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Make a Whimsical Statement With These Dazzling Frog Jewelry Pieces, Now Under $200

Fri, 05/08/2026 - 3:42pm

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

Parade and ShopHQ are both owned by the same parent company. Featured products are selected independently by the editorial team at Parade.

Frogs are known for their powerful symbolism. In Chinese and Japanese culture, they symbolize good fortune and wealth. They’re also deemed symbols of growth and rebirth. So, wearing one as a jewelry piece is like adding a little luck to your day. Frog jewelry also leans into the whimsical TikTokcottagecore craze, which extends to nature-inspired accessories. We scoured ShopHQ to find four super cute, luxefrog jewelry pieces, from earrings, to a ring, and necklaces, to tickle any frog lover's fancy, and they’re all on sale for under $200. Plus, through May 11, you can save 20% off all Jewelry orders $99 and over sitewide, so grab one before the weekend is out if you’re eyeing one — or all four. 

Belle Artique Sterling Silver Green Agate Multi-Gem Frog Ring, $100 (was $170) at ShopHQ

Courtesy of ShopHQ

Save 20% off all jewelry orders sitewide $99+ from May 8-11. 

The Belle Artique Sterling Silver Green Agate & Multi Gem Frog Ring is a stunner, and it's on sale for $100. The ring has a shimmering chrome diopside and white topaz-encrusted frog that psalms a gorgeous bold round green agate stone. The gem measures less than an inch tall and wide, and its sterling silver and rhodium plating gives it a bright white gold-tone finish and helps resist tarnishing. The weight of the overall ring is 5.1 grams, so it has a statement look without feeling too heavy, which makes it perfect for everyday wear.

Belle Artique Sterling Silver Green Agate Multi-Gem Frog Pendant, $100 (was $170) at ShopHQ

Courtesy of ShopHQ

Nature-inspired jewelry lovers will appreciate the playful Belle Artique Sterling Silver Green Agate & Multi Gem Frog Pendant, and it’s on sale for $120. Similar to the frog ring, the pendant features a sparkling chrome diopside and white topaz-accented frog holding a bold green onyx centerpiece that is about 1.2 inches long, .9 inches wide, and .3 inches tall. This one also has a sterling silver and rhodium plating that gives it an eye-catching look. The necklace comes with an 18-inch chain that has a secure spring ring clasp, which makes it easy to wear the pendant with other necklaces. Keep in mind that this is a clearance item, which makes it final sale.

Related: These Stunning Gold Diamond Stud Earrings Are Over $500 Off

Belle Artique Sterling Silver Chrome Diopside & Ruby Pavé Frog Pendant with Chain, $185 (was $310) at ShopHQ

Courtesy of ShopHQ

If you love quirky jewelry that still feels elevated, the Belle Artique Sterling Silver Chrome Diopside & Ruby Pave Frog Pendant with Chain is the statement maker you’re looking for, and it’s on sale for $185. It’s crafted from polished sterling silver with rhodium plating, and has a dazzling frog design that is covered in 80 vibrant chrome diopside stones with ruby pavé accents that add a rich, colorful sparkle. The nature-inspired pendant measures about .9 inches long, .9 inches wide, and .3 inches tall, and weighs 5.1 grams. It has a head-turning look but is still lightweight enough to wear every day. It hangs from an included 18-inch chain that has a secure spring ring clasp, and the pendant is removable for versatile styling. 

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These frog-themed necklaces, rings, and earrings are the perfect gift for yourself or for a nature-obsessed loved one, and you can wear them all during the day or at night. Grab one (or two) for yourself while they’re under $200! 

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

Caitlin Clark Adds Another Major Milestone Ahead of the 2026 WNBA Season

Fri, 05/08/2026 - 3:41pm

The 2026 WNBA season begins on May 8, and Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark is already making headlines and sparking controversy. Entering her third season in the league, Clark has been named the WNBA’s most marketable player. The WNBA boasts more star power than ever before, including Paige Bueckers, A’ja Wilson, and rookie Azzi Fudd, but when it comes to athletes who drive the league’s visibility, Clark leads the roster.

In the just-published WNBA Marketability Index, Caitlin Clark leads the list. This isn’t just a ranking of an athlete’s ability to grab headlines; the list measures influence. The study goes beyond the box scores and ranks players based on a combination of social media influence, media mentions, endorsements, and overall fan engagement.

Clark ranks No. 1 overall with perfect scores in search, brand power, and visibility, a rare combination that has reportedly led to more than $16 million per year in endorsements. Arguably one of the most recognizable names and faces in professional sports, Caitlin Clark’s influence spans beyond sports and into the pop culture zeitgeist. Appearing everywhere from Fashion Week to SNL, Caitlin Clark is more than an athlete. She’s a full-on celebrity.

Following closely behind, Atlanta Dream star Angel Reese ranks No. 2 with a perfect score in social influence, making her one of the sports world’s most influential social media stars.

Caitlin Clark’s WNBA Marketability Sparks Fan Debate View this post on Instagram

Las Vegas Aces star A’ja Wilson ranks fourth, underscoring the widening gap between performance and commercial attention. Meanwhile, rookies like Flau’jae Johnson and Azzi Fudd enter the league with stronger marketability than many established players thanks to the impact of the NIL era.

Fans were quick to take to social media, divided over Caitlin Clark’s newly minted status as the most marketable WNBA athlete. Reactions online ranged from calling Clark “overrated” to others attributing the WNBA’s massive growth in popularity to the former Iowa Hawkeyes star.

“But what we are not going to do is act like Caitlin Clark isn’t the biggest reason for the WNBA’s massive growth in popularity, the new CBA, and media rights deals. Teams had to move to NBA venues to accommodate CC fans. The Fever was heavily cheered for even on road games,” shared one emphatic fan.

Another added, “Like it or not, CC opened the WNBA up for casual fans.”

WNBA Popularity and Caitlin Clark’s Growing Influence @caitlin.clark22

From there? 😏 Now show me where you shoot from!! 😮‍💨🔥#FromAnywhere 

♬ original sound - Caitlin Clark

The continued debate surrounding Caitlin Clark’s marketability is, in and of itself, an indicator of the WNBA’s surging popularity and its players’ growing influence. Thanks in part to NIL deals in college and female athletes embracing social media to deepen their recognizability and connection to fans, men are no longer the only athletes marketable outside their sport.

New York Liberty star Sabrina Ionescu’sNike Sabrina is one of the brand’s most popular women’s shoes, and Dallas Wings star Paige Bueckers has more than 4 million TikTok followers who follow her every dance move, helping to make them household names.

Professional sports are nothing without controversy and debate. Fans may be conflicted over Caitlin Clark’s star status, but the fact that the debate continues is a sign of the WNBA’s expanding influence and pop culture relevance. This isn’t conflict; it’s progress, whether or not you agree that Caitlin Clark is the WNBA’s most marketable star.

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Librarians Say These 11 ‘Unforgettable’ Books Are Perfect for Fans of ‘Remarkably Bright Creatures'

Fri, 05/08/2026 - 3:30pm

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It's bittersweet to finish a great book, because the story you loved reading is over. But you can take solace in knowing that for every life-changing book out there, there are a ton of read-alike options that explore similar themes, carry on similar tones and follow characters that will remind you of the ones you fell in love with in the first place. If you finished Shelby Van Pelt's 2022 debut novel, Remarkably Bright Creatures, and want more, we have the books you need to read next, according to the five librarians Parade spoke with.

Libby librarian Claire Weibel describes Remarkably Bright Creatures as a "gentle read" that "highlights human connection." So it's no surprise that it became popular enough to warrant a Netflix film adaptation starring the inimitable Sally Field as the leading protagonist, Tova. Whether you just finished the novel ahead of the May 8 movie release, or you read the book when it first made a splash on Jenna Bush-Hager's "Read With Jenna" book club in 2022, it's understandable if you're left wanting more than the movie alone can deliver.

If you want to dive into similar worlds with equally engaging characters and storylines, these librarians have you covered with 11 books likeRemarkably Bright Creatures to check out ASAP.

Related: 11 Books Like ‘Margo’s Got Money Troubles,’ According to Librarians

What Is 'Remarkably Bright Creatures' by Shelby Van Pelt?

Described as "a character-driven contemporary fiction story" by Weibel, Remarkably Bright Creatures follows the unlikely bond between Tova, a widowed night cleaner at an aquarium; Cameron, a directionless new aquarium employee; and a large Pacific octopus named Marcellus.

Related: 50 Books Every Woman Over 50 Should Have on Her Bookshelf, According to Librarians

What Should I Read if I Loved 'Remarkably Bright Creatures'?

Shoshana Ginsburg, a children’s librarian in DC, says that you can expand on the unique animal-human bond of the novel by following it up with something similar.

"A couple years ago, I read several novels about people adopting chimps and treating them like human children," she says. In that vein, she recommends A Beautiful Truth by Colin McAdam, We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves by Karen Joy Fowler and We Love You, Charlie Freemanby Kaitlyn Greenidge.

"They all take different perspectives on that common topic, and all three books touch on human-animal relations, the nature of family and grief," Ginsburg shares.

Alisha Helms, the Readers’ Advisory Associate at the Kansas City Public Library, says that readers who loved Remarkably Bright Creatures can also explore "books with a little slice of life, but with a little bit of whimsy too" and fiction reads that focus on found families. A common recommendation from Helms and several other librarians was the works of Swedish author Fredrik Backman.

"Backman’s moving and thought-provoking novels are character-centric, often featuring quirky characters with rich inner lives," says Weibel. "His stories are full of empathy and emphasize the need for human connection, and while his stories often handle heavy topics, they have plenty of heart and humor, too."

Helms and Weibel suggest starting with A Man Called Ove, which is about a curmudgeonly man who is forced by his chatty new neighbors to open up.

"Like Remarkably Bright Creatures, both books have that uncommon narrator who you can't help but fall in love with," explains Helms.

Weibel also likes Backman's book Anxious People, about a group of unlikely hostages at an apartment open house. And Rose Waldman, Library Supervisor at the Menlo Park Public Library, suggests Britt-Marie Was Here, which follows a fussy busybody after she leaves her cheating husband. Beyond this author, though, are 11 other books you'll also appreciate as fans of Remarkably Bright Creatures.

Related: Librarians Say These 10 ‘Hidden Gem’ Books Are the Funniest Things You’ll Read All Year

11 Books Like 'Remarkably Bright Creatures,' According to Librarians1. 'Death Valley' by Melissa Broder

Amazon

Kathleen Reidy, reference librarian at Winchester Public Library in Massachusetts and debut author of Engineering a Love Story, likes Broder's novel for its "unlikely relationship—in this case, with a cactus."

The book follows a woman who, while escaping a cloud of family illness, finds a door in a California cactus. She steps inside and takes a hilarious but poignant journey.

2. 'Yellow' by Amy Pence

Amazon

Reidy calls this book "an intriguing new, speculative novel." It follows a 12-year-old girl in the '70s who forms a bond with yellow slime mold growing in her backyard.

3. 'Bear' by Julia Phillips

Amazon

Reidy says this book is "less whimsical than Remarkably Bright Creatures," but she recommends it because "the two novels share a Pacific-Northwest setting, and both feature intense relationships with animals."

In this case, the book follows two sisters who live off the coast of Washington. When a mysterious bear shows up near their home, it enchants one sister and terrifies the other—testing the strength of their sisterhood.

4. 'The Wedding People' by Alison Espach

Amazon

If part of what drew you to Remarkably Bright Creatures was Tova's navigation of widowhood, you may enjoy The Wedding People. It follows the grieving Phoebe Stone as she accidentally crashes a decadent wedding weekend.

"As a widow myself, I found The Wedding People... to have a remarkably relatable way of explaining some of the unexpected emotional impacts of widowerhood, while also being a compelling character study and unputdownable story," says Ginsburg.

5.'The Soul of an Octopus: A Surprising Exploration into the Wonder of Consciousness' by Sy Montgomery 

Amazon

Helms says, "If you want a real-life Tova," you need to read this memoir.

"Montgomery talks about hanging out at an aquarium, getting to touch octopuses and also learning to scuba dive and swim with them," she adds.

6. 'Sakura' by Kanako Nishi, translated by Allison Markin Powell

Amazon

"If the human-animal bond is what grabbed you in Remarkably Bright Creatures, check out Sakura," suggests Weibel. It follows Kaoru, who gets help from his family's dog as he navigates a reunion with his estranged family. Weibel calls the book a "reflective exploration of grief."

7. 'The Reading List' by Sara Nisha Adams

Amazon

Weibel says readers of Remarkably Bright Creatures will enjoy this novel's similar themes: "human connection, community building, multigenerational stories and unlikely friendships."

Taking place at a local library, a bond forms between lonely widower Mukesh and teenager Aleisha as they work their way through a mysterious list of books. Weibel says the "feel-good" story will leave readers with "a sense of hope."

8. 'Nothing to See Here' by Kevin Wilson

Amazon

Weibel likes this "offbeat novel" for its "flawed yet relatable characters who build a chosen family."

In the story, former boarding school friends Lillian and Madison reunite when Lillian agrees to be the caretaker for Madison's troubled stepkids.

9. 'Run for the Hills' by Kevin Wilson

Amazon

Waldman recommends this book, also from the author of Nothing to See Here. It follows Madeline after she meets her half-brother Rube, and they take a road trip to learn more about their father. As a bonus, the Library Supervisor notes that the audiobook version "is narrated by Marin Ireland, who co-narrates the audiobook for Remarkably Bring Creatures."

10. 'Crow Talk' by Eileen Garvin

Amazon

Waldman suggests "that readers think about what it is that they like about [Remarkably Bright Creatures]" and find something with "similar tone or themes." If you resonated with the grief and found family aspect of Remarkably Bright Creatures, she says you can try Crow Talk next. It follows a group of lost souls who bond over rescuing an injured baby crow.

11. 'An Immense World: How Animal Senses Reveal the Hidden World Around Us' by Ed Yong

Amazon

If what drew you to Remarkably Bright Creatures was the "animal perspective" from Marcellus the octopus, Waldman says she also enjoyed diving into this narrative nonfiction book. It explores how animals use their senses to perceive the world.

Up Next:

Related: 27 Books Like 'ACOTAR,' According to Librarians

Sources:

Target's $119 Outdoor Storage Cabinet Is 'Sleek,' 'Sturdy,' and Perfect for Small Yards

Fri, 05/08/2026 - 3:15pm

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

If you're looking for a simple way to declutter your yard or deck ahead of summer, Target's latest storage deal can help you get organized without overcrowding your space. The Acoinel Diamond-Shaped Outdoor Cabinet is now on sale for just $119, down from $199, and it offers plenty of room to stash tools, gardening supplies, pet gear, and more. 

At 15 inches wide, 34 inches high, and 34 inches deep, the cabinet is compact enough to fit in small yards, decks, entryways, and other tight spaces while still providing plenty of space to stow outdoor essentials. It comes in two colors, black and white, and you can also shop it in a one-shelf option at $149. 

Acoinel Diamond-Shaped Outdoor Cabinet, $119 (was $199) at Target

Courtesy of Target

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Made of marine-grade waterproof resin, the Acoinel cabinet is designed to stand up to humidity, rust, and saltwater corrosion, making it ideal for oceanside homes or muggy climates. Its open design holds seed packets, mail, gardening gloves and tools, and more, while the front-swinging door opens up 110 degrees for easy access. A magnetic closure helps keep the items safe and secure, while the black geometric-patterned finish adds a sleek and elegant look to any outdoor space. 

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

One five-star reviewer called the cabinet "sturdy, stylish, and weatherproof." They went on to add, "It looks sleek and modern in black," and noted that "the size is just right for storing all my outdoor essentials like brooms, cleaning supplies, and small trash bins."

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With its impressive storage capacity, super sturdy construction, and a 40% discount, this outdoor cabinet is a worthwhile addition to decks, patios, porches, and backyards. Grab one while it's still on sale for under $120 at Walmart.

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

Dollar General Is Selling a $2 Glass That Looks Strikingly Similar to a Best-Selling Crate & Barrel Style Nearly 6x the Price

Fri, 05/08/2026 - 3:05pm

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

Finding just the right everyday drinking glasses can be trickier than it sounds. I mean, sure, a glass is a glass, right? If it holds liquid without leaking, shouldn't that be enough? Well, it could be, but I'm not looking for good enough; I'm looking for, "Ooh, this is cute and feels special." The heart wants what it wants.

The glasses need to be something that doesn't feel too precious, like they could break if you set them down on the table too abruptly. But if they have a little vintage appeal, that could certainly work. And I'm always looking for something taller than, say, a juice glass, because I don't want to refill my water every five minutes. And I found just the thing at Dollar General.

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Clear Textured Glass - 12 Ounces, $2 at Dollar General

Dollar General

For just $2 a pop at Dollar General, the Clear Textured Glass is one of those simple little finds that fits the bill of everything I'm looking for in everyday drinkware. It holds 12 ounces, so it's great for all of your favorite beverages, from water and iced tea to juice or your go-to soda. The textured design gives it a nicer grip while also making it look a little more elevated than your average glass. But then the clear nature of it keeps things classic and lets your drink shine, while still feeling sturdy.

Related: Aldi Is Selling a Pretty Washable Rug That Adds Boho Vibes to Any Outdoor Space

Dollar General's textured glasses also just so happen to look so much like an offering at Crate & Barrel, you'll think you're seeing double. Just take a look at C&B's Alma drinkware line, particularly the Alma 10-ounce Highball Glass, which retails for $11.95 each. It has the same pretty textured finish in clear glass, holds two ounces less liquid, and costs nearly six times more. Make it make sense!

Because, yes, you could buy six of Dollar General's Clear Textured Glasses for just five cents more than one single Crate & Barrel glass that looks the same. This is a wild world we all live in.

Dollar General has so many pretty home finds right now, like a vintage-looking embossed glass pitcher from country star Holly Williams' line. There's also a whimsical boho throw rug that will make your space feel colorful and cozy in the best way. Because who doesn't love decorating on a budget? Answer: no one.

Related: Dollar Tree's Solar Lights Are the Ultimate $1.50 Backyard Upgrade

Iconic '90s Actress, 68, Flaunts Ageless Appearance in Stunning Sheer Mini Dress Outfit

Fri, 05/08/2026 - 3:00pm

Sharon Stone stepped out flaunting her ageless appearance for a recent public outing, and the actress is proving that age is nothing but a number.

While visiting Jimmy Kimmel Live! on Thursday, May 7, the Basic Instinct actress, 68, chose a bold ensemble: a form-fitting, sheer green mini dress, confidently showing off her svelte figure and slim legs. She paired the dress with an oversized beige blazer, bringing a chic touch to an otherwise simple outfit.

Finishing off the look, the Casino star paired the choice with fishnet stockings and patent leather pointed-toe slingback pumps. For accessories, she added large gold earrings, while her beauty look complemented her attire: blonde hair worn neatly combed back with bronzy makeup, rosy blush, and mauve pink-colored lipstick.

In photos shared via Instagram from the night, Stone posed with the late-night show host, Jimmy Fallon, as well as for other solo shots where she smiled for the camera. The Total Recall actress reported having "the best time" on the broadcast in the caption of her social media post.

View this post on Instagram

Fans flew into the comments section with praise for the enduring screen star.

"You look absolutely fabulous 😍," one wrote, in part, while another raved, "Girl yes!!!!!!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️."

"Wow Sharon🙌😍 You look amazing 😃," a third complimented, while a fourth added, "You're stunning!!"

More enamored commenters dropped things like, "Chic chic chic! And serving the famous legs 💘," "Seeing you glow like this is everything! Glad you had a blast✨️," "you're such an inspiration sharon, I love you so bad! I love how authentic you are and how damn badass you are!! You're also absolutely beautiful!!!❤️," and "Best legs in Hollywood hands down 😍."

On Jimmy Kimmel Live!, the actress talked online dating, getting catfished, being on Michelle Obama’s podcast, Stevie Wonder telling her she's beautiful, being in Season 3 of Euphoria, working with young actors, and more.

"Wow! She is still so gorgeous at 68!" one YouTube viewer penned.

Check out a clip below:

Next, Reese Witherspoon Names May Book Club Pick: 'Too Good Not to' Share

Who Won ‘Jeopardy’ Today? (May 8, 2026) Plus, the Final Jeopardy Answer

Fri, 05/08/2026 - 3:00pm

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

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

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Who won Jeopardy today?Tristan Williams

And we have a three-day champion! Tristan Williams won his third consecutive game, earning $22,799 on Friday despite missing Final Jeopardy, bringing his 3-day total to $61,199

Who are the Jeopardy contestants today?Bill Bogan

Bill Bogan is a research administration specialist from Lafayette, Indiana.

Tristan Williams

Tristan Williams is a data scientist originally from Lincoln, Nebraska.

Natalie Oyler-Lusco

Natalie Oyler-Lusco is a marketing professional from Baltimore, Maryland.

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

What was Final Jeopardy today?

Final Jeopardy today was in the category "ENERGY."

The clue: "The first power plant using this type of energy was built in Italy, at a site thought to have inspired Dante.'"

The answer: What is geothermal?

Williams had a solid game, finding all three Daily Doubles and getting them all correct, allowing him to seize control of the game early and walk into Final Jeopardy with a runaway lead of $26,400, more than double Bogan’s second-place total of $10,200. While Bogan was the only one to get Final Jeopardy right, Williams wagered strategically, so even with a wrong answer, his loss of $3,601 kept him at a total score of $22,799, well above Bogan’s maximum possible score of $20,400. Bogan wagered $3,600, which brought him to a final total of $13,800, not enough to overtake Williams' lead. Meanwhile, Oyler-Lusco wagered nearly her entire $3,200 winning, answered wrong, and finished with a dollar. 

Williams will return on Monday for his shot at game number four.

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

Related: Where Jamie Ding Ranks Among ‘Jeopardy!’s Top 10 All-Time Winners

When is Jeopardy on next?

Jeopardy! will come back on Monday, May 11, with a new episode. Check your local listings to find out when to watch

Where is Jeopardy streaming?

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

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

Beloved '90s Sitcom Star, 68, Stuns in Fitted Lace Gown at Spring Gala in NYC

Fri, 05/08/2026 - 2:56pm

Beloved '90s star of The Nanny, Fran Drescher, 68, is out proving age ain't nothing but a number again. The actress continues her recent head-turning tour across red carpets, stepping out last night to support the New York City Ballet.

Drescher was definitely not to be missed at the New York City Ballet’s 2026 Spring Gala, wearing a gorgeous form-fitting, head-to-toe black lace gown. She appeared at the event with her bestie ex-husband Peter Marc Jacobson.

Drescher took to Instagram to share about her evening at the Lincoln Center in NYC.

"What a night of music, dance & NY glitterati!" Drescher wrote. "Mick Jagger was the honorary Chair and came on stage with Jimmy Fallon and both were cheeky and funny and delightful!"

Both Drescher and Jagger served together on the gala's Host Committee this year.

Related: '80s Star Lisa Bonet, 58, Steps Out Rocking Long Grey Locks

In her typical fearless style, Drescher also took a moment in her Instagram post to get into a good story about sharing a joint with Jagger in back in the early 2000s:

"I got to tell Mick how 20 yrs ago i was invited to Jerry Hall’s 50th in London and was seated at the children’s table being a last minute invite when it became known I was in town," she writes. "Mick came over and sat with us for a bit. He pulled out a rolled joint that was cut with tobacco, as the English do, I had already quit smoking but thought to myself, I am not going to miss this moment to share a reefer with Mick as he passed me the J!"

Take in all the glory that is Fran Drescher's look at New York City Ballet’s 2026 Spring Gala:

Photo by XNY/Star Max on Getty Images

Photo by Raymond Hall on Getty Images

Here's everything Drescher shared about the event on her personal Instagram:

View this post on Instagram

Fran Drescher shows up with her vibrant, always-fresh energy:

View this post on Instagram

Drescher continues to lead her Cancer Schmancer health organization (she's a celebrated uterine cancer survivor herself!) and is serving her second term as president of the SAG-AFTRA union. She starred brilliantly in the 2026 film Marty Supreme, alongside actor Timothée Chalamet, who recently landed himself in hot water when he said "no one cares about" ballet and opera.

"You live, you learn," Drescher said in response to Chalamet's comments at the time. "Even though he may have come across a bit cavalier—in reality, I think that he has a great respect and regard for the arts."

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‘Ginny & Georgia’ Scene Hit Brianne Howey Hard as a New Mom: 'Totally Broke My Heart'

Fri, 05/08/2026 - 2:56pm

Netflix's hit drama Ginny & Georgia had a brutal third season, from Georgia's legal battle to Gil turning his violence toward Ginny, but the single most emotional scene in the whole season, if not the whole show, came when both Ginny and Austin were taken from Georgia's custody—and Georgia actress Brianne Howey's real-life motherhood made the scene hit so much harder.

"It was heavy; it was," Howey said of the season. "We know the broad strokes of what's going to happen prior to shooting each season. We know what we're walking into, but we don't know the fine details and exactly how each character gets where and why until we read the scripts, which is a little bit before shooting. So, we are on the journey along with the audience."

About the scene in which Georgia loses custody of her children, she said, "My daughter turned one when we were shooting that season, and it totally broke my heart. But also, the writing is so beautiful, and it's so heartbreaking. They do such a beautiful job, and it's so earned. It doesn't feel gratuitous for no reason. And that's what I'm so grateful to our creative team for."

Howey also reflected on what it meant to be postpartum while filming that scene.

"It added some extra layers where it just really...I mean, being a mom is hard to put into words, and we still have a long way to go. My daughter is almost three, so it still in some ways feels like the beginning, of course, and I still have so much to learn. But it definitely added a lot of layers to it," she explained.

Howey spoke about how motherhood has deepened her feelings towards her costars, Antonia Gentry and Diesel La Torraca, who play her on-screen children Ginny and Austin, as well.

"I already loved Toni and Diesel so much, but then, yeah, now having my own child, I just look at them and I'm like, 'I can only imagine how proud your parents are of you guys," Howey said.

Howey also has some key ways she unwinds and separates work from home, especially for the more emotionally heavy scenes.

"It's hard to leave work at work sometimes, I think no matter what your career is," Howey said. "It's definitely a work in progress, something I'm still working on. But trying to use some of those more emotional scenes or episodes in a cathartic way, it's almost like therapy. So, just trying to think of it as I can kind of get it all out on set so that when I go home, I don't have to carry any of this with me."

"Definitely leaning into friend time and family time, and I watch plenty of reality TV to help distract me sometimes, and that's always fun," she added.

In addition to her current work on Ginny & Georgia Season 4, Howey is part of Colgate Optic White’s The Science of WOW” campaign, which highlights the science behind Colgate's Optic White Pro Series toothpaste.

Best-Selling Author’s Rock ’n’ Roll Novel Named Best Book of the Century

Fri, 05/08/2026 - 2:52pm

Jennifer Egan’s A Visit From the Goon Squad is making a lot of noise on Spotify right now. Named the Best Book of the Century (So Far) by the platform’s senior editor, the 2010 Pulitzer Prize-winning novel has been thrust back into the spotlight.

“Any list of my all-time favorite books would have to start with Jennifer Egan’s A Visit from the Goon Squad,” Spotify writes. “At first glance, it’s the story of an aging punk rocker’s descent into obscurity as he’s battered by the inevitable passage of time — but the book’s magic is in its reminder that our stories live on, in the fabric of memory, long after we’re gone.”

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Told in a nonlinear format Egan says was inspired by Quentin Tarantino's Pulp Fiction, the novel unfolds over 13 stories, all centered on the lives of Bennie Salazar, an aging punk rocker and record executive, and Sasha, his assistant with a troubled past. The stories are interlinked across timelines, with the setting stretching across the globe, from New York to Italy to Kenya

Themes of time, aging, memory, self-destruction, and redemption are all explored with the turning of every pulsing page. Each chapter feels like a different track on a nonskip album, forming a story about how people change over time.

Though Egan wouldn’t call herself a “music person,” she turned to the industry’s best while writing this book. Inspired by decades of rock, pop, and punk, the author crafted what NPR calls “an outstanding rock and roll novel, its interlocking tales share characters and a slowly coalescing narrative, bouncing off each other and merging like the tracks a DJ selects to make for a great night on the dance floor.” 

They add that Egan hooks the reader with engaging characters and experimental prose. “I’d nominate her for a Grammy if I could.” If you’d like, you can check out the Spotify playlist for the book here.

NPR and Spotify aren’t the only superfans of Egan’s novel. A National Book Critics Circle Award winner, A Visit From the Goons was featured in The New York TimesTop 100 Books of the 21st Century, The Atlantic’s Great American Novels, and was named Entertainment Weekly’s Best Book of the Decade

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More than a decade after its release, the book continues to resonate. And guess what? We have a small-screen adaptation to look forward to. Per Deadline, Egan’s novel has been optioned by A24 with Olivia Wilde attached to direct and executive produce. The project will event adapt Egan's 2022 follow-up, The Candy House. Rock and roll.

Related: Olivia Wilde Steps Out to Promote New Film But Instead Sparks Health Concern Buzz

Pope Leo Causes A Stir After Viral Photo

Fri, 05/08/2026 - 2:50pm

Pope Leo XIV's shoe choice has been going viral since Thursday.

In a newly released screenshot, a photo of the Pope walking around wearing his full papal outfit and a pair of white Nike sneakers in a trailer for the Vatican documentary Leone a Roma has made its rounds on the Internet. The documentary is set to air on Vatican News around the first anniversary of his election, which falls on Friday.

According to Just Fresh Kicks, the shoe that Pope Leo is sporting is the Nike Franchise Low, which debuted in the 1970s and 1980s before returning around 2008 as a tennis lifestyle model. Unfortunately, the actual sneakers the Pontiff was wearing are discontinued, but similar-looking shoes like the Nike AF1s are still on sale.

The new trailer and his unique shoe choice have fans doing double takes. Some believe that his choice was inappropriate because traditionally, the Pope wears red leather shoes (often called papal slippers or mules) outdoors, symbolizing the blood of martyrs and the Passion of Christ. While past popes like Benedict XVI wore vibrant red, Pope Francis opted for simple black shoes to reflect humility, though red remains the official tradition.

"I don't think he's supposed to have those on but okay," someone noticed. "They do look fresh, very nice 👌."

"Very American thing," a user commented, referring to the fact that Pope Leo is the first American Pope to lead the Catholic church.

Another wrote, "Using name brands is unholy, it feeds the darkest side of materialism…"

"I’m not the most scrupulous guy, but if you’re THE POPE, you should probably avoid wearing a godless globalist consumerist LGBT promoting, child slave employing brand named after a pagan goddess of victory," an X user expressed, referring to the allegations the sports apparel company received in the 1990s and early 2000s about child labor. Though the Church has been more open about the LGBTQ+ community over the past few years, most are still not open to same-sex marriage. "Not that big of a deal, but kind of depressing that nobody really thinks anymore."

Pope Leo XIV wearing Nikes pic.twitter.com/lZZ3GLWE5J

— non aesthetic things (@PicturesFoIder) May 8, 2026

Despite the negative comments, most Internet users loved the shoes, saying it shows a "strong message." Plus, they are making funny jokes and memes along the way.

"Didn't realise the Pope had drip like that," a company wrote.

One commented, "Who says a pope can't have swag?"

"We all know it’s cause the devil wears Prada," a user joked, referring to the sequel to the 2006 film that came out last week.

Another joked, "Unironically the best thing to happen to Nike in years."

Newly elected Pope Leo XIV, Robert Prevost, arrives on the main central loggia balcony of St. Peter's Basilica for the first time, after the cardinals ended the conclave, in The Vatican, on May 8, 2025.

Photo by ALBERTO PIZZOLI/AFP via Getty Images

Born Robert Francis Prevost before changing his name to Pope Leo XIV last year, he was born and raised in Chicago, where he spent decades working in Peru. He served as the worldwide leader of the Augustinian order for 12 years, speaks fluent Spanish and Italian, and was leading the Vatican office for vetting bishops before his election.

It was confirmed by his brother, John Prevost, that Pope Leo is a diehard White Sox fan, and the Pontiff has been seen wearing a White Sox cap in the Vatican and has engaged in banter about local sports rivalries on many occasions.

Friday marks his first anniversary since the conclave after the previous Pontiff, Pope Francis, passed away. Leone a Roma (which translates to "Leo in Rome") is set to be released on Friday on various Vatican Media channels.

Related: Nicole Kidman's Daughter Causes a Stir After Breaking Met Gala Rule

Related: Leonardo DiCaprio Looks Nearly Unrecognizable With New Mustache

The World’s First Looping Coaster Turns 50 Today—And Returns to Its Original 1976 Name

Fri, 05/08/2026 - 2:30pm

If you're a fan of theme park history, today is the day a major piece of the past comes back to life. Six Flags Magic Mountain is officially celebrating the 50th anniversary of a true icon: The Great American Revolution. While it's spent recent years known simply as "The New Revolution," the park is marking this milestone by restoring its original, patriotic name just in time for the 50th birthday of the world’s first modern looping coaster.

When it debuted on May 8, 1976, it didn't just break records; it changed the physics of fun. It was the first coaster to successfully send riders through a full 360-degree vertical loop—a feat so significant that the ride has been designated a "Coaster Landmark" by the American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE). The original name was a nod to the U.S. Bicentennial, and now, as the country looks toward America's 250th birthday celebrations, the park is leaning back into that heritage.

Related: A U.S. Theme Park Has Just Claimed the World's Tallest Roller Coaster Loop

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Related: 8 Coasters Are Named 'Most Epic' in the US for 2026

For travelers visiting Southern California this weekend, the ride is more than just a thrill; it’s a walk through cinematic history. You might recognize its white steel tracks from the 1977 film Rollercoaster or its cameo in National Lampoon’s Vacation.

Beyond the name change, the park is rolling out commemorative 50th-anniversary merchandise and limited-time food and beverage offerings that lean into the 1970s nostalgia. Whether you call it "New" or "Great," one thing is for certain: 50 years later, this revolution is still worth the ride.

Related: The Roller Coasters Amusement Park Superfans Are Most Excited to Ride in 2026

Timothée Chalamet's Classic Adidas Zip-Up Hoodie Is the Definition of Sporty Style, and It's 40% Off Right Now

Fri, 05/08/2026 - 2:30pm

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If you're a Timothée Chalamet fan or just love a good sporty style moment, Adidas just dropped something you'll want to see. In a new film titled "Backyard Legends," the sportswear brand brought together an all-star cast — including Marty Supreme star Chalamet, Grammy-award winning musician Bad Bunny, and legendary soccer player Lionel Messi — to celebrate the spirit of football ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026. But let's be honest, it's not just the soccer magic grabbing everyone's attention. It's also the effortlessly cool Adidas hoodie Chalamet sports in the video, and it's now on sale for just $39.

Timothée Chalamet is known for his fashion sense, and this Trefoil Essentials Full-Zip Hoodie makes it easy for anyone to channel that A-list vibe. Whether you're running errands, grabbing coffee, or just hanging out at home, slipping into this hoodie (or dressing your guy in it) instantly adds a touch of movie star style to any day.

Adidas Trefoil Essentials Full-Zip Hoodie, $39 (was $65) at Adidas

Courtesy of Adidas

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The Trefoil Essentials Full-Zip Hoodie is the cozy classic featured in the film, and it's a steal at 40% off (originally $65). Available in gray heather with a crisp white Trefoil logo, this hoodie is all about comfort, versatility, and that subtle Adidas pride. It's also available in classic black for $52. 

The soft fleece fabric, ribbed cuffs, and regular fit make it perfect for layering, whether you're gearing up for a match or lounging on the weekend. The iconic embroidered logo connects you to generations of athletes and creators — plus, it just looks really good.

Related: Adidas’ Retro Sambae Sneaker Is Up to 40% Off, and It's the 'Perfect Shoe for Any Outfit'

The "Backyard Legends" film is a love letter to the joy of free play. Through Chalamet's eyes, we meet a crew of neighborhood football legends who rule their local pitch, taking on everyone from modern icons like Messi to classic superstars like David Beckham and Zinedine Zidane. You can absolutely wear this hoodie yourself for a cozy, effortlessly cool look like Chalamet, but it's also a fun way to give your husband or partner a little style upgrade. 

If the tradition pullover look is more your thing, the zipper-free Trefoil Essentials Hoodie is also on sale for $48 (down from $60). Both options come in a full range of unisex sizes so that you can snag the perfect fit for your next cozy day.

Adidas Trefoil Essentials Hoodie, $48 (was $60) at Adidas

Courtesy of Adidas

Shop at Adidas

With nearly 1,800 reviewers giving these hoodies a glowing 4.8-star average, it's clear they're a fan-favorite. "Amazing and comfortable hoodie!" one shopper stated. "One of the best hoodies I have in my collection, and the quality is just smooth and comfortable."

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You don't need a world famous cast or a global tournament to enjoy this sporty style — just a love of comfort, a dash of Adidas pride, and maybe a little inspiration from Timothée Chalamet himself. The Trefoil Essentials Full-Zip Hoodie is available now at Adidas for $39, but with a star endorsement like this, don't be surprised if it sells out fast. 

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2015 Box Office Sci-Fi Film Named Most Expensive Movie Ever Made

Fri, 05/08/2026 - 2:30pm

Star Wars: The Force Awakens, the seventh installment of the famous franchise, made a historic move in the movie industry following its release in 2015.

Released by Walt Disney Studios, making this their first Star Wars project to be distributed, it was named one of the “Most Expensive Movies Ever Made.”

In a list released by IGN, the publication ranked the top 12 ambitious films that possessed the biggest budgets in the film industry.

According to the outlet, the list was based solely on the budget figures strictly used for production or filming and does not include expenses for marketing, advertising, posters or promotional materials.

Landing at second place through twelfth place were Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Avengers: Endgame, Avatar: The Way of Water, Fast X, Avengers: Infinity War, Star Wars: The Last Jedi, Justice League and concluding the list is Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End.

As for the top spot with the most production budget, Star Wars: The Force Awakens reportedly had a budget of $447 million, quite close to the second most expensive movie with $432 million.

Harrison Ford attends the Star Wars: The Force Awakens fan event at Sydney Opera House on December 10, 2015.

Brendon Thorne/Getty Images for Walt Disney Studios

As cited by Film Local, some of the key factors that affected the production cost include the high-profile cast, which includes the original members Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Mark Hamill, Anthony Daniels, Peter Mayhew as Chewbacca and British actor Kenny Baker, who reprised his role as R2-D2.

In an interview with Collider, Ford mentioned being “delighted that people are happy to revisit the character again,” just like him.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens also focused on visuals, making it a large part of the budget.

Director J.J. Abrams preferred using props and constructing massive physical sets rather than relying solely on CGI.

Adding to the cost were unexpected filming delays. At the time, the production was halted for two weeks following Ford’s surgery and rehabilitation after a leg accident.

“The day I came back after recuperating from the worst day,” the A-lister said when Collider asked about his “best day on the set.”

Despite the huge production expense, the 2015 sequel secured sixth place as the highest-grossing movie according to industry analyst Box Office Mojo.

During its domestic opening, Star Wars: The Force Awakens earned a whopping $248 million during its weekend and went on to make over $2 billion in ticket sales globally.

Related: ’80s Thriller Starring Two-Time Oscar Winner Ranked Among 'Worst Movies of All Time'

2006 TV Pilot by 'Smallville' Creators Never Aired — But a Hit Movie Came Later

Fri, 05/08/2026 - 2:26pm

While Marvel fans await the highly anticipated Avengers: Doomsday, the DC Extended Universe remains ever busy in Hollywood.

One beloved character amongst the rival spread is Aquaman, portrayed by Jason Momoa is multiple films dating back to 2018. But two decades ago, the creators of the nostalgic show Smallville took a stab at bringing the superhero to life on the small screen.

Millennials certainly remember the Tom Welling-led series, which arguably kickstarted the golden age of live-action DC television. As CBR puts it, Smallville took the long way in telling Superman's iconic origin story — and succeeded, presumably leaving DC and The CW confident that other characters could lead similar series.

Enter Justin Hartley, 10 years before This Is Us truly put him on the map. For the Aquaman pilot shot in 2006, he would fill the Aquaman "shoes" (or whatever the marine life icon dons) in a project that would sadly never see the light of day.

In the series that was tentatively called Mercy Reef, Hartley's Arthur Curry learns in the sole episode that his true name is Orin — and the rightful heir to the Throne of Atlantis, per CBR. His mother, Atlanna, was seemingly killed by a siren when he was young, leaving him to be raised by his stepfather, Tom Curry (portrayed by Lou Diamond Phillips).

Of course, The CW passed on the end result — but here's some good news for anyone interested. Episode 1 of Mercy Reef was later released digitally and can be viewed on YouTube here.

True fans of Hartley's might recall that had also appeared in Smallville as Green Arrow. And in the years since, he's starred in high-profile projects such as Tracker, in addition to NBC's This Is Us.

And then there's Momoa, 46, who has also kept busy with a variety of other projects these days. He has played a standout role in the Fast & Furious franchise, for example, and the original movie is actually heading to this year's Cannes Film Festival for an anniversary screening. Find out more here.

Costco Just Brought Back a Fan-Favorite Dessert and Fans Are Racing to the Bakery

Fri, 05/08/2026 - 2:25pm

I have a serious weakness for the Costco bakery. I go into the warehouse for paper towels and frozen fruit and somehow end up hovering near the dessert case like it's a museum exhibit. So when I heard whispers that a beloved treat had quietly returned, I felt that familiar rush. You know the one—the "do I need this?" debate that lasts about three seconds before you grab one.

Costco has officially brought back a dessert that first made waves in December 2025. When it debuted last year, it was marketed as a must-try holiday item and quickly became one of the most talked-about sweets in the bakery. Now it's back on shelves, and fans are once again making a beeline for the dessert section.

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Costco Brought Back the Pistachio Cheesecake @costcoaisles

Pistachio Cheesecake with Whipped Topping has returned to Costco Bakery. • #costcoaisles #costcofinds #cheesecake #pistachio #foodiesoftiktok

♬ Midnight Sun (Girls Trip) - Zara Larsson & PinkPantheress

User @costcoaisles shows off the returning Pistachio Cheesecake with Whipped Topping, which is priced at $25.99 in the bakery. Availability may vary by warehouse, but shoppers have already started spotting it in stores again.

This nearly five-pound cheesecake is layered with flavor. It starts with a sweet graham cracker crust, followed by a thick pistachio cheesecake filling. On top, there's a generous layer of pistachio whipped topping and a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for extra texture.

Related: Costco's 'Amazing' Summer Accessory Is 'So Cool,' Shoppers Are Scrambling to Get One

Why Shoppers Can't Stop Talking About It

When the cheesecake first launched in late 2025, fans had a lot to say. Many described it as fantastic and delicious, with some even calling it the best cheesecake Costco has ever made. Reviewers praised its creamy, dense texture and balanced pistachio flavor.

Pistachios have a deliciously delicate flavor that is often described as nutty, buttery and lightly sweet with a subtle earthy note. That unique taste has become more popular in the U.S. in recent years, thanks to the viral Dubai chocolate craze. Pistachio flavoring is now showing up in everything from chocolate bars and truffles to ice cream and specialty lattes. Costco's cheesecake leans into that trend in a big way.

Some shoppers recommend slicing the cake and freezing individual pieces for easy desserts later on. Others say the plan sounds great in theory, but it never lasts long enough to reach the freezer. With its creamy filling and crunchy crust, it tends to disappear quickly at family gatherings and holiday parties.

Personally, I can't wait to try it! I might just pick one up for Mother's Day celebrations.

Related: This 'Italian Ice Cream' Costco Food Court Hack Has Shoppers Raving

Forgotten ‘70s Sitcom Was Canceled After 1 Season—Then Won an Emmy Anyway

Fri, 05/08/2026 - 2:22pm

In 1970, My World and Welcome to It had a short run on NBC. The fantasy comedy series, which starred William Windom, Joan Hotchkis, Lisa Gerritsen, Harold J. Stone, and Henry Morgan, focused on a writer and cartoonist for a New York magazine and was inspired by the life of legendary New Yorker contributor James Thurber. Created by Melville Shavelson, the series featured animation and Thurber-like fantasies. It aired for 26 episodes, from Sept. 15, 1969, to March  9, 1970, before being canceled.

In February 1970, the New York Timesreported that My World and Welcome to It was scrapped as part of a network housecleaning. “NBC has decided to replace six of its prime‐time programs this fall,” the outlet shared. “On Monday evening at 7:30, Red Skelton's half‐hour variety show replaces My World and Welcome to It.Daniel Boone and Dragnet were among the shows that were also axed.

Windom had been hopeful about ‘My World and Welcome to It’

Windom, who had been best known for The Philco Television Playhouse, Kraft Television Theatre, and guest roles on The Twilight Zone, Gunsmoke, and more, had high hopes for My World and Welcome to It.

In a vintage interview shared by The Bobbie Wygant Archive just ahead of its premiere, the actor noted, “My World and Welcome to It precedes Laugh-In every Monday night by half an hour.”

“It has to do with the stories based on the cartoons and short stories of James Thurber in which I will be depicting the role of a man called John Monroe with a wife named Ellen and a daughter named Lydia who works for the Manhattanite magazine in New York,” he shared. “Let's face it, it’s James Thurber with his wife and family living in Connecticut working for The New Yorker, but we have to change it for purposes of whatever.”

RELATED: Iconic ‘70s Sitcom Featured One of the Longest Laughs in TV History

Windom also touched on the animation featured in the episodes.

“I hope it appeals to everybody,” he said. "It appeals to me. It allows John Monroe to go off into flights of fancy and imagination, which include not only his cartoons coming to life but talking back to him or arguing with him. In other words, we've taken Thurber and animated him to a certain degree. A big staff of artists are kept busy doing Thurber houses, Thurber buildings, Thurber dogs. There were people walking talking, moving around. It's almost as if Thurber had gone to work for Disney.”

‘My World and Welcome to It’ won a major Emmy Award months after it was canceled—and Windom won one too

Months after it was canceled by NBC, My World and Welcome to It won the Emmy Award for Outstanding Comedy Series. Windom also won an Emmy for Outstanding Continued Performance By An Actor in a Leading Role in a Comedy Series

Executive producers Danny Arnold and Sheldon Leonard were on hand to accept the Best Comedy Series Award at the June 1970 Emmys ceremony. In a melancholy speech, Arnold said, “Sheldon, I, and Mel Shavelson, with mixed emotions, would like to thank you. We’d like to acknowledge a remarkable cast … all the other people that made it such a delight this past year, to our writers to our directors, we thank all of them.”

“And I would just add this," he continued. “That we all feel that it was a good thing, fitting, proper and important that James Thurber be part of American television—its present, now it's past, and hopefully again in its future. Thank you.”

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How 1950s Censorship Could Have Stripped 'James Bond' of Its Signature Style

Fri, 05/08/2026 - 2:20pm

On May 8, 1963, Dr. No arrived in US theaters, starring a little-known Scottish actor, Sean Connery. With a budget of just over $1 million, it astounded filmmakers when it went on to gross $16 million worldwide. With its success, the 007 formula of bombshell "Bond" girls and constant near-death situations tinged with humor was born.

"In my opinion, they started this whole larger-than-life approach to action-adventure pictures," screenwriter Richard Maibaum said in a 1986 interview for Backstory 1: Interviews with Screenwriters of Hollywood’s Golden Age (via CommanderBond.net). But if the film had been made just five years earlier, the result could've been not only a much different film, but a lackluster response from filmgoers.

"With the censorship of pictures that existed then, you couldn’t even have the minimal sex and violence that we eventually put into the pictures," he explained. "They just wouldn’t have been the same."

In one of the few interviews in which he discussed James Bond, Connery explained that he thought the appeal of Dr. No stemmed from how different it was from the boring "kitchen sink" films being made at the time.

"It was refreshing and had a certain kind of style, although it didn’t cost anything because we only had a million to make the picture,” he told IndieWire in 2002.

It's well-known that Ian Fleming, who wrote the James Bond novels, wanted a different actor to play Bond. His list included Cary Grant, Richard Burton, and David Niven, among others. However, the actor at the top of his list, Richard Todd, was unavailable. While Fleming originally didn't want Connery, he came around after seeing his portrayal in Dr. No. He even gave Bond Scottish ancestry in his next novel, You Only Live Twice.

But even after agreeing to the role, it took some help from others to get Connery into character. For that, he gave full credit to director Terence Young, who even used his own tailor to help provide the right kind of suits he needed to convincingly play the debonair spy.

Despite wishing he'd been paid more, Connery took pride in making the films that changed action-adventure films forever.

“They were exciting and funny and had good stories and pretty girls and intriguing locations," he said. "And it didn’t take anything for granted.”

4 Birth Dates That Are Wired to Be Night Owls

Fri, 05/08/2026 - 2:11pm

In the wise words of iconic singer-dancer Elvis Presley, "The sun's down, and the moon's pretty - it's time to ramble." Under the moonlight, a different energy comes alive. The world's daily tasks and routines come to a halt as it prioritizes rest, relaxation, and introspection. Even in the most rowdy of nightlife, work is pushed aside for pleasure and playfulness.

Some people thrive in the morning, while others come alive at night. These "night owls" often find their greatest joy in staying up later than average. Whether they enjoy watching their favorite shows, scrolling through social media, or engaging in their creative hobbies, they tend to experience the most pleasure when the world quiets down. According to expert numerologists and astrologers, four specific birth dates stand out as the most likely indicators of night owls who prefer midnight's moonlight over the crack of dawn sunrise. Read on to learn more.

Which Birth Dates Are Most Likely To Be Night Owls?

Check for your birth date. Disregard birth months.

READ: 4 Birth Dates With the Most Introverted Souls

Born on the 6th — The Evening Star

Bright like the "evening star", those born on the 6thare ruled by Venus. In numerology, six is the digit of domestic bliss, harmony, and community connection. Therefore, it's no surprise this hopeful romantic comes alive during the whimsical hours of dusk. The emerging heartbeat of night allows them to focus on desires over deadlines. Relationships take center stage, luxurious relaxation ensues, and affections can blossom. This birth date loves the self-care rituals, pampering, and bonding time that comes once the day's demands are paid their due, leaving room for wonder and appreciation of the finer things.

Born on the 11th — The Moonlit Dreamer

Ruled by the Moon, those born on the 11th tend to come alive at night. In the energetic twilight, their ever-present intuition becomes even more vibrant. They're often filled with poetic thoughts, gentle longings, and a deep desire to reflect and revisit memories. These sensitive, nostalgic souls feel cradled by the moonlight, finding a safe haven where they can lower their defenses and breathe freely. Given time to process emotions slowly and privately, not only does this bring comfort, but it also enhances their healing, fostering greater creative inspiration. This connection helps bridge the conscious and unconscious minds, leading to profound breakthroughs in their understanding of daily life.

NEXT: Which Famous Painter Captures Your Soul, Based on Zodiac Sign

Born on the 18th — The Midnight Warrior

Emerging from the shadows, those born on the 18thfeel most active as the night awakens. Their path is ruled by Mars, the warrior planet, and these individualistic souls crave time spent aligned with their inner authority. In the vibrant night, they can bend rules and break free from the confines of social expectations. Quite humanitarian at heart, these knights defend what is just and fair throughout the day. When basking under the moonlight, their defenses may soften, allowing for more inspiration rather than offense. Their drive, focus, and motivation peak in the evening. Although ambitious, an early-morning routine often runs counter to their nature, as they are naturally wired for a later rhythm.

RELATE?: The 4 Birth Months With Poetic Minds

Born on the 25th — The Twilight Visionary

In our daily lives, we often confront expectations, roles, and routines that demand focused logic and careful planning. Those born on the 25th tend to be dreamers first and doers second. As a result, they often feel inspired by life, especially when darkness descends. Ruled by Neptune, the ethereal planet, these old souls possess a quiet influence. With a somewhat blurred perception of reality, they can become overwhelmed by rigid structures that demand too much from them. During the evening twilight, their intuition sharpens, and their creativity flourishes. Frequently, when they are half-asleep, they come up with their best ideas or even experience prophetic insights through their dreams.

UP NEXT:

Readers Slam 'New York Times' For Viral Billy Joel Criticisms: 'He's a Good Example of a Person Who Writes 1 or 1.5 Songs Really Well'

Fri, 05/08/2026 - 2:09pm

As expected with any list ranking the 30 greatest living American songwriters, The New York Times was always going to endure their fair share of criticism, most especially when it came to the influential songwriters they chose to leave off of the list for one reason or another.

Case in point with the exclusion of musical legend Billy Joel, who was notably absent from The NY Times' list, which included the likes of Bad Bunny, Kendrick Lamar, Taylor Swift, Mariah Carey and Carole King.

When it came time to explain Joel's lack of presence on their list, the newspaper only seemed to fan the flames a bit more than necessarily intended, further earning the ire of longtime fans of Joel's work.

As the outlet wrote in a recent story explaining their decision, "Billy Joel is a very good example of a person who writes one or 1.5 kinds of songs really well," citing the singer's non-diverse discography as the primary reason for his absence.

In response, dozens of readers openly criticized The New York Times, defending Joel and citing his versatile musical style on some of the artist's best known albums.

"Hmm. That's a weird observation given Joel's breadth of work," one user commented on Facebook. "Barbershop, doo wop, jazz, swing, rock, Broadway, folk and there's more. So what is 1.5?"

"He wrote three great songs in one with 'Scenes From an Italian Restaurant,'" another fan added. "The man is a songwriting genius and anyone who argues the other way is just wasting their breath - they're objectively wrong."

Similarly, many social media profiles on platforms like Reddit seemed shocked by Joel's omission, with numerous accounts also citing their surprise at not finding certain other artists featured on The New York Times' list.

"Adrianne Lenker is absolutely one of the best living American songwriters, should’ve been included," shared one account.

"Not gonna even bother reading this list now knowing that Sufjan Stevens isn’t included," wrote another user.

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