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CBS Drops Fresh Look at 'The Young and the Restless' Cast Ahead of Season 54

Mon, 09/14/2026 - 7:09pm

Ahead of The Young and the Restless’ 54th Season, CBS has updated the cast photos for many members of the daytime drama, and Parade has your first look at the headshots.

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Amelia Heinle The Young and The Restless on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)* Pictured: Amelia Heinle. Photo Courtesey of Howard Wise © Sony Pictures Television. All Rights Reserved.

Amelia Heinle portrays the role of Victoria Newman, the legacy daughter of supercouple Victor Newman and Nikki Newman. Heinle has been a part of the soap since she arrived in 2005.

Billy Flynn The Young and The Restless on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)* Pictured: Billy Flynn. Photo Courtesey of Howard Wise © Sony Pictures Television. All Rights Reserved.

Billy Flynn portrays Cane Ashby, taking over the role from Daniel Goddard. Flynn joined the soap opera in 2025.

Bryton James The Young and The Restless on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)* Pictured: Bryton James. Photo Courtesey of Howard Wise © Sony Pictures Television. All Rights Reserved.

Bryton James portrays the role of music executive Devon Hamilton, a role he has grown up with since joining the soap in 2004 as the adopted foster son of Drucilla Winters (Victoria Rowell) and Neil Winters (Kristoff St. John).

Cait Fairbanks The Young and The Restless on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)* Pictured: Cait Fairbanks. Photo Courtesey of Howard Wise © Sony Pictures Television. All Rights Reserved.

Cait Fairbanks portrays musician Tessa Porter; she originally joined the cast in 2017.

Camryn Grimes The Young and The Restless on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)* Pictured: Camryn Grimes. Photo Courtesey of Howard Wise © Sony Pictures Television. All Rights Reserved.

Camryn Grimes portrays Mariah Copeland, a role she has played since 2013. Grimes previously portrayed Mariah’s twin sister, Cassie Newman, from 1997 to 2007, when the character was tragically killed off.

Christel Khalil The Young and The Restless on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)* Pictured: Christel Khalil. Photo Courtesey of Howard Wise © Sony Pictures Television. All Rights Reserved.

Christel Khalil joined the cast of The Young and the Restless in 2002 as Lily Winters, daughter of Drucilla Winters and Malcolm Winters (Shemar Moore).

Christian Jules LeBlanc The Young and The Restless on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)* Pictured: Christian Jules LeBlanc. Photo Courtesey of Howard Wise © Sony Pictures Television. All Rights Reserved.

Christian Jules LeBlanc portrays the patriarch of the Baldwin family, lawyer Michael Baldwin, since his arrival in 1991. The actor took a brief hiatus from the soap, but has been full-time since 1997.

Eileen Davidson The Young and The Restless on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)* Pictured: Eileen Davidson. Photo Courtesey of Howard Wise © Sony Pictures Television. All Rights Reserved.

Eileen Davidson portrays the role of Ashley Abbott, the pseudo matriarch of the Abbott family. Davidson has played the part on and off since 1982.

Hayley Erin The Young and The Restless on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)* Pictured: Haley Erin. Photo Courtesey of Howard Wise © Sony Pictures Television. All Rights Reserved.

Hayley Erin portrays the role of Claire Newman, the daughter of Victoria Newman. She has played the role since 2023. Previously, the actress portrayed a younger version of Abby Newman (Melissa Ordway’s current role) between 2008 and 2010.

Jason Thompson The Young and The Restless on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)* Pictured: Jason Thompson. Photo Courtesey of Howard Wise © Sony Pictures Television. All Rights Reserved.

Jason Thompson portrays the role of Billy Abbott, the youngest son of the Abbott family, and has been a part of the series since he arrived in 2016.

Joshua Morrow The Young and The Restless on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)* Pictured: Joshua Morrow. Photo Courtesey of Howard Wise © Sony Pictures Television. All Rights Reserved.

Joshua Morrow portrays the role of Nicholas “Nick” Newman, the eldest son of supercouple Victor Newman and Nikki Newman. Morrow has been a part of the soap since his debut in 1994.

Kate Linder The Young and The Restless on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)* Pictured: Kate Linder. Photo Courtesey of Howard Wise © Sony Pictures Television. All Rights Reserved.

Kate Linder portrays Esther Valentine, a role she has consistently played since 1982.

Lauralee Bell The Young and The Restless on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)* Pictured: Lauralee Bell. Photo Courtesey of Howard Wise © Sony Pictures Television. All Rights Reserved.

Lauralee Bell portrays the role of Christine “Cricket” Blair on the popular daytime soap opera. She originally joined the soap in 1983. Bell is actually the daughter of The Young and the Restless creators William J. Bell and Lee Philip Bell. In addition to working on The Young and the Restless, she has appeared on the sister soap, The Bold and the Beautiful, for which her brother, Bradley Bell, is the executive producer and head writer.

Mark Grossman The Young and The Restless on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)* Pictured: Mark Grossman. Photo Courtesey of Howard Wise © Sony Pictures Television. All Rights Reserved.

Mark Grossman portrays the role of Adam Newman, the youngest son of the great Victor Newman. He has portrayed the role since 2019.

Melissa Claire Egan The Young and The Restless on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)* Pictured: Melissa Claire Egan. Photo Courtesey of Howard Wise © Sony Pictures Television. All Rights Reserved.

Melissa Claire Egan portrays the redeemed bad girl and con artist Chelsea Lawson, a role she has played since 2011.

Melissa Ordway The Young and The Restless on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)* Pictured: Melissa Ordway. Photo Courtesey of Howard Wise © Sony Pictures Television. All Rights Reserved.

Melissa Ordway portrays the role of Victor Newman and Ashley Abbott’s daughter Abby Newman, which she has portrayed on and off since 2013.

Melody Thomas Scott The Young and The Restless on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)* Pictured: Melody Thomas Scott. Photo Courtesey of Howard Wise © Sony Pictures Television. All Rights Reserved.

Melody Thomas Scott portrays the role of Nikki Newman, wife of Victor Newman, on the CBS soap The Young and the Restless since her arrival in 1979.

Michael Damian The Young and The Restless on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)* Pictured: Michael Damian. Photo Courtesey of Howard Wise © Sony Pictures Television. All Rights Reserved.

Michael Damian portrays the rockstar Danny Romalotti, a role he has played off and on since he arrived in 1981.

Michael Graziadei The Young and The Restless on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)* Pictured: Michael Graziadei. Photo Courtesey of Howard Wise © Sony Pictures Television. All Rights Reserved.

Michael Graziadei has portrayed Daniel Romalotti, son of Phyllis Summers and Danny Romalotti, since 2004.

Michael Mealor The Young and The Restless on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)* Pictured: Michael Mealor. Photo Courtesey of Howard Wise © Sony Pictures Television. All Rights Reserved.

Michael Mealor portrays Kyle Abbott, joining the soap in 2018. The character is the son of the iconic Jack Abbott and Diane Jenkins.

Michelle Stafford The Young and The Restless on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)* Pictured: Michelle Stafford. Photo Courtesey of Howard Wise © Sony Pictures Television. All Rights Reserved.

Michelle Stafford has portrayed the role of Phyllis Summers on and off since 1994. Her most recent return occurred in 2019, and she has stuck around ever since.

Peter Bergman The Young and The Restless on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)* Pictured: Peter Bergman Photo Courtesey of Howard Wise © Sony Pictures Television. All Rights Reserved.

Peter Bergman portrays the patriarch of the Abbott family, Jack Abbott. He joined the series back in 1989.

Sean Dominic The Young and The Restless on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)* Pictured: Sean Dominic. Photo Courtesey of Howard Wise © Sony Pictures Television. All Rights Reserved.

Sean Dominic portrays the role of Nate Hastings, son of Olivia Barber and Nathan Hastings Sr., since his arrival in 2019.

Susan Walters The Young and The Restless on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)* Pictured: Susan Walters. Photo Courtesey of Howard Wise © Sony Pictures Television. All Rights Reserved.

Susan Walters portrays Diane Jenkins. Walter assumed the role of Diane in 2001 and portrayed her off and on before returning full-time in 2022.

Tracey Bregman The Young and The Restless on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)* Pictured: Tracey Bregman. Photo Courtesey of Howard Wise © Sony Pictures Television. All Rights Reserved.

Tracey Bregman has portrayed Lauren Fenmore since 1983. The actress crossed over the character of Lauren to The Bold and the Beautiful, where she bounced between soaps beginning in 1992. However, she’s been back full-time on Y&R consistently since 1983.

Zuleyka Silver The Young and The Restless on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)* Pictured: Zuleyka Silver. Photo Courtesey of Howard Wise © Sony Pictures Television. All Rights Reserved.

Zuleyka Silver portrays the role of schemer Audra Charles; she joined the cast of the daytime soap opera in 2022.

Noticeably absent from the cast photos at this point is Eric Braeden, who has portrayed Victor Newman since 1980, Sharon Case who has portrayed Sharon Newman, Courtney Hope who plays Sally Spectra, and Roger Howarth who plays Matt Clark.

The Young and the Restless airs weekdays on CBS and streams weeknights on Paramount+.

1988 Hard Rock Song, Reimagined by Carrie Underwood for Sunday Night Football, Still Holds Up Over 35 Years Later

Mon, 09/14/2026 - 7:09pm

Carrie Underwood has unveiled a brand-new rock remix of her iconic Sunday Night Football theme song.

As the 2026 NFL season officially kicked off last week, fans finally got to hear Underwood’s newest version of “Waiting All Day for Sunday Night,” which is based on Joan Jett and the Blackhearts‘ rock anthem, “I Hate Myself for Loving You.”

Underwood has been performing the opening theme for NBC Sunday Night Football since 2013, but this year’s revamped rendition brings it to a whole new level.

NBC Sports debuted the new opening on Sunday, Sept. 13, during SNF coverage of the matchup between the Dallas Cowboys and the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium, introducing fans to what might be Underwood’s most rock ‘n’ roll take on the 1988 classic yet.

@nbcsports

The wait is OVER. Sunday Night Football has arrived and so has the newest version of the anthem by Carrie Underwood! 🎶

♬ original sound – NBC Sports

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“This year’s show open welcomes Sunday Night Football into my ongoing rock star fever dream,” Underwood said in a statement to Rolling Stone. “I love this new version of the track and, once again, [creative director] Tripp [Dixon] and the incredible team behind the camera brought it to life in a whole new way that captures the spirit of this iconic song and the heart of rock & roll. It’s one of my most favorite opens yet.”

According to Dixon, this year’s opening drew “inspiration from Carrie’s deep, well-documented love of rock music – a perfect fit since our Sunday Night Football anthem was born from pure rock & roll.”

“This actually gave me goosebumps when i first heard this,” one user commented on a TikTok post from NBC Sports to unveil this season’s new opening theme.

“10/10 best Sunday night football intro for my queen Carrie underwood!!!” another excited fan added of the country songstress, who marks her 14th straight season performing the SNF opening.

Someone else said they were already “obsessed” with this year’s opening, while another person insisted there is “no better anthem” than “Waiting All Day for Sunday Night.”

Related: 1979 No. 1 Rock Hit, Covered by Kelly Clarkson, Is Considered One of the ‘Best Eagles Songs’

Fierce Five Olympic Gymnast’s Former Coaches Are Under Investigation Again Years After She Spoke Out

Mon, 09/14/2026 - 7:07pm

A new development is bringing gymnast McKayla Maroney’s former coaches back into the spotlight nearly a decade after the Olympic gymnast publicly spoke about her experience training with them. Artur Akopyan and Galina Marinova of All Olympia Gymnastics Center are now listed on USA Gymnastics’ Suspended & Restricted Persons list amid another SafeSport investigation, with an interim restriction prohibiting unsupervised contact with minors. USA Gymnastics notes that an interim measure is not a finding of misconduct.

Why McKayla Maroney’s Former Coaches Are Under Investigation Again View this post on Instagram

The development is particularly notable because of the history surrounding All Olympia and the broader reckoning that transformed U.S. gymnastics following the Larry Nassar scandal.

Nassar, the former USA Gymnastics team doctor, was accused by hundreds of women and girls of sexual abuse, including Olympic gymnasts who trained at the highest levels of the sport. The scandal exposed not only Nassar’s abuse but also the culture of silence and fear that many athletes said surrounded elite gymnastics.

Akopyan and Marinova have faced allegations from former gymnasts, including claims involving the treatment of injuries and the coaches’ methods of training young athletes. Both coaches have denied abusing gymnasts.

Related: Figure Skating Legend, Known as ‘Fred Astaire on Skates,’ Has Fans Saying Thank You for Bringing Back His Iconic Performances

What McKayla Maroney Said About Her Coaches

In a 2016 episode of GymCastic, Maroney spoke candidly about her experience with Akopyan and Marinova, agreeing when the hosts described their coaching style as one that “breaks gymnasts.”

Maroney described having injuries dismissed, feeling isolated at competitions and being “terrified to get hurt.” Her comments came before the full scope of the Nassar scandal became public, making them especially notable in retrospect.

Maroney was one of the stars of the 2012 U.S. Olympic team, famously known as the Fierce Five. She won team gold in London and an individual silver medal on vault, becoming one of the most recognizable gymnasts of her generation.

Where the SafeSport Case Stands

The current action against Akopyan and Marinova is an interim restriction, meaning they cannot have unsupervised contact with minors while the SafeSport process continues. It is important to distinguish that restriction from a finding of misconduct: USA Gymnastics specifically notes that an interim measure does not determine whether wrongdoing occurred.

The case also comes years after a previous SafeSport investigation involving the coaches in 2020. That history, along with Maroney’s public comments, makes the latest development particularly significant for those who followed the changes in gymnastics after the Nassar scandal.

For fans who remember Maroney primarily for her Olympic success, the renewed investigation is a reminder of the complicated story behind one of the most celebrated generations in U.S. gymnastics—and why the sport’s reckoning did not end with Nassar’s conviction.

Related: 30 Years After the Magnificent Seven, Shannon Miller, 49, Still Has the Precision That Made Her a Legend


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Penny Loafers Are Taking Center Stage This Fall, and Vionic's Hybrid Pair Is Now Just $24

Mon, 09/14/2026 - 7:00pm

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Every fall brings its own sartorial rituals: swapping iced coffee for PSLs, resurrecting that favorite scarf, and, of course, picking the shoes that will carry you through the season’s shifting scenes. This year, the classic penny loafer is everywhere from New York Fashion Week to city sidewalks and maybe even under your own desk. 

Vionic’s Uptown Hybrid Penny Loafer captures the trend with a toe in tradition and a heel in modern comfort. We just spotted them at Nordstrom Rack at a steal of a price of $24, down a whopping 81% from the original price of $130.

Vionic Uptown Hybrid Penny Loafers, From $24 (were $130) at Nordstrom Rack

Courtesy of Nordstrom Rack

Shop at Nordstrom Rack

Penny loafers are the talk of fall for their unapologetically nostalgic silhouette, but designers are reimagining them with fresh details and unexpected materials. Vionic’s take is quietly clever, featuring a familiar polished leather upper and penny slot meet a recycled rubber sole with sneaker-like flex. The result is a shoe that feels at home with everything from tailored slacks to slouchy denim, and the variety of colorways can help add a playful wink to autumn’s palette.

Vionic Uptown Hybrid Penny Loafers, From $24 (were $130) at Nordstrom Rack

Courtesy of Nordstrom Rack

Shop at Nordstrom Rack

Available in eight colors, from classic black to vibrant gold, these loafers are built for daily life. They have a removable, cushioned insole with arch support, making long commutes and brisk walks to the corner café feel less like a slog. With the American Podiatric Medical Association’s Seal of Acceptance, they appeal to shoppers who prize both style and support.

“Love my loafers,” one shopper stated. “So cute and fun to wear. Very comfortable and lightweight for travel.” Another shopper called them “beautiful” and “very comfortable.”

Penny loafers are being styled with thick socks and midi skirts, oversized blazers, or even athletic wear for a look that blurs old-school prep with contemporary cool. The Vionic Uptown Hybrid is versatile enough for all of these ensembles, making it a quietly confident choice for anyone who wants a little extra polish (or a lot of comfort) as the leaves begin to fall.

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Related: Clarks’ Fall-Ready Leather Loafers Let You Skip the Break-in Period, and They’re on Sale Now

As the air turns crisp and city sidewalks fill with the tap of loafers in motion, this classic is clearly having more than a moment. The penny loafer, especially in Vionic’s $24 flexible, fashion-forward form, is shaping up to be the shoe of the season, so grab a pair in your favorite color while they’re up to 81% off.

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Ciara Miller Stuns in Whitney Houston's Custom-Made Dress at the 2026 Emmys

Mon, 09/14/2026 - 6:55pm

Summer House and Dancing with the Stars reality TV celeb Ciara Miller wowed at the 2026 Emmy Awards in a glam velvet tuxedo-style gown. And as it turns out, the dress has a very special meaning.

This isn’t the first time the Mark Bouwer custom creation has been in the spotlight. According to the Live From E! Countdown to the 2026 Emmys correspondent, “This was Whitney Houston’s dress.”

She continued, “She wore this in 1993, 1994,” adding, “It was a gift to me, and it’s so special because in a couple of days on Dancing with the Stars, my first dance is to Whitney Houston’s ‘Exhale,’ and so I thought, ‘There’s no better event to wear it than now.”

View this post on Instagram

Miller also shared, “When I put it on, I was like, hopefully my vocal cords will improve, and I’ll be a better singer, but it hasn’t quite happened yet. But I feel like there’s still time”

After Miller showed off her luxe look, E! shared a video of her Emmy Awards style on Instagram, captioning the clip, “She is THE moment!” Fans, friends, and a few famous faces flocked to the post. The gown’s designer commented, might as well mention it was a dress I made for @whitneyhouston,” and Real Housewives of New Jersey’s Dolores Catania responded, “@marcbouwer made this dress for Whitney Houston!” 

View this post on Instagram

But the comments didn’t stop there. Others gushed, “Oh my God! It is the Whitney Houston dress”, “That is perfection”, “The most stunning,” and “Obsessed with her.” 

Bouwer also posted the video of Miller, along with an Instagram Stories pic of Houston wearing the gown in the ‘90s. “Wow, before Ciara was born. Beautiful dress for a beautiful lady. What an honor,” wrote one commenter, as others replied to the designer’s share with, “Stunning!” and “Very Whitney Houston.”

The custom-made evening dress recently sold for $5,129 at Julien’s in The Whitney E. Houston Legacy Foundation 2026 Auction. Per the auction house, “The gown features a double-breasted front with simulated diamond-cluster buttons, a white satin collar in a boxy, low-cut design, and matching cuffs, with a back zipper.” 

While Miller said the gown was a gift, she did not reveal who gave her the custom Bouwer design.

'70s Rock Legend, Who Co-Founded Iconic Band, Was a New York Grade School Teacher

Mon, 09/14/2026 - 6:49pm

Long before Gene Simmons became the famous bassist and co-lead singer of KISS, he spent several months teaching sixth-grade students at a New York City public school.

Simmons, born Chaim Witz in Haifa, Israel, moved to Queens with his mother when he was 8. He later studied education in New York and graduated from Richmond College in Staten Island in 1970.

Before the stage lights, costumes and famous Demon makeup, Simmons worked several ordinary jobs to make a living. One of those jobs was teaching.

According to People, Simmons taught sixth grade at a public school on Manhattan’s Upper West Side for about six months. A separate account from Mental Floss says he taught in East Harlem.

His short time in the classroom came before he helped form KISS, the rock band that would become one of the biggest acts of the 1970s.

Kiss Bass Guitarist and founding member Gene Simmons performs at The Forum, Inglewood, California.

Photo by Mark Sullivan/Getty Images

Simmons did not enter the classroom without preparation. He studied education at Richmond College in Staten Island after attending Sullivan County Community College in New York.

After graduating in 1970, he took different jobs around New York City while continuing to pursue music.

Teaching sixth grade became one of those jobs.

In a 1978 interview with the Lakeland Ledger, Simmons explained why he eventually left the classroom.

“The reason I quit after six months is that I discovered the real reason I became a teacher,” Simmons said. “It was because I wanted to get up on stage and have people notice me. I had to quit because the stage was too small. Forty people wasn’t enough, I wanted 400,000.”

The comment offered a clear look at where Simmons wanted his life to go. Teaching gave him a job, but performing was the goal he wanted to chase.

Years later, Simmons also recalled what it was like to stand in front of a sixth-grade class.

In a 2023 interview with Good Morning Britain, he remembered teaching students about the United Kingdom.

“I know I don’t look like your next door sixth-grade teacher. I used to tell the kids about this astonishing little island that comprises Wales, Ireland… Yes, I know all the different parts and the history.”

His path from the classroom to rock stardom was not immediate.

Before KISS, Simmons worked as a typist and held positions with organizations and magazines. According to Mental Floss, he worked as an assistant at the Puerto Rican Interagency Council and also had jobs connected to Glamour and Vogue.

Simmons was already active in music while working to support himself. He and Paul Stanley, who was then known as Stanley Eisen, were part of Wicked Lester in the early 1970s. The two eventually decided to leave the group and create what they envisioned as the “ultimate rock band.”

That plan became KISS.

KISS was formed in 1973, with Simmons and Stanley joined by Peter Criss and Ace Frehley. The group released its self-titled debut album in February 1974.

Simmons became known as the Demon, while Stanley became the band’s Starchild. Their makeup, costumes and theatrical concerts helped KISS stand out from other rock groups of the era.

KISS went on to become an iconic 1970s rock act, with Simmons serving as bassist and co-lead singer. He and Stanley remained the band’s constant members until KISS ended its touring career with the conclusion of its End of the Road tour in December 2023.

Simmons’ time as a teacher is now an unusual part of the story behind his rise to fame. Before the makeup, stage effects and massive audiences, he was a young New Yorker with a degree in education who spent part of his working life teaching children.

Related: ’70s Rock Legend, With Five Grammy Awards, Worked in a Birmingham Slaughterhouse

1996 Cover of One-Hit Wonder by B.W. Stevenson Became a Massive Country Hit

Mon, 09/14/2026 - 6:36pm

Country singer, songwriter, and musician B.W. Stevenson was working on a song in 1973 that his publisher liked and encouraged him to finish. The song, “My Maria,” ended up being released as a single for Stevenson, peaking at number nine on the charts, the only of his songs to ever do so.

However, in 1996, country duo Brooks & Dunn released their cover of “My Maria,” which was also included on their album Borderline. The single reached the top spot on the country charts, and peaked at number 79 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song spent three weeks at the top of the country charts and, according to Billboard, was the biggest country song of 1996.

The song was initially the one-hit wonder of Stevenson’s career, however, the song’s co-writer, Daniel Moore, stated that the Brooks & Dunn cover was substantially more successful. He said, “The original sold 950,000 singles, Brooks & Dunn’s version has sold over 6 million. The original version got about 1,500,000 US radio performances. The Brooks & Dunn version is over 6,500,000 US radio performances and still going.”

While the cover of “My Maria” ended up being a massive success for Brooks & Dunn, Dunn was initially hesitant about recording the track, as they had never dabbled in covers before. However, this proved to be a good choice for the pair, as their cover of “My Maria” was certified triple platinum by the RIAA and secured the duo their second Grammy for Best Country Performance by a Vocal Group or Duo.

In 2009, Brooks & Dunn announced that after their tour, called The Last Rodeo, commenced, they would be splitting up as a musical pair. “My Maria” was their last performance at the ACM Awards before their inital split took place in 2010.

The duo reunited for a recording of the track with Thomas Rhett for their 2019 album, Reboot, an album with reimagined recordings of all of their most famous and lauded works over the course of their career.

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Related: 1974 Soft-Rock Cover, the Artist’s Only No. 1 Hit, Became a Timeless Breakup Anthem

Jennifer Aniston’s First Emmy Red Carpet Look Is Peak ’90s

Mon, 09/14/2026 - 6:32pm

It’s hard to believe that it has been more than 20 years since Jennifer Aniston made her debut on the Primetime Emmy Awards red carpet.

The then-26-year-old actress was joined by her Friends co-star Matthew Perry at the event held on September 10, 1995. While she was not nominated, she stunned in an elegant black strapless dress with matching elbow-length gloves.

She was also rocking her now-iconic “The Rachel” haircut. Overall, her look was peak ’90s, and we wouldn’t be surprised if others mimic the look on the red carpet at this year’s event.

She was nominated for her first Emmy Award in 2000 for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, but she would not win the award until 2002. Accepting her award, Aniston wore a nude gown with a matching scarf, and her hair was in loose curls. The epitome of California chic.

And while Aniston, 57, loves to keep things minimalist, she vowed to take more fashion risks on the red carpet.

PASADENA, CA – SEPTEMBER 9: Actress Jennifer Aniston and actor Matthew Perry attend the 47th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards on September 9, 1995 at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Ron Galella, Ltd./Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images)

“On the red carpet, it’s time for me to start doing something different. I play it very safe because I just want to be comfortable…if I could wear a jersey tank that went down to the floor, I would,” she told InStyle.

And she did just that when she attended the 2024 Emmy Awards, where she was nominated for her role on The Morning Show. She wore a nude and pearl-embellished column dress by Oscar de la Renta.

“Tonight was such a big night, and I wanted a look that felt effortlessly polished,” she told Vogue. “California sleek, if you will.”

Fox Sitcom, Ranked Among ‘Best TV Shows of All Time,’ Still Holds Up 29 Years Later

Mon, 09/14/2026 - 6:23pm

Nearly three decades after its final run on Fox, Married… with Children remains one of the network’s most recognizable sitcoms. 

The series ended in 1997 after 11 seasons and 259 episodes, but its unusual take on family life continues to keep the Bundys in the conversation about classic television.

The sitcom was created by Michael G. Moye and Ron Leavitt and premiered on April 5, 1987. It became the first primetime series broadcast on the new Fox network and went on to become the longest-running live-action sitcom ever aired on Fox.

Its lasting reputation also received a major boost from TIME. In 2007, TIME TV critic James Poniewozik placed Married… with Children on the magazine’s “All-TIME 100 TV Shows” list.

TIME described the series as “a twisted mirror of TV’s instant-gratification culture” and said it was “suitable for a medieval morality play.” The magazine also praised the show’s lowbrow approach, saying it was built around the idea that unhappy families could be more interesting, and funnier, than happy ones.

That recognition helped cement the sitcom’s place beyond its original Fox run.

At the center of the series was Al Bundy, played by Ed O’Neill, a former high school football player who worked as a women’s shoe salesman in Chicago.

Al lived with his wife, Peggy Bundy, played by Katey Sagal, and their children, Kelly and Bud, played by Christina Applegate and David Faustino.

The Bundy home was far from the picture of a perfect television family. Al and Peggy often argued about money, marriage and their children. Kelly and Bud regularly insulted each other, while the family’s everyday problems became the source of the show’s comedy.

Their neighbors, Steve and Marcy Rhoades, added another layer to the story. David Garrison played Steve, a banker who represented a more polished lifestyle than Al. Amanda Bearse played Marcy, Peggy’s close friend and Al’s frequent rival.

Steve eventually left the series during its fourth season, and Marcy later married Jefferson D’Arcy, played by Ted McGinley. Jefferson became a new source of conflict and comedy for the Bundys.

Despite the cast change, the show continued for years. According to Screen Rant’s ranking based on IMDb scores, the fourth season received an 8.01 rating, making it the highest-rated season among the seasons listed in that ranking.

The series also remained strong in the ratings during its middle years. Its sixth season ranked No. 37 for the 1991–92 television season, its highest position in the ratings overview provided.

Married… with Children was never built around the warm family formula common in many sitcoms of the 1980s. Instead, it focused on a family that argued, complained and often treated each other badly while still remaining together.

O’Neill’s Al Bundy became one of television’s most recognizable sitcom characters, while Sagal, Applegate and Faustino helped make the Bundy family work as an ensemble.

Bearse’s Marcy also became an important character in the series. During the show’s run, she became one of the first mainstream actresses to publicly come out as a lesbian and received positive recognition for doing so.

The show’s reputation has also changed with time. While its humor drew criticism during its original broadcast, later viewers and critics have looked at it as a satire of suburban and working-class life.

Rotten Tomatoes currently lists the series with a 97% audience score, showing that the sitcom continues to have strong audience approval on the platform.

The series also received recognition from Entertainment Weekly, which placed it at No. 94 on its 2008 “New TV Classics” list.

In May 2022, an animated revival was reported to be in development with O’Neill, Sagal, Applegate and Faustino expected to return as the Bundy family. The project was being shopped to networks and streaming services at the time, with Alex Carter attached as writer, executive producer and showrunner and Sony Pictures Television as the studio, per Variety.

That revival news showed that interest in the Bundys had not disappeared.

Nearly 30 years after the sitcom’s original run ended, Married… with Children remains tied to the early history of Fox, remembered for its unconventional family, controversial comedy and long television run.

Related: 1988 Tom Hanks Movie, With a 98% Rotten Tomatoes Score, Ranked Among Best Movies of the ’80s

The 1969 Reggae Classic Bob Dylan Once Called the 'Greatest Protest Song Ever Written'

Mon, 09/14/2026 - 6:15pm

Protest music really wouldn’t be what it is today without the efforts made by Bob Dylan and the rest of the folk scene during the early ’60s. The music of the era really helped advance a lot of the messaging of the civil rights movement, with Dylan even performing at the March on Washington. All this is to say that Dylan knows his stuff when it comes to protest music, which is what makes his endorsement of Jimmy Cliff’s “Vietnam” such a big deal.

Cliff was one of the biggest pioneers of reggae music, and certainly followed in Dylan’s footsteps of capturing the voice of the people at the time, while also making a popular song for everyone to appreciate. Not only is “Vietnam” a topical and important protest piece for the time, but it is also a great reggae song that’s awesome to jam to. Dylan was a big fan of Cliff’s before he would really break into the masses in the ’70s, citing “Vietnam” as the “greatest protest song ever written.”

I think a lot of the song’s power comes from its instrumentation. A lot of protest music from the era was extremely angry and dour, with a tone that reflected the struggles and evils of the era. In the case of this track however, it is sonically very cheery. It’s a song that you can dance and bond with people over, despite the darkness of its lyrics.

The narrative of the song follows a man asking Cliff to send his regards to his girlfriend, before being killed in Vietnam. Cliff repeats the refrain of the country’s name, and a call to stop the war. This all comes over the joyful reggae tones that instantly bring a people together. Cliff understand that change comes from community, and his song is one that masterfully creates that.

Related: 1965 Bob Dylan Classic, Lasting Over 11 Minutes, is Ranked One of the Greatest Songs Ever

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Walmart’s 'Beautiful' Tufted Ottoman Is a 'Spacious Storage Solution' for Blankets, Clothes, and Toys

Mon, 09/14/2026 - 6:15pm

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A storage ottoman is the ultimate double-duty piece, combining hidden organization with extra seating and style. By tucking away blankets, extra pillows, board games, toys, or seasonal clutter inside, it can help keep busy spaces looking tidy without adding another bulky cabinet or shelving unit. It’s an especially useful piece to have around when fall cleaning and organizing get underway.

One great option to consider for your seasonal refresh is the Ledrem 43-Inch Storage Ottoman Bench. Right now, it’s on sale for 50% off at Walmart, bringing the price down from $139 to just $70. That’s  $69 in savings on a versatile piece that can add both storage and function to your home.

Ledrem 43-Inch Storage Ottoman Bench, $70 (was $139) at Walmart 

Courtesy of Walmart

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The ottoman comes in five colors — camel brown, dark gray, black, denim blue, and light gray — so it’s easy to find an option that works with your existing decor. The removable tufted linen cover can give the piece a more classic, textured look, while leaving it off creates a cleaner, more minimalist appearance. That flexibility lets you change the look depending on your space or style.

Despite its relatively streamlined profile, the bench is built to handle plenty of weight. It measures 43.3 inches wide, 15.7 inches deep, and 15.7 inches tall, making it long enough to provide useful seating without taking up too much floor space. Steel-reinforced corners and sturdy MDF construction allow it to support up to 660 pounds, while the bench itself weighs about 24.4 pounds. Assembly is required, but the setup is straightforward.

The real star of the design is the roomy hidden compartment. The 27-gallon interior provides enough space for bulky winter blankets or a substantial amount of seasonal clothing, depending on how you pack it. You can also use it for linens, pillows, games, toys, or those miscellaneous items that tend to make a room feel cluttered. When everything is tucked inside, the room instantly looks more put together.

Related: Walmart Is Selling a Whimsical Tree Trunk Floor Lamp That Looks Straight Out of a Fairytale

It’s not just a place to stash things, either. The padded top is designed for comfortable sitting, making it useful when you need an extra seat or simply want to put your feet up. Its cushioned surface gives you a comfortable spot to sit while putting on shoes or relaxing, so the storage compartment doesn’t come at the expense of everyday comfort.

Thanks to its versatile design, you can find a place for this bench in several areas of your home. Put it in the entryway as a spot to sit while putting on shoes, at the foot of the bed for extra storage, or in the living room as an accent piece and additional seating. It can also work well in a mudroom, where the hidden compartment can hold seasonal accessories and other items you want close by but out of sight.

One shopper shared, “It looks beautiful and adds a touch of style. The removable cover is super convenient and the storage space is much bigger than I expected.” Another reviewer wrote, “The versatility is what really stands out. It doubles as a spacious storage solution for clothing, blankets, or seasonal items, while also serving as a sturdy bench.”

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For a stylish storage fix that can serve several purposes around your home, the Ledrem 43-Inch Storage Ottoman Bench is a practical choice. With Walmart’s current 50% discount, you can save $69 and get this versatile bench for just $70.

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Aldi's Cozy Pillow Is Designed for Every Type of Sleeper

Mon, 09/14/2026 - 6:10pm

Getting a quality night’s sleep is so important, and setting yourself up for success starts well before your head hits the pillow. Having the right bedding, room temperature, PJs and pillow is all important for making sure you get your rest. If you’re in the market for a new bed pillow, Aldi is selling one for just $6.99 that is designed for every type of sleeper.

Whether you snooze on your back, your side or your stomach, this bed conforms to your sleeping position. Constructed from 100 percent polyester, this bed pillow is super breathable and hypoallergenic, helping to deter irritants such as dust, pet dander and other allergens. It’s also OEKO-TEX certified, meaning it was tested and doesn’t contain harmful substances, helping you slumber with more peace of mind.

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Kirkton House All Sleep Position Bed Pillow, $6.99 at Aldi

Aldi

If you’re a hot sleeper, you’ll also appreciate the fact that this pillow is moisture-wicking, helping you stay cooler all night long. What’s more, this pillow is machine washable, too, meaning maintenance is a total breeze.

When it comes to dimensions, this is a standard queen-sized bed pillow and measures 20 inches by 28 inches. So keep this in mind when picking out a pillowcase!

This all-sleep position bed pillow is available at select Aldi stores right now as part of the German grocer’s current rotation of weekly Aldi Finds, specials that come and go every single week on Wednesdays. These limited edition products can include everything from home essentials like this pillow to cute clothing, kitchen appliances, sporting gear, kids’ toys and so much more. It’s always a surprise as to what’s coming each week to Aldi’s center aisle.

If you’re interested in shopping other Aldi Finds, be sure to check out this massive 6-piece comforter set that brings tons of cozy charm to any bedroom, this glass food storage set that’s a total meal prep must-have, these comfy new clogs that are giving major Ugg energy for a whole lot less or this pretty purple lidded soup mug that is made for cozy season.

Related: DSW Is Selling a Pair of Chic Tall Boots From a Beloved Brand That Are Perfect for Wide Calves

1970 Rock Song, Lasting Nearly 24 Minutes, Was Named After an Evening Standard Headline

Mon, 09/14/2026 - 6:04pm

Before Pink Floyd could perform one of its most ambitious early compositions on the radio, the sprawling instrumental needed something surprisingly basic: a title.

The nearly 24-minute “Atom Heart Mother” became the centerpiece of Pink Floyd’s 1970 album of the same name, combining the band’s psychedelic rock with brass, choir, and orchestral arrangements. Its unusual name, however, had little to do with the music itself. It came from a headline Roger Waters spotted in a copy of London’s Evening Standard.

The composition had already gone through several names by then.

Pink Floyd began developing the piece from musical ideas by guitarist David Gilmour, eventually building an extended work involving all four members: Gilmour, Waters, keyboardist Richard Wright, and drummer Nick Mason. Early working titles included “The Amazing Pudding.”

“David brought new strengths to the band,” Mason wrote in his memoir, Inside Out. “Already an able guitarist, his singing voice was strong and distinctive. He was as interested as the rest of us in experimenting with new sounds and effects, but alongside his inventiveness he also added a more thoughtful, structured approach, with the patience to develop a musical idea to its full potential. He also looked good.”

Composer Ron Geesin helped transform the band’s material into something even larger.

“They had only made a backing track, and they genuinely didn’t know what to do with it,” Geesin told Louder. “But they needed to do something because EMI were pushing them. And their egos were pushing them as well. But they were knackered, from all the touring. It’s a wonder they were still standing up.”

Geesin, who had also collaborated with Waters on the soundtrack album Music from The Body, created orchestral and choral arrangements for the suite. The finished recording incorporated brass, cello, and the John Alldis Choir, pushing Pink Floyd further into the experimental territory that characterized its pre-Dark Side of the Moon years.

Its final title arrived almost by accident.

Ahead of a 1970 performance for the BBC, the band needed a name for the still-untitled piece. Waters reportedly searched through the Evening Standard and encountered a story about a woman who had received an atomic-powered pacemaker. A headline containing the words “Atom Heart Mother” caught his attention, and the phrase became the composition’s new title.

The suite was divided into six sections, beginning with “Father’s Shout” and continuing through passages including “Breast Milky,” “Mother Fore,” and “Funky Dung.” Its final section, “Remergence,” brings earlier musical ideas back together before the piece concludes.

At approximately 23 minutes and 40 seconds, “Atom Heart Mother” occupied the entire first side of the original LP.

The album proved an important commercial step for Pink Floyd. Atom Heart Mother reached No. 1 on the U.K. Albums Chart, giving the group its first British chart-topping album, several years before The Dark Side of the Moon turned it into one of rock’s biggest bands.

The members of Pink Floyd would later express mixed feelings about the suite, with both Mason and Gilmour criticizing the piece in retrospect.

“That was a good idea but it was dreadful,” Gilmour said in a 2001 interview. “I listened to that album recently: God, it’s shit, possibly our lowest point artistically. Atom Heart Mother sounds like we didn’t have any idea between us, but we became much more prolific after it.”

More than five decades later, “Atom Heart Mother” remains a fascinating snapshot of a band still discovering how far it could stretch the boundaries of rock music. And its title is a reminder that an epic lasting nearly 24 minutes can owe its identity to something as fleeting as a newspaper headline.

Related: 1965 Rock Song, With 19-Year-Old Singer of The Mindbenders, Became a Career-Defining No. 1 Hit

Renewal by Andersen vs. Pella: Which Replacement Windows Are Worth the Money?

Mon, 09/14/2026 - 6:00pm

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Shopping for replacement windows often comes down to more than comparing two price quotes. The frame material, glass package, installation method and warranty can all affect how well a window performs years after installation. That is especially true when comparing two established brands such as Renewal by Andersen and Pella.

Pella offers a broad product lineup that includes vinyl, fiberglass and wood windows. Renewal by Andersen takes a more focused approach, building its replacement windows from proprietary Fibrex composite material and pairing the product with its own consultation, manufacturing and installation process.

So, which one is worth the money? Here’s how Renewal by Andersen and Pella compare where it matters most.

If you’re comparing replacement options, Renewal by Andersen offers a free in-home consultation that includes an evaluation of your existing windows, design choices and an exact project price in writing.

Renewal by Andersen vs. Pella at a Glance

Category

Renewal by Andersen

Pella

Main Frame Material

Fibrex composite

Vinyl, fiberglass and wood

Replacement Focus

Dedicated replacement-window service

Replacement and new construction

Glass Choices

Low-E4, SmartSun, HeatLock and triple-pane options

Multiple Low-E and multi-pane options by product line

Installation

Included as part of full-service replacement process

Professional installation available; some products sold separately

Warranty

20 years standard glass/Fibrex, 10 years components, 2 years installation

Varies by product line and material

Best Fit

Homeowners wanting one coordinated replacement process

Homeowners wanting a broad range of materials and product lines

Which Company Offers Better Window Materials?

The biggest difference is variety. Pella sells wood, vinyl and fiberglass windows across several product lines. Pella Impervia uses proprietary fiberglass, while Pella 250 Series and Encompass use vinyl and Lifestyle Series uses wood.

Renewal by Andersen uses Fibrex composite material for many of its replacement windows. Fibrex combines reclaimed wood fiber with thermoplastic polymer. Renewal by Andersen says the material is twice as strong as vinyl, allowing narrower frames while maintaining structural strength. The company also warrants Fibrex against problems including cracking, pitting, corrosion and rot under its limited warranty.

Pella’s fiberglass is also positioned as a durable, low-maintenance material, while its vinyl lines provide a lower-cost entry point.

For homeowners who want multiple material choices, Pella has the advantage. For those who prefer a composite frame designed specifically around replacement windows, Renewal by Andersen’s Fibrex system is the more distinctive offering.

Which Has Better Energy-Efficient Glass?

Both companies offer energy-efficient glass, so the better choice depends heavily on climate and the specific window configuration.

Renewal by Andersen offers Low-E4 glass for mixed climates, SmartSun glass for areas with stronger cooling demands and Enhanced Triple Pane glass for colder climates. SmartSun blocks up to 95% of harmful UV rays, while Low-E4 blocks 84%.

Pella also offers Low-E insulating glass and double- and triple-pane options across its product lines. Its Lifestyle Series and Impervia lines are marketed as exceptionally energy efficient, while optional glass packages vary by model.

Rather than choosing based on the brand name alone, compare the actual U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient for the windows quoted for your home.

Renewal by Andersen’s design consultants can help match its glass packages to local climate conditions during the in-home consultation.

How Do Renewal by Andersen and Pella Prices Compare?

Neither company can be fairly compared using one universal per-window price.

Pella publishes some online product prices, but those figures do not necessarily include installation. For example, current online listings show certain Impervia fiberglass windows priced in the $700-$800 range before installation, while some Encompass vinyl windows are priced substantially lower.

Pella’s own 2026 replacement-cost guide notes that actual installed costs depend on material, size, style, installation method and regional requirements.

Renewal by Andersen does not publish a single national per-window price because every project is custom-measured and professionally installed. The company says pricing depends on size, style, materials, hardware and installation conditions.

That makes comparing complete installed quotes more useful than comparing advertised window prices.

Which Company Has the Better Warranty?

Warranty comparisons require some attention because Pella’s coverage varies by product line.

Renewal by Andersen‘s current transferable limited warranty provides 20 years of coverage on standard glass and Fibrex material, 10 years on locks, hinges and other components and two years on professional installation.

Pella offers separate warranties for its wood, fiberglass and vinyl products. Pella Impervia fiberglass, for example, includes limited lifetime coverage on its Duracast fiberglass material for qualifying original homeowners, while other components carry different coverage periods.

Pella also advertises a 10-year transferable installation warranty when qualifying replacement products are purchased through its in-home consultation program.

Both companies provide substantial coverage, but the terms are structured differently. Homeowners should compare the exact product, labor, transferability and installation provisions on the windows they’re considering.

What About Installation?

Installation is one area where Renewal by Andersen’s business model stands out.

Renewal by Andersen handles the process from consultation and custom measurements through manufacturing and professional installation. The company describes this as its Signature Service approach.

Pella offers professional installation through its showrooms and certified installers, but it also sells certain products directly online without installation. That difference matters because window performance depends on both the product and the installation.

New Windows From Renewal by Andersen

Renewal by Andersen

Professional window replacement from Renewal by Andersen can help you save money on your utility bills.

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Renewal by Andersen vs. Pella: Which One Is Worth the Money?

Both companies make strong replacement-window products, but they’re aimed at somewhat different buyers.

Pella makes sense for homeowners who want to compare vinyl, fiberglass and wood across several price and design levels. Renewal by Andersen is particularly compelling for homeowners who value a single coordinated replacement process, Fibrex composite construction, climate-specific glass options and warranty coverage that includes the product and professional installation.

Price should still be part of the decision, but the lowest window price isn’t necessarily the lowest total project cost once installation, materials, warranty and long-term durability are considered.

If you’re comparing Renewal by Andersen with another replacement-window company, start with a free Renewal by Andersen consultation. You’ll get an exact project price in writing, making it easier to compare complete installed quotes rather than individual window prices.

This Acclaimed Crime Drama Is Officially Returning—And a Shocking Murder Changes Everything

Mon, 09/14/2026 - 5:37pm

Netflix recently dropped Season 4 of Dark Winds over the summer, so it’s the perfect time to binge this AMC mystery series before Season 5 premieres. Starring Longmire‘s Zahn McLarnon and exec-produced by Robert Redford and Game of Thrones author George R. R. Martin, the series is based on a popular series of mystery novels by Tony Hillerman. With Season 5 rumored to possibly be the final season, here’s everything we know about the upcoming season of Dark Winds.

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What is Dark Winds? 

Set in the 1970s, the original season follows the FBI investigation of a bank robbery in Gallup, New Mexico, and the Navajo Tribal inquiry into the local murder of two Native residents. Lt. Joe Leaphorn (McClarnon), his new deputy Jim Chee (Gordon), and Sgt. Bernadette Manuelito (Jessica Matten) do the heavy lifting around the reservation, which is near Monument Valley. The strange behaviors of some of the residents and the newcomers intertwine with their personal stories as the two men battle the forces of evil and their own personal demons on the path to salvation.

Is Dark Winds based on other material?

Dark Winds is based on the “Leaphorn & Chee” series of novels by bestselling author Tony Hillerman.

How many seasons of Dark Winds are there? 

So far, there are four seasons of Dark Winds. An upcoming fifth season is set to premiere in 2027.

How do I watch Dark Winds? 

You can watch previous seasons of Dark Winds on AMC+, through the AMC Collection on Netflix, and on Acorn TV. You can also purchase single episodes or seasons on Apple TV, Amazon Prime, and other similar platforms. 

When did Season 4 of Dark Winds premiere?

Season 4 of Dark Winds premiered on Sunday, Feb. 15, 2026 on AMC.

Related: What Happened to Pete on 1923?

What is Dark Winds rated?

Dark Winds is rated TV-MA.

What happened in Season 2 of Dark Winds?

Lt. Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee, now a private investigator, find themselves entangled in a complex case involving a mysterious cult, leading them to investigate a killer who is connected to a dark secret that deeply affects Leaphorn, forcing him to confront his past while navigating the challenges of Navajo justice alongside Sgt. Bernadette Manuelito. The season culminates with Leaphorn seeking revenge for his son’s death and uncovering the criminal mastermind behind it all.

What happened in Season 3 of Dark Winds?

Season 3 of Dark Winds picked up about six months after the events in Season 2. Leaphorn and Chee investigated the disappearance of two boys, with only an abandoned bicycle and a blood-stained patch of ground left in their wake. Leaphorn was haunted by memories from his childhood. Meanwhile, Bernadette attempted to settle into her new life 500 miles from home with the Border Patrol, but stumbled across a conspiracy involving human and drug smuggling with far-reaching implications.

What happened in Season 4 of Dark Winds?

The series’ gripping fourth season focused on the search for a missing Navajo girl, which takes Leaphorn, Chee and Manuelito from the safety of Navajo Nation to the gritty terrain of 1970s Los Angeles in a race against the clock to save her from an obsessive killer with ties to organized crime. The new season’s second episode marked the television directorial debut of the Zahn McClarnon.

Will there be a Season 5 of Dark Winds?

Yes. There will be a fifth season of Dark Winds. Production on Season 5 has wrapped and is set to premiere sometime in 2027.

What happened in Season 5 of Dark Winds?

Season 5 will pick up where Season 4 left off – with the murder of Gordo Sena (A Martinez). Sena was Leaphorn’s friend and the sheriff of Scarborough County. Season 5 will follow the investigation of Sena’s murder.

Will there be a Season 6 of Dark Winds?

Season 5 has long been rumored to be the show’s final season but there has been no official word from AMC regarding this or if there will a sixth season.

How many episodes are there of Dark Winds? 

The first two seasons of Dark Winds had six episodes each. Seasons 3 through 5 of Dark Winds have eight episodes each, for a running total of 36 episodes.

Where does Dark Winds film?

Dark Winds films in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and its surrounding areas.

Related: Everything to Know About Netflix’s Violent New Series American Primeval

Meet the cast of Dark Winds Zahn McClarnon as Joe Leaphorn. Credit: Michael Moriatis/AMC

AMC

Zahn McClarnon as Joe Leaphorn

Zahn McClarnon is best known for his roles on Longmire, and the second seasons of both Fargo and Westworld. He is of Lakota and Irish ancestry. McClarnon will make his directorial debut in season 4 of Dark Winds.

Credit: Michael Moriatis/AMC Kiowa Gordon as Jim Chee

Gordon is best known for his role as shapeshifter Embry Call in the Twilight Saga. The German-born Gordon is of European and Hualapai, a Native tribe indigenous to Arizona. Other credits include The Red Road, Roswell, New Mexico, and Quantum Cowboys.

Jessica Matten as Bernadette Manuelito. Credit: Michael Moriatis/AMC Jessica Matten as Bernadette Manuelito

Matten is of Red River Métis and Cree heritage on her mother’s side, with British-Chinese ancestry on her father’s side. She is a direct descendant of Cuthbert Grant, the first rebel Métis leader, known for the Battle of Seven Oaks in Canada. Matten’s credits include Burden of Truth, Tribal, and Frontier.

Deanna Allison

Courtesy of AMC

Deanna Allison as Emma Leaphorn

This is Allison’s first series regular role. She previously appeared in Accused and Edge of America.

Were there any notable actors in from Season 4 of Dark Winds?

Yes! Check out who joined the cast for Season 4 of Dark Winds.

Linda Hamilton

AMC

Linda Hamilton as Barbara Sena

Hamilton made a surprise cameo appearance as Barbara Sena, the wife of Scarborough County Sheriff Gordo Sena (A Martinez). Barbara suffers from memory loss and early dementia.

Related: Linda Hamilton Reveals Her Favorite Scene from ‘Resident Alien’ (Exclusive)

Franka Potente. Michael Moriatis/AMC Franka Potente as Irene Vaggan

Potente is cast in a key guest starring role as Irene Vaggan. Potente is probably best known for her roles in Run Lola Run and Copper. Her other credits include The Bourne Supremacy, Dark Matter, and Psych.

Titus Welliver as Dominic McNair. Credit: Michael Moriatis/AMC Titus Welliver as Dominic McNair

Welliver joins the cast as McNair, a ruthless crime boss who imports and exports drugs and stolen luxury goods into and out of Los Angeles.

Chaske Spencer as Sonny. Credit: Michael Moriatis/AMC Chaske Spencer as Sonny

Charismatic and lethal, Sonny is a recruiter for a Los Angeles crime ring. He uses his charm and menace to lure young Native American men new to the city into a life of crime. Spencer is best known for playing Sam Uley in the Twilight films. His other credits include Longmire, Banshee, and Blindspot.

Isabel Deroy-Olson as Billie Tsosie. Credit: Michael Moriatis/AMC Isabel DeRoy-Olson as Billie Tsosie

DeRoy-Olson joins the cast as a series regular. Her character, Billie Tsosie, is a Navajo teenager who just wants the freedom to connect with her people outside of her boarding school. When her cousin takes her out of school, she finds herself quickly in over her head with only resourcefulness to keep her alive.

Luke Barnett as Toby Shaw

Barnett joins the cast in a recurring role as FBI Special Agent Toby Shaw. Shaw arrives in town searching for answers to a mystery involving one of his friends. While he’s loyal to the Bureau, he finds himself in deep with Leaphorn, Chee, and Manuelito.

Who is joining the cast of Dark Winds in Season 5? Paola Núñez as Luisa Alvarado

Núñez joins the cast as an investigator for the U.S. Attorney’s office with a history connected to Leaphorn. Paola Núñez‘s previous credits include Destino, Resident Evil, and The Son.

Martin Sensmeier as Terry Bai

Martin Sensmeier will play Terry Bai, a former Vietnam veteran and racetrack worker who shares a middle school past with Chee. His previous credits include 1883, The Magnificent Seven, and The Last Manhunt.

John Hoogenakker as Sheriff Mark Bishop

Hoogenakker is the new, button-downed head of the Scarborough County Sheriff’s Department who steps into jurisdictional disputes with Leaphorn. His previous credits include Teacher, Dopesick, and Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan.

Who serves as executive producer on Dark Winds?

Zahn McClarnon serves as an executive producer on the series, and he’ll also direct an episode in Season 4. Some other notable names on the executive producer roster include Robert Redford and Game of Thrones author, George R. R. Martin.

Related: The Season 3 Premiere of Dark Winds Served Up Some Interesting Cameos. Here’s Everything We Know About Them

Is there a sneak peek of Dark Winds?

AMC has yet to release footage or trailers for the new season of Dark Winds, but check out the final trailer for Season 4 below.

Check out some images from Season 4 of Dark Winds Dark WindsAMC

Franka Potente. Michael Moriatis/AMC

Zahn McClarnon, Kiowa Gordon. Michael Moriatis/AMC

Franka Potente. Michael Moriatis/AMC

Zahn McClarnon. Michael Moriatis/AMC

Kiowa Gordon, Jessica Matten. Michael Moriatis/AMC

Isabel Deroy-Olson as Billie Tsosie. Credit: Michael Moriatis/AMC

Franka Potente as Irene Vaggan. Credit: Michael Moriatis/AMC

Credit: Michael Moriatis/AMC

Courtesy of AMC

Zahn McClarnon as Joe Leaphorn, Jessica Matten as Bernadette Manuelito and Kiowa Gordon as Jim Chee. Credit: Michael Moriatis/AMC

A

Zahn McClarnon as Joe Leaphorn and Jessica Matten as Bernadette Manuelito. Credit: Michael Moriatis/AMC

Courtesy of AMC

Credit: Michael Moriatis/AMC

Kiowa Gordon as Jim Chee – Dark Winds _ Season 4, Episode 3 – Photo Credit: Michael Moriatis/AMC

Jessica Matten as Bernadette Manuelito – Dark Winds _ Season 4, Episode 3 – Photo Credit: Michael Moriatis/AMC

Courtesy of AMC

Zahn McClarnon as Joe Leaphorn and Kiowa Gordon as Jim Chee. Credit: Michael Moriatis/AMC

Zahn McClarnon as Joe Leaphorn and Jessica Matten as Bernadette Manuelito. Credit: Michael Moriatis/AMC

Chaske Spencer as Sonny. Credit: Michael Moriatis/AMC

Zahn McClarnon as Joe Leaphorn, Jessica Matten as Bernadette Manuelito and Kiowa Gordon as Jim Chee. Credit: Michael Moriatis/AMC

Zahn McClarnon as Joe Leaphorn, Jessica Matten as Bernadette Manuelito and Kiowa Gordon as Jim Chee. Photo Credit: Michael Moriatis/AMC

Titus Welliver as Dominic McNair. Credit: Michael Moriatis/AMC

1977 Country Crossover Hit, Written by Richard Leigh, Still Sounds Just as Powerful 49 Years Later

Mon, 09/14/2026 - 5:33pm

In September 1977, Loretta Lynn was still riding high on the success of her tribute album, I Remember Patsy, proving once again why she was one of country music’s biggest stars. But that month, she was also having to make room for her youngest sister, Crystal Gayle, who was climbing the charts with a country crossover hit of her own, one that would eventually become her signature song.

Released in June 1977, Gayle’s “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue” was the lead single from her fourth studio album, We Must Believe in Magic, which would become the first platinum album by a female country artist. The track achieved massive crossover success, becoming a four-week No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and climbing to No. 2 on the all-genre Billboard Hot 100.

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Beyond chart history, though, the song has a backstory that is just as compelling.

In 1977, songwriter Richard Leigh was still relatively new to the Nashville scene. He’d written three Top 10 country hits for Gayle, including “I’ll Get Over You,” her first country No. 1, but he was still looking for his next hit song. So, with “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue,” he wanted to go big.

According to American Songwriter, Leigh wrote the song with Shirley Bassey in mind to sing it. A Welsh pop singer with a powerful voice, she was already a major international star and the conduit Leigh thought could help him break out of the dry spell he was experiencing.

Related: 1964 Sean Connery Hit, With 99% on Rotten Tomatoes and a No. 1 Soundtrack, Ranked Among Greatest Thrillers

But fate had other ideas.

After the success of “I’ll Get Over You,” Leigh’s landlady, songwriter Sandy Mason Theoret, told Allen Reynolds, a friend of Leigh’s and Gayle’s producer, that the songwriter was feeling discouraged. Reynolds then visited Leigh, and the two sat around playing songs. When Leigh played him “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue” and mentioned that his publisher planned to pitch it to Bassey, Reynolds immediately wanted it for Gayle.

“Shirley Bassey my ass, I want that song!” Reynolds famously said.

Reynolds believed Gayle to be the perfect vehicle for the song. When they took it into Jack’s Tracks in Nashville on Oct. 27, 1976, the song clicked so perfectly with Gayle’s smooth vocals and Hargus “Pig” Robbins’ signature piano figure that the final record was actually captured in just one single vocal take.

“That was a first take,” Gayle once told Billboard. “I did not re-sing it. It just fell into place, beginning with Pig Robbins’ opening work on the piano. It was magic in the studio that day.”

The song arrived during a career-defining year for Gayle, who won her first CMA Award for Female Vocalist of the Year in 1977. It also earned her first—and still only—Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance, Female. Going one step further, the song also nabbed Leigh the Grammy for Best Country Song for writing it.

“I knew it was a special song,” Gayle said. “But I didn’t know just how special it was. I knew that it was going to touch a lot of people.”

The song was hardly the end of Leigh’s success. He went on to write country No. 1s including “Life’s Highway” for Steve Wariner and “Only Here for a Little While” for Billy Dean, while also co-writing “Somewhere in My Broken Heart,” recorded by Dean, and “The Greatest Man I Never Knew,” recorded by Reba McEntire.

Nearly five decades later, the appeal of “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue” is easy to understand. Its understated arrangement, memorable piano line, and intimate vocal give Gayle’s performance a quality that still feels remarkably fresh. It’s a timeless song for a timeless beauty and still sounds incredible today.

Related: 1966 Signature Song, Written in 10 Minutes, Launched a Country Queen to No. 1

People Born On These 5 Birthdays Are Most Likely Old Souls

Mon, 09/14/2026 - 5:33pm

People born on the following six birth days tend to embody old soul energy. These individuals carry wisdom, introspection, and a natural aura that feels beyond their years. These specific calendar dates are associated with people who are most likely to have lived many lifetimes: those born on February 2, August 8, November 11, October 29th, and March 27th.

LEARN MORE: Your Birth Month Describes Your Soul’s Journey

Why These Birthdays Are Connected to Old Soul Energy

Old souls aren’t about age—they’re about depth. They carry an intuitive understanding of life’s patterns, a comfort with complexity, and a wisdom that can’t be taught in a single lifetime.

In numerology and astrology, certain date combinations amplify these qualities, creating a blueprint for souls who’ve already done the inner work. The dates below all reduce to master numbers or soul-level vibrations that speak to spiritual awakening, karmic understanding, and a natural attunement to what’s hidden. If you’re born on one of these days, you likely recognize yourself in these descriptions.

Which Birthdays Are Most Likely to Be Old Souls?

Check for your birthday below.

EXPLORE: Your Birth Date Describes Your Soul’s Journey

Born on February 2nd: The Intuitive Anchor

Incarnating on the 2/2 portal, you’re here to carry the rare balanced gift of being both ethereal and grounded. Your birthday reduces to 4, the numerological digit of foundation, stability, and deep roots. While you naturally drift into abstract thought and cosmic curiosity, the 4 anchors you down, creating a soul who understands both the bigger picture and how to actually build it. You’re the visionary who knows how to manifest dreams into tangible reality. You’ve likely spent lifetimes learning the bridge between spirit and matter—and in this one, you’re the natural advisor who’s thought through both the metaphysics and the logistics. People come to you because you don’t just aimlessly dream; you know how to actualize higher visions.

Born on August 8th: The Humble Philosopher

Born on 8/8, you hold magical healing. You were born on the Lion’s Gate Portal, a time of auspicious luck. Further, your birthday reduces to 7, the numerological digit of spiritual awakening and inner wisdom. You’re naturally commanding and magnetic, born under the radiant, expressive Fire sign Leo. However, you tend to turn that outward shine inward, making you a soul who questions your own authority, seeks truth, and carries an intuitive gravitas. You’re the performer who’s also the philosopher, the confident leader who still humbly knows that they’re still learning. There’s a grounded quality that emanates from your aura of ancient wisdom in a bold package.

Born on November 11th: The Prophetic Healer

November 11th is a double master number (11 in the month, 11 in the day)—a rare convergence of spiritual awakening and intuitive power. This date already probes the depths of human experience; paired with 11/11, this becomes an almost prophetic influence. People born on November 11th often feel the weight of knowing too much. As a soulful Water sign, their intuition never lies, even when it’s inconvenient to what they wish to be true. They’re natural healers, therapists, or mystics—rarely by choice, but by the sheer force of their perception. This specific Scorpio carries old soul energy that can often feel almost uncomfortable in its ability to bring the mysterious elements of life into reality.

Born on October 29th: The Occult Seeker

Born on October 29, you’re drawn to what’s hidden, what’s forbidden, what’s real beneath the surface. Your birthday reduces to 11, the numerological digit of spiritual awakening and intuition. You’re naturally pulled toward transformation and secret knowledge. You’re fascinated by what’s concealed. Metaphysics, psychology, or any field that probes what’s hidden grabs your interest. As a natural researcher of the soul, this birthday is destined to be a detective of the unseen. There’s an intensity here—an old soul who knows they’re working with deep magic, who’s comfortable in the shadows because they understand what lives there. People trust you with their secrets because you don’t judge the darkness.

Born on March 27th: The Weary Warrior-Poet

This birthday is an initiator and a fighter, born under the bold sign of Aries. Often, they are associated with the archetype of the warrior-poet, the one who fights for ideas and beauty. March 27th reduces to 12, which reduces further to 3, the number of creativity and communication. This comic combination creates old souls who feel they’ve survived many battles, carrying the timeless wisdom of past struggles into present action. There’s a weary strength here, a knowing that comes from ancient experience.

UP NEXT:

Dolly Parton’s $30 Floral Ceramic Pumpkin Brings the Country Icon’s Love of Fall Straight to Your Home

Mon, 09/14/2026 - 5:30pm

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Dolly Parton knew how to do fall. Every year, her beloved Dollywood Harvest Festival transforms the theme park into a celebration of autumn in the Smoky Mountains. Thousands of flowers in fiery reds, yellows, and oranges mingle with gourds and greenery, while country and bluegrass music fills the park and seasonal treats put apple and pumpkin pie on the table.

If a trip to Tennessee isn’t on the fall calendar, however, there’s another way to bring that colorful harvest home. The Dolly Parton Cream Ceramic Pumpkin is $30 at Walmart, combining the season’s signature gourd with charming accents associated with the queen of country. You can put it out now and keep it around straight through Thanksgiving, whether it lands on a mantel, dining table, entryway console, or kitchen counter.

Dolly Parton Cream Ceramic Pumpkin, $30 at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Instead of the expected bright autumn colors, the ceramic pumpkin has a creamy white base covered in an intricate pattern of scrolling brown vines, leaves, and flowers. The botanical design winds around the pumpkin’s deeply grooved silhouette, with some flowers raised slightly from the surface for added dimension. A glossy dark brown stem finishes the top, giving the whole piece a warm, vintage-inspired look.

But the detail that really gives this pumpkin its Dolly Parton personality is the addition of butterflies. A large sculpted butterfly rests beside the stem, with etched patterns across its wings that make it look almost hand-carved. Smaller butterflies are also scattered among the flowers and vines, so there’s something new to notice depending on which direction the pumpkin is facing. It’s a sweet nod to a motif that’s long been associated with Dolly.

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Measuring about 8 inches wide and 7 inches tall from base to stem, it’s substantial enough to make an impact on its own while staying compact enough to tuck into an existing arrangement. Set it in the middle of a dining table surrounded by taper candles, greenery, pinecones, or smaller gourds for an easy centerpiece, or place it prominently on the mantel among framed photos and candlesticks. Since it’s made from ceramic, you don’t have to worry about it wilting, rotting, or needing replacement halfway through the season. 

Related: Dolly Parton’s Stoneware Cake Stand Is a ‘Beautiful’ Way to Serve After-School Snacks

Fall decorating is more fun with a little country charm. Shop the Dolly Parton Cream Ceramic Pumpkin for $30 at Walmart!

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Desi Arnaz's Paprika Steak Recipe Is the Epitome of Old-School Comfort Food

Mon, 09/14/2026 - 5:18pm

Desi Arnaz may be best remembered as Ricky Ricardo, the charismatic bandleader constantly trying to keep up with Lucy’s latest scheme on I Love Lucy, but his real-life story was far more layered than the sitcom role that made him a household name.

Born into a well-connected family in Cuba in 1917, Arnaz saw his life change dramatically after political unrest forced his family to flee to the United States when he was a teenager. He arrived with little money, learned to make his own way and soon found a career in music, bringing the sounds of the conga and Latin dance orchestras to American audiences.

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His career took another turn when he met Lucille Ball, setting off one of television’s most famous love stories and creative partnerships. Together, the pair launched I Love Lucy in 1951, with Arnaz stepping into the role of Ricky while quietly transforming the business behind the scenes.

As co-founder of Desilu Productions, he helped popularize the multi-camera sitcom format, filming before live audiences and the idea of keeping shows on film for future reruns. Arnaz was funny, ambitious, imperfect and innovative—and his impact on television reaches far beyond the famous “Lucy, you’ve got some ’splainin’ to do” line.

Despite Desi Arnaz’s lasting impact both on and off screen, he was also known to enjoy his time in the kitchen. One recipe he and Lucille Ball reportedly loved was Paprika Steak, a simple but flavorful dish made with everyday pantry staples. The recipe turns an ordinary steak dinner into something a little more special, thanks to its rich, savory, paprika-based flavor. So, when I came across it, I knew I had to give it a try and find out whether this old-school dinner was really as good as it sounded. Here’s my review of Desi Arnaz’s paprika steak recipe, plus tips for making it even better.

Ingredients for Desi Arnaz’s Paprika Steak

Courtesy Choya Johnson

For this flavorful steak recipe, you’ll need bacon and a little of the rendered bacon fat, along with green peppers, green onions and fresh tomatoes. The remaining ingredients include olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce, garlic powder, paprika, chili peppers, steaks and soy sauce.

How to Make Desi Arnaz’s Paprika Steak

Courtesy Choya Johnson

The recipe begins by crisping up bacon, then using some of the rendered bacon fat to sauté green peppers, green onions and fresh tomatoes. From there, you’ll add a little olive oil, Worcestershire sauce and Tabasco sauce—though Arnaz makes it clear that a tiny amount goes a long way, calling for just a “teensy” or “poquito” splash. Garlic powder, paprika and chili peppers bring even more bold flavor to the mix, while the steaks get a quick soak in soy sauce before cooking.

Related: I Made One of Kenny Rogers’ Forgotten Recipes, and It Deserves a Comeback for This Simple Reason

What I Thought of Desi Arnaz’s Paprika Steak

Courtesy Choya Johnson

This steak recipe differed from the methods I usually use, so I found it somewhat challenging to prepare. Because the instructions lacked some details, I had to make several adjustments and rely on my own cooking instincts throughout the process. The recipe did not clearly explain certain steps, and I was unable to find additional guidance online. It also failed to specify ingredient amounts, making it difficult to achieve a balanced result. In terms of flavor, the finished steak was more acidic than I expected and somewhat bland overall.

With clearer measurements, more thorough directions and a few seasoning adjustments, this recipe could be much easier to follow and more flavorful. But, of course, taste is subjective to what each person prefers, so this may be exactly what you need without the ingredients I added in.

4 Tips for Making Desi Arnaz’s Paprika Steak

Courtesy Choya Johnson

Before you make this steak yourself, keep these four prep tips in mind.

1. Allow the steak to become room temp before cooking and adding seasoning.

Allowing steak to come closer to room temperature before cooking can help it cook more evenly, especially with thicker cuts. Take the steak out of the refrigerator about 20 to 30 minutes before cooking, keeping it covered and out of direct heat.

2. Use a quality ribeye steak.

Use a quality ribeye steak for the best results. Ribeye is naturally rich and flavorful because of its marbling, or the small streaks of fat throughout the meat. As it cooks, this fat renders and helps keep the steak tender, juicy and full of flavor.

3. Allow the steak to marinate for about 20 minutes.

Plan ahead and allow the steak to marinate for about 20 minutes before cooking. This short marinating time gives the salt, seasonings, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce and other flavors an opportunity to coat and lightly flavor the meat without overwhelming the natural richness of the ribeye.

4. Use a little sugar to help with the acidity.

Use a small amount of sugar to balance the marinade’s acidity. Ingredients such as soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce and Tabasco can create a sharp, tangy flavor, so a little sugar helps round out those notes without making the steak taste sweet.

Final Thoughts

This recipe was not that easy to follow because the preparation instructions were vague and left several important details unclear. As a result, it was easy to become confused about how to proceed. What I did, however, was adjust the recipe to suit my own taste. I used 1 tablespoon each of salt, pepper, brown sugar, garlic powder and paprika. I also added 2 tablespoons each of soy sauce, olive oil and Worcestershire sauce, along with a dash of Tabasco for extra heat.

For anyone else looking to try this recipe, it’s a great base to build off of to suit your own tastebuds. However you choose to enjoy it though, it’s definitely worth a try!

Related: I Tried Princess Diana’s Favorite Stuffed Bell Peppers—and They Weren’t What I Expected

T.J. Maxx Is Selling an Easy-Recipe Cookbook for Trader Joe's Fans—and It's Only $15

Mon, 09/14/2026 - 5:15pm

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Trader Joe’s has a special talent for turning ordinary grocery runs into full-blown internet events. Its cult-favorite products routinely inspire TikTok recipes, clever meal hacks and passionate fan recommendations, with everything from frozen dumplings to sauces and seasonings finding their viral moment.

And now, there’s a cookbook for anyone who has ever stared into their Trader Joe’s haul and thought, “OK, what am I actually supposed to make with all of this?”

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A recent T.J. Maxx find, the Quick Prep Cooking Using Ingredients From Trader Joe’s Cookbook, feels practically tailor-made for Trader Joe’s devoted fan base. Listed at $14.99, this cookbook is an especially tempting addition to the cart for shoppers who like their meals easy, flavorful and relatively fuss-free.

Quick Prep Cooking Using Ingredients From Trader Joe’s by Jordan Zelesnick, $14.99 at T.J. Maxx

T.J. Maxx

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Written by Jordan Zelesnick, the softcover cookbook features 60 meals made with ingredients from Trader Joe’s. The whole premise is pretty straightforward—spend less time stewing over what to make and prepping meals in the kitchen, and more time actually eating and enjoying it at the same time.

That concept fits nicely with the way Trader Joe’s fans already shop. It’s become known for convenient ingredients that can do plenty of heavy lifting in a recipe, from frozen foods and prepared sauces to its signature snacks and condiments.

Related: Marshalls’ $25 Faux Berry Wreath Is the Cozy Fall Touch Your Front Door Needs

And the recipes hardly sound boring. It features everything from Gochujang Salmon Burgers and Crispy Street Corn Smashed Potatoes to Chicken Shawarma Hummus Bowls, Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers and Crispy Air Fryer Ravioli.

It also just makes sense in the age of the viral Trader Joe’s recipe. The grocery chain’s ingredients have become building blocks for social media-friendly meals, with recent trendy recipes that combine a handful of TJ’s staples into something that looks considerably more complicated than it actually is.

So, if your Trader Joe’s shopping bag tends to contain a chaotic-but-delicious assortment of frozen favorites, sauces, snacks and ingredients you bought, this cookbook could provide a little direction.

Related: Aldi’s $3 Dish Drying Mats Will Bring Fall Style to Your Countertops

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