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Compared to more popular film genres, like action or romance, dark fantasy movies, known for their intense yet magical scenes, are on the niche side. For this reason, several dark fantasy movies don't have that strong of a fanbase, despite being an amazing watch.

In May 2026, the publicationCollider highlighted "five forgotten dark fantasy movies that are perfect from start to finish." Films like 1984's The Company of Wolves, The City of Lost Children from 1995, andBram Stoker's Dracula, released in 1993, were featured on the ranking.

According to Collider, the 1982 Jim Henson and Frank Oz film, The Dark Crystal, is the number one perfect but forgotten dark fantasy film.

The Dark Crystal has a score of 78 percent on Rotten Tomatoes and a Metacritic score of 66.

Jim Henson Discussed Making 'The Dark Crystal' in a 1984 Documentary

During an interview for the 1984 documentary Henson's Place, Henson, who died in 1990 at the age of 53, noted that he purposefully made The Dark Crystal darker than his usual projects involving puppets, like The Muppetmovies.

"Part of the desire was to create a whole new world. To start all over. And to design everything. And then, I think we had worked with a number of techniques that we didn't think were appropriate to the Muppets, and yet it would be fun to explore these things. And to work with the foam latex. And work with a more realistic kind of mobility of the face and that sort of thing," said the Dark Crystal co-director.

In the interview, Henson also shared one of the aspects he liked the most about The Dark Crystal, which may surprise some fans.

"One of my favorite things in the film is these bugs, you know, the little bugs that go running around in the tunnel floor," said the Fraggle Rock creator. "And those things, I always enjoy, and I watch the film, and I watch for these bugs. And in these great elaborate creations that we made, we spent months working on and have hundreds of thousands of hours of work on it, the bugs were these little things we bought in a toy store, for like a dollar."

One of 2026's most buzzed-about historical novels is heading straight into the heart of old Hollywood glamour with a tinge of darkness.

Bestselling author Natasha Lester is set to release her latest, The Chateau on Sunset, on June 2, 2026, and the novel is already being described as one not to miss thanks to its bold premise: a feminist reimagining of Jane Eyre set inside the infamous Chateau Marmont during Hollywood's Golden Age.

The novel follows Aria Jones, a grieving teenager sent to live with her aunt, fading movie star Devine Rey, at the Chateau Marmont after her parents' deaths. But, the glamorous hotel quickly reveals a far darker side, filled with addiction, exploitation and whispered secrets hidden behind closed doors.

Years later, Aria remains trapped within the Chateau's orbit until she becomes governess to the daughter of rock musician Theo Winchester, setting into motion a gothic story of love, danger and personal liberation.

Lester said the Chateau Marmont immediately struck her as the perfect setting for the story. "The hotel is the perfect gothic backdrop for the story, just like Rochester's Thornfield Hall with its secret rooms and dark hallways and mysterious inhabitants," she explained.

Lester became fascinated by the hotel's notorious history while researching the novel. Studio boss Harry Cohn once used the Chateau to discreetly hide stars like Glenn Ford and William Holden, before it later became a haven for legends including Humphrey Bogart, Errol Flynn and John Barrymore.

"A novelist can't help but be drawn to a place where trouble lies hidden in every corner," Lester said, adding that "almost every Hollywood star has lived there—and gotten into trouble there!”

The novel also draws heavily from Lester's lifelong connection to Jane Eyre. She first read the classic at age 10 and remained haunted by its themes into adulthood. Eventually, she began questioning whether Jane truly got the life she deserved.

Alongside its gothic mystery and glamorous setting, The Chateau on Sunset also explores the darker realities of Hollywood power structures, particularly for women trying to survive within them.

Layne Fargo, bestselling author of The Favorites, was quick to praise Lester's latest, describing the novel as “a clever, compelling mid-century Gothic that recasts the Chateau Marmont as the crumbling manor house and the predatory machine of Golden Age Hollywood as the gaslighting husband….a can't miss read for the madwoman in all of us.”

With advance praise already pouring in and its blend of literary inspiration, old Hollywood scandal and feminist reinvention, The Chateau on Sunset is shaping up to be one of 2026’s most anticipated historical fiction releases.

Related: Best-Selling Author’s Novel Ranked Among ‘Most Read Books This Year’ in the United States

Clotted cream wasn’t something I grew up with, and honestly, it wasn’t even on my radar until I was aboard a British Airways flight several years ago. Along with my fresh-from-the-cellophane breakfast scone and packet of marmalade came a small jar labeled Devon Clotted Cream. I remember spreading the cream onto the scone and immediately being surprised by how rich, creamy and genuinely delicious it was. Paired with the marmalade, it somehow made that boxed breakfast served over the Atlantic at 5:40 a.m. feel almost indulgent, which is no small feat.

What never crossed my mind until recently was that clotted cream might actually be something I could make at home.

If you’ve searched for a clotted cream recipe before, you already know the process feels a little unusual. There’s no whipping, no mixing and no real “technique” in the traditional sense. It’s simply time, low heat and patience. That’s part of what makes it so interesting. You’re not actively cooking so much as prepping and then sitting back and waiting for something to happen.

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The bigger question is whether it’s actually worth the effort. Clotted cream has a reputation for being rich and indulgent, but it's also a little mysterious if you haven’t had it before. Is it just another version of butter? Is it closer to whipped cream? Or is it something entirely different?

After making clotted cream at home for the first time and tasting my homemade creation, the answer is pretty clear. It’s its own thing—and once you try it, it might become a staple in your refrigerator.

What Is Clotted Cream, Exactly?

As British Cook (@britishcook5468) explains in a video on his YouTube channel, clotted cream is a thick, spreadable cream traditionally made in the southwest of England, especially in the counties of Devon and Cornwall.

It’s made by slowly heating heavy cream over a long period of time. This process allows the fat to rise to the surface and form a dense layer with a thin crust on top. That top layer is what becomes clotted cream. After cooling, it thickens and gets skimmed off and lightly stirred into a soft, spreadable consistency.

What makes clotted cream different from other dairy products is how little it’s handled. There’s no churning it like when making butter and no whipping it like when making cream. The process is slow and mostly hands-off, which gives it a texture that’s hard to replicate any other way.

What Does Clotted Cream Taste Like?

The flavor of clotted cream lands somewhere between butter and whipped cream, but it’s richer than both. It has a slightly nutty, almost toasted quality from the long, low heating process, along with a subtle sweetness that makes it feel more indulgent than plain cream.

The texture is just as important. It’s thick enough to hold its shape, but soft enough to spread easily. It doesn’t melt the way butter does, and it doesn’t feel airy like whipped cream. It sits right in the middle, which is why it works so well on baked goods.

What Is the Closest Thing to Clotted Cream in the U.S.?

There isn’t a perfect one-to-one substitute in the U.S., but a few options come close.

Mascarpone cheese is probably the closest in terms of richness and spreadability, though it lacks the slightly cooked flavor of clotted cream and it's less custardy in consistency. Crème fraîche has a similar texture but brings more tang, which changes the overall experience. Even a mix of unsweetened whipped cream and softened butter can approximate the texture of clotted cream, but it won’t fully replicate the depth of flavor.

None of these options quite match clotted cream exactly, which is part of the appeal of making it from scratch.

Related: I Tried Shake Shack's Bold New BBQ Menu and It's the Perfect Ode to Summer

Is Clotted Cream Healthier Than Butter?

The short answer: not really.

Clotted cream is high in fat—typically even higher than butter by percentage. That said, it’s usually used in small amounts, and because it’s so rich, a little goes a long way. It’s less about replacing butter in your everyday cooking and more about adding something special to specific dishes.

Ingredients Needed for Homemade Clotted Cream Heavy cream and a shallow baking dish

Courtesy Jim Hoffman

One of the more surprising parts of the process of making homemade clotted cream is how simple it is and how little is required. All you need is heavy cream and a shallow baking dish.

That’s it. No salt, no cultures and no additional ingredients. The transformation comes entirely from time and temperature.

How To Make Clotted Cream Heavy cream in a baking dish

Courtesy Jim Hoffman

The process of making clotted cream at home is straightforward and easy, but it is slow. Start by pouring heavy cream into a shallow baking dish. The wider the surface area, the better, because it helps the cream develop that signature top layer you want.

Place the shallow baking dish of heavy cream in a low-temperature oven (about 170–180˚F) and let it sit undisturbed for 10 to 12 hours. During that time, the cream thickens and a golden layer forms on top.

Oven-Baked Cream

Courtesy Jim Hoffman

Once it’s done, remove the shallow baking dish from the oven and let it cool completely. Then, refrigerate it for several hours or overnight for best results.

When it’s fully chilled, skim off the thickened top layer and gently stir it to smooth it out. What you’re left with is clotted cream. The remaining liquid in the pan is whey. You can save it to be used in place of coffee creamer or in baking recipes in place of buttermilk.

Homemade clotted cream and crumpets

Courtesy Jim Hoffman

Homemade Clotted Cream Recipe Review: My Honest Thoughts

This is one of those recipes that feels almost too simple to work, but it does. The biggest surprise is how much the flavor develops without any added ingredients. That slow heating process creates something deeper and more complex than you’d expect from plain cream.

It’s also more versatile than it seems. Yes, it’s classic on scones with jam, but it works just as well on pancakes, desserts and, of course, crumpets.

The only real downside is the time required. It’s not something you can make on a whim. However, once you’ve had it, it feels like the kind of thing worth planning ahead for as part of your meal prep for the week. If you’re curious about clotted cream, this is one of those recipes that delivers. It’s simple, a little unusual and surprisingly satisfying.

Related: I Asked 3 Chefs Their Favorite Way to Make Eggs, and They All Said the Same Thing

Amazon Prime has taken Jury Duty to a new level with its second season, Jury Duty Presents: Company Retreat, and with higher stakes comes stellar casting.

Released on March 20, 2026, Jury Duty Presents: Company Retreat followed the same premise of the first season but with a new setting. The show centers around a group of improv actors and one non-actor in a professional setting. The non-actor, referred to as the season's "hero," navigates absurd situations manufactured by production, all while remaining unaware that he is being filmed for a TV show.

Casting director Susie Farris, who also worked on the show's first installment, recently spoke with Variety about the decisions behind some of Season 2's best casts, including the season's fan-favorite lead, Anthony Norman. When curating the cast of improv actors, Farris knew she needed people who were "quick on their feet."

“We were looking for people who are smart, clever, funny and grounded,” she said.

The cast of "Jury Duty Presents: Company Retreat" attend SAG-AFTRA Foundation at The Meryl Streep Center for Performing Artists on May 04, 2026 in Los Angeles, California.

Araya Doheny/Getty Images for SAG-AFTRA Foundation

When it came to specific parts, one of the hardest characters to nail down was Doug, the son of the CEO of Rockin' Grandma's Hot Sauce. During the audition process, Alex Bonifer caught Farris' eye. “We were looking for a guy who was a bit of a stoner," she said. "He’s a genius with improv. He’s been a Groundling forever, and his in-person callback was hilarious."

The one problem was that Bonifer had previously starred in an AMC original series called Kevin Can F**k Himself, making him famous enough to raise concerns that he would be recognized.

To combat this, they had Bonifer grow out a beard and put on makeup. By the end of his visual transformation, all concern was vanquished. “Everybody felt like we could get away with it. And he was so deserving of the part,” Farris said.

When casting Jury Duty, the lead is the most tedious part. According to Farris, casting the non-acting hero character for Season 2 was similar to the method used in Season 1. Production conducted thousands of Zoom interviews, mainly targeting people interested in a temporary position.

For Farris and executive producer Nicholas Hatton, Norman immediately stuck out. His open compassion and curiosity were characteristics that were reminiscent of Season 1's hero, Ronald Gladden, ultimately leading to his casting.

"He has, much like Ronald, a degree of self-possession, which, especially for someone of his age, is remarkable," Farris said. That allows folks to approach him, and he engages with them in good faith and it allows us to pull this thing off.”

Jury Duty Presents: Company Retreat is currently available for streaming on Amazon's Prime Video.

Related: Prime Video Announces 'Jury Duty Presents: Company Retreat' Reunion Episodes

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You can have solar string lights draped perfectly across the deck. You can fill the patio with flickering citronella candles, breezy wind chimes, and lounge furniture that looks straight out of a catalog. Your garden beds can be thriving, your ceramic planters can be arranged just right, and your outdoor setup can practically beg to be photographed. But no matter how polished the backyard looks, there’s one thing that actually turns it into the place everyone wants to gather: A grill.

People naturally end up wherever there’s tasty food, and Amazon’s deal on the Kendane Barrel Charcoal Grill makes it more affordable to become that house this summer. Originally priced at $160, the grill is now marked down 52% to just $77, giving your patio, deck, or backyard the one upgrade that is sure to get used every single weekend from now until it's too cold to cook outside.

Kendane Barrel Charcoal Grill, $77 (was $160) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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The barrel-shaped grill offers 500 square inches of cooking space, giving you enough room to handle up to 12 burgers at once—  ideal for backyard barbecues, cookouts, or large gatherings. It features porcelain-enameled steel wire grates designed for even heat distribution, along with a chrome-plated warming rack that keeps finished food hot while you finish grilling in batches. The enamel-coated grates and warming rack are built to withstand high temperatures while also making cleanup more manageable after a full cookout.

Designed with control and convenience in mind, the grill includes a lid-mounted thermometer gauge for real-time temperature monitoring so you can better manage everything from quick sears to low-and-slow cooking. A four-level height-adjustable charcoal pan allows for more precise heat control and can hold up to 6.6 pounds of charcoal, while an adjustable chimney system improves airflow for easier temperature regulation. 

For added functionality, the grill is equipped with two sturdy wheels and a side handle for simple mobility, plus a large side prep table for seasoning, plating, or organizing ingredients. A bottom storage shelf provides extra space for charcoal, tools, and grilling accessories, keeping everything within reach while you cook.

Related: Walmart’s 'Comfy' $116 Rattan Patio Sofa Is Ready for Outdoor Entertaining Season

Pit masters and backyard barbecue beginners alike praised this “sturdy” and “easy to assemble” grill in the reviews section. One shopper called the barbecue “substantial and surprisingly heavy,” sharing that “quality” parts came “labeled and separated,” and that it’s “just the right size.”

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• Royal Gourmet Movable Charcoal BBQ Grill, $104 (was $130) at Amazon
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At 52% off, the Kendane Barrel Charcoal Grill at Amazon is a backyard purchase that pulls everything else together. Fire it up and make this the summer everyone remembers for the food!

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In 1970, a raw and deeply human country song climbed to the top of the charts while narrowly avoiding controversy on national television.

"Sunday Mornin' Comin' Down," was written and originally recorded by Kris Kristofferson, but later became a massive hit after being covered by Johnny Cash. The song has since earned recognition as one of the greatest songs of all time according to Rolling Stone, celebrated for its emotional honesty and vivid storytelling.

Kristofferson's track paints a painfully realistic portrait of loneliness, regret and emotional exhaustion, following a narrator struggling through a hungover Sunday morning. His masterful songwriting stood out for its literary detail and vulnerability, helping redefine what country music lyrics could sound like in the 1970s.

When Johnny Cash recorded the song, it quickly resonated with audiences and became a No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. But one lyric nearly prevented the song from being performed as written on television.

Ahead of Cash's performance on The Johnny Cash Show, network executives reportedly objected to the line referencing someone "wishing, Lord, that I was stoned." Producers wanted the lyric changed to avoid references to drugs on national television.

"There was a bunch of [producers] standing around and they suggested 'wishing, Lord, that I was home.' And I said, 'That's not the same thing,' you know, and John never said a word. He just stood there looking at us, so I didn't know what he was going to do," recalled Kristofferson in a 2007 interview.

"I would have gone with whatever he wanted to do, but in the show, I was in the balcony up there, and he got to that line and looked up and he said, 'wishing, Lord, that I was stoned,' and I just loved him for that. He saved the song. It would not have been the same thing."

That decision became one of the song's most famous moments and reinforced Cash's reputation for authenticity and artistic independence.

The controversy only added to the song's legacy, highlighting how groundbreaking its realism felt at the time. Rather than romanticizing hardship, "Sunday Mornin' Comin' Down" presented emotional pain in an unfiltered and deeply relatable way.

Over the decades, the track has remained a cornerstone of country songwriting, influencing generations of artists with its honesty and narrative depth.

Today, it stands not only as one of Johnny Cash's signature hits, but as a timeless classic that helped push country music into more emotionally daring territory.

Related: 1971 Soft Rock Classic, Banned by Some Radio Stations, Became a No. 1 Hit

Unexpected stars Bella Vaughn and Hunter Johnson are engaged.

Bella announced the news Wednesday, May 6, sharing a slideshow on TikTok featuring her new engagement ring. The ring appeared in place of the promise ring she previously wore.

“Now the best thing about my left hand... is a ring on it from the right man,” the text on the slideshow read, which notably is the lyrics to the song playing in the background—“My Left Hand” by Meghan Patrick.

The announcement quickly gained attention online due to the couple’s ages, with Bella restricting comments on the post. Bella is currently 16 years old, while Hunter is 14. The pair is currently featured on the newest season of TLC’s Unexpected, which follows teen pregnancies and parenthood.

A screenshot from Bella Vaughns TikTok announcing her engagement.

Viewers have watched Bella and Hunter navigate life as young parents after welcoming their son, Wes, controversy and all. According to the show’s timeline, Hunter was only 12 years old when Bella became pregnant. Bella later gave birth at age 15 during Season 7, which is currently airing.

The engagement news arrives shortly after the couple became one of the most talked-about storylines of the season, following a viral preview clip from an upcoming episode.

READ MORE:Fans Call for ‘Unexpected’ To Be Canceled After ‘Super Disturbing’ Clip of Teen Parents Goes Viral

In the scene, Bella told her mother, Falen Vaughn, that she and Hunter waited four days after the birth of their son before having sex again. Bella also shared that the pair were using condoms as birth control.

The clip quickly circulated across social media, prompting strong reactions from viewers online, with many urging TLC to cancel the show.

“4 days? Sadly? Literally cancel the show,” one person commented, while another wrote, “I would ball my eyes out to hear this from my daughter.”And Falen recently made her own headlines following her recent arrest in Arkansas. According to reports from TMZ, Falen was taken into custody on April 20 on misdemeanor charges of disorderly conduct and disrupting governmental operations. Her attorney later told the outlet that Falen denies any wrongdoing and plans to plead not guilty. He also stated that she was attempting to help Bella and her grandson during the incident.

Will Patton is heading back to the frontier.

The veteran character actor, who played Garrett Randall on Yellowstone, has joined MGM+’s upcoming TV adaptation of The Magnificent Seven, according to a new report from Deadline.

Patton will star opposite Matt Dillon in the series, which is being developed by Heroes creator Tim Kring. Dillon will play legendary gunslinger Chris Adams, the role famously portrayed by Yul Brynner in the original 1960 film.

Patton, meanwhile, will play a new character created for the series: a ruthless land baron named Cyrus T. Clemons.

According to the report, the character is “confident, swaggering and convinced of his own destiny” as he attempts to force a peaceful group of Quakers off their land in the 1880s American frontier.

The full description reads:

Before the Civil War, he was a humble musicteacher. But after surviving the horrific battle of the Bloody Angle, he came out the other side realizing the world is made up of winners and losers, and he was bound and determined to come out on top, no matter the cost. He eventually meets his wife Beatrice and they cross the country. The town of Clemons is meant to be his crowning glory, but to achieve that, he needs the land owned by a peaceful, yet resolute group of Quakers. When they refuse to sell their land to Clemons, and hire the Magnificent Seven to fight back, Clemons is forced to use his private army to drive them from their land. But the further his plans unravel, the more desperate Clemons becomes.

The role marks another major Western project for Patton, who recently appeared in Horizon: An American Saga and was part of a key arc on Yellowstone as the biological father of Jamie Dutton (Wes Bentley).

The role marked one of Patton’s most memorable turns. He played Randall, a deeply troubled ex-con whose reappearance unraveled years of buried family secrets. Garrett eventually became one of the show’s most dangerous figures, orchestrating attacks against the Dutton family while manipulating Jamie in a bitter power struggle against John Dutton (Kevin Costner). His tense and ultimately tragic storyline became one of the drama’s darkest arcs.

Long before his recent resurgence in Western dramas, Patton built a decades-long résumé across both television and film. Soap opera fans may remember him from more than 200 episodes of the daytime drama Search for Tomorrow in the 1980s.

He later appeared in blockbuster films including Desperately Seeking Susan opposite Rosanna Arquette, Armageddon alongside Bruce Willis and Ben Affleck, Entrapment with Sean Connery and Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Gone in 60 Seconds starring Nicolas Cage and Angelina Jolie.

Patton also starred in Remember the Titans with Denzel Washington and The Mothman Prophecies starring Richard Gere and Laura Linney.

On television, Patton had major roles on The Agency with Beau Bridges, as well as the sci-fi drama Falling Skies opposite Noah Wyle.

MGM+’s new The Magnificent Seven series does not yet have a premiere date.

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If you find it difficult to relax and unwind with your home’s harsh overhead lighting beating down on you, it may be a good idea to invest in a lamp. It’ll fill your space with a softer glow, transforming your room into a cozy retreat that you’ll want to spend all your downtime in. If that sounds like something you need ASAP, this Dewenwils Farmhouse Floor Lamp at Walmart is a fantastic option. Plus, it comes with a built-in end table to give you some extra storage space!

Right now is the best time to snag this floor lamp because it’s currently on sale for a whopping 50% off! Normally retailing for $120, this lamp is now marked down to just $60. This is a deal you won’t want to miss, considering that you’re essentially getting two products in one. 

Dewenwils Farmhouse Floor Lamp, $60 (was $120) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Fixed with a beige linen lampshade, the lamp emits a soft light rather than harsh beams, designed to minimize the glare on your eyes. Reviewers noted that it provides just the right amount of light. It’s a great alternative to your overhead light, creating a cozy and relaxing atmosphere whether you’re reading, watching a movie, or just lounging around. The lamp is compatible with a standard medium E26 light bulb, which isn’t included. However, Walmart has plenty of affordable lightbulbs available!

The lamphead is adjustable, so you can direct the light wherever it’s needed. You can tilt it sideways up to 270 degrees and angle it upwards up to 120 degrees. This lamp is powered by a standard 8.2-foot power cord, providing enough length to reach an outlet without requiring an extension cord. The cord is also equipped with a floor switch so you can easily turn the lamp on and off with your feet without having to bend down. 

For added convenience, this floor lamp boasts a two-tier end table. Each tier has a 13.2-inch diameter, offering plenty of storage space. You can use the top tier to set down drinks or display decor pieces, and use the bottom tier to store and organize those small items that currently don’t have a proper home. 

Oozing with farmhouse charm, this lamp will make your space feel cozy and inviting. The round tabletops feature an exposed wood grain finish, which gives the piece a rustic touch. Made of linen, which is a key element of the farmhouse aesthetic, the lampshade has a natural feel. 

Related: Amazon's 'Super Chic' $40 Ceramic Table Lamp Set Adds a 'Cozy' Glow to Any Space

The frame is made of metal, and shoppers mentioned that it feels very sturdy. As a bonus, several customers raved about how easy it is to assemble. Some even said that it took them just 15 minutes to put everything together. 

This floor lamp is ideal for small and large spaces alike. Measuring 62 inches tall with an end table that builds up, it takes advantage of vertical space. It offers additional storage without taking up much floor space.

One shopper attested to the space-saving design, noting that it’s “great for small spaces.” In agreement, another reviewer called this lamp a “very functional space saver.” They also said that the table is "beautiful" and “makes the lamp look way more expensive than it is.” 

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Practical, functional, and stylish, the Dewenwils Farmhouse Floor Lamp can do it all. Don’t hesitate to head to Walmart and snag it while it’s still on sale for just $60! 

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The celebrity tell-all used to be a glossy process from beginning to end: a ghostwriter would scrub the scandals until they gleamed, the star would pose for a soft-focus cover, and we’d all pretend they wrote it between takes on a movie set. But the data coming out of Goodreads this year proves that the era of the sparkly celebrity memoir is over. Readers want more than star power. They want the whole story.

The news from Goodreads over the last twelve months shows that the genre has shifted. The books topping the charts come from more than the biggest names on a marquee; they are the ones getting high marks for being open.

Jeff Hiller’s Actress of a Certain Age: My Twenty-Year Trail to Overnight Success holds the top spot with a 4.47 rating. It is a raw look at the two decades he spent working before anyone knew his name. Before the red carpets, there was the reality of a working actor in New York.

The High Scorers

The ratings reveal a trend toward authors who skip the PR-approved version of their lives.

• Jeff Hiller, Actress of a Certain Age (4.47)
• Tina Knowles, Matriarch (4.45)
• Lena Dunham, Famesick (4.41)
• David Archuleta, Devout (4.40)
• Cameron Crowe, The Uncool (4.38)

Knowles’ Matriarch pulled a 4.45, focusing on the family dynamics behind one of the most famous musical dynasties in history. Right behind it is Dunham’s Famesick at 4.41, which tracks the often strange experience of being a public figure in the age of the internet.

Some of the highest-rated books from the last year come from niche audiences. Archuleta’s Devout (4.40) walks through his exit from the Mormon church. It’s a story that found an appreciative audience on Goodreads.

Similarly, So Gay for You by Kate Moennig and Leisha Hailey (4.37) acts as a retrospective on their time on The L Word and the friendship that followed. It isn't a broad book about Hollywood, but for the fans who read it, the rating is nearly perfect.

The Rest of the Best

The list continues with names that span from rock journalism to sitcom royalty:

• Tim Curry, Vagabond (4.34): The career of a cult icon who has seen every side of the industry.
• Zarna Garg,This American Woman (4.33): A memoir from the comedian about moving to America and starting a career later in life.
• Christina Applegate, You with the Sad Eyes (4.27): A heavy, honest account of her recent health battles and life in the spotlight.
• Alyson Stoner, Semi-Well-Adjusted Despite Literally Everything (4.19): A former child star's take on growing up in front of a camera.

These ratings measure more than fame. If they did, the biggest stars in the world would be at the top of the list. Instead, the books that are sticking with readers are the ones where the person behind the name actually shows up on the page.

This novel has connected readers for generations. Today it celebrates an important anniversary.

On May 7, 1951, The Town by ConradRichter received the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction.

The bestseller was published in 1950 as the third in a trilogy. The previous books in the set were The Trees and The Fields. The trio was released in a single volume known as The Awakening Land in 1966.

The books have become American classics. According to the Chicago Review Press, after the trilogy Richter earned “immense acclaim, ranking him with the greatest of American mid-century novelists.”

The series follows SaywardLuckett and her family during the late 18th to mid-19th century in the Ohio River valley. In The Town, Luckett navigated the transition from settlement to a town. She battles the loss of pioneer values and the difficulties of modernization as she transitions from a log cabin to a brick house.

Richter is known for his descriptive and precise writing style. 

“He labored for clarity and order and for power through simplicity,” DavidMcCullough wrote in The Brave Companions: Portraits in History Book. “I don’t think anyone ever worked harder to make it all seem so effortless, as if the story were being told in the only way it could be told, easy, natural, not a word more or less.”

The three books were adapted into the 1978 television show The Awakening Land. It starred ElizabethMontgomery as Sayward Luckett Wheeler alongside cast members HalHolbrook, JaneSeymour, and William H. Macy. The one-season show received six Primetime Emmy Award nominations.

Richter was born in Pennsylvania and moved around different mining towns. He was surrounded by many descendants of early pioneers. The author was very interested in their stories, which influenced his later work.

Apart from firsthand experiences, his novels required lots of research.

“He was never happier, I once heard him say, than when he was working in a good library, with a table spread with old books and rare old maps and personal journals,” McCullough wrote. “His search was for the ‘endless small authenticities, without which life would not be life.’”

Some of Richter’s best-known novels include The Sea of Grass (1936), The Light in the Forest (1953), and The Waters of Kronos (1960).

When we think about quintessential love songs, the Arctic Monkeys' discography may not be the first thing that comes to mind — but according to Spotify, one track by the English rock band is the streamer's most popular song on "love" playlists.

New Spotify listenership data reveals that the Arctic Monkeys' 2013 hit "I Wanna Be Yours" is the most-added song to playlists about love, earning it the title of the top "love" song of all time. It has been added to a whopping 2.7 million "love" playlists, which is more than any other track in the history of the music streaming platform.

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"I Wanna Be Yours" was never released as a single, and it never experienced a major surge on the music charts, but it still wound up being a go-to track for Spotify listeners' love playlists. The song was released as part of the Arctic Monkeys' fifth studio album, AM, in 2013, which spent two weeks at the top of both Billboard's Top Alternative Albums chart and the Official U.K. Albums chart.

The same album also produced some of the UK-based band's biggest hits, like "Do I Wanna Know?" which is ranked at No. 18 on Billboard's Greatest Alternative Tracks of All Time chart. It also spent 20 weeks on the Hot 100, peaking at No. 70 in 2014.

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The impressive stats for the Arctic Monkeys' "I Wanna Be Yours" was revealed as part of one of Spotify's recent data drops in honor of its 20-year anniversary. To celebrate the milestone, the platform has unveiled lists of its most-streamed songs, artists, albums and even audiobooks, of all time

In addition to the top "love" song of all time, Spotify also announced the top "breakup" song of all time, which is Olivia Rodrigo's 2021 deep cut, "traitor."

Related: 1977 Timeless Rock Classic Is the Oldest Record on the 'Top 100 Albums of All Time'

After a week-long road trip, Freddie Freeman went straight home to cuddle his newborn daughter, London. The Los Angeles Dodgers superstar had just concluded a six-game road trip through St. Louis and Houston. Freddie and Chelsea Freeman’s baby girl was born via surrogate on April 21, 2026, leaving the three-time World Series champion little time to bond with his newest addition.

In a heartwarming video shared Friday, the father of four can be seen reuniting with little London. The emotional clip, shared by Chelsea, quickly went viral, with fans celebrating the family’s “beautiful” reunion.

@chelsea.freeman

Daddy’s girl

♬ original sound - chelseafreeman

In the now-viral social media video, the Dodgers first baseman can be seen gazing into his daughter’s eyes and planting affectionate dad kisses on the little girl’s rosy cheeks. Viewers called London “a beauty” and “a blessing,” while commenting on the family’s “special moment.”

Dodgers Fans Embrace Freddie Freeman’s Growing Family

Dodgers fans quickly embraced Freddie, Chelsea, and the couple’s three sons — Charlie, Brandon, and Max — after Freddie joined the team in March 2022. But the addition of the couple’s first daughter has especially delighted baseball fans, many of whom see the Freeman family as an extension of their own.

Freddie Freeman may be one of professional sports’ most recognizable faces, but interest in the families of star athletes has never been stronger. Athletes’ spouses, children, parents, and even coaches are increasingly embraced as part of the team experience by fans.

Related: LA Dodgers Wives Stun in Matching Outfits for World Series Game 6 in Toronto

Why Fans Love Following Athletes’ Family Moments @moon1ightst

⚾️ Dodgers star Freddie Freeman and Chelsea Freeman welcome their fourth child (and first daughter) London Rosemary Joy Freeman 💕 ロサンゼルス・ドジャースのフレディ・フリーマン夫妻、第4子で長女ロンドン・ローズマリー・ジョイちゃん誕生 💕

♬ Moments We Live For (Acoustic) (Slowed Down) - In Paradise

Wives and husbands of athletes often become social media sensations in their own right, with many sports spouses turning their visibility into influential careers. Spouses like Chelsea Freeman often serve as ambassadors for their teams and fan communities.

Athletes’ children are embraced as well. A new baby born to a favorite player like Freddie Freeman can become a source of joy for fans who may have followed the athlete since college or the early years of a professional career. Similar to the public fascination surrounding celebrity or royal babies, sports fans enjoy celebrating life milestones alongside their favorite athletes.

Dodgers Players Welcoming Babies During the 2026 Season

Freeman is not the only Dodgers player to welcome a newborn this season. Kiké Hernández and his wife, Mariana Vicente, welcomed a son named Santiago in February, their second child together. Mookie Betts and his wife, Brianna, welcomed daughter Khari in April, their third child together. Kyle and Samantha Tucker also welcomed their first child together this spring, a son. Meanwhile, Max Muncy and his wife, Kellie, welcomed daughter Macie Grace in January, their third child together.

Dodgers Continue Winning Despite Sleepless Nights

All those newborns have not derailed the Dodgers’ season. The team currently sits atop the National League West standings. Clearly, all those sleepless nights are not keeping the Dodgers from winning.

Related: Watch Mookie Betts' Son Throw the Cutest First Pitch Ever

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If you want to revamp your bedroom for spring, Target has the prettiest lightweight option now on sale for nearly 60% off. The Bedsure Bed in a Bag Set features an elegant diamond pintuck pattern that will elevate any bedroom, and comes in 31 colors that easily complements a wide variety of decor, from farmhouse to modern. 

Originally priced at $96, the queen-sized set is currently marked down to as low as $40 in select colors. You can also shop it in twin, twin XL, full, king, and California king options, ranging from $37 to $70. All sizes come with everything you need to fully refresh your sleep space, including a comforter, two pillowcases, two pillow shams, one fitted sheet, and one flat sheet. 

Bedsure Bed In a Bag Set, From $40 (was $96) at Target

Courtesy of Target

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Featuring a stunning pleat print design with a geometric diamond pattern, this bedding set has a sophisticated look that makes any space feel like a five-star hotel. Made with Oeko-Tex certified fabric, the comforter is constructed of ultra-soft brushed microfiber and filled with a lightweight down alternative that's warm yet breathable, keeping you cozy without feeling overly heavy on hot summer nights.    

All seven pieces are also super easy to care for. Simply machine wash it in cold water on a gentle cycle, and tumble dry it on low heat to keep it looking like new. The fabric is fade-resistant and shrink-resistant, so you don't have to worry about pilling, color transfer, or seam-splitting even after multiple washes.    

Related: Target's 'Super Comfortable' $180 Rattan Patio Set Is Perfect for Backyard Summer Hangouts

The Bedsure set has earned high praise from Target shoppers, who can't get enough of its "buttery smooth" fabric. One reviewer said it's "light, airy, and pretty," making it perfect for spring and summer. Another took note of the high-end look, writing it "feels like hotel luxury."

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With its gorgeous diamond pintuck pattern, breathable feel, and dozens of color options to choose from, this seven-piece comforter set is a stunning bedroom upgrade for the season. Grab one while it's still on sale for up to 58% off at Target. 

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Fifty-two years ago, soft rocker Helen Reddy topped the Billboard Hot 100 with her classic hit, "Angie Baby." Despite the significant success that Reddy experienced with the song, it wasn't initially written for her.

Released in October 1974 as the lead single from her sixth studio album, Free and Easy, "Angie Baby" became a massive hit. Upon release, the track climbed up the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at No. 1 for one week in late December. The song additionally topped the U.S. Adult Contemporary chart and reached the No. 5 spot on the U.K. Singles Chart.

Photo of Helen Reddy, Stevie Wonder and Alice Cooper posing with their Grammy Awards back stage at the George Gershwin theatre in 1974.

Echoes/Redferns

Aside from chart dominance, the song achieved undeniable commercial recognition. In January 1975, it was certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for selling over 1 million copies in the U.S. alone. In total, the chart-topping single sold approximately 2 million copies worldwide, attesting to its ability to reach wide-ranging audiences.

Written by Alan O'Day, "Angie Baby" was actually meant for '70s pop-rock icon Cher. O'Day and Cher had a prior working relationship, collaborating on her single "Train of Thought," which was featured on her 11th studio album, Dark Lady, and peaked at No. 27 on the Hot 100. After Cher turned the song down, Reddy snatched it up, taking the track to No. 1.

The song took O'Day three months to write and was conjured up after he was inspired by the character in the Beatles' song "Lady Madonna." "Angie Baby" tells the story of an unraveled girl with magical powers who lures a neighborhood boy into her radio to make him disappear. The cryptic and somewhat creepy lyricism overlaid on an upbeat tune made for a unique and memorable entry into the charts.

Over five decades after its release, "Angie Baby" continues to entrance listeners with its creative storytelling and classic soft-rock elements. In the streaming era, Reddy's single is still making waves, with its streaming numbers totaling over 8.6 million on Spotify.

Related: ’70s Heavy Metal Band Releases Film 51 Years After Forming

The genre of rock music isn't necessarily known for having tear-jerking tunes. However, there are still quite a few rock songs that are extremely tragic.

In April 2026, Far Out magazine showcased this by releasing a list of the "10 most depressing rock songs ever." The ranking featured sad songs such as 1975's "Wish You Were Here" by Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin's 1979 classic, "All My Love," Fleetwood Mac's "Songbird, released in 1977, and "Tears in Heaven" by Eric Clapton, released in 1992.

The publication rankedJohnny Cash's 2002 "Hurt" as the "most depressing rock song" of all time. Far Out reported that Cash's Nine Inch Nails cover is especially painful, as it seems that the famed country singer, who died in 2003 at 71, had a deeply personal connection to the song and was lamenting his past behavior by reciting the lyrics.

Producer Rick Rubin Shared Behind-the-Scenes Information About Why Johnny Cash Recorded 'Hurt' in 2025

"Hurt" is the second track off of Cash's last album, 2002's American IV: The Man Comes Around. In a 2025 interview with Rick Beato,Rick Rubin, who co-produced the record with Cash, shared that he had recommended that the "I Walk the Line" singer record "Hurt." Rubin explained that he chose "Hurt" "because of the lyrics," which Nine Inch Nails' Trent Reznor penned.

"If you listen to the words, if you forget the music, if you forget what Nine Inch Nails sounds like, and you just read it like a poem, and you imagine a 70-year-old man reading these lyrics, it'll be profound. It is profound," said the record producer.

Rubin also noted that Reznor was in his late 20s when Nine Inch Nails recorded the original 1995 song.

"When you are 20 years old talking about regret, it's heartbreaking, but it's heartbreaking in a different way because you have your whole life to figure it out. When you are looking back over your life at the end of your life, with regret, it's brutal," stated Rubin in the 2025 interview.

On Thursday, May 7, authorities arrived at an area about 15 miles from Nancy Guthrie's home after a YouTube livestreamer in the area found what appeared to be a bone.

According to Fox News Digital's Mike Ruiz, the bone was, in fact, human, but was determined to be "prehistoric."

"The bone found near Craycroft and River was determined to be human. This will be a prehistoric anthropological investigation. The University of Arizona's Anthropology Department and the Pima County Office of the Medical Examiner assisted. This is not a criminal investigation," read a statement from the Tucson police department.

Tape going up https://t.co/4v82ouNP2f pic.twitter.com/xQHCCY7rJP

— Michael Ruiz (@mikerreports) May 7, 2026

Many social media users were curious about the bone and wondered if it could have been connected to the Guthrie case. About 10 minutes after Ruiz reported that authorities had arrived on the scene, yellow tape was put up to secure a perimeter. Just a few minutes later, however, Ruiz reported that the bone was unrelated to the Guthrie case.

Guthrie, 84, has been missing since Sunday, Feb. 1. Investigators believe that she was abducted from her home in the Catalina Foothills of Arizona, about six miles north east of Tucson.

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In a recent interview with KVOA, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos shared an update on the case.

"The reward money is still there—it’s there for a reason. We think somebody out there knows something. We know they do. We know someone out there knows what happened. Call us," Nanos said.

Anyone with information about Guthrie's whereabouts or the person or persons responsible for her disappearance are asked to call the FBI (1-800-CALL-FBI).

READ NEXT: ‘Porch Guy’ on Nancy Guthrie's Stoop May Have Been Killed by ‘the Boss,’ Criminal Profiler Says

When Sally Field appeared on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert on May 6, she spoke about her time filming the 1993 hit film, Mrs. Doubtfire. The comedy, which was about a divorced father who disguises himself as a nanny in order to spend time with his children, starred Field and Robin Williams as exes. Pierce Brosnan also appeared, playing her character’s new love interest.

“I would never laugh, ever,” Field said, when discussing her time filming alongside Williams, one of the most famous comedians in the world. “And everybody else was laughing and carrying on.”

She went on to explain how her failure to break character would bother Williams, who is known for improvising and trying to get the people around him to crack. “It drove him mad, actually,” she said. “It wasn't funny. It just wasn't funny.”

Related: 1997 Cult Classic Film, Starring a Beloved ‘Friends’ Actress, Was Released 29 Years Ago Today

She continued, “Robin was always trying something different to make me laugh. It was so unfunny. I can't begin to tell you. And then Pierce—wonderful Pierce Brosnan—we were sitting at a table at the restaurant, and he made a fart noise on his arm. And I was gone. That was it.”

Field spoke about another thing that drove her ‘mad’ about Williams in an exclusive interview with People. “He'd also drive you mad because he wouldn't stop," she said. "We'd have to do the scene, we did the scene exactly how it was, it was wonderful, it was done. He would say, ‘How about this time if I'm crawling through the kitchen window, and then...?' ‘Robin, why would you be crawling through the kitchen window?'”

However, she also spoke about how kind he was when her father died. After she had been given the news, he realized that something was wrong while they were filming a courtroom scene. When he asked if she was okay, she broke down in tears and told him that her father just died.

"Robin turned around," she said, explaining how he addressed the director and the production team. “‘That's it for the day, guys! We're wrapped here. You can get a few shots at the kids and maybe one of Mrs. Doubtfire, but Ms. Field's going home.' And he walked me out. That was Robin.”

Williams died by suicide in 2014 at the age of 63.

Eddie Money made a name for himself in the '70s with hit singles. When it came to entering the '80s, the iconic singer experienced a lag in his career that was revived thanks to an unsuspecting rock duet with Ronnie Spectorthat was a success on the charts.

By the mid-1980s, Money's career wasn't at its peak due to a series of drug issues that pushed Columbia Records to limit his creative control over his tracks. Wanting to still keep him on as one of their artists, the track "Take Me Home Tonight" was suggested to the singer. The pop-rock track would cause a resurgence of Money's career, landing at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts. It did land at No. 1 on the Mainstream Rock charts.

UltimateClassicRock tagged "Take Me Home Tonight" at No. 13 on their list of the Greatest Rock Duets. The track was iconic for a few reasons, as it pushed Spector to come out of retirement and perform once again. Songwriters Mick Leeson and Peter Vale developed the track with producer Richie Zito having introduced it to Money.

Reports claim that Money wasn't interested in the demo, but was intrigued by how it interpolated Spector's 1963 hit "Be My Baby." It soon led Money to agree to record the track and had the idea of wanting the music icon to record it as a duet, singing her original parts. Many called it impossible, with Money instead asking Martha Davis to record the lyrics.

Related: 1978 Hit Disco Track Ranked Among ‘Greatest Dance Songs of All Time’ Won an Oscar 47 Years Ago

Money was still urged to try and get Spector on board, with her having commented, "He called me and said, 'Ronnie, I need your help with this. It needs you to be on it. I said, 'Baby, I don't do that anymore,' but he was insistent." Spector had originally stopped performing in 1968 when she married Phil Spector, with Money recalling her saying she was retired and needed to take care of her children.

"I said 'Ronnie, I got this song that's truly amazing and it's a tribute to you. It would be so great if you ... did it with me,'" recalled the singer.

"Take Me Home Tonight" ended up being the spark Money needed to bring his career back on top, with the track having been his highest charting success. It led him to receive a nomination for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance at the 29th Annual Grammy Awards.

The track also holds significance as it pushed Spector to return to music and released her second solo album, Unfinished Business. By then, she was already divorced from Spector and married to Jonathan Greenfield.

Long before the 2026 Met Gala filled the red carpet with a sultry sheer ensemble, Cher mastered the art of “naked dressing” by showcasing a chic and creative approach to the provocative look.

With the annual ceremony, known as fashion’s biggest night out, celebrities, Hollywood royalty, music icons, elite athletes and fashion key figures gathered for a spectacular event showcasing the year’s most daring and exquisite haute couture creations.

As for the Goddess of Pop, Cher never failed to captivate the public and media with her iconic ensembles, including her daring 1974 Met Gala look, which was included among the “20 most naked dresses” to ever grace the event.

InStyle released a list of well-known Met Gala naked dresses, citing looks worn by Doja Cat, Elizabeth Hurley, Beyoncé, to legendary stars like Linda Evangelista and of course, the “I Could Turn Back Time” hitmaker.

According to the publication, the sequined Bob Mackie gown worn by Cher was the first transparent ensemble to appear on the red carpet.

The custom-made body-hugging gown embodied the theme "Romantic and Glamorous Hollywood Design,” featuring a nude-toned silhouette that sparkled with strategically placed embellishments.

Cher and fashion designer Bob Mackie at 1974 Met Gala

Ron Galella/Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images

The designer also added voluminous white feathered details on the sleeves and hem, making the red carpet look more dramatic.

Although it redefined red carpet dressing, Cher’s Met Gala look also sparked controversy at the time, as it was considered scandalous and highly provocative.

In a documentary, Bob Mackie: Naked Illusion, the designer revealed what pushed him to create such a visionary look.

“I said to her, ‘What do you want to wear to that, to the Metropolitan, when we go there?’ ” he shared, adding, “She wanted me to go with her and I said, ‘I'll go with you. But what do you want to wear? You have to wear something that we've done.’ And she pauses and says, ‘I want to wear the dress with the feathers.’”

After this, Cher appeared multiple times wearing sheer gowns, which made Vogue name her “Queen of the Naked Dress.”

This includes another remarkable Met Gala look in 1985, where she wore another Bob Mackie gown but this time, a high-neck, long-sleeve bodysuit with intricate gold and silver sequined detailing paired with a wrapped black skirt with a gold design.

Eleven years later, at the 1985 Met Gala, Cher channelled Blade Runner AND Lord of the Rings somehow pic.twitter.com/w9AiX9nh4v

— British LGBT Awards (@BritLGBTAwards) May 20, 2021

Continuing naked dressing, Cher stunned in the recent event in a Daniel Lee ensemble.

After 11 years since her last Met Gala appearance, her red carpet outfit was a nod to her iconic 1974 "naked dress," but this time in an all-black silhouette.

Related: ’60s Icon and 'Goddess of Pop' Celebrates First Best Actress Oscar Win 38 Years Ago Today