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Saturday Night Live has a long history of impressive talents trying out for the show, including such world-renowned comedians as Jim Carrey, Kevin Hart, Donald Glover and Lisa Kudrow, among countless others.

While rejection from the show is never easy, one notable SNL hopeful revealed the arduous process behind his rejection from the series, as discussed in length on a 2025 episode of Dana Carvey and David Spade’s Fly on the Wall podcast.

Though today known for his work as a successful stand-up comic and acclaimed comedic actor, Andrew Santino revealed that he initially tried to make a name for himself in the industry by auditioning for SNL prior to the 2013/2014 season.

At the time, Santino was testing opposite Pete Davidson, with the comedian believing he left a favorable impression on SNL producer Lorne Michaels, as evidenced by the fact that he received a call from Michaels inviting him back to New York for a one-on-one meeting. 

“I flew to New York, and I was like, is this it?” Santino recalled thinking. “Am I going to move to New York? Like, this is wild.”

Arriving at 30 Rock, Santino and Michaels sat in the latter’s office, where “we talked for an hour about Chicago. He loved talking about Chicago because he knew I was from Chicago. He ate popcorn.”

Following this, Michaels then brought Santino out to meet a number of people involved with the show. “And so I walked around and met all the writers,” Santino continued.

While all of this seemed like a promising set-up for an eventual job offer, Santino’s hopes were promptly crushed when Michaels delivered his rejection.

“I think you’re going to have a great career,” Santino remembered Michaels telling him. “I don’t think you’re the puzzle piece I’m looking for.”

Reacting to the story, Spade expressed disbelief that Michaels would go through all of that trouble only to reject Santino’s audition. “It’s like meeting the family of the girl who breaks up with you,” the former SNL player observed.

Fortunately, Santino explained that he doesn’t have any ill feelings about the rejection, explaining that he wasn’t surprised that Michaels ultimately settled on Davidson.

“Yeah, [Davidson[ is like a decade younger than us,” Santino said. “He was a kid. So I was like, ‘Yeah, they’re gonna pick this malleable, cute kid whose dad died in 9/11 versus a vulnerable redheaded crackpot.’”

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It’s beginning to be that wonderful but slightly awkward time of year when you’re chilly in the morning but sweating by, like, noon. It can be hard to dress appropriately as the seasons change, which is why finding versatile transition pieces you can layer is an absolute must. And if you love a cute dress, these new styles at Old Navy are perfect for going from summer to fall. Get ready for apple picking!

Old Navy’s Puff-Sleeve Smocked Mini Swing Dress comes in six cutesy prints that are so perfect for autumn, including a light pink plaid (pictured below), black gingham, green plaid, cream and brown plaid, a warm rust brown or black floral, giving you so many options to choose from. These dresses are available in inclusive regular sizes ranging from XS to 4X and in petite and tall sizes ranging from XS to XXL.

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Featuring a flattering square neckline and short, puffy sleeves, these dresses are pretty much cottagecore perfection—perfect for fall, but still cute for the last of summertime. The shirred tiered skirt adds a bit of dimension and movement to the piece. For fit, this is definitely on the looser side and hits at the thigh. (FYI, some shoppers did recommend sizing down for a better fit.)

This lightweight dress is perfect for layering, which makes it ideal for this time of year. You can pair it with a jean jacket or sweater and take off the outer layers as the weather warms up in the afternoon.

Related: Ulta Just Dropped a ‘Gorgeous’ New Cool-Toned Neutral Eyeshadow Palette That Is Perfect for Day or Night

The majority of reviews for these dresses are five stars, though some reviewers found them a bit loose. That said, other Old Navy shoppers didn’t find this to be a problem and simply sized down.

“Super cute and comfy, but definitely size down. I’m always a medium in this store, but the small fit perfectly,” said one fan in a five-star review on OldNavy.com.

“Smitten,” wrote another happy Old Navy customer in a five-star review on Old Navy’s website. “I am kind of glad I did not read the reviews, the dress is lovely (though I do agree that pockets would have been lovely)! The form is beautiful and I ordered multiple dresses in different patterns! My dresses fit true to size on my body (XL , 5 ft 4, DD)!”

You can find this perfect fall-to-summer transition dress on OldNavy.com or in select Old Navy stores. It is currently on sale for $23.99, marked down from its regular price of $39.99.

Related: Old Navy’s Pretty Chiffon Top Is Giving Stevie Nicks Vibes

Janie Bradford helped build Motown from the ground up.

One of the songs she co-wrote eventually found its way into the hands of The Beatles.

Bradford, an early Motown songwriter who co-wrote “Money (That’s What I Want)” with label founder Berry Gordy, died Aug. 21 at a Los Angeles hospital following an extended illness. She was 87.

Bradford joined Motown in 1958 as a receptionist after being introduced to Gordy through singer Jackie Wilson. Her role soon expanded beyond answering phones, and she became involved in the creative work that helped establish the fledgling label.

In 1959, Bradford and Gordy co-wrote “Money (That’s What I Want),” which was recorded by Barrett Strong. The song became Motown’s first major hit and helped put the young label on the musical map.

Four years later, The Beatles recorded their own version.

“Money” appeared as the closing track on the group’s 1963 album With the Beatles, giving the song a new life during the band’s rise to international fame. The group reportedly discovered Strong’s recording through a record shop connected to manager Brian Epstein.

The Beatles weren’t the only major group to record the song.

The Rolling Stones also put their spin on it, further demonstrating the influence Motown and American rhythm and blues had on the British rock explosion of the 1960s.

Bradford’s songwriting legacy extended beyond “Money.”

She co-wrote “Too Busy Thinking About My Baby,” first recorded by The Temptations and later made famous by Marvin Gaye, and wrote songs for artists including Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, Mary Wells and The Marvelettes.

Gordy remembered Bradford as one of the “original Motown family” and an unsung figure who helped make the company what it became.

RELATED: KISS Music Legend, Covered by the Melvins and Nirvana, Turns 77

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A great everyday bag doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. If you’re in the market for a compact, affordable carryall for school runs, quick errands, or your next getaway, Walmart shoppers are loving the Suncoda Sling Bag for its mix of function and style.

Even better, it’s currently on sale for as low as $2, making it an easy add to your cart. Despite its small size, the bag has just enough room for essentials like your phone, wallet, and keys. Plus, it has a comfortable crossbody strap that keeps everything within reach. With 17 colors to choose from, it’s easy to find one that fits your style — or grab a couple while the price is this low. Hundreds of shoppers had the bag in their carts at publication time!

Courtesy of Walmart

Made from durable, water-resistant polyester, this unisex bag is built for everyday use. It works just as well for running errands as it does for travel, thanks to its lightweight feel and practical design. The adjustable strap extends from 14 to 36 inches, allowing for a comfortable fit across a range of body types, and it can be worn multiple ways — including as a crossbody, shoulder bag, or backpack.

Inside, multiple compartments keep essentials like your phone, wallet, and keys neatly stored and within reach when you’re on the go. The bag is also compact, measuring just under 12 inches, which makes it a practical choice for family outings, day trips, hiking, or anytime you want to travel light.

“I love this little bag. It’s perfect when I just want to bring a couple things with me,” one reviewer wrote.

Many Walmart shoppers highlight how convenient and functional it is in everyday use. One reviewer shared, “I’m in a wheelchair, so I have trouble carrying a bag. This one fits comfortably over my shoulder. Another added, “If you’re looking for a cute bag at an extremely low price, this is your bag!”

Related: Shoppers Say This 12-Piece Mediterranean-Inspired Stoneware Dining Set Evokes ‘Joy and Happiness’

Whether you’re looking for an easy everyday carryall or just want a simple way to keep your essentials organized, the Suncoda Sling Bag is a great pick. With prices starting at just $2, you’ll want to scoop one up at Walmart in your favorite color before it runs out of stock. 

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Long before Ted Danson became one of television’s most beloved stars, all it took was one laugh to change the course of his life.

According to an exclusive interview with People, the Cheers icon recently reflected on the television moment that first made him dream of becoming an actor while attending the Television Academy’s 2026 Hall of Fame ceremony. 

It all started with an abandoned television.

Recalling his college days at Stanford University during his Hall of Fame acceptance speech, Danson said he found an old television someone had left outside his dorm.

“Someone didn’t want it, but it still worked,” he recalled. “So I took it up to my room. It was my first TV.”

When he plugged it in, he happened to catch one of the most iconic openings in television history.

“I turned it on, literally just in time to see Dick Van Dyke trip over the ottoman.”

Danson wasn’t describing a random episode of The Dick Van Dyke Show. He had tuned in just as the sitcom’s famous opening credits played, showing Van Dyke’s character, Rob Petrie, walking into his living room and stumbling over the ottoman before greeting viewers.
The brief bit of physical comedy became one of television’s most recognizable opening sequences — and for Danson, it became life-changing. 

“It was magic,” Danson said. “I was hooked.”

Not long afterward, he auditioned for a campus production of Bertolt Brecht’s Man Is Man, landing what he jokingly described as “the smallest part you could get and still be in the play.”

“But the light bulb had turned on,” he said. “I was an actor, and it made all of my life make sense all of a sudden.” 

John Johnson/HBO

More than five decades later, Danson has built one of television’s most celebrated careers, starring in Cheers, Becker, CSI, The Good Place and, most recently, Netflix’s A Man on the Inside, which has already been renewed for a third season. 

And remarkably, the actor who first inspired him could still become part of that journey.

During the same conversation with People, Danson was asked whether his longtime friend Van Dyke, who has publicly said he’d love to appear on A Man on the Inside, might eventually make a cameo.

Danson’s answer was immediate.

“If I were in charge, it would happen immediately.”

While acknowledging the decision ultimately belongs to creator Michael Schur and the show’s writers, Danson didn’t hide his admiration.

“Oh, I love that man,” he said, adding that he and his wife, Mary Steenburgen, recently visited Van Dyke at his home to record a podcast together. “It was one of the best days of our lives. It was so cool.” 

It’s a fitting full-circle moment.

While there are many romance novels out there that touch our hearts, some become standout classics that everyone has to read. Nicholas Sparks’ debut novel, The Notebook, is one of those.

It’s hard to believe that the book is turning 30 this year. It was published on Oct. 1, 1996, and in 2004, the movie starring Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling was released. In fact, it was this movie that put the two of them on the map to stardom, and it brought one of the biggest romance tropes TV shows and movies would recreate: the kiss in the rain.

The Notebook took six months to write, and it was based on a real love story. Sparks took inspiration from the marriage of his now ex-wife’s grandparents, one that lasted more than 60 years. It’s no wonder that it became an instant commercial success, and within the first week of its release, it hit The New York Times bestseller list.

While this would become Sparks’ first published novel, he wrote two novels in the 1980s that would go unpublished: The Passing in 1985 and The Royal Murders in 1989. And despite The Notebook becoming one of the biggest hits of its generation, it wasn’t a foregone conclusion that it would even be published.

The Notebook told the story of Noah and Allie’s relationship. It starts in the present day, with a man sharing the story with the woman we would late realize is his wife with Alzheimer’s Disease, and it would soon become clear that this was their story of how they met, fell in love, broke up, and found their way back to each other. Told through the eyes of the past and the present day, it brought a heartfelt tale of real love and not just romance.

This originally hit the “slush pile” at Theresa Park’s agency. She read the story and immediately became Sparks’ literary agent. The rest feels like history, going to show what it means to have the right person in your corner.

With the success of the novel, it was only a matter of time before it was transformed into a movie. In today’s world, it may have happened sooner, but it took eight years for the movie to be released, bringing the story of Noah and Allie to life on the screen. With a modest budget of $29 million, it wasn’t clear if this would succeed, but it became a worldwide sleeper hit, grossing $115 million, and it has gone on to cement itself as a “must-watch” movie for romance fans.

Since then, the story has been adapted into a Broadway musical, which debuted in 2024. There was an attempt to get a TV adaptation off the ground, and it was set to air on The CW network. In the end, the project was quietly abandoned due to creative differences.

Since his success with his debut, Sparks has gone on to publish 25 novels and two works of nonfiction, with 11 of his works being adapted into major motion pictures. His most recent novel was Remain, which he co-wrote with M. Night Shyamalan, who Sparks initially wanted to direct The Notebook. Remain has already been adapted into a movie, set for release on Feb. 5, 2027.

Related: 208-Year-Old Novel, Considered the First True Science Fiction Novel, Was Written Due to a Volcanic Event

Long before it became a Yacht Rock staple, “Undercover Angel” began in the quiet hours of a Los Angeles apartment.

Fresh off writing hits for other artists, including “Angie Baby” for Helen Reddy and “Rock and Roll Heaven” for the Righteous Brothers, songwriter Alan O’Day sat down to construct what he dubbed a “nocturnal novelette,” a fictional, late-night tale about a lonely man visited by a dream woman. O’Day never expected this imaginative tune to take over pop radio, but its breezy groove struck an instant chord with listeners in the summer of 1977.

In an interview with Classic Bands, O’Day discussed the song’s inspiration. He explained that the song’s title had a little-known genesis.

“Looking back on it, I think the word angel was invoked because of Charlie’s Angels, the TV show, but I didn’t really know that then. I just put the two words together, and I loved what it said, and I’ve got to write a song with the title, ‘Undercover Angel,'” he explained.

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O’Day added, “I started writing the story before I knew the title. “Crying on my pillow, lonely in my bed, then I heard a voice beside me, and she softly said, wonder is your night light…” I get this idea, a little bit like “Angie Baby”, that it was an out-of-body experience or something spiritual or mystical as well as sexual, but I didn’t know what the main point of the song was.”

He concluded that writing “Undercover Angel” probably took “a couple of weeks.”

Songfacts quoted the songwriter calling the tune a “nocturnal novelette.” The website added, “Released in February 1977, it went to No. 1 in America in July. Some radio stations refused to play it because of its sexual nature, but that helped create a buzz and send it up the charts.”

In an interview with the Soft Rock Cafe, O’Day shared, “You know, ‘Undercover Angel’ is kind of a corny song, and it’s kind of a sexy song, and it’s kind of an infantile song, and it sold two million copies.”

He added, “I think it’s a good song, and I am proud of its success. It was banned in Peoria, Illinois, as being too sexual, and I’ve always worn that as a badge of pride [laughs]. I had no illusions that I was creating great art; I’ve just always loved the idea of the little three-minute movie.”

The song’s cheerful, high-energy melody helped it cross over into modern pop culture decades later, landing spots on high-profile film soundtracks including 2000’s Charlie’s Angels and the 2011 thriller Super 8.

Alan O’Day died at 72 in May 2013.

Related: 1977 AM Country Classic, Written by Neil Diamond, Was Saved by Glen Campbell

Dog parents already know how much fur babies love to get a pup cup, and now, Dunkin’ and Bark are coming together for a first-ever dog drive thru experience that makes dogs’ Dunkin’ experience even sweeter in celebration of National Dog Day on Aug. 26.

The first-of-its-kind Dunkin’ for Dogs event will be held in Quincy, Mass., the location in which Dunkin’ was founded. For one day only, on Aug. 26, one lane of the 588 Washington St. Dunkin’ location in Quincy, Mass., will be designated solely for dogs. The offerings in that drive thru will include dog treats, limited-edition Dunkin’ x Bark bandanas and the opportunity to receive plush dog toys from the Dunkin’ x Bark collection with a donation to the Joy in Childhood Foundation.

In addition to the Quincy location, select locations nationwide will also offer limited-edition Dunkin’ x Bark bandanas and the plush toys from the Dunkin’ x Bark collection while supplies last. Those locations include:

• 1703 Third Ave., New York, N.Y.
• 3200 Yorba Linda Blvd., Fullerton, Calif.
• 1201 S Naper Blvd., Naperville, Ill.
• 7100 Kingery Hwy., Darien, Ill.
• 1060 Ogden Ave., Montgomery, Ill.

The Dunkin’ x Bark collection includes multiple plush toys inspired by Dunkin’ menu items. Those are:

• Dunkin’ Wake-Up Wrap Dog Toy: A two-in-one toy with two squeakers, a “whip-n-flip” bacon and a crinkle element, made to be suitable for hiding treats. This toy is available with a $14 donation to the Joy in Childhood Foundation.
• Dunkin’ Strawberry Dragonfruit Refresher & Donuts Dog Toy: A duo toy stuffed with fluff and featuring two squeakers, a t-shirt rope for tugging and a crinkle element. This toy is available with a $16 donation to the Joy in Childhood Foundation.
• Dunkin’ Iced Signature Latte & Chocolate Frosted Sprinkles Donut Dog Toy: An oversized toy with a half-donut squeaker, a crinkle element and a surprise inside. This toy is available with a $20 donation to the Joy in Childhood Foundation and is available exclusively online at bark.co/dunkin.

Dunkin' x Bark

The Joy in Childhood Foundation offers programming like Dogs for Joy, which places trained facility dogs in children’s hospitals nationwide. The full-time facility dogs support patients by teaching children how to take medication, offering comfort during medical interventions and providing motivation throughout treatment.

Former child star Raquel Lee Bolleau (née Raquel Lee) has come forward with allegations of having been repeatedly sexually assaulted by a former Disney employee while filming The Poof Point in 2001.

According to People, the actor, 39, filed a civil negligence lawsuit against The Walt Disney Company on Friday, Aug. 21. Lee claims in the lawsuit that an unnamed middle-aged man had sexually assaulted her on multiple occasions while filming the Disney movie when she was 14.

She also added that the former Disney employee had supplied her with alcohol and assaulted her in the hotel the cast and crew were staying at in Salt Lake City. Her claim also details an assault having taken place on a flight back to California.

According to the lawsuit, Lee also alleges that Disney had failed to protect the actor at the time, despite signs of something being wrong. It details that personnel had instructed the actor to “bond” with the unnamed employee, and production had separated her from her guardian. As a result, the actor was not properly supervised when the alleged assaults occurred.

Further details reveal that the employee would make inappropriate comments to Lee on set, like “last night was so good” and claims that Disney failed to intervene. Lee recounts how the alleged abuse drastically changed her behavior on set, and how she looked sick and intoxicated. She commented on how there was a “stark difference from the dedicated, studious, and diligent child actress who had joined the movie.”

Her lawsuit also alleges that Disney failed to protect her and blamed her for her deteriorating performance. The company reportedly called her “out of control,” which resulted in her upcoming role being cancelled instead of investigating the matter.

“Over the last decade, countless child actors have come forward to bravely share their experiences of abuse by adults in entertainment. As former government prosecutors, our message to the entertainment industry is simple: This conduct is inexcusable, and those involved — directly or indirectly — must be held accountable,” said Lee’s attorneys, Douglas Wigdor and Jane Kim.

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The exact amount Lee is unknown, but the lawsuit is seeking damages for economic loss and emotional distress. It’s also seeking punitive damages, attorneys’ fees, and other costs.

The 2001 film during which the alleged assaults occurred was a science fiction comedy movie based on a children’s novel of the same name. It starred Mark Curry, Dawnn Lewis, Tahj Mowry, and Lee, as the two parents enlist the help of their children as their experiment goes terribly wrong.

Besides The Poof Point, Lee was known for having appeared on Nickelodeon’s The Amanda Show during its first season. Fans will also recognize her voice as Nubia Gross in The Proud Family from 2001 to 2005. She reprised her role in 2022 for The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, help is available 24 hours a day through RAINN’s National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673.

Fall is almost here, which means there’s a world of seasonal flavors to work back into your mealtime routine. But when it comes to recreating your favorite sweet treats, there’s really only one place you should turn to upgrade your recipes with one fell swoop: Aldi.

Back with a fan-favorite lineup of nifty baking essentials, Aldi is gearing shoppers up to make some of the most adorable goodies of the year with the return of the Crofton Harvest Baking 2-Pack Pie Molds. Available in a variety of harvest-inspired shapes for just $3.99, this cutesy lineup makes it easy to give your favorite hand pies a festive twist, whether you’re baking for holiday entertaining or simply for yourself.

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Set to hit stores starting Wednesday, Aug. 26, the Crofton Harvest Baking 2-Pack Pie Molds couldn’t have dropped at a better time. Whether you’re snatching them up for yourself or gifting them to someone who’s always baking something new, this charming 2-pack lineup brings all the seasonal vibes with adorable molds like Pumpkin, Turkey and Pie.

Made completely of BPA-free plastic, each hinged press is designed to cut, fill and seal dough into individual pockets. The base cuts the dough, while the hinged top forms the pocket and crimps the edges shut around the filling. And depending on the shape you use, the end result makes for a charming display featuring some classic fall themes.

Related: Aldi’s Versatile Couch Table Just Got an Upgrade, and It’s Still Unrivaled in Small Spaces

Aldi

Adding to the charm of each set, these molds are top-rack dishwasher safe, though hand washing is the best way to ensure the plastic hinges survive through years of constant use. That said, they are designed specifically as meal-prepping tools, so they are not microwave-safe, no matter how tempting it might be to try.

Otherwise, there are a world of ways you can use these molds beyond traditional pie fillings. Use pie crust, puff pastry or crescent dough to make savory hand pies with meat, cheese or holiday leftovers, breakfast pockets with eggs, cheese and bacon or sweet desserts with fruit, cinnamon sugar and Nutella. 

You can even use the pie-shaped mold to create your own Uncrustables dupes. Just be sure to stick to thicker fillings to prevent leaks and brush the dough edges with egg wash or water before sealing for the best results. And if the mold doesn’t create a vent, remember to poke the tops of each hand pie with a fork before baking to let steam escape.

Keep your eyes peeled for their arrival this week. And while you’re there stocking up on new kitchen finds, check out Aldi’s Kirkton House 18×30 Fall Comfort Mat and Crofton Microwave Cookware Bacon Maker as well.

Related: Big Changes Are Coming to Walmart Stores Nationwide, and Shoppers Say It’s ‘About Time!’

Previously, The New York Times made quite a few headlines when their list of the best thrillers of the 21st century.

Drawing on the opinions of many of the publication’s most talented critics, the list was met with an unsurprisingly polarized response from readers, many of whom were quick to add their own titles to the list of candidates worth considering.

To counterbalance the list from their critics, The New York Times has just unveiled a brand-new readers’ choice list for the best thrillers of the 21st century, utilizing readers’ votes and collective feedback.

At the very top of the list, readers selected Stieg Larsson’s 2005 thriller, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, translated from original Swedish by Reg Keeland.

The first official novel in Larsson’s posthumous Millennium series, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo follows a struggling magazine writer and a genius computer hacker who work together to solve the decades-old mystery of a missing young woman.

Providing the basis for a 2009 film and a subsequent 2011 Hollywood adaptation starring Daniel Craig and Rooney Mara, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo was incredibly well-received at the time of its release, kicking the Millennium series off in grand fashion.

“Larsson’s Millennium juggernaut began here, with one of the more indelible literary creations of the 21st century: a goth-punk Swedish computer hacker named Lisbeth Salander whose technical brilliance is matched only by her antisocial tendencies,” The New York Times wrote in their description of the book.

“She’s an unlikely match for the middle-aged journalist Mikael Blomkvist, but when the pair are thrown together to research the long-ago disappearance of a wealthy industrialist’s great-niece, the cold case becomes a hot pursuit of truth and justice in a vast, spidery conspiracy,” the outlet continued.

Other books included in the readers’ choice of top 10 thrillers were Gone Girl, Mystic River, Slow Horses, Never Let Me Go, In the Woods, No Country for Old Men, Wolf Hall, The Constant Gardener and The Road.

In 1976, Linda Ronstadt was already one of the biggest stars in music when she put a song by a largely unknown 24-year-old songwriter at the end of her new album, Hasten Down the Wind.

The song was “Someone to Lay Down Beside Me,” written by Karla Bonoff, who wouldn’t release her own debut album until the following year.

Ronstadt didn’t stop with just one Bonoff song, either. Hasten Down the Wind included three of them: “Someone to Lay Down Beside Me,” “Lose Again” and “If He’s Ever Near.”

It was a remarkable showcase for a songwriter who had yet to establish herself as a solo recording artist, and it helped put Bonoff on the map.

Bonoff had already spent years trying to break into the Southern California music scene. She had begun writing songs as a teenager and later formed Bryndle with Kenny Edwards, Wendy Waldman and Andrew Gold. The group recorded an album for A&M Records, but it went unreleased. The connection to Ronstadt came through Edwards and Gold, who went on to play in her band.

According to Bonoff’s official biography, she played Ronstadt a demo of “Lose Again.” Ronstadt liked what she heard.

“Hey, you know that’s real good,” Bonoff recalled Ronstadt telling her. “What else have you got?”

One of the other songs Bonoff had was “Someone to Lay Down Beside Me.”

The haunting ballad explores loneliness and the difference between genuine emotional intimacy and simply having another person there to fill the void. Ronstadt recorded it at the Sound Factory in Hollywood in March 1976 with longtime producer Peter Asher.

There’s another fascinating wrinkle to the song’s origin: Bonoff told TIME in 1978 that she wrote “Someone to Lay Down Beside Me” after watching afternoon soap operas. In a rare burst of speed for a songwriter who described writing as difficult, she said the lyrics took only about 20 minutes.

Related: 1975 Hit, Written by Neil Young for an Album He Shelved, Became a Top 5 Hit for a ‘Dynamite’ Young Singer

Ronstadt’s decision to record so much of Bonoff’s material was part of a talent that her fellow musicians would later single out for praise.

In the 2019 documentary Linda Ronstadt: The Sound of My Voice, Bonoff discussed hearing what Ronstadt had done with “Lose Again,” which transformed her understated song into something much bigger.

“I couldn’t sing it like that,” Bonoff said.

Dolly Parton went even further in describing Ronstadt’s ability as an interpreter.

“Linda has the ability to hear a song and claim it,” Parton said in the documentary.

That ability was particularly important in Bonoff’s case. Ronstadt wasn’t reaching back for an established hit when she recorded “Someone to Lay Down Beside Me.” She was putting her considerable star power behind a songwriter most listeners didn’t yet know.

Hasten Down the Wind was released in August 1976, with “Someone to Lay Down Beside Me” closing the album. The song was subsequently released as a single that November, backed with Ronstadt’s rendition of Patsy Cline’s “Crazy.”

Billboard selected it as one of its Top Single Picks, calling it an “unusual choice for a Ronstadt single” and describing the recording as a “dark hued ballad with deeply provocative lyrics.”

It didn’t become one of Ronstadt’s blockbuster singles, peaking at No. 42 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 38 on the Adult Contemporary chart.

But for Bonoff, Ronstadt’s embrace of her songs was arguably more consequential than another Top 40 hit would have been for the already-established superstar.

Bonoff signed with Columbia Records as a solo artist in 1977. Her self-titled debut included her own recordings of all three songs Ronstadt had introduced on Hasten Down the Wind: “Someone to Lay Down Beside Me,” “Lose Again” and “If He’s Ever Near.”

In a 2026 interview, when asked what she likes best about what she does, Bonoff told the Ponte Vedra Recorder, “The fact that I can make a living making music and get to do what I love,” adding, “It’s more about gratitude at this point.”

Ronstadt and Bonoff’s musical connection didn’t end there. More than a decade later, Ronstadt recorded another Bonoff composition, “All My Life,” as a duet with Aaron Neville. The recording earned the pair the Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.

By then, Bonoff was no longer the unknown young songwriter whose demos had found their way to one of the biggest singers of the 1970s.

And “Someone to Lay Down Beside Me” had helped introduce her.

Related: Folk-Rock Icon, 79, Pens Emotional Letter to Fans For Milestone Reissue

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If you’re on the hunt for a cozy addition to your home, Amazon has an option that you’ll definitely want to check out. The Exclusivo Mezcla Fleece Throw Blanket is perfect for snuggling up on the couch or adding a layer of warmth to your bed this fall, and it’s selling for a steal of a price on Amazon! 

You can currently snag this throw blanket (measuring 50 inches by 70 inches) for as low as $9 by opting for the classic pink option. There are 17 other color varieties available — including gray, blue, black, white, and lilac. They’re all discounted to $15 or less right now, so you’ll snag a great deal no matter what. Made from soft jacquard flannel, this blanket is designed to keep you comfy throughout the year. 

Courtesy of Amazon

With over 8,000 five-star reviews, it’s evident that this is a popular pick with Amazon shoppers. This blanket is brushed to give it that extra soft and lightweight feel. In addition to the throw size, you can also find it in twin, queen, and king sizes.

Shoppers said they love this blanket for its softness and cozy feel. “Luxurious comfort on a grand scale,” one customer wrote. “Its soft flannel fleece texture provides an indulgent, skin-friendly touch. The blanket is lightweight, striking the perfect balance for year-round use.”

Additionally, many customers mentioned how lightweight the throw is while still managing to keep them warm. Reviewers also noted that the blanket is a great way to brighten up home decor thanks to its stylish design and wide array of color options that can mesh well with any space.

“Absolutely beautiful blanket! Not too thick. Not too thin. The color is spot on,” a customer commented.

Another bonus? The blanket is machine washable and can go in the dryer. These features make the upkeep extremely simple.

Related: Amazon’s ‘Versatile’ $13 Cotton Cardigan Offers ‘Breathable Coverage’ for Summer-to-Fall Weather

This $9 Amazon throw blanket is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for something comfy, cute, and budget-friendly. Its attractive price and great design make it a must-have for anyone looking to up their cozy game. Don’t miss your chance to score it on sale ahead of fall! For under $10, you might even be tempted to stock up on multiple colors.

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Tonight, The Wall hits a major milestone: 100 episodes. It’s been almost 10 years since the hit NBC game show first arrived on our screens, and in the near-decade since, we’ve seen hundreds of ordinary people drop thousands of balls, all in the pursuit of millions of dollars. And it’s an accomplishment that host Chris Hardwick does not take lightly.

“To get to do more than one season of any show is a really special thing,” he tells Parade in an exclusive interview. “But to just know that we’ve gotten to do it for you know 10 years and and over 100 episodes, it’s crazy. When I was growing up watching game shows or any television, 100 episodes meant, ‘Oh that show is like sticking around.’ It’s been weirdly emotional for me.”

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Hardwick, of course, is no stranger to a long-running success. The 54-year-old hosted Talking Dead for over a decade, which helped popularize the on-air aftershow. And his work on the comedy show @midnight hit a whopping 600 total episodes. It was while he was working on both of these series that he was approached about The Wall — an offer that he almost refused due to his schedule. But Hardwick credits a meeting with the show’s creator, Andrew Glassman, with getting him on board.

“He had basically mocked up the wall on a screen not much bigger than [a typical] wall,” he recounts. “The wall was like a computer graphic, and then there were colored balls that would bounce down. And we did it, and I was like, ‘Oh my god, this is really fun.'”

What ultimately drew Hardwick onto The Wall, however, wasn’t the thought of getting to create the world’s most chaotic game of Plinko, but to instead highlight relationships in a very pressurized situation.

“All the teams that came on were just these shining beautiful examples of humanity,” he explains. “I realized right away, ‘Oh my gosh, this isn’t just a flashy game show with big dollar amounts. It’s a really special human show.”

Indeed, across 100 episodes, The Wall has shone a spotlight on a variety of relationships, from longtime married couples to siblings to parents and children. But, starting in the second round, the pair is separated, with one person going into isolation to answer trivia questions, as well as decide for both of them if they’ll take the contract Hardwick opens them, or go for the big prize. And the host says that element of isolation is crucial to the success of The Wall.

Related: Two ‘Seinfeld’ Stars Are Competing on a Classic Game Show This Summer

“We always have our devices usually no more than a foot and a half from us, right?” he says. “So all of a sudden, you’re in a situation where you might reflexively reach for your phone that’s not there. We’re just so used to having these external hard drives that have the sum total of human knowledge and history at all times. And all of a sudden you’re just in a room where you can’t ask anyone; you’re just stuck with your own brain. And so to be in that situation again, where you don’t have that security blanket, must be incredibly surreal now more than ever.”

When asked about his favorite memory on the set of The Wall, Hardwick is hard-pressed to pick just one, considering the myriad people he’s interacted with on the set over the course of a decade.

“It’s a live concert where I am,” he explains. “I’m experiencing it in real time, and I’ve spent hours with them. So many of these moments just imprint on me are just talking to people, just having regular conversations with them about restaurants in their hometown, trying to get to know them, trying to figure out what makes them tick. People who’ve been lifelong givers, people who are selfless, how they thrive in the face of adversity. So there are like an infinite number of moments to me that I collect, lessons that I try to remember. Because everyone who comes on is just some shining example of humanity.”

One particularly luminescent example came in an episode from earlier this year. Steven Hardeman, an off-duty police officer who helped out during the events of 9/11, and his son Seth Hardeman competed in the Season 6 premiere. After ripping up the contract, the two went on to win over $1.6 million on the wall.

“The son was answering the trivia, and he was just convinced that he didn’t do a good job,” Hardwick recounts. “And I think he got most of the questions right. And [I loved] being able to tell him, ‘Hey, trust your gut, because you knew exactly what you were doing.” It was just that lesson of how easy it is for us to second-guess ourselves and talk ourselves out of things, and just learning that moment of just being present. It was just a joyful experience because he got to see how good he was, and he crushed it, and he they went home with all this money. It was just wonderful to be there for that, and also to remind ourselves of these moments when we can get down on ourselves, or we can second-guess, or we can have negative self-talk, give yourself a break, man! You’re doing okay.”

Given The Wall has reached 100 episodes, with no endpoint in sight, there’s no second-guessing the success of the concept. And, with Hardwick lending his skills as the host, no matter who enters the fray, it’s sure to be a ball.

Related: NBC Sets Fall Premiere Dates for 2026-27 Season, Including OneChicago Shows, ‘The Voice’ and ‘The Traitors: New Blood’

Martha Stewart is taking her domestic talents and sharp tongue to Netflix.

Stewart, 85, a legendary domestic goddess and entrepreneur, catapulted her business acumen into life as a Martha Stewart Living tycoon. On the heels of her successful documentary, Martha, the star is headed to Netflix with her podcast and a TV series.

Entertainment Weekly reported that The Martha Stewart Podcast will appear on Netflix starting Wednesday, Aug. 26 as part of iHeartMedia and Netflix’s video podcast partnership. The series will also be an audio podcast distributed by iHeartPodcasts, with video episodes available to watch on Netflix. But that’s not the only new venture.

Martha Cooks will hit Netflix on Tuesday, Aug. 25. The first guest will be Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian, who is married to tennis legend Serena Williams. Upcoming guests include Harlan Coben and Benny Blanco.

“I’m delighted to bring my podcast to Netflix, and with that, introduce the medium of video to the series,” Stewart said in a statement, EW continued. “Netflix is the perfect partner to share and amplify the thoughtful and informative conversations the show is known for with an even greater audience.”

Kristina Bumphrey / Getty Images

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The announcement of Stewart’s Netflix series comes right after Stewart threw shade at Meghan Markle‘s series. Last summer, Stewart shared her thoughts on Markle during another interview.

“Meghan, I don’t really know very well, and I hope she knows what she’s talking about,” Martha told Yahoo Lifestyle. “Authenticity, to me, is everything, and to be authentic and knowledgeable about your subject matter is extremely important.”

Still, Stewart made it clear that there’s plenty of space in the market for her successors.

“I don’t mind. Good luck,” she noted.

Markle and Prince Harry recently announced they would be moving back to the United Kingdom.

The news of Stewart’s partnership with Netflix isn’t surprising, considering the success of R.J. Cutler‘s Emmy-nominated 2024 documentary, Martha. The doc chronicled Stewart’s childhood, Wall Street career, divorce, and prison term. To see the trailer for the documentary, watch below.

Related: Martha Stewart Is Throwing Shade at Meghan Markle’s Cooking Show

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If you’ve been looking for an easy way to corral bulky bedding or piles of loose clothing to get your home in order ahead of a big move, or even just a new season, the Velvetsure Storage Tote Bag Set is a great choice that also happens to be a steal. Right now, the 24-gallon six-pack of bags is marked down in every color, marked down to just $30 on Amazon.

The set is available in nine single color packs, including black, blue, pink, teal, silver, aquamarine, and semi-transparent, as well as a multicolor option. Additionally, there are other size and quantity options (such as a 24-gallon 12-pack and a larger 40-gallon six-pack) if you need extra space.

Courtesy of Amazon

The 24-gallon bags measure 29 inches long by 14 inches wide by 13 inches high and hold up to 65 pounds. The larger 40-gallon version measures 35.43 inches long by 16.14 inches wide by 16.14 inches high and supports up to 150 pounds. All sizes are made from woven polypropylene and designed with reinforced handles, zipper closures, backpack-style straps, and a moistureproof coating for added durability.

What makes these especially useful is how quickly they simplify the messier parts of moving and storage. Instead of scrambling for boxes, tape, and mismatched bins, you can fill these, zip them shut, and stack them neatly. They also fold flat when not in use, so they won’t take up valuable closet or shelf space year-round.

Reviewers have said they’re “totally worth the money.” One shopper shared, “These are so helpful for moving,” while another noted they hold “way more than expected.” Others described them as “so versatile and well made,” with one reviewer adding, “I’m never going back to moving boxes again!”

Related: Amazon’s ‘Cute’ 3-Tier End Table Is an ‘Expensive’-Looking Storage Fix for Just $20

Beyond seasonal clothing swaps, they’re also handy to keep in the car for groceries, use for laundry runs, or stash extra linens and towels. Some people said they even use them to store gifts out of sight or organize holiday decor between seasons. Multiple reviewers shared that they’ve purchased the bags several times due to their great quality and value.

If you want a flexible storage option that works for moving days, seasonal swaps, and everyday clutter control, the Velvetsure Storage Tote Bag Set is worth considering. With multiple colors, sizes, and quantities available, it’s easy to find an option that fits your space and storage needs. Be sure to snag yours now while the $30 deal is still live on Amazon.

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New details about Brian Hickerson’s relationship with Hayden Panettiere are being revealed more than one week after the actress died.

Panettiere’s mom, Lesley Vogel, told The New York Times that Hickerson—who had dated Panettiere on and off since 2018—had pawned some of her belongings prior to her shocking death. Vogel said that she was “shocked” to learn that Hickerson was selling items, including a vintage guitar. Another source told the outlet the same thing.

Vogel also claimed that Hickerson was storing some of the Heroes star’s belongings in his storage unit.

According to TMZ, Hickerson filed Chapter 7 bankruptcy in July 2022, “listing assets totaling $25,700 and liabilities totaling around $60k.”

Hickerson and Panettiere’s relationship has been referred to as tumultuous, as it was marked by domestic violence allegations that resulted in Hickerson being arrested on several occasions.

“I am coming forward with the truth about what happened to me with the hope that my story will empower others in abusive relationships to get the help they need and deserve,” she said following one of Hickerson’s arrests in 2020, according to People. “I am prepared to do my part to make sure this man never hurts anyone again. I’m grateful for my support system, which helped me find the courage to regain my voice and my life.”

Despite the public being led to believe that Hickerson and Panettiere ended their relationship in 2022, the two reportedly stayed connected and eventually rekindled their romance.

““When I got the phone call from her saying, ‘I’m going to be with the person I love.’ And I said, I just lost it. I lost it. I could not believe that she had gone that far back, that he had been successful in reeling her back in with all of the things he had done to her,” Vogel said on Good Morning America.

In August 2026, Panettiere traveled to South Carolina with Hickerson. The day after they arrived, Hickerson and his brother Zach found her unresponsive in an Airbnb they had been staying in. Emergency personnel arrived, but despite attempting life-saving measures, the actress was pronounced dead at the scene. She was just 36 years old.

READ NEXT: Hayden Panettiere Appeared ‘Beaten Up’ as Firefighters Transported Her on a Gurney 2 Years Before She Died, Neighbor Says

One of Hollywood’s most celebrated actors took on a very different kind of role in the acclaimed Italian drama.

Hands Over the City, a 1963 film starring Rod Steiger, opened the 24th Venice International Film Festival 63 years ago today, on Aug. 24, 1963. The film would go on to win the festival’s prestigious Golden Lion, its top prize.

Directed by Italian filmmaker Francesco Rosi, Hands Over the City (Le mani sulla città) centers on Eduardo Nottola, a powerful real-estate developer and city councilman in Naples. Steiger plays the ruthless businessman, whose political influence becomes increasingly tangled with a controversial development project.

The movie opens with the collapse of a residential building near a construction site, setting off an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the disaster. The story then moves into the political world of Naples, where competing interests and allegations of corruption take center stage.

For Steiger, the role offered an opportunity to bring the intensity that had already made him one of Hollywood’s most respected character actors to an Italian production.

He had earned an Academy Award nomination for his performance in The Pawnbroker the following year and would win the Oscar for Best Actor in 1968 for In the Heat of the Night. His other notable films included On the Waterfront, The Longest Day, Doctor Zhivago and Waterloo.

Criterion Collection describes Steiger’s performance in Hands Over the City as “ferocious,” highlighting the actor’s portrayal of the scheming developer. The collection also notes that Rosi specifically used Steiger’s Hollywood persona to give the film an international star presence.

The film was not simply a showcase for Steiger, however. Rosi used the story as a pointed examination of political power, real-estate speculation and the rapid transformation of Naples.

Hands Over the City premiered in competition at the 24th Venice International Film Festival, which ran from Aug. 24 through Sept. 7, 1963. Rosi ultimately took home the Golden Lion for the film.

The honor helped establish Hands Over the City as one of Rosi’s defining works. Decades later, the film was included on an Italian Ministry of Cultural Heritage list of 100 Italian films considered important enough to be preserved.

More than six decades later, Hands Over the City remains a notable entry in both Rosi’s filmography and Steiger’s remarkable career. And while Steiger would go on to win an Oscar for one of his most famous American roles, his performance in this Italian political drama helped bring one of the era’s most acclaimed filmmakers a major international prize.

Steiger died on July 9, 2002, at the age of 77.

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Deciding whether a theme park ride is too overwhelming for a toddler, an older relative, or a traveler with sensory sensitivities has always involved a fair amount of guesswork. While posted warning boards list broad restrictions around heart conditions and height requirements, they rarely capture what it actually feels like once the lap bar locks into place.

Disney may be developing a high-tech solution to take that uncertainty out of the queue.

According to newly published patent documentation titled “Personalized Notification of Attractions Including User Preferences or Aversions,” the company is exploring a dynamic system that would allow guests to log specific sensory triggers—such as pitch-black rooms, flashing strobe lights, sudden drops, or claustrophobic spaces—into their mobile park profiles.

Rather than treating every rider to the exact same cookie-cutter presentation, the underlying software would cross-reference a traveler’s comfort boundaries against real-time ride data. If a match occurs, the system could send a discreet heads-up to a smartphone or wearable device before the moment happens, or even alter the physical show elements in real time.

Related: Disney’s Big Thunder Mountain Just Reopened—But It’s Already Facing a Major Hiccup

Where the concept truly pushes the envelope is what happens once you are already buckled into the ride vehicle.

Using precision location sensors and locked media timecodes, the proposed software could swap out intense imagery for gentler, substitute visual and audio scenes. On motion simulators and flight-based rides, the system could go a step further by communicating directly with onboard motion bases—softening abrupt altitude drops and g-forces for a grandparent riding with a young grandchild, or reducing sudden sensory shocks for guests on the autism spectrum.

Riders would also have the ability to calibrate their preferences on a sliding scale. A guest who is slightly uneasy around static spooky props might choose to keep the standard show intact, while someone with severe arachnophobia could flag aggressive crawling effects to trigger an automated warning before entering the queue.

Related: Disney Just Unveiled the Name for Its Completely Reimagined Space Mountain

While theme park operators regularly file forward-looking patents that remain experimental concepts, the initiative highlights how digital personalization and adaptive technology are shaping modern attraction design.

As theme park analyst Mike Valentino of BlogMickey.com observes, even if the dynamic vehicle modifications take years to materialize on physical tracks, the concept represents a major step forward for guest comfort: “As Disney continues to look for ways to be more accommodating to all guests, this would be one way to ensure that guests at least have the best information to make a decision.”

By combining predictive machine learning with real-time guest feedback, the technology hints at a future where families no longer have to split up at the ride entrance—allowing everyone to share the same magical experience at a comfort level that works for them.

Related: Disney’s Newest Lake Houses Are a Love Letter to Classic Disney Artistry

Former Indiana Pacers star Reggie Miller turns 61, marking the birthday of one of the NBA’s most famous shooters and clutch performers.

Born Reginald Wayne Miller on Aug. 24, 1965, in Riverside, California, Miller built a Hall of Fame career during 18 seasons with the Indiana Pacers. He became known around the league for his three-point shooting, late-game shots and fierce battles with the New York Knicks.

Those moments gave Miller one of basketball’s most famous nicknames: “The Knick Killer.”

Miller played his entire NBA career with Indiana from 1987 to 2005 and became a five-time NBA All-Star. His career later earned him a place in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012. In 2021, he was also named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team.

Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images

Miller’s No. 31 jersey has been retired by both the Pacers and UCLA, where he played college basketball before entering the NBA.

Miller’s rivalry with the New York Knicks helped define his career. One of his most famous games came during the 1994 Eastern Conference Finals. In Game 5 at Madison Square Garden, Miller scored 39 points, including 25 in the fourth quarter, as Indiana defeated New York 93-86.

The game also became known for Miller’s heated exchange with filmmaker and longtime Knicks fan Spike Lee, who was sitting courtside.

A year later, Miller delivered what remains one of the most famous late-game performances in NBA history.

On May 7, 1995, the Pacers trailed the Knicks 105-99 with 18.7 seconds remaining in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Miller then scored eight unanswered points in 8.9 seconds.

He hit a three-pointer, stole the Knicks’ inbound pass, and quickly made another three to tie the game. After New York missed two free throws, Miller grabbed the rebound, was fouled and made both free throws to give Indiana a 107-105 win.

The sequence became one of the biggest moments of Miller’s career and further cemented the “Knick Killer” nickname.

Chris Broussard once described Miller’s late-game ability by saying, “First and foremost, Reggie Miller is mad clutch. Ask Patrick Ewing and the New York Knicks.”

“No one has hit more unforgettable clutch shots. Reggie Miller is mad clutch.” 💯@Chris_Broussard explains why you kids just don’t know how good @ReggieMillerTNT was pic.twitter.com/QLbpGvSIYW

Miller’s playoff success was not limited to New York.

In the 1998 Eastern Conference Finals, the Pacers faced Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls. Indiana pushed the series to a Game 7, something few teams accomplished against Jordan’s Bulls during their championship years.

Miller also hit a game-winning three-pointer over Jordan in Game 4 to tie the series at 2-2.

Broussard later said of Miller’s performance: “Heck, ask Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls. Reggie once scored 13 points in the last 4.5 minutes of an Eastern Conference Finals game on a sprained ankle to upset the Bulls.”

The Bulls eventually won the series, but Miller and the Pacers made Jordan’s final championship run much more difficult.

Miller entered the NBA as the 11th overall pick in the 1987 draft. Some Pacers fans initially wanted Indiana native Steve Alford instead, but Miller soon became the franchise’s biggest star.

He stayed with the Pacers for all 18 seasons of his career, appearing in 1,389 games. He also led the NBA in free-throw percentage five times.

In June, Miller reflected on his biggest playoff disappointments during an appearance on The Dan Patrick Show. When asked whether he would rather change the result of Game 7 against the Bulls in 1998 or Game 4 of the 2000 NBA Finals, he chose the chance to beat Jordan in Chicago.

“Winning a Game 7 in Chicago versus, in my opinion, the greatest player of all time, I would probably take that again. Mark Jackson and I, that was our thinking, we wanted to retire Jordan,” Miller said.

Miller retired in 2005 and remains closely connected to basketball through broadcasting. As of the 2025-26 season, he serves as a lead NBA game analyst for NBC Sports following the league’s return to NBC and Peacock.

His playing days may be over, but the moments that made “Miller Time” famous remain a major part of NBA history.

Related: LeBron James’ Wife Savannah James Announces Career News