie: HIROMI ASAI

Blouse: MAISON AUDMI Pants: HIROMI ASAI Hat: TOUKITSOU

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Grayson

New Faces

Model GRAYSON SHELTON @dtmodegmt photographed + Glam by DIEGO LAREZ @diegolarez using @randco @inglot_cosmetics Photography Assistant SCOT @m1lozzz Location MAISON PRIVÉE @maisonpriveepr_la

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New Faces

Joey

Model JOEY GORE @joeygore1 @dtmodegmt photographed + Grooming by DIEGO LAREZ @diegolarez using @randco @inglot_cosmetics Location MAISON PRIVÉE @maisonpriveepr_la

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Rayan Ricci

RAYAN RICCI @RayanRicciFR Photography + Grooming DIEGO LAREZ @diegolaarez using R+CO @randco Creative Direction ALEK @alekandsteph Photography Assistant SCOT @m1lozzz Production MAISON PRIVÉE X BELLO MEDIA GROUP @maisonpriveepr_la @bellomediagroup

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Grounded

PUBLISHER @BELLOmediaGroup 8285 Sunset Blvd. Suite #14 / West Hollywood, CA 90046 IMAGE NATION STUDIO L.L.C. California, USA editorial@bellomag.com BELLO | VULKAN | TILTED ADVERTISING Collaborations | Advertorials advertising@bellomag.com ALEKSANDAR TOMOVIC (editor in chief) alek@bellomag.com STEPHANE MARQUET (creative director + layout) steph@bellomag.com ED SOLORZANO (Entertainment Editor) ed@bellomag.com ALEXANDRA TUIL (contributing editor) alexandra@bellomag.com PRINT ON DEMAND (available around the world) Order here: www.bellomag.com/print SUBMISSIONS www.kavyar.com/bello-magazine WEBSITE www.bellomag.com + Digitaly Distributed On www.issuu.com/outnext CONTENT DISCLAIMER We would like to take a moment to emphasize that the content presented in this magazine does not necessarily reflect the opinions or viewpoints of the editorial team or the publication as a whole. Our aim is to provide a platform for diverse perspectives and voices, recognizing that opinions may vary widely on the topics covered. Furthermore, while we strive to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information presented, we cannot guarantee that all content is entirely free from errors or inaccuracies. We encourage our readers to critically engage with the material and to verify information independently when necessary. Thank you for your continued support and understanding . Copyrights 2025 - All Rights Reserved BELLO Media Group / Image Nation Studio L.L.C. Submited Content Disclamer: We can not take responsability for any content that was provided to us and will honor "notice-and-takedown" request if there is an error, or copyrights issue (on our digital plaforms).

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ALEX SAMPSON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEN ROSENSTEIN

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