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Kate Middleton to Make First Official Overseas Trip Since Cancer Diagnosis
Kensington Palace has announced that Kate Middleton will soon make her first overseas work visit since she revealed her cancer diagnosis in 2024.
The Princess of Wales will visit Reggio Emilia in northern Italy from May 13 until May 14 in the hopes of learning more about the area's internationally recognized approach to early childhood education.
“The Princess is very much looking forward to visiting Italy next week and seeing first-hand how the Reggio Emilia approach creates environments where nature and loving human relationships come together to support children’s development," her spokesperson said in a statement, per People. Kate will be expected to spend her time with parents, educators, children, and business leaders to see their work in action, her office in Kensington Palace explained.
Since joining the royal family, Kate has made early years education and development a focus of her work. In 2021, she launched the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood in 2021. In 2022, undertook a similar trip abroad, visiting Denmark to learn about their approach to children's learning through outdoor lessons. On May 6, the princess will launch a new guide at the University of East London to help those working with the youngest children and highlight the “vital role of loving, responsive relationships in shaping children’s lifelong health and well-being.”
The 44-year-old has been out of the spotlight in recent years amid her treatment and recovery. According to Town & Country, her last overseas trip for work was in October 2023 to Marseille to support the England rugby team in her role as patron of the RFU.
On April 29th, she celebrated 15 years of marriage with Prince William and marked the occasion with a photo of the pair with their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
View this post on InstagramIn January 2024, Kensington Palace shared that the mum of three underwent a "planned abdominal surgery." Two months later, per People, the royal revealed that she was diagnosed with cancer and was undergoing treatment. No further details were explained, including the type of cancer she had or the treatment she underwent.
Kate announced she was in remission from cancer in January 2025, during a visit to the Royal Marsden Hospital, according to the BBC. She told a patient at the medical facility where she received treatment, “It’s really tough… It’s such a shock… Everyone said to me, ‘Please keep a positive mindset, it makes such a difference.'”
She explained that she was doing well. “Sometimes from the outside we all think you’ve finished treatment, and you go back to things. But it’s hard to get back to normal.”
'The Greatest Film of the 21st Century' Also Has One of Cinema's Scariest Moments
I've never really found myself becoming too emotional with celebrity deaths. I obviously will miss those whose work I loved, and I feel for their families, but I obviously don't know these people personally, so I'm not in a position to grieve. Usually the shock of it hits, and then I grow to accept the situation. The opposite happened with legendary director David Lynch.
I was sitting in my film school Media Criticism class when my friend leaned over and told me "David Lynch just died." At that point, I regrettably hadn't seen any of his body of work, and even in that moment, I knew of the enormity of that event. Campus was quiet that day, and in honor of his passing, I decided to watch Blue Velvetfor the first time. I was blown away by the mastery of light and dark Lynch wielded, and the control over the medium he possessed.
Since then, I have watched a good chunk of his films, and watched all of Twin Peaks, which is unequivocally the best TV show ever made. My friends and I binge watched all the way through The Return, when we realized something that stuck with us in a way I still feel today.
We had watched the last episode of Twin Peaks on January 16th -- the one-year anniversary of his death. It was in that moment I felt the totality of his loss. The sheer magnitude of his heart and his artistic vision were gone forever, and that's something that deeply saddens me to this day. No filmmaker has impacted me in the way that David Lynch has. The world is a worse place without his art.
Mulholland DrivePerhaps the single most celebrated work of his incredible filmography is 2001's Mulholland Drive. The film opened to rapturous critical acclaim, with David Lynch winning Best Director at the Cannes Film Festival.
This legacy of critical success lives on today, as the BBC recently ranked Mulholland Drive as the best film of the 21st century. In conjunction, it was also ranked as having one of the scariest scenes in any movie ever.
This is certainly a lot of weight resting on one film's shoulders, so what is Mulholland Drive actually about? What is the story behind this monumental film?
The film follows the story of two women, one, an amnesiac who was the victim of a gruesome car accident, and the other an aspiring actress who attempts to help her recover her memory. I can't really elaborate any further, as the film is both very abstract, as well as one that is best appreciated with as little knowledge as possible.
Mulholland Drive began as a spin off show following one of Twin Peaks' core characters, Audrey Horne. Eventually, the idea morphed into its own story that was also pitched as a TV series. A pilot was shot that is out there for anyone who wants to see it, but it never materialized into a show. Still pursuing the idea, Lynch adapted it into a feature film, and the rest was history.
The scene in question referenced in the BBC list is truly one of the most terrifying things I personally have ever seen in a film. It's best experienced without any knowledge of it, and I can honestly say that Mulholland Drive is nothing short of a masterpiece.
If there's one takeaway here, it's that you should watch the works of David Lynch. I recommend starting with Blue Velvet. I think it's a great entry-level film that introduces you to a lot of the core themes Lynch likes to explore while also being relatively straightforward in its presentation. After that, things will most likely get very weird wherever you go next. Mulholland Drive and Lost Highwayare two of my favorites, and I think everyone should given Twin Peaks a try as well. Lynch was one of the greatest of all time, and he has had a near limitless impact on the art form. The cinema world misses him dearly.
Related: The 1988 Dutch Movie Stanley Kubrick Called 'The Most Terrifying Film He Had Ever Seen'
1961 Disney Darling Hayley Mills Opened a Letter at 21—The Contents Cost Her Millions
HayleyMills recently revealed she lost millions of dollars while on the RosebudPodcast.
The Disney legend became a household name after appearing in projects such as Tiger Bay (1959), The Parent Trap (1961), and That Darn Cat! (1965). Mills said she ended up losing the majority of her wages by the time she turned 21.
The actress explained she was recommended to move her finances into a trust by StanleyPassmore, her father’s financial advisor. Mills found out later that this advice was “not very well.”
She explained, the reason she lost so much was “because it was all put into a trust fund, because [British] supertax was 90 percent in those days, so they had to do something.”
“The trust company was set up for me. Stanley was also involved in setting up a trust company for JackHawkins. And the Inland Revenue attacked his trust company, which affected British law. It created the precedent,” Mills said.
“And so, when I reached 21, instead of being given the key to the door, I was handed an envelope across a green baize tablecloth by Stanley, which was the Inland Revenue basically saying, ‘Thank you. You owe us 90 percent of your earnings,’” she said.
The actress did not understand what had transpired, adding, “I’ve never been good at figures.” She asked Passmore for clarity on the situation.
“Stanley laughed and said, ‘Well, I think it means you have to move to America.’ And that’s all he ever said. He was a crook,” she said.
The 80-year-old got her start in the British crime drama Tiger Bay, for which she won the BAFTA Award for Most Promising Newcomer. Mills also received the Academy Juvenile Award for Pollyanna (1960) and the Golden Globe Award for New Star of the Year 1961.
She is the daughter of legendary actor JohnMills, known for films such as Great Expectations (1946) and Swiss Family Robinson (1960).
Nancy Guthrie Update: Pima County Sheriff's Releases Statement About FBI Director Kash Patel's Bold Claims
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department just released a statement in response to FBI Director Kash Patel's bold claims criticizing Sheriff Chris Nanos' handling of Today co-anchor Savannah Guthrie's mother, Nancy Guthrie's case.
On Tuesday, May 5, the Arizona sheriff's department took to X to issue a direct response to Patel following his appearance on Hang Out With Sean Hannity from the same day.
"Sheriff Nanos responded to the scene the night of the incident, providing immediate local leadership and oversight," the PCSD message began. "A member of the FBI Task Force was also notified and present at that scene working alongside our personnel. The FBI was promptly notified by both our department and the Guthrie family. While the FBI Director was not on scene, coordination with the Bureau began without delay."
The update continued, "Decisions regarding evidence processing were made on scene based on operational needs. The laboratory utilized by the Pima County Sheriff's Department and the FBI Laboratory in Quantico have worked in close partnership from the onset and will continue to collaborate in the analysis of evidence."
Statement from Sheriff Chris Nanos: pic.twitter.com/slujYQbncO
— Pima County Sheriff's Department (@PimaSheriff) May 5, 2026To conclude its statement, the PCSD reassured the public, "We remain committed to a thorough, coordinated, and fact-based investigation and will continue working closely with our federal partners as the process moves forward."
Earlier on Tuesday, Patel called out the PCSD, claiming, "For four days, we were kept out of the investigation. And when we were finally let in... We went in and got the Ring doorbell.”
The FBI director also claimed that his bureau communicated with Google to obtain the video and stills of the masked suspect on the 84-year-old's front porch. “We could have gotten that days before," Patel claimed. "We could have also maybe gotten more data had we been let in earlier.”
View this post on InstagramAdditionally, he said the FBI offered to analyze the DNA samples, but that the PCSD decided to send them to a lab in Florida.
"We would have analyzed it within days and maybe gotten better information or more information," Patel told Fox host Sean Hannity. "Our lab’s just better than any other private lab out there. And we didn’t get a chance to do that, so I understand everybody’s frustrations.”
Nancy is still missing after she was last seen at her Catalina Foothills home in Tucson, Ariz., on the evening of Jan. 31. As of writing, no suspect has been named.
Next: Nancy Guthrie Update: New Video Shows Masked Man in Savannah’s Mom’s Neighborhood
Amazon's 'Very Cute' $8 Thong Sandals Are 'Comfy,' and 'Perfect' for Traveling
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There's no such thing as summer without sandals. It's officially time to break out the footwear, which means you also have an excuse to treat yourself to some new wardrobe options. Thanks to Amazon, you can add so many classic and fun pieces to your shoe collection, spanning from Skechers slip-in sneakers to beautiful Michael Kors sandals. We're currently shopping for the Amazon Essentials Thong Sandal, which is up to 30% off right now.
The sandal originally cost $14 (note that the original price varies by hue), but has been reduced to as low as $8 in the bright pink colorway. You can shop for the sandal in 11 total colors and prints, including bright yellow, snake print, and a classic black. The available sizes range from 5 to 15, including half and wide sizing. There aren't many color and size variations out of stock yet, so you'll have plenty of options to choose from.
Amazon Essentials Thong Sandal, From $8 (was $14) at Amazon Shop at AmazonThe product description notes that the sandals have a smaller fit, so it's recommended to size up if you're in between sizes. If you're unsure, there's an available size chart to aid you in the buying process. The sandal design further features an 8-millimeter heel with a non-slip sole so that you can walk in them easily. The flip flop style also has a thin thong strap with a padded and flexible insole for additional comfort.
Amazon Essentials Thong Sandal, From $8 (was $14) at Amazon Shop at AmazonThe sandal is made of faux calfskin, so you can simply sport them throughout the day on vacation or throughout the summer. We particularly love that they're a simple design, so they're very versatile from day to nighttime wear. The shoe has over 1,800 five-star customer reviews, with shoppers describing them as "so soft," "very cute," "comfy," and "perfect" for traveling and everyday.
Related: Amazon's Magical Cottagecore Lamps Start at Just $20, and They Add Instant Cozy Charm
After wearing them consistently for weeks, another reviewer wrote that they're so "easy to dress up or down," as you can pair them with "everything from athletic wear to casual dresses, making them a great staple piece." Plus, they're super lightweight and take up no room, so they're the ideal shoe for packing purposes.
Shop More Deals- Clarks Drift Buckle, $30 (was $70) at Amazon
- Ermonn Crochet Cardigan $19 (was $44) at Amazon
- Cushionaire Carmen Platform Sandals, $50 (was $65) at Amazon
These are the sleek sandals that will become your seasonal go-to. Shop for them at Amazon for as low as $8!
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'70s Rock Band Announces 2026 Tour Dates 38 Years After No. 1 Hit Song
Nearly 50 years after their debut, The Psychedelic Furs are proving they still have plenty left to say.
The influential new wave band just announced a new run of 2026 tour dates via Instagram, revealing a co-headlining summer trek with Living Colour. The tour kicks off July 31 in Park City, Utah, before making stops in fifteen states across the country, wrapping Sept. 6 in Miami Beach, Florida.
"I think I’m more comfortable onstage now, that’s a big part of it," the band's frontman, Richard Butler, told Magnet Magazine. "I'm able to enjoy it more instead being so stressed and introverted about the whole business. I feel confident when I walk out onstage with this band."
View this post on InstagramFor longtime fans, the announcement marks another major chapter for a band whose career has stretched across generations. Formed in 1977 in the U.K. by brothers Richard Butler and Tim Butler, The Psychedelic Furs emerged during the post-punk explosion, but quickly carved out a sound of their own, blending alternative rock, art rock and new wave influences.
While they first gained attention in the U.K., the band's popularity exploded in America in the early 1980s thanks to songs like "Love My Way" and "Pretty in Pink." Their biggest commercial breakthrough came later with "All That Money Wants," which became a No. 1 hit on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock chart in 1988.
Over the years, the group has maintained a devoted following, continuing to tour consistently while influencing countless alternative and indie artists. In recent years, they've shared stages with bands like James and Squeeze and returned to the studio with their 2020 album Made of Rain, their first new album in nearly three decades.
Butler said at the time that the creative spark never disappeared. "From time to time, we'd write a new song, rehearse it and play it," he explained, adding that downtime between tours eventually inspired the band to fully commit to recording again.
Now, nearly four decades after their biggest chart success, The Psychedelic Furs are once again heading back on the road, showing that their blend of atmospheric rock and emotional intensity still resonates today.
Related: 1977 Classic Ballad Claimed No. 1 Rank for Six Weeks—Five Years After Release
1984 No. 1 Soft Rock Hit Ranked Among 'Best Songs of the '80s' Became a 'Devastating' Heartbreak Anthem
Back in the days before streaming and Spotify and satellite, if you wanted to listen to music in the car, you had no choice but to settle for whatever was on the radio. Sometimes, though, you'd get lucky and the DJ would pick the perfect song for your mood...like when you were feeling sad about a recent breakup and John Waite's "Missing You" suddenly started playing.
Released in June 1984 as the lead single from Waite's second solo album, No Brakes, the track skyrocketed to #1 on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the U.S. Billboard Album Rock Tracks charts, going on to be nominated for the 1985 Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance.
While the lyrics tell the typical tale of someone mournfully missing their ex, it's Waite's emotional delivery that really makes an impact, particularly on lines like:
"Well, there's a message in the wire / And I'm sending you this signal tonight / You don't know / How desperate I've become / And it looks like I'm losing this fight"
It's no surprise that Rolling Stone included the hit on a list of "200 Best Songs of the 1980s," with writer Rob Sheffield praising Waite as "the most soulful of arena rockers, with one of the saddest AOR break-up songs."
"As John Waite once said, his style is 'Heathcliff with a Marshall stack,'" Sheffield wrote. "In the post-'Billie Jean' era, songs all had to have long, long, long fadeouts — there was no concept that you could repeat the title too many times al coda. But 'Missing You' is one where you hang on the end, hoping you might get a late-breaking glimmer of hope. (Any DJ who fades it out before that last 'oh nooo' is a failure at life.) The most devastating moment: when he rips into the words 'heartbreak overload.'"
John Waite knew 'Missing You' would be a hit right awayThere's a simple reason why Waite's anguished performance on "Missing You" packs such a punch: It was inspired by real-life heartache. As Waite explained to People, he wrote the song while he was “winging it on the mic” in the middle of a recording session.
“I was married at the time, and I’d been away from home maybe two months,” he said, adding, “And I must have made it up on the spot. I suppose it was about denial, trying to be tough. When I sang the song, I stopped. I stepped back from the mic. I couldn’t speak. I choked. It was so emotional. I knew what it was. I knew it was number one. It was that good, and it had come out of left field. It was a magical experience.”
Not only was "Missing You" a hit with fans, but even musical legends like Tina Turner and Rod Stewart went on to cover the song.
"It's so weird to have someone sing your melody and lyrics that you admire that much. She's white hot," Waite said of Turner.
"It's very hard to get that song right," he continued. "Rod did it like a disco song. And I love Rod, too, but I was like, 'Why would you do it like a disco song?'"
All these years later, Waite's original version of "Missing You" is still the most beloved.
Related: 1984 Hit Breakup Anthem Deemed the 'Perfect Pop Song'
'Felt This Book in My Bones': Oprah Winfrey Reveals Her 123rd Book Club Pick
Oprah Winfrey is known for recognizing some of the modern book world’s most important authors with a selection for Oprah’s Book Club. Oprah announced her 123rd book pick on Tuesday, cementing the status of Booker Prize winner Douglas Stuart, whose John of John has been named her latest selection.
In a post shared to social media Tuesday morning, Oprah revealed John of John by Scottish-American author Douglas Stuart as her newest pick.
Calling the novel "a satisfying, rich, full read," Oprah praised Stuart as "supremely talented." In addition to sharing her selection, she also invited readers to watch her sit-down conversation with the acclaimed author.
Douglas Stuart’s Rise From Shuggie Bain to John of John View this post on InstagramDouglas Stuart isn’t new to the literary spotlight. Best known for his Booker Prize-winning debut Shuggie Bain and his acclaimed follow-up Young Mungo, Stuart often writes about working-class life, identity, and emotional survival, drawing on deeply personal and regional influences.
Related: 'Full of Heart and Wonder': GMA Book Club Names a Genre-Blending Must-Read for May 2026
What John of John Is AboutJohn of John is set in a remote Scottish island community and follows Cal MacLeod, a young man who returns home after studying art in Edinburgh. Upon his return, Cal is forced to confront his strict father, deeply rooted religious expectations, and long-buried family tensions.
As Cal reconnects with his past, the novel explores secrecy and identity within a small rural community where personal truths are difficult to hide. At its core, John of John examines how love, faith, and fear shape family relationships across generations.
Why Oprah’s Book Club Pick Matters View this post on InstagramOprah’s Book Club selections are known for amplifying emotionally powerful, character-driven literary fiction. Winfrey has a long history of bringing ambitious novels to a global mainstream audience, including favorites The Water Dancer by Ta-Nehisi Coates and She’s Come Undone by Wally Lamb.
Oprah does not shy away from rich text or challenging storylines and often spotlights authors who explore marginalized or complex lived experiences. With John of John, she continues that tradition by highlighting literary fiction rooted in social and emotional realism and shaped by the author’s perspective.
Simply put, Oprah is not looking to give her book club followers a light read. She aims to offer a book that challenges us to feel and think differently, and with John of John, she does just that.
Early Reactions to John of JohnStuart responded to being selected as Oprah’s 123rd book club pick by sharing on social media, "So, so proud to be an Oprah’s Book Club pick. Thank you @oprah."
Early readers were quick to offer their reactions as well, writing, "Great choice!!! I just read this and loved it so much. 5 stars!" Another added, "I felt this book in my bones. The writing is so lyrical and I could have lived inside it for hundreds of more pages."
What Readers Can Expect From John of JohnReaders of John of John can expect a deeply emotional novel that explores what it means to return home and what it means to confront one’s past in order to understand who we are becoming.
Related: Jenna Bush Hager’s Fans Are 'Screaming' Over Her May Book Club Pick
Cary Elwes Shares the Touching Truth About What He Did With His Sword From ‘The Princess Bride'
Cary Elwes took our breath away with one statement in a new interview.
The actor, 63, who charmed the world as Westley in The Princess Bride opposite Robin Wright, Mandy Patinkin, and Wallace Shawn, knows just how much the romantic fantasy film has gone down in history with fans. Directed by Rob Reiner, the 1987 movie has become such an audience favorite that it was selected by the Library of Congress for preservation in the United States National Film Registry because it's "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant" in 2016, NPR reported.
In the present day, Elwes still honors his memories of the film, especially working with his late friend, Reiner. In a new interview with the Wall Street Journal, Elwes was asked if he still has his iconic sword from the film. His touching answer served as an important reminder of the duo's friendship.
"No, I gave it to Rob Reiner on the last day of filming. My memories of the film are my greatest keepsake," he replied.
What Has Elwes Said About Losing His Dear Friend, Rob Reiner?Back in March, Elwes took to Instagram to honor Reiner on what would have been his 79th birthday. In a touching post that featured a photo of the duo, Elwes expressed how difficult it still is to believe that Reiner, who was killed on December 14, 2025, is gone.
“Today would have been your 79th birthday. Still hard to believe you’re gone. Missing you so much #robreiner ⚔️💔,” Elwes wrote.
View this post on Instagram What Has Elwes Said About His Family?While Elwes has lost Reiner, he makes sure to keep his own family close. No matter where he’s jetting for film or TV roles, Elwes clarifies that the most important things in his life are his wife, Lisa, and daughter, Dominique.
“I bring them with me if I can, or if I can’t bring them on location, I make sure I fly home the minute I have a break to be with them,” Elwes told PEOPLE. Dominique is set to follow in her dear old dad’s footsteps by heading off to college to study film.
“She saw me getting dressed in costume, and because I used to play dress up with her, she said, ‘Daddy, do they pay you to do dress up?’ I said, ‘As a matter of fact, they do,’ and she went, ‘They do?’ Like that, and that was it,” he told the publication.
“I said, ‘Now you’ve got the bug. There’s no cure.’ So she’s going to Santa Barbara, and she’s studying film, she’s studying directing, film theory, and film history. I couldn’t be more proud of her,” Elwes continued. “It’s an hour away, her mother’s really happy about that.”
Jessica Alba Stuns With Blonde Highlights and Black Bikini in New Boat Getaway Photos
Jessica Alba is soaking up the joy. The Honest Company entrepreneur just posted photos of her recent trip to Miami following her 45th birthday on her Instagram and now fans (us included) can’t stop zooming in to get a closer look.
In what looks like a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue pre-party, the Into the Blue actress and several of her pals lounge on a yacht, decked out with a party floatilla, Jetski, and inflatable boat slide. Over the course of several photos and video footage, Alba offers a peek into her “joymaxxing” off the coast of Miami.
View this post on InstagramThe showcase opens with Alba lying on the side of a square-shaped party float. She’s rocking a black string bikini with dark shades. Her hair is wet and down, and her gorgeous glow radiates — we can just smell the suntan lotion.
Next in the carousel is a video that captures Alba and her friends all chilling on the float. It’s followed by images of the girls dancing, posing for pics, and nuzzling their men. There’s even a shot of Alba and her new beau, actor Danny Ramirez (Top Gun: Maverick), with Alba sporting a sarong and sunglasses while draping her arm around him as he stares at her.
Alba, who is a huge fan of mantras and good vibes, also includes shots of positivity sayings, with one reading, “Stay close to people who feel like sunshine.” Such good advice. Now, if only we could find a yacht.
Related: Jessica Alba Debuts Phoenix Back Tattoo Symbolizing New Beginnings
Legendary '90s Actress Shares Best-Selling Book That Moved Her To Tears
Julia Louis-Dreyfus reveals the novel that got her so emotional.
In Bustle's segment "One Nightstand," where celebrities and writers join the publication at the blond in New York City to discuss their favorite books. Louis-Dreyfus, best known for her work on Seinfeld, Veep and The New Adventures of Old Christine, is an avid reader and grew up with a mother who loved to read. Recently, she and her husband started a couple's book club in Santa Barbara, California.
The legendary actress spoke about three books in her interview: Olivia Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout, Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan and The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead, the latter winning the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2020.
"It's a crushing story, but what I think he does so deftly is he allows the reader to have hope," she said about The Nickel Boys.
The Nickel Boys alternates between the 2010s and the 1960s, during the Jim Crow era. The plot follows Elwood Curtis, an African-American business owner based in New York City, who is an alumnus of Nickel Academy. In the present day, an investigation is taking place to expose the school's history of atrocities and abuse, and Elwood has to come to terms with the lasting effects of his experiences there. The story is based on the historic Dozier School, a reform school in Florida that operated for 111 years and was revealed as highly abusive.
The novel was a bestseller, andTIME named it "one of the best books of the decade." A film adaptation of The Nickel Boys starring Ethan Herisse and Brandon Wilson was released in select theaters in the United States in December 2024 and nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards.
"A good friend of mine, Hamish Linklater, played the bad guy in Nickel Boys,” she said. Linklater played Spencer, the corrupt superintendent of Nickel Academy. “I watched it and the only way I could get through it was knowing that Hamish is not a bad person in real life. And I had to sort of keep looking away and thinking, ‘Oh yeah, Hamish is a good guy. He's a good guy.’ It was rough."
The ensemble cast also included Fred Hechinger, Daveed Diggs, Jimmie Fails and Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor.
The cast and crew attend the Los Angeles Premiere of "Nickel Boys" at DGA Theater Complex on December 16, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.Dan Steinberg/Amazon MGM Studios via Getty Images
When it was time for Louis-Dreyfus and her husband, Brad Hall, to choose a book for their book club, they read The Nickel Boys together. The 65-year-old actress also told Bustle that she had met Whitehead before and started crying "uncontrollably."
"The first time I met him, I'd just finished reading this book and it knocked my socks off. And I went up to him to say, 'I have to tell you, I've read this book,' and then I started to cry uncontrollably," she revealed. "I could barely get the words out because that's how moved I was by his writing."
Julia Louis-Dreyfus attends "The Sheep Detectives" New York Premiere at Jazz at Lincoln Center on April 19, 2026 in New York City.Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images
The 2024 movie Nickel Boys can be streamed on MGM+ and Amazon Prime Video. Meanwhile, Louis-Dreyfus is promoting her upcoming animated film, The Sheep Detectives, and has a new Apple TV+ series, Nanny Squatter, in development with Saturday Night Livealum, Cecily Strong. In addition, the fourth season of her podcast Wiser Than Me premieres on Wednesday.
Related: Iconic '90s Actor, Starring in 'Greatest Sitcom of All Time,' Turns 72
Walmart's $43 5-Tier Storage Rack Is a 'Great Space Saver' for Pantries, Bathrooms, and Garages
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Spring cleaning season is well underway. If you're in the process of clearing out your garage, pantry, bathroom, or office, you'll need the proper storage essentials. The Ktaxton 5-Tier Wire Rack at Walmart is compact enough to fit small spaces while still offering ample room to organize tools, craft supplies, snacks, kitchen appliances and more. And right now, it's on sale for 25% off.
The multi-tier shelf, originally $58, is marked down to as low as $43 in the silver and black styles. You can also shop it in pink, gold, and white at $45 and in a Barbie pink hue at $60. It also comes in a taller six-tier size ranging in price from $54 to $63, depending on the color.
Ktaxton 5-Tier Wire Rack, $43 (was $58) at Walmart Shop at WalmartWith five roomy shelves to arrange books, collectibles, office supplies, gardening tools, or kitchen essentials, the multifunctional cabinet offers plenty of storage to keep any room neat and organized. Each shelf is adjustable to accommodate items of varying sizes and heights. It can hold up to 1,100 pounds in total, comfortably holding heavy items without bending or breaking.
At 29 inches wide, 13.4 deep wide, and 59 inches high, the shelf maximizes vertical storage without taking up too much floor space. The tall, slim frame is designed to fit into tight areas, including empty corners, kitchen nooks, narrow hallways, and compact garages. Crafted from sturdy carbon steel, it's rust-resistant, durable, and built to last season after season.
Related: Walmart’s $50 Ottoman Bench Has 'Plenty of Storage' and Comes in 6 Classic Colors
With over 2,100 five-star ratings online, this convenient shelf is a shopper favorite. One reviewer called it a "great space saver," while another noted it offers "lots of storage space." Several also praised its heavy-duty construction, calling it "sturdy" and "well made."
Shop More Deals- Hommpa Fluted Accent Cabinet, $86 (was $140) at Walmart
- Vasagle 4-Tier Modern Bookshelf, From $49 (was $97) at Walmart
- Homfa 8-Tier Media Tower, $50 (was $90) at Walmart
With its impressive storage capacity, narrow build, and affordable price point, this five-tier wire rack is a worthy addition to any home. Grab one while most color options are still marked down at Walmart.
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1984 Sci-Fi Film Was Just Ranked the 'Worst Book-to-Movie Adaptation of All Time'
While some book adaptations make for movie masterpieces, that's not always the case for a variety of reasons. For instance, a film can stray too far away from the source material, or the lead actor wasn't the best fit to play a beloved literary character.
The publication Collider recently shared a list of "the 8 worst book-to-movie adaptations of all time." The ranking, published on May 5, included movies like 2022's Persuasion, The Lawnmower Man from 1992, 2006's Eragon, and The Dark Tower, released in 2017.
Collider named David Lynch's 1984 version of Dune, based on Frank Herbert's 1965 book, as the "worst book-to-movie adaptation" ever made.
The film, starring Lynch's long-time collaborator Kyle MacLachlan as Paul Atreides, has a score of 36 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.
David Lynch Didn't Like His Version of 'Dune'Lynch, who died in 2025 at the age of 78, confirmed he was unhappy with how Dune turned out in a 2006 interview, wherein he discussed his life's work. He explained he "didn't have final cut" on the film, making it his only movie where he didn't have complete control. Lynch clarified that he "didn't technically have final cut on the Elephant Man" (1980). However, the film's executive producer, famed comedian Mel Brooks, allowed him to have final cut on that movie.
Lynch went on to say that he felt he was "selling out even in the script phase" of Dune because he knew he "didn't have the final cut."
"I sold out, so it was a slow dying death and a terrible, terrible experience," said the Inland Empire director, who also wrote the Dune (1984) script.
Lynch then said that while he regretted making Dune, he did learn to "never ever do a film without final cut" from the experience.
"I don't know how it happened. I trusted that it would work out, but was very naive, and the wrong move," said Lynch during the 2006 interview.
P.F. Chang's Just Dropped a New Celebration Menu for Moms, Dads and Grads—and It's a Full 5-Course Experience
If you've got a graduation, family get-together or just a reason to celebrate coming up, P.F. Chang's just rolled out something that makes planning dinner a whole lot easier. The chain's new limited-time "Sizzle. Share. Celebrate." experience is a five-course meal for two, so you're not stuck figuring out what to order while still getting plenty of variety.
Instead of piecing together a meal from the menu, this one walks you through the full experience—from soup and appetizers to entrées and dessert. It features some of P.F. Chang's most popular dishes, with a few new additions mixed in if you want to upgrade the night and make it feel a little more like an occasion. The celebration menu is available for a limited time through June 23 at participating locations.
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Everything You Get With P.F. Chang's New Five-Course Celebration MenuCourtesy P.F. Chang's
The prix fixe menu starts at $89.99 for two people and is a true multicourse dinner. It begins with a chef's selection, followed by your choice of soup (hot & sour or egg drop), then a round of shareable appetizers.
This is where you'll find favorites like Chang's lettuce wraps, dumplings (steamed or pan-fried), and pork ribs, all meant to be passed around the table. It gives you a little bit of everything, especially if you're dining with someone who prefers to try a few dishes rather than commit to one.
For the main course, you'll choose a shared entrée from a lineup that includes Chang's spicy chicken, Mongolian beef, miso-glazed salmon, long life noodles with prawns or ma po Ttofu, all served with steamed rice. It's a well-rounded selection that covers both classic comfort picks and lighter options, depending on your mood.
Dessert rounds things out with more indulgent options, like the Great Wall of Chocolate cake, butter cake with miso caramel, banana spring rolls with caramel-vanilla drizzle or a chocolate soufflé. A fitting way to end the meal.
Related: The Genius Way to Make Guacamole 10x Better, According to an Award-Winning Chef
The New Upgrades Worth AddingIf you're celebrating something a little bigger, or just want to go all in, you can also add three premium dishes to your meal for an additional cost. These are the newer, limited-time additions to the menu and are a bit more upscale.
Options include a New York prime strip steak tataki, served with yuzu ponzu and togarashi aioli, an oolong Chilean sea bass with ginger-soy sauce, and a lobster and prawn fried rice made with cremini mushrooms and lobster sauce.
They're not necessary to enjoy the experience, but they do make the meal feel more like a special occasion, especially if you're celebrating a graduation or a milestone dinner.
There's Also a Limited-Time Gift Card DealAlongside the new menu, P.F. Chang's is also running a seasonal promotion worth keeping in mind if you plan to return. For a limited time, when you purchase $50 in gift cards, you'll receive a $10 bonus card to use on a future visit.
The celebration menu is available for a limited time at participating locations and is designed for everything from holidays to casual get-togethers. Whether you're celebrating a big milestone or just want a dinner that feels a little more put together than usual, it's an easy way to turn a night out into something that actually feels like an event.
The Top 4 ‘Seinfeld’ Episodes in the Entire Series, According to Jerry Seinfeld
During a live taping of the Rushmore Podcast, hosted by Ari Emanuel and Ben Persky, Jerry Seinfeld and Larry David spoke about the episodes of their hit show that they personally consider the best in the series. Out of all 180 episodes of Seinfeld, which ran from 1989 until 1998, they each named their personal “Mount Rushmore.” In other words, their top four favorite episodes.
Seinfeld said that his top four episodes were “The Contest,” “The Soup Nazi,” “The Merv Griffin Show,” and “The Marine Biologist.”
"The Contest" was a raunchy episode about the group betting on who could be the 'master of their domain' for the longest period of time. During the podcast, David revealed he carried around a notebook for two years with the idea for that episode, convinced no one would want it, and was shocked when Seinfeld was a fan.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, “David was so convinced that NBC wouldn’t let them film this script that he was ready to quit on the spot once he got word. But that directive never came. However, ‘after the table read, the ad sales [team] went nuts,’ [Warren] Littlefield shared from the audience. Still, the episode was filmed and aired and is widely considered one of the best of the entire series.”
Related: 1962 ‘The Twilight Zone’ Episode Was Ranked as Having the Best Plot Twist in the Entire Series
The next episode on Seinfeld’s list, which was arranged in no particular order, was "Soup Nazi." This episode was about a temperamental soup vendor with strict rules for serving his soup. “The Merv Griffin Show” was about Kramer rebuilding the set of the Merv Griffin Show in his apartment. And “The Marine Biologist” was about George posing as a marine biologist to impress a date.
David also gave a list of his top four favorite episodes. He stated they were “The Contest,” “The Opposite,” “The Puffy Shirt,” and “The Pen.” "The Opposite" was about George listening to the opposite of his every instinct in an attempt to turn his life around. "The Puffy Shirt" was about Jerry accidentally agreeing to wear an ugly, puffy shirt on the Today show. "The Pen" was about an astronaut pen that a man gifted Jerry that caused drama in a retirement community.
Emanuel and Persky, the hosts of the podcast, also listed their favorite episodes. In the end, the group agreed that the best Seinfeld episodes of all time were “The Contest,” “The Opposite,” “The Puffy Shirt,” and “The Marine Biologist.”
1981 Neo-Noir Ranked Among 'Most Influential Erotic Thrillers Ever Made'
The infamous genre known as film noir launched nearly 100 years ago but has remained relevant in the decades since.
Exhibit A is Body Heat, released in 1981 to both critical and commercial acclaim, earning over $24 million against just a $9 million budget.
Criterion calls it "one of the steamiest and most influential erotic thrillers ever made." It's no wonder, therefore, that the home distribution company is releasing a special 4K edition of Body Heat this month (May 19), as the celebrated film quickly nears its 45th anniversary (August 28).
Here's the twisty film's official synopsis, offered by Criterion:
On the sultry South Florida coast, lawyer Ned Racine (William Hurt) is drawn into a torrid affair with unhappily married housewife Matty Walker (Kathleen Turner, in a star-making performance)—and it’s not long before they’ve hatched a scheme to murder her wealthy husband. Featuring ingenious plot twists, memorable hard-boiled dialogue, and an atmosphere so evocative you can practically feel the humidity, Body Heat is a languorously seductive tale of greed and desire, one that paved a new path for American crime cinema.
The thriller holds an impressive 96% average critics' rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with Roger Ebert once giving it a perfect four-star review. He wrote in part at the time, "Good noir still has the power to seduce. Yes, Lawrence Kasdan’s Body Heat (1981) is aware of the films that inspired it–especially Billy Wilder’s Double Indemnity (1944). But it has a power that transcends its sources. It exploits the personal style of its stars to insinuate itself..."
The standout supporting actors in Body Heat include Mickey Rourke and Ted Danson, the latter of whom led an iconic sitcom that launched the year after this film's release. In fact, one episode of NBC's Cheers is ranked near the very top of Rolling Stone's 100 Best TV Episodes of All Time list. Find out more here.
Nancy Guthrie Update: FBI Director Kash Patel Sends Blunt Message About Sheriff's Handling of Case
FBI Director Kash Patel just sent a blunt message about the Pima County Sheriff's Department in a new interview, as Today co-anchor Savannah Guthrie‘s mother, Nancy Guthrie, remains missing more than three months after her Feb. 1 abduction in Tucson, Ariz.
On the Tuesday, May 5 episode of Hang Out With Sean Hannity, Patel sat down with Fox host Sean Hannity to discuss a wide range of topics.
"In the Nancy Guthrie case, I got frustrated," Hannity said of the 84-year-old's missing case. "Because I knew from my sources they were trying to keep you guys out."
"They did," Patel confirmed. "The first 48 hours in anyone's disappearance are the most critical. And here's how these cases work: It is a state matter. It's a state and local law enforcement matter. What we, the FBI, do is say, 'Hey, we're here to help. What do you need? What can we do?'"
He continued, "And for four days, we were kept out of the investigation. And when we were finally let in, Sean, look what we did. We went in and got the Ring doorbell."
Patel said that he called the leadership at Google, explained that Nancy did not have a subscription service to capture all of the video data, and asked about going into the cached data before it was deleted.
"That's why you have that image," he pointed out, of the stills and video footage of "Porch Guy"—the masked man on Nancy's porch who is a prime suspect. "Because the FBI worked with Google to put that image out."
Related: Nancy Guthrie Update: Sheriff’s Department Issues Renewed Plea 3 Months After Abduction
Patel also claimed, "We could have gotten that days before. We could have also maybe gotten more data had we been let in earlier."
Additionally, the FBI director said the bureau offered to process the DNA evidence in Nancy's case, but PCSD first sent it to a lab in Florida for processing instead.
"I launched hundreds of agents and intel staff to Phoenix and Tucson just for this case, just to be on standby, just to do the canvassing," Patel added. "And I said, 'We'll take the DNA.' And again, it's a state and local matter, so it's their call on where to send the DNA.
When Hannity said it was a "bad call," Patel replied, "Well, that's for the American public to decide."
He continued, "And what we can do is continue to offer support. We would have analyzed it within days and maybe gotten better information or more information. Our lab's just better than any other private lab out there. And we didn't get a chance to do that, so I understand everybody's frustrations."
Nancy was last seen at her Catalina Foothills residence on the evening of Jan. 31, with the PCSD launching its search on Feb 1, after her family reported her missing. The FBI joined days later. As of writing, no suspect has been named in the case, despite Savannah offering a $1 million reward.
Next: Nancy Guthrie Update: New Video Shows Masked Man in Savannah’s Mom’s Neighborhood
Classic Horror Franchise Unveils Disturbing First Look at New Film
The long-awaited first trailer for Evil Dead Burn has officially dropped.
The trailer, which was released on Tuesday, April 5, by Warner Brothers, gave fans their first real look at the mysterious new installment in the iconic franchise.
As the newly revealed logline explains: “After the loss of her husband, a woman seeks solace with her in-laws in their secluded family home. As one by one they are transformed into Deadites—turning the gathering into a family reunion from hell—she comes to discover that the vows she took in life live on… even in death.”
The ominous first look opens with a woman loading the dishwasher in her home, who receives a knock on the door. The individual at the door winds up being an undead woman with some of her fingers cleanly sliced off and a car headrest through the side of her face, which she removes. The trailer teases the car accident that caused the injury, along with other gory scenes along the way. The movie’s tagline is equally as chilling: “Family is the root of all evil.”
The franchise dates back to Sam Raimi’s 1981 classic The Evil Dead, which introduced audiences to the Necronomicon and a world of relentless supernatural terror. Over the decades, the series has expanded through sequels, a reboot, and even the TV spinoff Ash vs. Evil Dead.
The cast for Burn includes Souheila Yacoub, Hunter Doohan, Luciane Buchanan, and Tandi Wright, with longtime franchise collaborators, including Raimi and Bruce Campbell, remaining involved as producers. The trailer first debuted at CinemaCon in Las Vegas last month.
But that’s not all for the franchise. Another installment, Evil Dead Wrath, is already in the works—a surprisingly quick turnaround given how recently Burn wrapped production. It is expected to be released sometime in Spring 2028.
Evil Dead Burn is set to hit theaters on July 10.
1985 Nostalgic Hit With Iconic No. 1 Anthem Ranked Among Best Rock Movies of All Time
We will never forget about The Breakfast Club. John Hughes’ seminal teen classic is a time capsule of ’80s nostalgia, capturing the highs and heartbreaks of adolescence while delivering a defining soundtrack capped by a No. 1 anthem that still rocks today. With its unforgettable take on teen identity and killer musical moment, the film remains as iconic as ever. And now, Ultimate Classic Rock has ranked it best rock movie of 1985.
“After the success of Sixteen Candles the year before, John Hughes’ knack for understanding the problems facing suburban teenagers reached full bloom with The Breakfast Club,” UCR writes. “He also recognized the importance of music in their lives, opening the film with a quote from David Bowie's Changes before making way for its theme, Simple Minds’ ‘Don’t You (Forget About Me).’”
View this post on InstagramReleased in February 1985, the film sends a brain, an athlete, a basket case, a princess, and a criminal to detention on a Saturday. As their walls come down, defenses crack and labels begin to blur, revealing just how much the group has in common. Subtle yet deeply impactful, Hughes’ shift to more emotionally honest teen storytelling helped define the coming-of-age genre. And set the gold standard for a final scene.
Bookending the film, “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” has an interesting backstory. Initially offered to several artists before finding a home, the song was turned down by Roxy Music’s Bryan Ferry, Billy Idol, and even Simple Minds. Reluctantly, the Scottish rockers finally agreed to record the song, written and composed by producer Keith Forsey and guitarist Steve Schiff. And it was the best move of the band’s career: The hit soared to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, launching the band into international stardom.
“The track, which was reprised over the closing credits, was the only memorable song on the soundtrack,” UCR writes, “but it was so anthemic that it became synonymous with the inroads synth-heavy pop had made toward the mainstream.”
Like its theme song, the cast went through its own bout of shakeups. Imagine this: Emilio Estevez as Bender, Molly Ringwald as Allison, and Robin Wright, John Cusack, and Nicolas Cage rounding out the cast. Yeah. It could've happened. We are definitely thankful for the final cast we got, though, with Ally Sheedy, Anthony Michael Hall, and Judd Nelson joining Estevez and Ringwald, but the near-miss casting stories are always fun to entertain.
Moviegoers clearly agreed. The 1985 release was a box office smash, earning an estimated $52 million on a $1 million budget, while the soundtrack climbed to No. 17 on Billboard 200. Today, the movie stands as an iconic coming-of-age classic with its anthem and final scene forever intertwined. We’d say Hughes earned a massive gold star with this one.
Related: 1971 Bittersweet Classic With Soulful Soundtrack Ranked Among Greatest Rock Movies
12 Best Nail Strengtheners That Actually Work, Tested by Celebrity Manicurists
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If your nails are constantly peeling, breaking or just refusing to grow past a certain point, you’re not alone—nail damage is incredibly common, especially if you regularly wear polish, gel or press-ons. What’s more confusing is that the solution seems simple. Use a nail strengthener, right?
But if you’ve ever actually tried one, you know it’s not that straightforward. Some formulas feel like they make your nails harder, but then they snap. Others promise repair but don’t seem to do much at all. And then there’s the bigger question: are nail strengtheners even doing anything, or are they just another step that sounds good in theory?
Part of the issue is that “weak nails” can mean a lot of different things. For some people, it’s peeling and flaking. For others, it’s bending, splitting or just never growing. And depending on what’s actually going on, the product that works for someone else might not work for you.
So, we spoke with celebrity manicurists to understand what actually makes a nail strengthener worth using. The biggest takeaway? These products can work—but only if you understand what they’re designed to do, and what your nails actually need. Some formulas reinforce, others hydrate and the best ones do both. And just as important as the product itself is how (and how consistently) you use it.
Ahead, everything to know before you buy—and the nail strengtheners that experts actually recommend.
Related: The French-Inspired Manicure That’s Flattering at Any Age, According to Celebrity Nail Artists
Do Nail Strengtheners Actually Work?Short answer: yes—but they’re not a quick fix. “Nail strengtheners do not repair instantly—they support new growth and protect,” says Jacqueline Pham, a celebrity manicurist who has worked with Jennifer Lopez and Halle Berry.
According to JinSoon Choi, whose clients include fashion week regulars, the most effective formulas don’t just harden the nail—they improve both strength and flexibility, which helps prevent breakage. That distinction matters. Overly hard nails can actually snap more easily, while overly soft nails can peel or bend—the goal is balance.
And in many cases, what people think is “weakness” is actually dehydration. “Many people think their nails are weak because they break easily, but often they’re actually just very dry,” Choi explains. “That lack of moisture causes cracking.”
Related: 7 Nail Mistakes That Make Hands Look Older—and What To Try Instead
Related: How To Get the Perfect Princess Nails, According to a Professional Nail Technician
Top Nail Strengtheners- Best Overall:JINsoon HyperRepair Treatment Base Coat
- Best for Peeling Nails: essie Hard to Resist Nail Strengthener
- Best for Growth:Olive & June Advanced Nail Strengthener
- Best for Damaged Nails:Color Street Nail Strengthener
- Best for Thin Nails:Nailtiques Formula 2
- Best for Weak Nails:Nail Tek Intensive Therapy 2
- Best Base Coat:OPI Nail Envy Original
- Best Budget:Sally Hansen Hard As Nails Strengthener
- Best With Color:Essie Treat Love & Color
- Best Hydrating Formula:Butter London Nail Rescue Basecoat
- Best for Splitting Nails:Orly Nail Defense
- Best Luxury:Dior Nail Glow
The best nail strengtheners don’t rely on just one type of ingredient—they combine reinforcing and conditioning elements. Choi recommends looking for exfoliating acids like glycolic, lactic and malic acids to smooth the nail surface, along with vitamins C, E and panthenol to maintain flexibility.
Pham points to keratin as a key strengthening ingredient, since it reinforces the structure of the nail itself. Meanwhile, manicurist Nettie Davis—who has worked with Zendaya, Janelle Monáe and Gabrielle Union—highlights ingredients like calcium, biotin, glycerin and hydrolyzed wheat protein for long-term strength and flexibility.
The common theme: strong nails aren’t just hard—they’re hydrated.
Related: 50 Best Nail Ideas for Women Over 50
What’s the Best Way To Apply Nail Strengtheners?Application is where a lot of people go wrong. “You want to apply on clean, oil-free nails,” says Choi. “For weak or damaged nails, I recommend two coats on bare nails.”
Consistency matters just as much. Pham suggests removing and reapplying at least once a week, while Davis recommends adding a fresh coat every couple of days if you’re actively trying to repair damage. If you’re using it as maintenance, you can wear it under polish. But if you’re in recovery mode, simpler is better.
Related: 35 Beautiful Birthday Nails To Amp Up Your Special Day
Can You Use Nail Strengtheners With Other Products?Yes—but it depends on your goal. If your nails are relatively healthy, strengtheners can double as a base coat and help your manicure last longer. Olivia Van Iderstine, Olive & June’s mani trend expert, notes that some formulas even improve polish adhesion.
But if your nails are damaged, layering too many products can work against you. Davis recommends letting the strengthener do its job on its own first: “A strengthener should focus on nourishing the nail. Treatment first, longevity second.”
Related: The Viral Manicure Everyone’s Asking For—And Why It Flatters Every Age
12 Best Nail Strengtheners, Tested by Celebrity ManicuristsBest Overall: JINsoon HyperRepair Treatment Base Coat, $22JinSoon
Shop It at JinSoonIf you want a formula that does a little bit of everything well, this is the one experts consistently point to. It’s designed to strengthen while maintaining flexibility—something Choi emphasizes as essential to preventing breakage. “A good strengthener improves both strength and flexibility, so nails don’t become brittle,” she says.
She recommends this formula specifically because it reinforces the nail without making it overly hard, which can actually lead to snapping. It’s especially useful if your nails are recovering from gels or frequent polish removal and need to be brought back to a healthy baseline.
Related: The 11 Best Retinol Hand Creams To Tackle Signs of Aging
Best for Peeling Nails: essie Hard to Resist Nail Strengthener, $11Ulta
Shop It at UltaPeeling nails usually aren’t just weak—they’re dehydrated and breaking down at the surface. This formula leans more into repair and conditioning, using strengthening technology alongside hydrating ingredients to help smooth layers and reduce flaking over time. According to Choi, it’s less about creating a hard shell and more about improving the overall condition of the nail so it stops splitting in the first place.
Treatments like this work well for peeling specifically because they focus on flexibility and moisture—not just reinforcement—making them a better long-term fix for nails that won’t stop flaking.
Amazon
Shop It on AmazonIf your goal is longer nails—not just stronger ones—this upgraded version is worth considering. It’s designed to protect against chipping and breakage while supporting growth, which makes a difference if your nails tend to break before you see real length.
Van Iderstine notes that this is ideal “when you want to achieve your longest, strongest nails,” with many users seeing improvement quickly. It layers easily under polish, so you can keep your routine intact while still treating your nails.
Best for Damaged Nails: Color Street Nail Strengthener, $13Color Street
Shop It at ColorstreetWhen nails feel compromised—whether from over-filing, gel removal or general wear—this formula focuses on rebuilding strength. It’s packed with keratin and vitamins, which help reinforce the nail structure and support healthier regrowth over time.
Pham recommends keratin-based formulas like this one because they directly strengthen the nail itself. It’s a good option if your nails feel thin, weak or easily damaged.
Best for Thin Nails: Nailtiques Formula 2, $18Amazon
Shop It on AmazonThis is one of those “if you know, you know” products that professionals swear by. It’s especially effective for thin, peeling nails, helping to gradually rebuild strength without making them feel heavy or stiff.
Davis calls this one of the “gold standards,” adding, “The secret to strong nails is sticking to the legends.” If your nails won’t grow past a certain point, this is often the one that makes the biggest difference.
Best for Weak Nails: Nail Tek Intensive Therapy 2, $13Amazon
Shop It on AmazonSoft, bendy nails require a slightly different approach, and this formula is designed with that in mind. It helps reinforce the nail structure while reducing peeling and splitting, making nails feel more stable over time. Davis recommends this alongside Nailtiques as a tried-and-true option. It’s particularly helpful if your nails feel flexible but fragile, rather than dry or brittle.
Best Base Coat: OPI Nail Envy Original, $20Amazon
Shop It on AmazonIf you want a strengthener that fits seamlessly into your existing routine, this is one of the easiest options, says Natalie Minerva, celebrity nail artist who has worked with Demi Lovato. It doubles as a base coat, using hydrolyzed wheat protein and calcium to reinforce nails while prepping them for polish. You can use it under any manicure, which makes it easier to stay consistent.
Best Budget: Sally Hansen Hard As Nails Strengthener, $3Amazon
Shop It on AmazonThis is the classic drugstore pick that’s been around for years—and for good reason. It focuses on strengthening and protecting against everyday wear, making it a reliable option if your nails are generally healthy, but prone to occasional breakage, says Davis. If you’re new to nail treatments or just want something affordable to start with, this is an easy entry point.
Best With Color: Essie Treat Love & Color, $9Amazon
Shop It on AmazonIf you don’t want to go fully bare while treating your nails, this is a great compromise. It combines strengthening ingredients with a sheer wash of color, so your nails look polished while still improving over time. This is especially useful if you’re trying to repair damage but still want your nails to look finished day-to-day, says Davis.
Best Hydrating Formula: Butter London Nail Rescue Basecoat, $15Amazon
Shop It on AmazonNot all “weak” nails are actually weak—sometimes they’re just dry. This formula focuses on hydration, helping improve flexibility and reduce brittleness so nails are less likely to crack. As Choi points out, dryness is often the real issue behind breakage. If your nails feel rough or dehydrated, a formula like this addresses the root cause instead of just reinforcing the surface.
Best for Splitting Nails: Orly Nail Defense, $11Sally Hansen
Shop It at Sally HansenIf your nails tend to split or peel at the edges, this formula creates a protective layer that helps prevent further damage. It reinforces the nail without making it feel thick or heavy, which makes it easy to wear consistently. According to celebrity nail artist Elle Gerstein who has worked with Julianne Moore, it’s a solid option if your nails are mostly healthy but prone to breaking from everyday wear.
Best Luxury: Dior Nail Glow, $34Sephora
Shop It at SephoraThis is less of a heavy-duty treatment and more of a polished, elevated option. According to celebrity nail artist Ami Streets who has worked with Ella Purnell, it enhances your natural nail color with a subtle pink tint while offering light strengthening benefits, so your nails look better instantly. If you want something that feels more like a beauty product than a treatment step, this delivers both aesthetics and a bit of care.
Up Next:
Related: Manicurist Says This Nail Length Is Most Flattering for Women Over 50
Sources:- Jacqueline Pham, celebrity manicurist
- JinSoon Choi, celebrity manicurist
- Nettie Davis, celebrity manicurist
- Olivia Van Iderstine, Olive & June’s mani trend expert
- Natalie Minerva, celebrity nail artist
- Elle Gerstein, celebrity nail artist
- Ami Streets, celebrity nail artist
