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What began as a quick scribble on a napkin would go on to become one of the most defining and beloved songs of Garth Brooks’ career.

Released in 1990, "Friends in Low Places" quickly resonated with fans and helped solidify Brooks as one of country music’s biggest stars of the decade. Over the years, it has remained a standout in his catalog, consistently ranking among his most celebrated and enduring hits.

In a 2025 list comprised of The Best Garth Brooks Songs by Ranker, "Friends in Low Places" came out on top. The song has taken on a life far beyond its chart success, becoming a defining anthem in country music and a staple at concerts, bars, and celebrations alike.

According to Wide Open Country, Dewayne Blackwell and Earl Bud Lee penned the song while at a Nashville, Tennessee music event. They previously floated the verse "friends in low places" from an idea that came after they couldn't afford to pay a restaurant bill.

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Inspiration to write the song's lyrics came quick, but Blackwell and Lee didn't have any paper, only napkins. So they scribbled the lyrics on those temporarily.

According to American Songwriter, Lee admitted, “I’m not the best golfer in the world, but I can write a song. After a couple of bottles of champagne, the song just fell out on the bar. So, it was really a gift.”

RELATED: 1992 Garth Brooks Hit Was Inspired by the Soft Rock Sounds of This ’70s Legend

Brooks ended up recording the song for as a demo singer while working as a shoe salesman in Goodlettsville, Tennessee. He was contractually bound to songs included on his first LP, the self-titled Garth Brooks, but asked Lee and Blackwell to hold the song for him to record for his second album.

“Friends in Low Places” would become the first single from Brooks’ second studio album, No Fences. Brooks talked the song's success, as reported by Center Stage Mag.

RELATED: 2007: Garth Brooks Made Chart History With a Song Inspired by a Love Letter

“Well, the thing is, you’ve got to take what you’ve won and stick it back up on the table and gamble it again,” Brooks said of his success. "You have to.  Once you’ve made it, to sit there and ride it out? That might be for some people. But for me? Why was I given this? I was stupid enough to go: ‘I was given it to gamble it all again!’ Take those chances. Take those risks.” 

The song would go on reach No. 1 on Billboard's Country Music Chart in 1990 and spend four weeks at the top spot. The song followed the success of Brooks' first No. 1 hit, "If Tomorrow Never Comes" in late 1989 and the chart-topper "The Dance" in July 1990.

Garth Brooks is scheduled to perform at London's Hyde Park on June 27, 2026.

MORE: This Garth Brooks Tearjerker Might Be the Saddest Country Song Ever Recorded

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Furniture that gives your home extra storage space to tackle clutter and looks great while doing so can be a smart investment. If you're looking for a way to make your space feel more organized, but don't have room for a bulky cabinet or a multi-drawer dresser, a bookshelf can work wonders. Right now, Walmart has a limited-time flash deal on a spacious bookshelf for less than $40 that shoppers have loved using to organize small spaces throughout their homes. 

The Casacomoda 5-Tier Bookshelf is currently on sale for up to 51% off the usual $75 price. The best deal is on the vintage brown color for $37, but you can snag it in black for just a few dollars more at $40. There's also a six-tier version on sale for $44 in black or $47 in vintage brown. 

Casacomoda 5-Tier Bookshelf, From $37 (was $75) at Walmart Shop at Walmart

Designed with functionality and style in mind, this bookshelf is a standout for any room that needs extra storage and organization. The black powder-coated metal frame not only provides a durable and stable base for the unit, but also gives it a modern, industrial look that fits in seamlessly with a variety of home decor styles. The shelves are made of medium-density fiberboard with a water-resistant coating to protect the piece from spills and splashes. 

The bookshelf measures 56.7 inches tall, is 20 inches wide, and 9.5 inches deep, with five fixed shelves spaced 13.7 inches apart. Each shelf can hold up to 33 pounds, offering plenty of support for books, home decor, office supplies, kitchen appliances, and more. Reviewers raved about how quickly they were able to put together this piece, with the majority taking less than 20 minutes to complete.

Related: Walmart’s 'Beautiful' $180 Tall Rattan Storage Cabinet 'Fits Perfectly' in Small Spaces

Shoppers loved that the size is "perfect" for small spaces like dorm rooms, offices, and apartments. One reviewer called the design "beautiful" and said it looked "absolutely stunning" in their living room. Another said it was a "cute" way to add extra storage space to their kitchen.

From those who used it to store craft supplies to families who used it to hold gaming consoles, puzzles, and board games, shoppers said this bookshelf is a "sturdy" spot for organizing so many things. Several reviewers noted that it "works well as a display case" for collectibles, memorabilia, LEGO builds, decor, and more.

Shop More Deals

• EDX 3-Tier Bookcase, $25 (was $46) at Walmart
• Casacomoda 6-Tier Lighted Tree Bookshelf, $33 (was $55) at Walmart
• Costway Desktop Bookshelf, $52 (was $119) at Walmart

Whether you use it as a shoe rack in your entryway, to display framed photos and books in your office, or as extra storage for toiletries and linens in the bathroom, this bookcase can truly do it all. Walmart flash deals don't last long, so be sure to snag the Casacomoda 5-Tier Bookshelf for just $37 while you still can!

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The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon sparked excitement after the show teased fans with a special guest lineup in the upcoming episode.

The NBC show had featured a slew of notable individuals, from legendary Hollywood stars and political figures to influential sports personalities and more.

However, the forthcoming episode takes a different turn, bringing in a rare guest lineup that sets it apart from the show's usual late-night appearances.

In an Instagram post, the award-winning program announced that NASA’s Artemis II crew will be making a special appearance on the show, marking their first late-night interview since the historic mission.

Artemis II Commander Reid Wiseman, Pilot Victor Glover, Mission Specialist Christina Koch, and Mission Specialist Jeremy Hansen pose for a portrait after a press conference at the NASA Johnson Space Center on April 16, 2026 in Houston, Texas.

Danielle Villasana/Getty Images)

“@nasaartemis II astronauts Commander @astro_reid, Pilot @astrovicglover, Mission Specialist @astro_christina, and Mission Specialist @astrojeremy make their Tonight Show debuts on Thursday, April 30th at 11:35/10:35c on @nbc!” the caption reads.

The announcement fueled major buzz online with fans expressing how thrilled they are for the upcoming episode.

“Can’t wait to see this on Thursday," one wrote.

“Now those are guests I am excited to see!!” a follower remarked.

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“I will not miss THIS!” an excited fan mentioned.

“The guest list of Jimmy's show is going crazy nowwwww,” another said.

One fan even mentioned the trending dance cover of Christina Koch, noting, “Make Christina recreate her viral TikTok dance!!!”

Meanwhile, a commenter praised the announcement for the guest lineup, writing, “Yaaaassss!!!! The whole show. All astronauts. We deserve this.”

On April 1, the Artemis II crew officially started their 10-day mission to the moon from Launch Complex 39B at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

The primary goal of the expedition was to “serve as a crewed test flight to validate the systems and procedures necessary for humans to safely explore deep space,” as cited by NASA. “It acted as a critical bridge between the uncrewed Artemis I mission and future lunar landings.”

Following the 10-day mission, the Artemis II crew, traveling aboard the Orion spacecraft, broke the record for the farthest distance traveled in human spaceflight, previously set by the Apollo 13 mission 56 years ago.

In addition, the recent expedition marked the first time in history that the crew featured a diverse four-person team, which included a woman, a person of color, and a non-American astronaut.

As the upcoming episode of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon draws near, many are looking forward to the memorable conversation and stories from NASA’s mission team, eager to hear firsthand accounts of their historic journey.

Related: 'Charlie's Angels’ Star, 57, Stuns With Her Appearance on Jimmy Fallon's Show

Ross Bagdasarian, who used the stage name David Seville, is most famous for creating the cartoon band, Alvin and the Chipmunks. He also performed on Broadway and appeared in Alfred Hitchcock’s Rear Window as a pianist. But one of his earliest accomplishments was writing and performing the hit novelty song, “Witch Doctor,” which became a Billboard No. 1 single 68 years ago today. It went on to sell 1.5 million copies. 

The song was inspired by a book that was sitting on Bagdasarian’s shelf, called Duel with a Witch Doctor. Bagdasarian created the tune with the help of a $200 tape recorder, which was a large amount of money at that time. He recorded his voice at different speeds in order to create the high-pitched voice for the witch doctor to create the illusion of singing a duet with someone else. This was the same technique he would ultimately use to create songs for Alvin and The Chipmunks. The method was also imitated by other artists, such as Sheb Wooley, who created "The Purple People Eater."

Related: 1966 Ballad, Which Was Originally a Famous Italian Song, Became a No. 1 Hit 60 Years Ago

Liberty Records released “Witch Doctor” in 1958, back when the company was struggling. They were close to bankruptcy when Bagdasarian released this surprise hit, which Billboard ranked as the No. 4 song for all of 1958.

As Black Gold Brooklyn reported, “With Liberty hinging on bankruptcy, [Bagdasarian] had successfully convinced the execs to allocate the remaining vinyl pucks and labels in the warehouse to pressing his new record ‘Witch Doctor.’ The song was an enormous number one hit and rescued the company.”

Since its release, the song has appeared in many different films and television shows, including The Rugrats Movie and The Muppet Show. However, it gained the most popularity when covers were released from Alvin and the Chipmunks.

Bagdasarian created many more songs throughout the course of his career. Another huge hit, "The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don't Be Late),” was released in November 1958 and topped the Billboard charts by New Year's Day. It also won three Grammy awards at the very first Grammy ceremony.

Bagdasarian died of a heart attack in his California home in January 1972 at the age of 52.

Parenting teenagers comes with a well-known set of challenges. Getting them to hold still long enough for a hug is near the top of the list. Nicole Kidman has a solution, and she is not above enforcing it.

Speaking at HISTORYTalks in Philadelphia on April 18, the Oscar-winning actress sat down with Hoda Kotb for a wide-ranging conversation about motherhood, legacy, and life after loss. At one point, Kidman revealed the one daily non-negotiable she has with her daughters Sunday Rose, 17, and Faith Margaret, 15, both of whom she shares with ex-husband Keith Urban. 'Both my daughters will kill me for saying this,' she told Kotb, 'but I'm like, 'You need to hug [me] for two minutes a day.''

Kidman pointed to the body's response to sustained physical contact as her justification. 'It releases certain chemicals in the body,' she said, 'and everyone needs to be hugged for about two minutes a day.' The science broadly supports her instinct. According to the Cleveland Clinic, a meaningful hug triggers a release of oxytocin, sometimes called the bonding hormone, while simultaneously reducing cortisol, the body's primary stress chemical. The net result is a measurable shift in how connected and calm a person feels.

She described finding the teenage years genuinely 'extraordinary' (a word rarely associated with that particular phase) and spoke about the closeness the three of them share. 'We're so close, the three of us, we talk about everything,' she said. The method, she explained, is simple. Showing up when they ask and listening without an agenda. 'I always say, 'Do you want me to give you advice now, or are you just sort of venting?'' she told Kotb. 'Primarily I get told no advice, 90 percent of the time.'

The HISTORYTalks event, held at Philadelphia's Kimmel Center on April 18 to mark America's 250th anniversary, brought together a notable lineup that included every living former U.S. president alongside athletes, entertainers, and public figures. Kidman's conversation with Kotb ranged from her mother's death at the Venice Film Festival in 2024 to her work as a producer advocating for female directors. The two-minute hug rule was offered almost as an aside.

It is the kind of parenting instinct that is easier to understand once the teenage years have arrived and closeness begins to fade. Kidman, 58, appears to have made her peace with asking for that closeness directly.

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We spend so much time looking for that "perfect" travel hybrid—something that offers the ease of a cruise with the deep-dive expertise of a guided tour. Trafalgar, a brand that has basically written the book on land travel for seven decades, is finally bridging that gap. This April, they officially launched their river cruise division with two gorgeous new 128-guest ships: the Trafalgar Verity on the Rhine and the Trafalgar Reverie on the Danube.

“Introducing river cruising is a dream in the making for Trafalgar,” said Melissa DaSilva, Deputy CEO and Chief Sales Officer, TTC Tour Brands. “We’re bringing our decades of experience crafting guided journeys to Europe’s rivers. This is just the beginning, with future expansion already underway.”

In a nod to its loyal community, Trafalgar selected past guest Cassandra Estrella-Roca as Godmother of the Trafalgar Verity. Her blessing—calling the ship a “home for stories”—perfectly captures the brand’s transition from land to water.

Related: I’m a PBS Travel Host—Here’s the One River Cruise I Keep Recommending

Intimate Ships and Iconic Itineraries

Trafalgar

Both the Verity and Reverie are capped at 128 guests, which means you’re never fighting a crowd at the buffet or waiting in a long line to disembark. That lower guest count also lets these ships slip into smaller moorings that the 190-passenger "longships" simply can’t reach.

• On the Rhine: The Trafalgar Verity is leaning into a chic, Art Deco-inspired design for its 10-day "Best of the Rhine and Amsterdam" itinerary. It sails between Basel and Amsterdam, hitting all the heavy hitters like Strasbourg and Cologne, plus a sunset cruise through the UNESCO-listed Middle Rhine Gorge.
• On the Danube: The Trafalgar Reverie tackles the cultural heart of Central Europe on the 8-day "Best of the Danube" itinerary. You’ll sail from Passau to Budapest, with deep dives into Vienna and Bratislava along the way.

This launch is more than just a new boat in the water; it’s a "dream in the making" for the team at Trafalgar. As Melissa DaSilva, deputy CEO of TTC Tour Brands, puts it, the goal is to bring their decades of experience in "meaningful, locally driven" travel to the river cruise sector. For the traveler, that means the same signature touring style you’d expect on land—just with a much better view from your balcony.

A New Era for a Legacy Brand

The Rhine and Danube are just the first stops. By 2027, the fleet grows with the Trafalgar Harmonie, which is set to bring this same guided-tour-meets-boutique-cruise style to the Seine. It’s part of a bigger push through 2030 to give travelers more ways to see Europe without the usual big-ship crowds.

With Rhine rates starting at $2,849 and the Danube at $3,699, it’s a serious new alternative for anyone who wants a high-end cruise that actually prioritizes expert-led exploration on the ground. It’s essentially the "insider" upgrade the river market has been missing.

Related: I Got an Early Look Inside Celebrity's Sold-Out River Cruise—Here's Why It's Already the Most Anticipated Launch of 2027

John Miller, former FBI assistant director, is raising doubts about some of the notes connected to the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie. Speaking on a recent episode of The Fairfax Files, Miller questioned the credibility of messages sent to TMZ claiming to have information about Guthrie’s location. Miller suggested the individuals behind those communications were unlikely to have any real knowledge of the case, noting that some demanded payment—reportedly one Bitcoin—in exchange for information but provided no proof to support their claims.

"I think that this is a kidnapping gone wrong,” Miller told podcast host Michael Hershman. He pointed to early ransom communications, saying, “You have a ransom demand that is crystal clear and says, ‘Just pay the money, you’ll never hear from us again.’ And then you have a second note that we know a little bit about, but not all of the details, that basically ends the negotiations."

Miller added that while some early communications are believed to be authentic, later messages sent to TMZ claiming to disclose Guthrie’s location appear far less credible. “You have opportunists who came behind that, who couldn’t prove anything, about having any particular knowledge that gave them credibility,” he said. “These were people just saying, ‘Send me money, and I’ll tell you who did it or where she is.’ Those are almost 100% frauds."

One of the notes, sent on April 6, read, "It’s unbelievable that millions have been wasted and yet here I am willing to deliver them on a silver platter since the 11th of February for a bitcoin but I am disregarded as a scam … they are free and the case is frozen but the ego’s (sic) remain hot when it comes to me. Arrogance at it’s finest," according to TMZ.

Whomever sent the notes requested 1/2 a Bitcoin to be paid up front and the other half to be paid after the information checks out. As far as the public is aware, authorities did not send the indvidual any money.

Investigators believe that Guthrie, 84, was abducted from her Arizona home in the middle of the night on Sunday, Feb. 1. The Pima County Sheriff's Department has been working in tandem with the FBI in hopes of solving the case. Anyone with information is asked to call the FBI (1-800-CALL-FBI).

READ NEXT: Ed Smart Urges Caution as Rumors Involving Annie Guthrie and Tommaso Cioni Persist

Shake Shack's Smoky BBQ menu is making a big comeback and this year, the seasonal offer is coming with a few new, even more comforting, soon-to-be favorites.

The cult-favorite burger joint isn't reinventing the wheel this summer, but it is giving classic, cookout-style meals and summery sweets the Shake Shack treatment—one of which marks the first-of-its-kind-menu item for the chain (and heightens the ever-intensifying competition).

Shake Shack announced on Tuesday that it's bringing back its Smoky BBQ menu with its first-ever BBQ Boneless Baby Back Rib Sandwich—made with real baby back pork ribs that the company said it deboned by hand, slow-cooked for nine hours, and marinated in a proprietary BBQ spice blend with apple cider vinegar to deliver "flavor in every bite" (and probably make fans say, "McRib, who?").

The announcement also revealed it has plans to shake up more than its entrées, introducing a new side, dessert-inspired shakes and global beverages to its U.S. menus this season.

Shake Shack's Smoky BBQ Menu Returns With 2 New Comfort Food Items

Returning for the third year in a row as part of the summer-exclusive menu are Shake Shack's Smoky Classic BBQ Burger and BBQ Chicken Sandwich, as well as its Spicy Fries (which can be ordered with or without cheese).

Related: The Clever Shake Shack Ordering Hack We Wish We'd Known About Sooner

• Smoky Classic BBQ Burger ($10.49): 100% Angus beef topped with American cheese, applewood-smoked bacon, pickles, crispy onions, and our classic smoky BBQ sauce on a toasted potato bun.
• Smoky Classic BBQ Chicken Sandwich ($10.49): Crispy white-meat chicken topped with American cheese, applewood-smoked bacon, pickles, crispy onions, and our classic smoky BBQ sauce on a toasted potato bun.
• Spicy Fries with Ranch ($5.49): Crispy crinkle cut fries spiced with our own hot pepper blend of cayenne, garlic, and paprika served with a side of our Shack Ranch.
• Spicy Cheese Fries with Ranch ($5.99): Crispy crinkle cut fries topped with our cheese sauce and spiced with our own hot pepper blend of cayenne, garlic, and paprika served with a side of our Shack Ranch.

Shake Shack's Smoky BBQ Burger (L) and new BBQ Boneless Baby Back Rib Sandwich (R).

Shake Shack will also offer Mac & Cheese as a side as well as the new BBQ Boneless Baby Back Rib Sandwich.

• NEW! Mac & Cheese ($5.99): Cavatappi pasta mixed with a creamy cheddar and American cheese sauce, topped with toasted breadcrumbs.
• NEW!BBQ Boneless Baby Back Rib Sandwich ($12.99): Boneless 100% baby back pork ribs topped with our classic BBQ sauce, fresh coleslaw and pickles on a toasted potato bun.

Shake Shack's new Mac & Cheese.

Shake Shack

Sweet Sips—Including 3 Milkshakes and Flavored Lemonades—Will Also Launch for a Limited Time

And because no meal is complete without an ice-cold beverage (or something sweet to sip on after), Shake Shack is expanding the list of seasonal drinks with flavors of key lime, s'mores and basil.

Some of the drinks may sound familiar and that's because they were previously made available at interantional Shake Shack locations, but they're completely new to the U.S. (aside from the Strawberry Lemonade—which has come and gone from menus before).

• Strawberry Lemonade ($4.49): Strawberry puree mixed with our Shack-made lemonade.
• Tropical Mango Lemonade ($4.49): Tropical mango puree mixed with our Shack-made lemonade.
• Sparkling Cucumber Basil ($4.49): A refreshing blend of cucumber and basil puree topped with our Sparkling Shack2O water.

Shake Shack's Strawberry Lemonade (L), Sparkling Cucumber Basil (C), and Tropical Mango Lemonade (R).

Shake Shack

• Key Lime Pie Shake ($6.99): Vanilla frozen custard hand-spun with key lime pie curd and graham cracker crunch, topped with whipped cream and graham cracker crunch. New to the U.S., it was previously available at Mexico shacks.
• Chocolate Toasted Marshmallow S’mores Shake ($6.99): Vanilla frozen custard hand-spun with toasted marshmallow dark chocolate ganache, topped with whipped cream and s'mores graham cracker crunch. It's not the same as the prior s'mores-inspired treats (Campfire S'mores and S'mores), as the brand says it offers a slightly different taste profile.
• Tropical Mango Shake with Passionfruit Popping Boba ($7.99): Vanilla frozen custard hand-spun with tropical mango puree, mini passionfruit popping boba, topped with whipped cream and tropical mango puree drizzle. It was previously offered at Shake Shack locations in Hong Kong.

Shake Shack's new Chocolate Toasted Marshmallow S'mores Shake (L), Tropical Mango Shake With Passionfruit Popping Boba (C), and Key Lime Pie Shake (R).

Shake Shack

When Will Shake Shack's Limited-Edition Summer Items Be Available?

Shake Shack's limited-time summer offers—including its Smoky BBQ menu and related drinks—will be available beginning today (Tuesday, April 28) at particitpating locations nationwide, according to the press release.

What are you grabbing first? Let us know in the comments!

Next: Wendy’s Just Brought Back a Fan-Favorite Sauce—but Not for Long

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When you're packing for a trip, shoes are usually the first thing on the chopping block. They’re bulky, they take up space, and suddenly you’re debating whether you really need that second (or third) pair. But not all sandals are created equal — some may look cute in photos, but leave your feet aching after walking just a few blocks. And the last thing you want on vacation is to slow down because your shoes can’t keep up.

That’s why finding a pair you can actually rely on makes all the difference. Right now, the Skechers Summits Fantasy Walk Sandals are as low as $30 on Amazon, marked down 45% from their original $55 price. Lightweight, supportive, and easy to wear, they’re destined to live on your feet, not in your suitcase, whether you’re sightseeing, heading to the beach, or exploring a new city on foot.

Skechers Summits Fantasy Walk Sandals, From $30 (was $55) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

This sandal blends a sporty, comfort-first silhouette with a slightly more elevated, lifestyle-ready feel. The textured criss-cross knit straps create dimension while staying breathable and flexible, wrapping the foot in a way that feels secure without being restrictive. A big toe loop adds a flip-flop-inspired touch while enhancing stability, and the softly contoured yoga foam footbed delivers plush cushioning with every step — ideal for long days on your feet. 

Set on a lightweight outsole with a slight 1.25-inch platform and ridged traction, it provides reliable grip on a multitude of terrains, from grass and gravel to cobblestones and concrete. They’re comfortable enough for travel days, errands, and sightseeing, but polished enough to pair with casual outfits like lounge sets, denim, or breezy dresses. 

Care is just as easy as styling, thanks to a machine-washable design that makes it simple to rinse away dust, dirt, and scuffs. Made from 100% vegan materials, they’re also a sustainability-conscious choice. 

These sandals come in four versatile colors. Discounts vary by hue and size, but many options are between 25% and 45% off right now. Available in whole and half sizes 5 through 12 in a regular and wide widths.

Related: Walmart's Memory Foam Sandals Are ‘Comfortable,' 'Cute,' and on Sale for Just $14

Shoppers raved that these “supportive” and “lightweight” sandals are “great for travel,” running “errands,” and more in the reviews section. One shopper wrote, "The footbed feels soft and supportive, like you're walking on a yoga mat, and the straps are stretchy without being flimsy.”

That same shopper shared that they’re "versatile" enough to be “worn with casual outfits, summer dresses, and even straight to and from yoga class.”

Travel-ready and easy on the wallet, the Skechers Summits Fantasy Walk Sandals are made for all your warm-weather plans. Don’t wait — snag a pair for as low as $30 at Amazon today!

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When it comes to personal finance, Barbara Corcoran is a household name. That's because the real estate guru turned Shark Tank host is known for being a money-savvy millionaire. However, her recent confession about spending will likely have some folks wondering how she managed to amass her fortune in the first place.

That's because she says she doesn't actually believe in saving money, which raises questions about how she managed to save so much. Curious how she can claim not to save while also sitting on a massive pile of cash? Keep reading to learn more.

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View this post on Instagram Barbara Corcoran Says She's Never Saved a Dime

Corcoran opened up to CNBC about her unusual take on savings, saying, "I'm just not a believer in saving money. I've never saved a dime my whole life." According to Corcoran, she learned this philosophy from her mother, who raised "10 kids on a shoestring budget."

This apparently really stuck with the real estate guru over the years, and she followed in her mother's footsteps, opting to spend her money rather than save it. However, the off-the-cuff remark isn't as simple as it seems. That's because Corcoran says she got rich by choosing what to spend her money on, including many different investments and spending on her nearest and dearest.

"I think the carefree attitude of believing that money makes money, if you're willing to share it and spend it, really works, or at least it has certainly worked for me," she explained. "And I don't believe in hoarding money, saving money, everything like that. Because for me...it would take my spirit away."

Related: Financial Expert Jim Cramer Endorses Controversial Social Security Solution That Will Infuriate the Rich

Corcoran's Money Philosophy is the Opposite of Dave Ramsey's

Fans of Dave Ramsey may remember that he has a "7 Baby Steps" philosophy, which he encourages his followers to follow to gain financial independence and grow their wealth.

According to his website, those steps include:

• Saving at least $1,000 for an emergency fund
• Paying off debts using his snowball method
• Getting three to six months' worth of expenses set aside for a fully funded emergency fund
• Invest 15 percent of your household's income into some sort of retirement account
• Save for college for your children
• Pay off your mortgage
• Build wealth and give it away

Related: Dave Ramsey's 'Sage Advice' Has People Calling Him a Giant Hypocrite

While some of those statements seem in line with what Corcoran does (specifically, building wealth and giving it away), it looks like she opts not to complete a lot of the other steps from Ramsey. And while this has obviously worked for her, one has to wonder whether or not it's too big of a risk for those who are looking to save up for something big, like retirement.

Ramsey seems to offer some easier-to-follow advice that produces a more common outcome, making it easier for people of all walks of life to follow. Corcoran's advice seems better suited to higher earners, who may not need to worry as much about surprise expenses given their existing net worth.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.

Consult the astrological history books, and you won’t find a solar eclipse listed for April 28, 1973. However, on that day, the music world witnessed a rock eclipse of epic proportions: Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon overshadowed all others by going to No. 1, kicking off a record-setting run on the Billboard 200 albums chart that no one has touched since.

First released on March 1, 1973, The Dark Side of the Moon entered the albums chart at No. 95 on the week of March 17. Up to that point, the highest that Pink Floyd ever reached was No. 26 with their previous album, Obscured by Clouds. But this time, something was different. Over the next two months, The Dark Side of the Moon made its way further and further up the chart. Eventually, it dethroned Alice Cooper’s Billion Dollar Babies to take the top spot.

Though The Dark Side of the Moonwould stay at No. 1 for only a week, it would be a near-constant presence on the Billboard 200 for the next fifteen years.

L-R: David Gilmour, Nick Mason, Roger Waters, Rick Wright performing live onstage.

Photo by Mick Gold on Getty Images

The concept album, which is considered “the best rock album of all time,” spent 84 weeks on the chart (March 1973 to October 1974), a very impressive run; Billboard named it the best-selling album of 1973. Dark Side returned to the charts in December 1976, where it would stay for 593 weeks. In October 1988, after accumulating 741 weeks on the chart, Dark Side of the Moon fell off…

…until it popped back on in 2009. According to Billboard, catalog albums were largely disallowed from charting from 1991 to 2009, as the albums chart “included only then-current and recently-released albums.”

With the updated rules, Dark Side has returned to the Billboard 200 chart frequently over the past decades. Since then, it has not only cemented itself as being the longest-charting of all time on the Billboard 200, but in January 2026, The Dark Side of the Moon picked up its 996th nonconsecutive week. With the Artemis II space mission touring the literal dark side of the moon, many expected the album to return to the charts and cross the 1,000-week threshold, but that has yet to happen.

Pink Floyd began working on The Dark Side of the Moon in 1971, according to Ultimate Classic Rock. Roger Waters wrote all the lyrics, exploring the concept of what drives people “mad”—money, greed, mortality—while David Gilmour and Richard Wright concentrated on the music. The album’s singles, “Money” and “Us and Them,” became staples of rock radio. It remains a cherished and celebrated album in history, with pristine copies often selling for thousands of dollars.

Related: 1973 Album That Went to No. 1 53 Years Ago Sold For a Shocking Amount

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A good couch should be comfortable, durable, and spacious enough to stretch out on while lounging. If you've been searching for a reliable option that won't break your budget, Walmart's new flash deal could end your search. The Muumblus 80-Inch Corduroy Loveseat Sofa is currently on sale for over 40% off, and it comes in six gorgeous colors. 

Right now, the cozy cloud couch is on sale for just $296, down from $499,  in the black, white, gray, and pink colors. You can also shop it in lovely green and orange shades at $329. All six styles are versatile enough to complement various types of decor, ranging from modern to farmhouse to minimalist. 

Muumblus 80-Inch Corduroy Loveseat Sofa, From $296 (was $499) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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At 80.5 inches long, 31.8 inches wide, and 35 inches high, the stylish two-seater offers ample room to relax and unwind. It features deep seats that each measure 32.5 inches wide by 22 inches deep, with soft, double-layer cushions filled with high-density foam and padded cotton. The pillow top armrests not only add an elegant touch, but also provide ergonomic support so that guests can rest their heads comfortably while napping, reading, or watching a movie. 

Featuring a skin-friendly corduroy fabric that's breathable, waterproof, and stain-resistant, the sofa is designed to stand up to long-term use. It can support up to 600 pounds in weight, and each cushion has a removable, machine-washable cover for easy care. It also comes with two matching throw pillows, which adds the perfect finishing touch while enhancing comfort. 

Related: Walmart's Bestselling Hammock Chair Is Now Just $20, and It's 'Perfect for Relaxing'

Walmart shoppers praised the loveseat for its "super soft" feel and chic design. One reviewer called it "elegant" and noted that it "looks expensive," despite its affordable price point. Another praised the curved back, writing, "It's a total game-changer for my reading marathons. No more waking up with a crick in my neck after falling asleep with my latest thriller."

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With ultra-supportive cushioning and a sleek, luxe look, this highly rated corduroy cloud couch is likely to sell out fast. Make sure to grab yours while it's still on sale for under $300 in most colors at Walmart. 

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If you’ve been scrolling through Pinterest and dreaming of those iconic blue-domed churches and white-washed villages, it’s officially time to stop pinning and start packing. Europe’s very first Royal Beach Club has finally landed in Santorini, and it is every bit the Mediterranean "Blue Zone" reset we’ve been waiting for.

On April 27, the first lucky travelers from Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas stepped onto the volcanic black sands of the Vlychada area, marking the grand opening of a spot that’s all about effortless island vibes. “Santorini is an incredible destination that our guests love to explore, and with this new beach club, we are able to bring the best of what the island has to offer with the signature service Royal Caribbean is known for,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, in a news release.

Related: Why Everyone’s Talking About Royal Caribbean’s New Beach Club

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Rather than just another beach day, the club is the crown jewel of a curated experience called the "Ultimate Santorini Day." The genius of this itinerary is that it actually helps beat the island's legendary crowds by rotating you through the hits. You get an hour and a half to wander the cobblestone streets of Oia (perfect for that caldera selfie), time to shop the galleries in Fira, and a solid three and a half hours to just be at the beach club.

Royal Caribbean

The club itself is a masterclass in "renovation over new construction," upgrading a local favorite into a high-end space that feels authentically Grecian. “We’re thrilled to connect guests with Santorini’s gems—from its iconic villages to the Aegean Sea’s famous beach club culture—creating a balanced, authentic island experience,” adds Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group.

Beyond the beach, the real value of this new club is the way it tackles the logistics that usually make Santorini feel like a puzzle. Instead of white-knuckling it on a local bus or haggling with taxis, the "Ultimate Santorini Day" includes all your round-trip transportation across the island. You’re whisked from the whitewashed paths of Oia—where those blue domes literally spill toward the sea—straight to the buzzing capital of Fira for some quick caldera selfies and gallery hopping, all before the beach club’s private shuttle carries you off to your lounger.

Related: If You’ve Been Waiting to Book a Fall Getaway, Royal Caribbean Just Gave You the Perfect Excuse

Once you’re settled on that volcanic black sand, the "mental load" truly hits zero. Between the live DJ sets and the effortless Wi-Fi (perfect for making everyone back home a little jealous), the day is designed to be a total Aegean immersion. You can wander from the all-you-can-eat Greek buffet for a second round of gyros to the grab-and-go stations for a quick snack, making it the ultimate home base for travelers who want the "Blue Zone" lifestyle without the heavy lifting of a typical DIY port day.

Related: Royal Caribbean Unveils 2027 South Pacific Beach Club Features

In 1976, the members of Led Zeppelin became movie stars with the release of  The Song Remains the Same. Starring Robert Plant, Jimmy  Page, John Paul Jones and John Bonham, the big screen film documented the legendary English rock band’s trio of performances at Madison Square Garden in 1973, and featured the biggest songs from their heyday. Despite very mixed reviews at the time of its release, The Song Remains the Same became a cult classic.

Decades after its release, the film was ranked on Rotten Tomatoes' list of the 67 best concert movies of all time, on a countdown that included everything from The Rolling Stones’ Gimme Shelter to Madonna’sTruth or Dare.

“Filmed in 1973 over the course of a three-night stand at New York City's Madison Square Garden, this concert film shows Led Zeppelin at the apogee of their hard-rocking glory,” the outlet noted. “The live footage is interspersed with elaborate fantasy sequences, backstage shenanigans and a glimpse of what the business side of such a large touring operation entails.”

Not-so-rave reviews

Fifty years ago, The Song Remains the Same premiered at  Cinema I in New York City. The October 20, 1976, premiere was panned by a New York Timesreviewer who admittedly only stayed for the first two-thirds of the screening.

“Putting this British rock group in a movie was intended to be the equivalent not of listening to their records but of attending one of their concerts. This is very hard to do on film: We miss the immediacy, the sense of physical presence and even, to an extent, physical peril,” reviewer Richard Eder wrote in a review titled “Zeppelin’s Rock Pulverizes Eardrums at Cinema I.” He also tore into the accompanying fantasy scenes, which included Plant and  Jones dressed as knights on horseback and the band’s tour managers appearing as gangsters. Plant was also described as looking like “a sheep trying to seduce a telephone pole” onstage.

'The Song Remains the Same' marquee.

Photo by Richard E. Aaron on Getty Images

A later review from Rolling Stone was more positive. “Plant’s cry of ‘Does anybody remember laughter?' during ‘Stairway to Heaven’ is the height of golden-god self-seriousness,” the outlet noted. “But, for better or worse, Song captures Zeppelin at a time when their brute force, young-stud stamina and unchecked excesses were peaking; it’s as exhilarating and exhausting as the decade it came out of.”

Jimmy Page was critical of the film

The Song Remains the Same came about when Led Zeppelin manager Peter Grant struck a deal with filmmaker Joe Massot. While  the film was released a year and a half behind schedule, it went on to become a box office success thanks to fans, per Ultimate Classic Rock

Still, Page was not a fan of the movie. “The Song Remains The Same is not a great film,” the Led Zeppelin guitar legend once told NME, per Far Out magazine. “But there’s no point in making excuses. It’s just a reasonably honest statement of where we were at that particular time. It’s very difficult for me to watch it now, but I’d like to see it in a year’s time just to see how it stands up.”

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Drink your juice, Shelby. 

And here’s some juice for everyone: Sally Field knew her Steel Magnolias co-star Julia Robertswas destined for greatness before the cameras even started rolling. 

In this week’s exclusive cover story (coming tomorrow, April 29), Field tells Parade that she first clocked Roberts’ immense talent when the producers were casting the role of Shelby—the bright-eyed (and totally doomed) bride and mom who suffers from severe Type 1 diabetes. 

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It was May of 1988 and Field was already locked in to play Shelby’s concerned mom, M’Lynn, and was performing alongside several potential Shelbys during the audition process. "I read with a lot of established actors for that role," she says. 

And then Roberts walked into the room. A Georgia native with a wide smile, she had appeared in obscure flicks like Firehouse, Baja Oklahoma and Satisfaction; her beloved gem Mystic Pizza had not yet been released. As Field recalls, “After I read with Julia, I said ‘We’re done, we’re done. There she is.’ I knew.” 

Related: Sally Field Reveals the Real Reason ‘Mrs. Doubtfire’ Still Hits So Hard 33 Years Later (Exclusive)

Alas (dusty spoiler alert!), Roberts’ character does not live to see the closing credits: The hit 1989 film about friendship and resilience among six strong-willed Southern women—based on Robert Harling’s 1987 play of the same name—culminates with Shelby’s tragic death following the high-risk birth of her son and a kidney transplant. 

The cast of Steel Magnolias poses for a portrait in 1989.

Photo by Aaron Rapoport on Getty Images

Field—now starring in the heartwarming Netflix movie Remarkably Bright Creatures (out May 8)—adds that filming the tearjerking scene at Shelby’s gravesite was just as poignant for her as it is for the weeping audiences. 

Related: What Dolly Parton Told Julia Roberts on the Set of ‘Steel Magnolias’ Left Her Speechless

“You don’t think of it as ‘Oh, it’s just another day at the office,’” she says. “It takes a great part of your soul. It costs you. It cost every one of us. We get a great deal of return from it because we learn from it. We were certainly bonded in it, holding each other’s hands the whole time. But it’s not just a job.” 

Roberts ended up nabbing a 1989 Best Supporting Actress Oscar nomination for her heartbreaking performance, losing to Brenda Fricker for My Left Foot. By the summer of 1990, she had ascended to the Hollywood A-List by way of her dazzling performance in Pretty Woman.

Still, Steel Magnolias remains a modern-day classic because of its formidable ensemble. Along with Field, the cast featured Dolly Parton (big-hearted hairdresser Truvy); Shirley MacLaine (town grump Ouiser); Olympia Dukakis (well-to-do widow Clairee); and Daryl Hannah (shy apprentice beautician Annelle). Dylan McDermott played Roberts’ husband, while Tom Skerritt played her father. 

Shooting with these fellow legends? Just as amazing as it seems. “It was a great experience,” Field says. “We had a wonderful time together. We adored each other, we fought for each other, we cared for each other, we would get together and play games.” 

She adds, “Those kinds of experiences don’t come around a lot. They’re a once-in-a-lifetime thing, and you know there won’t be another.” 

Related: Up Next:

While the rest of mid-century America was tucked into twin beds and sweating over the suburban dream, Carolyn Jones was busy being the horniest woman on primetime.

April 28 marks what would have been Jones' 96th birthday and the icon is still the unlikely patron saint of the woman who wants it all: the house, the glam, and a husband who can't keep his hands off her. Most stars from that era are footnotes now. Jones is an eternal vibe.

It was 1964. Most TV wives were wearing floral aprons and apologizing for the pot roast. Then there was Jones as Morticia Addams in The Addams Family. She slinked in a dress of black wool and silk that looked like it was sewn onto her skin. The star worked in a dress so tight she had to shuffle like a penguin between takes and was known for standing for hours under hot studio lights, draped in heavy fabrics, never breaking the mask of the Addams matriarch.The way she looked at Gomez wasn't a typical depiction of sitcom love. It was the look of a woman who adored her husband. And she wasn't afraid to let the audience see it.

Every time John Astin started nibbling up her arm because she whispered a bit of French, Astin admitted the "worried" network censors started to sweat through their shirts. At that time in American culture, The Dick Van Dyke Showwas the gold standard: a parallel universe where married people didn’t share a mattress. Yet there was Morticia, lounging in a wicker chair that looked like a throne, inviting a viewers into a lovefest Tuesday night. "I don't know of another [show] where you saw the husband and wife and could imagine a carnal relationship," Astin later said.

Carolyn Jones and John Astin as Morticia and Gomez Addams (Source: Getty)

Photo by ABC Photo Archives on Getty Images

“It's interesting,” Astin later admitted. “Both of us were attracted to one another, but I can tell you, we didn't mess around. It was better because we were always attracted to one another. You know, there was sort of a magnet.”

It was a real-life spark they channeled directly into the characters. They were the first couple in TV history to have an implied life behind closed doors, a fact Jones played with a heavy-lidded, aristocratic poise.

Born in Amarillo, Texas, Jones survived severe asthma that kept her in bed for years, reading Hollywood magazines and planning a getaway. By the time she landed the black wig, she had an Oscar nod and had gone toe-to-toe with Elvis in King Creole. 

When cancer hit in the '80s, it was aggressive. But Jones didn't go away. She signed onto the soap Capitol and played her scenes from a wheelchair when her legs gave out.

We’re still obsessed with her because she didn't play a character. She played an icon that hasn't aged a day. Happy birthday to the woman who invented a blueprint for every girl who ever felt like they didn't belong behind a picket fence.

You've probably had a Dr Pepper at some point. Maybe grabbing one from the fridge, ordering it at a restaurant, or reaching for it when you wanted something different from Coke or Pepsi.

But once you look at the full timeline behind the drink, it's a lot more unusual than you'd expect. What started in a small Texas drugstore didn't follow the typical soda path, and the deeper you get into the story, the more unexpected details emerge.

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It's not just about where it was created, either. There are open questions around how it got its name, what exactly goes into it, and why it tastes so different from every other soda on the shelf.

Dr Pepper has been around for well over a century, but its story still doesn't feel fully settled—and that's part of what makes it so interesting.

What Is the History of Dr Pepper?

George W. Bailey / Shutterstock.com

Dr Pepper's story goes all the way back to 1885 in Waco, Texas, where it was first served at Morrison's Old Corner Drug Store. That detail alone sets it apart. It's widely considered the oldest major soft drink in the United States, even older than Coca-Cola.

In the beginning, it wasn't something you grabbed off a shelf. It was mixed fresh at the soda fountain, one drink at a time. But it didn't stay local for long. As more people started asking for it, demand quickly outpaced what the small shop could handle.

By 1891, a bottling operation was up and running to keep up with orders, turning it from a local favorite into something that could reach a much wider audience.

Then came a major moment in 1904, when Dr Pepper was introduced to millions of people at the St. Louis World's Fair. That kind of exposure helped push it beyond Texas and into the national spotlight.

From there, the brand continued to grow, eventually expanding operations and distribution nationwide. What started as a small soda fountain drink turned into something much bigger—and it's been a staple ever since.

Related: The Most Bizarre Fast-Food Items Ever Released (and Why They Failed)

How Was Dr Pepper Invented?

Teresa Otto / Shutterstock.com

Dr Pepper didn't start with a big launch plan—it started with a pharmacist experimenting behind the counter.

Charles Alderton spent part of his day mixing drinks at a soda fountain, working with different flavored syrups and testing combinations. Instead of trying to recreate something that had been done before, he had a different idea in mind. He wanted to capture the way the shop smelled, where fruit syrups blended in the air.

After plenty of trial and error, he landed on a mix that stood out. When he began serving it, customers immediately took to it and started asking for it by name, originally calling it a "Waco."

From there, the drink took on a new identity. Store owner Wade Morrison helped bring it beyond the soda fountain and gave it the name "Dr Pepper." The exact reason behind the name isn't fully confirmed, but it's often linked to a real doctor Morrison knew or admired.

So while the drink itself came from Alderton's experiments, turning it into "Dr Pepper" was more of a collaborative step—one that helped define the brand from the very beginning.

What Does Dr Pepper Actually Taste Like?

Constantin Iosif / Shutterstock.com

Trying to describe Dr Pepper's flavor isn't exactly easy—and that's kind of the point.

It starts sweet, with noticeable notes of cherry, caramel and vanilla. But as you keep sipping, you might pick up on something a little deeper, like a mild spice or a slightly herbal flavor. Some people notice hints of licorice or clove, while others just know it tastes different from anything else.

That's because it doesn't really fit into one category. It's not quite a cola, not quite a root beer, and not as simple as a fruit soda. It sits somewhere in between, which is why it can be hard to describe without just saying it tastes like Dr Pepper.

The closest comparison is usually a spiced cherry soda, but even that doesn't fully cover it. There's a slightly creamy finish and a subtle bite at the end that keeps it from feeling overly sweet.

Related: The Truth Behind the Little Debbie Logo

How Has the Dr Pepper Logo Changed Over Time?

Oleksandr Blishch / Shutterstock.com

Dr Pepper's logo looks pretty different today than it did when the brand first started, but a few core elements have stuck around.

In the early days, the design was much more decorative, with script-style lettering that matched the look of late 1800s branding. As the brand grew, the logo gradually became simpler and easier to read.

One of the biggest changes came in the early 20th century, when red became the dominant color—a choice that's stuck ever since and is still closely tied to the brand today.

By the 1950s, the logo took on a cleaner, more modern look. The font became bolder, and the period after "Dr" was dropped, partly to avoid giving the impression that the drink had any kind of medical benefit.

From there, updates were more about refining the look than reinventing it. The logo started to take on a rounded, bubble-like shape, with deeper red tones and brighter lettering designed to stand out on shelves.

Today's version is more streamlined than ever, but it still keeps the core elements intact—bold lettering, a rich red color and an instantly recognizable look.

What Are the 23 Flavors in Dr Pepper?

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The short answer: no one outside the company knows for sure.

Dr Pepper is famously made with a blend of 23 flavors, but the exact formula has never been publicly confirmed. That hasn't stopped people from trying to figure it out, though.

Over the years, fans and food writers have pointed to a mix of fruity, sweet, and spiced notes—things like cherry, vanilla, caramel and citrus, along with deeper flavors like licorice, ginger or nutmeg.

But none of those lists are official. Even widely shared versions tend to vary, and some include ingredients the company has outright denied, like prunes.

What is clear is that the flavor doesn't come down to just one dominant note. It's the combination that matters, which is why it's so hard to pin down and why it doesn't taste quite like anything else.

So while the idea of "23 flavors" is real, the exact breakdown is still under wraps—and that mystery is part of what keeps people talking about it.

Related: This Limited-Time Trader Joe's Tart Feels Like Something You'd Order at Brunch

This No. 1 yacht rock hit paired a breezy melody with an unforgettable chorus, defined an era, won an Oscar, and still sticks in your head today, 45 years after its release.

Released in 1981, “Arthur’s Theme (Best That You Can Do)” by Christopher Cross became an instant classic, topping the charts and capturing the era’s signature sound. Written for the hit film Arthur, the song blended cinematic charm with effortless pop appeal, helping cement its place as a defining yacht rock anthem.

The song was crafted by Cross and a legendary lineup of songwriters including Burt Bacharach, Carole Bayer Sager, and Peter Allen. The result was a rare pop moment where top-tier songwriting talent aligned perfectly with a major motion picture.

According to Rhino Records, Cross was asked to score the 1981 comedy classic Arthur, starring Dudley Moore and Liza Minelli. The singer/songwriter was riding high on the success of his 1980 hit "Sailing" when the film's director Steve Gordon tasked him with the role.

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However, Gordon reportedly changed his mind, and handed the job to Bacharach and Sager. The famed songwriting duo kept Cross on as a songwriter, added Allen to the mix, and together, they created an unforgettable collaboration, “Arthur’s Theme (Best That You Can Do).”

“I went up to Burt and Carol’s and, you know, it was pretty intimidating,” Cross told Popdose in 2011, as reported by Rhino. “I mean, certainly Carol I have tremendous regard for, but in the case of Burt, it was very intimidating."

RELATED: 1977 Massive Yacht Rock Hit Just Missed the Top 10—But Became a Classic Anyway

Cross continued, "He was a huge influence on me and my craft throughout, as I think he is on just about all songwriters, and, fortunately, he’s intimidating because of the immense talent he has, but he’s not personally. He’s very warm, and he made me feel about as comfortable as I could…considering I was sitting with Burt Bacharach!"

"But it was very wonderful. I got there about midnight, and it was about five in the morning when we finished the song. We ended up collaborating with Peter (Allen) over the phone, in Australia. So it was a wonderful opportunity for me. It’s a moment I’ll always remember.”

“Arthur’s Theme (Best That You Can Do)” would become a huge hit for Cross and his fellow songwriters. It landed at the top of Billboard's Hot 100 for three weeks in October 1981 and remained a chart mainstay for 24 weeks.

RELATED: 1982 Unforgettable Wedding Classic Named One of the Top Country Love Songs of All Time

The song would go on to win an Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1982. Their award was presented by Bette Midler.

The film the song soundtracked told the story of Arthur Bach, played by Moore, a carefree yet deeply dependent New York millionaire whose lavish lifestyle is funded by a vast family fortune. When his relatives pressure him to secure his inheritance through a strategic marriage to a wealthy socialite, he finds himself torn between duty and love after meeting Linda Marolla, (Minnelli), a down-to-earth woman from Queens who offers him a very different kind of life.

Guiding and constantly challenging Arthur is his sharp-tongued but loyal butler Hobson, played by Sir John Gielgud. He serves as both caretaker and reluctant moral compass throughout Arthur’s increasingly complicated choices.

The 1982 Oscar ceremony proved to be a major night for the film, with Gielgud earning a Best Supporting Actor alongside the theme song's win. The movie itself picked up two additional nominations, including Best Actor for Dudley Moore and Best Original Screenplay for Steve Gordon.

Christopher Cross is actively touring throughout 2026. He is embarking on a major North American summer tour with Toto and The Romantics.

MORE: 1980 Soft Rock Smash Became a Chart-Topping Phenomenon

I’m a child psychologist specializing in cycle-breaking, and here’s the one way I can tell the difference between parents who are actively breaking toxic family cycles and those who aren’t. It’s whether you have a “to-do” list in your parenting, or a “to-don’t” list. 

All parents have a huge “to-do” list. Make the dentist appointment. Wash the gym uniform. Homework. Bath time. Bedtime. That’s part of the normal stresses of being a parent. If you grew up in a toxic family dynamic, you might also have a huge “to-don’t” list already as well. Don’t yell. Don’t criticize. Don’t stonewall. Don’t make kids feel responsible for my emotions. Don’t dissociate. The “to-don’t” list can go on and on. 

If you have a “to-don’t” list, you’re likely someone who is trying to do the heroic work of cycle-breaking. The problem is, our brains were never meant to use a “to-don’t” system. Our brains really like to "copy/paste" when it comes to our parenting. Just do what Mom did! When you’re trying to actively not do what Mom did, that’s a lot harder. It consumes more mental resources, and it doesn’t give us a plan for what to actually do.

More parents are trying to break cycles, not just raise kids. About 37% now identify as “cycle-breaking” parents, focused on doing things differently than how they were raised.

If you're a cycle-breaking parent, there are seven traits you’ve probably already started to develop. I explain those below as well.

Related: Psychologists Reveal: You’ve ‘Succeeded’ as a Parent if Your Adult Child Has These 11 Subtle Habits

What Does It Mean To Be a Parent Who Is a Generational Cycle-Breaker?

Paperkites/Getty Images

You’re parenting without a roadmap. You’re trying to provide secure attachment, despite never having experienced it yourself. You likely know what emotions you don’t want your children to experience: the sense of loneliness and isolation you grew up with, the need to constantly scan the environment for danger and manage threats, or the sense of having to constantly repress your emotions, before they become too big and trigger an explosion in the adults around you. 

Many cycle-breaking parents don’t fully realize how unhealthy their own childhood was until they become parents themselves. On a recent episode of my Post-Traumatic Parenting podcast, I interviewed Eamon Dolan, bestselling author of The Power of Parting, who described growing up being hit and told he’d "understand one day."

When he became a parent, he realized something else entirely: he never even had the urge to do that to his own child.

This type of realization can be jarring. It’s also where cycle-breaking begins. 

If you’ve had a moment like that, you’re likely already breaking toxic family cycles—and the traits below will feel very familiar.

Related: 8 Manipulative Parenting Habits That Still Affect You as an Adult, According to Psychologists

What Does 'Breaking Family Cycles' Mean, Anyway?

When you’re balancing a to-do list and a to-don’t list in your parenting, you’re making a very intentional choice. You’re choosing to change patterns you inherited instead of repeating them automatically.

That might look like this: instead of shutting down when you’re angry and giving the silent treatment for days, you set a boundary or have a small, productive conflict. Instead of constantly placating the loudest voice in the room, you allow big emotions to exist without rushing to fix them. Instead of yelling when you feel overwhelmed, you pause and try to regulate yourself first.

Trauma makes this harder than it sounds. Early experiences can wire the brain to react quickly under stress. I call this the “trauma app”—an automatic response that activates in intense moments.

When you feel the urge to yell, snap, shut down or criticize, that’s not a character flaw. It’s your trauma app running an old program that once helped you cope, but doesn’t match the kind of parent you want to be now.

Related: 9 Signs You Grew Up With an ‘Eggshell Parent,’ According to Psychologists

Examples of breaking toxic family cycles

Breaking a cycle doesn’t always look dramatic. Often, it shows up in small moments like these:

• Apologizing to your child after losing your temper.
• Pausing instead of yelling when emotions run high.
• Allowing children to express feelings that weren’t welcome in your own childhood.
• Setting boundaries with extended family members who repeat harmful patterns.
• Choosing connection before punishment during discipline moments.

Each of these actions interrupts an old pattern and replaces it with something healthier.

7 Traits of People Who Break Toxic Family Cycles, According to a Psychologist

In my own clinical practice and parenting classes, I see these patterns over and over. Cycle-breaking parents might feel at a disadvantage, but they actually are developing these extremely positive parenting traits. 

1. They notice when their reactions seem bigger than the situation

One of the earliest signs of a cycle-breaking parent is the ability to recognize when their emotional reaction feels bigger than the moment itself.

In my clinical work, I often see parents realize that their child didn’t actually cause the intensity of the reaction. Instead, the child revealed a trigger that was already there.

We spend a lot of time and money in therapy trying to figure out what our triggers are. Guess what? Parenting can reveal them for free! And when we reveal them, we can start to heal them. If a child is snarky, and you start panicking and feeling the need to yell, noticing that your reaction is bigger than the situation (and not acting on that instinct) can be a powerful first step to healing. 

Related: The #1 Hack To Get Your Child or Grandchild’s Attention Without Yelling

2. They apologize to their kids (without over-explaining)

Many parents I work with grew up in homes where adults rarely admitted mistakes.

Cycle-breaking parents do something very different. When they lose their patience or react in a way they regret, they repair the relationship with their child. And that repair can be super simple: “I shouldn’t have yelled. I’m sorry.”

Those moments teach children something incredibly important. Relationships can survive mistakes and reconnect afterward. It’s OK to own up to our mistakes.

3. They take a crucial moment to pause before repeating their own parents’ script

Many parents tell me that during stressful moments, they suddenly hear the exact words their own parents used: “I’m counting to three,” “I brought you into this world, and I can take you out of it,” or any other harmful phrase that they hated hearing. It’s startling when we hear those phrases come out of our own mouths, especially if those are phrases that you swore you’d never say. 

Breaking a cycle often begins when a parent notices that script and pauses before repeating it, then chooses another response instead.

That small moment of awareness can interrupt a pattern that may have existed in the family for generations. 

4. They can sit with their child’s big emotions

In many toxic family systems, emotions were either explosive or completely shut down.

Parents who break these cycles learn to stay present when their child is angry, frustrated or sad rather than immediately trying to stop the emotion. They forget that emotions are just data. They’re instinctive reactions we have to situations, not problems to solve or stressors to distract ourselves from. Our body reactions to emotions may be uncomfortable, but they’re not dangerous. 

In my parenting classes, I often remind parents that children develop emotional regulation by experiencing emotions with a calm adult nearby. It’s not your job to solve your child’s emotions; it’s your job to set the stage for them to learn how to manage emotions themselves. 

5. They question “the way it’s always been done”

Breaking generational patterns almost always involves questioning family rules that were just accepted without a thought as to why they exist.

Parents in my practice often find themselves asking new questions:

• Is this disciplinary tactic actually helping my child learn?
• Am I reacting from fear or intention?
• Is this the kind of relationship I want to build with my child long term?
• Do I need to prioritize this family-of-origin expectation over what my child needs right now? 

They question parenting practices that don’t align with their values. That doesn’t mean they always reject them. Sometimes they do, other times they modify them, and sometimes they create entirely new parenting practices.  

6. They get curious, not furious

One pattern I often see in parents who are breaking toxic family cycles is a shift in how they respond when a child’s behavior is difficult. Instead of reacting immediately with anger or punishment, they pause and become curious about what might be driving the behavior.

In my parenting classes, I often describe this shift as learning to "get curious instead of furious."

When a child melts down, refuses to cooperate or pushes limits, curiosity invites questions like: What’s going on underneath this behavior? Is my child overwhelmed, tired or feeling powerless?

It’s not that they ignore boundaries or become permissive. It means they respond with understanding first and correction second.

Over time, this approach helps children feel safer bringing their struggles to their parents instead of hiding them.

7. They believe their family story can change

Perhaps the most powerful trait I see in parents who break toxic cycles is hope.

Breaking generational patterns can be exhausting work. Many parents worry that the patterns they grew up with are too deeply ingrained to change.

But the parents who keep going tend to believe something important: their children’s experience of family life can be different from their own.

Over time, those small daily choices create an entirely new emotional blueprint for the next generation.

Related: ‘I’m a Psychologist, and Here Are 7 Signs Your ‘Gentle Parenting’ Is Actually People-Pleasing’

How To Start Breaking Toxic Family Cycles

Breaking generational patterns can feel overwhelming, especially if you didn’t have a model for what healthy parenting looks like. The good news is, it doesn’t require perfection. It starts with small, intentional shifts.

Start by noticing, not fixing

Pay attention to the moments where your reaction feels bigger than the situation. That’s often your first clue that an old pattern is being activated.

Rather than repeating the internal, shaming voice of “I lost it, just like my mom used to. I’m terrible,” treat that moment as data. Get curious with yourself. Why did I lose it? What about the situation was too stressful? 

Pause before you repeat what you learned

You don’t have to have the perfect response. Even a brief pause can interrupt an automatic reaction and create space for a different choice. Use a placeholder for a reaction. Telling a child honestly that you’re trying very hard not to yell at them right now is so much better than snapping. 

Repair when things go wrong

You will lose your patience sometimes. What matters most is what happens next. A simple, sincere apology teaches your child more than getting it right every time.

Focus on what to do, not just what to avoid

A “to-don’t” list can only take you so far. Over time, start building a “to-do” list:

• What does connection, boundaries and emotional safety actually look like in your home?
• What are your parenting values?
• How are you going to intentionally enact them in this family? For example, if my family values are "We talk about our problems, and we communicate with respect," you might set up weekly family meetings to do exactly that. 

Cycle-breaking doesn’t happen in one big moment. It happens in small decisions, made over and over again, that slowly create a different kind of family story. I promise you, as someone who has witnessed hundreds of people break toxic family cycles, one parenting interaction at a time, this can be done.

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Summer and theme parks are synonymous. Kids are gleefully squealing from nearby rides, and families are munching on some of the best theme park snacks around. But if you haven't been to your local theme park or one of the big players like Disneyland or Universal Orlando Resort lately, this summer is a great time to plan a trip. Across the country, theme parks are debuting new attractions and shows to highlight America’s 250th birthday, and even giving guests one last chance to ride iconic attractions before they close to make way for new offerings. 

So if you’re in the thick of planning your family’s summer vacation to a nearby theme park, don’t forget to add these can’t-miss things to your must-do list. Even better (if you have the extra time and money) is to make a summer theme park bucket list to try to hit them all before the kids head back to school in the fall. 

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Hersheypark’s New Water Play Area For Kids Of All Ages The Boardwalk at Hersheypark is included in your park ticket.

Hersheypark

There’s nothing better than going to a water park this summer, but what if the water park were inside a theme park? That’s exactly what it’s like at Hersheypark, where guests walk by roller coasters to get to a beach chair near a wave pool at The Boardwalk water park. New at the water park this year are The Island at Bayside Pier and The Inlet at Bayside Pier. The water play zones have 45 water elements for kids to splash around in, near, and on top of. The Island at Bayside Pier is lined with 10-foot-tall palm trees that are actually dump buckets, while The Inlet at Bayside Pier is fully shaded with plenty of water sprayers and water spouts.

Even better for families, the Boardwalk is included in your admission to Hersheypark. So you can even hit a few roller coasters before or after the water park to get more thrills in during the day. 

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Six Flags Over Texas Will Open A New Record-Breaking Coaster Six Flags Over Texas will open one of the most thrilling rollercoasters in the world this year.

Six Flags Over Texas

Later this year, Six Flags Over Texasis opening its newest, record-breaking roller coaster, Tormenta Rampaging Run. The coaster is set to be the tallest, fastest, longest, and first-ever giga dive coaster in the world. Riders will reach a whopping 309-feet-high overlooking the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Speeds peak at 87 miles per hour. Along with the new coaster, the park will have a new Spanish village-themed area, dubbed Rancho de la Tormenta. Here, guests can eat at the new Covina Abuela restaurant. 

As of writing, an opening date for the new coaster and Spanish-themed area has not been announced. I’m hoping it will be before the end of summer so I can add this to my summer bucket list. 

Related: Six Flags’ New First-of-Its-Kind Coaster Is Already Making History

Two New Experiences Coming To Fan-Favorite Attractions At Disneyland  Beginning May 22, 2026, a new mission, centered around “The Mandalorian and Grogu” is touching down in Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disneyland park.

Disneyland Resort

If your summer plans take you to the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, you’re in luck because two fan-favorite attractions are getting a fun summer upgrade. The first is Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Park. The ride is getting a new story centered around The Mandalorian and his adorable sidekick, Grogu. The new mission kicks off on May 22, the same day as the theatrical release of The Mandalorian and Grogu.

Then, across the Esplanade atDisney California Adventure, Soarin’ will get a patriotic upgrade, highlighting America's natural beauty. The new flight, called Soarin’ Across America, takes off on July 2. 

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Dollywood Is Opening A First-Of-Its Kind Attraction Taking flight: Dollywood’s new $50 million 'NightFlight Expedition' is the park’s largest investment to date, surpassing even the cost of the DreamMore Resort.

Dollywood

Dollywood is set to open its newest attraction, NightFlight Expedition, in 2026. The ride will be located in the park’s Wildwood Grove and is the first of its kind in the world. NightFlight Expedition is an indoor family-hybrid roller coaster and whitewater raft ride. During the five-and-a-half-minute experience, guests will hunt for bioluminescence in the Smoky Mountains. This is one of my most anticipated openings of the year, though an official opening date has not been announced yet. I can’t wait to ride it on my next visit to Dollywood (plus munch on a loaf of the park’s iconiccinnamon bread). 

Related: Dollywood Has Some Big Changes Planned for 2026

Take A Last Ride On A Classic At Silver Dollar City Thunderation will close to make way for something new at Silver Dollar City.

Silver Dollar City

Thunderation is a classic rollercoaster at Silver Dollar City. The high-speed runaway mine train ride reaches speeds of 48 miles per hour over 3,022 feet of track. One of the highlights of the coaster is the 910-degree double helix, which is one of the most thrilling parts of the ride. But at the end of the 2026 season, Thunderation will be closing after over 30 years of whizzing guests through the Ozark Mountains. So this summer will be one of your final chances to get on the wood-steel hybrid coaster before it closes. 

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Bluey and The Muppets Take Over Walt Disney World A vibrant and psychedelic new design will grace the bottom of the guitar outside of Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets.

Disney

Over at Walt Disney World, in Orlando, Florida, there’s a host of new things happening this summer, especially for families with kids. One of the most exciting opportunities is at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, where kids and their parents can take the Wildlife Express train out to Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station. Here, you can meet the lovable dogs from the popular TV show, play games inspired by Bluey, and see some of Australia’s native animals.

For older kids looking for a more thrilling experience, they can hop on the newly refreshed Rock ’n’ Rollercoaster at Disney's Hollywood Studios, which now stars The Muppets. Of course, as with anything involving The Muppets, plans can and do go a little crazy, so be sure to hang on as your L.I.M.O. (Lengthy Immediate Motion Object) takes you from zero to 60 miles per hour zooming across town. 

Both of these experiences officially open on May 26, 2026.

Related: 8 Park-Day Must-Haves From a Certified Disney Adult

Universal Hollywood’s Fast & Furious Roller Coaster Universal Studios Hollywood is gearing up for the Summer 2026 debut of Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift.

Rich Polk / Stringer

Later this summer, Universal Studios Hollywood will debut its newest rollercoaster, Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift. The new ride will be the first-ever high-speed outdoor rollercoaster at the park. Each ride vehicle can move and spin 360 degrees independently. As you’re spinning, you’ll also reach speeds up to 72 miles per hour. Even cooler is that each ride car is themed after real vehicles, including the Mazda RX-7, Nissan Skyline GT-R, Toyota Supra, and Dodge Charger. An official opening date has not been given past summer 2026, but this is one ride that’s going to be worth the wait. 

Related: Universal Orlando Just Dropped a Deal That Makes a Weeklong Summer Vacation Actually Affordable

End Summer With Haunts At Universal Orlando Resort Dr. Oddfellow will take over Universal Orlando Resort's Halloween Horror Nights in 2026.

Universal Orlando Resort

Halloween seems to get earlier and earlier every year, and now it’s creeping into the end of summer, especially at Universal Orlando Resort, where Halloween Horror Nights kicks off on August 28, 2026. This year, the fan-favorite event is celebrating its 35th anniversary with the theme, "Infernal Carnival of Nightmares," where the official ringmasters will be Jack the Clown and Dr. Oddfellow. While the full lineup of events hasn’t been revealed yet, Universal has announced its first house, Jack & Oddfellow, Chaos & Control, which will take guests into the origins of the characters’ rivalry and eventual team-up for a truly fearsome event. 

Related: Top 5 'Fancy' Disney Spots That Will Make You Forget You're at a Theme Park