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'70s Rock Legend, Founder of an Influential Band From Cleveland, Turns 79
On Aug. 24, 1947, ’70s music icon Jimmy Fox—famously known for hiring Joe Walsh years before the Eagles did—was born. Today, Aug. 24, 2026, The James Gang founder, namesake, and drummer celebrates his 79th birthday.
The founding member, after whom the band is named, is the original drummer and the only constant member across all of the band’s lineups. Born in Cleveland, Fox reportedly picked up his first pair of drumsticks in fourth grade and never put them down.
By the tender age of eight, he had already begun taking music theory classes at the Cleveland Music School Settlement. “They were valuable to me because over and above what I actually learned there. I was already aspiring to be a drummer,” Fox said in an interview. “But my father was dead set against it, preferring that I choose a ‘musical’ instrument.” Eventually, though, he changed his dad’s mind.
The James Gang is one of classic rock’s earliest power trios, per Classic Rock Here and Now. Though the band’s members changed numerous times during a ~ten-year existence, rock historians and fans cite Walsh, Fox, and Dale Peters as the band’s definitive line-up. Fox’s groovy rhythms on James Gang Rides Again and Thirds are standout releases of his career.
Meanwhile, the band as a collective is known for radio hits like “Walk Away” and “Funk #49.”
Fox was also an early member of Cleveland pop band The Outsiders, known for “Time Won’t Let Me,” and has gained a wide range of diverse session credits with the likes of Eric Clapton, B.B. King, Stephen Stills, Chuck Mangione, and more.
Music aside, the drummer has explored a unique hobby for decades: collecting license plates. Stunningly, he once had a collection of thirty thousand plates. His affinity for the steel scraps was even turned into a book, published in 2019, entitled License Plates of the United States: A Pictorial History 1903 to the Present. “Not everyone can appreciate the fineries of a rusting hunk of old steel,” Fox wrote.
Next, 1986 Powerful Hit, a Cover of Their Own Rock Song, Revived Legendary Band Aerosmith’s Career
One Iconic Arc From ‘I Love Lucy’ Had To Have All Scripts Reviewed by a Priest, a Minister, and a Rabbi
A pregnancy arc doesn’t create too much drama behind-the-scenes on TV nowadays, but that wasn’t the case in the 1950s. When Lucille Ball learned that she was pregnant, the writers had to figure out what to do on I Love Lucy.
Write the pregnancy in? That’s something that would be considered in today’s world of scriptwriting. Sometimes, it wouldn’t be realistic for the characters, so the pregnancy is hidden, but many shows such as The Vampire Diaries and Nashville have written the pregnancies in to make it easier on filming.
I Love Lucy also wrote in a pregnancy, and it created problems for the network. This was in 1952, when the network executives at CBS were terrified about what it would mean for TV viewers. After all, pregnancy was considered a taboo subject; it was viewed as vulgar, and nobody wanted to write that in.
There was no way around it, but there were strict censors in place, including around the world, “pregnant.” It couldn’t be spoken on air, so the writers had to get creative. It led to characters saying “expecting” or “expectant” to describe Lucy’s “condition.”
One creative way to get around it all was to use the word “enceinte,” the French for pregnant. It was even used in the episode title, “Lucy Is Enceinte.”
circa 1955: American actor and comedian Lucille Ball receives a kiss on the cheek from her husband, Cuban-born bandleader and musician Desi Arnaz, on the set of their television series, ‘I Love Lucy’. (Photo by CBS Photo Archive/Getty Images)That’s not where the problems stopped, though! Every single script throughout the pregnancy arc had to be run past a priest, a minister, and a rabbi. It seems wild in today’s day and age that scripts would need to be approved by three members of different faiths, but it was considered important from a “morality” point of view.
Talking of “morality,” despite pregnancy, Lucy and Ricky still slept in separate twin beds in their bedroom. Fans had become used to seeing twin beds in bedrooms, and still would be for a short time after this, but did it make sense when it was clear the two were a married couple?
Despite all of this, people were interested in the arc. On Jan. 19, 1953, “Lucy Goes to the Hospital” aired. This was the episode in which Lucy gave birth to her and Ricky’s child, and it coincided with the exact date Ball gave birth to her real-life son, Desi Arnaz Jr. The birth was a planned C-section, allowing for the network to figure out a way to make the date extra special.
It ended up being a major draw in the ratings, with around 70% of U.S. households with a TV tuning in. That was around 44 million, and more than President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s inauguration the next day.
None of these events from I Love Lucy would see a change in television standards. The word “pregnant” remained censored until the 1960s, and it was a slow change, with writers slipping in the word here and there. It was only in the 1970s that everything shifted, and suddenly, the word was no longer taboo. In fact, the word was widely used to help bring focus to other “taboo” subjects, including miscarriage and abortion.
What I Love Lucy did prove was that audiences weren’t shocked or horrified to see a realistic story hit the airwaves. In fact, they supported it.
Stars of 1990s 'Brady Bunch Movie' Reveal They Weren't Fans of the Original Series: 'We Were All Too Cool for That'
The Brady Bunch might remain one of the beloved sitcoms in television history, but if you were to ask Gary Cole and Shelley Long, the stars of the two Brady Bunch movies were hardly fans of the original series.
As shared by People magazine, Long and Cole, who would of course go on to star in 1995’s The Brady Bunch Movie and its immediate follow-up A Very Brady Sequel, have both said over the years that weren’t avid viewers when it came to the long-running ABC comedy series, The Brady Bunch.
“I wasn’t really a Bradyite when it was first on the air,” Long once said in an interview with the Phoenix New Times back in 1995, right around the time The Brady Bunch Movie first arrived in theaters. “I wasn’t really watching any television then – I was trying to get my own career off the ground. But I heard about the Bradys, though. I knew they were doing their thing and America was talking about them.”
Similarly, Gary Cole said in a 2025 interview with Remind Magazine that he also rarely watched The Brady Bunch back in the late 1960s.
“When it came on the air, it was 1969, so I was in junior high school, and it was Friday night, which was significant,” Cole said.
“So I had one foot out the door on Friday nights, like most of my friends did,” the Office Space star continued. “So I was not in a situation where I was sitting around with my family, because I was beyond that. We were all too cool to do that then. But I do remember all my friends talking about Marcia, for obvious reasons, when you’re a teenage boy.”
Fortunately, in spite of the actors’ indifference to the source material, The Brady Bunch Movie went on to become a major financial success, grossing $54.1 million against an estimated budget of $11 million.
1989 Rock Song, Written by One of the 'Greatest' Supergroups of All Time Badlands, Is Still a Powerful Hit 37 Years Later
Badlands, the hard rock and heavy metal band, may have had a short-lived run, but the supergroup left behind a catalog that continues to stand the test of time, including the 1989 track “Dreams in the Dark.”
Named as one of the greatest supergroups of all time by BBC Music magazine, the quartet, composed of former Black Sabbath vocalist Ray Gillen on lead vocals, former Ozzy Osbourne member Jake E. Lee on lead guitar, Greg Chaisson on bass and Eric Singer on drums, delivered a unique sound that blended a bluesy, Led Zeppelin-inspired sound with explosive hair metal-style riffs.
Thirty-seven years after releasing the self-titled debut album, the band’s legacy continues to resonate with younger listeners.
While their first record secured No. 35 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 50 Greatest Hair Metal Albums of All Time, their standout song “Dreams in the Dark” showcased the band’s powerful hard rock sound.
Ray Gillen of the rock group Badlands during a portrait session in 1989Reddit contributors continue to praise the enduring legacy of the 1989 song.
“God, ray singing is so f–ng good. Jake e lee ripping on the guitar. These guys were amazing,” a commenter wrote, referring to “Dreams in the Dark.”
“First heard Dreams in the Dark on the radio, bought the cassette, then was blown away! Incredible Album!” one wrote.
“The bass player does a great job in this tune. Banger of a track!” another said.
Written as part of the band’s debut album, the song reflects on a once-happy romance that has fallen apart. Its lyrics capture the sadness of realizing that something that once felt like forever did not last.
View this post on Instagram“Never in my life, before or since, have I tried to write a hit single, but Dreams in the Dark was my attempt at writing a pop song,” Lee told Guitar World. “Without having pressure from the record company, I probably never would have written that song – but it’s a good song.”
Despite the track’s melancholic themes, it showcased the soaring vocals of the ex-Black Sabbath singer and the aggressive guitar work of the former Ozzy Osbourne member.
At the time, “Dreams in the Dark” received heavy rotation on MTV, giving the band high visibility but achieving only moderate chart success after peaking at No. 38 on the Mainstream Rock chart.
Despite this, Badlands’ legacy would not be complete without mentioning “Dreams in the Dark,” which remains one of the band’s signature anthems.
Related: 1972 No. 1 Hit by America Ranked Among ‘Greatest Soft Rock Songs’ of All Time
Bo Jackson, 'The Greatest Athlete Ever,' Poses With Beloved ’80s Icon, 60
If you’re a child of the ’70s or ’80s, you’ll remember an era when crossover TV episodes became must-see programming. Seeing our favorite characters collide, whether it was the Fonz dropping in on Joanie Loves Chachi or the Cheers characters visiting the bar on St. Elsewhere, fans couldn’t get enough of two different worlds coming together.
Bo Jackson, the famed athlete who dominated both the NFL and Major League Baseball in the 1980s and early 1990s, just gave fans the ultimate crossover: a reunion with another Chicago favorite, John Cusack.
John Cusack, the beloved Say Anything… star, 60, shared a photo of the recent reunion with Bo Jackson, writing, “Bo knows – the GREAT truly great – Bo Jackson at Sox park talking about the old days!”
John Cusack and Bo Jackson both became icons of the ’80s and ’90s, but in completely different arenas, making this one of those intriguing yet completely logical celebrity pairings.
View this post on InstagramCusack became one of the defining actors of his generation, starring in films including Say Anything…, Better Off Dead, Sixteen Candles, The Sure Thing and High Fidelity. Bo Jackson became one of the most watched and celebrated athletes of his era, the rare athlete who excelled in both professional football and baseball.
But the two share an even deeper connection than their ’80s and ’90s fame.
They share a deep love of Chicago, a love that is equally returned.
John Cusack and Bo Jackson Share a Chicago ConnectionJohn Cusack was born and raised in the Chicago area and has long been one of the city’s most recognizable celebrity sports fans. Cusack is particularly associated with the Chicago Cubs and has been a familiar face at Wrigley Field for years. He has also shared that he grew up watching both Chicago baseball teams and has been known to attend White Sox games as well.
Bo Jackson may not have been born in Chicago, but when his football career was cut short by a devastating hip injury, he returned to baseball with the Chicago White Sox. Jackson played for the team in 1991 and again in 1993, famously returning from hip replacement surgery and hitting a home run in his first at-bat back. He became the first athlete in professional sports history to compete with an artificial hip.
Fans were quick to celebrate the ultimate ’80s icon crossover.
“Two legends! But I’m a Kansas City native that moved to Chicago. Bo knows!! I have his bobblehead! But so JC is also a legend!” one fan wrote.
“Greatness knows greatness,” another gushed.
Another referenced Jackson’s infamous “Bo Knows” Nike campaign from the late ’80s, writing, “Bo knows John Cusack.”
Bo Jackson Became a Sports Legend in ChicagoFor both Bo Jackson and John Cusack, Chicago holds a special place in their careers and personal legacies.
For Jackson, the 1985 Heisman Trophy winner from Auburn who played for the Los Angeles Raiders while simultaneously pursuing a career in Major League Baseball, Chicago represents the city where the famed athlete was able to keep his legendary career alive following a potentially career-ending injury.
Bo Jackson’s career was defined by defying odds and achieving the impossible. In Chicago, he was able to do it once again and return from an injury that would have sidelined most athletes.
That larger-than-life reputation is still very much intact. Social media commenters were quick to call Jackson “the greatest athlete of all time,” along with simply calling him a “legend.”
John Cusack Became a Chicago Movie IconFor John Cusack, Chicago is not only where he grew up, but also where he first caught Hollywood’s attention.
Cusack starred in John Hughes’ directorial debut, Sixteen Candles, which was filmed in Chicago. He would go on to become one of the era’s most sought-after young actors, the unconventional everyman leading man who represented a different kind of movie hero.
Cusack has also remained outspoken about his love for all things Chicago. He is one of the city’s most high-profile celebrity sports fans, particularly when it comes to the Cubs.
In 2016, MLB noted that he attended 76 Cubs games during the regular season. He may be best known for his appearances at Wrigley Field, but Cusack has also been spotted at Bears and Bulls games, making him an equal-opportunity Chicago sports fan.
Two ’80s Icons, One Very Chicago Reunion @dudestalgiaTexas Rangers vs Chicago White Sox #bojackson #bojacksonbaseball #whitesoxbaseball #chicagowhitesox #homerun
♬ original sound – DudestalgiaCusack and Jackson have met over the years, but their recent reunion is a reminder of the staying power of two Chicago-connected icons.
One became famous on movie screens. The other became famous on football fields and baseball diamonds. Both became larger-than-life figures during the same era, and both remain instantly recognizable decades later.
And there’s something especially fitting about seeing them together in Chicago.
For fans who grew up with Say Anything… and “Bo Knows,” the photo is more than a celebrity snapshot. It feels like a little piece of the ’80s and ’90s somehow wandered back into the present.
Two legends. One city. And, apparently, Bo knows John Cusack.
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The Fated Person Who Changes Your Life, Based on Birth Date
Have you ever met someone and just knew they would change everything? Maybe this person was a romantic partner, such as a soulmate or twin flame, but it doesn’t have to be inherently romantic. Teachers, mentors, family members, friends, and more can have an equally powerful effect on your life. Usually, these individuals come in to teach you a spiritual lesson as part of your soul’s contract with them. They usually activate a karmic lesson your soul needs to undergo, so that you can align with your fate and destiny.
Spiritual experts and numerologists agree that the numerological energy of your birth date calls in a specific person. This person arrives to trigger immense spiritual transformation. However, not every birth date will share the same experience, because this person is unique to your spiritual journey. Read on to discover the person you’ll never forget after they change your life for birth dates 1 to 31.
This is the Person Who Changes Your Life, Based on Your Birth DateCheck if your date of birth is listed. Disregard birth months.
Born on the 1st, 10th, 19th, and 28th: The DoerLeading the way wasn’t always easy for those born on the 1st, 10th, 19th, and 28th. Despite being ruled by courageous 1, these birth dates had to learn to walk their own paths. They might have felt called to pursue a unique career, dream, or ambition, but felt too afraid to go after it. Luckily, these birth dates will find their bravery to pave their own way after meeting the Doer. The Doer comes into these birth dates’ lives to launch them forward by setting the example. The Doer likely started their own business, traveled alone, or simply dove into anything that sparked interest. People born on these dates would have been in awe of the Doer’s willingness not only to try anything, but to stick with it. Thanks to the Doer, these birth dates have the confidence and willpower to get the ball rolling.
Born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, and 29th: The IntuitiveHonoring one’s intuition can be tough and go for people born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, and 29th. These birth dates align with the moon, the astrological planet of intuition, as well as the empathy and discernment of 2. It’s no secret that these birth dates are deeply aware of their surroundings and those in it. However, they might struggle with trusting their gut feelings. Maybe their self-assurance went down after too many wrong turns, but thankfully, the Intuitive can help. The Intuitive is someone who has full confidence in their gut feelings and wisdom, so the Intuitive doesn’t hesitate to act. People born on these dates will regain their certainty and trust in their own sacred knowledge the more they spend time with the Intuitive.
Born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, and 30th: The StudentExploring one’s curiosity fades over time, even for those born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, and 30th. Despite being ruled by philosophical Jupiter and knowledgeable 3, these birth dates struggle making time for their interests. They might let life, work, and more get in the way of indulging in their intellectual pursuits. But this won’t last forever once the Student comes into their life. The Student might actually be a classmate, but they don’t have to be. Regardless of who the Student is, this person is excited to learn and hone their craft. Their dedication to reading, writing, researching, and more re-awakens these birth dates’ curiosity. People born on these dates might even find the confidence to continue their education or become published after meeting the Student.
RELATE?: The 3 Birth Months That Never Do Anything Halfway
Born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, and 31st: The WorkerPeople born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, and 31st want the stability and security that 4 has to offer. However, they’re often at odds with their ruling planet, Uranus, which represents chaos, rebellion, and change. These birth dates think they want steadiness, but they cannot help self-sabotaging their own success. People born on these dates claim it’s their need for change and freedom. Luckily, the Worker is here to help. The Worker is a dedicated, tenacious individual who keeps their eye on the prize. People with these birth dates are inspired by the Worker’s perseverance and patience, especially once the Worker achieves the success they’re seeking. Thankfully, the Worker can also show these birth dates that stability doesn’t have to be monotonous if these birth dates strike a balance with working hard and playing hard.
Born on the 5th, 14th, and 23rd: The RebelBeing individualistic is challenging for those born on the 5th, 14th, and 23rd. Numerologists say that this birth date embodies the authenticity and changeability of 5. They’re genuinely dynamic individuals with many interests and quirks. But their self-confidence faded as time went on. A desire to conform and fit dimmed their unique brilliance. However, all of this changes when the Rebel comes into their life. The Rebel has a strong personality and powerful presence that turns heads. Unlike others, the Rebel doesn’t care if they’re polarizing as long as they’re true to who they are. People born on these dates are in awe of the Rebel’s vivacity, creativity, and individuality. Even if the Rebel doesn’t stick around, this person ultimately reminds these birth dates that life’s too short to be anyone else but themselves.
Born on the 6th, 15th, and 24th: The LoverConnection is complicated for those born on the 6th, 15th, and 24th despite being ruled by Venus, the astrological planet of love. Romance, friendship, and family should come naturally. After all, numerology says these birth dates align with 6’s caring attitude and compassionate heart. People born on these dates give too much and take too little in return for the sake of maintaining their relationships. As a result, they struggle with setting boundaries and upholding their standards until they meet the Lover. The Lover teaches these individuals to be firmer in their relationships. The Lover is different, because this person pushes back on the idea of accepting the love these birth dates think they desire. Regardless of what happens with the Lover, this person will forever change how these birth dates approach and maintain relationships moving forward.
Born on the 7th, 16th, and 25th: The HermitHow hard is it to be alone? Well, those born on the 7th, 16th, and 25th have an uncomfortable relationship with solitude. According to numerology, they’re guided by the reflective qualities of 7. Although they may crave alone time, being alone might trigger something within them. These birth dates could feel guilty or anxious when they step away from the crowd. Thankfully, they’ll learn to find peace with being alone after meeting the Hermit. The Hermit is an interesting character, because this individual doesn’t befriend everyone. For whatever reason, the Hermit is drawn to these birth dates. The Hermit shows these individuals that there’s immense peace in being alone. People born on these dates will be more inspired to take time for themselves after seeing how fulfilling it can be by watching the Hermit.
NEXT: Your Birth Month, The Reminder You Need to Hear
Born on the 8th, 17th, and 26th: The BossEmbracing one’s personal, professional, and financial authority is a major karmic lesson for people born on the 8th, 17th, and 26th. Between being ruled by karmic Saturn and complex 8, these birth dates have to learn to strive for balance instead of control. Interestingly, the Boss will teach them how to do this. The Boss isn’t an inherently positive or negative authority figure, so the Boss likely falls into a complex gray area. Regardless, the Boss is meant to show these birth dates how to manage and hone one’s personal power. People born on these dates should watch how the Boss handles success and defeat. They should also take note of how the Boss manages their resources, particularly money. Through trial and error, these birth dates will learn what true power looks like through the Boss’ own plight.
Born on the 9th, 18th, and 27th: The AltruistBeing kind in a cruel world is difficult for those born on the 9th, 18th, and 27th. According to numerology, these birth dates naturally embody the compassion and spiritual evolution of 9. People born on these dates are typically selfless, compassionate individuals. However, their kindness might have been taken for granted one too many times. Plus, they could also feel discouraged if they feel like it’s not making a difference. Just when all hope is lost, the Altruist arrives. The Altruist is just like these birth dates, but the key difference is that the Altruist hasn’t lost their hope. The Altruist genuinely believes that each action or kind word has a positive ripple effect. However, the Altruist also has boundaries. People born on these dates will feel renewed by the Altruist, since this person will remind them to do good within their means.
UP NEXT:’
Steven Spielberg's Blockbuster Film Was Just Crowned 'The Best Thriller of All Time'
Throughout the history of cinema, audiences have flocked to thrillers to experience suspenseful mysteries and dangerous moments in the safety of a theater. However, while many thrillers are engaging watches, only a handful of films from the genre are considered movie masterpieces. For instance, the publication Collider showcased the best the genre has to offer with a ranking titled “the 35 best thrillers of all time.”
Some thrilling films included in the list, published on August 24, are Oldboy, released in 2003, 2007’s Zodiac, Se7en from 1995, and The Night of the Hunter from 1955. The list’s top five movies featured 2001’s Mulholland Drive, Parasite from 2019, The Silence of the Lambs from 1991, and 1960’s Psycho. The 1975 blockbuster Jaws, directed by Steven Spielberg, took home the title of “the best thriller of all time.”
According to Collider, Jaws, which has a score of 97 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, has plenty of tense and frightening scenes without being gratuitous or too flashy.
Steven Spielberg Shared Why He Was Immediately Interested in Directing ‘Jaws’In the 2025 National Geographic documentary, Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story, Spielberg shared that he came across the galley proof of Jaws, adapted from Peter Benchley‘s 1974 novel, when he was visiting film producer Richard Zanuck‘s office to discuss his next project.
“I looked at the top sheet, and it said Jaws, by Peter Benchley. And I had no idea what that meant, Jaws. I mean, was it the history of dentistry?” quipped the director. “I read it and I was enthralled.”
He then explained that he was immediately interested in directing the shark movie because it had a similar theme to his 1971 film, Duel.
“In a way, Jaws was a sequel to Duel. Duel was this murderous Leviathan on the highway trying to kill this traveling salesman in a little car. And Jaws is the story of this Leviathan of the sea that is rendering this seaside resort into bankruptcy unless they hire somebody to kill the threat,” explained Spielberg, now 79.
He said while he was told “there’s already a director assigned” to the movie, he was called in “a week or so later,” asking if he “want[ed] to do it.”
“I was as hungry as the shark was hungry to tell the story of Jaws. And I didn’t know how it was going to be done, how it could be done,” said Spielberg.
He said, however, that he knew that he “needed authenticity so the shark wouldn’t get laughed at” and “wanted to go to the natural environment so there was some kind of verisimilitude” for the film.
“So, it needed to be in the ocean, out to sea. And so, I knew somehow it had to be done on location,” said Spielberg during the interview for Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story.
Macy's 'Gorgeous' 60%-Off Fall Birthstone Earrings Are a Personalized Way to 'Look Like a Million Bucks'
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Birthstone jewelry has always had a little extra magic behind it. Unlike a trend piece you wear for a season and forget about, a birthstone accessory feels like it was picked with a story already attached — a nod to your birth month, a favorite person, a special memory, or simply a color that feels unmistakably you.
For anyone looking to add a little sparkle to their jewelry box without spending a fortune, Macy’s is making it easy with the Birthstone Cushion Halo Solitaire Stud Earrings. Originally $55, they’re now 60% off, bringing the price down to just $22. The sparkling halo design gives this pair a timeless feel, making them an easy choice for celebrating a milestone, and right now they’re on sale in a selection of fall birthstones.
Birthstone Cushion Halo Solitaire Stud Earrings, $22 (was $55) at Macy’s Shop at Macy'sThese halo stud earrings deliver the look of fine jewelry with a colorful, personal twist. Each earring features a cushion-cut simulated birthstone framed by a delicate halo of sparkling cubic zirconia, creating extra brilliance without overwhelming the center stone. The polished silver-plated setting keeps the vibrant gemstone looking crisp and luminous. Measuring just 5/16 inch in diameter, the studs are substantial enough to make a statement yet refined enough for everyday wear. Designed with secure push-back closures, they should stay comfortably in place from morning to night.
The collection is currently available in three birthstone-inspired colors, allowing you to choose a shade that celebrates your birth month or simply your favorite hue. For example, October’s opal-like stone offers a muted, rainbow-tinted hue, November’s citrine glows with warm honey-gold tones, and December’s blue topaz brings a rich blue pop that feels especially elegant. Whether you’re shopping for yourself, commemorating a birthday, or choosing a meaningful gift, the colorful stones give these classic studs a more personalized feel while remaining timeless enough to wear year-round.
The classic silhouette makes these earrings incredibly versatile to style, pairing just as effortlessly with a crisp white button-down and jeans as they do with a cocktail dress or tailored blazer. Wear them solo for a refined pop of color, or stack them with dainty huggies, pavé hoops, and simple cuffs if you have multiple piercings. Because each stone represents a birth month, they also layer beautifully with birthstone necklaces, initial pendants, and other meaningful jewelry for a look that feels both personal and polished.
Jewelry lovers shared their adoration for these “absolutely gorgeous” and “beautiful” studs in the reviews section, saying that the design makes them “look like a million bucks.” One Macy’s shopper said that the “very sparkly” cut garners “so many compliments.”
This is one birthday gift you don’t have to wait for. Shop the Birthstone Cushion Halo Solitaire Stud Earrings at Macy’s while they’re still 60% off!
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Anthony Hopkins Reveals the Music He's Written for 60 Years
For millions of moviegoers, his voice belongs to a screen villain talking about a questionable meal with fava beans and chianti. Learning that the same man has poured a lifetime of tenderness into music, largely away from the cameras, changes how you might see a man you thought you knew.
Anthony Hopkins released his album Life Is a Dream on Aug. 21 through Decca Classics, a collection of original compositions performed by the Philharmonia Orchestra and conducted by Grammy winner Gustavo Dudamel. The 12 pieces were written across more than six decades, some of them started when he was very young.
The Oscar winner, 88, was born in Port Talbot, Wales, and began playing piano at age four, long before acting entered the picture. He has said music was his first love, a passion that ran parallel to a screen career built on roles like Hannibal Lecter and his Academy Award-winning turn in The Father. He signed with Decca as a composer earlier this summer, according to the album’s release details.
Related: Barry Manilow Forced Off Stage, Cancels Two More Vegas Shows
The record is built from deeply personal source material. Its lead single, “Bracken Road,” comes from a suite Hopkins traces back to improvisations at an upright piano decades ago. Other works nod to his homeland, including a piece inspired by traditional Welsh melodies, while soloists including pianist Sergio Tiempo and cellist Gregorio Nieto join the orchestra across the program. The album runs about 67 minutes and folds in choral passages from the Bach Choir and the Boy Choristers of Winchester Cathedral.
Hopkins is releasing the album just a year after he and his wife lost their home in the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires, and he told ABC’s Classic Breakfast that one of his compositions was used at the reopening of a rebuilt Pacific Palisades village. He said he was glad his music could lift spirits, and noted the couple was preparing to move into a new home.
This is not his first venture into recorded music. Hopkins released a classical album called Composer in 2012 that topped the UK classical chart, and he previously performed his Life Is a Dream program with a full orchestra in Riyadh in early 2025. Hopkins has described the pieces as autobiographical and deeply personal. The new release formalizes that work with one of classical music’s most celebrated conductors at the podium.
I’m not generally a classical music listener, but I sat through the entire album (available on Spotify) and found it delightful. It’s a reminder that the people we watch on screen often carry entire creative lives we rarely get to hear.
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'RHOSLC’s Jen Shah Is Ready to Taste Freedom, But Do Fans Want Her Back on TV?
Jen Shah is getting closer to full freedom, but not everyone is ready to welcome the former Real Housewives of Salt Lake City star back to their screens.
Shah, who was sentenced to 78 months in prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, was released from federal prison in December 2025 and has been serving the remainder of her sentence under home confinement. Shah is anticipated to complete her sentence on Friday, Aug. 28, Page Six reports.
As that restriction nears its end, fans are already debating whether Bravo should give her another platform. Some are demanding she stay off RHOSLC, while others are calling for her return, proving Shah still knows how to divide the fanbase.
A source told Page Six that Shah wants to “put this chapter behind her, get back to work and continue her journey of making things right.” But how did fans react to that statement?
One person responded to Page Six’s X thread about Shah, asking if she plans to “pay back all the money she stole from seniors,” while another wondered what work she plans to do. Others were skeptical that prison and home confinement weren’t enough punishment for her crimes, arguing that she “hurt people” and destroyed their lives.
View this post on InstagramBeyond her plans to return to society, RHOSLC fans were divided over the possibility of Shah returning to the show. Some pointed out that if Teresa Giudice returned to The Real Housewives of New Jersey after serving her prison sentence, Shah should be able to do the same.
Some fans thought having Shah return could provide some delicious drama. “Can’t wait for her to knock on Heather Gay’s door!” one person wrote, while others suggested she return to give Gay another black eye.
Others, however, vowed never to watch RHOSLC again if producers allowed her back on the series. Of course, some fans also questioned why other Housewives have returned to their shows after serving time, while Shah seemingly isn’t being considered for a comeback.
For now, however, producers have remained firm in their decision not to allow Shah to return to the show.
'Fast & Furious' Stars Remember Late Actor Paul Walker 25 Years After Original Movie's Release: 'It’s Haunting for Us'
After two decades, several sequels and a spinoff film, the Fast & Furious franchise is officially celebrating its 25th anniversary.
With its original installment landing in theaters in summer 2001, the franchise has re-released The Fast and the Furious to celebrate the occasion. Along with the re-released film, a new clip focuses on series stars Vin Diesel and Jordana Brewster discussing the life and career of Paul Walker, one of the principal stars of the first six Fast films before his tragic death in 2013 (via Entertainment Weekly).
In said clip, Brewster said of Walker, “He was very private and authentic and grounded. But he would say, ‘If anyone comes up to me and they call me Brian, I open my arms and talk to them or sign whatever they want me to sign.’”
Diesel had similarly complimentary words to share about his late co-star.
“When the character you create consumes you, what happens when you say, ‘I will always be Brian,’” Diesel said. “If you come up to me and you say, ‘Hey Paul,’ I’m less apt; I know that you’re not really coming after me because of a character that I’ve invested so much of my heart into, so much of my soul into. So when he says, ‘I will always be Brian,’ it’s haunting for us, because he is always Brian.”
In a previous interview with Entertainment Weekly, Diesel went in to further detail about Walker’s personal affinity for being called his character’s name from the Fast films.
“To be the vessel of a character to this degree for decades, what you end up finding is that you’re pulling from your real life; it becomes that personal,” Diesel said at the time. “For so long he’s played this character, he’s adopted part of the character and the character’s adopted part of him. And maybe in this Fast universe, as complicated as it is, life is a little simpler.”
Country Star Ella Langley Officially Becomes Part Of Billboard Music History
Ella Langley‘s “Choosin’ Texas” has logged a 19th week at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, tying it for the longest run by a non-holiday song since the chart began in 1958.
The song matches two other modern-era juggernauts: Shaboozey’s “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” which spent 19 weeks on top in 2024, and Lil Nas X’s “Old Town Road,” featuring Billy Ray Cyrus, which also ran 19 weeks in 2019. The only song with a longer stay is Mariah Carey‘s “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” which has built up 22 weeks at No. 1 since 2019, though that total comes from returning to the top every holiday season rather than one continuous run.
All three record-tying songs share a pattern: each crossed over between country and pop radio while also becoming a streaming and sales powerhouse, a formula “Choosin’ Texas” has followed closely. The song is released on SAWGOD/Columbia Records, with Triple Tigers handling its promotion to country radio.
For the tracking week of Aug. 14-20, “Choosin’ Texas” pulled in 24.3 million official streams, 55.7 million radio airplay audience impressions and 7,000 in sales, according to Luminate data reported by Billboard. The streaming total slipped 3% week over week and sales dropped 10%, but airplay audience climbed 2%, a sign the song is still finding new listeners on radio even as its earliest streaming surge cools. The song also holds a 19th week atop the Streaming Songs chart and a 16th week at No. 1 on Digital Song Sales, while climbing to No. 5 on Radio Songs.
Beyond the Hot 100, “Choosin’ Texas” is having a rare multi-chart run: it’s spending a 37th week atop Hot Country Songs and a 12th week leading the Songs of the Summer chart, underscoring just how long this single has dominated multiple corners of the industry at once.
Kentucky Fast-Food Chain Launches Trendy New Snack After Closing Over 700 Locations
Established in 1969 in Lexington, Kentucky, the charming city was oozing bourbon and quintessential Southern staples. Being inland, it lacked a reliable seafood spot, so founders Warren Rosenthal and franchisee Jim Patterson went all in, forming what was to become the most recognizable fast-food seafood chain in the States.
Long John Silver’s has undergone a major downsizing since 2008, closing more than 700 locations across the U.S., but has gotten back into brainstorming mode to lure customers back in its remaining stores as same-store sales continue to climb.
Related: Domino’s Launches First-of-Its-Kind Pizza That Looks Surprisingly Familiar
Officially launching Aug. 24, 2026, a limited-time menu features an inflation-friendly Fish & Chicken Basket for only $6, capped off by The Cheesecake Factory Bakery’s Pumpkin Cheesecake to get your fall fix—but what about the appetizer?
Long John Silver’s is now offering Fried Pickles with a brand-name sauce for the perfect, tangy, crunchy bite.
Served with Ranch with OLD BAY — yes, the popular seafood seasoning — the pickles are crisped up with its signature batter that made the restaurant famous in the first place, putting a distinctly Long John Silver’s spin on one of the decade’s biggest food trends.
Related: McCormick’s Launches 3 New Seasoning Blends Perfect for Summer Cookouts
“Pickles are having a moment, but we weren’t interested in making just another Fried Pickle,” Long John Silver’s director of brand marketing Meredith Smith explained. “We batter fish for a living, so putting it on pickles felt like the obvious place to start. Then we paired them with Ranch with OLD BAY, and knew we had something special.”
Pickles, in general, are one of the trendiest snacks taking over menus. A 2025 study revealed pickle-forward menu items among the Top 100 quick-service restaurant brands had doubled year-over-year beginning in 2024.
'Friends' Star Shares Touching Scene Photo of 'Angel' Matthew Perry in Belated Birthday Message
Friends star Jane Sibbet, who played TV mom to character Ross Gellar’s son, Ben, took to social media with a heartwarming photo to remember the late Matthew Perry for his birthday.
The photo showed Sibbett and Perry, along with cast members David Schwimmer and Matt LeBlanc, in the sitcom’s iconic New York City apartment setting, and was complete with the caption noting her TV son’s gaze at the late star.
View this post on Instagram“Sweet memory. Look at Ben,” she wrote of the baby, played by Michael Gunderson. “He knows an angel. He knows brilliant light.”
Sibbett starred as Carol Willick in the show’s early seasons. Her character shared a son with Schwimmer’s character, Ross Gellar, her ex-husband. They co-parented as Willick fell in love with and married Susan Bunch, played by Jessica Hecht.
The actress went on to acknowledge that although she commemorated Perry’s birthday, August 19, a few days late, she encouraged her followers to donate to the Matthew Perry Foundation.
Fans in Sibbett’s comments also shared how they missed the late actor, known for his comedic timing and sarcasm on the show:
- “He was a light that will never fade, miss him everyday!” one said.
- “Thank you for sharing! His light remains bright despite losing him. He really was an angel” echoed another.
- “A beautiful memory! One to treasure!” said a third.
Related: Matthew Perry’s Mother Says Actor ‘Paid the Price’ for Trusting Former Assistant
Perry died in 2023 of a “acute effects of ketamine,” according to his autopsy. He would have been 57 this year. The Whole Nine Yards actor openly struggled with drug and alcohol addiction throughout the years.
The star’s mother, Suzanne Morrison, took to Instagram last week to commemorate his birthday with a touching message.
“Matthew was born 57 years ago today, a day that I feel as keenly as if all happened this very morning,” she wrote. “Along with all the days he struggled, and the days he hid his addiction from the world, and even from me. Sweet, loving, funny, cantankerous, pig-headed Matthew, who wanted – so much – to be well.”
News surrounding his death has continued to develop since his passing, as the drug dealer who sold Perry the ketamine that ultimately killed him was sentenced to 15 years in prison just this year, according to the Department of Justice.
Known as the “Ketamine Queen,” the drug dealer, who operated a “high-volume drug trafficking business out of her North Hollywood residence,” pled guilty in 2025.
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1967 Monkees Hit Became a Surprise Punk-Rock Favorite Nine Years Later
In the 1960s, the Monkees were known for a string of popular radio hits, including “I’m a Believer,” “Last Train to Clarksville” and “Daydream Believer.” But one of their most famous tunes got the punk rock treatment a decade after it was recorded.
“(I’m Not Your) Steppin’ Stone” was released by the Monkees on Nov. 12, 1966, as a B-side to “I’m a Believer.” It reached No. 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 in early 1967.
Written by Tommy Boyce and Bobby Hart, the song recorded by Micky Dolenz, Michael Nesmith, Peter Tork and Davy Jones had a harder rock edge than some of the band’s earlier bubblegum pop hits. So perhaps that’s why it drew the attention of punk rock legends the Sex Pistols.
In videos dating back to 1976, Sex Pistols singer Johnny Rotten can be seen covering the Monkees classic. The official Sex Pistols website also lists four dates that the Sex Pistols performed the song from June through August 1976 at shows in England.
The legendary punk band finally released their frantic version of the song on the 1979 soundtrack album for the movie The Great Rock ‘n’ Roll Swindle. Twenty years later, The Washington Post noted that the Sex Pistols “most convincingly” covered the Monkees hit.
Some of the Monkees bandmates agreed.
Nesmith was once asked about the Sex Pistols performing “Steppin’ Stone” onstage, and he told Blitz magazine, “That’s incredible!!”
In addition, Monkees drummer Tork cited the song’s harder edge in striking contrast to some of the band’s other hits.
“The songs that we got [in the ’60s] were really songs of some vigor and substance,” Tork told Entertainment Weekly in a 2016 interview. “‘(I’m Not Your) Steppin’ Stone’ is not peaches and cream. It comes down hard on the subject, poor girl.”
Tork also weighed in on the Sex Pistols cover, adding, “And the weight of the song is indicated by the fact that the Sex Pistols covered it. Anybody trying to write ’60s songs’ now thinks that you have to write ’59th St. Bridge.’ ‘Feeling groovy!’ Which is an OK song, but has not got a lot of guts. ‘Steppin’ Stone’ has guts.”
Sixty years after its release, ”(I’m Not Your) Steppin Stone” not only remains a Monkees classic but an unlikely Sex Pistols fan favorite too.
World Market's Hand-Carved 3-Door Storage Cabinet Is a 'Beautiful' Statement Piece for Any Space
Finding beautiful storage solutions helps make staying organized a bit more appealing, and this absolutely stunning option available right now at World Market will help you do just that. It is such a decorative and functional addition to any home. It honestly looks like a custom-made piece because of its unique, handcrafted construction. Your friends and family will be shocked to learn it’s from World Market.
World Market’s Craft Zian Hand-Carved Wood Floral 3-Door Storage Cabinet is a pretty artisanal storage piece that brings so much character to any space. The three-door cabinet features a stunning hand-carved cherry blossom face, making it feel unique and special. Floral handles add extra dimension and charm.
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Craft Zian Hand-Carved Wood Floral 3-Door Storage Cabinet, $1499.99 at World MarketWorld Market
Hand-crafted from mango wood with a warm walnut finish, this cabinet offers ample storage with one fixed shelf and two adjustable shelves, giving you six compartments total. Its overall dimensions are 54 inches in width, 19 inches in depth and 31 inches in height, and it weighs 125.66 pounds.
This is a truly original piece of furniture that can be used in so many different ways. You could opt to use it as an entertainment stand, a console table, a bar stand or a buffet. You could also use it in your home office, a hallway or even your bedroom. It is totally up to you how you want to style it and utilize its storage.
Related: World Market’s Chic Tiffany-Style Lamp Looks Like a Lucky Estate Sale Treasure
Shoppers love this gorgeous storage cabinet, giving it an average rating of five stars on WorldMarket.com. Fans appreciate this piece for its solid wood construction, handcrafting and quality.
“Beautiful solid wood piece,” said one happy World Market customer in a five-star review on WorldMarket.com. “This looks even better in person, solid wood and hand-crafted. Really high quality, especially for the price. Very heavy so will need help transporting it.”
You can find this absolutely gorgeous hand-carved cabinet on World Market’s website or in select World Market stores. It retails for $1499.99. (A bonus: it already comes fully assembled!)
Related: World Market’s Acacia Wood Scalloped Lazy Susan Is the Prettiest Kitchen Upgrade
'Coach' Star Craig T. Nelson Shares Touching Tribute to Late Costar and On-Screen Love Interest Shelley Fabares
Coach star Craig T. Nelson is breaking his silence on the news that his longtime co-star, Shelley Fabares, has passed away at the age of 82.
In a statement to Entertainment Weekly addressing Fabares’ recently announced death on August 23, Nelson said of the actress, “Shelley was a great and grand lady… just a rock. I will miss her. She was a foundational part of my life during the run of Coach.”
“She always had a smile,” the Incredibles actor continued. “She was welcoming in the midst of chaos and always someone I could go to for advice and counsel, not only myself but others as well. I’ll remember you with love, Shelley Fabares.”
As fans might recall, Nelson and Fabares starred alongside one another on the hit ABC sitcom for a total of nine seasons. In the context of the show, Nelson played college football coach Hayden Fox, while Fabares played Fox’s love interest, TV news anchor Christine Armstrong.
For her work on the series, Fabares was able to secure two Emmy nominations, while Nelson managed to snag a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in 1992.
Over the years, Fabares remained positive about her time working on Coach, describing it as a “fabulous experience” on a 2024 episode of the That’s Classic podcast.
“If somebody were to ask me what kind of show would I like to do — nobody was asking me for anything — but if they asked me, I would have actually expressed basically what Coach was, the kind of show, the character I would be playing, what the stories would be about . . . the way I would want to do a show, never dreaming that I would get that part,” Fabares said on the show.
She remained one of the series’ main stars until Coach‘s conclusion in 1997, along with lead roles opposite Elvis Presley in Girl Happy, Spinout and Clambake.
1973 Classic Song, Used to Revive Stevie Wonder from a Coma, Became a No.1 Hit
On a dark night in 1973, we almost lost one of the greatest musicians to ever live. Fresh off of the release of what would become the first of his three back-to-back “album of the year” winning records, “Innervisions,” Stevie Wonder collided with a logging truck on interstate 85, causing a log to crash through Wonder’s windshield, striking him in the head and sending him into a coma. Wonder was laying in the hospital for some time, not awaking for anything until Wonder’s tour director Ira Tucker began to sing one of Wonder’s songs to him. After some time, Wonder’s fingers began to drum along to the lyrics. That song was “Higher Ground.”
Wonder’s smash hit 1993 top charting single not only brought him massive commercial success, but it also brought him back to this world. The song hit No.1 on the R&B chart, and brought him to higher levels of superstardom. The song also kick started a trilogy of albums that can be considered possibly the greatest run of albums ever. For a song that is lyrically about about reincarnation, it seems it helped Wonder be reborn after his accident.
Following the accident, Wonder wasn’t sure if he’d be able to play again. There was a great concern that the accident would have destroyed any musical ability he had, but that was far from the truth. The incident ended up reinvigorating him, and showing him the beauty of the world around him. It would go on to inspire some incredible music going forward. “Higher Ground” effectively works as a great symbol of this whole story, as it is a transcendent and joyful song about the reinvention and journey of the self.
Thankfully we didn’t lose Stevie Wonder in that accident. He is one of the greatest musicians of all time. His music has spawned so much joy throughout the years, and there’s so much we would have lost had he not made it.
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Dunkin' Donuts Is Giving Away 1 Million Free Coffees on August 25—Here’s How to Claim Yours
Dunkin’ Donuts is giving away 1 million free coffees on Tuesday, Aug. 25!
The deal will give the first 1 million customers who claim the offer a free specialty/espresso or frozen drink. The promotion comes as Dunkin’ rolls out its fall menu, including the new Pumpkin Spice Signature Latte and Pumpkin Spice Cloud Dunkalatte.
Here’s everything to know about the free drink deal—and how to claim yours before the offer ends.
How to get a free coffee from Dunkin’The first 1 million customers to enter a promo code in the “Offers & Rewards” section of the Dunkin’ app on Tuesday will be able to redeem a free coffee. The code will be released on Dunkin’s social media accounts around midday Tuesday.
Once claimed, the offer can be redeemed through Sunday, Aug. 30.
RELATED: Starbucks Is Offering a Free Drink Upgrade—Here’s How to Get One
More Dunkin’ deals aheadDunkin’ has several more freebies and promotions coming up. On Aug. 30, customers can get a free mini tennis can with the purchase of a 3-count Munchkins order. Then, on Tuesday, Sept. 8, Dunkin’ will offer a free Pumpkin Spice Latte with any purchase, followed by a free mystery cup sleeve with any purchase on Tuesday, Sept. 22.
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Simone Biles Appears Happy, Healthy in Bikini Photos 2 Months After Medical Emergency
Simone Biles is all smiles.
The Olympic gold medalist shared a series of photos from a tropical getaway, and she appeared to be enjoying some well-deserved time in the sun. Biles posed in a bikini, spent time on the water and even showed off some of her signature athletic moves during the trip, doing a back flip from a boat into the turquoise waters with perfect form.
“Desperately looking for a vacation home,” Biles captioned the post.
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The fun getaway comes just two months after Biles suffered a medical emergency.
“I’m not one to normally share things like this because I value privacy in today’s age, but almost dying wasn’t on my bingo card this week,” she wrote on Instagram on June 6. “This was one of, if not the, scariest experience of my life, especially since Jonathan was in Indy for practices.”
“I’ve been in bed resting this week,” she continued, adding, “I’ll explain sooner or later, but [shout out] to my close circle who reached out, checked in, visited or sent flowers.”
Many fans have been waiting for Biles to share a health update, but the athlete has said that she’s not ready to talk about it—yet. In July, she underwent an undisclosed “procedure,” but she didn’t share those details publicly, either.
In the time since her health scare, Biles has returned to her normal routine. In addition to traveling the world, she and her husband, Jonathan Owens, attended Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s wedding in New York City on July 3. Biles has also been on-hand to cheer for her husband during the NFL pre-season.
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