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Welp, this is where the cowboy rides away.

George Strait just wrapped the last of his shows at Moody Center in Austin, performing beloved classics and newer hits for a sold-out crowd of more than 15,000 fans. The special “in-the-round” arena performance was part of a rare four-night hometown stand. 

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In a video that captured an intimate part of his set shared to TikTok, the King of Country of Music sings his 1985 hit “The Chair,” which climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 that December, capping off a 22-week run on the chart. 

@heatherwhite812

George Strait, The Chair, Austin TX, May 15,2026 @George Strait #georgestrait #austintexas #moodycenter #thechair #inevernissashow

♬ original sound - Heather White

Wearing a crisp white button-down, double-starched lightwash denim, and a black cowboy hat, the troubador sounds pitch-perfect, hitting all the right notes. He even flashes the winning smile that sends fans into a frenzy. Just look to the video's comments for proof. 

"I would’ve been crying the whole time as he sang this song😭😭❤️❤️," one fan commented.

"My favorite George Strait song," another wrote.

"I can listen to this on repeat all day," another said.

Beyond the voice and song choice, though, fans couldn’t stop talking about another detail of the legend's performance: his gorgeous gray hair. As the video goes in for a close-up, the “silver fox’s” hair comes into better view — its lovely shade of gray clearly visible -- and clearly also a hit with fans. 

"Still crushing on him. 😍," one said.

"That man is aging like fine wine!!!!!!" another wrote.

"How is he still that fine??? 🥵," yet another commented.

Now 74, Strait is still going strong. Just two years ago, he co-headlined a historic concert at Texas A&M University’s Kyle Field in College Station, Texas, with rising star ParkerMcCollum. The two drew a crowd of more than 110,000 fans, breaking the record for largest single-ticketed performance in U.S. history, per People. 

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McCollum, a massive George Strait fan, just became a little bit more like his hero, winning the award for Album of the Year at Sunday’s Academy of Country Music Awards. Strait himself has worn the same title three times.

Strait has also won Entertainer of the Year five times across two major country music award associations: the ACMs and the Country Music Association Awards.

Long live the Silver-Fox King of Country Music. 

Related: 1992 Tearjerker Starring the King of Country Music Became a Beloved Guilty Pleasure

Country performances stand out from other genres. The focus is usually on the instruments, lyrics, and possibly a great collaboration between artists. There was a ranking of live country performances and the one on top has a unique setting.

Johnny Cash's Folsom Prison Performance Ranked No. 1

MsMojo gave a top 10 list of the greatest live country music performances. Buck Owens & The Buckaroos placed fifth for their Carnegie Hall performance in 1966. They were the first country band to record an album in the venue.

Related:Elton John Fans Debated If 1974 Song Was Revenge or a Joke

The second was Dolly Parton saying goodbye to her collaborator Porter Wagoner with "I'll Always Love You." She was ready to step out on her own, but wanted to leave him with the sweet song. The personal song became a hit and gained new life with Whitney Houston's cover.

Johnny Cash's live recording at California's Folsom Prison on January 13, 1968, took the top spot. He was adamant about performing his album, At Folsom Prison, in the prison. That dream came true 13 years after he released the song, "Folsom Prison Blues."

His time serving in the Air Force in Germany inspired the idea when his unit watched Inside the Walls of Folsom Prison. His drummer gave another reason for his goal. "One thing he liked about playing prisons: If he did something the audience didn't like, they couldn't leave," W.S. "Fluke" Holland said, according to NPR.

The release of the album revitalized his career, which had been hurt because of his addiction. "Folsom Prison Blues" was awarded a Grammy for Best Male Vocal Performance.

The performance was entered into the Library of Congress's National Recording Registry. The album was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. Lastly, the performance was depicted in 2005's Walk the Line starring Joaquin Phoenixas the country legend.

Related: Reba McEntire Shares Big Hair Throwback Photo, ‘He Made Me a Mother’

Hershey is bringing a beloved Italian staple to the sweets aisle with its latest launch. The candy giant is quietly rolling out a brand-new cream-filled chocolate bar flavor inspired by affogato—the classic Italian dessert that famously combines espresso and gelato into one rich, ultra-decadent bite.

The new bar blends Hershey’s signature milk chocolate with a creamy coffee-and-vanilla flavored filling designed to capture the vibe of an affogato: sweet, bold, creamy, and just a little fancy in the best possible way.

The sophisticated turn feels perfectly timed, as café culture continues to explode thanks to viral social media sharing platforms like TikTok, where anyone with a phone can practically become a professional barista—from the comfort of their own homes.

"Capture the essence of a cozy Italian cafe in a single, bite-sized treat with Hershey’s Affogato Snack Size Bars. These individually wrapped treats layer espresso-flavored caramel and velvety vanilla creme inside a classic milk chocolate shell. Inspired by the traditional dessert of espresso poured over gelato, these snack-sized portions deliver a sophisticated caffeine-inspired kick and creamy finish that is perfect for mid-day pick-me-ups or evening indulgences," the description reads on retailer Blair Candy's website.

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According to food insider @candyhunting on Instagram, it will be released in King Size bars in addition to the individually-wrapped Snack Size, set to release this fall. However, whether it becomes a permanent Hershey addition or disappears as a limited-edition release is unclear at this time.

Along with Affogato, there's also a Salted Caramel Creme flavor on the way, featuring milk chocolate filled with salted caramel and vanilla creme.

Fans hopped into the comments section of the May 19 post to share enthusiasm for the new drop. "Affogato! Yum," one reacted, while another is already plotting on how they'll eat it: "Affogato I would plop into the real thing. To kinda give a chocolate sauce vibe."

Related: Hershey’s Brand-New Candy Launch Is a 'First-Ever' Release

With airfare costs up a whopping 20.7% over the last year and 2026 shaping up to be the biggest year for American road trips in nearly two decades, millions of travelers are ditching the airport lines and hitting the highway instead. And according to USA Today 10Best editors and readers, if you're road-tripping through the Midwest this summer and looking for an affordable place to stay, the Square Rigger Lodge in Jacksonport, Wisconsin, deserves to be your first stop.

The property just claimed the #1 spot as America's best roadside motel—and once you see what they're offering, you'll understand why. Perched on 286 feet of sandy shoreline on Lake Michigan, the Square Rigger goes beyond just any regular ol’ motel. 

View this post on Instagram More Than Just Rooms

The Square Rigger offers something rare in the roadside motel world: real options and real hospitality. You can book a room, a cottage, or even rent an entire four-bedroom house—all with views of the water. Everything is family-owned and operated, which means the owners care about your stay. Reviewers consistently praise their responsiveness and thoughtfulness, making the small touches that transform a pit stop into an actual experience.

Perhaps the best part of the property? The beachfront coffee shop. Instead of gross, reheated motel coffee and stale vending machine pastries, the Square Rigger serves local Door County coffee, fresh-baked scones, croissants, and homemade quiche made with ingredients from nearby farms. You can sit on the deck with your coffee, watch the sunrise, and feel like you're actually on vacation rather than just passing through.

Related: 10 U.S. Destinations Perfect for Slow Travel (Where You’ll Actually Want To Stay Longer)

The Setting Is the Real Star

The beach itself is one of Door County's longest sand stretches—286 feet of it, complete with lounge chairs, a fire pit for evening gatherings, and a large shaded yard for reading or napping between explorations. The rooms are clean and comfortable with free WiFi, and if you need to handle work, there's a dedicated office space so you can check emails without missing the view.

Why This Matters Right Now

With travel costs seemingly rising every day, road trips just make financial sense for many folks. When you factor in rising airfare, baggage fees, and ground transportation, road trips are significantly cheaper than flying vacations and, in many ways, logistically easier. 

The Square Rigger hits that sweet spot: it's genuinely nice, easy on the wallet, and offers stunning waterfront views. 

Related: 3 Underrated Stops Along the Oregon Coast Between Portland and San Francisco

USA Today 10Best's Top 10 Roadside Motels (2026)

• #1: Square Rigger Lodge – Jacksonport, Wisconsin
• #2: Fresh Coast Motel – Fish Creek, Wisconsin
• #3: River Lodge – Paso Robles, California
• #4: Roadrunner Lodge Motel – Tucumcari, New Mexico
• #5: The Local - St. Augustine – St. Augustine, Florida
• #6: Freebird Motor Lodge – West Yarmouth, Massachusetts
• #7: Madbush Falls – Waitsfield, Vermont
• #8: Sugarloaf Mountain Motel – Virginia City, Nevada
• #9: Boots Court Motel – Carthage, Missouri
• #10: Rhode's Motor Lodge – Boone, North Carolina

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As you head into a summer full of red, white and blue between Memorial Day, Fourth of July, the USA's 250th birthdayandLabor Day, you might as well start accumulating all of your flag-colored accessories now because they're going to get a lot of use. Of course, that doesn't mean you shouldn't also look for a deal because I know I'm not a Rockefeller, and you probably aren't either.

Fortunately, whether you're hitting up Aldi, Dollar Tree or Target's Bulleye's Playground, there are plenty of affordable goodies that fit the theme. If you're hosting a barbecue over any of the aforementioned holidays, you'll want to kick that Americana theme up a notch, and Target has just the serving piece to do it.

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Bullseye's Playground Ceramic Tiered Tray, $5 at Target Ceramic Tiered Tray

Target

Shop It!

This little two-tier serving tray at Target has that classic red and blue color combo, giving it such a fun, slightly vintage American feel. It's made of smooth ceramic and is compact enough to tuck onto a Memorial Day spread, but still tall enough to make a statement with snacks, desserts or even seasonal decorations layered across the two tiers.

Because it's ceramic, it feels sturdy and substantial rather than flimsy. Plus, cleanup is easy—just wipe it down with a damp cloth when you're done (but do not stick it in the dishwasher).

Related: Aldi's $15 Patio Rug Is Giving High-End Cabana Vibes

As with all Bullseye's Playground merch, you can only grab it in-store. Target doesn't offer it for shipping. However, you can still use the retailer's "show in-stock stores" feature on the product page to find availability near you. This way you aren't running around to various Targets in hopes of snagging one $5 server.

I picture this two-tier server piled high with sliders or even functioning as a grazing moment with crackers and cheeses. And you could definitely use it to serve fun little desserts (bonus points if those too are red, white and blue).

While you're at Target, you might as well kit out your porch or patio for summer hangs. There's a gorgeous storage bench for $158, as well as a wooden folding picnic table (this red and blue server would look great on that). And don't forget to pick up one of Owala's new water bottles with designs inspired by the American West. It's important to stay hydrated, after all.

Related: Five Below's 3-Pack of Puck Lights Will Brighten Up Your Home's Organization

Margo's Got Money Troubles has proven to be one of Apple TV's biggest hits of the year so far. Based on Rufi Thorpe’s bestselling novel of the same name and created by Ubershowrunner David E. Kelley (Ally McBeal, Big Little Lies, over the past month, we've watched the definition of making ends meet in the 2020s. And alas, this Wednesday, all good things must come to an end.

Well, at least for this round in the ring.

On May 13, Apple announced that Margo's Got Money Troubles would be returning for a second season, which is incredibly exciting news for fans of the family dramedy starring Elle Fanning, Michelle Pfeiffer and Nick Offerman. But that doesn't take anything away from the upcoming finale, of which Parade has an exclusive sneak peek below. Because it appears we're closing out Season 1 with a showdown in court.

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Margo's Got Money Troubles Finale Preview (Exclusive) (0:56)

Two episodes ago, Margo (Fanning) was told that Mark (Michael Angarano), the college professor who got her pregnant and subsequently abandoned her, had filed for full custody of their child, Bodhi. It's a slap in the face for her, as she turned to creating OnlyFans content to make money once it seemed like she was on her own. And that's exactly what Mark hopes is Exhibit A for this custody hearing, eager to use her new form of employment as proof that she's an "unfit mother."

The preview of the finale opens in a bathroom, presumably in the courthouse. It focuses on two characters putting on their makeup, presumably preparing for the hearing. And it's a delectable scene-chewer for two of the heaviest hitters in Margo's Got Money Troubles: Pfeiffer as Margo's mother, Shyanne, and Nicole Kidman as Lace, a former wrestler turned lawyer.

"All set?" Lace asks, sauntering into the restroom.

"Set," Shyanne declares, nonchalantly not looking at her. "Locked and loaded! Is that the expression?"

"It is."

Related: What Is ‘Margo’s Got Money Troubles’ About? Cast, Release Date and How to Watch

After a pause, Shyanne finally looks at the other woman, insisting, "You need to win this for my little girl."

"She needs to win it," Lace replies. "But I'm gonna be right by her side." The implication here is that Lace will be representing Margo in the hearing, an understandable connection given she's a former associate of her father, Jinx (Offerman).

Despite Lace's confidence, it's clear Shyanne has something on her mind. Right now, all she can muster up is an apology, saying, "I'm sorry."

"For what?" Lace responds coolly.

"I don't know. Maybe all of it. Margo's plight, Jinx."

"Why would you be sorry for that?"

"Well, I probably shouldn't be," Shyanne says, coming to her senses with a laugh. But, as much as she's shrugging it off, it's clear Lace now has a new goal: To motivate this former Hooters waitress and get her head in the game.

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

"I've come across a lot of people in life who need to apologize for themselves," she says. "You would not be one of them." Shaynne, clearly touched, musters out a quiet "thank you."

As the music comes in, Lace suddenly turns her motivational speech physical, grabbing an alarmed Shyanne by the back of the head. Bringing her close, the Oscar winner whispers three simple words, the ones that greeted her less than a minute before: "Lock and load."

It's a fitting credo. Not only is it the finale episode title, but it's a tactic that Lace, Shyanne, and most importantly, Margo will need to employ to win this day in court. Given the series has already been renewed for Season 2, we have a sense of how this story ends. But it would only be befitting of a show populated with former wrestlers to have something — or someone — come in from the top rope with a last-minute twist.

Check out the exclusive sneak peek clip above. The Margo's Got Money Troubles finale drops Wednesday, May 20 on Apple TV.

Related: Inside Michelle Pfeiffer’s Marriage — And Why She Waited 30 Years to Work With Husband David E. Kelley

Star Wars' highly anticipated brand-new movie The Mandalorian and Grogu won't hit theaters until May 22 (with some early showings available May 21), but critics have already had a chance to see it—and early reviews and the current Rotten Tomatoes scores for the movie suggest that not everyone loved it.

Although there have been many Star Wars TV shows released over the last several years, including The Mandalorian, from which The Mandalorian and Grogu comes, there has been a long hiatus in terms of new theatrical releases in a franchise that was once dominated by movies.

The most recent new film was Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, released in December of 2019, and that movie generally didn't fair well with critics either; in fact, The Rise of Skywalker's Rotten Tomatoes critic score sits at a dismal 51%.

Shockingly, despite the fanfare around the movie and the focus on Din Djarin and Grogu, two of Star Wars' most beloved characters, The Mandalorian and Grogu's critic Rotten Tomatoes score really isn't much better. Currently, the critic score score is 61%, although that's likely to fluctuate somewhat as additional scores roll in.

In addition to the average score, reviews range from fairly positive to absolutely scathing. Among the 77 reviews that are currently on Rotten Tomatoes, one review from Tessa Smith at Mama's Geekybitingly states, "Underwhelmed is an understatement. The Mandalorian and Grogu feels like a mashed-up TV arc that belonged on Disney+ rather than in IMAX."

Another review from Hoai-Tran Bui at Inverse says, "It’s a movie by way of theme parks and video games — at its best, it feels like a series of cutscenes edited together, at its worst, it feels like one of those videos you half-watch while waiting in line for the next Mandalorian-themed ride."

Owen Gleiberman at Varietysimilarly asserted, "By nudging 'The Mandalorian' onto the big screen, Disney, the purveyor of the 'Star Wars' multiverse, is offering nothing more (or less) than a couple of likable, diverting, semi-forgettable episodes jammed together."

Granted, audience scores have yet to come in, and it's very possible that they will skew significantly more positive.

Amazon just dropped a tool that might kill the traditional podcast queue.

The retail giant rolled out Alexa+ Podcasts. It is a feature designed to turn your hyper-specific internet obsessions into an audio show in about three minutes flat. Think of it as a custom radio station for your brain.

Publishers are providing the information for the app. Amazon partnered with heavy hitters like Condé Nast, Hearst, Reuters, and the Washington Post to feed the machine. You type in a topic. The app spits out a fully produced audio episode loaded with real-time data. By signing up to provide the data, the media is making sure that when AI summarizes a historical scandal or a complex case file, the facts come from a vetted journalist rather than a random forum user.

Listeners can use the tool for studying the Cold War or learning the architectural quirks of Rome before a vacation. Sure. Fine. But let us be honest about how people will actually use this.

This is the ultimate deep dive for the true crime community and history nerds.

Instead of waiting for your favorite weekly investigative show to drop a new season, you can ask the app to compile a deep dive into cold cases the second you start the engine. You can also request a granular rundown of the strangest historical mysteries, and the system will string together the facts while you drive.

The new Alexa+ podcast tool. (Source: Amazon)

Amazon

But the real goldmine here is hidden history.

Think about pulling into a small town in New England or a crossroads in Texas. You don't want the generic, sanitized tour guide info. You want the weird stuff. You can ask Alexa+ to dig up the localized, forgotten historical drama that happened right where you are parked. It strips away the dry textbook dates and gives you the raw narrative.

For the listener, it means faster access to the dark corners of history and true crime. Whether that means a six-hour dive into Victorian-era mysteries or a detailed look at forgotten regional lore, Amazon just built the ultimate tool for people who cannot stand a quiet car.

Guy Fieri is bringing Flavortown to another aisle at the grocery store.

On Tuesday, it was revealed that the celebrity Food Network host would expand his retail presence as part of a new partnership with SNAX-Sational, the innovator behind snacks like Cookie Pop, Candy Pop and PB&J Pop.

Joining the municipalities of Flavortown are several "bold" new versions of popcorn—an ancient food that dates back thousands of years and just so happens to be one of Fieri's "all-time favorites."

"Ever since I was a kid, I’ve been a freak for popcorn! So to be able to take one of my all-time favorite snacks to Flavortown is pretty exciting!" the Diners, Drive-ins and Dives star joked. "Sure, I’m gonna bring you the classics but get your taste buds ready for some real deal flavor bombs that you won’t find anywhere else on the shelf!"

Guy Fieri Partners With SNAX-Sational Brands for Chef-Inspired Line of Flavored Popcorn

According to the May 29 press release, the collaboration is bringing five takes on microwave popcorn to the snack aisle with a "new level of flavor," personality and a simple ingredient list that includes whole grain popcorn, palm or sunflower oil, salt, spices and in some recipes, real butter (never any artificial flavors or colors).

"Guy is known for creating bold, unforgettable food experiences, and together we’ve developed a lineup that delivers big flavor, high-quality ingredients and fun in every bag," Mike Hagan, CEO of SNAX-Sational Brands, added.

Related: Guy Fieri's Flavortown Sauce Receives an ‘Amazing’ Honor: ‘Excited for the Recognition’

The new line is debuting in varieties like Big Bite Butter, Cinnamon Butter Bomb, Mexican Street Corn, Straight Up Popcorn, and Prime Time Kettle, all of which are certified Kosher, and gluten-free, some are even vegan.

• Big Bite Butter: Big butter flavor that’s bold and unapologetic
• Cinnamon Butter Bomb: Sweet with a rich buttery finish
• Mexican Street Corn: Tangy lime flavor with just enough heat
• Straight Up Popcorn: No frills. Full flavor.
• Prime Time Kettle: Sweet meets salty — with attitude

Flavortown Popcorn

Hagan said that consumers are "ready for a more exciting popcorn experience," and that's what this new collaboration aims to provide—from its standout packaging to "innovative flavors that will illuminate off the shelf." The exec is sure this new popcorn collection is a "game changer."

Guy Fieri's Flavortown Microwave Popcorn collection is expected to be available at grocery store chains nationwide soon (an exact rollout date was not immediately clear; prices may vary). To learn more about the brand or to review a full ingredient list, visit the official Flavortown Popcorn website.

Next: Pringles Revives Its Fan-Dividing Miller Lite Collab, Adds a New Flavor

If you're planning a road trip through the Northeast this summer, you'll definitely want to plan a stop at Bingham's Restaurant in Kingsley, Pennsylvania. According to USA Today 10Best editors and readers, it just claimed the #1 spot as America's best roadside diner—and fans say once you taste their pies, you'll understand why.

Bingham's isn't some trendy, Instagram-bait establishment. It's the real deal: a family-owned diner tucked right off I-81 that's been serving travelers and locals the kind of comfort food that makes you feel like you're eating at your grandmother's kitchen table. As the restaurant itself puts it, they are "one of the last havens for real home cookin' and homemade baked goods," and after seeing what they offer, we can see why.

Related: 1977 Hit Ranked Among ‘Greatest Songs of All Time’ Became a Road Trip Anthem

The Pies Are the Main Event

The pies are really why Bingham's made headlines—and rightfully so. Pecan, coconut cream, cherry crumb, chocolate peanut butter, and about a dozen other flavors rotate through their cases. These aren't frozen desserts shipped from some distributor. They're made fresh daily on-site, and you can taste the difference immediately. Diners rave about the cream puffs too—apparently, they're so good you'll want to grab more than one.

The savory menu is also nothing to sneeze at. Signature dishes include chicken pot pie, pot roast, grilled chopped steak, crab cakes, and more. They even serve pickle fries for that fun, novelty touch. The breakfast menu features traditional, hearty morning fare, including cinnamonFrench toast and fresh-baked cinnamon-raisin bread that actually tastes homemade. 

View this post on Instagram What Makes It a Roadside Gem

Bingham's has all the hallmarks of a classic American roadside diner: generous portions, friendly service, a warm, welcoming atmosphere, and zero pretension. The place is family-friendly, takes reservations, and offers takeout—practical touches that matter when you're road-tripping. Plus, they're open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The location (6092 State Route 92, right off I-81 near Exit 211) makes it easy to grab on the way through—and it’s definitely worth the stop. The homemade breads, pastries, and everything-from-scratch approach sets it apart from typical chain restaurants you'd find at most highway exits.

Related: The Official ‘Most Beautiful Drive in America’ Has Clear Alpine Lakes, Mountain Ranges, and Year-Round Snowy Views

The Top 10 Roadside Diners (USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice 2026)

• #1: Bingham's Restaurant – Kingsley, Pennsylvania
• #2: Tommy's Diner – Columbus, Ohio
• #3: Bob's Grill – Pittsburg, Kansas
• #4: Liz's Where Y'at Diner – Mandeville, Louisiana
• #5: Pete's Restaurant & Coffee Shop – Knoxville, Tennessee
• #6: Thunderbird Cafe – McGaheysville, Virginia
• #7: Magpie Diner – Harrisonburg, Virginia
• #8: Shelby's Diner – Frankfort, Kentucky
• #9: Anchor Grill – Covington, Kentucky
• #10: Tops Diner – East Newark, New Jersey

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A 2018 supernatural psychological horror film left a mark in cinematic history and continues its cult status as one of the greatest horror movies of recent years.

Hereditary, which stars acclaimed Australian actress Toni Collette, is celebrated for being a spine-chilling masterpiece that stands out for its unconventional storyline.

In a video released by WatchMojo, Hereditary ranked No. 1 on the list of “best horror movies” of the last decade.

As for Hereditary, it seamlessly blended classic horror elements, from the disturbing imagery to the supernatural undertones that escalate tension.

Moreover, the narrative about psychological strain particularly mental health veers away from the usual premise of the genre, marking a striking turning point in 21st-century horror cinema.

Rooted in the director’s exploration of grief and family trauma, the film centers around the Graham family, who begin experiencing bizarre situations following a death in their family.

Director Ari Aster, known for his signature style of storytelling through psychologically intense dark horror films, shared that the goal was to create a movie that explores how trauma can slowly destroy a family.

NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 5: Gabriel Byrne, Alex Wolff, Ari Aster, Toni Collette and Milly Shapiro attend A24 Hosts A Screening Of "Hereditary" at Metrograph on June 5, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Paul Bruinooge/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images)

Paul Bruinooge/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images

“I knew that I really wanted to make a film about the corrosive effects of trauma on a family unit,” the filmmaker told Vox after the film’s US release. “I knew that I wanted to make a film that had sort of an ouroboros quality about a family that’s basically eating itself in its grief.”

In just 32 days of production, Aster and his outstanding cast and crew managed to deliver a cult favorite. 

Rotten Tomatoes, a well-known television and movie review aggregation website, rated it at around 90 percent, with critics comparing it to classic horror films like The Exorcist and Rosemary’s Baby.

Collette also won Best Actress at the 2018 Gotham Awards for her impressive role as Annie Graham, a professional miniature artist who is dealing with her mother's death.

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In an interview with The Guardian, she admitted that despite delivering a jaw-dropping performance in Hereditary, she is not a fan of the horror genre.

“I don’t like horror films,” she shared, adding, “I’m just too petrified to watch horror films!”

As for acting, she sees it as “challenging work,” but in Hereditary, it was more of a “beautiful, fragile story about people living with huge amounts of emotional pain” than a horror film.

Related: 1973 Hit Horror Film, Whose Production Nearly Killed a ’70s Icon, Ranked Among Best Movies of All Time

The Late Show with Stephen Colbert is nearing the release of its final episode on May 21. Looking back at his career and journey to taking over for David Letterman, Colbert reveals the family moment with his sister that changed everything.

Audiences are saying goodbye to another late-night host, with Colbert speaking exclusively with People about what led him to become one of the biggest stars on TV. He admits that "this gig was never the goal" and grew up on Johnny Carson and Letterman, but he always saw himself as an actor and writer.

After The Daily Show and his own spinoff in 2005, Colbert got the call with an offer to replace Letterman on The Late Show. Taking up the offer wasn't easy, and Colbert reveals he spent four months in therapy trying to accept it. While his manager, James Dixon, eased his worries about being meant for the job, it was his sister who sealed the deal.

 "I would have talked to about my mom about this, but she had passed at this point, and so nobody [in my family] knew that I had been offered this job, and I asked my sister, Mary, I said, 'Mary, could you come up?' She lived in D.C. I said, 'Could you come up to New York? I just want to talk to you about something,'" explained Colbert.

He adds that his sister had arrived the next day in New York and immediately asked what was wrong. The late-night host remembers making both of them an old-fashioned before sitting down to reveal the news. It was his sister's reaction that was the "deciding factor."

"And I said, 'Well, Dave is stepping down.' And she just burst into a huge smile, and I said, 'Okay, okay. Mary, if this show works out, CBS should send you a bouquet of flowers because I'm going to take the job because you just smiled.' So her happiness for me getting the gig is the thing that really sealed it for me," he revealed.

Related: Why Princess Diana Refused to Appear on the Cover of John F. Kennedy Jr.’s Magazine

The rest was history, with Colbert stepping behind the desk after Letterman's retirement in 2015. It's been over a decade since he became host, with news of the late-night show's cancellation having been revealed in July 2025. The cancellation happened days after Colbert criticized Paramount's settlement with President Donald Trump. While saying he'll "never stop caring about my country," Colbert admits that political discourse and conversation will not fade.

"I harvest laughter for a living, I’ll miss that as much as I’ll miss the audience, that camaraderie of us feeling better about our day, being able to talk about it. A lot of things happen in a day, but we bat last, and I hope it made their day better," he said.

For millions of people across the globe, durians remain something of a taboo delicacy. An incredibly delicious and refreshing fruit hailing from Southeast Asia, durians are perhaps more commonly known for its pungent, almost unbearably unpleasant smell.

While some restaurants outright ban the presence of durians due to its overpowering aroma, many people continue to find the fruit a worthwhile treat to enjoy at any time of the year.

With that being said, Costco has left fans more than a little divided with its return of a certain durian-inspired dessert.

According to Sporked, the iconic warehouse supplier has once again stocked up on Maven's Creamy Durian Ice Cream.

As the name readily suggests, Maven's Creamy Durian Ice Cream features a similar flavor profile as its infamous fruit counterpart. Fortunately, though, the ice cream incorporates only a hint of the notorious aroma present in actual durians, so you needn't worry about the smell of onions or sweaty gym socks as you sit down to enjoy.

Yet even then, most Costco members on social media have maintained a somewhat divided stance when it comes to the returning treat. While some are all for the ice cream's restock, other, more skeptical users expressed their apprehension about Costco's returning dessert.

"Has anyone tried the durian ice cream? The consensus seems to be a solid no," one account wrote on Reddit.

Though some shoppers maintained a hardline stance against the ice cream, others called it a perfect introduction to durian itself, complimenting the dessert for its distinct flavor and its lack of a strong smell.

"If you ever wondered what durian tastes like, this ice cream is the gateway for it," one user wrote. "The fruit is arguably more difficult to eat because the natural smell can get overpoweringly pungent. The ice cream's smell is much milder in comparison, but the flavor is still there and it packs a punch."

"It’s an acquired taste, I love durian and enjoy this ice cream very much!" another account agreed. "It sells like hotcakes at the local Costco stores."

Reality TV fans adore Jersey Shore's Nicole "Snooki" Polizzi for her authenticity and vulnerability. And she stayed true to herself during an episode of the Let's Be Honest with Kristin Cavallari podcast, where she opened up about her recent Stage I cervical cancer diagnosis. When asked how it felt to receive the health results, Polizzi responded, "Terrifying."

She further explained, "I definitely had a breakdown. Like, ‘Oh my God. What am I gonna do? I gotta get my will in place. What is going to happen?' Planning my funeral. I was being so dramatic. But then, I did research, and I was like this is so common for women, and no one really talks about it. And I’m gonna be okay, because there’s things I have to do and I’ll be fine. Stage I is the best-case scenario. I just have to get a hysterectomy and then just have to watch it for the rest of my life. But yeah, it’s scary! When you hear the word ‘cancer,’ you’re like, ‘Oh my God. I’m dying. I have to do all these things. My body’s gonna change.’"

Polizzi publicly announced her Stage I cervical cancer diagnosis in February on TikTok. However, this decision did not come easily at first, until she saw other women sharing their experiences on the same social media platform. She revealed to Cavallari, "I didn’t think I was going to tell anyone—just my close family, and that’s it. Let’s deal with this. No one’s going to know. But then, I went on TikTok because I didn’t know anything about cervical cancer, hysterectomy… I needed someone relatable to talk about their experience."

Nicole "Snooki" Polizzi with her "Jersey Shore: Family Vacation" family (Photo by Manny Carabel/Getty Images for MTV)

"So I went on TikTok, and there’s just so many women saying I just got diagnosed with Stage I [cervical cancer]. This is what I have to do. And then other TikToks saying how they had a hysterectomy [and] it wasn’t that bad. And I was like, I feel like I need to tell my story because I literally looked for these women to make me feel better. So why not talk about it? Because nobody talks about it. And it’s so common. It’s so common to have Stage I cervical cancer," added Polizzi.

Snooki shared her hopes of getting a hysterectomy "probably this summer," which would require a two-week recovery period. While she's "terrified" of the surgery, she's excited for what’s ahead, including spending time with her husband Jionni LaValle and their three children, expanding The Snooki Shop, and filming with herJersey Shore castmates for years to come.

"We’re definitely not done filming. We always said we want to film until we’re in a nursing home, in Depends, and being old ladies. We’re just trying to figure out the next step."

The stats on Road House don't make much sense at first glance. Upon its release on May 19, 1989, reviewers handed it five Golden Raspberry nominations, including Worst Picture and Worst Actor for Patrick Swayze. Roger Ebertwrote that it existed "on the edge between the 'good-bad movie' and the merely bad."

They were wrong. Dead wrong.

The Road House facts are a head scratcher:

• 1990Razzie Awards: 5 Nominations (Worst Picture, Actor, Director...)
• 2005Razzie Book: Named one of the "100 Most Enjoyably Bad Movies"
• 2020Cable Charts: Voted the #1 most-watched movie on basic cable
• Initial Box Office Returns: $61 Million+ on a $15 Million budget

Cult status is earned in the trenches of midnight television. By the time 2020 and COVID rolled around, audiences locked in their houses didn't tune into high-brow Oscar winners. They voted with their remotes, making Road House the single most-watched movie on basic cable.

It turns out people didn’t want prestige. They wanted a guy with a philosophy degree from NYU who knew how to kick a monster truck enthusiast through a brick wall.

The industry eventually stopped laughing. The founder of the Razzies, John Wilson, officially designated it to his definitive list of The 100 Most Enjoyably Bad Movies Ever Made in his book The Official Razzie Movie Guide: Enjoying the Best of Hollywood's Worst. Bill Murray famously loves the film and found her love scene “hilarious.”  Murray used to callKelly Lynch’s husband whenever the movie aired just to report on her sex scene against the rocks.

Then there’s this review: "Road House is much funnier than most comedies, until it turns vile instead of just stupid." That was Caryn James in The New York Times back in '89, trying to roast the movie but accidentally summarizing its appeal.

The film survives because Swayze treats every single punch like he is performing Shakespeare at the Globe. When he delivers the now-immortal line, "Pain don't hurt," he believes it. And because he believes it, the audience does too.

Then there’s the cast of Road House: You have Sam Elliott playing the aging mentor with a pack of cigarettes and more charisma in his pinky finger than most people have in their entire bodies. You have the blues guitarist Jeff Healey shredding behind a protective chicken-wire cage while drunken truckers hurl glass mugs at each other. The whole movie feels like an after party at an abandoned Buc-ees in Kansas City.

Road House isn't a bad movie. It just happens to feature a stuffed polar bear falling on a corrupt businessman. And that is why we are still talking about it thirty-seven years later while the other films of 1989 are forgotten.

Summer will be here before you know it, which means outdoor hangs are also on the horizon. Taking advantage of the nicer weather is an absolute must during this time of year, and having the right equipment and setup to enjoy it that much more is key. Having an outdoor table on deck is always a good idea, and one that is portable and simple to stow away in out-of-season storage when the time comes is an even better idea. Luckily, Five Below got the memo and just dropped a sleek new portable roll-up table that's perfect for outdoor get-togethers this summer.

Five Below's Portable Roll-Up Table is a total game changer for summertime and beyond. Measuring 19.76 inches by 20.98 inches by 19.5 inches, this portable table can be used for so many different occasions. From playing a game of cards and enjoying a glass of vino to having a tasty picnic spread among friends, this table has your back.

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Portable Roll-Up Table, $15 at Five Below

Five Below

The big draw of this portable table is that it is easy to transport thanks to its convenient roll-up design. Once you're done using the table, all you need to do is roll it up and store it in the included storage bag. This makes it a cinch to store when not in use. Toss it in the corner of your garage, in a closet or in the back of your car—it breaks down into a more manageable footprint for any storage situation.

Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, you can bring this table in its included storage bag to the park, on a camping trip, to the beach or even set up inside when you need extra space for guests while hosting a get-together. The options are pretty much endless for this nifty thing. Oh, and it's super lightweight, making it a breeze for anyone to carry.

Plus, at just $15, this table won't break the bank.

Related: Five Below's 8-Piece Fluted Organizer Set Is Perfect for Sorting the Small Stuff

You can pick up this portable roll-up table at select Five Below stores now for just $15. Do note, though, that some assembly is required, but instructions are included.

If you're interested in other Five Below finds, be sure to check out this 8-piece fluted organizer set that makes storage so elegant, this $5 Turkish throw that makes beautifully functional home decor, this charming washable area rug that's the perfect pop of dopamine decor or this retro-inspired record player that went viral.

Related: Five Below's 3-Pack of Puck Lights Will Brighten Up Your Home's Organization

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It’s just about the unofficial start of summer, which means backyards become dining rooms, friends stay later than planned, and somehow the best meals happen outside. I was so excited to sit down and chat with one of my personal favorite content creators, Tessa Sinatro (aka @lambchop 97 to her 1M TikTok followers and 503K Instagram followers) about the outdoor cooking setup that completely transformed the way she is hosting her loved ones all season long.

Between the Currentelectric grill and pizza oven taking over her backyard this summer, Sinatro says outdoor cooking has become less about managing the cook and more about creating a relaxed, food-filled experience people actually want to gather around.

Sinatro found herself in the culinary content space somewhat by accident. While working as a PE teacher in Connecticut, she loved coming home at the end of the day and cooking elaborate meals for her family. She started casually sharing those meals online, and before long, her approachable cooking style struck a chord with millions of viewers.

Along the way, she met her fiancée, Carly Shapiro, who you may know as one-third of @sistersnacking, through TikTok, where the two quickly realized they had a lot more in common than just a love of food. Now, the pair are gearing up for a summer filled with backyard hangs, easy entertaining and cooking outdoors together.

Courtesy Tessa Sinatro

For Sinatro, outdoor cooking isn’t about creating a perfectly curated dinner party. It’s about making people feel comfortable, involved and excited to gather around food. This summer, she’s especially excited about her Current electric outdoor cooking appliances, including the Model G2 Electric Grill and the Model P+ Pizza Oven, which she says have made hosting feel easier.

Her approach to entertaining is all about keeping things approachable, so in her own famous words: “Let’s get into it!"

Related: 62 Easy Summer Dessert Ideas

Why Tessa Sinatro Loves Cooking Outdoors

Courtesy Current

For Sinatro, cooking outside instantly changes the energy of a gathering. Instead of feeling confined to a kitchen, outdoor cooking naturally becomes more collaborative and relaxed.

“Once you leave the kitchen, it becomes way more interactive,” she tells Parade. “Everybody feels like they can jump in. It’s more comfortable and casual.”

She also loves the creative freedom that comes with cooking outside, especially as a content creator. Natural light, open space, and the laid-back atmosphere all play into the experience. Instead of running back and forth between the kitchen and patio, she’s embraced bringing the entire cooking setup outdoors.

“I’ve literally been moving everything outside—cutting board, prep table, all of it,” she says. “Being outside, being one with nature, it’s the best.”

Related: 41 Best Summer Appetizers

The Backyard Upgrade That Changed Her Hosting Style

Courtesy Current

What surprised Sinatro the most about cooking with electric outdoor appliances was how much simpler the actual hosting process became.

“When you’re able to focus on just the cooking and not the coals, the flames, the heat, it’s so much more beneficial,” she says. “You can pour all the love and energy into the food.”

She admits she was initially skeptical about electric grilling altogether. As someone whose online brand is deeply tied to food and cooking, she’s careful about what products she uses publicly.

“I’m very particular about who I work with because that’s my name and reputation,” Sinatro explains. “An electric grill? I was super skeptical. But once I got my hands on it, I was like, ‘Oh damn, this is actually really great.’”

The Model G2 Electric Grill especially stood out to her for its simplicity and consistency. The grill uses dual-zone electric heating for even cooking temperatures, while the app-connected controls help monitor heat and timing without constantly hovering over the grill.

Related: 59 Easy Grilling Ideas To Make This Summer Your Most Delicious Yet

What She’s Cooking All Summer Long

Courtesy Current

When it comes to outdoor cooking, Sinatro gravitates toward foods that naturally encourage sharing.

“Steak, always steak,” she says. “Salmon, chicken thighs—anything that can be presented in an open format for a group when you’re hosting.”

Interactive meals are a major part of her entertaining style. She loves dishes that invite people to build plates, assemble bites, and linger around the table longer.

One of her favorite ideas is marinated skirt steak served with julienned vegetables, lettuce cups and plenty of toppings for DIY wraps. Another go-to is cedar plank salmon paired with sushi rice, nori sheets, cucumber and avocado, so guests can build their own hand rolls.

“It always hits when people can kind of make things themselves,” she says.

She’s also been experimenting with the Model P+ Pizza Oven far beyond pizza night. One of her biggest surprises? Homemade naan.

“They puffed up like I was a professional naan maker” she says with a laugh. “I was shocked.”

According to Sinatro, breads, calzones and stromboli all work especially well in the high-heat oven.

Related: The 30 Best Side Dishes to Serve With Barbecue Ribs

Her Favorite Outdoor Entertaining Tips

For Sinatro and her family, food is at the center of nearly every gathering, especially during summers spent at their Rhode Island beach house.

“We wake up in the morning and immediately talk about what we’re having for breakfast, lunch and dinner,” she says. “We’re definitely a food-forward family.”

At night, everyone naturally gathers outside, helping prep ingredients, watching the grill and lingering around the cooking process itself.

“We’re all involved, we’re all cooking and it becomes such a fun collaborative experience,” she tells Parade.

That sense of participation is what she believes makes outdoor entertaining feel less stressful and more memorable.

Related: 55 Backyard BBQ Potluck Ideas to Ensure Your Summer Parties Are on Point

The Biggest Surprise About Using an Electric Outdoor Pizza Oven and Grill

One thing Sinatro didn’t expect was how consistent the heat stayed throughout the entire cooking process.

“With the grill, when you lift the top, you expect the heat to really decrease,” she says. “But it stays ripping.”

She noticed the same thing with the pizza oven, especially when cooking multiple dishes back-to-back for guests.

“Normally with pizza ovens, you have to wait a long time before putting in the next item,” she explains. “That’s not the case here, which is awesome for hosting because everything comes out quickly and consistently.”

Related: 26 Red, White and Blue Desserts to Celebrate Memorial Day in Patriotic Style

What She Recommends for First-Time Outdoor Cooks

Sinatro’s biggest piece of advice for anyone intimidated by outdoor cooking is simple: just start. “I’m a huge girls-who-grill advocate,” she tells Parade. “I love seeing women get out there and grill.”

She encourages beginners not to overthink the process or worry about getting everything perfect right away. “If you make a mistake, that’s okay,” she says. “You learn the most from your mistakes.”

Her biggest tips? Let the grill fully preheat, practice patience throughout the cook, and don’t forget to rest your meat before slicing. Sinatro also recommends rubbing grill grates with a cut onion before cooking for a little extra flavor.

But ultimately, she says the beauty of outdoor cooking is that it should feel enjoyable...not stressful.

“Luckily, there [aren 't] too many tips to give,” she says. “It’s so user-friendly that there's little room for error.”

As Sinatro continues to build a career around bringing people together through approachable, feel-good food content, it’s clear her outdoor setup has become more than just a cooking space, it’s become part of how she creates connection. Whether she’s hosting friends for pizza night, grilling an easy weeknight dinner, or simply spending more time outside with family, she says the right tools have completely changed the experience.

And for anyone looking to refresh their own backyard setup this summer, Current is currently offering up to 30% off sitewide during its Memorial Day Sale through May 29. Happy summer grilling!

Up Next:

Related: The Genius Way To Make Lamb Burgers Taste 10x Better

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You can never go wrong with comfortable pajamas. Finding the right pair, though, can be tricky. They may be cute but not as soft as you'd like, or vice versa. With the Ekouaer Pajama Set on Amazon, you're winning on all counts. Not only are they cute and comfortable, but you can get two sets for just $30 (down from the original $50) ahead of Memorial Day.

This deal is well worth taking advantage of if you're on the hunt for some high-quality pajamas that shoppers called "light" enough for spring and summer. Even if pajamas weren't on your wishlist before, they may be after you see this stylish duo with over 1,300 five-star ratings. You can take your pick from several "gorgeous" color options, like an all-black set matched with a black and leopard set. There are also floral, moon, star, and plaid options available, and that's just a sampling!

Ekouaer 2-Pack Pajama Set, From $20 (was $50) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

Made from a blend of polyester and spandex, this set feels as good as it looks. "Soft, silky, stretchy, and good quality material," raved one shopper. That alone may help you sleep soundly through the night! In addition to being "lightweight," the pajamas are also designed to wick moisture from your skin so you stay fresh even when it's hot.

The top's charming design features fluttery sleeves and a relaxed drape for an easy fit. The matching pants have a drawstring, allowing you to easily adjust them to your comfort while you snooze or lounge around the house. They even have pockets!

"Absolutely perfect pajamas," one reviewer said . "I am extremely happy with the way they fit! They're so nice — simply lovely!" Another agreed, adding, "Wow. These are so pretty I'm thinking of using them as regular clothing. They are so comfortable!"

Related: Gwyneth Paltrow Cooks In the Cutest Plaid Pajamas, and We Found Similar 2-Piece Sets Starting at $20 on Amazon

Plus, it's available in a very generous range of sizes from small to XXL. The pajamas are super easy to maintain, too — just toss them in the washing machine, dry as normal, and they'll emerge looking as good as they did on day one.

The only challenge may be choosing just one! At this price, though, the Ekouaer Pajama Set is a real steal — and such a fantastic addition to your sleepwear wardrobe. Snap it up before this limited time Memorial Day sale ends!

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.

As a hematologist and oncologist, Dr. Christopher Benton, MD specializes in leukemia and uses personalized medicine to treat each unique cancer. The way he sees it, it’s important to come up with a treatment plan specific to each individual patient; there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. It’s a perspective that has served him well as a provider, but it’s one he never expected to have to use for his own well-being.

Dr. Benton was in medical school when he discovered he had a bicuspid aortic valve, which is a congenital heart defect. The aortic valve is a critical, one-way gate to the heart and ensures that oxygen-rich blood flows through the body while preventing backward flow (referred to as regurgitation). A normal aortic valve has three flaps, or cusps. These flaps open and close to control blood flow. A bicuspid aortic valve, like Dr. Benton’s, has only two flaps.

Related: 'I'm a Cardiologist—This Is the Sleep Position That's Hardest On Your Heart'

For the most part, Dr. Benton’s heart defect didn’t impact him too much. But that changed when he was 50 and needed an urgent (and complicated) heart surgery. Parade talked to Dr. Benton about how he knew he needed heart surgery, and how he decided which doctor to trust with his life.

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Dr. Chris Benton

A Surprising Diagnosis 

Though Dr. Benton was born with a congenital heart defect, he didn’t know about it until 2003, when he was a medical student. He was doing an internal medicine rotation when medical students were offered to do a pulmonary function test, which is a noninvasive breathing test used to diagnose certain conditions such as lung disease. He volunteered, not thinking much of it. 

“My pulmonary function tests weren’t great. In fact, they were bad in some ways,” Dr. Benton says, admitting that he was surprised. He was young, exercised regularly and ate a healthy diet. Confused, Dr. Benton brought his test results to his primary care doctor, who ordered an echocardiogram, which is a sonogram of the heart. He and the cardiologist could see from the echocardiogram that he had a bicuspid aortic valve, which is how he was diagnosed.

This specific type of heart defect is underdiagnosed. Dr. Benton says that between 1% and 2% of the U.S. population have it, and many people live their whole lives without even knowing they have it.

Related: 'I'm a Cardiologist—Here's How Many Weeks You Need To Walk for To See a Difference In Heart Health'

While Dr. Benton didn’t notice any obvious symptoms that prompted him to go to the doctor, looking back, he says that he has always had less endurance than most other people his age. “In second grade, my mile time was one of the worst ones,” he says. Now, he knew why.

Since Dr. Benton was generally in good health, his doctors said that his heart defect should be monitored through yearly echocardiograms, but nothing else needed to be done—at least for the time being. So, for 20 years, Dr. Benton diligently got an annual echo.

In 2018, his cardiologist noticed a problem. Dr. Benton was experiencing regurgitation, which is backward blood flow. Instead of flowing forward to the body and lungs, blood was leaking backward, which was causing the heart to work harder. While it wasn’t a pressing issue yet, Dr. Benton’s doctor told him he would need surgery in the future. “I figured it would be when I was in my 60s, 70s or 80s,” Dr. Benton says. But that isn’t what ended up happening.

Related: The Heart-Healthy Habit Cardiologists Say People Quit Way Too Soon

Deciding Who To Trust With His Life

It was the fall of 2025 when Dr. Benton first started noticing heart palpitations. “I first noticed it after I did a yoga sculpt workout,” he says. Instead of brushing it off, he decided to see his cardiologist and get another echocardiogram, even though he’d been getting them every year.

The echo showed that the regurgitation had gotten worse. To allow his doctor to get a better look at his heart, Dr. Benton underwent a transesophageal echo, which is when a flexible probe is put down the esophagus. Since the esophagus is directly behind the heart, this provides a clearer image of the heart than an echocardiogram. The transesophageal echo showed that Dr. Benton had ruptured his mitral valve. 

This meant that he now had an issue with two of his valves. “My doctor told me I would need surgery within the next couple of months,” Dr. Benton says. If he didn’t get it, he would die.

Repairing two of his valves would be a major operation—and a pretty complicated one too. Dr. Benton literally had to put his life in someone’s hands. Who would he trust? He spent a few weeks meeting with three different cardiologists, who all had different approaches. Ultimately, Dr. Benton decided to work with Dr. Lars Svensson, MD, PhD, a cardiac surgeon at Cleveland Clinic. 

Only Dr. Lars Svensson felt confident the valves could be repaired, rather than replaced with mechanical or biological (animal or human tissue) valves. He also believed the aortic root could be repaired instead of replaced with a synthetic graft.

Dr. Svensson explained to Dr. Benton and his wife, Florencia, that he planned to use the less invasive J incision approach rather than conventional open-heart surgery. This technique reduces pain and accelerates recovery. Pioneered at Cleveland Clinic, it has been further refined by Dr. Svensson for complex heart repair.

A Long Recovery Journey

Dr. Benton had the surgery on December 8, 2025. Recovery has been bumpy. Two weeks after his surgery, Dr. Benton experienced atrial fibrillation, which is when the heart’s upper chambers beat irregularly, failing to coordinate with the lower chambers. It’s common for this to happen after a heart surgery like Dr. Benton’s, but it required him to be hospitalized for 36 hours. Fortunately, his heart reverted to regular heartbeats after Dr. Benton was given medication. Otherwise, his heart would have had to be shocked back to a normal rhythm. 

For his recovery plan, Dr. Benton has to complete 36 sessions of cardiac rehab; three sessions a week for three months. Currently, he’s done 30 of them, which means he’s almost at the end of his heart surgery journey. “It’s been really helpful in terms of seeing how hard I can safely push myself,” he says. Dr. Benton is already back to coaching his son’s baseball team and back at work. Soon, all his follow-up care will require is staying on top of his yearly echos, just like before.

Dr. Benton is married and has five kids, and he credits his family and faith for getting him through his challenging health journey. “Having a support network is a critical part of recovery,” he says. He tells Parade that his experience has made him a more compassionate doctor too. “I know what it’s like to be on the other side of things a little more,” he shares.

His experience shows the importance of listening to your body (he took his post-workout heart palpitations seriously) and going the extra step of researching the best healthcare providers you can trust with your health. Both cases require listening to your gut—or in Dr. Benton’s case, heart.

Up Next:

Related: ‘I’m a Cardiologist—This Is the First Thing I Always Look at in a Patient’s Lab Results'

Sources:

• Bicuspid Aortic Valve. Cleveland Clinic.
• Aortic Valve. Cleveland Clinic.
• Problem: Heart Valve Regurgitation. American Heart Association.
• Transesophageal Echocardiogram. Johns Hopkins Medicine.
• Mitral Valve. Cleveland Clinic.
• About Atrial Fibrillation. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

There are magnetic personalities, strong spirits, and souls who seem to embody a rare mix of both. According to numerology and astrology, four birth dates are the most likely to naturally radiate such magnetic strength. Whether they exude confidence, bring sympathetic healing, or inspire hope during challenging times, these influential people stand out from the crowd. Continue reading to see if your birthday is among them and to gain expert insights.

Which Birth Dates Are Most Magnetic and Strong?

Check for your birth date. Disregard birth months.

Born on the 8th— Strength That Only Gets More Powerful With Time

People born on the 8th possess a focused determination that helps them stay on track towards their goals. Instead of expecting life to be easy, they prepare for challenges by creating backup plans and gathering resources in case things don’t go as expected.

Their quiet yet authoritative presence is magnetic, naturally drawing others in and instilling trust. People feel confident in their ability to lead, whether it’s organizing group activities or solving problems during a crisis when others might feel lost. Ruled by Saturn, the planet of resilience, these individuals are natural leaders. They exhibit maturity, strength, and charisma that enable them to get things done without resorting to flashiness or aggression.

CURIOUS?: Which Famous Memoir Matches Your Birth Month

Born on the 15th — The Lover That Draws People In

With a path graced by Venus, the planet of love, these individuals are set for a charming disposition. Whether they're diplomatic during contentious conversations and help defuse tension, or spread kindness to everyone they meet, their emotional strength is often overlooked. Vulnerability is all too often seen as a weakness or underappreciated. However, only the strongest spirits can maintain such openness and demonstrate sensitivity in a rough-and-tough world.

People born on the 15th are synonymous with magnetism. With a divine heart, they bring others together and have a relationship-oriented nature that transforms lives. They possess the innate strength to find the silver lining in life's challenges, which makes them stronger than most. While they may not make their resilience obvious, if you care to ponder on their wisdom, you'll find a soul brave enough to turn grief into unbelievable compassion.

RELATE?: The 4 Birth Months That Make the Best Aunts

Born on the 19th — Influence That Commands Every Room

Shining bright like their ruler, the Sun, these individuals exude warmth. When life knocks us down, they don’t let it discourage them. Instead, they intuitively understand that confidence is crucial and the first step towards self-fulfillment in any goal.

People born on the 19th's strength may seem effortless, as they project a strong sense of self to others. However, this is not purely accidental or egotistical. These resilient spirits know that to maintain hope, achieve their goals, or guide others towards empowerment, it is essential to embrace positive thinking. Their upbeat philosophy and determined energy are magnetic, drawing even the most reserved personalities out of their shells.

FUN!: The One Thing You Need to Do This Summer, Based on Birth Date

Born on the 30th — Energy That Lifts Everyone Around Them

With a broad aura, those born on the 30th are meant to expand, not contract, during tough times. Lucky Jupiter, planet of philosophical blessings, rules these individuals. Therefore, their path is a combination of careful introspection and extroverted expression. Prioritizing soul-searching allows them to unravel mysteries and crack codes that befuddle most people.

However, they innately carry a sense that wisdom is only as powerful as it is shared. Others turn to this birth date for inspiration, guidance, or to open their horizons. As a true freedom-seeker, they encourage people to shoot for the stars and dream big. Their strength lies in their willpower. Refusing to give up on their values and hopes, they take bold steps and leaps of faith towards their ideals. How can you not be drawn to someone with such devotion to their potential and the ability to uplift others?

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