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Three metal heavyweights are paying tribute to Accept by resurrecting a song that even the band’s own guitarist had nearly forgotten about.

Anthrax bassist Frank Bello, Ghost frontman Tobias Forge, and Korn drummer Ray Luzier have teamed up with Accept for a new version of “Save Us,” a 1980 deep cut that Forge crowned as his favorite song by the German metal outfit.

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Originally written by Accept’s Udo Dirkschneider, Wolf Hoffmann, Peter Baltes, Jörg Fischer, and Stefan Kaufmann, the song appears on the band’s second studio album, I’m a Rebel.

According to Brave Words, Accept’s core architect, Hoffmann, spearheaded the production, with support from legendary producer Zeuss. The idea to give the ’80s deep cut a facelift came from Forge, who is a massive fan of the track. Connecting with Hoffmann at a show in Stockholm, the two agreed that the cinematic structure of the song perfectly complemented Forge’s vocal style.

“‘Save Us’? I don’t even remember that song,” Hoffmann joked, per Louder. “Nobody has even mentioned that song! I had to go back and listen to it. After I saw a Ghost show, it all made sense to me. It really fits his style, and I could really imagine him doing that song really well. He’s right; it’s a fun song!”

The track, part of Accept’s 50th anniversary tribute album, Teutonic Titans 1976-2026, breathes new life into the deep cut, elevating a fast-paced classic into a modern heavy metal masterpiece. The song is available to stream now (see below), but its 19-track parent album is slated for release next month, Sept. 4, via Napalm Records.

“Save Us” was a defining track for Accept. Transitioning from the traditional rock-and-roll sound of their hits “Balls to the Wall” and “Fast as a Shark,” the song laid the groundwork for the foundational speed and power metal sound they would later blaze. It basically captured the raw, unpolished version of Accept before they became global stars.

The newly re-recorded version of “Save Us” preserves the classic ’80s metal groove but adds a modern, stadium-rock edge. Forge commands the track, with his theatrical vocals lending the song a distinct vibe, while Luzier leans heavily “in the pocket,” driving the track forward with Bello’s pulsing bass providing the core backbone.

The tribute album was announced earlier this year. Featuring guest appearances from 50 rock and heavy metal musicians, including Metallica lead guitarist Kirk Hammett, ex-Motörhead drummer Mikkey Dee, and The Smashing Pumpkins’ Billy Corgan, the record is jacked, with “Save Us” serving as the third single released thus far.

Currently, Accept is celebrating its 50th on tour. Making their way through Europe, they’ll wrap up with a headliner in November and December in their native Germany. And no doubt accept the unlikely resurrection of a song that was totally of their radar.

Related: ’90s Rock Legends Behind ‘Voodoo,’ Who Just Played for 700,000, Head Back Stateside With New Fall Dates

If fans’ reaction to leaked footage from 2027’s Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse is any indication, the wait for the next installment is going to be agonizing.

Despite co-writer and producer Chris Miller showing his disappointment with the X comment: “Not a fan of leaks of unfinished, not fully rendered footage,” Spider-Man aficionados are thrilled with what they’re seeing.

“HOLY S**T WE’RE NOT JUST BACK WHEN NEVER EVEN LEFT WATCHED THIS WHOLE THING WITH THE BIGGEST GRIN RAAHHHH,” wrote one excited fan.

“IM SO GEEKED LET’S GOOOOOOO,” wrote another.

At April’s CinemaCon, Miller was joined by his co-writer and fellow producer Phil Lord, along with directors Justin K. Thompson and Bob Persichetti. Part of the footage seems to be taken partly from what was shown, along with splices of other scenes. Miller called the film (via The Hollywood Reporter) “the most emotional Spider-Verse film we have ever made.” 

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Unfortunately, many have also complained about the long wait between Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse and the third film. Miller defended the delay, explaining that the “detour” to direct Project Hail Mary partly caused it, but they wanted to make sure it was a worthy successor to the first two films. Then, they decided there was too much story to tell, and they split Beyond the Spider-Verse into two films.

Having to take it apart to put it back together again was really, really [the] real thing that made it take longer,” Miller admitted to Gizmodo.

Now that they’ve been given a look at the new film, many are feeling a new sense of calm, confident that Beyond the Spider-Verse will be worth the wait.

“This movie is going to change my life, and this trilogy is going to be the most beautiful thing I’ve ever witnessed,” commented another on the four and a half minutes of footage. “What they’ve done and are going to do with Miles’ Spider-Man in this sequel is PERFECT.”

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Summer isn’t over just yet. If you’re making the most of the final weeks of the season with some last-minute camping trips or visits from out-of-town guests, it might be worth picking up a foldable cot. It can add some handy seating and sleeping space to your home without breaking the bank, and it has a foldable design that allows for effortless storage. 

Walmart’s bestselling Pnkkodw Folding Cot Bed is a top-rated option to have on hand while hosting or planning some outdoor adventures, and it’s on sale for up to 52% off for a limited time. Right now, both the pink and green colors are available for just $53, down from $110, and you can also shop the gray, black, and blue styles for $69 to $90.  

Pnkkodw Folding Cot Bed, From $55 (was $110) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Featuring an extra-large 25-milimeter steel frame with 10 X-shaped legs, the versatile cot is sturdy, rust-resistant, and designed for long-lasting use. It measures 15 inches long, 28 inches wide, and 75 inches high, offering plenty of room to comfortably stretch out when unfolded. The two-sided 3.5-inch mattress cushion is soft, breathable, and made with cotton, allowing for optimal comfort while resting or sleeping. There’s also a built-in side pocket to keep books, phones, flashlights, and other small essentials within easy reach. 

Thanks to its conveniently collapsible design, the cot can be used in multiple ways to serve your specific needs. You can unfold it whenever you need an extra lounging spot, some additional seating, or a comfy place to lay in your backyard and stargaze. It can also work as an extra bed in a bedroom or living area. At 18.5 pounds, it’s easy to transport, folds flat in just seconds, and comes with its own carrying bag for hassle-free storage.  

Related: Walmart’s ‘Bright’ $35 Solar Light 6-Pack ‘Looks So Elegant’ in Yards and Gardens

The Pnkkodw folding cot has earned over 100 five-star ratings from Walmart shoppers, who called it “very sturdy” and “comfy.” Multiple people highlighted the painless assembly process, noting that it requires minimal effort to fold and unfold. “Perfect for adults or kids,” one reviewer wrote, adding, “It’s easy to fold and set up. I’ll never buy another air mattress.”

Shop More Deals

• Gvdv Folding XXL Camping Cot, $80 (was $140) at Walmart
• Ebello Convertible Sofa with Pull-Out Bed, $230 (was $400) at Walmart
• Bybyme Folding Sofa Bed, $89 (was $160) at Walmart

If you’re planning a camping trip or hosting guests this season, this foldable cot bed is a smart solution that can help you carve out some extra sleep space in your home without breaking the bank. Grab one for as low as $55 before this limited-time flash deal ends at Walmart. 

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

Emilie Kiser is addressing critics head-on amid continued scrutiny of her and her husband, Brady Kiser, over their approach to water safety.

Last month, the influencer and her husband faced backlash after their 17-month-old son, Teddy, was pictured without a life jacket while on a boat. The couple’s older son, Trigg, died last year after drowning in the family’s backyard pool in Arizona.

Emilie was not home at the time of Trigg’s drowning, and he was being cared for by Brady. The Maricopa County Attorney’s Office later declined to file charges against Brady.

In a TikTok posted on Friday, Aug. 14, Emilie took responsibility for the couple’s mistake and reaffirmed their commitment to water safety.

“I know that I have made mistakes, and I know that I am an imperfect human, and that sometimes I say or I do things that can be confusing,” Emilie began her video. “Over the course of the last year, our family has been no stranger to tragedy and how quickly life can change.”

She acknowledged that Trigg’s drowning was “preventable” and said she will “forever and always take accountability for the ways that we went wrong and the things that we didn’t do, and we have so much hindsight now of things that we wish we did differently.”

Emilie went on to explain that, although it was not an excuse, Teddy was without a life jacket for “moments” while on the boat because he was fussy and she and Brady were trying to calm him down.

“All I can say is that I’m sorry, and that I know we made a mistake, and that I will do nothing but my best to be the best parent I can be moving forward,” Emilie said. “And I know how much I love my children and care about them and their safety, and it is never something that is compromised for me by aesthetics or anything else, it was simply a mistake.”

“There is no reason a child should be out of a life jacket,” she added.

RELATED: Emilie Kiser Breaks Silence After Son Teddy Is Pictured Without a Life Jacket

The mom-of-two then explained that the recent incident reopened social media conversations surrounding Trigg’s death. She also addressed several misconceptions she has seen online, including claims that Teddy is not enrolled in Infant Swimming Resource (ISR) classes and that there is still no fence surrounding the family’s swimming pool. Emilie said both claims are untrue.

She then addressed what she described as the most concerning rumor about her family.

“Something I don’t even want to address because it is really hard for me to even fathom that people believe this,” Emilie said. “But I think it is important to hear from me because it also has to do with our pool and water safety, and our children, who I am very protective of. We have not, we will not, and we do not swim in our swimming pool where our child drowned.”

The internet personality said she’s “extremely angry,” “sad,” and “hurt” that people would even believe the claim, noting that it is difficult for the family to even step foot in their backyard, let alone enter the swimming pool. However, she acknowledged that sharing her life online comes with people criticizing her or spreading false information.

“It is impossible to prove to people who want to see nothing but the worst in you that you have good intentions or that you are telling the truth or that those things are not true, and there is too long of a list of things for me to even go down and start addressing those things,” Emilie said.

“And I just want to say to my audience, thank you. I love you guys. I am always grateful that this is my job. I will never take it for granted,” she continued. “I know how huge of a privilege it is to call this my job, and I am literally grateful for it every day.”

Emilie concluded, “Even though things might look differently, I might not always share the same things that I used to, or talk like I used to about things, or be as open. I really, once again, am always coming from a place of good intentions and just doing my best. And I hope that slowly, slowly but surely, I can get to a place of being able to be more open with you guys again.”

In July, Emilie announced that she and Brady are expecting their third child.

“We are so grateful and excited to share that we will be welcoming another baby into our family 🤍🪿. This news feels very surreal and has already been such a bright light to us during some of our darkest days,” Emilie wrote via Instagram on July 3.

“What a drag it is getting old,” Mick Jagger famously sang on the Rolling Stones’ classic 1966 track, “Mother’s Little Helper.” Ironically, Jagger was a mere lad of 22 when he wrote those iconic lyrics, but of course, he wasn’t singing about himself.

“Mother’s Little Helper” was written while the Stones were on tour in 1965, as were quite a few tunes, as Jagger explained: A whopping twelve songs in two weeks.

“You get back from a show, have something to eat, a few beers, and just go to your room and write,” Mick said, according to The Rolling Stones: The Biography by Bob Spitz. The Stones went on to record ten of those new songs in three days at RCA, including “Mother’s Little Helper” (which Jagger described as a “very strange record, like a music-hall number”).

The lyrics, as fans are well aware, are about what was perceived as a sort of epidemic in the ’60s: Miserable suburban housewives getting hooked on sedatives.

‘Kids are different today,’ I hear every mother say
Mother needs something today to calm her down
And though she’s not really ill, there’s a little yellow pill
She goes running for the shelter of her mother’s little helper
And it helps her on her way, gets her through her busy day

Though the BBC banned the song over drug references, “Mother’s Little Helper” was a hit anyway, peaking at #8 on the Billboard Hot 100. And as Jagger pointed out later, it was never meant to be taken all that seriously.

“It’s about drug dependence, but in a sort of like spoofy way,” he said, per Songfacts. “As a songwriter, I didn’t really think about addressing things like that. It was just everyday stuff that you I’d observe and write about. It’s what writing is for really. There is a sort of naivety, but there’s also a lot of humor in those songs. They’re a lot based on humor. It was almost like a different band, a different world, a different view when we wrote them.”

“I get inspiration from things that are happening around me — everyday life as I see it,” Jagger continued. “People say I’m always singing about pills and breakdowns, therefore I must be an addict — this is ridiculous. Some people are so narrow-minded they won’t admit to themselves that this really does happen to other people beside pop stars.”

Related: 1969 No. 1 Hit, Ranked Among ‘Greatest Songs of All Time,’ Was Saved by an Off-Beat Cowbell

According to Keith Richards, the “strange guitar sound” on “Mother’s Little Helper” is a 12-string with a slide on it.

“The track just needed something to make it twang,” Richards explained, adding, “Otherwise, the song was quite vaudeville in a way. I wanted to add some nice bite to it. And it was just one of those things where someone walked in and, Look, it’s an electric 12-string. It was some gashed-up job. No name on it. God knows where it came from. Or where it went. But I put it together with a bottleneck. Then we had a riff that tied the whole thing together. And I think we overdubbed onto that. Because I played an acoustic guitar as well.”

While the band managed to achieve the perfect sound in the studio, they apparently were never able to recreate that magic live.

“We’ve often tried to perform ‘Mother’s Little Helper’ and it’s never been any good, never gelled for some reason — it’s either me not playing it right or Keith not wanting to do it like that,” Charlie Watts said in the 2003 book According to the Rolling Stones.

“It’s never worked,” Watts added. “It’s just one of those songs. We used to try it live but it’s a bloody hard record to play.”

Despite the fact that “Mother’s Little Helper” was never a concert staple, it remains one of the Stones’ most beloved tracks. At the time of this writing, the song has over 45 million streams on Spotify alone.

Related: 1968 Banned Rock Classic, Ranked Among ‘Greatest Songs of All Time,’ Was Recorded With a Toy Drum Set

Disney fans who couldn’t make it to D23 2026 will soon have another chance to shop some of the event’s most coveted merchandise.

Beginning Monday, Aug. 17, at 8 a.m. PT, select products featured at this year’s D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event will be available at Disney Store online, while supplies last. The assortment includes merchandise from the D23 show floor, Disney Store booth and D23 Marketplace.

One of the biggest draws is Fanniversary Frenzy, a collection celebrating 10 beloved Disney stories reaching major milestones in 2026.

The anniversary lineup includes The Princess Diaries and Atlantis: The Lost Empire, both celebrating 25 years; The Hunchback of Notre Dame at 30; and Beauty and the Beast and Darkwing Duck, both marking 35 years.

Fans can also shop merchandise celebrating the 45th anniversary of The Fox and the Hound, the 50th anniversary of The Muppet Show, the 65th anniversary of 101 Dalmatians, the 75th anniversary of Alice in Wonderland and the 85th anniversary of Dumbo.

The collections span apparel, accessories, dolls, plush and collectibles, making the anniversary merchandise especially appealing to Disney fans looking to revisit some of the movies and shows they grew up with.

There are also several D23 exclusives and collectibles beyond the anniversary collections. Among them is a limited number of autographed copies of Joe Rohde’s Floating Mountains: The Art of Imagining the Impossible, as well as the Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey long-sleeve shirt inspired by Fantasia, in collaboration with Bobby Kim. The shirt will be available for one day only, while supplies last.

Other highlights include new Disney Store-exclusive “color-drenched” plush, collectible plush flowers from Blooms by Disney Store and a limited-time Disney x Formula 1 jacket collection featuring Mickey and Friends.

Shop exclusive merchandise from D23 2026 beginning Monday, Aug. 17, at 8 a.m. PT.

RELATED: Disney’s New Mickey Family Halloween Collection Is Made for Summerween

The sound of modern funk would be difficult to imagine without him.

Larry Graham, the bassist whose influential career has included Sly and the Family Stone, Graham Central Station and years of collaboration with Prince, turns 80 on Aug. 14.

Born in Beaumont, Texas, in 1946 and raised in Oakland, California, Graham began preparing for a life in music at an early age. He learned piano, drums and guitar before beginning his professional career as a child. By 15, he was performing with his mother in the Dell Graham Trio.

That group unexpectedly helped Graham develop the playing style that would change the bass guitar. After the trio’s organ broke and the group became a duo, he began striking the bass strings with his thumb to replace the bass drum and plucking them to imitate a snare. Graham calls the technique “thumpin’ and pluckin’,” though it became widely known as slap bass.

Graham brought that sound to Sly and the Family Stone, where his playing became an essential part of songs including “Dance to the Music,” “Everyday People” and “Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin).” The band’s combination of rock, soul and funk made it one of the most influential groups of its era.

After leaving the group in the early ’70s, Graham formed Graham Central Station. The band released its self-titled debut in 1974 and became known for songs including “Can You Handle It” and “Your Love.” Graham later found success as a solo singer with the ballad “One in a Million You,” which earned him a Grammy nomination for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance.

His work with Sly and the Family Stone was formally recognized in 1993 when the group entered the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Graham’s career took another turn through his close relationship with Prince. The two became friends and collaborators, with Graham playing bass during Prince’s concerts and touring alongside him in the late ’90s. Prince also encouraged Graham to revive Graham Central Station and co-produced the band’s 1998 album GCS 2000, released through NPG Records.

Prince’s respect for the bassist extended far beyond their work together. “Larry Graham is my teacher,” he said in a 1999 interview cited by Prince’s official discography.

At 80, Graham’s influence remains present across funk, rock, R&B and countless bass performances that followed his. His career connects two of music’s most innovative artists, but the technique and unmistakable sound he created belong entirely to him.

Related: Founding Member of Legendary ’60s Rock Band, Who Co-Wrote ‘American Woman,’ Turns 83

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A great summer dress should make getting dressed feel easy without sacrificing comfort or style. The Melrose and Market Square Neck Maxi Dress does just that with a breezy silhouette, breathable fabric, and stylish details that make it easy to wear for everything from casual daytime plans to slightly dressier occasions.

Right now, it’s on sale for 42% off at Nordstrom Rack, bringing the price down from $70 to just $40. For a 100% cotton dress with a versatile design and elevated look, that’s a pretty impressive deal.

Melrose and Market Square Neck Maxi Dress, $40 (was $70) at Nordstrom Rack 

Courtesy of Nordstrom Rack

Shop at Nordstrom Rack

Available in extra small through extra large, the dress fits true to size. Its length can fall somewhere between a midi and maxi depending on your height, while the empire waist and flattering square neckline create a feminine silhouette without feeling restrictive.

The 100% cotton fabric is another major plus. It’s naturally breathable, soft, and durable, making it especially comfortable during warm summer days. Cotton is also naturally temperature regulating, so the dress can work well as the weather starts to cool down in early fall. It’s machine washable for easy care — just be sure to line dry it afterwards.

There are three patterns, each with its own personality. The black and ivory option has an intricate paisley-inspired bandana print for an edgy, boho feel. The olive and ivory dress features an earthy backdrop with florals and leaf motifs for a relaxed, vintage-inspired look. Meanwhile, the crisp sky blue and off-white geometric pattern feels preppy, cheerful, and polished.

Related: Shoppers With Plantar Fasciitis and Hammer Toe Say These ‘Supportive’ $7 Slide Sandals Are ‘Easy to Wear’

The dress is also easy to style in different ways. For a casual daytime vibe, pair it with flat leather sandals or clean white sneakers, then add an oversized linen shirt or cropped denim jacket as a light layer. A tote bag or woven crossbody keeps the look casual and summery.

For dressier occasions, swap in strappy heels or platform espadrilles. You can add a cropped leather jacket for a little edge, especially with the black bandana print, or drape a tailored blazer over your shoulders. A structured leather shoulder bag or clutch can finish the look.

One reviewer called it a “great dress,” writing, “This dress is a perfect mix between casual and dressy. It is 100% cotton and has a nice lining.” Another described it as “comfortable,” “very flattering,” and “roomy,” adding that they “love the fit.”

Shop More Deals

• By Design Manila Soutache Maxi Dress, $50 (was $118) at Nordstrom Rack
• Abound Strappy Beaded Cover-Up Maxi Dress, $25 (was $79) at Nordstrom Rack
• Vince Camuto Floral Print Maxi Dress, $55 (was $158) at Nordstrom Rack

For a stylish, high-quality dress you’ll reach for throughout summer and into the next season, the Melrose and Market Square Neck Maxi Dress is a great pick. And with Nordstrom Rack’s current 42% discount, you can save $30 and snag this versatile style for just $40.

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

Emmylou Harris was still an aspiring folk singer when she discovered the Louvin Brothers, but their 1958 song “If I Could Only Win Your Love” would help change the course of her career. After recording her own version in 1975, Harris scored her first Top 10 country hit and began her rise to stardom.

Harris originally dreamed of becoming an actress after graduating as her high school’s valedictorian in 1965. She studied drama at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro on a scholarship before dropping out to focus on music.

Harris headed to New York City’s Greenwich Village, where she performed at venues like The Bitter End. She signed with Jubilee Records in 1969 and put out her debut album, Gliding Bird, in 1970. But when the label went bankrupt, her budding music career stalled.

After moving to Nashville with her first husband, Harris worked as a waitress while trying to support herself and her daughter. She returned to the Washington, D.C., area and continued performing at local clubs, though she wasn’t convinced music was still in her future. “At that point, I’d retired forever from the music business,” Harris later recalled. 

Things started to turn around in 1971 when Chris Hillman of the Flying Burrito Brothers helped get Harris on Gram Parsons’ radar. Parsons was looking for a harmony singer and eventually recruited Harris, bringing her into his musical circle and setting her career on a new path.

In 1972, Parsons brought Harris out to Los Angeles to work on music together. Before she went, he gave her a cassette of songs he wanted her to hear, including one from the Louvin Brothers.

As Harris recalled to The Guardian, “I had no idea who these people were; in fact I thought one of them was a girl! I went to Gram and he laughed and said: ‘That’s Charlie and Ira Louvin.'”

She was immediately drawn to the duo’s sound. “Well, I just could not get enough of that sound,” she continued. “I’d always loved the Everly Brothers, but there was something scary and washed in the blood about the sound of the Louvin Brothers … I became an instant fan.”

After getting hooked on their music, Harris came across “If I Could Only Win Your Love.” The duo recorded it in 1958, and she later included her own version on Pieces of the Sky in 1975. “In 1975 I recorded the Louvin Brothers’ ‘If I Could Only Win Your Love,’ which another friend turned me on to, and it became very successful for me,” she recalled. 

The song climbed to No. 4 on the Billboard country chart, earning Harris her first Top 10 country hit and helping establish her as a major new voice in country music. 

Harris later performed the song at a Country Music Association awards show with Charlie himself. “For me it was a no-brainer, and he aced it! I was so thrilled to sing with him,” she told The Guardian.

When Harris was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2008, she asked Charlie to do the honors. “When I was inducted … I asked Charlie to officially induct me, because really that song was what started it all for me as far as the mainstream was concerned,” she said. 

Related: 1966 Hit Song, Written by Neil Diamond, Turned a TV Band Into Pop Stars

Reigning Dancing With the Stars champion Witney Carson has some surprises in store for fans!

On Friday, Aug. 14, the pro dancer, who won season 34 of the ABC reality series with Robert Irwin, revealed on Instagram that she will appear on Good Morning America early Monday morning to share “three huge announcements.”

“I know that there are a lot of rumors out there,” Carson said, seemingly referencing her unexplained absence from DWTS Con in Palm Springs a few weeks ago after being advertised as one of the convention’s stars. “Everything will be cleared up on Monday.”

“I promise you guys, you are not ready for what I’m about to spill,” she added.

RELATED: Bobby Bones Gets His Mirrorball Trophy Back After ‘DWTS’ and Tom Bergeron Drama

Carson’s announcement comes shortly after DWTS insider Kristyn Burtt revealed that the series is expected to announce its first celebrity-pro pairing on Good Morning America on Monday, Aug. 17, though ABC has not yet confirmed the news.

Burtt did not reveal which celebrity and pro will make up the first pairing or whether Carson is involved. The partnership is likely to feature one of the four celebrities announced for the upcoming season so far: Summer House star Ciara Miller, Love Island alum Maura Higgins, Savannah Bananas player Jackson Olson and Jimmy Kimmel Live! sidekick Guillermo Rodriguez.

Burtt added that the reveal is likely being used to promote Dancing With the Stars: The Next Pro, the reality competition series tasked with finding the show’s next professional dancer. The Next Pro airs Mondays and is currently down to its final five contestants: Allen Genkin, Nina Mayster, Adele Zaikman, AJ Pritchard, and Selena Hamilton.

Carson is slated to appear on Monday’s episode of The Next Pro as a guest judge. The remaining dancers will be paired with social media influencers who have no dance experience to test their ability to teach an amateur ballroom dancing.

Burtt also noted that fans may soon see DWTS celebrities and pros wearing masks and disguises as they begin heading to rehearsals in Los Angeles in the coming weeks. Tents have also reportedly started going up outside rehearsal studios to help protect the cast members’ identities.

Dancing with the Stars airs returns on Tuesday, Sept. 15. on ABC and Disney+ and streams next day on Hulu. The full cast will be revealed on Good Morning America on Wednesday, Sept. 2.

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Now that I have a car and also live in a city that has good public transportation options, I don’t often reach for rideshare apps like I used to when I was in college or in my early 20s. Well, for those reasons, and the fact that it’s much more expensive nowadays than they were when I was coming home a wee bit tipsy from a night out at 22. But I have been going to more events this summer, and it’s especially convenient to reach for Uber or Lyft when I don’t want to worry about parking my car at the venue or being a designated driver. It’s also just useful to not have to walk to a bus or train and wait.

So, as you can see—and can probably personally attest to—there are still a multitude of reasons to choose personal taxis, or the like. But those surge prices during big nights or events feel criminal at times, which can really deter you from leaning on a rideshare app. 

To address those issues, Uber has come up with a solution that combines their convenient app and features with a fixed price to some of the biggest venues around: Uber Shuttle. It’s been around for a little bit, making waves more recently at the FIFA World Cup games in New York/New Jersey as one of the only affordable transportation options to and from MetLife Stadium. But it’s newer to Chicago, where I’m located, and popping up in cities that it wasn’t originally in.

I was able to try it out to give my honest review of Uber Shuttle after using it to get home from a WNBA All-Star game in Chicago in July. Read on to see what it was like and if it’s worth it to avoid surge pricing.

Related: I Finally Tried Out ‘The Comfy’ Hoodie From ‘Shark Tank’—Here’s My Honest Review

What Is Uber Shuttle and How Does It Work?

Courtesy Alani Vargas

While I’m old enough to remember the days when we would order shared Ubers and get in a random car with multiple strangers—so wild that this was even a thing; I only ever did this with friends, but still—an Uber Shuttle is a somewhat related concept but with a far safer experience. 

It’s similar in that you’re using the same Uber app and getting a reduced price because you’re choosing a more communal option. However, you’re in a nice bus with an Uber Shuttle, and there are fixed drop-off locations that aren’t your front door. While that might be less convenient than a regular Uber, it’s safer when others are on board. And it has its perks, as I’ll share below. 

As NBC Chicago reported back on March 5, 2025, Uber launched a $5 shuttle from the United Center in Chicago. And while Uber Shuttle isn’t available for Chicago’s airports, it is currently available as an airport transport at LaGuardia, Newark, JFK and Boston. In addition to the United Center (UC) in Chicago, it is available for events at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami and Globe Life Field in Dallas.

It is a permanent feature, “here to stay,” per a representative from Uber. And it’s marketed as an “affordable, convenient and easy way to get home from your favorite concerts, events and games all year round.”

“Uber Shuttle is similar to our airport Shuttles, but also offered at select venues across the country,” a press statement shared with Parade states. “You can book your seat up to 7 days and as little as 10 minutes in advance, ensuring you have a guaranteed spot and locked-in price when the crowds head out at the end of your event.” 

While it’s in a limited number of cities right now, Uber is “continuing to expand” to more venues in America, as well as specific events, as they did with the World Cup.

“The product is part of Uber’s broader effort to reduce transportation friction around some of the country’s most attended live events,” their statement says.

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Key Features & Logistics: What You Need To Know Before Booking

To take the Uber Shuttle home from our event at the United Center, it was a flat fee of $12.

Pickup/drop-off spots

While the Uber Shuttle site for Chicago has a long list of drop-off locations, it seems like the main operating stops after the United Center are the Ogilvie Transportation Center, River North (on State St. and Grand Ave.) and Mag Mile (on Chicago Ave., off Michigan Ave. going toward the lake). We took it from the arena, and it looks like that’s the main way to use the shuttle in Chicago at the moment.

Looking up your city’s Uber Shuttle options is key, as we can’t share every single stop available in each city. But there are several drop-off points from JFK Airport in New York City, according to their site.

Baggage policy

If you’re using it for the airport, you’re of course going to have luggage of some sort. So in terms of baggage, you’re allowed one piece of luggage weighing up to 45 lbs and one personal item that you can fit in your lap or under your seat. In order to bring more luggage aboard, you have to book additional seats.

Seating and vehicle types

As far as rules go, every rider over the age of 2 has to have their own ticket and seat; one rider under 2 per adult can ride for free. I’m sure there are some shuttles that are bigger than others, and the type of vehicle probably changes slightly per city, but from the UC, we were put in a large bus, almost like a mini motor coach.

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The Experience: Pros and Cons of Riding Uber Shuttle

Courtesy Alani Vargas

Pros: flat rates, schedule predictability and cleanliness

One of the most notable things about the Uber Shuttle, once you board, is just how nice the vehicle is. It’s an air-conditioned, modern bus with overhead compartments and plush seats with seatbelts and armrests. It’s also pretty big with a lot of spots. I don’t know why, but I had assumed they were going to be smaller, like sprinter vans (à la The Real Housewives), but no. You’re getting a bus with a motor coach sort of vibe, way nicer than a public transit bus (sorry, CTA).

Courtesy Alani Vargas

We were guided through the whole experience by people who work with Uber, so we didn’t have to navigate the schedule or find our shuttle on our own. However, it seems like the schedule is pretty predictable and there are a lot of buses leaving throughout the day (or at the end of an event). Plus, from the United Center, it’s easy to find the shuttles in the Uber Zone tent set up near the venue (though this is also where people catching regular Ubers are as well, so prepare for it to be packed).

The biggest pro to using Uber Shuttle is the flat rate you pay for your ticket. It’s the same price per person, and there is no surge pricing, which is helpful if you’re leaving a large event like the WNBA All-Star Game we were coming from or a concert. 

If you’ve ever left a major concert, you know that a ride can skyrocket to $80 or $100 for a ride that’s usually $25. So this is a nice option to leave from an event without having to take public transportation, pay for parking with your own car or pay for overly expensive Ubers.

Cons: No door-to-door service, limited drop-off points

Uber Shuttle in general is going to be less convenient than a regular rideshare option because you’re not getting door-to-door service. But in places like New York, there seem to be a lot of stops within Manhattan, which also brings you close to many public transportation options. However, that’s not the case in Chicago.

The biggest issue I had with Uber Shuttle is the fact that the drop-off points are so limited here, specifically. We had three options as stated before: Ogilvie Transportation Center, River North and Mag Mile. We live about 20 mins north of the last stop, so it’s not exactly convenient in that regard. So once we got off the shuttle, we still had to take another car home (there were no Ubers in the area, so we ordered a Lyft). But more on that in a minute.

While this didn’t happen to me, I was reading online that some people have had issues with potential cancellations or Uber Shuttles being too full and leaving people without a ride to the airport. Because of this, if you want to use this to get to the airport, I’d recommend giving yourself more than enough time in case you need to use a different form of transportation (and have a plan B). 

Related: I’ve Used 7 Prequel Skincare Products for 30 Days—Here’s What I’d Buy Again

How To Book an Uber Shuttle Step-by-Step

There are two ways to book an Uber Shuttle (both are in the Uber app). 

Per Uber’s website, you can go to the Home tab. Then:

1. Enter your destination in “Where To?”
2. Select the “Uber Shuttle” option.
3. Select your preferred pickup time and how many seats you need.
4. Review your ride and rate.
5. Tap “Confirm” to reserve your Uber Shuttle.

Uber/Courtesy Alani Vargas

Or you can go to the Services tab:

1. Select the Shuttle icon.
2. Enter your destination.
3. Select your preferred pickup time and how many seats you need.
4. Tap “Confirm to reserve” your Shuttle.

Uber/Courtesy Alani Vargas

After you make a reservation in the Uber app, you’ll get a ticket with a QR code and a unique PIN five minutes before your trip is scheduled to start. Once you board, the driver will scan your code. 

Similar to regular Ubers, you can track your shuttle and view your pickup location in the app five minutes before your trip is meant to start.

Uber/Courtesy Alani Vargas

Final Verdict: Is Uber’s New Shuttle Service Worth It?

Uber Shuttle is a cool idea, and with how nice and new the buses are and how convenient it can be, I think that it’s worth it if the drop-off locations and pickup stops are close to you.

For the airports in New York City, I can totally see this being an option I use in the future to get into Manhattan. We usually use taxi cabs if Uber or Lyft are too expensive, but even a taxi can cost a lot depending on where we’re going or what time of the day it is. I know the subway system well there, so I could definitely see this being a great option to plop me in Times Square, and then I can take it from there. If the shuttle is only $12 or so, that’s worth it in my book. 

I know, I know—taking public transportation from the airport in NYC is also an option. But it takes longer, so the Uber Shuttle is more convenient in that regard. I’m fortunate enough to be able to spend a bit extra to have a more pleasant ride into Manhattan, even if it’s not super close to my endpoint. 

And in terms of Chicago, even though the drop-off location wasn’t close to where we live, I will say that it can still be worth it to get home from the United Center in some cases. For one, if you’re someone who is staying near one of the three stops, it’s 100% a great option. So for tourists staying near those locations, or people who live near them, it’s an easy way to get out of the chaos of the UC.

Speaking of, I would even say that in certain situations, the Uber Shuttle might be an option I reach for again even though the drop-off was not close to home. Why? The Uber Shuttle got us out of the hectic area around the United Center pretty quickly. And as someone who paid for expensive event parking for two concerts at the UC in recent months, it is hell trying to get out of the parking lot and that area. The traffic is horrible, no one knows how to merge properly and the fastest way home is usually always blocked off, which means I have to take side streets a lot of the way home.

So while it took almost 50 minutes to drive home—when it usually takes 25-30—after a concert in my own car, it took about the same time to take the Uber Shuttle to the Water Tower Place, then get in a private ride home. So with one “transfer” and for a fraction of the price (event parking is usually around $60+), I got home around the same time with Uber Shuttle as I did with my own car. 

No transportation is perfect coming from the airport or a major event venue. But Uber Shuttle is another way to make it a little easier, and they aim to make it a lot cheaper for customers. While I only used it once, I definitely think it’s worth it in different situations.

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Shannon Miller, 49, has a powerful response for anyone claiming the Magnificent Seven gymnast is past her prime. The gymnast, who was part of the gold medal-winning U.S. women’s team at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, just shut down any question of whether she can still perform the moves that made her a gymnastics icon. Known for her precise, flawless, and razor-sharp handstands, particularly on the balance beam, Miller was just 19 years old at the Atlanta Games. Thirty years later, her handstands are still just as precise as they were in 1996.

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Miller shared a social media video Friday captioned, “‘Past your prime’ is a perspective. For me, getting older has never meant becoming less. It has meant becoming stronger in ways that have nothing to do with medals, scores, or the date. Mentally stronger. More resilient. More grateful. And still showing up. Your prime is where you believe it is!”

In the video, Miller executes a handstand with perfectly flat hands, one of the defining characteristics of a champion-level handstand. Miller looks as exuberant and fit as ever as she spins on her hands while executing a seemingly effortless handstand.

Fans quickly rushed to the comment section, celebrating Miller’s ageless athleticism.

“Yea Shannon, you’ve still got it. I remember rooting for you during the Olympics and you are still amazing,” one fan commented.

“Those hands are still so crazy,” shared another.

Echoing the sentiments of many, another shared, “Omg yaaaaaaaassss! I didn’t expect this. Give us more. Wow!”

Shannon Miller’s Magnificent Seven Legacy

An Olympic gold medalist, TV personality, and speaker, Shannon Miller has remained in the public eye since she officially retired from gymnastics in 2001. Her performance as part of the Magnificent Seven is likely the accomplishment with which she’s most associated.

Not only does Miller’s gold medal, along with the entire Magnificent Seven’s first-ever women’s team gold medal for the United States, represent one of the most important sports moments in modern U.S. history, but the team’s victory also captured a moment in time filled with hope, unity, and enthusiasm.

Much was put on the shoulders of the seven young athletes who comprised the U.S. women’s Olympic gymnastics team in 1996. They not only rose to the occasion, they defined the era. Their Olympic journey was watched by millions and has been celebrated for the 30 years since.

Related: The Magnificent Seven, Who Captured America’s Hearts in 1996, Reunite 30 Years Later—and They’re All Grown Up

30 Years Later, Shannon Miller Is Still Inspiring Fans @gymnasticlover286

Shannon Miller (USA) Balance Beam EF 1996 Olympics #shannonmiller #usa #balancebeam #gymnastics #gymnast #olympics #1996olympics #athlete #foryoupage #foruyou #fyp

♬ original sound – Gymnastic faves💕 – Gymnastic faves💕

Miller’s inspirational words and accompanying video don’t just prove she’s still got it; they show an entire generation that they do, too.

No matter what their version of excellence is, Miller is demonstrating to those who watched her grow up that they, too, can still achieve greatness.

Most fans will never be able to execute a perfectly precise handstand like Shannon Miller, but they can take her words to heart and realize there’s no such thing as being “past your prime.”

Shannon Miller certainly isn’t.

Related: 15-Year-Old Gymnast Lavi Crain Took a Frightening Fall, but Her Response Revealed the Heart of a Champion

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Many versions of the country classic song “Help Me Make It Through the Night” exist, but none have been more commercially successful than Sammi Smith’s. 

Written by Kris Kristofferson, who included the sultry song on his 1970 self-titled album, Kristofferson, “Help Me Make It Through the Night” captures the loneliness of someone who is yearning for someone to comfort them for the night. The narrator doesn’t expect a relationship from the intimate encounter with the other person, but rather begs to indulge in the moment as it offers a temporary escape from life’s troubles. 

RELATED: 1968 No. 1 Hit Ranked Among the ‘Greatest Songs of All Time’ Was Written in 20 Minutes

According to American Songwriter, Kristofferson became inspired to write the track after hearing a quote from Frank Sinatra. At the time, the outlet reported that Sinatra answered an interview question with Esquire after he was asked what he believed in, and gave the reply: “Booze, broads, or a bible…whatever helps me make it through the night.”

When Kristofferson penned the tune, he happened to be living with fellow country artist Dottie West and her husband, Bill. Naturally, he offered the song to West, but she was reluctant to record the ballad because she felt it was “too suggestive.” 

West’s loss ultimately became Smith’s gain, and West even admitted that turning down “Help Me Make It Through the Night” was one of the biggest regrets of her career, though she ended up recording the song after other artists put their spin on it. 

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Smith’s version, which she released at age 27, triumphed in terms of whose cover fared the best. Hers reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and also crossed over into pop, becoming a Top 10 hit when it peaked at No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100. Smith’s version also scored a Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance and, in 1998, was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. Additionally, the song itself was ranked at No. 71 on Rolling Stone’s list of “200 Greatest Country Songs of All Time.” 

Aside from Smith, other notable covers of “Help Me Make It Through the Night” include renditions from Willie Nelson, Loretta Lynn, Jerry Lee Lewis, Olivia Newton-John, Joe Simon, Percy Sledge, Ray Price, Bobby Bare, Gladys Knight & the Pips, John Holt, Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Michael Buble and more.

Related: 1969 Hit, Reimagined by Reba McEntire Decades Later, Ranked Among ‘Greatest Country Songs of All Time’

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You don’t necessarily need a plane ticket (or even a weekend away) to feel like you’re sleeping in a little bit of luxury. The right duvet set can give your bed the same inviting look you expect to find at a charming bed-and-breakfast, where everything feels crisp, just a little more luxurious than your average Tuesday night. Climbing into bed feels less like the end of the day and more like checking into your favorite little getaway.

That’s the fun of a duvet set with this kind of classic, B&B-inspired feel. It refreshes the room without requiring a new bed, rug or nightstands, and it gives you the feeling of a staycation without having to pack a suitcase. Add a few plump pillows, a cozy throw and maybe a book you’ve been meaning to read, and you’ve got yourself a pretty convincing vacation suite. The best part is you get to sleep there every night. No checkout time, no tiny hotel shampoo bottles and absolutely no need to make small talk with the other guests over breakfast.

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Stoffer Home Charming Floral Reversible Duvet Cover Set, $164–$299 at The Company Store

The Company Store

Shop It!

The Company Store is selling this sweet Stoffer Home Charming Floral Reversible Duvet Cover Set that feels both elegant and cozy. It’s made from 100 percent combed cotton percale with a 200-thread count, then garment-washed to give it this wonderfully soft, lived-in feel from the start.

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Little details make it even more practical. A button closure keeps the duvet carefully tucked inside, while four interior corner ties attach to loops on compatible comforters to help keep everything from bunching up overnight. And when you feel like changing things up, flip it over to reveal a coordinating floral print for a completely different look.

The set comes in twin/twin XL, full/queen and king/California king, with prices ranging from $164 for the smallest size up to $299 for the largest. Each duvet comes with matching duvet shams (note that if you buy the twin size, you’ll only get one sham, making it a two-piece set), but additional shams are available to purchase individually. In fact, the Company Store even has coordinating wallpaper and a shower curtain if you want to go all in on this particular floral pattern and color scheme.

Related: Kohl’s Sweet Scallop-Edged Comfort Mat From Reese Witherspoon’s Line Will Brighten Up Your Kitchen

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Lighting can completely change how cozy a room looks, and lately, vintage-inspired fixtures and warmer lighting have been showing up everywhere. If you want to add some of that nostalgic charm to your home without hunting through an antique store, Walmart has the Oneach 2-Piece Retro Farmhouse Table Lamp Set on sale for just $44, down from $90. 

The set includes two gorgeous lamps, each measuring 20.25 inches tall with a 4.5-inch-wide base, and the drum shade is 9 inches across the top, 10 inches across the bottom, and 8.5 inches high. They feature beige resin bases with an antique white finish and linen fabric shades, plus a traditional turned shape that gives them their retro farmhouse look. The bulbs are not included.

Oneach 2-Piece Retro Farmhouse Table Lamp Set, $44 (was $90) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Since the lamps come in a natural hue, they can work in plenty of different spaces. You could place them on nightstands for a more cohesive bedroom setup, or split them up throughout your home. One could go on a living room end table, while the other could go on a console or desk.

One reviewer appreciated the “beautiful” neutral color, writing, “The color goes with everything,” while another called the lamps “perfect.” A third shopper described them as “cute” and said they offer “great lighting.”

Related: Walmart’s ‘Chic’ Arched Floor Lamp Has the Dreamiest Scalloped Raffia Shade, and It’s Over 50% Off

If you’ve been looking for an easy way to add farmhouse-style decor and lighting to your home, this 51% off deal is worth jumping on. At $44 for the pair, you’re paying $22 per lamp and saving $46 off the original $90 price, making it an affordable way to refresh two spots in your home with just one purchase.

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For a matching pair that adds both light and character to a room, the Oneach 2-Piece Retro Farmhouse Table Lamp Set is hard to beat at this price, and its vintage-inspired look makes it easy to use now and keep for seasons to come. Be sure to snag the set at Walmart while it’s still in stock and marked down this low.

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13 years (yes, really) before she was celebrating her own wedding, music icon Taylor Swift had a cameo on the Zooey Deschanel-led show New Girl in a crucial wedding-focused episode. Specifically, Swift played the titular character Elaine in the episode “Elaine’s Big Day,” which sees Cece nearly marrying Shivrang, despite the fact that she and Schmidt are clearly meant to be together.

Thankfully, Elaine comes to the rescue, as she and Shivrang admit their feelings for one another, making it possible for Cece and Schmidt to finally be together. In a way, Swift’s role on New Girl is actually, therefore, a pivotal part of Cece and Schmidt’s love story, and now, Schmidt actor Max Greenfield has revealed what Swift was really like on set all those years ago.

As shared in a post on Netflix’s official X account, Greenfield explained, “I remember she was on set, and we were hanging out. And she was so kind. She was, like, a better actor than all of us. And I remember asking her, I said, ‘Can I ask you a question?’ And she was like, ‘Yeah, sure.’ And I go, ‘If you could play, like, to an intimate audience or a big arena, what do you prefer?’ And she goes, without missing a beat, she goes, ‘If you could fill the ocean with people, I’d like to play for that.'”

In the same interview, Greenfield highlighted that, at that time (2013), Swift wasn’t quite the mega star that she is today, which only makes this all the more notable. Back then, that may have seemed like a cool thing to say—and it’s clear that Greenfield felt that it was—but few could have imagined that just a decade later, she would be selling out arenas all over the world on her record-breaking Eras Tour, which will undoubtedly go down as one of the highlights of her career.

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If you love the dark academia look — with its stacks of books, vintage-inspired accents, and moody lighting — this raven lamp at Amazon can instantly give a room a haunting, melancholic feel that’s perfect for a quiet night in.

Right now, the Shandaglo Raven Lamp is currently on sale at Amazon for $23, down from $32. This novelty lamp features a black resin raven with an LED bulb in its beak. Shoppers love that it’s more than just a light, calling the design “super cool” and the lamp “well-made.” 

Shandaglo Raven Lamp, $23 (was $32) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

At 12.2 inches tall and 7.1 inches wide, it’s an easy way to add a gothic touch into any space. Although the raven feels like a natural fit for Halloween, you don’t have to put it away once October ends. Its literature-inspired design works just as well on a bookshelf, nightstand, or desk year-round, and it could make a fun gift for anyone who loves birds, spooky season, or unique home accents. 

It has a 66.9 inch-long cord (that’s nearly 6 feet long) so you have plenty of room to position the lamp where you want it without having to keep it directly beside an outlet. 

Reviewers are particularly impressed by how the lamp looks when it’s lit. One shopper said it was a “fun” piece for anyone who likes “quirky or gothic decor.” Another reviewer said it looked “really cool” on their bedside table and gave off a “nice, moody vibe.” 

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At just $23, the Shandaglo Raven Lamp is an easy way to add a moody accent to your home this fall. Head to Amazon to grab one for yourself or as a unique housewarming gift for a friend  while it’s still in stock and on sale!

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Just hours after Luigi Mangione pleaded guilty in federal court, his supporters were still opening their wallets.

According to TMZ, Mangione’s legal defense fundraiser on GiveSendGo increased by roughly $1,000 within hours of Friday’s hearing, pushing the total raised to more than $1.56 million since the campaign launched in December 2024.

The new donations came despite Mangione admitting guilt to interstate stalking resulting in death and stalking through the use of interstate facilities resulting in death in connection with the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson.

Supporters also continued leaving messages of encouragement on the fundraiser page after the plea.

Photo by Jeff Swensen/Getty Images

Jeff Swensen/Getty Images

“He did what he had to do today, what he thought was best for him. We’re still here with you, Luigi,” one donor wrote.

Another supporter added, “You’ll see the outside world again one day, I know you will. I’ll keep writing to you.”

Following Friday’s hearing, Mangione’s attorney, Karen Friedman Agnifilo, told reporters that her client had struggled with years of debilitating pain after suffering a broken back and believed the health care and insurance systems had failed him.

Photo by Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images

Federal sentencing guidelines generally call for a prison sentence of 24 to 30 years or more, according to TMZ’s report. The outlet also reported that the judge said Mangione would be required to serve at least 85% of any sentence imposed.

Meanwhile, Mangione’s legal team has also filed a motion seeking to dismiss the separate state murder case, arguing that it violates protections against double jeopardy because of the federal proceedings.

In 1985, Paul McCartney watched one of the most valuable song catalogs in music history go to someone he knew very well.

On Aug. 14, 1985, Michael Jackson purchased ATV Music’s publishing catalog for $47.5 million, gaining control of approximately 250 songs written by McCartney and John Lennon for The Beatles.

Jackson wasn’t just another superstar with money to invest. He and McCartney had become friends and collaborators, recording several songs together, including the massive No. 1 hit “Say Say Say.”

And in an extraordinary twist, it was McCartney himself who helped teach Jackson just how valuable music publishing could be.

McCartney and Jackson’s musical partnership began before Jackson released his blockbuster 1982 album Thriller.

The pair recorded “Say Say Say” in 1981 during sessions for McCartney’s Tug of War. They also recorded “The Man,” with both tracks ultimately appearing on McCartney’s 1983 album Pipes of Peace. Meanwhile, the two also teamed up for “The Girl Is Mine,” released as the first single from Thriller.

“The Girl Is Mine” reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, but “Say Say Say” was even bigger.

Released in October 1983, “Say Say Say” spent six weeks at No. 1 on the Hot 100. More than four decades later, it remains McCartney’s most recent No. 1 on the chart, either as a solo artist or as a member of a group.

Behind the scenes, McCartney and Jackson had also developed a friendship. And according to accounts of their time together, one particular conversation would have enormous consequences.

According to Randy Taraborrelli’s 1992 book “Michael Jackson: The Magic and the Madness,” while Jackson was staying with Paul and Linda McCartney during their recording sessions, McCartney reportedly showed the younger singer a booklet containing songs for which he owned the publishing rights.

McCartney explained that owning publishing meant getting paid when those songs were recorded, played on the radio or performed.

The conversation made an impression. McCartney’s advice reportedly influenced Jackson’s decision to pursue music publishing himself.

Just a few years later, that lesson would come back around in a way McCartney probably hadn’t envisioned.

ATV Music was put up for sale in 1985. Its approximately 4,000-song catalog included roughly 250 Lennon-McCartney compositions, along with songs by other major artists. Jackson ultimately purchased the catalog for $47.5 million.

But the story of how someone else could buy publishing rights to McCartney’s own Beatles songs stretched back much further.

According to Billboard, in 1963, Northern Songs was established to publish music written by members of The Beatles. Lennon and McCartney initially each held a 20 percent stake in the company. When Northern Songs became a public company in 1965, their stakes were reduced to 15 percent apiece.

In 1969, publisher Dick James sold his stake in Northern Songs to ATV Music. Lennon and McCartney tried unsuccessfully to counter the deal before eventually selling their remaining shares in the company.

That left them without an ownership stake in the publishing company controlling their Beatles catalog, although they retained their respective songwriting shares.

So when Jackson made his $47.5 million purchase in 1985, he wasn’t buying the songs directly from McCartney. He was buying ATV and the publishing rights it had acquired years earlier.

The deal nevertheless put the publishing of many of McCartney’s most famous compositions under the control of his former duet partner.

A decade after the purchase, Jackson sold half of ATV to Sony for approximately $100 million. The 1995 deal created Sony/ATV Music Publishing, which Jackson and Sony each owned equally.

Following Jackson’s death in 2009, his share was controlled by his estate. Sony eventually agreed to purchase the estate’s 50 percent stake for $750 million in 2016, giving Sony full ownership of Sony/ATV and its enormous catalog.

McCartney pursued another route to regain rights to songs he had written.

In 2017, he sued Sony/ATV over his effort to reclaim U.S. copyrights to Beatles songs he co-wrote with Lennon under provisions of the U.S. Copyright Act. McCartney and Sony reached a confidential settlement later that year, leaving the details of their agreement undisclosed.

Forty-one years after Jackson’s $47.5 million purchase, the deal remains an extraordinary chapter in Beatles history, made even more remarkable by the fact that McCartney and the man who swooped in on the catalog had been friends, collaborators and No. 1 duet partners just a few years earlier.

Related: ‘One of the Most Important Partnerships in the History of Modern Music’ Began 69 Years Ago Today

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Throughout my career as a writer, I’ve had the opportunity to put plenty of shoes to the test to judge whether they live up to their price tag. Trying before buying is always helpful because let’s be honest, shoes can get pricey, and they can make a huge difference in how you feel.

In my 30s, I’ve been blessed to avoid any significant foot issues, so testing shoes has always been a breeze. However, I’ve watched my mom struggle to find shoes that fit her wide feet over the years. Now, at 67, my mom has added a few other challenges into the mix, including knee pain and hip pain. In other words, finding shoes that fit all her needs has become increasingly difficult.

I know my mom isn’t the only one who’s had a hard time finding wide shoes that are actually wide enough, so I asked if she’d be willing to put a few to the test and offer her honest opinions on how well they fit and how they made her feet feel. I also asked her to consider how the shoes helped her manage her other preexisting conditions to give a well-rounded view of how each shoe can address a wide range of issues.

Which shoes made the final cut? Find out the seven best shoes for wide feet for women over 60—and two to skip.

Related: I’m 5’3″ and Tried on 12 Dresses for Short Women—Here Are the 8 I’m Obsessed With and 4 To Skip

Why Mature Feet Need More Than Just ‘Wide’ Sizes: Our Testing Criteria

As a society, we give a lot of attention to the changes our bodies go through during menopause, but you don’t hear much about the way our feet change over time.

“As we age, the ligaments and tendons that support the foot naturally lose some elasticity,” Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, DPM, a partner at US Foot & Ankle Specialists, says. “For many people, that means the arch lowers slightly and the foot becomes a bit longer and wider. It doesn’t mean everyone’s arches ‘collapse,’ but it’s very common for shoe size to change over time.”

The natural cushioning on the bottom of your foot also thins over time, making hard surfaces feel less forgiving.

“Skin becomes thinner and drier, muscle strength declines and arthritis can change the shape of the foot,” she explains. “Conditions like bunions and hammertoes may become more pronounced, which can make once-comfortable shoes feel tight.”

Going into this experiment, my mom had some specific criteria to determine whether the shoes she tested were right for her. First and foremost, they had to have a wide toe box to accommodate her wide feet.

Second, they had to have a solid sole and ample cushioning to help her manage her knee and hip pain. Preferably, the shoes would be easy to slip into, but she cared more about fit than the convenience of a slip-on shoe.

Related: ‘I Tried on 12 Baggy Jeans To Find the Best Styles—Here Are 9 I Loved and 3 To Skip’

Top Wide Shoes for Women Over 60

• Best Overall: Brooks Ghost Max 4
• Best for Arch Support: Kuru ATOM 2
• Best Sole: Saucony Echelon
• Best Mix of Fashion and Function: Vionic Uptown Sneaker
• Best Wide Toe Box: New Balance Ellipse
• Best Budget-Friendly Option: Easy Spirit Romy Walking Shoe
• Best Slip-On: Orthofeet Kita Hands-Free

The 7 Best Shoe Brands for Wide Feet Over 60 That My Mom Loved

Here are her favorites that she tested:

Best Overall: Brooks Ghost Max 4 in a Size 10 Wide, $165

Courtesy Chrissy Callahan

Shop it at Brooks

What the brand says: “For a comfortable, protective ride, the women’s Ghost  Max  4 delivers high‑stack cushioning that helps lessen impact, while its rocker shape supports smooth heel‑to‑toe transitions and its broad base adds stability on the run,” the product description reads.

Brooks describes the Ghost Max 4 as best for daily runs, long runs, walking and orthotics. It offers max support with “assisted transition from landing to toe-off and added cushion underfoot.”

Available Sizes: Sizes 5 – 13 in medium, wide and extra wide
Available Colors: 9

My mom’s experience: Finding a pair of shoes that requires no break-in period is rare, so my mom appreciated how comfortable these shoes felt instantly. The Ghost Max 4 offers plenty of toe room and a sole my mom described as “supportive, yet flexible.”

When you’re navigating hip and knee pain, shoe cushioning becomes extra important. Luckily, this shoe provided just the right amount of cushioning to keep my mom’s feet comfortable and help her feel balanced while walking.

My mom is quite picky when it comes to the aesthetics of her shoes, and she doesn’t like anything flashy. While wearing these shoes, she told me she loved how they offer extra width without appearing to be wide or oversized.

Lastly, my mom appreciated that the shoes were easy to put on, even if they weren’t hands-free.

Best for Arch Support: Kuru ATOM 2 in a Size 10 Wide, $169

Courtesy Chrissy Callahan

Shop it at Kuru

What the brand says: “Let your muscles feel the burn—not your feet. Flat, flimsy footwear simply doesn’t cut it when your goals are on the line. From your first rep to your final cool down—or from the mall to the kitchen—ATOM 2 helps ensure foot pain is never the reason you slow down,” the product description reads.

Kuru describes the ATOM 2 as best for workouts, walking and everyday life. Compared to the brand’s first version of the shoe, ATOM, this style has an “upgraded fit, springier cushion, and improved heel support.”

Available Sizes: Sizes 5 – 12 in medium, wide and extra wide
Available Colors: 2

My mom’s experience: From the wide toe box to the solid sole, my mom was thoroughly impressed with the Kuru ATOM 2. The shoe offered plenty of cushioning and helped ease her knee and hip pain as she was walking.

My mom was impressed with the heel and arch support and said her feet felt cradled in comfort rather than feeling cramped, like she’s felt with some shoes she’s worn. Additionally, mom liked that she could instantly wear the shoes without adding extra insoles since they already provided enough support.

Similar to the Brooks shoes, these were easy to step into, even if they’re not hands-free, and they’re sleek without sacrificing width. The shoe is also available in extra wide, but my mom was comfortable enough in the wide size.

Best Sole: Saucony Echelon in a Size 10 Wide, $155

Chrissy Callahan

Shop it at Saucony

What the brand says: “With its broad, stable base and straight shape, it delivers a perfect balance of cushioning and an accommodating fit, making it the ideal choice for everyday comfort during both long runs and casual walks,” the product description reads.

Saucony describes the Echelon as best for runners and walkers. The brand says the shoe features a “broad base of PWRRUN cushioning, paired with a soft and bouncy PU sockliner” to provide comfort. Meanwhile, the full XT-900 carbon rubber coverage “offers durability and reliable protection, keeping you steady on any terrain.”

Available Sizes: Sizes 5 – 12 in regular, wide and extra wide
Available Colors: 2

My mom’s experience: When my mom stepped into the Echelon, she was pleased with the wide toe box, which offered plenty of space for her toes. But it was the shoe’s sole that won her over the most.

As she walked around in the shoes, my mom said they have a “rocking effect” that helps reduce foot strain. She found the shoes easy to walk in, and didn’t notice any knee or hip pain while wearing them.

Structurally, the shoes are expertly crafted. From an aesthetic point of view, my mom found the toe box to be a bit bulky-looking for her taste at first. But once she started putting them to the test, it didn’t bother her.

Related: I Traveled for a Year in One Suitcase—Thanks to These Ultra-Comfy Sneakers

Best Mix of Fashion and Function: Vionic Uptown Sneaker in a Size 10 Wide, $150

Chrissy Callahan

Shop it at Vionic

What the brand says: “The Uptown Sneaker delivers soft heel cushioning, ideal flexibility and arch support for comfort that lasts all day. Built-in VIO MOTION Technology footbed featuring contoured arch support, with shock-absorbing cushioning, deep heel cup to provide stability and forefoot flexibility,” the product description reads.

The brand says the shoe is best for “everyday exploring” and “combines casual style with all-day support.”

Available Sizes: Sizes 5 – 13 in medium and wide
Available Colors: 10

My mom’s experience: Finding wide shoes that don’t look like clown shoes isn’t always easy, so my mom was particularly impressed with this stylish pair that combines fashion and function. I also found myself coveting them since they’re the perfect pair of travel shoes when you don’t want to look like a tourist.

Functionally speaking, my mom loved the stable sole, arch support and heel stability. Per the brand, the shoe’s midsole encourages a “smooth, natural stride” plus “balanced support” thanks to the heel-to-toe drop. My mom appreciated both of these features and didn’t notice any knee or hip pain while walking in the shoes.

Best Wide Toe Box: New Balance Ellipse in a Size 10 Wide, $144.99

Chrissy Callahan

Shop it at New Balance

What the brand says: “Whether you’re setting a 5 AM alarm, putting in lunchtime road work, or heading out after dark, everyday miles are a labor of love. The all-new Ellipse matches this enthusiasm. The Ellipse combines the unparalleled comfort of Fresh Foam X cushioning with a bouncy underfoot feeling, designed to make your daily run the most enjoyable part of your day, every day,” the product description reads.

Other notable features include a rubber outsole, reflective details and a midsole that “provides more cushioning without increasing overall weight.”

Available Sizes: Sizes 5 – 13 in narrow, standard, wide and extra wide
Available Colors: 10

My mom’s experience: The fact that New Balance offers these shoes in four widths was encouraging from the get-go. My mom opted for the Ellipse in a Size 10 Wide, and she was quite impressed with the wide toe box, telling me it offered her “plenty of toe room.” At the same time, it provided enough support so that her feet didn’t feel like they were floating around loosely in the toe box.

My mom gave the sleek shoe design her seal of approval and said she enjoyed feeling no pressure on her knees as she was walking around in the sturdy shoes. The shoes are also easy to put on.

One thing to note: The shape of the sole at the back of the heel is a little awkward, since it slants up. My mom said it takes a bit of time to adjust to and noted that the shoe probably wouldn’t be great for someone with vertigo. Otherwise, it was an excellent choice.

Best Budget-Friendly Option: Easy Spirit Romy Walking Shoe in a Size 10 Wide, $69.99 (originally $85)

Chrissy Callahan

Shop it at Easy Spirit

What the brand says: “Designed with a true athletic walking shoe silhouette, it features a lace-up closure that secures your fit and a lightweight construction built to keep you moving through every errand, appointment, and daily mile. The smooth rounded toe and visible sole cushioning promise easy, energized steps from morning to evening. Ultra-light cushioning absorbs impact with every stride, while a removable sock liner lets you slip in your own orthotics when needed,” the product description reads.

Easy Spirit says the shoe provides “structured arch support” to keep your foot “aligned and comfortable.”

Available Sizes: Sizes 5 – 12 in medium and wide
Available Colors: 34

My mom’s experience: My mom has been a fan of Easy Spirit for years and counts it among her go-to brands that offer wide widths. She loved how much support the solid sole offered and said the shoes are easy to walk in, with no noticeable knee or hip pain. As an added bonus, she enjoyed the pink and nude suede design.

Up to this point, my mom had always been sufficiently satisfied with the brand’s wide sizes. However, compared to some of the other shoes she tested, she decided she might be even more comfortable in an extra wide from Easy Spirit. The wide size did fit and had adequate toe space, but she could’ve used a sliver more room. Luckily, she can size up next time.

Best Slip-On: Orthofeet Kita Hands-Free in a Size 10 Extra Wide, $129

Chrissy Callahan

Shop it at Orthofeet

What the brand says: “Kita is ideal for busy mornings, quick errands and active days when you want to slip on your shoes and go. The hands-free design lets you avoid bending or re-tying laces, while the stretchable fabric keeps your feet comfortable no matter where the day takes you,” the product description reads.

The brand says Kita is designed for anyone who wants “effortless, reliable support with a sporty look.”

Available Sizes: Sizes 5 – 12 in medium, wide, extra wide and extra extra wide
Available Colors: 13

My mom’s experience: Similar to the Brooks shoes, my mom enjoyed that the Orthofeet Kita required no break-in time. She loved the stylish design of the shoe and also appreciated that it was a slip-on style, which made it easier for her to get in and out of the shoe without any effort. She described the wide toe box as “excellent” and said it had plenty of room.

As with any slip-on style, the fit isn’t as snug as with other shoes. So if you’re looking for a snug fit with no hint of looseness, a slip-on isn’t right for you. To this end, my mom would’ve preferred something a bit tighter so she would feel more supported, but she was overall impressed with the width, so the shoe made the final cut.

The shoes were quite comfortable, but my mom did have one big piece of criticism: the sole wasn’t as solid or supportive as some of the other shoes she tested, even after adding the additional insoles the shoe came with. Still, it’s a nice shoe she can wear around the house, so if you’re looking for something wide with a bit less support, it’s a solid option.

Related: I Tested 13 White Sundresses for Summer—and Was Surprised by How Many Passed the Sheerness Test

The Brands To Skip: 2 Popular Shoes That Failed the Test 1. Kizik Lima 2 in a Size 10 Extra Wide, $119.95

Kizik

What the brand says: “HandsFree Labs technology delivers an effortless step-in experience. An improved, breathable stretch knit upper keeps you cool all-day long. Added underfoot cushioning in the midsole and increased rubber coverage on the outsole enhance durability and support where it matters most,” the product description reads.

Available Sizes: Sizes 6 – 12 in standard, wide and extra wide
Available Colors: 6

My mom’s experience: When it comes to toe room, the Kizik Lima 2 has plenty of space, and the shoes left my mom’s feet feeling very happy in that respect. The slip-on nature of the shoe was also a major plus, especially since she has knee and hip pain and sometimes has trouble bending.

The Kizik Lima 2 is a great shoe with a nice sole, but it wasn’t quite sturdy enough to provide my mom the support she needs. Due to the slip-on nature, the shoe felt a bit loose and more like a slipper. It’d be a great shoe for my mom to wear around the house so she’s not walking around with bare feet, but when it came to walking far distances, it wasn’t ideal.

However, if you simply have wide feet without other preexisting conditions, it’s a great shoe. It just wasn’t right for my mom.

2. Reebok Princess Wide Shoes in a Size 10, $49.99 (originally $60)

Chrissy Callahan

What the brand says: “Classic women’s shoe with a soft, smooth upper. Heritage cushion. A sleek upper,” the product description reads.

The brand says the shoe is designed for “athleisure” and “casual wear.” It features a die-cut EVA midsole that “cushions and absorbs shock” and a “high abrasion rubber outsole” that “adds durable responsiveness.”

Available Sizes: Sizes 5 – 12
Available Colors: 2

My mom’s experience: Reebok is a well-established brand my family has worn on multiple occasions over the years. However, this pair of shoes didn’t meet the bar for its “wide” classification.

My mom had trouble fitting into the shoes, and her toes felt cramped in the toe box.

When it came to support, my mom also said the sole was too flat and rigid. Overall, she found the shoes to be awkward to walk in with little arch support, and her knee pain was more noticeable while wearing them. On a positive note, she did find them to be sleek.

The Winners vs. The Skips

Shoe Model

Mom’s Verdict

Best Feature (or Biggest Flaw)

Superlative

Brooks Ghost Max 4

Winner

Supportive, flexible sole

Best Overall

Kuru ATOM 2

Winner

Arch support

Best for Arch Support

Saucony Echelon

Winner

Sole

Best Sole

Vionic Uptown Sneaker

Winner

Arch support

Best Mix of Fashion and Function

New Balance Ellipse

Winner

Wide toe box

Best Wide Toe Box

Easy Spirit Romy Walking Shoe

Winner

Sole

Best Budget-Friendly Option

Orthofeet Kita Hands-Free

Winner

Wide toe box

Best Slip-On

Kizik Lima 2 in Size 10 Wide Extra Wide

Skip

Loose fit

X

Reebok Princess Wide Shoes

Skip

Cramped toe box

X

What Podiatrists Say About Finding the Right Fit

Dr. Kayna Patel, a podiatrist with Weil Foot & Ankle Institute, says you don’t have to go it alone while searching for the right fit.

“It’s best to have your feet measured when shopping for a shoe and comparing widths across different brands. Some brands tend to run narrower than others,” she states.

Dr. Parthasarathy recommends looking for round or square toe boxes for more room.

“Widths vary across different brands. It is important to try the shoe on even if you measure a certain width,” she shares. “You should be able to wiggle your toes comfortably, especially in an athletic shoe.”

She adds that you should have one thumb’s width from your longest toe to the end of your shoe if the fit is right.

“Just like they tell you with clothing, don’t get hung up on the number. Focus on the fit,” she notes.

While chatting with the pros, we asked them about the best shoes for wide feet for older women, and they said the following brands are some of the podiatrist-recommended options: Altra, Topo, New Balance, Brooks, Vionic and Hoka.

How To Tell if You Actually Need a Wide-Width Shoe

Not sure whether or not you should size up to a wide-width shoe? There are a few telltale signs.

“If your toes feel cramped, the sides of your feet spill over the shoe, you have recurring blisters or calluses, or you feel immediate relief when you take your shoes off—those are all signs your shoes may be too narrow,” Dr. Parthasarathy says.

Dr. Patel says skin irritation and/or “pain to the big toe or the pinky toe after wearing shoes for a prolonged period of time” are also signs.

Dr. Parthasarathy also notes that many people mistakenly “size up in length” when what they really need is “more width.”

Up Next:

Related: I Tried 9 Lightweight Cardigans From Popular Brands and They’re Perfect for Summer Layering

Sources:

• Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, DPM, is a podiatrist and partner at US Foot & Ankle Specialists, as well as the President of the Maryland Podiatric Medical Association and the chair of the APMA Development Committee.
• Dr. Kayna Patel, DPM, is a podiatrist with Weil Foot & Ankle Institute.