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‘Ted Lasso’ Is Back — And Fans Can Watch a New Episode With the Cast at New Exclusive NYC Event

Thu, 06/25/2026 - 3:23pm

After three long years away from AFC Richmond, Ted Lasso fans are finally getting a chance to reunite with their favorite coach, and they can do it alongside the cast themselves.

The Paley Center for Media has announced a special PaleyLive event celebrating the highly anticipated return of Apple TV+'s Emmy Award-winning comedy. Titled "Ted Lasso Returns! An Exclusive Evening with the Cast of Season 4," the one-night-only event will take place on Thursday, Aug. 6th at 8 p.m. ET at The Paley Museum in Midtown Manhattan.

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The event will take place just one day after the new season premieres on Apple TV+ and offers fans the opportunity to be among the first to see what's next for Ted and the Richmond crew. Attendees will enjoy a screening of the Season 4 premiere episode, along with an exclusive first look at Episode 2. Following the screenings, members of the cast and creative team will participate in a conversation about the new season and the show's long-awaited return.

"It has been three years since fans last cheered on Ted Lasso and the beloved AFC Richmond squad, and we are thrilled to welcome them back to the pitch for this can't-miss event at The Paley Museum," said Maureen J. Reidy, President and CEO of The Paley Center for Media, in a statement. "The evening promises to be filled with laughter and plenty of Richmond spirit."

Related: ‘Ted Lasso’ Season 4 Release Date Finally Announced — And the First Trailer Says a Lot

Season 4 finds Ted Lasso (Jason Sudeikis) back in Richmond and facing his biggest challenge yet: Coaching a second-division women's football team. According to the official synopsis from Apple, Ted and his players will spend the season learning to take chances and embrace the unknown.

The event also arrives during a milestone year for The Paley Museum, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary following the reopening of its newly renovated theaters and public spaces.

Tickets are now on sale to all Paley President’s Circle, Patron Circle, and Partner Members; to Paley Individual, Family, and Supporting Members on Wednesday, July 1 at noon ET; and to the general public on Friday, July 17 at noon ET.

For Ted Lasso fans eager to get back on the field, this may be the ultimate way to kick off a new season.

Related: 'Ted Lasso' Star Discusses Career Trajectory: 'The Worst Thing Ended Up Being the Best Thing' (Exclusive)

Rolling Stones' New Single Gets Steamy Music Video With These Red-Hot Stars

Thu, 06/25/2026 - 3:17pm

The Rolling Stones are sounding as "youthful" in their latest release, leading up to yet another album drop after all these decades.

On Thursday, June 25, the renowned rock group debuted its new single “Jealous Lover” alongside a steamy and expertly choreographed music video directed by Chris Barrett & Luke Taylor (who have also collaborated with Radiohead and Jack White) and starring Anya Taylor-Joy and Charles Melton.

The single is the latest to be unveiled from their forthcoming studio album Foreign Tongues, due for release on July 10 via Capitol Records.

The video, which is teased in the promotional image below, is available to watch right now exclusively on Amazon Music here.

(Amazon Music)

As anticipation for the album continues to build, “Jealous Lover” is yet another example of the band's ability to move between musical styles. Following the upbeat pop-rock energy of previous single “In the Stars,” the new track embraces a soulful R&B groove, anchored by a captivating falsetto lead vocal from the one and only Mick Jagger.

For those who don't have immediate access to Amazon Music, take a listen to "Jealous Lover" below, thanks to today's audio-only YouTube upload:

Fans have already flooded the post's comments section with their love and support for the Stones' latest single. "They sound with such youthful energy that it's amazing ❤," wrote one YouTube user, while another person commented, "Mick singing in hi pitched voice at his age .. amazing 👏."

The track is powered by expressive guitar work from Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood, while the rhythm section of Darryl Jones on bass and Steve Jordan on drums and percussion provides a deep and assured groove. Plus, longtime friend and collaborator Steve Winwood adds distinctive Rhodes and organ textures. Additional instrumentation from producer Andrew Watt and keyboardist Matt Clifford further enhances the song's warm, soulful sound.

“Jealous Lover” comes with another track from Foreign Tongues, titled “Divine Intervention,” which is one of two tracks from the album to feature The Cure frontman Robert Smith.

Martha Stewart’s 'Lightweight' Skechers Slip-in Wedges Are a 'Great Summer Sandal,' Now 25% Off for Amazon Prime Day

Thu, 06/25/2026 - 3:15pm

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Few people have built a lifestyle empire quite like Martha Stewart. From hosting and gardening to home decor and entertaining, her name has become synonymous with fabulous taste. That influence extends to fashion, too, which is why her collaboration with Skechers feels like such a natural pairing. The Skechers Martha Stewart Parallel Lite Bliss Slip-Ins, in particular, combine the brand’s comfort-first approach with the easy, polished style Martha is known for.

And thanks to Amazon's Prime Day event, they're now a lot cheaper to add to your wardrobe. These sandals are currently marked down 25%, bringing the original $80 price tag down to $60. With a hands-free design and versatile look that works for everything from vacation sightseeing and weekend errands to backyard entertaining, they fit seamlessly into your summer plans.

Skechers Martha Stewart Parallel Lite Bliss Slip-Ins, From $60 (was $80) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

Dubbed as a “great summer sandal” that’s “lightweight" and “beyond comfortable,” the upper of this shoe is crafted from a textured shimmer knit that wraps across the foot in one continuous panel, creating an almost sock-like appearance. The knit itself features an intricate, raised weave pattern that adds depth and dimension throughout the surface, giving the sandal a rich, tactile look. Open cutouts at the sides keep the coverage airy and breathable, which is especially important in warm weather. Adding a touch of polish, a faux pearl-embellished O-ring sits at the side, introducing subtle jewelry-inspired detailing.

Instead of a smooth platform, the 2.25-inch heel features finely etched horizontal ridges that wrap around the entire midsole, creating a layered, architectural effect. Those sculpted lines help break up the volume of the wedge, making it appear lighter and more refined than a traditional solid heel. The contoured memory foam footbed cushions the foot, helping distribute pressure more evenly throughout the day while providing a soft, supportive feel with every step. 

A flexible traction outsole adds grip and stability, making the sandal feel secure on a variety of surfaces. The hands-free, slip-on-and-off construction is designed for easy step-in wear, eliminating the need to bend down and fuss with adjustments, while the built-in heel pillow hugs the back of the foot to help keep it comfortably in place and reduce slipping as you walk.

These sandals are available in sizes 5 through 11, including half sizes, making it easy to find a comfortable fit. They also come in three color options, giving you a few versatile choices depending on what pairs best with your wardrobe. At the time of writing, the sage green and navy blue versions are the most affordable, both marked down to $60. 

Shoppers shared their thoughts on these “stylish” and “superb” sandals in the reviews section. One reviewer called them “the most comfortable wedges for walking,” sharing that they held up well through hours of “sightseeing on vacation.”

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Related: Skechers’ ‘Supportive’ Slip-Ins Are 40% Off at Amazon Ahead of Prime Week and a ‘Terrific Summer Sandal’

If your summer wardrobe could use a comfortable sandal with a little Martha Stewart polish, the $60 Skechers Martha Stewart Parallel Lite Bliss Slip-Ins are worth a look. Shop them now while they’re 25% off during the final days of Amazon's Prime Day event!

'Spy Kids' Stars Reunite 25 Years Later—and Say They’re ‘Brother and Sister Forever' (Exclusive)

Thu, 06/25/2026 - 3:11pm

Kids of the '90s and early '00s will immediately recognize Alexa PenaVega and Daryl Sabara as the iconic sibling duo from the 2001 hit movie Spy Kids, although they might be a bit shocked to realize that the beloved childhood classic was released a full 25 years ago.

Thankfully, no one's childhood dreams have to be shattered, as PenaVega and Sabara recently confirmed exclusively to Parade that they remain very close friends—in fact, they said, they remain family.

About their ongoing bond, Sabara shared, "We're family, you know? We're brother and sister forever, and the only person in my life who knows what I went through is her and vice versa."

PenaVega agreed, saying, "Yeah, not a lot of people understand what a special bond that we have, but even outside of that, the whole movie is based off of family and unity, so it's so cool that we are still such a family unit 25 years later."

"And now we both have our own families too, and to get our families together, we've done that before, which has been really fun and really special," Sabara added.

Regarding their families, Sabara and PenaVega shared that their kids have seen Spy Kids, with the exception of Sabara's youngest two, who are just three years old and five months old, respectively.

"I feel like they're just now getting into it," PenaVega said of her children. "My boys, I showed it to them when [they were] younger, and unfortunately they wanted Shark Boy and Lava Girl over Spy Kids, which, I was like, 'Cool. Thanks, guys.' But now they love Spy Kids."

Sabara explained, "I have a five-year-old, a three-year-old and then a five-month-old, so the three-year-old and the five-month-old, not yet, but my five-year-old has watched the first three and, yeah, he's a fan. He's kind of just in disbelief, like he's watching the screen and he's looking at me, and I'm with him. I'm like, 'Yeah, I don't know who that is either.' But, yeah, it's so fun to share with them."

Reflecting on the experience overall, Sabara said, "We're really lucky to be a part of those movies, and it's crazy that we're still talking about it 25 years later. Kind of just a testament to the movies of how, after all these years, they hold up."

PenaVega and Sabara also just worked together in collaboration with the Salvation Army to bring an incredible surprise to campers from underserved communities at a Salvation Army summer camp. The Spy Kids stars appeared together at the camp and participated in a range of spy-themed activities, including rock climbing and zip lining.

Alexa PenaVega and Daryl Sabara at a Salvation Army summer camp.

Salvation Army

About the experience, PenaVega shared, "I love Salvation Army. I have been volunteering with them and working with them for years and years and years. Even when I was little, we would do a lot of volunteer work with Salvation Army. So, to be an adult now and bring my children along, it's just been a really beautiful experience."

PenaVega continued, "Today, we actually get to be a part of one of their summer camp programs...They're helping people across the country, over half a million kids, at little or no cost to each child. And that only happens because of amazing donors, people volunteering their time. I always tell people a money donation is fantastic, but if you don't have the means, donate your time. Donate stuff that you have. There are so many different ways to give back."

Sabara responded in kind, saying, "I'm so thrilled. Alexa actually got me involved in this. And summer camp is so important...just for kids to have a place to go, find a community...getting in touch with nature. So, I'm just thrilled to be a part of it."

Will 'Big Brother 28' Have Returning Players? The Case For and Against

Thu, 06/25/2026 - 3:11pm

While the summer season officially started on June 21, for Big Brother fans, it will actually kick off in two weeks. That's when Season 28 of the iconic CBS reality show premieres, opening up the doors to the house (and subsequently closing them) for another group of houseguests to duke it out in the ultimate form of cabin fever in pursuit of $750,000. But could it be possible that this year's crop of contestants is full of familiar faces?

Now, to be frank (not Eudy), if you've been a longtime Big Brother fan, you know that rumors about returning houseguests, like a visit from OTEV or Zingbot, have become an annual occurrence. Every year, in May or June, gossip begins that alumni have been contacted, production has decided on an all-stars/captains/fans vs. favorites format, etc. And most years, the rumor mill is shut down when CBS announces the actual cast and theme. It seems this year, however, discussion of returnees is more prevalent than ants at the end of any given Big Brother season. And, while Parade has no intel as to whether or not Season 28 will feature an all-new group of houseguests, with nothing to do but wait until the big July 9 premiere, we figured it could be an opportunity to, much like eviction night, hear the pleas from both metaphoric nominees.

Here are our arguments as to whether Big Brother 28 will or won't be a returnee season. And, regardless of whether it's the case, be sure to tune into the 90-minute premiere on Thursday, July 9, and check out Parade's coverage all season long!


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Why Big Brother 28won't have returning players

Let's start with the less fun argument. The biggest piece of evidence in support of an all-new group of houseguests for Season 28 is that, with one exception, the "new era" of Big Brother has remained surprisingly free of returnees. Over the past five seasons of the show, among 82 houseguests, only one of them had played Big Brother before. Despite the show's consistent popularity, the producers and the casting team have been remarkably conservative about bringing people back, opting to create new fan-favorite players rather than bank on known entities.

The last time Big Brother had a season with more than one returnee was all the way back in 2020. And, to be honest, there's probably a good reason why. After years of consistent speculation, in the height of the pandemic, CBS announced its second-ever full all-star season. The cast was absolutely stacked on paper, combining old-school legends like Janelle Pierzina and Dani Briones, long-requested returns of people like Kevin Campbell and Keeha Smith, and recent standouts like Cody Calafiore, Tyler Crispen and Nicole Anthony. Unfortunately, the reality failed to live up to the high expectations set in the days leading up to the Big Brother 22 premiere.

What followed was one of the most straightforward seasons in the show's history. Nearly every competition was won by the majority alliance, which spent the first two months of the game cleanly picking off every outsider. Even among those who were dominating, the general mood among the houseguests was dour and depressing (completely understandable, given what the world was going through at the time). This may be a bit of fan fiction on our part, but we could see a world where, having seen the worst-case scenario of a returnee season play out, they would be cautious to go back to the stove again.

But perhaps the biggest smoking gun against a possible returnee season is simply the fact that we haven't heard anything about it yet! Season 22 revealed its all-star theme two weeks before the premiere (even though the always-next-level sleuthing on behalf of Big Brother fans was able to gather evidence to mount a case speculating as such). We've just reached that point, and there hasn't been any form of announcement from CBS about returning players, not even any vague clues posted on the show's social media. I know we've been told to "expect the unexpected," but wouldn't Big Brother want to hype up some returning veterans only a handful of days before its premiere?

Related: Frankie Grande Reveals Whether He’d Ever Return to ‘Big Brother’ (Exclusive)

Why Big Brother 28will have returning players Rachel Reilly on 'Big Brother 27'

Courtesy of CBS

Sure, has information about returning players come out around this time in the past? Absolutely. But for evidence to the contrary, we can look no further than the only returnee we've had in the past five years: Rachel Reilly. Last year, CBS did not reveal there would be a returning player until the premiere itself, simply teasing a seventeenth "mystery houseguest" along with some enigmatic clues. And even that information wasn't revealed until the cast of newbies was announced, which only happened two days before the Season 27 premiere. Given the fact that neither the house theme nor the houseguests are known yet, we have recent precedent to show that returning players could still be announced.

Reilly's presence in the house last year also showcases that Big Brother 28 can certainly feature some returnees, rather than all. Out of the 28 seasons so far (27 on TV and the online-only Over the Top), six of them had newbies playing with at least one veteran. Even if recent seasons have shied away from returning players, there's still plenty of examples in years past where producers have filled the house with one, four, or even six of them at a time. And, as odd as bringing Reilly back by herself may have seemed on paper, it was absolute knockout casting, showcasing how bringing in "reality royalty" can help stir up the gameplay and the drama among a new crop of characters.

It should also be mentioned that while only one alum actually played Big Brother last summer, there were many who appeared on the show proper. Over the course of the season, we got cameos from Tyler, Kaycee Clark, Angela Murray, Frankie Grande, Eric Stein and Jessie Godderz. 2025 also saw the debut of Big Brother: Unlocked, a companion series hosted by winners Taylor Hale and Derrick Levasseur that also featured appearances from Chelsie Baham, Jag Bains, Britney Haynes and Nicole Franzel. Though this may have simply been CBS pulling out all the stops in honor of the show's 25th anniversary, it could also be an indicator that the network is eager to dive back into the pool of previous players. Heck, technically speaking, there was a Big Brother all-star season after 2020, in the form of the holiday spinoff Reindeer Games!

Related: ‘Big Brother’ Winner and ‘Bachelorette’ Alum Reveal They’re Dating

For our final piece of evidence, we have to turn to the vague online activity that always factors into the preseason speculation. As many fans have pointed out, the first press release for Big Brother 28 made no mention of a group of "all-new houseguests" moving in, with the omission of the phrase perhaps indicating they may not be entirely fresh faces. When asked last year by Entertainment Weekly if future seasons would mix veterans and newbies more, executive producer Alison Grodner replied, "You never know. I mean, it worked out nicely, but we don't necessarily like to repeat ourselves all the time either. I think it was nice that there was a break and that we had complete newbie casts playing. And so it just depends."

There's also the fact that there's been a rather coincidental amount of suspicious activity from a number of previous houseguests. Over the past couple of weeks, we've seen alums turn off their Cameos and go private on social media. Sure, legends like Danielle Reyes and Janelle have explained they've done so simply for work, not because of any possible return to the house. But wouldn't that be something a returnee would be saying as an excuse?! Could Ainsley be seeking her revenge and creating those deepfake posts and videos? Where are the pictures from these supposed trips to Greece?! If Dan's Funeral taught us anything, it's not to count any possibility out!

Related: 'Big Brother 28' Announces Premiere Date, Brings Back 'Unlocked' for Biggest Season Ever

The Monkees' Last Surviving Member Returns With Surprise New Single

Thu, 06/25/2026 - 3:11pm

Micky Dolenz, the last surviving member of the beloved pop-rock band the Monkees, just surprised his fans with a very special new release. Dolenz announced on social media that he would be coming out with a cover of Paul Westerberg's song "Terri" as the lead single on an upcoming vinyl EP.

He shared a clip of himself performing the track on Instagram, writing in the caption, "Micky Dolenz Paul Westerberg 'Terri' Tomorrow!"

View this post on Instagram

It's safe to say that fans of Dolenz were hyped up about the new song, with one commenting, "New music!!!!! Ahhhhhhhh yippee."

Other excited responses included, "Mickey AND Paul?!!?!," "Get it Micky!" and "What a great song." A few more fans wrote about how they would be seeing Dolenz in concert soon.

While the song will drop on streaming platforms this week, fans can get a physical copy of "Terri" in the form of a limited-edition ruby red vinyl release. The upcoming EP is called Timeless, and along with "Terri," the track list includes "Any Way You Want Me To," "Something Happened," "Waiting For Day," "Where Do The Tears Come From," and "In The Center Of My Heart (There Is A Force Commonly Known As Love)."

Friday Music describes the release as "a treasure trove of modern rock and pop songs that truly represents the good vibes and craftsmanship that his fans have come to know and love for his many years in the music business."

Related: 1981 Rock Classic, Whose Singer Hadn’t Finished the Lyrics When It Was Recorded, Became One of Rock’s Most Iconic Debuts

Along with Westerberg of the Replacements, the album also includes collaborations with Andy Partridge of XTC, Shelby Lynne, Vicki Peterson of the Bangles, Adam Schlesinger of Fountains of Wayne, and Jonny Polonsky. The EP is currently open for pre-order, with the listed release date as Sept. 4, 2026.

Dolenz was one of the two lead vocalists and the drummer of the hit band the Monkees, which was founded in the mid-1960s. The rest of the lineup included Davy Jones, Michael Nesmith, and Peter Tork, although they have all died in the past 15 years.

Related: ’80s Rock Band Reunites After 40 Years for First Tour Since Breakup

Mila Kunis Shares the Ultimate Romantic Advantage in Her Marriage to Ashton Kutcher

Thu, 06/25/2026 - 3:09pm

When Mila Kunis, 42, says that she's known her husband, Ashton Kutcher, 48, for most of her life, she's not exaggerating. The two first met on the set of That '70s Show when she was just 14 years old. In a 2017 appearance on The Howard Stern Show, Kutcher even admitted that their first kiss on the show was anything but romantic.

"It was really weird," he said. "I was like, 'Isn't this illegal?' It was really awkward. She was 14! She was like my little sister."

Living Out Their On-Screen Rom-Coms

The two have both described their relationship as sibling-like while they were on the show, and it was only years later that things became romantic. However, when they reconnected in 2012, Kutcher had just recently separated from Demi Moore after six years of marriage, and Kunis was still getting used to being on her own after an 8-year relationship with Macauley Culkin.

“It was funny because I’d just done this movie called No Strings Attached and she just did a movie called Friends with Benefits and we legitimately lived out our movies, which was virtually the same movie,” he said.

In an extended interview on The Drew Barrymore Show, Kunis explained that the fact that they'd known each other through all their different life stages has given them a major advantage.

The Ultimate Advantage: No Baggage, No Secrets

"He knew me through all of them. And I knew him through all of it," she said. "Through like, the good, the bad, the ugly, you know, and vice versa. So when we reconnected, there was no getting to know each other."

While there was still much to "discover" about each other, many of the small details about your family, past relationships, and experiences were already known to each other.

"There was no, 'But let me tell you all these hidden secrets, let me tell you all about my baggage,' we all knew," the Black Swan star continued.

"Our fundamentals, our foundation, everything is built on respect because we've known each other since I was 14 and he was 19," she added.

Kunis and Kutcher’s journey proves that the best love stories often take a lifetime to write. By growing up together long before coming together, they bypassed the usual relationship guessing games. Having already seen each other’s good, bad, and ugly, they turned a friendship into a real-life romance built on a rare foundation of total transparency, deep mutual respect, and decades of history.

Mitchel Musso Reveals the Reason He Refused to Join Miley Cyrus for the 'Hannah Montana' Reunion

Thu, 06/25/2026 - 3:06pm

Mitchel Musso is speaking out about why he declined an offer to join MileyCyrus for the Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special

The actor claimed the special “wasn’t the right thing” in his debut podcast interview on The Joe Vulpis Podcast, which was published June 24. 

Musso portrayed Oliver Oken on the 2006 Disney Channel sitcom. He shared his disappointment with how the beloved series celebrated its 20-year anniversary.  

“Do an episode. Do the show. The set’s still there,” Musso said. 

The Disney+ special took place on a replica of the original set. It was hosted by Alex Cooper and featured interviews between MileyCyrus and special guests, like her co-star and dad, Billy Ray Cyrus

“The kid in me was banking on it, like ‘I can’t wait for us to all be on set again,'” he shared. “And it just didn’t work out that way.”

Musso was also disappointed in the way they reached out to him about the special. When asked if he was offered a part in it, he said, “Of course they asked me. But, like I said, it wasn’t presented correctly. … It’s too long of a wait to do it in a way that isn’t even close to, in my opinion, correct.”

The actor left Hollywood 10 years ago but would’ve gladly reprised her role as Oliver. 

“They just did it differently, and it is what it is,” Musso said. “It wasn’t the right thing. And I was busy doing something that was more important. But it would have been way more important if it would have just been an episode, or a movie. Of course that would have been more important. That would have been everything. I would have dropped everything — eat, breathe, sleep it.” 

His on-screen girlfriend, EmilyOsment, who played Lilly Truscott, was also absent from the telecast and the premiere event. She did share a video on Instagram celebrating the Hannah Montana anniversary, and said she couldn't attend due to scheduling conflicts.  

Several of the Hannah Montana supporting cast members attend the premiere, such as JasonEarles (Jackson Stewart) and MoisésArias (Rico Suave). 

Who Won ‘Jeopardy’ Today? (June 25, 2026) Plus, the Final Jeopardy Answer

Thu, 06/25/2026 - 3:00pm

There are three things guaranteed in the world today: Death, taxes, and Jeopardy! being on. Believe it or not, the iconic game show has been on the air for over 60 years (though the modern incarnation we know and love technically debuted in 1984). Under the watchful eye of Ken Jennings (who himself was a record-breaking champion), Jeopardy! puts three people's trivia skills and reflexes to the ultimate test. And so many of the greats to grace those podiums started by simply watching the show as it aired on weekdays, as millions have done for over half a century.

Here's a spoiler-filled recap of who won Jeopardy! today, plus the answer to Final Jeopardy.

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Who won Jeopardy today?Adam Remsen

Adam Remsen won his 10th consecutive game, earning $36,001 and pushing his 10-day running total to $228,806

Who are the Jeopardy contestants today?Derek Lombardi

Derek Lombardi is an urban planner from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Kate Raven

Kate Raven is an incoming law student from Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Adam Remsen

Adam Remsen is an attorney and theater producer from Memphis, Tennessee.

Related: Sam Heughan Surprises ‘Jeopardy!’ Fans With an ‘Outlander’ Category — Can You Answer the Clues?

What was Final Jeopardy today?

Final Jeopardy today was in the category "PARTNERSHIPS"

The clue: "After measuring the transit of Venus in 1761, this pair of astronomers was recommended by the Royal Society for a job in America."

The answer: "Who are (Charles) Mason & (Jeremiah) Dixon?"

Remsen’s score at the end of DJ was $20,800, in the lead against Lombardi and Raven’s $18,000 and $13,600, respectively.

In FJ, he was the only one to answer correctly, securing his 10th consecutive win, and with a wager of $15,201, he ended the game with a whopping $36,001. 

Raven wagered everything, ending the game with $0, while Lombardi wagered $7,500, dropping down to a second-place total of $10,500.

Remsen will be back on Friday for attempt number 11.

Did you get the answer? Sound off in the comments!

When is Jeopardy on next?

Jeopardy! will come back on Friday, June 26, with a new episode. Check your local listings to find out when to watch.

Where is Jeopardy streaming?

Jeopardy! is available on both Hulu and Peacock. Subscribers can enjoy watching new episodes the next day, as well as access a vault of many classic episodes to enjoy at a moment's notice.

Related: Ken Jennings Reveals If 'Celebrity Jeopardy!' Questions Are Easier

Country Star Reveals She Almost Quit ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Over ‘Rude’ Behavior: ‘That Show Wrecked Me’

Thu, 06/25/2026 - 2:55pm

When Jana Kramer competed on Season 23 of Dancing with the Stars back in 2016, viewers only saw what played out on television, but little did they know that behind the scenes, the country star and actress was struggling to keep on in the competition. 

Although the “I Got the Boy” singer ultimately made it into the finals, where she placed fourth with dance partner and professional Gleb Savchenko, she says she considered quitting the competition altogether before the grand finalé revealing “that show wrecked me.” 

"I struggled with the Russian..." Kramer admitted about her dance partner during a recent candid conversation on her Whine Down podcast, which included guest and BachelorNation’s Hannah Brown, who also competed on DTWS during Season 28 and won the coveted Mirror Ball trophy alongside dance pro Alan Bersten

Kramer’s words insinuated that Savchenko’s tough approach to teaching dance steps and routines as a veteran of the show, who lived to perform and compete on the program, was, at times, too much for her to handle. 

"I was like, 'Do not speak to me that way.' Period," Kramer said, reflecting on a moment she remembered during her run on DWTS. "They didn't show this on the show, but I was like, 'I'm done, I quit... he's being rude, and I'm not having it.'

She added, "At that point, you know, you could push me so far. I'm like, 'We're done here.'"

Although she struggled with Savchenko’s training methods and instruction, Kramer added that she knew her seasoned pro wasn’t “trying to be mean,” but rather was motivated “to win.” 

And while Brown agreed with Kramer’s feelings, she pointed out that their pro-dancer partners — Savchenko and Bersten — grew up with the discipline of dancers who made the sport a lifestyle. 

"You have to realize that's how they were talked to," Brown explained. "That's how they were coached, and so that's all they know. And it's really hard when you're not used to that, and you're not a professional dancer, and this is not your career ...It definitely caused a lot of conflicts, and I feel like I had so many tantrums. But it was a tantrum from feeling so hurt and not respected in some moments, like, 'I'm really trying my best. I've never done this before.'"

"You're having to learn like two to sometimes three dances a week to perform it for millions of people, and they don't want to look bad, and they don't want you to look bad, and so a lot can come out right," Brown added. 

Season 35 of Dancing with the Stars is scheduled to premiere in the fall of 2026.

Related: Country Star Hospitalized After Suffering Gruesome Accident on Golf Course, Misses Concert: ‘Just Glad I’m Here'

Europe's Notorious 'Highway to Hel' Bus Is Back — and You Can Ride It This Summer

Thu, 06/25/2026 - 2:53pm

One of Europe's most famous bus routes is making an unlikely comeback.

After disappearing three years ago, Poland's infamous Route 666 to the seaside town of Hel has officially returned for the 2026 summer season — this time operated by FlixBus. Nicknamed the "Highway to Hel," the route has long attracted curious travelers thanks to the tongue-in-cheek combination of its route number and destination, even though the town's name has nothing to do with the biblical underworld.

The seasonal service officially returned at the end of May, with FlixBus announcing the revival on May 30, 2026.

The original Route 666 became an internet sensation for years, carrying passengers between towns on Poland's Baltic coast. That all changed in 2023, however, following years of complaints from some Christian groups. After all, Poland is a predominantly Roman Catholic nation, and the Church tends to hold a lot of weight.

Therefore, local operator PKS Gdynia renumbered the route from 666 to 669 because of its association with the biblical "number of the beast." But the decision disappointed many locals and visitors, who saw the route as an unexpected tourism draw.

View this post on Instagram The "Highway to Hel" is back

Now, FlixBus has resurrected the legendary number, but with a twist. Rather than restoring the original local route, the company has created a brand-new long-distance service connecting Kraków with Hel, stopping in Warsaw and several popular destinations along the Hel Peninsula. The roughly 13-hour journey operates daily during the summer tourism season, offering travelers a direct route from southern Poland to one of the country's best beach destinations.

FlixBus executives have openly acknowledged that choosing Route 666 was intentional.

FlixBus spokesperson Aleksander Kalenik told the Polish news service TVN24, according to BBC: "The number 666 was deliberately chosen as a marketing communication element, intended to increase the visibility of the connection on the popular holiday route to Hel."

Michał Leman, Managing Director of FlixBus in Eastern Europe, also said at a press conference: "It's better when a route explains by itself where it's going. In this case, there's really nothing more to say. Everyone will understand."

View this post on Instagram Why Hel is worth visiting

Despite its devilish nickname, Hel is anything but sinister. Located at the tip of Poland's 22-mile-long Hel Peninsula on the Baltic Sea, the coastal town is known for its sun-swathed sand beaches, cycling paths, seal sanctuary, and maritime history.

Linguists also point out that the town's name predates English and likely derives from ancient Germanic words referring to dunes or elevated coastal landscapes. For MANY travelers, however, the playful name is exactly what made the route famous.

Whether passengers book the journey for convenience or simply to say they rode "Route 666 to Hel," FlixBus appears to have tapped into one of travel's most enduring truths: oftentimes, it's about the journey, not the destination.

GTA 6 Faces Backlash Over Latest Pre-Order Announcement

Thu, 06/25/2026 - 2:45pm

After more than a decade of anticipation, Grand Theft Auto VI pre-orders officially went live on Thursday, June 25. But instead of celebrating, many players were left scratching their heads.

Shortly after pre-orders opened, confusion spread online as fans tried to figure out what exactly they were buying. Historically, when you pre-ordered a GTA game, you were reserving a physical copy of the game. 

“Pre-orders make no sense in the digital world. It’s not like they will run out like they did with physical copies,” one user pointed out on Instagram.

“What's the point of pre ordering you can buy it after the release duh.. you can only play after its release or pre ordered people should have the advantage of getting to play a day earlier before its release that makes sense tbh,” said another.

A third theorized, “They want money to finish the other half of the game.”

However, others defended the option to pre-order.

“Cause I have money now and may not in 5 months 😂,” a fan quipped.

“It feels better when the day comes, feels like you never paid,” another shared.

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As criticism mounted, Rockstar appeared to respond through its customer support team. According to a support email obtained by VICE, the company told customers that the current pre-order is "indeed just for a digital-only update" and that players "will be able to acquire a physical copy during the following months."

But that statement has only created more questions.

Rockstar didn't clarify whether that future "physical copy" means an actual disc-based version or simply another boxed edition containing a download code. It's also unclear whether the company plans to release it before or after the game's November 19 launch.

For now, players eager to jump into Grand Theft Auto VI can still secure their copy ahead of release—but keep an eye on Rockstar’s social media for more updates.

This No. 1 Ranked Carry-On is Just $84 Right Now for Prime Day

Thu, 06/25/2026 - 2:40pm

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When it comes to carry-on rankings lists, it's rare to see an under-$250 option featured. High-quality polycarbonate, smooth spinner wheels, refined leather accents and rigorous lab testing typically send retail prices skyrocketing into premium territory. But there is one iconic brand that consistently makes the cut across the entire industry, thanks to its ultra-lightweight durability combined with a surprisingly high-volume packing capacity.

It is none other than Samsonite's Freeform Hardside Expandable Carry-On.

Major travel authorities, including Travel + Leisure, Good Housekeeping and Forbes Vetted, all rank it as their absolute top-rated hardside value choice. Even better, it consistently holds the coveted number-one bestseller spot in the entire Carry-On Luggage category on Amazon. While its typical standard price point of $219.99 is already considered a fantastic bargain for heritage luggage, this Amazon Prime Day it has dropped by an unbelievable 66% to just $84. If there were ever a perfect moment to invest in a new forever carry-on without draining your flight fund, this is it.

Related:  CALPAK Just Dropped the Ultimate Summer Travel Collection

Samsonite's Freeform Hardside Expandable Carry-On Shop it on Amazon!

To break down the core specifications of this travel favorite, it weighs in at a mere 6.5 pounds out of the box, features exterior dimensions of 23 by 15 by 10 inches to meet domestic flight requirements, is crafted from 100% impact-resistant polypropylene, and comes backed by Samsonite's signature 10-year limited warranty.

As major airlines have increasingly started charging checked-bag fees upwards of $45 a flight, it's become incredibly popular to bring carry-ons all the way through the TSA checkpoint and stuff them into the overhead bins upon boarding. The downside to that strategy, however, is that it can present a whole host of exhausting physical challenges if your bags are heavy, overstuffed or if crowded planes make tossing them up and squeezing them into a tight space a nightmare. For travelers over 50, or anyone navigating mobility or physical challenges, wrestling a heavy bag down a narrow aisle can weigh down the start of a trip and even lead to a painful injury if you're hoisting it entirely on your own.

That is exactly why opting for the Samsonite's nimble 6.5-pound version is a smart move if you're looking for something ultra-lightweight that can still carry a significant amount of clothing. Because it's engineered from 100% impact-resistant polypropylene rather than traditional, heavy polycarbonate, this bag tends to run one to two full pounds lighter than most of its top-ranking luxury competitors. The highly flexible, impact-resistant shell is almost entirely scuff-proof, leaving long-term travel testers finding it completely scratch-free and gliding smoothly after six months of rigorous, back-to-back testing.

Related: 8 Amazon Prime Day Finds That Will Save Your Next Theme Park Trip From 100-Degree Heat

It also matches up perfectly to the high-end features of its priciest peers, coming fully equipped with integrated, TSA-approved combination locks, 360-degree double spinner wheels for an incredibly quiet ride and ultra-durable zippers that won't bust under pressure. Even better, a quick pull of the middle zipper provides an additional 1.5 inches of internal room when expanded. It's the absolute perfect feature for taking home extra vacation souvenirs, heavy layers or local gifts without the lingering anxiety that you’ll be forced to pay a sudden fee at the gate check counter.

With over 18,000 global ratings on Amazon, this suitcase has cemented itself as an undisputed fan-favorite for independent travelers. To see how it holds up in the real world, you can read firsthand reviews from verified buyers on the official Amazon product page. For instance, verified buyer "Jill S." notes that it "fit nicely in overhead compartments" and is "lightweight but still spacious." Another regular traveler, "Andrew," values how seamlessly it navigates tight transits, sharing that it "rolls nicely on all wheels... Weight isn't bad either and feels durable." Meanwhile, buyer "Jen True" raves about its sheer resilience after surviving multiple trips, liking it so much she bought a second one: "I can fit enough to survive a week, if living very simply. Both have been on multiple trips and still look new."

Just keep in mind that with an event as massive as Amazon Prime Day—which officially wraps up tomorrow night, Friday, June 26th—the algorithms are working in overdrive. Because Amazon relies heavily on dynamic pricing, the exact deal you see can fluctuate based on your personal browsing habits, ordering history, and even which third-party seller currently holds the "Buy Box" for your account.

In fact, while I managed to snag this exact suitcase in Navy this morning, the stock has been moving so fast that Black seems to be the only remaining color sitting at that rock-bottom $84 threshold. If you’re seeing a higher price tag on your screen, try opening a fresh incognito browser window or logging out of your account before adding it to your cart. Testing the waters anonymously is a proven trick to bypass the "loyalty tax" and trigger a fresh visitor rate, helping you hunt down the absolute best version of the deal before the clock runs out tomorrow.

At this absolute rock-bottom price point, it easily deserves a permanent spot in your luggage rotation, even if it's just to experience how effortless traveling light can truly feel.

Related: Baggallini Just Dropped a Sleek New Anti-Theft Travel Bag Collection That Proves Security Can Be Chic

1990 Oscar-Nominated Film Was Just Named the 'Most Universally Loved Movie Ever' Made

Thu, 06/25/2026 - 2:37pm

Many filmmakers can attest that a movie receiving overwhelming praise from both critics and audiences is nearly impossible. However, the publication Collider recently highlighted some films that managed to do just that by releasing a ranking of the "7 most universally loved movies ever."

The ranking, published in May 2026, featured hit films like Back to the Future from 1985, 1979's Alien, and the 1994 animated movie The Lion King. The publication named the 1990 Oscar-nominated film Goodfellas as the most beloved movie of all time. Collider pointed to Martin Scorsese's expert directing and the leads, Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Ray Liotta's memorable performances as to why the film has remained so impactful.

Goodfellas has a score of 93 percent on Rotten Tomatoes and 92 on Metacritic.

Martin Scorsese Shared His Inspiration Behind Making 'Goodfellas'

In an interview with the American Film Institute, Scorsese shared that the film, adapted from Nicholas Pileggi's nonfiction book, Wiseguy: Life in a Mafia Family, was inspired by "gangster films" from the 1930s and 1940s, specifically Scarface (1932) and Public Enemy (1931). Scorsese said that he appreciated how Tony "Scarface" Camonte, played by Paul Muni, was charismatic in the 1932 film. He explained that he was familiar with individuals with similar backgrounds during his childhood in New York City. He stated that he wanted the characters in Goodfellas to also have that charm and likability, despite their inexcusable actions.

"In Scarface, you have an interesting situation where these characters, who are really despicable, are presented in such a way that you like them. And that was the key," said the director during the interview.

In addition, Scorsese said that Goodfellas is a warning against "the danger of the exuberance [and] the danger of the excitement," which is something he witnessed firsthand.

"When you're young, you think you're going to live forever, and you think you're tough and you could take a few more shots in the head than somebody else could. And so, you think you're tougher than the other person," said Scorsese. "Well, eventually, if you don't use your brain, you know, you're not going to wind up anywhere. That's what happens with the Joe Pesci character. And I think the danger of the excitement of that lifestyle is what I grew up around. And I saw a lot of people disappear because of that."

1973 Rock Hit Inspired by a Popular Cocktail Became a Classic Without Ever Reaching No. 1

Thu, 06/25/2026 - 2:34pm

In 1973, the legendary rock band the Eagles released their second studio album, Desperado. While the album wasn't originally a success for the band, it featured a few of the group's most underrated tracks, including the folk-rock anthem "Tequila Sunrise."

The song was one of two singles on the album, the other being "Outlaw Man." Written by members Don Henley and Glenn Frey, it was one of their first songwriting collaborations. The title was inspired by the popular cocktail, tequila sunrise, and it perfectly fits the vibe of the track.

In the liner notes of the 2003 compilation album, The Very Best Of, the Eagles revealed some more of the backstory of "Tequila Sunrise." Henley wrote, "I believe that was a Glenn title. I think he was ambivalent about it because he thought that it was a bit too obvious or too much of a cliché because of the drink that was so popular then."

"I said, 'No – look at it from a different point of view. You've been drinking straight tequila all night and the sun is coming up!' It turned out to be a really great song," he went on.

Glenn might not have thought it at the time, but he came up with the most suitable title for the song, with the first lyrics reading, "It's another tequila sunrise/ Starin' slowly 'cross the sky/ I said goodbye."

Related: 1984 Power Ballad, Credited With a Baby Boom in One Country, Became a Rock Classic

Although it was the lead single on Desperado, "Tequila Sunrise" didn't do so great on the charts. It peaked at No. 64 on the Billboard Hot 100, while its highest chart position was 26 on the US Adult Contemporary Billboard chart. The album's other single, "Outlaw Man," did a little better, peaking at No. 59 on the Hot 100 chart.

Despite this early lack of success, the album and its singles earned appreciation from fans later on, as subsequent Eagles albums became major hits. Decades after "Tequila Sunrise" was first released, it remains a timeless classic and one of the Eagles' most beloved tracks.

Related: ’70s Rock Guitarist Announces First Regional Tour in 20 Years

Brad Pitt Reportedly Has 'No Plans' to Marry Girlfriend Ines de Ramon Despite Close Family Bond

Thu, 06/25/2026 - 2:34pm

Brad Pittand his girlfriend,Ines de Ramon, have been going strong for several years since making their relationship public in 2022. An insider exclusive reveals where the Fight Clubactor stands on possible marriage plans.

According to a report by Page Six, de Ramon has become "incredibly close" with Pitt's family over the course of their relationship. The source claims she was "welcomed with open arms from the beginning" and is adored by his family members. Whether Pitt is ready to get down on one knee and head down the aisle is another story.

“But Brad has no plans on getting married despite how close Ines has become with everyone," said the insider.

The insider adds that de Ramon and the actor's family regularly keep in touch and "genuinely enjoy spending time with her." They also add that the jewelry designer had never felt like "Brad's girlfriend," but more like a member of the family. De Ramon's bond also extends outside her and the actor's relationship, with her often texting and keeping in touch with others.

“She’s built real relationships with everyone. She spends time with Brad’s brother and sister, nieces and nephews, attends family gatherings, and has made an effort to get to know each of them individually," they said.

Related: Joe Manganiello Details 'Autoimmune-Related Illnesses' in Life-Threatening Health Battle

It appears that Pitt's family has come to naturally gravitate toward de Ramon and "include her in family plans and genuinely want her around." Neither de Ramon nor Pitt has commented on where they stand on marriage.

The F1 actor finalized his long-running divorce from Angelina Jolie in December 2024, after almost eight years of legal proceedings. Jolie had initially dissolved the marriage in September 2016. De Ramon was previously linked to Vampire Diaries star Paul Wesley and got married in 2019. They ended their marriage three years later in September 2022.

A few months later, de Ramone and Pitt were spotted together in Los Angeles, with reports claiming they had been seeing each other for several months. They continued to date quietly with their attendance at the 2024 Grand Prix, marking their highest-profile appearance.

Walmart Has ‘Clean’ and ‘Bright’ $79 Half-Carat Diamond Drop Earrings That Are Perfect for Gifting

Thu, 06/25/2026 - 2:30pm

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

If you've ever dreamed of adding a little sparkle to your jewelry box without emptying your wallet, Walmart's Summer Deals event just made it possible. The JeenMata Half-Carat Lab-Grown Diamond Leverback Drop Earrings — usually a dazzling $379 — are now just $79 online only.

That's a jaw-dropping deal for a pair of timeless, elegant earrings that will make you feel like a million bucks for a whole lot less.

JeenMata Half-Carat Lab-Grown Diamond Leverback Drop Earrings, From $79 (was $379) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

These beauties feature half a carat of round brilliant-cut lab-grown diamonds, set in a modern, secure bezel setting. Their brilliance is highlighted by a sleek 18-karat white gold-plated setting. 

The leverback closure isn't just pretty. It's practical, too, keeping your earrings comfortably in place whether you're dressing up for date night or adding a touch of shine to your favorite tee-and-jeans combo.

What makes these earrings extra special is their subtle sophistication. The drop silhouette adds a dash of movement and charm, while the minimalist, clean lines make them perfect for everyday wear or more glamorous occasions. Reviewers swooned about this crowd-pleaser.

"Looks classy on," One shopper said it “looks classy on,” adding that the bezel setting looks “clean and expensive." Another said the stones are “nice and bright.”

Lab-grown diamonds are an eco-friendly, ethical choice, offering the same breathtaking sparkle as traditional stones but with a lighter environmental footprint. The total 0.5-carat weight brings a delicate, lightweight shimmer to every outfit, making these earrings a signature piece you'll reach for again and again. If you're looking to make more of a statement, you can also snag the set in 0.75-carat, 1-carat, or 1.25-carat sizes!

Looking for a gift that wows without going over budget? These JeenMata earrings are perfect for anniversaries, birthdays, or just because. The white gold plating brings out the natural shine of the diamonds, and the refined leverback style ensures comfort for all-day (or all-night) wear. Each piece arrives brand new, ready to become a cherished keepsake or the star of your next selfie.

With Walmart’s Summer Deal Days pricing, this is the moment to treat yourself, or someone you love, to a little luxury. Whether you're a fan of minimalist jewelry, adore a bit of sparkle, or want to surprise a friend with something truly special, these JeenMata lab-grown diamond earrings are a fabulous find.

Shop More Deals

Related: Tupperware's Retro Pink and Purple Bowl Set Is the Prettiest Way to Store Your Leftovers

Just don't wait too long! At just $79, these genuine diamond earrings are sure to sell out fast. Add a touch of timeless glamour to your collection without breaking the bank, and let your style shine all summer long!

Chad Michael Murray Addresses the 2003 Mistake That Landed Him in the Middle of the Hilary Duff and Lindsay Lohan Feud (Exclusive)

Thu, 06/25/2026 - 2:21pm

It feels like yesterday, but it has been over two decades since I first sat down with a then-22-year-old Chad Michael Murray for a coveted feature in CosmoGIRL!. In late 2003, One Tree Hill was a mere nine episodes into its run, yet it was already an absolute juggernaut. Murray was sitting dead-center in the eye of the fandom storm, rapidly becoming one of Y2K’s definitive, bedroom-wall-dominating heartthrobs.

As a young editor back then, I remember being nervous to chat with him. Murray was lovely, if still visibly grappling with his meteoric rise to fame. He was already beloved for his scene-stealing roles in Gilmore Girls and Dawson’s Creek, as well as his cinematic breakout in Freaky Friday. But playing Lucas Scott—the brooding, sensitive, misunderstood basketball star on One Tree Hill—was a whole other echelon of stardom.

Flash forward to 2026.

Through Parade and my Substack, TheTeen Mag Time Machine,  Murray and I reunited over Zoom. To kick off the call, I hold up a physical copy of that original May 2004 issue of CosmoGIRL!.

"Oh my gosh," Murray gasps, leaning back from his screen with a look of genuine shock before a massive smile takes over. "A lifetime. I mean, that's 20 years ago. Two decades!"

Reconnecting with Murray today feels less like a jarring time jump and more like stepping into a beautifully preserved capsule. This summer, the actor has partnered with bubly sparkling water to celebrate the return of their fan-favorite Melted Ice Pop flavor. The campaign leans entirely into early-aughts sentimentality, complete with a limited-edition, old-school "Teen Beat" style bedroom poster of Murray.

Related: National Bomb Pop Day Is Here—These 10 Viral Products Take the Iconic Popsicle to the Next Level

"Everything is cyclical, and we're in a moment in time right now where people just want a little bit of peace. They want things on the television that you don't feel guilty for watching," Murray notes of the hyper-nostalgic energy currently overtaking the culture.

That early-aughts time machine is blasting on all cylinders for Murray right now. Thanks to streaming platforms, One Tree Hill is experiencing a massive, cross-generational rebirth. I can personally attest to its staying power; I’ve been actively rewatching the series with my 11-year-old daughter, Mila (whom Chad sweetly sent his love to at the end of our call).

“When you jump into something, you always hope and pray that you're going to make something that'll affect people for years to come,” he reflects. “If you would've told me 23 years ago that One Tree Hill would still be relevant today, I would've said, ‘I don't think so.’ But you know what? Here we are, and how cool is that?”

Related: Inside Chad Michael Murray’s Quiet Life as a Dad of 3 and the ‘Pact’ He Made With His Family (Exclusive)

During a recent appearance at a fan convention, Murray fully realized the staggering scale of the show's legacy. "There is a very large generation of Little Lucases out there. Little Lukes are everywhere. I met probably five Lukes and a couple of Peytons in one weekend alone. It’s unreal,” he grins. “But I love that bond. If you've watched every episode of the show, we're connected no matter what for the rest of our lives. When I'm old and gray, we can have these moments of ‘Remember that?’ and reflect on our lives from that show. It's special.”

Of course, being a Y2K icon meant enduring the highly specific, often bizarre styling requests of early-2000s teen media. Because his new bubly campaign includes a throwback poster and a former teen magazine editor, I needed to know if there was a particular photo shoot request that made him think, Are you kidding me? This is what you guys consider sexy?

Chad Michael Murray Reflects on 'Freaky Friday' Premiere: 'I Didn't Understand Any of the Real Weight of What Was Going On' (1:45)

"You know what? It was always the ones where you're lying back with your hand above your head and doing something that feels so unnatural!" Murray replies, erupting with laughter. "You're thinking, 'No, I want to be cool...' But ironically, it worked. Now I think it's funny. There's something to just not taking it seriously and leaning into it. It was purely a form of entertainment, and that’s what I loved about it.”

But being a young Hollywood superstar also meant navigating intense media scrutiny along with the occasional misstep. Murray’s eyes light up when the conversation shifts to A Cinderella Story and co-star Hilary Duff, who has openly admitted to having a massive crush on him during filming.

“I love Hil. A Cinderella Story was one of the most fun sets I've ever been on. It was like a high school field trip," he shares. "Hilary and I would talk about all sorts of things in life. We were hanging out every day. Life was good.”

Warner Bros. Pictures

However, mixing his film universes proved to be a chaotic learning curve when he invited Duff as his date to the 2003 premiere of Freaky Friday. Unbeknownst to him, it was during the height of Duff’s infamous feud with his Freaky Friday co-star Lindsay Lohan. (Duff later admitted she purposely accepted the invite to stir the pot with her "nemesis.") For Murray, the night was supposed to be a straightforward milestone; it was his very first premiere for a film he was actually in.

“I didn't understand any of the real weight of what was going on," Murray reflects honestly. "I don't remember the timeline of when I learned about A, B, C, and D, but I loved hanging with Hil. We were spending time together, but I remember everybody saying, ‘Hey guys, we need you to spend more time together.’ We had a big kissing scene, we had the big dance scene, so there were a ton of nerves and we wanted to be comfortable. So I was like, ‘Well, let's go to the premiere. Come on, we'll hang out!’’’

The realization of the pop-culture crossfire he had unassumingly walked into came just a little too late. "I found out right before we went inside that [bringing Hilary] was not the greatest idea," he chuckles. "But when you're 19, you have no foresight. I didn't think anything through. But everybody's lovely, I loved them, and I think they have squashed all that junk."

Today, the only critics Murray is looking to impress are his three kids, whom he shares with wife Sarah Roemer. Are they swooning over his Y2K heartthrob legacy? Not exactly.

"They rub me every time," he confesses. Except for one core family memory that proved his infamous Y2K roles still hold some major weight.

"I came home late from a shoot and my kids and my wife were all in bed smiling at the TV," Murray recalls fondly. "They were watching the moment where Austin Ames comes walking out and hits the little beep-beep on the G-Wagon. A Cinderella Story was the first thing of mine my older daughter ever saw, and she absolutely loved it."

Editor’s Note: Want to hear more about Lauren's Y2K adventures in teen magazines? Head over to The Teen Mag Time Machine, and check Parade.com next week for another excerpt!

Next, One Tree Hill Cast: Where Are They Now?

1972 Country Rock Classic, Originally Censored by the Government, Became a Generational Anthem

Thu, 06/25/2026 - 2:15pm

When John Denver released "Rocky Mountain High," it quickly became a hit that rose on the charts, but its title and lyrics led to scrutiny. The country rock track became a road trip and generational staple that was once stopped from radio play by the government.

"Rocky Mountain High" was released the day before Halloween in 1972 and became the title track of his album of the same name. It rose to the No. 9 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and took Denver a long nine months to fully complete. The track's success not only made it a road trip staple but would later be named one of the official state songs of Colorado.

According to Denver, the song's lyrics and inspiration came from his love for the state after having moved there three years prior. According to SongFacts, Denver was inspired after having witnessed Perseid meteor showers while up in Williams Lake. He was with friends and his then-wife Annie, working on their next album called Mother's Nature's Son.

"Imagine a moonless night in the Rockies in the dead of summer, and you have it. I had insisted to everybody that it was going to be a glorious display. Spectacular, in fact," he said.

He further details having stepped out of the lake while everyone else had retreated to their tents. Soon, the meteor show began and created a spectacular moment that sparked inspiration. While lying next to his then-wife, all he was "thinking about how in nature all things, large and small, were interwoven, when swoosh, a meteor went smoking by."

Anyone who knows Denver's love for the state would know what the track was about, but it soon became controversial thanks to the government. At the time, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission was legally allowed to censor music that it felt was promoting drug use. As a result, multiple radio stations cautiously banned the track.

Denver stated that the lyrics of "everybody's high" were meant as an innocent description of peace and resonating with nature. He would defend the track in front of the Senate in 1985 in a motion against the Parents Music Resource Center (PMRC) labeling albums.

“This was obviously done by people who had never seen or been to the Rocky Mountains,” Denver said in his defense. “And also had never experienced the elation, celebration of life or the joy in living that one feels when he observes something as wondrous as the Perseid meteor shower on a moonless, cloudless night, when there are so many stars that you have a shadow from the starlight, and you are out camping with your friends, your best friends, and introducing them to one of nature’s most spectacular light shows for the first time.”

Related: 1971 Folk Ballad, Inspired by a Painful Breakup, Became an Unlikely Holiday Classic

Brittany Cartwright Says Filming 'The Valley' Without Jax Taylor Felt 'Safer'

Thu, 06/25/2026 - 2:14pm

Brittany Cartwright is embracing a new chapter after the drama between her and Jax Taylor—and it made all the difference while filming the latest season of The Valley.

During an appearance on E!'s Hot Goss, the reality star reflected on what it was like filming the Bravo series without ex-husband Jax Taylor for the first time. Cartwright said the experience felt noticeably different after enduring what she described as a difficult previous season, and she also shared a personal realization that ultimately gave her the strength to leave the rocky relationship.

Related: Jelly Roll Files for Divorce From Bunnie XO

Brittany Cartwright Says Filming Without Jax Taylor Was a 'Breath of Fresh Air'

Looking back on filming Season 3, Cartwright admitted she immediately noticed a shift in her absence.

"I felt a lot calmer and safer and everything else," she said. "That was my first time ever, in all these years, not filming with him."

She went on to describe the previous season as "super hard and super dark," explaining that viewers only witnessed a fraction of what she was experiencing.

"You guys saw what happened to me on-camera, so imagine what was happening off-camera," Cartwright said. "I mean it was just a lot."

After years of sharing her relationship on television, Cartwright said filming without the constant tension surrounding her marriage felt like "a breath of fresh air," allowing her to focus on herself instead of the turmoil that had previously defined much of her storyline.

Related: Lala Kent Tearfully Reveals She’ll Miss a Family Milestone Due to ‘The Valley’ Reunion Filming

She Says Son Cruz Gave Her the Strength to Walk Away

Elsewhere in the interview, Cartwright shared the moment she realized she could no longer stay in the relationship, revealing that becoming a mother completely changed her perspective.

"A lot of people will stay whenever they have kids, but it did the opposite to me because I didn't want him to grow up in that environment," she said of son Cruz. "It just made me a lot stronger."

She explained that she eventually reached a point where she realized, "He can't watch this," adding that motherhood helped her take off the "rose-colored glasses" and finally move forward.

Now more than two years into life after the split, Cartwright says she's enjoying her independence while taking a much more cautious approach to dating. She admitted she recently recognized several "red flags" in someone she saw and has no interest in repeating past mistakes.

"I will never be in a toxic relationship like that," she said. "I've worked on myself so much."

The candid conversation also touched on her recent mommy makeover, which she said helped restore her confidence after pregnancy, but Cartwright made it clear that protecting her peace—and creating a healthier environment for Cruz—has become her top priority.

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