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Olivia Colman is turning heads after ditching her signature pixie cut.

The 52-year-old actress showed off long, gray curls on the Wicker green carpet during the 22nd Zurich Film Festival on September 28, 2026, alongside her co-star Alexander Skarsgård.

While the hair is most likely a wig or hair extensions, as she was spotted just a few months ago with short hair, fans were loving her transformation.

“Oscar winner Olivia Colman has just won the milfest milf that ever milfed award,” one person tweeted before another added, “People discovering that Olivia Colman is actually so hot with her natural curls.”

A third chimed in, “Personally, I think this is the best #OliviaColman’s ever looked.”

OLIVIA AND HER GORGEOUS HAIR pic.twitter.com/PBtjXkavBi

— justine (@milfsandraoh) September 29, 2026

While Colman is seemingly embracing her silver mane like her fellow actresses Andie MacDowell and Jane Fonda, she has always been honest about her beauty treatments and has admitted to using Botox in the past.

“Oh, I’ve had loads,” she told BBC Radio 2 host Vernon Kay of her Botox routine before confirming that it does hurt, adding, “Yeah, it’s needles in your face.”

Previously, the mother of three also revealed she had to contact Wikipedia directly after she discovered her birthday was wrong and that it had aged her by eight years.

“I emailed them, pretending it wasn’t me. [I wrote] ‘I was at school with her and that’s not her birthday’. I didn’t want them to think I was being so vain,” she said in 2019. “They said, ‘We’d have to see a birth certificate to prove it,’ and I went, ‘Whose f—ing birth certificate have you looked at in the first place to make me eight years older?'”

The site ultimately updated her birthday to the correct date, January 30, 1974. However, Colman’s latest red carpet appearance proves that she is ageless.

Actress Linda Purl recently revealed that she was surprised by her late Matlock castmate Andy Griffith.

During an appearance on a September 2026 episode of the Still Here Hollywood podcast, Purl discussed playing the daughter of Ben Matlock (Griffith), Charlene Matlock, during the show’s first season, which premiered in 1986. The actress said the opportunity to appear on the legal drama, which had a nine-season run, “was thrilling.”

Purl also shared that she didn’t expect Griffith, who died in 2012 at the age of 86, to be so witty and intelligent, given that his best-known character was Andy Taylor on the ’60s sitcom, The Andy Griffith Show.

“He was an intellectual. I didn’t expect that. Something other, kind of a gee-shucks guy. Not at all. Whipsmart. Whipsmart,” said Purl.

The actress then shared her belief that Griffith “was a shapeshifter,” as he had the ability to turn into exactly what audiences wanted at a given time.

“I think he was a shapeshifter, you know. He had a finger on the pulse of humanity at a profound level,” said Purl, now 71, during the podcast interview.

She went on to say that she wished Griffith could have shown off his dramatic acting abilities in weightier roles during his career.

“My sadness with Andy is I wish we had seen his Willy Loman, his King Lear because he had all of those inside of him. I think we saw a fraction of what he was capable of doing as an actor,” said Purl.

Linda Purl Shared Why She Exited ‘Matlock’ Following Season 1

MeTV.com reported that Purl shared why she exited Matlock following season 1 while speaking to Gannett News Service. She explained she felt the show’s writers neglected to make Charlene a fully realized character.

“The writers were just not able to write the character very fully. Any show begins to take on its own format, and Matlock took on its own,” said Purl, per MeTV.com.

She also said that she did weigh the benefits and costs of leaving Matlock before her departure.

“Do I stay on and enjoy my nice, comfortable job, or do I quit and look for something more challenging?” said Purl.

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One of the easiest ways to give your fall wardrobe a boost without making a huge investment is to shop for a matching set at Amazon. The retailer carries a wide selection of styles that range from lounge-worthy to office-appropriate, and many that check multiple boxes. Ahead of Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days event, prices are dropping rapidly on fan-favorite attire that can be put into heavy rotation through springtime but won’t overextend your budget leading up to the holidays. Case in point: We found a stylish matching set that over 200 shoppers have purchased in the past month alone, marked down to just $25. 

Normally $46, the Trendy Queen Matching Lounge Set is currently discounted by up to 46%. The set includes a pair of flowy pants and a fitted long-sleeve top, giving you two stylish pieces for less than you’d usually pay for one. The best deal is on the oatmeal gray color, but the most you’ll pay for any of the seven colors right now is $32. Also available in black, navy, wine red, taupe, coffee, and mocha, there’s an array of options to help bolster your closet with staple pieces ahead of the busy fall and winter seasons.

Trendy Queen Matching Lounge Set, From $25 (was $46) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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This luxuriously soft loungewear set pairs a slightly cropped, long-sleeve top with subtle side ruching and a buttoned Henley neckline with matching wide-leg pants. Available in sizes X-small through X-large, the pants feature a drawstring waistband, so you can easily adjust the fit. 

Made from a blend of 92% rayon and 8% spandex, this set has plenty of stretch built right into the fabric. It’s also easy to care for, as both pieces can be machine washed and dried. Shoppers said the pants and top held their shape through multiple washes and the colors didn’t fade. 

Trendy Queen Matching Lounge Set, From $25 (was $46) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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Of note, the pants run long, which can be either a blessing or a curse, depending on your height. Multiple tall customers raved about this detail, while shorter shoppers were more prone to wearing this set as loungewear at home. One reviewer said the set was “very comfortable and actually long enough for my long legs!” 

Shoppers also appreciated the fabric quality, noting that even the lighter colors were “not see-through.” Speaking to the “super soft” set’s versatility, reviewers mentioned wearing this duo as pajamas, on long travel days, while running errands, and when meeting up with friends. One person even said it was great for wearing postpartum. “It makes such a cute outfit,” a customer shared.

Shop More Deals

• Oncharm 2-Piece Lounge Set, From $23 (was $40) at Amazon
• Lomon Wide Leg Pants Matching Lounge Set, $25 (was $30) at Amazon
• Alaroo 2-Piece Lounge Set, $28 (was $50) at Amazon

Related: Sweatpants Season Is Here, and These ‘Super Comfy’ $15 Wide-Leg Fleece Pants Come in 17 Colors

You won’t want to miss the chance to add the Trendy Queen Matching Lounge Set to your closet this fall for just $25. Add it to your Amazon cart today to save 46% while it’s still on sale!

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As former Dancing with the Stars winner Kaitlyn Bristowe watches season 35 unfold, she can easily relate when tensions develop between partners, given her own highs and lows with her season 29 partner, former pro Artem Chigvintsev.

Bristowe weighs in on the current season in the newest episode of Hulu’s Get Real podcast, which drops at 9 p.m. PT on Wednesday, September 30. She not only gives her take on the tensions between recently-eliminated duo Alan Bersten and Giada De Laurentiis, but also drops a bombshell about her own challenges with Chigvintsev.

Hulu’s Get Real Podcast with Kaitlyn Bristowe (1:08)

Her comments came when host Amanda Hirsch brought up seeing “things get heated” between Bersten and De Laurentiis, but recalled far worse behavior in older seasons. Hirsch said, “In the BTS package, they used to show the pro being like, ‘You’re just not good enough!’ Like, crazy.”

“Artem told me that once,” Bristowe said.

Looking shocked, Hirsch asked, “You’re not good enough?” and guest co-host Candiace Dillard Bassett gasped, “What!?”

“He was like, ‘I thought you were a dancer,'” Bristowe recalled, “and then I cried, and he was like, ‘You’re gonna cry? You’re just wasting more time.'”

“But honestly, that’s their style of coaching,” she continued, referring to all of the pros. “That’s how they grew up. That’s how they got to be as good as they are, and they’re fighting for you.”

“Well, Artem’s no longer on the show,” Hirsch quipped. Chigvintsev, who joined DWTS in season 19, didn’t return after season 32 amid a flurry of drama in his personal life, including his ex-wife Nikki Garcia filing for divorce and receiving a temporary domestic violence restraining order (prosecutors later declined to file charges).

This isn’t the first time Bristowe has spoken about Chigvintsev. In 2022, she said on the What Women Binge podcast with Melissa Joan Hart, “Artem was cut-throat, and I didn’t think it was going to be like that. I think he was going through stuff in his own personal life, and I was, like, so giddy to be in there. He was … going through so much on the outside world that he was trying to be there, like, you know, be present during that, but I think he was just … angry a lot.”

Kaitlyn Bristowe’s Take on DWTS Team Aldente Former DWTS winner Kaitlyn Bristowe attends Amazon MGM Studios’ “Verity” New York Premiere at AMC Lincoln Square 13 on September 29, 2026 in New York City.

Photo by Cindy Ord/WireImage

Bristowe also commented on the apparent tension between Bersten and De Laurentiis, who were nicknamed Team Aldente and went home in the second week. In BTS footage that aired before their final dance, they were seen growing frustrated with each other. When the Food Network star forgot her next step, Bersten snapped, “You know it!” and she let out an irritated sigh.

Bersten could also be heard questioning De Laurentiis for “not locking in for some reason” and she got emotional, anxiously telling him, “We only have so much time to go slow.” He then replied, “I’m the person with the least amount of patience, and I’m trying to tell you, ‘Let’s be patient.’”

Bristowe, who hosted BTS coverage of the season premiere on TikTok with Sasha Farber, told Hirsch she wasn’t surprised by the footage.

“Alan and I have been so close for so long, and I just know him,” Bristowe said. “And I know every pro on that show has different levels of intensity and passion. I made an oopsie a long time ago … I called him a name or something.”

“A dick,” Hirsch interjected, and Bristowe replied, “Yes, thank you. I did. But I was like, ‘Well, they’re all dicks,’ and then he was upset with me. Now people look at his intensity and go, ‘Oh, he’s being a dick. But really, I think he was hyping her up.”

In addition to dishing on DWTS, including Bristowe’s picks for the top season 35 duos, the new episode of Hulu’s Get Real includes why she turned down The Traitors and this week’s Red Flag Review where Dillard Bassett demonstrates how to recreate her infamous “cryangle.”

Am I the only one who still hears, “Pull the lever, Kronk!” in Eartha Kitt’s unmistakable voice? Her distinctively throaty lilt is embedded in my psyche. Before I even knew who she was, I knew what she sounded like. She was the sultry vocalist behind one of my favorite Christmas songs, “Santa Baby.” Her ominous warning and equally spine-tingling laugh made her character Madame Zeroni in the movie Holes all the more real. And don’t even get me started on her iconic turn as Catwoman. Talk about purrfect casting.

She was an enigma, to say the least. Beyond her dazzling acting chops and silky vocal abilities, though, Kitt also knew her way around the kitchen—not that I’m surprised. According to her daughter, Kitt Shapiro, no matter how far her mother came from her humble South Carolina roots, she stayed true to them in the kitchen. From classic Southern staples like fried chicken and collard greens to pot roast and crocked rabbit, Kitt’s philosophy was that the best dishes came from feeling. No measurements, just going with the flow. 

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It’s a culinary ideology yours truly also tends to live by, and since we’re such kindred spirits, I decided to try one of Kitt’s recipes out for myself. Enter Eartha Kitt’s Chicken Wings. Spoiler: this is one recipe you’ll want to cook again and again. Here’s how to make them, plus some tips to take them to the next level.

Ingredients for Eartha Kitt’s Chicken Wings

Courtesy Kenn C. Bivins

If you’re game to make wings even Catwoman would love, here’s what you’ll need: 3 pounds of chicken wings, 1 cup of water, a 19-ounce can of tomatoes (I used crushed), 2 to 3 carrots cut in half, 1 green bell pepper chopped, 2 medium onions chopped, 1 clove of garlic, 1 red pepper pod, 1 bay leaf, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, ½ teaspoon of celery salt, and salt and pepper to taste.

Now, if you’re anything like me, you’re probably raising an eyebrow at the amount of seasoning (or lack thereof), and just in case you needed permission, it’s perfectly acceptable to adjust it to your liking. In that same vein, it’s also OK to deviate from the recipe’s technique a bit to ensure your wings come out exactly how you want them. Here’s how to make Eartha Kitt’s chicken wings.

Related: Elizabeth Taylor’s Curried Chicken Salad Is a Retro Recipe Worth Trying

How to Make Eartha Kitt’s Chicken Wings

Courtesy Kenn C. Bivins

Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, you can approach cooking your wings one of two ways. You could follow Kitt’s recipe to the letter, or use it as more of a guide for the final product rather than the actual technique (I did the latter). 

To make them Kitt’s way, you’ll start by putting the wings into a pot with water and the canned tomatoes. Bring it to a boil, and reduce to simmer for 20 minutes. While the wings are boiling, chop your vegetables, then add them to the pot along with your seasonings. Let them simmer uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the meat is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. 

My way is pretty much the same, with a few adjustments that I feel really take this recipe over the top. For starters, I seasoned my wings and let them marinate for about an hour before cooking. I then browned them in my pot heated to medium to get some initial color on the wings. Next, I deglazed the pot with a little white wine before adding my veggies, chicken broth and crushed tomatoes. I added the chicken wings back to the pot, brought everything to a boil, reduced the heat to a simmer and then let it cook for about 45 minutes. 

Optionally, you can finish your wings in the oven to give them a little extra crisp. Once they’re done, spoon any of the reserved cooking liquid back over the wings to give them a bit of sauce and serve. I plated my wings up with candied yams and sautéed kale, but you could also make a big batch of these for a party and let everyone else bring the sides like a potluck. 

Admittedly, I was a bit skeptical about how the wings would turn out, especially given the lack of typical flavor-developing steps like browning or deglazing. But filling those gaps and adding those critical components back in really made all the difference. However you enjoy them, you definitely want to add this recipe to your rotation. 

Related: Award-Winning Chef Says These 3 Vintage Recipes From the 1960s Still Hold Up Today

What I Thought of Eartha Kitt’s Chicken Wings

Courtesy Kenn C. Bivins

Despite my quiet uncertainty about how this recipe would turn out, it actually ended up being one of my favorite meals of the week. The chicken wings were tender, savory and perfectly seasoned. They soaked up the flavor of the braising liquid like a sponge, and honestly, I’ll be making them again. Granted, I did take a few creative liberties with the recipe, but the base of the dish is still all Kitt—and she definitely knew what she was doing.

That said, if I had to make one critique, it’s that it’s not exactly as cut-and-dry as it appears to be. Not that it’s complicated in any way, but depending on how you like your chicken wings, you’ll have to make a few adjustments. I also found that the times in the recipe weren’t entirely accurate. If you just want your chicken wings cooked, then the 35-minute cook time in the recipe should be fine, but if you really want them to be tender and fall-off-the-bone, I recommend aiming for closer to 50 minutes. 

Other than that, the only thing you need to know about Eartha Kitt’s chicken wings recipe is that you should absolutely make it. It’s definitely one worth keeping in the rotation. Still, there are a few ways you can ensure you get delicious wings every single time—and I’m sure Kitt would agree.

Tips for Making Eartha Kitt’s Chicken Wings

While there’s no right or wrong way to make Eartha Kitt’s chicken wings, here are a few ways I took mine to the next level. Trust me, you’ll want to make a double batch.

1. Sub the water.

Although Eartha’s recipe calls for water and canned tomatoes as the liquid, every layer is another opportunity to add flavor, so why not swap the water for your favorite stock broth? You can even splash in a little white wine for some acidity or soy sauce for depth. To put it simply, the cooking liquid is effectively the main flavor vehicle of this dish, so it’s in your best interest to make it taste good. 

2. Season like you mean it.

Continuing down the same flavor path, it’s also a good idea to season your chicken before you cook it to help maintain the throughline of your dish. You could go bold with lots of chili and garlic, or keep it more simple with only salt and pepper. 

3. Go for crushed tomatoes.

Kitt doesn’t specify the kind of tomatoes she uses in her recipe (other than that they’re canned), and while you could definitely use whole or diced tomatoes here, crushed tomatoes give you the best payoff. They kind of melt into the sauce and help reinforce the umami-rich flavor. I opted to use Pomi Crushed Tomatoes with Garlic, but you could also reach for something fresh in a pinch. 

4. Crisp ’em up.

This one is more of a personal preference, but if you like your wings crispy, I highly recommend popping them into a preheated 400°F oven for a few minutes to let them get a bit more color. Once they’re done to your liking, spoon the reserved cooking liquid over to coat.

Final Thoughts

Although I can’t say it’s a textbook recipe with consistently accurate times and exact measurements, these chicken wings really give you a sense of Kitt’s personal ethos. It allows you the freedom to trust your instincts and cook without making it overly complicated. Once you’ve mastered the technique, you can try out different flavors or even develop a recipe of your very own. Wherever this recipe takes you, just remember to keep dancing to the beat of your own drum.

Related: Desi Arnaz’s Paprika Steak Recipe Is the Epitome of Old-School Comfort Food

Raquell Brown has filed for divorce from Alaskan Bush People star Gabriel “Gabe” Brown, ending a seven-year marriage.

Raquell, 29, filed on Sept. 22, citing the common no-fault ground that the marriage is “irretrievably broken,” according to court documents obtained by Us Weekly. Gabe, 36, lives in Washington, while Raquell lives in Minnesota with the couple’s three children.

Gabe’s brother, Bear Brown, 39, confirmed the split in a TikTok video on Sept. 29. He also pushed back on July reports that the couple had been separated since April, insisting that wasn’t the case.

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In the filing, Raquell asks for a fair division of property, temporary spousal support and child support. She also wants Gabe to cover the divorce costs, including her attorney fees, as well as the kids’ medical care, daycare, education, transportation and future college or trade school expenses.

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Gabe’s sister, Rain Brown, introduced the pair in 2018, and their first date fell on Valentine’s Day. They married in a small ceremony on Jan. 14 of the following year, then held a second wedding in June with friends and family.

“We’re so happy to have found each other and can’t wait for what life has in store for us,” Gabe told People at the time.

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Their first daughter, Sophie, arrived five months later. In October 2021, Raquell shared a photo of Sophie with her newborn sister and asked for privacy. The couple welcomed their third child and first son, Buck, in September 2025, and Bear, 29, celebrated the news later on Instagram, boasting that he was the first sibling to hold the baby.

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Viewers first met Gabe and the Brown family when Alaskan Bush People premiered on Discovery Channel in 2014. The couple’s second wedding aired as a special episode, “Wedding in the Wild.”

“All of my nervousness, the pre-wedding jitters and all of that, it just stopped as soon as I saw Raquell walking down the aisle,” Gabe said in the special. “It was like I was coming through a storm on a dark night and all of a sudden I pulled into a nice, safe harbor.”

Nearly two months after live-streaming his mental breakdown, Perez Hilton’s team is sharing a health update on the celebrity blogger.

In a post shared on his website, Hilton’s team thanked fans for their ongoing support and revealed that the 48-year-old has “reconnected” with his three kids and mom amid ongoing treatment.

“We’re very happy to share that over the past few weeks, Perez has been able to reconnect with his children and his mom,” the post read. “They were first able to spend time together through a few video calls, and since then, Perez has also been able to see his children and his mom a few times for short, supervised visits at the facility.”

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The statement continued, “Seeing his children in person has meant an enormous amount to Perez. There have definitely been a lot of emotions for everyone, but being able to spend that time together has been incredibly meaningful and healing.”

Despite the improvement, Hilton is still in residential treatment, and there is no timeline for his return home.

On August 4, 2026, Hilton went live on several social media platforms and engaged in self-harm, prompting viewers and family to call the police to his home in Miami, Fla. It was reported at the time that his three kids, Mario, Mayte, and Mia, were home at the time of the suicide attempt.

Since then, Hilton’s mother, Teresita, has been given custody of the children, and his team has set up a GoFundMe page to help support the family.

“Like any grandmother who suddenly finds herself responsible for raising three growing children, she’s also taken on significant and unexpected expenses. She’s put much of her own life on hold to make sure the kids can continue going to school, participating in their normal activities, and having as much consistency as possible during an incredibly difficult time,” the fundraiser reads.

At the time of publication, the page has raised $15,000 of its $25,000 goal.

If your idea of holiday decorating involves turning a tabletop into a tiny Christmas wonderland, Aldi has something worth making room for. The cult-favorite retailer is bringing back the magic of miniature festive villages with its new Merry Moments Gingerbread Village collection, featuring ceramic houses and buildings and festive trees, trains, sleighs and nutcracker pieces.

The collection hits Aldi stores on Oct. 7, giving holiday decorators plenty of time to build a sweet little village before the holiday season rolls around. And with 16 pieces in the collection, there are plenty of ways to mix and match the designs to create a display that feels uniquely yours.

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Merry Moments Gingerbread Ceramic Village, $9.99 to $12.99 at Aldi

Aldi

Here’s what shoppers can find in the collection:

Gingerbread Village Houses — $12.99 Each

• Large Arch Window House: A larger gingerbread ceramic building with a prominent arched window that could make a charming focal point.
• Circle Window Villa: A petite villa with a round window and classic gingerbread details.
• Village Church: A miniature church that gives the display a Hallmark-style town look.
• Chimney House: An extra cozy gingerbread house with decorative chimneys.
• Awning House: A sweet village home featuring a pretty beaded awning.
• Oval Open Door House: A whimsical house with an oval doorway that adds another distinctive shape to the collection.

Related: Target’s Cute $12 Quilted Floral Placemats Are Peak Cottagecore

Gingerbread Village Accessories — $9.99 Each

• Star Tree: A festive tree topped with a star design.
• Snowflake Tree: An evergreen tree featuring a snowflake motif.
• Gift Nutcracker: A miniature nutcracker-themed piece with a gift design.
• Candy Cane Nutcracker: A playful nutcracker with classic candy-cane holiday details.

• Swirl Train: A whimsical miniature train with a colorful swirl design.
• Peppermint Train: A festive train featuring peppermint Christmas styling.
• LED Truck: A tiny holiday truck with built-in LED lighting that adds a little glow to the village display.

• Rectangular Sleigh: A classic miniature sleigh that can be tucked among the houses and other village pieces.
• Curved Sleigh: Another sleigh design with a curved silhouette for adding variety to the display.
• Reindeer: A pair of miniature reindeer that can complete the Santa-worthy village scene.

Whether you have an entire shelf dedicated to Christmas village collecting or just want a small festive display, Aldi’s new collection offers plenty of pieces to put together your own little scene. Be sure to add the Oct. 7 drop date to your calendar, because a tiny gingerbread town should be the newest addition to your holiday decorating plans.

Related: T.J. Maxx Just Stocked a $10 Marble Soap Dish That Looks So Luxe

Rock fans were heartbroken over the news of the Linkin Park singer and co-founder, Chester Bennington, death by suicide in 2017, with the band detailing their grief and creative struggles in their new documentary.

The nu-metal band emerged as one of the defining groups of the 1990s, releasing hit songs and albums that climbed the charts and established them among rock’s best-selling acts of all time. In 2017, the frontman was announced to have died at the age of 41 as a result of suicide by hanging.

In their new documentary, Unshatter, the original and current members of Linkin Park look back at how his death changed the trajectory of the band’s future and navigating their return after a seven-year hiatus.

Joe Hahn, the band’s DJ, recalls how “everything stopped” when learning the news of Bennington’s death and how each member dealt with grief differently. Mike Shinoda revealed in the documentary that the band was feeling good about their latest album, One More Light, and was ready to hit the road when it came to a “crashing halt.”

The singer and rapper adds that after Bennington’s death, the band tried to reconnect and come back together, but the “momentum wasn’t really there.” The members agreed that they were all processing his death differently and their recording sessions didn’t feel the same.

“The band would get together to make music, and we’d enjoy the session, but then it would be empty after that,” Hahn told PEOPLE. “We all kind of went our separate ways, and we didn’t really try to keep it going. Everybody was going through their own thing.”

For the band, their grief was not only one of their biggest challenges, but also trying to figure out where Linkin Park was headed without their frontman. The band formed in 1996 and gained fame with their albums Hybrid Theory, Meteora, and countless hit singles like “Crawling” and “In the End.” Their music and Bennington became a critical aspect of many fans’ lives.

“The difficult part of it is what you see in the film — just trying to get back on our feet and find purpose in our daily lives and rekindle our bonds,” Hahn told PEOPLE. “A big part of us, our good friend, was gone. How [do we] pick up the pieces?”

Some years later, the remaining members reunited, with Hahn explaining that their goal was to simply make “music with these friends” and enjoy the process again. Drummer and co-founder Rob Bourdon decided not to return to Linkin Park after Bennington’s death, feeling it wasn’t a good fit. The members respected his decision.

Linkin Park announced the end of their hiatus and return in 2024, with Emily Armstrong as the band’s new lead singer. Despite backlash, the band released their eighth studio album, From Zero, and landed at No.2 on the Billboard 200 chart.

“He’s still always with us,” Hahn says of Bennington. “He’s a big part of everything we do. He lives through not just the music, but everyone he’s touched.”

Related: Naked Eyes’ Peter Byrne Official Cause of Death Revealed

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There’s a reason so many of us make a beeline for the bed after checking into a beautiful hotel. Between the crisp sheets, fluffy pillows, and perfectly layered linens, it’s often the most inviting spot in the entire room. And while daily housekeeping and room service might be out of reach at home, recreating that luxurious atmosphere in your own bedroom is easier than you might think.

If your space could use a refresh ahead of the colder months, Walmart has a deal worth checking out. The Mainstays 3-Piece Waffle Comforter Set brings the understated elegance of a five-star retreat to your own sleeping quarters, complete with a textured finish that makes the bed look beautifully put together. Normally $34, it’s currently marked down to just $25, saving you $10. Whether you’re updating your primary suite or preparing the guest room for holiday visitors, it’s a simple way to give your bedding a polished makeover without splurging.

Mainstays 3-Piece Waffle Comforter Set, $25 (was $34) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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The waffle-knit texture is what gives this comforter its more expensive-looking finish. A fine, dimensional weave adds visual depth across the bed, while subtle tufting creates the plush, pillowy appearance you might expect to find in a beautifully appointed suite. The reverse is smooth for a cleaner look on the other side, and the mossy green color brings an earthy richness that looks particularly striking against crisp white sheets and warm wood furniture.

That combination of texture and simplicity also makes the set easy to style for a professionally dressed look. Layer a pair of oversized pillows behind the matching shams, fold back the comforter to reveal thick percale or flannel sheets, and drape a soft throw across the foot of the bed. Upholstered furniture, matching bedside lamps, and warm ambient lighting can further capture the inviting feel of an upscale retreat. And if mossy green isn’t quite right for your space, the set also comes in white, grey, and pink.

Mainstays 3-Piece Waffle Comforter Set, $25 (was $34) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Despite its substantial, fluffy appearance, the comforter is lightweight enough for all-season use. It’s made from 100% polyester microfiber with poly fill, providing a soft extra layer without restricting it to the coldest months of the year. Once temperatures drop, simply layer on a heavier blanket or throw for additional warmth.

Shop More Deals

• Exclusivo Mezcla Ultrasonic Quilt Set, from $27 (was $49) at Walmart
• Mainstays Printed 3-Piece Comforter Set, from $26 (was $34) at Walmart
• Mainstays Shadow Plaid 3-Piece Comforter Set, from $26 (was $34) at Walmart

The three-piece set includes one comforter and two matching pillow shams, making it easy to create a coordinated bed without piecing everything together separately. It’s offered in both full/queen and king sizes. The microfiber fabric is machine washable and can be tumble dried on low.

Walmart shoppers praised this “elegant,” “fresh,” and “clean” ensemble for its “hotel-inspired look” in the reviews section. “The fabric feels soft and comfortable, and the comforter has just the right amount of fluff without feeling too heavy,” one customer wrote.

Related: JCPenney’s Beautiful Autumn-Inspired Bedding Set Is Under $70

Your bedroom’s five-star upgrade is officially on sale. Shop the Mainstays 3-Piece Waffle Comforter Set for $25 at Walmart while it’s 26% off!

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Most travelers buy insurance, hoping they never have to use it. The confusion usually starts when something actually goes wrong.

A canceled trip, medical emergency or missing bag may seem like an obvious claim, but whether you’re reimbursed depends on the policy language and the reason behind the loss. That can make travel insurance feel harder to understand than it should be.

Before buying a policy, it helps to know which situations are commonly covered—and which ones may fall outside the fine print. Here’s everything you need to know.

TravelInsurance.com lets travelers compare participating plans side by side, including the benefit limits and policy details that determine what is actually covered.

What Does a Typical Travel Insurance Policy Cover?

Coverage varies from one policy to the next, but comprehensive plans commonly combine several benefits:

Coverage

What It May Reimburse

Trip cancellation

Eligible prepaid, nonrefundable trip costs

Trip interruption

Unused trip costs and certain additional transportation expenses

Travel delay

Eligible meals, lodging and other expenses after a qualifying delay

Emergency medical

Covered treatment for an unexpected illness or injury

Medical evacuation

Eligible transportation to an appropriate medical facility

Baggage protection

Covered lost, stolen, damaged or delayed belongings

It’s important to remember that these benefits aren’t automatic for every situation. Each one has its own limits, definitions and covered reasons.

Does Travel Insurance Cover Trip Cancellation?

Trip cancellation coverage can reimburse eligible prepaid, nonrefundable expenses when you cancel for a reason covered by the policy. Depending on the plan, covered reasons may include certain illnesses or injuries, the death of a family member, severe weather or other events specifically listed in the contract.

NAIC explains that cancellation and interruption coverage can reimburse prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses when an insured traveler is prevented from taking all or part of a trip for a covered reason. Simply changing your mind generally isn’t covered by standard trip cancellation insurance.

Travelers wanting broader cancellation flexibility can look for a qualifying Cancel For Any Reason, or CFAR, option, although it typically costs more and reimburses only a percentage of insured trip costs.

What Does Trip Interruption Insurance Pay For?

Trip interruption coverage applies after the trip has already started. If a covered event forces you to cut the vacation short, the benefit may reimburse eligible unused prepaid expenses and certain additional transportation costs needed to return home or continue the trip.

For example, some policies provide interruption coverage when an insured traveler or a qualifying family member becomes seriously ill. The exact trigger matters, though. Leaving early for a reason that isn’t covered by the policy usually won’t qualify.

When comparing plans through TravelInsurance.com, look at trip cancellation and interruption separately. Benefit limits and covered reasons may differ even within the same policy.

Does Travel Insurance Cover Flight Delays and Cancellations?

It can, but travel insurance and airline obligations are separate.

Trip-delay coverage may reimburse eligible expenses such as meals and lodging when a covered delay lasts longer than the minimum period specified by the policy. If an airline itself cancels your flight and you choose not to travel, however, U.S. Department of Transportation rules generally require the airline to refund the ticket. The same applies to certain significant schedule changes when the passenger rejects the alternative offered.

Travel insurance may be useful for other losses the airline doesn’t reimburse, provided the delay or cancellation meets the policy terms.

Related: The Best 36-Hour Vacation Hacks Travel Pros Taught Me When You’re Out of PTO

Does Travel Insurance Cover Medical Emergencies?

Many travel insurance policies include emergency medical coverage for eligible illnesses and injuries that occur during the insured trip. That can be especially important overseas.

The U.S. Department of State advises travelers to verify what their regular health insurance covers abroad and notes that the U.S. government does not pay Americans’ medical bills overseas. It also recommends considering travel health insurance when existing coverage is inadequate.

Coverage may include physician services, hospital treatment and other medically necessary expenses up to the policy limit. Pre-existing conditions require particular attention. Some plans exclude them unless the traveler qualifies for a waiver by meeting specific purchase and eligibility requirements.

Does Travel Insurance Cover Medical Evacuation?

Many comprehensive plans include emergency evacuation benefits, but medical necessity and insurer approval requirements often apply. This is important to consider, given how costly it is. For example, the State Department says air-ambulance transportation back to the United States can cost approximately $20,000 to $200,000, depending on location and medical condition.

Medical evacuation coverage may pay eligible transportation expenses when a traveler needs to reach an appropriate medical facility. This benefit deserves close attention when traveling to remote destinations or places with limited medical care.

Does Travel Insurance Cover Lost or Delayed Baggage?

Baggage coverage may reimburse eligible belongings that are lost, stolen or damaged during a trip. Baggage-delay benefits can also reimburse certain necessary purchases when luggage does not arrive on time.

It’s important to note, however, that benefit limits and per-item caps apply, which can be particularly important for electronics, jewelry or other expensive belongings.

Airlines also have their own responsibilities. DOT rules require airlines to compensate passengers for covered lost, delayed or damaged baggage when the bags were under the airline’s control, subject to applicable liability limits.

Related: I Often Travel with My 80-Year-Old Mom and Teens—Here’s the One Thing I Always Do Differently

What Doesn’t Travel Insurance Cover?

This is where reading the policy becomes essential. Common exclusions can include foreseeable events that occurred before coverage was purchased, non-covered pre-existing medical conditions, certain high-risk activities and losses resulting from other excluded circumstances.

TravelInsurance.com notes that coverage varies by plan and that exclusions may apply to areas such as pre-existing conditions and some risky activities. Standard trip cancellation coverage also doesn’t give you unrestricted freedom to cancel for any reason.

How Do You Know What Your Travel Insurance Covers?

Start with the policy’s Schedule of Benefits, then read the definitions, covered reasons and exclusions. The benefit name alone isn’t enough. Two plans may both advertise emergency medical, trip delay or baggage coverage while offering very different limits and requirements.

That makes comparison particularly important. Look at the risks that would create the biggest financial problem for your trip, then compare policies based on those benefits rather than the longest list of features.

TravelInsurance.com allows travelers to compare participating plans, coverage limits and benefits side by side before purchasing. Always review the actual policy documents to confirm what is covered for your trip.

Beyond the Gates fans, it is time to get ready to celebrate as CBS’s newest daytime drama is set to continue celebrating African American heritage by showcasing the homecoming of its HBCU!

The NAACP and Procter & Gamble co-produced series will be taking viewers on a fun adventure beginning Friday, October 2 and continuing Monday, October 5, 2026, as the residents of Fairmount Crest gather together at the Dupree family home for what is being described as a “spirited tailgate” ahead of Banneker’s Homecoming.

In a sneak preview photo, viewers get their first glimpse of the cast decked out in the university’s signature crimson and gold.

Viewers will see that five generations of the Dupree family have attended Banneker; this Homecoming is more than just a celebration; rather, it’s a cherished family legacy.

For those in Fairmount Crest, this event will offer an exciting opportunity to honor their shared history, celebrate their HBCU pride, and bring the community together in a way no event or tradition before has.

The event will culminate with a spirited bus ride to the game, where the entire group will sing the Banneker University Fight Song, “Fight on.”

Viewers were given their first look at the bus ride, with an exciting photo of the cast.

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CBS also released a sneak preview of Friday’s installment, as Vernon (Clifton Davis) and his wife Anita (Tamara Tunie) prepare for their family to come over and begin celebrating Homecoming ahead of their arrival.

Beyond The Gates Homecoming Preview (0:44)

On-screen, The Duprees’ great grandson Tyrell Richardson (Jaden Lucas Miller) recently began attending Banneker University, keeping the family’s legacy intact.

In preparation for the upcoming event, Beyond the Gates released a fun flyer promoting the homecoming event.

The Banneker University homecoming event airs October 2, 2026 and continues on October 5, 2026, airing on CBS.

Beyond the Gates airs weekdays on CBS and streams weeknights on Paramount+. Viewers can also catch up on Beyond the Gates from the beginning on Paramount+, Tubi, and Pluto’s dedicated 24/7 Beyond the Gates FAST channel

Paul McCartney felt a pain he had never experienced before after the Beatles broke up.

The 84-year-old musician and songwriter is opening up about the legendary rock group’s end. The band was made up of the “Fab Four”: McCartney, John Lennon, Ringo Starr, and George Harrison until they broke up in 1970.

McCartney joined Judd Apatow after a screening of his new documentary, Man on the Run, which follows the singer as he begins his post-Beatles era.

“It was, what do you do after the Beatles?” he said, according to Variety. “You know, the Beatles break up, that’s been your only job you’ve ever had, and then you don’t have it anymore. It’s like you got sacked.”

McCartney felt lost and had a “mental breakdown.” He shared, “I mean, I did start drinking. I was up in Scotland on my own, (with a) new little family. No one was gonna tell me off for drinking too much … and it was a lot of fun ‘til it wasn’t.”

The “Hey Jude” singer got back on track because of his love for his family. He described his late wife, Linda McCartney, as a “very smart woman” who “let” him grieve the band the way he needed to.

“I think just being on my own was very scary, because I’d always had the union of the group,” he explained.

McCartney went on to form the band Wings with his wife. The group is responsible for hits like “Band on the Run” and “My Love.” Their 1971 album Ram was heavily criticized.

“I thought we’d got something special, and they didn’t, the critics. But critics criticize, and they criticized me,” McCartney said. “And the worst bit is I bought into it. I listened to the critics and had sort of gone, ‘Mm, maybe they’re right. I don’t know.’ And it went for years that I thought it wasn’t a very good album.”

Paul McCartney: Man on the Run is out now on Prime Video.

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If you’ve been searching for a better way to organize your indoor plants without making your home feel like a cluttered greenhouse, Ebern Designs’ Plant Stand with Grow Lights is worth a look right now. It’s on sale for between $75 and $76 at Wayfair, down from $150, and it comes in three colors: white, rustic brown, and black. 

The stand measures 66.9 inches high, 27.5 inches long, and 13.4 inches deep, so it offers plenty of vertical storage without taking up much floor space. It has eight shelves, a hanging hook, and three built-in plant growth lights with 10 brightness levels and three timing modes. It’s made from manufactured wood, iron, and waterproof, rust-proof particleboard, which makes it a practical option for anyone regularly dealing with everyday plant mess.

Ebern Designs Plant Stand with Grow Lights, From $75 (was $150) at Wayfair

Courtesy of Wayfair

Shop at Wayfair

This stand is designed to keep all your plants in one place and gives smaller homes and apartments an easy way to display them without making the room feel crowded. The built-in grow lights also make it super useful for rooms that don’t get enough direct sun, so there’s less work required to keep your plants thriving.

Shoppers have described it as “sturdy and stylish,” noting that the stand is “perfect for a small space.” One reviewer said it’s “easy to assemble” and “totally worth it,” while another wrote, “This is so beautiful! My plants are very happy with their new digs.”

You can fill it entirely with leafy plants and trailing vines, or break it up with a candle, a framed photo, a small stack of books, or a pretty planter to add a little contrast. The tree-like silhouette keeps it from looking like basic storage, and it feels more like decor that happens to be useful than a purely practical fix.

Related: Wayfair Is Selling a ‘Supportive’ Oversized Cloud Couch With Built-In Storage for Over 70% Off

Whether you’re looking into indoor gardening, cozy home decor, space-saving organization, or affordable furniture upgrades, this stand ticks all of those boxes. With Wayfair marking it down from $150 to $75, now is a great time to snag the Ebern Designs Plant Stand with Grow Lights before the price goes back up.

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Sophia Bush revealed a detail for the first time in her new memoir, And I Will Tell You Mine: Notes from a Life in Progress. She and her soccer player partner, Ashlyn Harris, are officially married. The two tied the knot in the summer of 2025 in a private ceremony.

The former One Tree Hill star has been with Harris for three years. They decided to take all the pressure off the big day, putting the focus on family, which included Harris’ two children, Sloane and Ocean. 

To mark the release of her memoir, Bush went on to share the reason for them keeping their marriage a secret in an interview with Vogue. It was a chance to avoid the pressure, as she shared, “It’s such a privilege to be able to perform as an athlete or an actor, but it also comes with certain costs.”

One of those costs is that every aspect of your personal life is now public knowledge. People are watching for when births happen, when marriages and breakups take place, and much more. There are expectations set for the way a big day should take place, and that trickles down to the younger members of the family who never asked for it.

Harris, who is a former professional soccer player, explained that the entire day was a chance to be a family. It meant that the children could run around and be happy, rather than feel like they had to put on an appearance for strangers. She went on to express, “It was so precious, and zero pressure. I will never forget it, and I think wedding days sometimes aren’t like that.”

John Nacion / Getty Images

Once the big day was over, the couple shared the news with the rest of their friends. It was then they had to figure out how to reveal it to the world, so that they didn’t have to keep anything else a secret.

The memoir is extremely personal for Bush, and something that she has put off for almost a decade. Her personal story is filled with heartbreak, starting with her public relationship with, and then divorce from fellow One Tree Hill star Chad Michael Murray, and then her 13-month marriage to Grant Hughes.

Bush was initially linked to Harris in October 2023, before her divorce from Hughes was finalized. However, it was in 2024 that the two confirmed their relationship, with the two of them confirming that they wanted to make sure they were visible. It didn’t matter what the public thought, but they knew that “visibility matters” when it comes to younger people who may feel like they are living in a black hole or void without support. They need to see others like them in the public eye, and that’s what Bush and Harris want to be for them.

And I Will Tell You Mine: Notes from a Life in Progress will be released on Oct. 27, and this is just a snapshot of the story Bush is sharing with fans.

It’s a good time to be a 7 Brew regular who’s been wishing for a way to protein-boost your drinks. The drive-through coffee chain just announced that starting on Oct. 1, customers will have the option to add protein to any drink on the menu for $2 more.

Starting Oct. 1, a 15-gram protein boost can be added to any 7 Brew drink, from iced coffee to smoothies, for a $2 fee. In a press release, the brand said this boost can be added to 7 Brew Coffee, 7 Brew Energy, 7 Fizz Soda, Tea, Lemonade, Smoothies, and Shakes, and has been being tested in the Dallas-Fort Worth area since August.

For $2 more, guests can add 15 grams of protein to their 7 Brew drink.

7 Brew

“Our guests told us they wanted protein, so we found a way to make it work the 7 Brew way with more choices, more flavors and no limits to what kind of drink it can go in,” said Nick Chavez, chief marketing officer at 7 Brew in the release. “Coffee in the morning? Add protein. Energy in the afternoon? Add protein. Smoothie after a workout? Go for it. Whatever the 7 Brew order is, our guests can add protein.”

But protein isn’t the only thing coming to 7 Brew on October 1—the brand has also announced a line-up of Halloween-inspired beverages. Here’s what’s on 7 Brew’s Halloween, limited-time menu:

• Pumpkin Blondie: A cozy blend of the signature blondie with warm pumpkin pie flavors
• Drizzled Apple 7 Fizz Soda: Crisp green apple topped with a rich caramel drizzle
• Rocky Road Mocha: Rich mocha layered with toasted marshmallow, hazelnut and caramel, then finished with whipped cream
• Nightshade 7 Brew Energy: An electrifying blend of blue raspberry, pomegranate and lavender
• Boo Raspberry Smoothie: A refreshing blue pomegranate smoothie blended with blue raspberry, pomegranate and strawberry

Other 7 Brew promotions coming in October include Jackpot Day on Oct. 7, where guests who purchase any two medium or large drinks will receive a Halloween sticker sheet, Fill-A-Tray day on Oct. 31, where your Halloween crew can get four medium drinks for $17, and a surprise drink drop the brand describes as “sure to make Frankenstein rise from his slumber.”

A recall notice has been published by the United States Food and Drug Administration for 3,240 cases of 7Up soda due to a labeling error. According to the notice published by the governmental agency, the initial recall was issued on August 20 before it was labeled a Class II recall on September 29. 

Related: Recall Issued for Candy Sold at Walmart, H-E-B ‘Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death’

A Class II recall is defined as one in which there is a “lower chance of causing major injuries or death,” but the “possibility of serious enough adverse events,” which could have irreversible consequences, is still present. 

The affected cases of 7Up, which total 77,760 cans of soda, are mislabeled as 7Up Tropical on the outside, but hold cans that are labeled as 7Up Tropical Zero Sugar. However, the beverage inside the cans is actually full-sugar soda. As such, the recall was issued because the “product may contain undeclared sugar,” states the FDA notice. 

Related: Popular Reese’s, Almond Joy Ice Cream Bars Recalled Nationwide

The recalled sodas were distributed in Utah, and can be identified by the lot or batch code UT06176. They also have a best-by date of March 17, 2027. Though the recall notice does not explicitly state that the beverages are unsafe to drink, consumers who have been advised by medical professionals to reduce or eliminate their sugar intake should be cautious. 

This recall comes on the heels of a wave of high-impact food recalls that shook the country this summer. In addition to the highly publicized Cyclospora outbreak linked to lettuce, there have also been recent recalls for a variety of products, from beef and pork to a popular frozen dessert sold at major national retailers including Walmart, Target, and Kroger. 

Next: Recall Issued for Candy Sold at Marshalls, TJ Maxx, HomeGoods

Ezra Sosa had a three-word reaction to the Dancing with the Stars Season 35 Week 3 elimination.

Shortly after it was announced that singer Taylor Hanson and pro dancer Britt Stewart were the eliminated couple for the Yacht Rock theme night, Sosa, 25, commented on a TikTok video of the moment, writing, “I’m so pissed.”

The TikTok video showed Stewart near tears after saying ”Oh my God” when her and Hanson’s names were announced as the eliminated couple by host Alfonso Ribeiro. She then turned to Hanson and told him, “I’m so sorry.”

The caption to the post read, “Oh Britt was definitely holding back what she really wanted to say.”

Fans were stunned by the DWTS elimination, especially given that Hanson, 43, and Stewart, 36, were far from the lowest scoring couple on the live show. The two earned 18 out of 30 points for their foxtrot to the Doobie Brothers’ song “What a Fool Believes,” tying with two other couples who had that score, and much higher than final place finishers Guillermo Rodriguez and Witney Carson, who only scored 15 points from the judges.

Stewart was all class while giving her final thoughts at the end of the show, telling Hanson, “Taylor, I am so grateful that I have you in my life. Thank you so much for everything. Thank you.”

View this post on Instagram

Stewart, who joined Dancing with the Stars as the first Black female pro dancer in 2020, has never made it to the finals in the ABC celebrity ballroom competition. Her highest-charting season was fifth place in Season 31 when she was partnered with Daniel Durant, whom she would go on to marry in 2025.

Following her latest—and by far most shocking—elimination, fans showered Stewart with love and support on social media.

Sosa also posted a poignant message on his Instagram story, captioning a photo of the dancer with Hanson.

“This one really hurts,” Sosa wrote. “Britt, I am so proud of you and honestly just gut-wrenched for you.  I hope you know how deeply loved you are and how much your light, heart, and talent mean to this show and to all of us who get to know and love you. You give so much of yourself every single season, and I just hope you know how special you are. You are a freaking superstar, always have been and always will be. I love you so much.”

Sosa is partnered with actress Julia Stiles for Dancing With the Stars Season 35.

Related: ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Announces New Theme Night

While Love Island USA Season 6 star JaNa Craig may not be headed back to the world of reality TV dating as a contestant, Craig is set to make her debut as a host of one, only with a scripted twist.

Craig is set to be the host on the upcoming vertical The Compatibility Experience by HooraMedia, a production company led by Insecure’s Issa Rae.

In addition to Craig, soap opera fans will notice that the leading couple, Camila and Kelvin, are portrayed by former General Hospital star Tajh Bellow and former The Young and the Restless star Loren Lott.

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Hoora Media dropped a first look promo for the vertical on social media. The post teased, “Camila and Kelvin think they know reality shows. But with life-changing money on the line, this reality check hits different. 👀”

View this post on Instagram

Previously, Bellow and Lott participated in a social media trend to promote the vertical, as the two “prepared for their new Hoorae microseries about surviving a dating show.”

This will be the second time Craig and Bellow have worked together in a scripted series, as the two previously participated in the Credit One web series You’re The Credit One For Me.

Craig remains booked and busy following her exit from Love Island USA, as the fan favorite will return to the Peacock fold, having been confirmed for the upcoming season of The Traitors.

What are verticals?

Vertical dramas are the newest trend taking over the internet. They are content filmed with the understanding that they will be consumed on mobile devices; thus, their aspect ratio is designed with this in mind.

“Episodes” are also crafted to be fast-paced and to last only a few minutes, allowing viewers to avoid making large time commitments to watch their favorite series.

Depending on the platform, there is typically a free ad-supported option to watch the dramas unfold, or a paid ad-free option.

The Compatibility Experiment premieres October 14, exclusively on TikTok and PineDrama.

There is a loneliness that comes with separation and divorce — a grief that is hard to explain. It’s something that Sophie, Standing There by Meg Mason covers, and it’s no wonder it’s the October 2026 pick of the month for Reese Witherspoon’s book club.

If there is anyone who understands that type of grief, it’s Witherspoon, who went through a rather public divorce from Ryan Phillippe. When sharing the novel as her book club’s pick, she noted that Sophie, Standing There is “a funny and tender story about loneliness, connection, and finding your way back to yourself.”

The story follows Sophie Pattison, a woman who adores books. She also loves her husband, and believes that he adores her, has a best friend for life, and a brother she is close to. On top of that, she has her dream job, but then her life comes crashing down around her.

As we meet her, we learn that her husband has left her. He didn’t even give her the courtesy of a discussion. He wanted her out of the house; the end of everything she once held dear was gone. And then we learn more, as that grief affects everything around her. All her relationships and her dream job feel a million miles away, and the only hope is rediscovering an author she read in her 20s.

Courtesy of HarperCollins

Relationships are complex. They take work to nurture, but they should also be fun and feel effortless. It’s a hard balance to find, and Mason captures the heartache and dark humor of all the complexity within life. It’s a beautiful piece of literary fiction, focusing on the power of human connection. What happens when people really see us for who we are?

Sophie, Standing There was originally published in August 2026. While it’s possibly not the scary story that many people expected for an October release, there is a horror element within it. After all, grief brings its own stories of fear and uncertainty, and it’s something so innately human that we can all appreciate it.

At first, the novel of a sad woman doesn’t sound appealing. Mason has a way of bringing humor to the story. She can get inside the heads of each of her characters in a way so many other authors fail to do, and you’ll start to wonder if Sophie is you at times.