Parade

The clownish little yellow, banana-loving, babbling nubbins—which first appeared in the animated Despicable Me in 2010—go Hollywood in this wildly creative, fantastically whimsical, gonzo alternative history of the silver screen.

According to a modern-day movie-museum tour guide (voiced by Allison Janney) in the opening scene, there was no greater creative force in Tinseltown than the Minions. And this is a museum that has George Lucas, the creator of Star Wars, as one of its displays!

Related: What George Lucas Misfire Led to his Movie Breakthrough?

For movie lovers, it’s all chock-full of cinematic Easter eggs, beginning when we see the opening logos “rewinding” through the years to Universal Studio’s fledgling days. It’s followed by a montage of the Minions incorporated into of some of the earliest silent “moving pictures,” including the Lumière brothers’ groundbreaking short from the late 1800s of a train pulling into a station.

We learn how the Minions—after eons of serving “evil” overlords, including a cyclops, pirates and a mummy—stumbled into Hollywood stardom by scene-stealing a Western and upstaging cowboys, a runaway train, Keystone-ish cops and a biplane. Soon they’re all the rage, and two Minions, James and Henry, become movie moguls.

Were there famous movie monsters?

Then they hit upon the idea of movie monsters, a parallel to Hollywood’s real-life era churning out tales of Frankenstein, the Wolf Man, Dracula, the Invisible Man and other creatures.

But the Minions’ monsters—a trio of ghoulish goofballs summoned from a book of sorcery swiped from one of their previous gigs—don’t want to be in the movies. They want to create havoc, destroy things and gobble people. Uh-oh! Can the Minions return the creatures to the book of spells before it's too late?

Related: This '80s flop became one of the greatest monster movies of all time

Pierre Coffin—who also co-directed three of the four of the Despicable Me flicks and does all the Minions’ gobbly-gook voices—fills the screen with detail. Minions & Monsters is a rare film made to appeal to kids as well as their parents, and especially to moms and dad who grew up watching movies. It’s a cinematic treasure trove, with blink-and-you’ll-miss-‘em nods to dozens of movie pioneers and Hollywood touchstones.

What movies are referenced in the new Minions movie?

There’s Charlie Chaplin…Buster Keaton…Citizen Kane… a Three Stooges’ eye poke… Bogie and Bacall… a gelatinous monster that obviously related to The Blob… a scene that recalls 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea… another with a wink to the pew-pew of Star Wars lasers. It’s a loving crash course in movie history disguised as a kid-friendly rumpus.

Listen for some familiar voices. Jeff Bridges is both Frank and Elwood, a pair of oversized movie-studio fat cats. Jesse Eisenburg is a dorky space-alien robot who lives in a shabby apartment, dreaming of taking over the world. (The robot’s name is Dort, a spin on Gort from The Day the Earth Stood Still in 1951.) Zoey Deutsch provides the sweet voice of Debbie, a suffragette who takes a shine to Dort and corrals the Minions into a Hollywood march for women’s rights. Trey Parker, the creator of South Park and Broadway’s The Book of Morman, obviously has fun as Goomi, a green mush-mouthed mini version of horror icon H.P. Lovecraft’s Cthulhu, a legendary ancient cosmic creature. Christoph Waltz is a studio director who accidently "discovers" the Minions.

In a meta twist, the Minions become so successful, they launch a film franchise and a merchandising line of goggles and little blue overalls. In real life, the Minions and Despicable Me franchise is one of the highest-grossing film properties in history, an international hit with its own universe of clothing, figurines and other do-dads. That’s no Hollywood fantasy!

This is the first movie in the franchise to not feature Steve Carell, who provided the voice of Gru, the wannabe criminal mastermind central to the stories. But even Gru gets his due in the closing credits.

And whatever you do, don’t strain your brain trying to decipher the Minion’s babble of gibberish, a comical stream of nonsense with smatters of English, Spanish, Italian, French, Japanese and other dialects. I’m sure I heard the words “miso soup” in there once.

The Minions and their infantile banter remind us of childhood innocence and gleeful play. Add funny monsters and Hollywood to the mix and you’ve got a recipe for a movie about movies, with Minions in the middle, muddling and making another madcap mess before saving the world—and reminding us that hey, it’s only a movie. But it’s their movie! Hooray for Hollywood!

FINAL THOUGHTS: Kids will lap it up, and grownups who grew up glued to movies will find a lot to love.

Rating: PG

When: In theaters Wednesday, July 1.

Streaming: Expected to arrive on streaming services in 45 to 60 days.

Next, best movies of all time.

When you think of fast-food fried chicken chains, what restaurants pop into your mind first? Maybe it’s KFC, or you prefer the spicy flavor at Popeyes. It could even be Church’s Texas Chicken, but if you were to ask culinary experts which is the best one in the country, you could be surprised to hear that Filipino chain Jollibee has twice been named the best fast-food fried chicken in America by USA Today. 

Related: Raising Cane’s Opens New Airport Restaurant Complete With 24-Hour Service

Now, the beloved cult favorite is shaking things up once again with the launch of a first-of-its-kind dish at its restaurants in the United States: chicken nuggets. Available starting July 2 at all Jollibee locations nationwide, the nuggets “are designed to satisfy the ultimate chicken cravings,” says the brand. Made with 100% all-white meat chicken breast, the nuggets will be served in their own mini buckets and available in 5-piece, 8-piece, 15-piece, and 30-piece options.

Fans can explore exciting flavor combinations with Jollibee's new chicken nuggets by pairing them with the brand’s iconic gravy or one of five other dipping sauces for even more flavor with every bite.

Jollibee

Related: Panda Express Debuts New Dish Fans Say Is a 10/10

If you’re a Jollibee aficionado, you already know all about the chain’s iconic gravy, which would be great for dipping the nuggets into, but customers will also have the option of five additional dipping sauces to choose from. 

View this post on Instagram

Jollibee took to Instagram to share the news, sharing a video with the caption, “POV: you just discovered the biggest drop of the year, and it’s available tomorrow,” before asking fans, “who’s gonna be first in line to try our new Chicken Nuggets?” 

“No way nuggets?!? I will be first in line,” said one commenter, as others wrote, “Bout time,” and “Sounds like I know what my birthday treat is gonna be!” 

Related: Beloved Breakfast Chain’s Limited-Time Menu Has Fans Begging for ‘All of the Above’

“We are incredibly excited to bring our signature crispy, juicy chicken expertise to our new Chicken Nuggets,” said Luis Velasco, SVP and Marketing Head, Jollibee Group, North America, in a statement. “At Jollibee, we are always looking for ways to bring more joy to our guests’ tables, and this all-new Chicken Nugget launch is the perfect example of how we continue to innovate and elevate fast-food favorites. The crave-worthy quality and high standards that made us the ‘best fried chicken’ in America can now be found in our new nuggets, and we can’t wait for everyone to try them!”

Next: Coca-Cola’s New One-Of-A-Kind Flavor Is Super Exclusive–Here’s How To Get It

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

For the longest time, rolling utility carts gave off serious library and elementary-school-classroom energy. Those beige metal carts piled with books or art supplies that squeaked down the hallway—iconic in a kind of dusty way. They were practical, sure, but nobody would have called them stylish. Then IKEA got its hands on the concept and completely changed the vibe. Now utility carts come in cheerful colors that you actually want to display instead of hide away. They're pretty much a VIP in craft rooms, kids' bedrooms, homework stations and every little corner that needs a bit more organization without taking up much space.

The classic rectangular cart has earned its status for good reason, but apparently IKEA decided it was time to shake things up. For 2026, the retailer introduced a whole new shape, and I'm completely here for it. It's proof that even the most practical household staple can get a fresh update.

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬

IKEA PS 2026 Utility Cart - Blue, $79.99 at IKEA

IKEA

Shop It!

Available in the prettiest blue or a nostalgic beige (that one is guaranteed to unlock a few school-day memories), the new IKEA round utility cart puts a fresh spin on a familiar favorite. It stands 35 inches tall with an 18 ⅞-inch diameter, so it's compact enough to tuck into tight corners but still sturdy enough to hold up to 44 pounds of art supplies, books, plants, snacks or whatever else tends to migrate around your house.

Related: Kohl's Chic Modern Coffee Table Has the Most Incredible Space-Saving Secret

That circular shape isn't just for looks. Without long rectangular sides jutting into walkways, it's easier to wheel through narrow spaces and around furniture, making it a smart pick for apartments, craft nooks or cozy home offices. The round shelves also make it easy to grab what you need from any angle, so you won't find yourself awkwardly reaching into a corner to retrieve that one roll of tape or bottle of paint. It's the same hardworking utility cart you know, just with softer lines and a surprisingly stylish update.

IKEA shoppers seem to largely agree that the blue colorway is "dreamy"—I mean, as dreamy as you can make a functional utility cart.

"This utility cart was purchased for a friend," says a customer in their review. "The color is fabulous, the castors roll smoothly, and it is very heavy & stable. So many uses!"

Others really want more color options, but for now, IKEA is still with the blue and beige. Fingers crossed for another drop in the not-so-distant future.

Related: Target's 3-Piece Stackable Patio Set Is a Colorful Mood Booster for Your Backyard

Buc-ee's has become much more than a roadside gas station. With 15 new locations planned through 2031, the beloved travel stop continues to attract devoted fans who will gladly take a detour.

But with hundreds of menu items to choose from, one question comes up again and again: What's actually worth ordering?

Some recent Reddit threads put that debate to the test, with Buc-ee's regulars sharing the foods they never leave without. Hopefully this roundup will give you a little inspo the next time you stop by the Disney of gas stations.

Beaver Nuggets still reign supreme

If there was one clear winner, it was Beaver Nuggets. The corn puff snack was mentioned again and again, with several shoppers recommending trying multiple flavors.

“Beaver nuggets, I suggest getting the cinnamon ones too,” one Redditor shared, while another wrote, “Gotta have beaver nuggets.”

The nuggets come in a variety of flavors too: Original (which features a sweet and buttery caramel flavor), Sea-Salted Caramel, Cinnamon Sweet, White Cheddar, White Cheddar Habanero, Bold n’ Sorta Spicy, Chocolate Covered, and the occasional seasonal drop.

The brisket sandwich is a must

No Buc-ee's conversation is complete without talking about the brisket sandwiches. Several Redditors called the sliced or chopped brisket sandwich a must-order, while others recommended the brisket taco instead. One shopper even described the brisket sandwich as "a right of passage."

And if it’s any consolation, some devoted visitors at the newly opened Goodyear, Arizona, Buc-ee’s waited over an hour in line at 4 a.m. for the beloved sandwich. One Redditor called the scene “absolute pandemonium” as a line of cars backed up for a half mile out of the parking lot.

The Club Melt has a loyal following

Another menu item that inspired plenty of praise was Buc-ee's Club Melt. The hot sandwich features sliced ham or turkey, bacon, and cheese on a soft brioche bun.

One fan called it "fire," adding, "Idk wtf is in that spicy cheese sauce but omg."

The Texas cheesesteak Burrito is worth trying

While Buc-ee's brisket gets plenty of attention, several shoppers argued the Texas Cheesesteak Burrito is the menu item that deserves more love.

One Redditor said they “tried one of these a few weeks ago and have been thinking about it ever since.”

Another revealed that it’s even good cold, writing, “it was brought to me for lunch at work so it wasn’t hot and it was still tremendous.”

Don't sleep on the Overbite

Not every Buc-ee's favorite comes from the hot food counter. One sweet treat that shoppers couldn't stop talking about was their chocolate Overbite, a half pound hockey puck-shaped candy bar that will have you grabbing more than one.

"My favorite is the dark chocolate overbite," one visitor wrote. "Its what Reese wants to be when it grows up."

Another shared, “PB Overbites are next level delish.”

The Overbite is available in five flavors: Milk Chocolate Truffle, Milk Chocolate Caramel, Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter, Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter, and Dark Chocolate Cookies & Cream.

It's not just about the food

While the menu gets most of the attention, plenty of Buc-ee's fans said part of the fun is wandering the aisles and leaving with something you never planned to buy.

One shopper called the classic gray Buc-ee's hoodie "the comfiest sweatshirt I own," while others joked the correct answer to what you should buy is simply "Everything!" From quirky beaver-themed souvenirs to oversized drink tumblers, many visitors say half the experience is discovering what catches your eye.

And stop by the bathrooms while you're there. The travel stop claims they have the "cleanest restrooms in America."

😋😋SIGN UP to get delicious recipes, handy kitchen hacks & more in our daily Pop Kitchen newsletter🍳🍔

Related: Buc-ee's Announces 15 New Store Locations: Is One Opening Near You?

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

You can hydrate and keep fans running day and night, but there's a tipping point where the temperatures are so sweltering that you need consistent cooling power to beat the heat indoors — and we've just about reached it. Ahead of the record-breaking heat wave forecast for most of the nation this weekend, Walmart has a budget-friendly way to keep cool that you're going to want to check out. 

Normally $279, the bestselling Frigidaire Window Air Conditioner is marked down to just $195 with a limited-time flash deal. With over 1,800 perfect five-star reviews backing this model, many shoppers were impressed by how fast this compact window unit cooled down their space. This 600 BTU unit is the perfect size to keep your bedroom, living room, office, or kitchen at a comfortable temperature as the heat dome arrives and summer marches on.

Frigidaire Window Air Conditioner, From $195 (was $279) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Equipped with three fan speeds, six-way directional airflow, and a programmable sleep timer, this remote-controlled window air conditioner is fully equipped to help you stay cool in the heat. It measures 16 inches wide, 13.25 inches deep, and just over 12 inches high, and comes with an installation kit to fit windows between 23 and 36 inches wide and at least 13 inches high. This AC unit also includes a convenient washable filter so you won't need to buy replacement filters.

Reviewers spoke to the quality and longevity of the Frigidaire brand, with several customers noting that they've purchased multiple units. One person shared that they purchased this model as a replacement for an older version. "I had my last Frigidaire air conditioner for almost 15 years," they said, adding, "I have nothing but good things to say about this air conditioner." 

Shoppers raved that this window unit is "a compact workhorse" that's "easy to install" and "cools very quickly" without making much noise. It also earned praise for its energy efficiency and quiet operation (at full speed, the sound it generates measures just above a whisper), which helped people save money and sleep comfortably in the heat. 

"Even though August was a hot month, our electric bill went down due to this appliance," one customer said, adding that "it cools the room quickly and makes sleep much more comfortable on hot days."

If you need to cool more than a single room, two larger models of this window air conditioner are also on sale at Walmart. The 1,000 BTU unit is currently $309, down from $420, while the largest 1,200 BTU option is priced at $390, down from $479.

Shop More Deals

• Midea Window Air Conditioner, $156 (was $174) at Walmart
• Windmill Window Air Conditioner, $299 (was $329) at Walmart
• Philo Deco Easy Cool Window Air Conditioner, $153 (was $180) at Walmart

Related: Walmart's 'Very Cold' 3-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner Triples as a Fan and Dehumidifier for Just $180

With the Frigidaire Window Air Conditioner, you can enjoy an icy cold breeze inside as the temperatures continue to climb. Over 100 Walmart shoppers currently have it in their carts, so if you want to snag this cool deal, you'll want to act fast!

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.

Eric Christian Olsen, who starred as Marty Deeks on NCIS: Los Angeles for 14 seasons, is officially returning to the NCIS franchise. But not how you might think. This time, he will be working behind the scenes rather than playing his fan-favorite character on-screen.

According to Deadline, Olsen has signed on to serve as an executive producer for the upcoming third season of CBS’ NCIS: Origins under his banner Cloud Nine Productions.

Since NCIS: Los Angeles wrapped its 14-season run on May 21, 2023, Olsen has been working as an executive producer on the CBS series Matlock, putting his acting career on hold.

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬 

Back in July 2024 during a chat with Parade for the Matlock premiere, Olsen told us, “I’ve had so many experiences working for CBS for 13 years and I did think that this was an incredible opportunity and platform to find stories that I was really passionate about and then help build them from the ground up.

“I think the ability to pivot and help tell stories that I’m proud of from a producing standpoint and solving complex problems with communication and grace and empathy, what a wonderful opportunity I was given from our studio partners and the network, so I had to help produce it.”

In joining, NCIS: Origins as an EP, Olsen will continue to be able to tell the stories he's proud of producing.

Related:Mark Harmon Is Making a Full-Time Return to the NCIS Universe For an Entire Season

NCIS: Origins follows a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs (Austin Stowell) in the early ‘90s, years prior to the events of NCIS. The series is narrated by Mark Harmon, who it was just announced will be joining the prequel for its third season. He will appear in all episodes as part of a present-day mystery tied to his ‘90s Camp Pendleton days in an action-packed story that unfolds all season long.

With his return to the NCIS universe, one can also hope that Olsen will make a guest appearance on the new NCIS: New York spinoff that will star LL COOL J reprising his role as Sam Hanna. It would be great to see the two former NCIS: Los Angles castmates reunited.

NCIS: Origins will return for its 10-episode third season this fall on CBS in a new timeslot: Tuesday nights at 10 p.m. ET/PT.

NCIS: Origins Season 3 Is Happening — With a Major Shake-Up Behind the Scenes

Frankie Muniz just took to Twitter/X to announce his divorce, but the Malcolm in the Middle alum did it in an unusual way.

The actor and NASCAR racer, 40, who rose to stardom as a child actor on the hit FOX series alongside Bryan Cranston and Jane Kaczmarek, recently returned to TV for Malcolm in the Middle: Life's Unfair, an update on the classic series. However, the star has made it clear that his real passion lies in NASCAR, and he's largely stepped away from entertainment.

On Wednesday, Muniz took to social media to announce that he and his wife, Paige Price, would be splitting up. The duo, who married in 2019, made the announcement with a twist, however. Despite declaring they would be ending their marriage, they shared the news with a video that featured Frankie dancing joyfully alongside Paige and their son.

"Who says you can't stay best friends with your baby momma?" said text written on the video of the trio dancing in their home. The video was later deleted and replaced with a photo of Muniz and Price at a NASCAR event with their son.

In the caption, Muniz elaborated on the split.

"Life update! Following a period of separation that we kept private, Paige and I have decided to move forward with ending our marriage. After 10 beautiful years together, we’ve grown in ways that made us realize our relationship feels most natural and strong as a deep friendship and as co-parents. We share an incredible son who remains the center of our world, and we’re both happier, stronger parents because of the love and growth we’ve shared," Muniz wrote.

🚨 Life update! 🚨 Following a period of separation that we kept private, Paige and I have decided to move forward with ending our marriage.

After 10 beautiful years together, we’ve grown in ways that made us realize our relationship feels most natural and strong as a deep… pic.twitter.com/CUDcglonmL

— Frankie Muniz (@frankiemuniz) July 1, 2026

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox

Muniz Praised His Soon-To-Be Ex-Wife

ANGELA WEISS / Getty Images

Muniz continued by saying he is "endlessly grateful to Paige for everything she’s done for me and our family. She put her own dreams on hold so I could chase mine, and she was always my biggest supporter. That foundation of respect and friendship isn’t going anywhere."

He added that they would continue working together on Muniz Racing, as well as co-parenting.

"We’re closing one chapter with gratitude and opening the next with bright futures ahead, for us as individuals and especially for our son. Thank you for the love and support. We both choose to not entertain any questions on this matter. Please respect our families privacy during this time," he concluded.

What Drew Frankie Muniz to the Racing World?

While Muniz participated in his first stunt car races in 2004, he didn’t entirely commit himself to NASCAR racing until after the birth of his son in 2021. During an episode of the Drive podcast with Ford CEO Jim Farley, Muniz explained that just hours after his son Mauz was born, he started to seriously consider pursuing racing.

“I literally was holding him, my son, in the hospital bed, and I remember thinking, ‘Who is he going to grow up thinking that I am?'” Muniz shared on the podcast, Entertainment Weekly reported. “Sure, I could say, ‘Here’s what Daddy used to do, Daddy used to be an actor, Daddy used to do that.’ But I wanted him to see me working really hard for something, striving for something, and all the ups and downs that come with it. And I really felt like I had unfinished business in the racing world.”

By 2023, Muniz announced he was “finally making my dream a reality” and becoming a NASCAR racer.

Finally making my dream a reality, this one is for my son and showing him that you can always chase your dreams.

Excited for this opportunity with Rette Jones Racing, Ford, and our partners to go full time racing for an ARCA National Series Championship in 2023. pic.twitter.com/OhbFnlMNKW

— Frankie Muniz (@frankiemuniz) January 11, 2023

Related: Frankie Muniz Shares That He Was Injured in a Freak Backyard Accident

When it comes to classic gym exercises, planks have long been a staple for their many benefits. This low-impact isometric exercise requires no equipment, builds total-body strength, stabilizes the core and strengthens the lower back. What more could a fitness enthusiast ask for? Well, we’re here to share an exercise that’s even better if your main goal is to address a weak lower back.

So roll out your mat, because it’s time to do Pilates. Pilates is an extraordinary training modality for sculpting lean muscle, increasing flexibility and improving posture. It’s also an excellent choice for supporting a healthy, strong lower back—and the reason is simple. Pilates strengthens the muscles deep inside the core, including the transversus abdominis (TVA), which is often referred to as the body’s internal “corset.” When the TVA is properly activated during a Pilates session, you can stabilize the spine and hips while decreasing stress on the lower back. This teaches the body to move much more efficiently.

“What I love about the Pilates approach is that we're usually looking at why the lower back is working so hard in the first place. Is the core not providing enough support? Are the hips doing their job? Are we breathing efficiently? Instead of focusing on one muscle, we're looking at how the entire system works together to support the spine,” explains Hannah Lawrence, instructor and studio manager at Sundrop Pilates in Denver, CO.

We spoke with Pilates instructors who recommend one move that actually addresses a weak lower back. Keep in mind that if you have pain or discomfort in this area, it’s always wise to speak with your instructor before getting started.

🩺SIGN UP for Parade’s health newsletter with expert-approved tips, healthy eats, exercises, news & more to help you stay healthy & feel your best self💊

Where Do Planks Fall Short?

Now, we’re not saying to quit planks altogether. But if your goal is to actually fix a weak lower back, planks are lacking in this category.

“Many people view planks as the gold standard for core and back strength because they challenge the abdominals and require full-body tension. While planks are an effective exercise, they can become a test of endurance rather than a tool for improving movement quality. A person can hold a plank for several minutes and still struggle to stabilize their spine during everyday activities such as walking, lifting, reaching or changing direction,” says Nikkii Behrens, Pilates teacher, trainer and founder of Rare Pilates.

Related: The Equipment-Free Move a Pilates Instructor Is Begging Every Woman Over 50 To Do in the Morning

How Pilates Approaches Lower Back Health Differently

Pilates supports lower-back health differently than many classic strength-training workouts or rehab programs because it emphasizes movement quality over load. According to Behrens, instead of simply strengthening individual muscles, Pilates enhances how the body functions “as a whole.”

She explains, “We look at breathing patterns, pelvic alignment, spinal mobility, core coordination and movement mechanics. The goal isn’t just a stronger back, it’s a body that moves more efficiently and supports the spine naturally throughout everyday life.”

The most common culprits behind a weak lower back include poor posture, sedentary habits, lack of deep core engagement, loss of spinal awareness and reduced glute strength. You may be surprised to learn that the issue usually isn’t that the back itself is weak, but rather the muscles that support the spine aren’t effectively communicating with one another, Behrens points out.

Related:  The Exact 15-Minute Pilates Routine Instructors Recommend for Beginners

The Best Pilates Move for a Stronger Lower Back, Instructors Say

Instructors agree that the bird dog can help fix a weak lower back. This exercise teaches the body how to offer proper spinal support during movement.

“The bird dog is one of the most effective exercises for lower-back health because it teaches stability before strength. In Pilates, we focus on creating a strong foundation through core control and coordinated movement patterns. The bird-dog trains the deep abdominal muscles, glutes and spinal stabilizers to work together while keeping the spine neutral,” explains Jennifer Villamil, founder & CEO of REFORM STUDIOS in Chicago, IL, who works with clients of all levels of fitness, from beginners to athletes.

This exercise may look simple, but it can be quite challenging. According to Lawrence, bird dogs are most effective when performed slowly and with control.

Related: So Long, Squats and Lunges—This Is the Pilates Exercise Instructors Use To Build Functional Strength in the Entire Body

How to do a bird dog

1. Start with your hands and knees on the mat—wrists below your shoulders and knees under your hips.
2. Gently activate your deep abdominal muscles and find a neutral spine.
3. Slowly extend one leg behind you and the opposite arm ahead of you.
4. Once fully extended, hold for two to three seconds without letting your pelvis rotate or your lower back arch.
5. Use control to return to the start position.
6. Repeat on the other side and continue to alternate.

“The goal is not how high you lift the arm and leg, but how still and stable you can keep the rest of the body,” Behrens tells Parade.

Related: Want Strong, Sculpted Abs? Start With These 5 Pilates Mat Moves, Instructors Say

How often to do a bird dog

If you’re a beginner, Lawrence usually recommends performing 1 to 2 sets of 6 to 8 reps on each side a few times per week. Your goal shouldn’t be to complete a lot of reps, but rather to move well and maintain stability throughout the movement.

“As strength and control improve, you can increase the hold time, slow the movement down even more or add a small stability challenge like a Pilates ball. The key is making sure the spine and pelvis stay steady before progressing,” Lawrence says.

You’ll know you’re getting stronger when the exercise feels less wobbly. Outside of the Pilates studio, clients typically tell Lawrence that their back is less tired by the end of the day and they feel more stable completing everyday tasks and activities. 

So, have we convinced you yet? Add bird dogs to your routine ASAP.

Up Next:

Sources:

• Selkow, N. M., Eck, M. R., & Rivas, S. (2017). Transversus abdominis activation and timing improves following core stability training: A randomized trial. International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, 12(7), 1048–1056.
• Hannah Lawrence, instructor and studio manager at Sundrop Pilates in Denver, CO
• Nikkii Behrens, Pilates teacher, trainer and founder of Rare Pilates
• Jennifer Villamil, founder & CEO of REFORM STUDIOS in Chicago, IL

Taylor Frankie Paul is focusing on her mental health.

A new report from People revealed that The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives star recently decided to check herself into a rehab facility. In a statement shared with the outlet, a source close to the reality star shared that the decision was made "voluntarily" by Paul and "on the advice of her mental health team." While the name and the location of the facility were not revealed, the source noted that the facility in question specializes in providing mental health treatment, as well as care for other issues, including addiction and trauma.

And though Paul has since exited the facility and is back home, the source noted that the mother of three is very much "committed to working on herself and focusing on her family and being a good mom." She also has support from those around her, with the source adding: "The people around Taylor want her to get help [and] see her get better."

TMZ was first to break the news of the 32-year-old's rehab stint, which the outlet reports was only a week long. Paul's rehab stay also reportedly served as a point of contention for her ex, Dakota Mortensen, with whom she shares her 2-year-old son, Ever, who claimed it violated their dual protective orders, after Paul allegedly had a third party reach out to a third party to set up visitation with their son in an attempt to make up for a visit she missed while in rehab.

While there are no active cases against Paul or Mortensen, according to the outlet, the Bluffdale Police in Utah were contacted by the 33-year-old real estate agent about a possible protective order violation. Police were also in contact with Paul to determine if a violation occurred.

The SLOMW star, who also shares daughter Indy, 8, and son Ocean, 6, with ex-husband Tate Paul, alluded to the incident in a June 29 Instagram Stories post shared by TMZ, where she wrote: "Cops called on me again THIS WEEK… what are the odds?"

"And it's not people… it's ONE person the same person," the reality star continued, without naming names. "It's obsessive."

Paul and Mortensen's contentious, on-again, off-again relationship took a turn when unseen video footage of Paul's 2023 domestic violence arrest was leaked in March, just as her season of The Bachelorette was due to air. The video saw Paul yelling and throwing chairs at Mortensen while a child was nearby. The incident led ABC to pull her season, and forced Hulu to press Paul on the filming of SLOMW.

Both Paul and Mortensen have been in and out of court since, with both parties alleging abuse over the course of their three-year on-again, off-again romance. The pair is also battling for custody of their son, with Mortensen granted temporary custody earlier this year, allowing Paul supervised visits.

A judge on June 1, however, removed the mandatory supervision, issuing Paul custody of Ever on the same midweek day each week without overnights as well as alternating weekends. The judge said that Mortensen will remain the "custodial parent" on holidays.

The pair is due back in court next week.

McDonald's is on its way to being known for more than burgers and fries. A rumored drink menu that reportedly surfaced during a recent franchisee convention in Las Vegas has fans wondering whether the fast-food giant is preparing to seriously level up its beverage game.

While nothing has been officially confirmed by McDonald's, the alleged lineup has already sparked plenty of excitement online—and it looks much more like something you'd expect to order at a Starbucks or a trendy dirty soda chain than at the Golden Arches.

😋😋 SIGN UP to get delicious recipes, handy kitchen hacks & more in our daily Pop Kitchen newsletter 🍳🍔

The rumored menu—posted by the popular food trends Instagram account @markie_devo—includes an eclectic mix of flavored and elevated sodas, refreshers, coffee drinks and tea-based beverages, including:

• McDonaldland Cookie Diet Coke
• Iced Berry Ube Vanilla Matcha
• Shark Bait with Sprite
• Paradise Refresher
• Sunburst Refresher with Lemonade
• Swicy Peach with Sprite Zero
• Horchata Dr Pepper
• McDonaldland Cookie Cold Brew
• Strawberry Lychee Refresher with Lemonade

Leaked McDonald's Drink Menu Sparks Buzz as Fans Say, It's 'Giving Starbucks' View this post on Instagram

Several of the drinks appear to be inspired by beverages already sold at McDonald's locations around the world rather than in the U.S. International McDonald's restaurants are known for offering unique drinks and desserts tailored to local tastes, from specialty iced coffees and fruit teas to colorful refreshers that American customers rarely get the chance to try.

If these drinks do make their way stateside, they would represent one of the biggest beverage expansions McDonald's has attempted in years. The collection also reflects one of the fastest-growing trends in fast food — customizable, flavor-packed beverages.

Dirty sodas — soft drinks mixed with flavored syrups, cream or fruit flavors — have exploded in popularity thanks to social media and chains dedicated almost entirely to the concept. At the same time, Starbucks-style refreshers, matcha drinks and cold brews continue to attract younger customers looking for something beyond a traditional fountain soda.

That makes the rumored menu feel surprisingly on trend. Drinks like Horchata Dr Pepper and Swicy Peach lean into the dirty soda craze, while options such as the Iced Berry Ube Vanilla Matcha and Strawberry Lychee Refresher tap into the growing demand for colorful, Instagram-worthy beverages.

Related: 8 Overrated Fast-Food Burgers (and What to Order Instead)

The Rumored Drink Menu Already Has Fans Ready to Make a McDonald's Trip

Some fans have even wondered whether this could be the next chapter following McDonald's CosMc's experiment. Although the company has shifted away from operating standalone CosMc's locations, executives have previously indicated that lessons learned from the beverage-focused concept could eventually influence McDonald's restaurants. A larger specialty drink menu would certainly fit that strategy. "It seems like it's almost stuff from the spin-off CosMc's that didn't last very long," said one person.

Of course, it's important to remember that this menu remains a rumor. Franchisee conventions often showcase products, concepts and test items that never make it to restaurants nationwide. It's also possible that some of these beverages could appear only in select markets before receiving a broader rollout—or never launch at all.

Still, if customer reactions online are any indication, there's plenty of demand. Social media users are already picking favorites and imagining drive-thru orders, with many saying they'd happily make a trip to try the new drinks. "HORCHATA DR PEPPER???!! YES PLEASE," exclaimed one person.

Whether McDonald's is aiming to compete more directly with Starbucks, capitalize on the dirty soda boom, or offer customers more variety, one thing is clear—beverages are becoming a much bigger part of the fast-food conversation. Now fans will have to wait and see whether this colorful collection of rumored drinks eventually lands on menus across the U.S.

Related: 7 Genius McDonald's Hacks Employees Actually Use When They Order for Themselves

Jerry O'Connell took to the red carpet with his and Rebecca Romijn's adorable twin daughters, and it's safe to say they've inherited their supermodel mother's good looks!

O'Connell, 53, first gained notoriety as a kid in the role of Vern Tessio in the classic 1986 film Stand By Me. As an adult, he had hits with flicks like Scream 2 and the cult-favorite sci-fi series Sliders. More recently, he served as a panelist on the chat show The Talk, and is a frequent face on Bravo serving up hilarious commentary. But of all his roles, it's safe to say that O'Connell's favorite is being a dad. The proud papa hit the red carpet with the 17-year-old twins, Charlie and Dolly, and the stunning young ladies were beaming with sweet smiles on their faces.

"Summer's Last Resort ( @tubi 7/3) screening w/ these two...," O'Connell captioned his photo, which showed Charlie and Dolly with their arms around their dad at the big event.

View this post on Instagram

🎬SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬

What is Summer's Last Resort About?

O'Connell stars with Violet McGraw and Sophia Bush in the comedy, which follows Summer (McGraw), "a high-strung teenager whose birthday getaway takes an unexpected turn when her free-spirited mom's new boyfriend joins the trip, who also happens to be her vice principal. Determined to stop the romance before it gets serious, Summer sets a secret breakup plan into motion, only for it to spiral into a vacation full of sunburns, sabotage, and surprising emotional twists," PEOPLE reported.

Summer's Last Resort premieres July 3 exclusively on Tubi.

What's Next For Jerry O'Connell?

O'Connell has an exciting new gig coming up around the corner. He will be joining the panel alongside Big Brother champions Taylor Hale and Derric Levasseur on the Big Brother companion series Big Brother: Unlocked, Deadline reported yesterday.

“Big Brother is my summer and rolls into my fall too. I’m already watching on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, so the fact that CBS is now paying me to do it is kind of amazing,” O’Connell said in a statement. “It’s an absolute honor to sit next to Derrick—‘Champ,’ as I call him—and Taylor, who is my all-time favorite Big Brother winner (sorry, Jag). This is what we call in showbiz a dream gig.”

Big Brother: Unlocked premieres on Friday, July 10, at 8 p.m. ET on CBS and Paramount+.

Related: John Stamos Spills Rebecca Romijn Divorce Details on 'The Really Good Pod'

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

To get your home summer-ready, Anthropologie has a selection of outdoor essentials on sale right now for over 30% off. Among the current sale options, one discounted item we're super excited to see is a set of shatterproof glasses with a vintage-inspired design that are incredibly convenient for summertime hosting.

Usually priced at $48, you can snag the Esther Acrylic Goblets Set for just $15 during this Anthropologie sale — they're on sale for $30, and that price gets slashed in half when you add the set to your cart. The four-pack comes with matching glasses in your choice of five colors, including peach, raspberry, blue, clear, and sun yellow. 

Esther Acrylic Goblets Set, $15 (was $48) at Anthropologie

Courtesy of Anthropologie

Shop at Anthropologie

These goblets boast a gorgeous beaded trim with a spiralized design that gives them a retro look. Measuring 5 inches tall with a 4-inch diameter and a 12.5-ounce capacity, these goblets are ideal for serving all of your favorite summer beverages from fresh lemonade to iced tea, punch, and sangria. They're also great for mixed drinks and frozen cocktails like margaritas and daiquiris.

These glasses are made from 100% acrylic, so you won't have to worry about them shattering if they're accidentally dropped. They must be hand-washed, but the extra care is well worth fewer worries over broken glass in your pool or on your deck.

Related: Dolly Parton's 'Pretty' $14 Scalloped Stoneware Pie Dish Radiates Country Kitchen Charm

With their "cute" look and "beautiful" design, customers were happy to use these goblets for serving drinks on their patios and pool decks. Shoppers said the shatterproof design made them "perfect for hosting," calling them "great outdoor glasses" that were especially "great for summer."

During a backyard dinner party, one shopper said, "We had a minor 'oops' moment on the patio, and instead of a disaster of shattered glass, the goblet just bounced!" 

Make hosting easy and mess-free this summer with the Esther Acrylic Goblets Set. Anthropologie's sale prices won't last long, so snag your favorite color — or a few to mix and match — while the set is still on sale and you can still get the in-cart discount.

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.

It's been twenty-five years since the world first met and fell in love with our favorite Gemini vegetarian Elle Woods via Reese Witherspoon's instantly iconic performance in Legally Blonde. And now we're getting a whole new take on the bubbly blonde character courtesy the Prime Video prequel series Elle, which takes us back to Elle's 1990s-era high school days as the California girl tries to acclimate at a new school in grungy Seattle, Washington.

Created by Laura Kittrell, with Witherspoon signed on as an executive producer, the new Prime Video show—which starsJune Diane Raphael, Tom Everett Scott, Jacob Moskovitz, Gabrielle Policano and the late James Van Der Beek, as well as newcomer Lexi Minetree as the titular teen—premiered on Wednesday, July 1 and is already one of the streamer's buzziest releases of 2026. So it's only natural that Elle Woods fans are already wondering about a second season of the coming-of-age comedy series.

Here's everything we know so far about Elle Season 2.

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬 

Will there be an Elle Season 2?

Great news, Elle fans! Prime Video picked up a sophomore season of the Legally Blonde prequel series all the way back in January 2026 before its first season even dropped on the streaming service. Production on the second season began this March, with most of filming taking place in Vancouver and New York City, and will reportedly wrap up by the end of June.  

“Twenty-five years after the world met Elle Woods for the first time, it’s a dream come true to share the story of how she became the unstoppable force we all fell in love with,” said Legally Blonde star and series executive producer Reese Witherspoon, per Variety. “Discovering Lexi Minetree and watching her step into Elle’s fabulous shoes has been one of the most gratifying experiences of my career. I think our series’ themes of kindness, authenticity, and believing in yourself will resonate deeply with fans of the original films and new audiences alike. Working with our incredible Hello Sunshine team, Amazon and our visionary writers and directors to bring Elle’s high school journey to life has been a tremendous joy. I can’t wait to share Season One with the world and start rolling cameras on Season Two!”

“’Elle’ captures the heart, confidence, and optimism that made Elle Woods an enduring cultural icon, while giving audiences a fresh and deeply personal coming-of-age story,” said Peter Friedlander, global head of television for Amazon MGM Studios, in a statement. “Ordering a second season speaks to our belief in the creative vision and the incredible team behind the series, and we’re excited for audiences to experience Elle’s journey starting with Season One.”

Related: ‘Legally Blonde’ Reunion Brings Reese Witherspoon to Tears

Lexi Minetree in "Elle", Prime Video's "Legally Blonde" prequel series

Amazon MGM Studios

When is the Elle Season 2 release date?

An exact release date for a second season of Elle has not been officially announced yet by the Amazon streamer. However, given that it took the eight-episode first season little more than a year to go from production (principal photography on season one began in April 2025) to premiere (the series debuted in July 2026), fans can expect the new eps to drop in summer or early fall 2027.

Related: Fans Can’t Get Over Ali Larter’s Appearance at the ‘Legally Blonde’ Reunion

Who is in the cast of Elle Season 2

Of course, there’s no Elle without Elle Woods herself, so Lexi Minetree will obviously be back to reprise her role as our Harvard grad-to-be. Also expected to return are fellow series regulars, including June Diane Raphael as Elle’s mother Eva, Tom Everett Scott as her father Wyatt, Chandler Kinney as Kimberly, Jacob Moskovitz as Miles, Gabrielle Policano as Liz and Zac Looker as Dustin. We’d also expect to see prominent recurring characters like Elle’s L.A.-based BFF Madison (Jessica Belkin) and Liz’s mom Donna (Amy Pietz), who works at Elle’s school.

There will be some cast shake-ups in Season 2. We sadly know that James Van Der Beek will not be back as mayoral prospect Dean Wilson, as the Dawson’s Creek icon died from colorectal cancer on February 11, 2026, at the age of 48. It was the actor’s final role before his death.

In happier news, the cast will welcome Never Have I Ever star Maitreyi Ramakrishnan next season as Sam, the ambitious editor-in-chief of the high school newspaper and a new rival for Elle. 

Related: Reese Witherspoon ‘Devastated’ Following James Van Der Beek’s Death as His Final Role Will Appear in ‘Legally Blonde’ Prequel

Lexi Minetree in "Elle", Prime Video's "Legally Blonde" prequel series

Amazon MGM Studios

What will Elle Season 2 be about?

Though an official logline hasn’t yet been released by Prime Video, early reports say that Season 2 will continue to follow Elle’s junior year at a Seattle high school, specifically her spring semester, which, after that romantic cliffhanger in the Season 1 finale, should be a drama-filled doozy. Along with dealing with the confusion of her feelings for both Dustin and Miles, Elle will have to navigate a new foe in the form of Maitreyi Ramakrishnan’s Sam. 

Related: Jennifer Coolidge Reveals Surprising ‘Legally Blonde’ Audition Mix-Up

Is there a trailer for Elle Season 2?

Not just yet, but Parade will keep you posted when any and all trailer clips drop!

Next, Channel Elle Woods' Determination With the 35 Best Quotes From 'Legally Blonde'

Costco is trying something it has never done before, and shoppers already have plenty to say about it.

The warehouse retailer has officially opened its first standalone gas station in the United States, which is quite different from its traditional model of pairing fuel stations with warehouse locations. The new members-only station recently opened in Mission Viejo, California, giving drivers another place to fill up without stepping inside a Costco store.

While many members welcomed the chance to save on gas, not everyone was convinced the concept goes far enough. Some shoppers noted the location doesn't offer diesel fuel, propane refills, or a car wash, amenities some had hoped would accompany Costco's first standalone fueling station.

“This is really strange... I expect all those things and electric car chargers and a food cout if you're not even going to have a costco to shop at,” one Reddit user shared.

One chimed in, noting, “That is going to be awful to get in and out of. One way in, one way out via a winding bridge to a stop light.”

“This one is a little weird. I live right next to this and it’s in a location that is not super easy to get in and out of, and there are two other Costco locations with gas within about 2-3 miles of this,” another agreed.

Others seemed okay with the new addition, with many saying the station should add a food court where shoppers can obtain their infamous hot dogs and pizza.

“Maybe one day there will be a little vendor booth selling combo pizzas on the side,” one Instagram user commented.

“Imagine a walk up hot dog stand 🤯,” a second said.

Another standalone gas Station is already planned

Mission Viejo won't be the only standalone Costco gas station for long.

The retailer is also developing another location in Honolulu's Kapālama Kai neighborhood at Dillingham Boulevard and Colburn Street. While few details have been released, the Hawaii station is expected to open sometime in 2027.

Costco's expansion isn't slowing down

The company recently opened new warehouse locations in Syracuse, Utah, and Pensacola, Florida, with seven more stores expected to debut this August in New York, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Texas, Georgia, and Missouri.

Looking even further ahead, Costco executives have said the retailer plans to open roughly 26 new warehouses during fiscal year 2026, with a goal of adding 30 or more locations annually in the years that follow.

Related: Costco to Open 9 New Stores Next Month: Is One Near You?

Mick Jagger recently spoke with NME about his experience working alongside one of The Beatles. The legendary Paul McCartney was involved in the new Rolling Stones album, Foreign Tongues, which is coming out on July 10. One of the songs, called “Covered In You,” features McCartney playing bass.

When speaking about the experience, Jagger said, “It was very easy. Obviously, I’ve known Paul for ages. He’s not a stranger, but he’s never played bass with us before. It’s a different thing, you know? I said to Andy [Watt, producer], ‘Is he gonna be into this because it’s a punk tune and I want overdriven bass. It’s gonna be simple, no mucking about.’ And Paul did exactly what was needed in, like, 10 minutes.”

Related: 1957 Rock Song, Which Got George Harrison Into the Beatles, Was Recorded 69 Years Ago

McCartney also spoke about the experience with NME earlier in the year, saying, “You could be a bit blasé and go, ‘Yeah, OK, so what?’ But for me, it wasn’t – it went the other way. It was like, ‘Wow, there’s Mick [Jagger]! Ooh, there’s Keith [Richards]! Whoa, there’s Ronnie [Wood]!’ It was exciting. It was really good. A great thing is all I had to do was play bass and not make mistakes, so it was good.”

McCartney added, “I went home that day, and I’m saying to everyone, ‘I just played with The Stones!’ I was glad I wasn’t blasé about it. It’s really exciting. Not everyone plays with The Stones!”

Related: Peter, Paul and Mary Singer Revealed He Regrets Writing This 1967 Song Lyric Insulting The Beatles

This isn’t the first time that the two icons have worked together. McCartney also played bass in "Bite My Head Off" from The Rolling Stones' 2023 album, Hackney Diamonds. His part of the song was recorded during the same session that he recorded the new song, “Covered In You.”

Jagger was also the inductor when The Beatles were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1988. However, McCartney did not attend the ceremony. George Harrison and Ringo Starr accepted the award. Since then, all four members of The Beatles were separately inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as solo artists. The first was John Lennon in 1994, followed by McCartney in 1999, Harrison in 2004, and Starr in 2015.

Just when you thought the Stormy Daniels versus Donald Trump feud was over, a new Instagram post reignites the fire. 

A 2006 encounter between the adult film star and future president at a celebrity golf tournament in Lake Tahoe turned into a battle of he said-she said when the alleged affair resurfaced in 2016 during Trump’s campaign. Two years later, a hush-money story broke, and Daniels filed a lawsuit to void an NDA. She later went on 60 Minutes, giving her side of the story in a highly publicized interview that drew the public’s attention. 

Later the same year, Trump’s associate Michael Cohen pled guilty to several charges, admitting to setting up a $130,000 payment to Daniels in return for her silence about the Lake Tahoe encounter. 

In 2024, Trump was found guilty on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records related to the hush money. Trump denied any wrongdoing, telling reporters at the time, “This was a rigged, disgraceful trial” and, “I’m a very innocent man.”

Now that the Stormy story has faded into the background of tariffs, high gas prices, and Freedom 250, it seems like the public may have forgotten about this steamy controversy. Or not. 

Daniels recently visited Washington, D.C. for a show at the DC Comedy Lot. The day before she performed (she does stand-up comedy now), the former adult entertainer posted a few pics on Instagram along with the caption, “Had a day off yesterday so we walked around DC. I thought there would be a lot more people out and about but it was pretty quiet.” Could that be a dig at the Freedom 250 celebration? If it is, it’s not the only Trump taunt from Daniels post.

She continued, “Reflecting Pool still almost as yucky as tiny’s gene pool, though.” 

View this post on Instagram

While Daniels doesn’t use Trump’s name, she’s made this intimate observation about the president in the past, also calling him “tiny.” 

Along with a few selfies, Daniels also posts a photo of the Reflecting Pool’s “yucky” water. Of course, the pool has been plagued by controversy following a major renovation project that left the would-be “American flag blue” monument a murky algae-green.

What do fans think about Stormy Daniels’ swipe at Donald Trump?

Fans flocked to Stormy’s post, praising the jab. One wrote, “That post just made my day!”, while others said, “I wish I took that photograph” and “Wow! What I would give to meet you and for a picture with you in front of the capitol building. You are amazing!” 

Not every classic rock song needs lyrics to leave a lasting impression.

Dennis Coffey and the Detroit Guitar Band proved that in 1971 with "Scorpio," an electrifying instrumental built around gritty guitar work, a relentless groove and one of the era's most memorable funk-rock riffs. The recording became a major crossover hit, but its story didn't end there. Forty-five years later, the song experienced a remarkable revival after being featured in the hit television series Better Call Saul.

The recording arrived at a pivotal moment for Coffey.

Already one of Motown's most in-demand session guitarists, Coffey had played on countless recordings for artists including the Temptations, Diana Ross and Edwin Starr.

"Playing for Motown was one of the best gigs in the country," Coffey told The Guardian. "But it was a closed shop. They had a guard sitting on the front door at Hitsville, they didn’t want passersby trying their luck. You couldn't break into the Funk Brothers [band] unless you were asked."

With "Scorpio," he stepped into the spotlight as a solo artist, blending rock, funk and soul into a high-energy instrumental that showcased his signature wah-wah guitar style.

The gamble paid off.

Released in late 1971, "Scorpio" climbed to No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 while topping Billboard's Soul Singles chart. It also earned Coffey a Grammy Award for Best R&B Instrumental Performance, becoming the biggest hit of his solo career and one of the defining instrumental recordings of the decade.

For years, "Scorpio" remained a favorite on classic oldies and funk playlists, but its biggest cultural moment in decades arrived in 2016. The song was prominently featured in the second-season premiere of Better Call Saul, where its infectious groove underscored one of the episode's most memorable opening sequences. The placement introduced the track to millions of viewers, sparking renewed interest in the nearly half-century-old recording.

The television exposure reinforced what longtime fans already knew: "Scorpio" possesses a cinematic quality that makes it an ideal soundtrack for life on the move. Its driving rhythm, funky bass line and unmistakable guitar hook have helped it earn a lasting reputation as one of the great road trip instrumentals, equally at home on an open highway or a television soundtrack.

The song remains a favorite of Coffey's, even after all of these years.

"It always comes down to 'Scorpio,' because that's my signature song, and it has endured for all this time," Coffey told Rock and Roll Globe. "Frank Sinatra I believe once said that if an artist has one song, that people know immediately and associate with them, that's a pretty good measure of success, and Scorpio has always been that song for me. There's 'Black Belt Jones,' and of course all the Motown material, and 'Taurus' and everything, but 'Scorpio' has always been the one for me, and of course it's had a new life through all of the samples, which is great."

More than 50 years after its original release, "Scorpio" continues to find new listeners. Its resurgence through Better Call Saul proved that great music never loses its momentum, ensuring Dennis Coffey's landmark instrumental remains one of the most enduring and exhilarating road trip classics of the rock era.

Related: 1977 Classic Ballad, Named No. 1 Hit for Three Weeks, Became a Soft Rock Anthem

Growing up with a '90s country-loving mom, Toby Keithwas a staple in our house. I vividly remember being obsessed with the music video for "How Do You Like Me Now?!" and crying when she refused to take me to his show. Though my taste in music has changed, I still have a soft spot for those '90s country crooners.

I think a majority of current country fans also have the same affinity for the "old golden days" of country, and this generation of singers is doing everything they can to honor that era and keep the spirit alive. On July 1, just in time for Fourth of July celebrations, budding country star Emily Ann Roberts dropped her version of "Red Solo Cup."

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬

Toby Keith Covered: Nashville Sessions, released by Apple Music, featured not only Roberts but also other budding household names like Tyler Hubbard, Kameron Marlowe, and Jackson Dean.

Roberts actually teased the cover during one of her viral social media videos, where she began singing some of the song while showing off her latest corseted red, white, and blue top that she was working on.

@emilyann_music

You know your meemaw is always cooking up something 👵🏼

♬ original sound - Emily Ann Roberts

As a self-proclaimed "Yeehaw-Memaw," Roberts often shares her homemaking skills, including crochet, gardening, cooking, and various crafts.

Related: Country Star Releases Hit Song, Written in 20 Minutes, Amid 2026 Tour

Emily Ann Roberts' "Red Solo Cup" Cover Earns Fan Praise

Roberts' take on the now-classic track is as lighthearted and fun as the original, only laced with her powerhouse vocals and a slightly quicker pace. The subtle changes really resonated with her audience.

@emilyann_music

Red Solo Cup - Emily Ann Edition !!! I’ve always been a big @Toby Keith fan so I was thrilled when @Apple Music asked me to be a part of this project! Go stream this now for all your bbqs, tailgates, fairs, & festivals only on Apple Music 🤍

♬ Red Solo Cup (Apple Music Sessions) - Emily Ann Roberts

"Something about the way Emily sings the word 'party' really scratches my brain in the best way," said one follower.

"This makes me so happy," added another.

"Toby Keith would love this! Great song, great cover," complimented another.

The song has not been released on Spotify as of publication, but it is available through Apple Music.

Related: Toby Keith Is Honored in a Special Way as Oklahoma Fans Belt Out One of His Biggest Hits

The Surprising History Behind Toby Keith's "Red Solo Cup"

This famously "stupid" song was never actually intended to be recorded. Someone played the song for Keith, which was written by Jim Beavers and his brother Brett, alongside the Warren Brothers, Brett and Brad Warren, according to The Boot.

"'Red Solo Cup' is like a squirrel loose in a church house. We can play it in an office and then play five other songs, give it an hour, walk out, and you'd hear the receptionist singing it," the outlet reported Keith saying. "It's like nursery rhyme stupid."

Even one of the song's writers agreed it was absurd.

"It's absolutely ridiculous," Jim Beavers told The Boot. "I can also say, having been a writer for 10 years and written hundreds of songs, I don't know a song that more people bring up in more instances than this song about a red solo cup. I don't know why, it hits something somewhere. It is the craziest, weirdest song you've ever heard."

Now the famous (or infamous, depending on your POV) song has a brand new life, and that in and of itself is worth raising our red solo cups to.

Former BachelorPeter Weber is calling out former producer Julie LaPlaca, and ex-host Chris Harrison, over LaPlaca's upcoming book, The Love Producer.

In The Love Producer, LaPlaca addresses her rumored relationship with Weber while the pair were filming his season in 2019. Harrison, for his part, wrote the foreword for the tell-all.

Ahead of the book's release on Tuesday, July 7, former Bachelor star Nick Viall criticized it on his podcast, The Viall Files. In a clip shared to Instagram, Viall said he found it "gross" that LaPlaca was "exploiting" her experience as a Bachelor producer, arguing that she took advantage of the power she held over Weber while he was the show's lead.

Weber agreed with Viall, writing in the comment section, "I’ve moved on from this period of my life and I’m ultimately responsible for my choices. What I’ll say is this; I asked Julie on multiple occasions to please keep private, intimate details, private. This wasn’t about a tv show anymore."

"Curious though if she mentions in the book about my last one on one with Hannah Ann [Sluss], and how in the middle of our dinner conversation during one on one producer interviews, Julie tells me 'You will look like the biggest idiot in the world to America if you give her your rose,'" the pilot added. "I find it wrong to mess with a person’s headspace like that and then go on to write a book about them. The fact that Chris [Harrison] endorsed this makes me sick."

RELATED: Former ‘Bachelor’ Producer Reveals ‘Juicy’ Details of Relationship with Peter Weber in New Book

LaPlaca first joined The Bachelor franchise as a date producer during Andi Dorfman’s season of The Bachelorette in 2014. In 2019, she started working directly with the lead for the first time for Hannah Brown‘s season.

“You’re basically with them 24/7. You’re doing all their interviews, prepping them for all their dates, and helping guide them on their entire journey,” she explained to Entertainment Weekly back in April. “The storyteller side of me was really excited when I made that shift because we’re really crafting a 20-hour rom-com.”

Brown’s season introduced fans to Weber, who became the Bachelor after being heartbroken in third place. While Weber’s season was airing, there were a number of theories on how his journey ended—including speculation that he was dating LaPlaca.

The theory took off after the pair spent New Year’s Eve together, with Harrison and ABC executive Rob Mills adding fuel to the fire by neither confirming nor denying the rumor.

LaPlaca finally shut down the speculation after the season ended, writing on Instagram that she and Weber “didn’t kiss at midnight.”

“Peter and I instantly connected,” LaPlaca told Entertainment Weekly. “He felt like an immediate best friend. My job is digging into his heart, getting him to be vulnerable—and I was doing the same. There were moments where I was like, ‘Wow, I’m more open with Peter than I was with my boyfriend of five years.’ There’s this interesting bond that people don’t see, the intimacy that the lead producers have with the people they’re with. … It got complicated and lines became blurred.”

“I will be sharing my truth that I suppressed for a while. I dealt with some shame and some fear around sharing it,” she continued. “And part of my journey was working through that and allowing myself to get to a place to be fully vulnerable—like I got so many cast members to do. Every woman should own her story and own her truth. … It’s very juicy and Bachelor Nation is going to love it.”

🌹 SIGN UP for our The Bachelor newsletter to stay up to date on the latest Bachelor Nation news, exclusive interviews, episode recaps & more 🌹

Gary Barden, the beloved vocalist of the '80s rock band The Michael Schenker Group and Silver, has announced a brand-new solo album. The upcoming release marks Barden's first solo project since 2011.

Since 2004, Barden has released five full-length studio albums. His new record, titled Empowered Emotions, marks a major milestone in his career. The 12-track project is the culmination of over two decades of solo craftsmanship. Ahead of the album's announcement, Barden spoke about how much work went into the recordings, sharing his appreciation for the creative process.

"Empowered Emotions" is a very special record for both Michael [Barden's producer who previously worked with Silver] and me. This album marks 25 years of writing, creating, and sharing music together, and every song carries its own story and meaning. It has truly been a labor of love from start to finish."

Michael Schenker Group live at Nippon Budokan, in Tokyo, Japan on January 20, 1983.

Koh Hasebe/Shinko Music/Getty Images

Barden went on to thank his record label, expressing his excitement for what fans will think of the final product.

"We're incredibly grateful to Frontiers Music for their belief in us and for giving us the opportunity to bring this project to life. We can't wait for everyone to hear what we've created and celebrate this milestone with all the rock fans who have supported us over the years."

Empowered Emotions Track List

1. Barden's Overture
2. Maasai Enkai
3. Hit The Ground Running
4. Empowered Emotions
5. Burning Wind
6. Dark Water
7. Ride Horsemen Ride
8. This Phoenix's Gonna Burn Ya
9. Let The Children Play
10. The Ruling Class
11. Walk Away
12. We'll Meet Again

EmpoweredEmotions is slated for release this fall on September 18. The album's high-energy lead single, "Hit The Ground Running," is currently available for listening.

Related: Supergroup With ’70s Rock Legends Announce New Album 14 Years After Forming