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Ariana Grandeannounced that she would take a “step back from visibility” after her Eternal Sunshine tour. Photos of the slim singer and clips from the latest video for her new single ‘Petal’ set off a flurry of speculation, with fans wondering whether her weight played a role in the decision-making process. Following a wave of body-shaming blasts, Real Time host Bill Maher is one more critic adding his voice to the crowd.

Earlier this week, a representative for Grande told PEOPLE, “She looks forward to finishing her tour and ending it on a high note, both healthily and happily, and then taking a much-deserved break from public-facing work and appearances, which has led to endless, ongoing public scrutiny.” 

Grande’s rep also added, “This tour has been a beautiful experience for her. She loves her fans and has loved every minute of this tour so much.” 

On Friday’s episode of Real Time, comedian Bill Maher joked about the White House’s release of more UFO files in his opening monologue. What does this have to do with the recent rash of scrutiny over the pop singer’s weight?

Maher joked, “By the way, the administration this week, just a few days ago, maybe yesterday, unleashed a new treasure trove of UFO files. Interesting things in there. Triangular craft, weird lights over an army base, a stick-like figure with large eyes. That’s just an Ariana Grande video. We kid. We kid. Maybe that joke will make her eat something, so…maybe it will help.”

Instead of laughter, Maher’s Grande dig was met with audible groans. Not only did his audience seemingly disapprove of this too-far take on the singer, but the jab was met with a sharp backlash on social media. 

After posting the clip on X, Maher’s fans (scratch that, critics) clapped back with, “I’m all for a good joke, but if the government is actually releasing new UFO files, that part is way more interesting than the punchline,” and “Has Bill hired some of Johnny Carson’s writers? The monologues are still funny, just not the same kind of funny.”

The White House released a new wave of UFO files. Sightings include a triangular craft in the sky, high-speed orbs near an army base, and a stick-like figure with large eyes, but that was just Ariana Grande. pic.twitter.com/buBBGk2Ze4

— Bill Maher (@billmaher) August 8, 2026

Of course, the comments didn’t end there. And the rest made those seem tame. “You’re disgusting for joking on a woman’s body like that,” said one X user. Another wrote, “Imagine going from fat shaming Sarah Huckabee Sanders to thin shaming Ariana Grande. Since when does someone who treats plumpness as *that* contemptible a trait get to absolve themselves of their share of culpability for the continued existence of anorexia?” 

As of now, Maher has not commented publicly on his joke or addressed the backlash. 

Check your pantry! The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on Friday, August 7, that Food To Live branded green powder products are being recalled due to potential Salmonella contamination.

The Brooklyn, NY-based company Lexunder Inc., doing business as Food To Live, sold the powder across the United States. Customers could purchase the product online through foodtolive.com, foodinbulk.com, and other online marketplaces.

There are nine green-drink powders and powder mixes that could be affected by Salmonella. The Food to Live products were packaged in both resealable stand-up pouches and bulk cases, weighing 33, 44, and 55 pounds.

According to the FDA, recalled products include SO-72558 through SO-79374, or codes: VFD/ORG/MORP/B/25, C25051312, OSP251001. The company's other products have not been impacted.

Salmonella is a bacterial disease that affects the intestinal tract, according to the Mayo Clinic. Humans primarily become infected by ingesting contaminated water or food. Symptoms include fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting, headache, chills, and abdominal pain.

Signs of illness will most likely appear within 8 to 72 hours after exposure. Healthy people typically improve after several days to a week on their own.  

In rare circumstances, the Salmonella organism can reach the bloodstream and cause serious conditions such as arterial infections, endocarditis, and arthritis.

As of now, no illnesses have been reported from the powders.

The FDA instated the recall after a Food To Live brand Organic Supergreens Mix, 8-ounce package, lot SO-77820, tested positive for Salmonella. The online retailer has ceased production and distribution of the products while the FDA investigates the company. The root of the problem has yet to be determined.

Customers who purchased one of the products are urged not to consume them. If you have an affected powder in your possession, you can either dispose of it or return it for a refund.

Consumers may contact Lexunder Inc. at (718) 717-1029, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST, or at recall@foodtolive.com.

When LeAnn Rimes released "How Do I Live" in May 1997, she was only 14 years old.

Just months shy of her 15th birthday, the young country singer delivered a vocal performance far beyond her years. Although the song faced unusual competition upon its release, it ultimately became one of the biggest crossover hits in music history and is now recognized as one of Billboard's greatest songs of all time.

The song's journey was anything but ordinary.

"I was actually in a restaurant, and [songwriter] Diane [Warren] came up to me and said, 'I have the song,'" Rimes told Smooth Radio years later. "I ended up back up at her studio that night and recorded these three demos, and she was trying to pitch that song, or she had pitched it for [the movie] Con Air."

However, the filmmakers ultimately opted to use a version by Trisha Yearwood in the movie, leading to two competing recordings being released almost simultaneously.

"No harm, no foul! [My version] became huge," Rimes continued.It was one of those things that just, it worked out the way it was supposed to."

Although it peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, "How Do I Live" spent an astonishing 69 weeks on the chart, setting a longevity record at the time. Its remarkable staying power helped it become one of the defining crossover hits of the late 1990s, earning success across the pop, country, and adult contemporary formats.

Its chart legacy has endured for decades.

"How Do I Live" remains one of the greatest songs in the history of the Billboard Hot 100, thanks to its unprecedented longevity and sustained popularity. Even as newer hits have rewritten chart records, Rimes' signature ballad continues to rank among the most successful songs ever to appear on the Hot 100.

The recording also transformed Rimes into an international superstar.

Already a country sensation following "Blue," she successfully crossed into the pop world while still in her teens, paving the way for a career that would include multiple Grammy Awards and millions of records sold worldwide. "How Do I Live" remains the song most closely associated with her remarkable rise.

"When 'How Do I Live' crossed over into the Top 40 and was a huge success… I think people thought I was leaving country music, and that wasn’t the case," Rimes told Vice. "I kind of feel like I got pushed out in a lot of ways. So we had that success with that song, 'I Need You,' and 'You Light Up My Life,' and we were feeling out that territory for actually making a record that way. But I think it was a natural progression and a natural experimentation… I mean I started so young that I had to experiment! I would have been a real boring artist if I didn't. I'm glad I dabbled in everything."

Nearly 30 years after its release, "How Do I Live" continues to resonate with listeners through its timeless melody and emotional performance. Featuring a 14 year-old LeAnn Rimes at the beginning of an extraordinary career, the 1997 ballad has earned its place among the greatest songs in Billboard history, a testament to a performance that has truly stood the test of time.

Related: 1968 Rock Song, With 21-Year-Old Singer Linda Ronstadt, Is Still a Powerful Hit 58 Years Later

Sandie Shaw was 17 when a single song, “(There’s) Always Something There to Remind Me,” changed everything.

Shaw’s distinctive voice and down-to-earth persona helped turn her into one of Britain’s biggest and brightest young stars almost overnight, as the classic pop standard soared to No. 1 in the United Kingdom and continues to resonate with listeners more than six decades later.

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In the summer of 1964, Shaw made her official debut with “As Long as You’re Happy Baby.” But the single flopped, so her manager, Eve Taylor, traveled to the U.S. looking for a fresh hit. What she found was a soulful heartbreak track written by legendary songwriting duo Burt Bacharach and Hal David floating around studios.

First recorded as a demo by Dionne Warwick in 1963, the track was then released as the first commercial single by soul singer Lou Johnson. His rendition peaked at No. 49 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1964. Thinking Shaw could work her magic across the Atlantic with her conversational soprano vocals, Taylor brought the song home.

The move was a good one, as Shaw and producer Tony Hatch soon proved.

With the support of Hatch, Shaw crafted a dramatic, catchy arrangement that complemented her unique and vulnerable style. With lush horns, a light bossa-nova beat, and a unique clicking percussion groove, they turned the American pop-soul hit into an effortlessly cool, youthful British chart-topper.

One of Shaw’s signature aesthetics was to perform barefoot, which leaned into the “stylish underkill” and bohemian look she preferred. Recognizing the promotional value, Taylor and the British press quickly dubbed Shaw “the barefoot pop princess of the 1960s.”

“I’ve never had big boobs, so I’ve never had the temptation to use them as a gimmick,” Shaw once said, via Classic Bands. “But I always sang barefoot, and my stylish underkill was considered original at the time, and still is. My taste and background are very European bohemian. I've never had to shout or wear a chicken on my head to get attention. Everybody has their own way.”

Shortly after the song hit the airwaves, Shaw premiered it on the British pop show Ready Steady Go!, helping turn her already-promising career into a bona fide pop phenomenon.

The performance served as a critical catalyst, fueling a massive sales surge and selling 65,000 copies of the single in its first week alone. The performance made the impact hard to miss.

“It was like a social occasion," Shaw said about performing live on the show. "I liked being Queen Bee. I know I was the fabbest girl there.”

Shaw followed up the success of “(There’s) Always Something There to Remind Me” with two more No. 1 hits: “Long Live Love” in 1965 and “Puppet on a String,” which Shaw performed at the 1967Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna, where she won the whole shebang.

Unfortunately, Shaw didn’t have as much success in the U.S., never reaching the Billboard Hot 100’s Top 40. “(There’s) Always Something There to Remind Me” peaked at No. 52 on the all-genre survey, with “Girls Don’t Come,” her best performer in the States, reaching No. 42.

Internationally, however, the song echoed the success it had in its native country. In Canada and South Africa, the track reached No. 1, while hitting No. 7 in Ireland, No. 10 in the Netherlands, and No. 16 in Australia.

Even though Shaw didn’t make a splash in the U.S., her song certainly did.

“(There’s) Always Something There to Remind Me” was covered by several artists throughout the ’60s and ’70s, including Delroy Wilson and R.B. Greaves. But it’s the revolutionized MTV-generation cover by British synthpop duo Naked Eyes that finally launched the song into the U.S. Top 10, peaking at No. 8 in 1983.

Proof that the song kept reminding listeners of its staying power.

Related: 1964 Ballad, Written by The Rolling Stones, Launched a 17-Year-Old Singer’s Career

What did it take for a song to get banned from the radio in the '60s? Not much, actually. (Just ask the Beatles or the Rolling Stones.) But in the case of what might have been the era's raciest hit, Serge Gainsbourg and Jane Birkin's "Je t'aime...moi non plus," even the Pope got involved.

While Gainsbourg was one of France's most significant cultural icons of all time (flags were flown at half-mast after his death in 1991 at the age of 62), "Je t'aime...moi non plus" was his biggest international hit. It was even the first foreign-language song to hit the top of the charts in the U.K. But what made this accomplishment even more impressive, perhaps, was the fact that it was banned in several countries.

Originally, Gainsbourg wrote "Je t'aime...moi non plus" for Brigitte Bardot. According to the Guardian, Gainsbourg had fallen hard for the French actress (who was married at the time), but their first date didn't go very well. To make up for the disappointing evening, Bardot asked Gainsbourg to write her "the most beautiful love song you can imagine." Gainsbourg actually wrote two songs in response, "Bonnie and Clyde" and "Je t'aime...moi non plus," the latter of which was recorded by the couple in the winter of 1967. Alas, the steamy duet was leaked to the French press, and when the Sunday paper France-Dimanche reported on the Bardot's "groans, sighs, and...little cries of pleasure," her husband demanded that the single be withdrawn.

Bardot ended up going back to her husband, forcing Gainsbourg to find another singer for "Je t'aime...moi non plus." He eventually found the perfect candidate in young English actress Jane Birkin, his co-star in the film Slogan. And though the two went on to have a legendary romance (and a daughter, Charlotte), they didn't get along at first. That changed after the two spent an evening out in Paris, Birkin recalled years later.

"We were at Regine's nightclub for a long time, and I asked Gainsbourg to dance," Birkin said. "And he stepped on my feet! I was so surprised. I thought, 'So this sophisticated, arrogant, seemingly confident man doesn't know how to dance' — and I realized it was because he's in fact shy. He seemed so worldly-wise, but at the same time he was very childlike."

The two soon became "inseparable," and after the movie wrapped, Gainsbourg asked Birkin to record a new version of "J t'aime...moi non plus." It wasn't long before they realized the song was destined to be a sensation.

"The hotel where we were living at the time, where Oscar Wilde had died — Gainsbourg liked it because of that anecdote — had a restaurant in the wine-cellar where people could sit in the little compartments and have dinner, and there was a man who used to play rather slow and discreet records for background music," Birkin explained. "Gainsbourg couldn't resist popping on 'J t'aime...moi non plus.'"

"Everybody's knives and forks were in the air, suspended," she added. "Nobody went on eating. Gainsbourg said 'I think we've got a hit.'"

They were right, of course...but not everybody was a fan. In fact, it was altogether banned in Spain, Italy, Brazil, Sweden and the U.K. (where it became the first banned #1 song). The Vatican even went so far as to denounce "J t'aime...moi non plus," according to The Observer, though it wasn't banned in Italy. Gainsbourg retorted by thanking the Pope for the publicity, per Far Out.

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

Hoka is a beloved sneaker brand that is known for cushioned, supportive designs. Well, Hoka just dropped one of its most comfortable styles in both men's and women's sizes on Costco's website for just $124.99.

Hoka's Arahi 8 Shoes have officially landed on Costco.com. The men's style comes in four colors, including navy (pictured below), cream, ivory and multicolor. The women's style comes in four colors, including purple, black, multicolor and beige. Despite the shoe's super supportive design, each pair is still super stylish without feeling or looking bulky.

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Hoka Men's Arahi 8 Shoe, Navy, $124.99 (Member's Only Price) at Costco

Costco

Both the men's and women's Hoka Arahi 8 Shoe have an abrasion rubber outsole. The shoes also offer heel cushioning as well as Hoka's stabilizing H-Frame technology that helps guide your stride while preventing overpronation. This makes this pair of shoes particularly incredible for those who need some extra arch support.

Related: Target's Chic New Stackable Seagrass Baskets Have Shoppers in Love: 'I Want So Many More!'

These Hoka sneakers have rave reviews on Costco.com, with reviewers mentioning great arch support, cushion and help with conditions such as plantar fasciitis.

"Hokas are one if not the most comfortable shoes I've bought. They have a lot of cushion are great arch support. I have flat feet and with these shoes my feet don't hurt from standing or walking. I highly recommend them," wrote one fan in a five-star review of the Hoka Men's Arahi 8 Shoe on Costco.com.

"I have plantar fasciitis and after trying many different styles (Bondi, Clifton) and brand like Brooks, Nike and many other brands, I found Hoka Arahi helps the best. This is my 6th pair of Arahi throughout the years. They run true to size. Took them to Europe and walked on those cobblestones, sometimes 7-8 miles a day and never had any issues. This is by far my favorite sneakers," said one Costco Member in a five-star review of the women's Hoka Arahi 8 Shoe on Costco.com.

You can find these supportive sneakers on Costco.com. The Member's Only Price for both the men's and women's shoes is $124.99. The shoes come in both half sizes and full sizes. Do note that this is an online-only offer, and there's a limit of two pairs per membership.

Related: Martha Stewart's 'Comfortable' Skechers Slip-ins Look 'Polished' and Offer 'Great Arch Support'

When you think of retirement, your mind might drift to cruises, beach chairs and Mai Tais. Perhaps you dream of soaking up cuddles with any applicable grandkids (or grand-pets) or checking nearly every item off the bucket list you've carefully curated for years.

When you log out of work for the last time, it can feel bittersweet to wrap up one chapter of your life. The new one is full of possibilities, but neurologists and psychologists are urging people to plan for more than just vacations and family time after retirement. They say it's vital to have a plan for preventing cognitive decline in retirement, and you can do this through hobbies. The last day of work and all of your newfound free time afterwards can flood you with emotions, so you'll want to consider how you'll keep your mood steady (and generally happy). The good news is that there are many psychological benefits of hobbies after retirement.

"One of the things I often encourage people to think about is that retirement isn't just a financial transition; it's a psychological one," saysDr. Ernesto Lira de la Rosa, PhD, a psychologist and Hope for Depression Research Foundation media advisor. "We spend years planning how we'll retire, but not always enough time thinking about what we're retiring to."

One neurologist points out that work keeps our brains busy.

"Deadlines, names, problems to solve, people to deal with," lists Dr. Alexander Zubkov, MD, a board-certified neurologist and medical advisory board member for 1MD Nutrition. "Retire, and that friction disappears overnight. The brain still needs it. Patients who plan for that ahead of time do a lot better than the ones who wait until their memory starts slipping."

However, experts say that your brain can continue to grow even as you age through "neuroplasticity." In fact, there are many neuroplasticity exercises for seniors (or people of any age) that can help you grow your brain and learn new skills, like dancing or a new language. Neurologists and psychologists actually agree on the best retirement hobby for brain and mental health, and they reveal it below.

Related: This Is the Best ‘Slow Living’ Hobby for Women Over 50, Psychologists Say

The 'One Hobby' Revealed: Why Doctors Recommend Learning an Instrument

Neurologists and psychologists say that learning a new musical instrument is one of the best hobbies for brain health in retirement. When learning a musical instrument, older adults can build cognitive reserve, develop a sense of identity, improve their mood and enter a flow state in retirement.

Halfpoint Images/Getty Images

The Neurologist’s View: Building 'Cognitive Reserve'

Learning how to play an instrument in retirement is one of the best hobbies for brain health because it can help build a cognitive reserve in older adults, neurologists say. Dr. Smita Patel, DO, MS, an integrative neurologist and sleep medicine specialist with Endeavor Health, explains that a cognitive reserve is your brain's ability to keep functioning, even with the normal changes that happen as we age.

"You can think of it as the brain's 'backup capacity,' built over a lifetime through education, learning, social engagement, and mentally stimulating experiences," she explains. "While cognitive reserve doesn't prevent brain disease, a greater reserve may help people better cope with age-related changes."

Dr. Zubkov shares that learning an instrument builds cognitive reserve in older adults because it:

• Wires together brain regions that don't normally work this closely (hearing, movement and vision work together at the same time).
• Leans hard on working memory ("Reading music and holding a sequence in your head uses the same muscle as everyday problem-solving," he tells Parade).
• Strengthens the link between your left and right hemispheres (your hands are often doing two things at once).

Speaking of hemispheres, you may have heard about right and left brain hobbies, which Dr. Zubkov says is an oversimplified but useful concept when considering hobbies for brain health.

"The left brain leans toward logic and language, chess and Sudoku," he explains. "The right brain leans towards creativity and feeling, painting and dance."

OK, so which one is learning an instrument? The answer isn't black-and-white like sheet music.

"Music sits in the middle," he tells Parade. "You're counting rhythm with one hand and shaping emotion with the other."

Related: Finance Experts Are Begging People Over 50 To Start Doing This ASAP if They’re Not Already

The Psychologist’s View: Identity, Flow and Mood Regulation

There are many psychological benefits to hobbies after retirement, but learning an instrument rises to the top of Dr. Lira de la Rosa's list because it can help people develop a sense of identity, enter a flow state and regulate their moods.

"I love recommending music because it engages so many parts of us at once," he tells Parade. "You're listening, paying attention, coordinating movement, remembering patterns, solving problems and expressing yourself emotionally."

That's important because you may unexpectedly find yourself on an emotional rollercoaster after leaving the workforce.

"Many people feel like they lose part of their identity when they stop working," notes Dr. Sanam Hafeez, Psy.D., a neuropsychologist and director of Comprehend the Mind. "Learning an instrument gives them a new role to grow into."

In other words, rather than thinking "I used to be an accountant," Dr. Hafeez suggests people can think "I'm learning piano" or "I'm a guitarist."

"That shift helps people see themselves as someone who is still growing and learning," she says. "It reminds them that retirement is the start of a new chapter, not the end of one."

You can also enter a flow state in retirement when learning to play an instrument. Dr. Hafeez says this state occurs when you're so focused on an activity that you lose track of time.

"It helps quiet worries and keeps your mind fully in the present moment," she explains. "Many retirees miss the sense of focus and accomplishment that work once provided, and flow can help fill that gap. Learning an instrument naturally creates this feeling because you're concentrating on the notes, rhythm and timing." 

Perhaps unsurprisingly, your mood lifts when you feel like you have a new identity and are experiencing a flow state, but Dr. Lira de la Rosa shares it's more than that. Music is a processing tool.

"Sometimes it's easier to play how you're feeling than it is to explain it," he points out.

Related: 8 Psychological Benefits of Knitting and Crocheting, According to a Psychologist

Passive vs. Active Hobbies: What the Brain Actually Needs

Neurologists say that there's a difference between passive and active hobbies, but both have their place in our lives.

"Passive hobbies, such as watching television, listening to music or watching movies, are enjoyable ways to relax and recover from stress," Dr. Patel explains. "Active hobbies, including gardening, painting, volunteering, cooking, hiking, knitting or learning a new language, require participation, decision-making, creativity or movement."

She notes that active and passive hobbies both have value, but stresses that "active hobbies tend to provide greater cognitive stimulation by engaging attention, memory, coordination and problem-solving."

"A healthy balance of both is ideal," the neurologist explains.

Dr. Zubkov echoes these sentiments.

"Active is where the growth happens," he shares. "Passive isn't bad. Everybody needs rest. The problem is when a passive hobby becomes the whole day. Lean toward active, let passive fill the gaps."

Related: 9 Habits To Help You Stay Youthful in Your 70s, According to a Psychologist

5 Accessible Ways To Start Playing Today (No Talent Required)

Learning an instrument can feel intimidating to older adults, but it's possible to start small and have fun. Experts share their top five tips for learning how to start playing an instrument in retirement.

1. Give yourself permission to be a beginner

You may have held a distinguished career that ended in a corner office full of awards. That doesn't mean you have to be the "best" at everything you do in retirement. But Dr. Lira de la Rosa shares that one of the biggest barriers to taking up a new hobby, like music, is a fear that they're "too old" or "not talented enough" to start. He suggests letting go of the idea that you have to be great at it, at first or ever.

"The value comes from staying curious, trying something new and enjoying the process," he shares. "Ironically, when we stop worrying about being perfect, learning often becomes much more fun."

2. Rent or borrow an instrument before buying one

You may have sticker shock at the prices of musical instruments, especially if you're hyper-aware of the reduced income in retirement and not even sure you'll stick with the hobby. Dr. Hafeez shares that you can rent or borrow instruments before buying them at a lower (or no) cost.

"This is a great way to see if you enjoy playing without spending a lot of money," she says. "Many music stores offer affordable rentals, and friends or family may have an instrument you can borrow. It takes the pressure off and lets you learn at your own pace."

3. Choose music that means something to you

You don't have to play the classics if they're not your jam.

"If you're learning songs you actually enjoy, you're much more likely to stick with it," Dr. Lira de la Rosa notes. "Personal enjoyment is a much stronger motivator than trying to master technical exercises."

4. Consider a group class

While you may blush at first, this is a great first step. It's vulnerable to learn in front of others, but Dr. Zubkov shares that there's a ton of value to adding people into the mix, especially in retirement.

"Loneliness is its own risk factor for decline, and having others counting on you makes you show up," he notes.

5. Start small

Dr. Hafeez suggests starting with 10-15-minute practice sessions per day.

"Short practice sessions are easier to stick with and help build confidence over time," she notes. "You don't need hours of practice to make progress, especially in the beginning. Small improvements each day add up and help keep the experience fun instead of frustrating."

Consider ending on a high note.

Up Next:

Related: We Asked 3 Psychologists What Happy Couples Over 50 Do Right—They All Said the Same Thing

Sources:

• Dr. Ernesto Lira de la Rosa, PhD, is a psychologist and Hope for Depression Research Foundation media advisor.
• Dr. Alexander Zubkov, MD, is a board-certified neurologist and medical advisory board member for 1MD Nutrition.
• Dr. Sanam Hafeez, PsyD, is a neuropsychologist and director of Comprehend the Mind.
• Dr. Smita Patel, DO, MS, is an integrative neurologist and sleep medicine specialist with Endeavor Health.

More than four decades after Cocteau Twins scored their first No. 1 album, one of the Scottish band's lesser-known songs is suddenly finding a new audience.

"Cico Buff," a slow, dreamy ballad released on the band's 1988 album Blue Bell Knoll, has made an unexpected appearance on TikTok's Top 50 chart, debuting at an impressive No. 9.

The song wasn't even released as a single when the album arrived 38 years ago. Instead, "Carolyn's Fingers" became Blue Bell Knoll's breakout track in the United States, eventually reaching No. 2 on Billboard's Modern Rock Tracks chart.

But now, "Cico Buff" is having an unlikely moment of its own.

@brooklynn..secr3t

If not now, then when? #fyp #viral

♬ original sound - wockstarz⭐️

TikTok users have recently gravitated toward the atmospheric track for videos about relationships, loneliness, uncertainty and moving forward.

One video using "Cico Buff" is captioned, "In many ways, I prefer my own company, give me time to think." Another asks, "If not now, when?"

Others strike an even more bittersweet note. "I think being no one's first choice builds a lot of character," reads one, while another says, "What's not meant for you will disappoint you a thousand times until you finally understand."

@1011010100110_1

Cocteau Twins - Cico Buff #fyp #cocteautwins #cicobuff #landsat

♬ เสียงต้นฉบับ - N - Ñ

The song has also been paired with an emotional Stranger Things scene between Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) and Mike (Finn Wolfhard) in which she questions whether he still loves her.

It's easy to understand why "Cico Buff" lends itself to those kinds of videos. Elizabeth Fraser's soaring, elusive vocals float over Robin Guthrie and Simon Raymonde's atmospheric instrumentation, creating a song that can feel melancholy, romantic and hopeful all at once.

Fraser's unconventional approach to lyrics was a defining part of Cocteau Twins' sound. She often sang invented or difficult-to-decipher words, allowing her voice to function almost as another instrument.

That approach was particularly pronounced on Blue Bell Knoll. Fraser later recalled the freedom she felt putting conventional lyrics aside while making the album, and said that at the time, "Not one word can you grasp. Giving anything away… it just wasn’t allowed.”

By the time "Cico Buff" arrived in 1988, Cocteau Twins had already spent years developing the ethereal sound that would make them hugely influential.

Formed in Scotland in 1979, the band released its debut album Garlands in 1982. After bassist Will Heggie departed, Guthrie and Fraser began rethinking their sound, eventually releasing Head over Heels in 1983. Raymonde joined soon afterward, completing the trio's best-known lineup.

The group continued expanding its audience throughout the decade with releases including Treasure, Victorialand and eventually Blue Bell Knoll. Their music helped pioneer dream pop and shape what would later become known as shoegaze.

Blue Bell Knoll also marked a significant step in the band's American career, becoming their first album to receive major-label distribution in the United States through Capitol Records. It peaked at No. 15 on the U.K. Albums Chart and No. 109 on the Billboard 200.

The album was also a critical favorite. NME gave it a 9/10 review and ranked it among the best albums of 1988. Retrospective reviews have remained strong, including a perfect 10/10 from Drowned in Sound and an 8.3/10 from Pitchfork.

Drowned in Sound wrote at the time, "From start to finish, it's a record that gleams with grace and emotion; chiming, mournful guitars and layered tapestry of sounds evoke a vast array of imagery."

"Cico Buff" was tucked away as the sixth song on the 10-track album, but it wasn't completely overlooked at the time. Although it wasn't released as a traditional single, a promotional music video was created for the song alongside one for "Carolyn's Fingers."

Cocteau Twins would achieve their greatest mainstream album success with 1990's Heaven or Las Vegas, which reached No. 7 in the U.K. The trio ultimately disbanded in 1997.

Nearly three decades after the band called it quits, however, their music continues to find new listeners. And this time, it's a 1988 deep cut that never even became a single leading the charge.

Related: 1977 Fleetwood Mac Smash, Called the 'Most Iconic Breakup Album of All Time,' Is Finally Giving Up Its Secrets

Isla Fisher is settling into a life she once struggled to imagine, and the experience has revealed a depth of resilience she did not know she possessed.

More than a year after finalizing her divorce from actor Sacha Baron Cohen, the 50-year-old actress spoke candidly about the people who helped her regain her footing. The Confessions of a Shopaholic star shared the personal update with E! News, while attending the Las Vegas premiere of upcoming comedy film Spa Weekend.

Isla Fisher Says Female Friendships Helped Her Recover Her Strength View this post on Instagram

Fisher credited the women closest to her with providing stability during one of the most difficult periods of her life.

“I'm much stronger than I thought I was,” Fisher told the outlet, explaining that her female friendships helped her reconnect with that confidence. “I'm incredibly grateful.” Those relationships gave Fisher a place to turn as she adjusted to life outside a longtime partnership. Her latest comments reflect a noticeable shift from the uncertainty she expressed while navigating the early stages of the separation. Watch the video here.

That spirit of female connection also shaped Fisher’s experience making “Spa Weekend,” which opens in theaters Aug. 21.

Isla Fisher and Sacha Baron Cohen Finalized Their Divorce in 2025 View this post on Instagram

Fisher and Baron Cohen announced in April 2024 that they had jointly filed for divorce in 2023, according to the Hollywood Reporter.

Their decision ended a 13-year marriage and a relationship that had lasted more than two decades. The former couple, who share three children, finalized the divorce in June 2025. In a joint statement, they said they would “remain friends and committed to co-parenting our wonderful children,” while requesting continued privacy for their family, as per People.

Before the divorce was completed, Fisher described the breakup as “the most difficult thing that I've been through," in an interview with The Times. She also emphasized that she and Baron Cohen remained committed and loving parents despite the end of their marriage.

Isla Fisher Embraces a Liberating New Chapter at 50

Fisher has since spoken with growing optimism about her new life. After turning 50, she said the milestone and her divorce had left her feeling unexpectedly free. “I'm good. I'm so great,” she told People in March. She also described herself as feeling liberated and open to new possibilities.

It's been 57 years since the most recognizable album cover of all time was created. Since then, the zebra crossing at Abbey Road in London, England, has seen a steady stream of Beatles fans attempt to recreate the Abbey Roadalbum cover.

Yet, despite the simplicity of the shot—photographer Iain Macmillan took just six photos within ten minutes—most who try to replicate it are missing an element that was crucial to getting the original shot.

A general view of the 'Abbey Road Studio' room is seen at the Beatlemania exhibition on May 28, 2009 in Hamburg, Germany.

Krafft Angerer/Getty Images

"I remember we hired a policeman to hold up traffic while I was up on the ladder taking the pictures," Macmillan told The Guardian in 1989.

Paul McCartney's Original Vision

Macmillan had met John Lennon in 1966 while photographing Yoko Ono's Unfinished Paintings and Objects installation. Three years later, Lennon asked the Scottish photographer to do the Abbey Road cover.

However, while he took the photos, he admitted the concept belonged to someone else.

"The whole idea, I must say, was Paul McCartney's," he revealed. "A few days before the shoot, he drew a sketch of how he imagined the cover, which we executed almost exactly that day."

The weather on that Friday morning in August 1969 was hot. While Lennon, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr were all wearing shoes, McCartney noticeably was barefoot.

"I happened to be wearing sandals," McCartney explained during a 2018 interview. "So I just kicked them off, because it was just so hot," he continued. "And went across perfect. There was no special meaning behind it."

But many people did find meaning behind it.

Fueling the 'Paul is Dead' Rumors

A conspiracy theory arose after the album was released that a Paul McCartney look-alike was used in the photoshoot, because he'd died. Even the license plate of a Volkswagen—LMW 281F—that just happened to end up in the background of the photo was believed to prove the "Paul is dead" rumor.

People saw "28 IF" instead of 281F, and decided it meant that McCartney would have been 28 "IF" he had lived. Ironically, he was only 27 when they made the album cover. As for his being barefoot, Beatles fans weren't used to seeing McCartney barefoot. Conspiracy theorists latched onto this unusual circumstance, convinced that it was a clear sign that it wasn't him in the photo.

In an interview with Time Magazine in November 1969, McCartney dismissed the rumor. "It's all bloody stupid," he remarked.

Today, millions of fans continue to kick off their shoes and step into the street, hoping for the perfect Abbey Road shot. But the real secret behind the iconic cover wasn’t a grand, calculated master plan, but a spontaneous mix of a rough sketch, a hasty ten-minute shoot, and a hot London summer day.

PhilCollins' iconic hit songs come naturally to him.

The former Genesis frontman spoke about his process and some of his favorite tracks in a recent appearance on BBC Radio 2's Tracks of My Years with Vernon Kay.

“I suppose, you know, a lot of my lyrics come from somewhere. I very rarely sit down, very rarely sit down and think ‘what am I going to write about?’ I don’t ever do that,” Collins said.

“Normally, if I’m playing — something usually comes when I’m playing a piano — and something will develop if I’m lucky, and then what I’m going to sing kind of goes along with it or comes along very soon afterwards,” the singer continued.

The 75-year-old rocker reflected on his hit song “In the Air Tonight.” The 1981 track came to him while riffing and was “pretty much 80% improvised."

“I had this chord sound on this keyboard that I had … and I had this lovely sound, which is the sound you hear on the record,” Collins said.

The song reached No. 19 on the Billboard Hot 100. He was alone in his bedroom when he first played the chords on his keyboard.

“I might have done it once or twice, but I certainly didn’t labor on it,” he said. After he finalized the piano, he then “programmed the drum machine just to make an interesting pattern, and then I played along with it, and that’s what happened.”

“When I’d done that, I sang along with what I had just to get the sound of a voice in there,” Collins revealed. “And the words that came out on that first verse were improvised.”

The Grammy winner shared that his process for “In the Air Tonight” was not out of the ordinary for him.

Collins explained “you only need a couple of lines, two or three lines, and you kind of know what it’s going to be about or what the feeling is, you know, and so a lot of the lyrics are kind of improvised.”

Sunny Hostin is still in love nearly 30 years after saying “I Do.” The View staple is basking in happiness, celebrating 28 years of marriage to her husband, Dr. Emmanuel "Manny" Hostin.

Sunny shared a touching tribute to Instagram. The pair have been married since 1998 and share two children: Gabriel and Paloma.

“Twenty-eight years. ❤️” she began in a post, featuring throwbacks from their wedding day and special moments throughout the years. “To my handsome, dashing, loyal husband—thank you for still making me laugh every single day. After all these years, we’re still the couple our friends intentionally seat apart at dinner parties because somehow we always end up finding each other, tucked away in a corner, laughing out loud. You have been my greatest love, my best friend, and my safest place. Here’s to 28 incredible years and to a lifetime more of laughter, love, and finding each other in every room. Happy Anniversary, my love.”

In a 2025 episode of The View during their “Hot Topics” segment, Sunny admitted she nearly missed out on her forever love because he didn’t meet a height requirement. "I was going to cancel Manny because I thought he was too short," Hostin recalled in the episode, as reported by PEOPLE. Her best friend convinced her to give Manny a chance. "Regina told me he could stand on his medical degree, and he’d be tall enough. She gives good advice."

Sunny revealed in her 2020 memoir that she first spotted Manny in a Maryland church after a run. She said his style made her notice him, writing, “[He] was gorgeous,” and “decked out in a beautifully tailored suit.”

But if you ask Manny, their first real interaction happened in a bagel shop, where he struck up a conversation. Sunny jokes that she followed him to the bagel shop after the church service. Either way, their love has stood the test of time.

There’s a lot that shapes how a person eats. Certainly, one’s culture and the foods they ate growing up play a big role. Your favorite meals may be ones that your own parents or grandparents used to make. 

Being exposed to other ways of eating through friends, dining at new restaurants or traveling around the world also influences how we eat. Similarly, your partner may have introduced you to foods they love that you’ve grown to love, too.

Health is, of course, another factor that shapes one’s diet. Maybe you’ve researched and found one to follow based on your specific health goals, such as the DASH diet to lower hypertension or the MIND diet to reduce the risk of dementia.

Choosing a diet to appear more attractive to others is something you may have never considered, but a 2026 scientific paper published in Recent Progress in Nutrition found that there just may be a connection. Parade talked to the paper’s lead researcher and author, David Goldman, RD, a registered dietitian, visiting researcher with the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Helsinki and the Director of Research and Development at Metabite, Inc., to learn more.   

Related: Want to Lower Your Cholesterol? Cardiologists Say This Is the Best Diet To Follow

The Diet That Can Make You More Attractive, According to Research

According to the research conducted by Goldman and his team based on data from the past 25 years, following a plant-based diet is associated with being more attractive to others. They found that eating primarily plants led to preferred body composition, facial appearance and body odor.

Perhaps one of the most straightforward findings was that eating a primarily plant-based diet lowers BMI, which is associated with higher attractiveness. “Many minimally processed plant foods are naturally lower in calories and high in fiber, which helps people feel full while eating fewer calories. Research shows that plant-based diets lead to bigger drops in BMI and body fat compared to diets that include meat. By supporting a healthier body composition, these diets help people reach the body fat levels linked to peak physical attractiveness,” Goldman tells Parade.

Related: The One Food You Should Eat Every Day if You Want To Live to 100, According to Registered Dietitians

Another one of the findings was that meals that are low-glycemic and don’t spike blood sugar are associated with higher attractiveness.

“Experiments showed that eating a high-glycemic breakfast made people look less attractive just two hours later,” Dr. Goldman says. This is because an insulin spike can influence hormones, which can subtly affect facial features and skin characteristics. 

“Over time, high-glycemic diets are linked to women looking older and men appearing less masculine, probably because of how high blood sugar affects hormones and skin,” Goldman adds.

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The Connection Between Scent and Attractiveness

Goldman and his team also found that what you eat influences how you naturally smell, which in turn influences how attractive others find you. “Diet is a main non-genetic factor that affects sweat and how it turns into body odor,” he explains.

Goldman says that studies found that men who didn’t eat meat produced sweat that was rated as more attractive, more pleasant and less intense than men who ate a lot of meat. Ever heard of the meat sweats? It’s real. A study published in the journal Chemical Senses found a link between a diet high in red meat and worse body odor.  

Similarly, Goldman and his colleagues’ research found that eating more fruits and vegetables is also linked to sweat that smells more floral, fruity, sweet and pleasant.

“While this is a new area of research, it suggests that what we eat can change our body odor in ways that matter for social interactions,” he tells Parade.

The Most Important Takeaway

Certainly, there are more important factors for choosing a diet than how it will make you look to others. And it’s of course important to keep in mind that attraction is entirely subjective. 

“Attractiveness involves more than just looks. It combines visual cues, scent and body composition into one overall impression,” Goldman says, adding that his research suggests that diet affects all these traits in different but connected ways. “Even if each effect is small, together they show how nutrition shapes our appearance across several senses at once."

What he hopes people take away from the study is that eating impacts the body both immediately and long-term.

“Many food choices can lead to visible and socially meaningful changes within weeks, which can motivate people to stick with better habits,” Goldman says, adding that if attractiveness is an incentive that motivates people to eat healthier, he’s all for it. 

Perhaps what’s most important isn’t how your diet will change how others see you, but how you see yourself. New research published in Nutrientsshows that balanced nutrition is associated with higher self-esteem. And that’s a reward worth way more than what anyone else thinks.

Up Next:

Related: More Than 40 Years Ago, This Diet Became a National Obsession—Dietitians Say It Didn’t Hold Up

Sources:

• Goldman, D. and Nagra, M. (2026). The Role of Plant-Forward Diets in Physical Attractiveness: Integrating Facial, Olfactory, and Morphological Signals for Health Behavior Change.Recent Progress in Nutrition. doi:10.21926/rpn.2602010. 
• David Goldman, RD, registered dietitian, visiting researcher with the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Helsinki and the Director of Research and Development at Metabite, Inc.
• Havlicek, J. and Lenochova, P. (2006). The effect of meat consumption on body odor attractiveness.Chemical Senses. 31(8):747-52.
• Sӑlcudean, A., Osz, B. E., Cȋmpian, D. M., et al. (2026). Dietary and Lifestyle Factors Associated with Self-Esteem in Adolescents: An Exploratory Questionnaire-Based Study. Nutrients. 18(3):546.

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There's something so fun about summer accessories, especially when they lean into playful coastal motifs. From beaded sardines and sand dollars to sailboats and compasses, seaside-inspired pieces are having a major moment this season. Lobsters, in particular, have become one of the biggest trends, popping up on clothing and accessories everywhere. It's an easy way to add a touch of coastal charm to any outfit.

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If you've been looking for an easy way to try the trend without splurging, Amazon's Lobster Embroidery Straw Tote is worth a look. It has the same coastal-chic feel as pricier designer styles, but it's currently available for just $11.

Lobster Embroidery Straw Bag, $11 at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

Hand-woven from natural straw fibers with a cotton lining, this tote is lightweight, breathable, and durable enough for everyday summer wear. It features a secure zipper closure to keep your essentials tucked away, making it just as practical as it is stylish.

The embroidered red lobster is what makes this bag stand out, accompanied by a matching red keychain that adds an extra playful detail. The design is framed by bold red trim and piping along the edges, while the top handles are wrapped in a printed scarf to bring even more texture to the silhouette. 

Together, these details capture the coastal-prep, Nantucket-inspired aesthetic that's been everywhere this summer. One five-star reviewer described the bag as “beautiful,” and it genuinely looks like something you'd stumble across in a charming seaside boutique.

Measuring 11.8 inches wide by 10 inches tall, it's compact without feeling cramped. There's plenty of room for your phone, wallet, keys, sunglasses, and other daily essentials, while still staying lightweight for long beach walks or sightseeing. One shopper called it “lightweight” and “the right size” for carrying everyday essentials.

It also offers plenty of versatility thanks to its top handle and detachable shoulder strap. Carry it by hand, wear it over your shoulder, or style it crossbody for hands-free convenience. It's a great companion for beach days, brunch, shopping trips, vacations, or everyday errands.

The lobster tote pairs effortlessly with many of the staples already trending this summer. Style it with a breezy linen button-down and white shorts for a classic coastal look, or pair it with a striped sundress and leather sandals for a nod to New England style. It also looks great with relaxed denim, swimsuits, and simple maxi dresses, adding personality without overpowering your outfit.

Shop More Deals

• Lfaayyf Red Lobster Hair Clip, $8 at Amazon
• 3dg Retro Lobster T-Shirt, From $10 Amazon
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Related: Patricia Nash’s Scalloped Raffia Crossbody Is the ‘Perfect Summer Bag’ With Coastal Grandmother Flair

For a summer bag that's equal parts trendy and timeless, Amazon's Lobster Embroidery Straw Tote is an easy pick. At just $11, it's an affordable way to embrace one of the season's biggest accessory trends while adding a fun, coastal-inspired touch to your warm-weather wardrobe.

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On the heels of the mega success of the Michael Jackson biopic, a docuseries about Jackson family patriarch Joe Jackson is in the works. Billboard reports that Joe’s life will be examined in an eight-part docuseries for BLK Prime. Jackson 5 member and son Marlon Jackson is narrating the project.

The announcement was made on the Jacksons' Instagram. The series is currently titled The Manager, The Mythology, The Legend, which will delve into Joe’s family’s rise from Gary, Indiana, to him cultivating his family into global superstars. 

Marlon spoke with Page Six, explaining he wants viewers to see Joe through a different lens. Historically, Joe has been met with public criticism for his alleged use of corporal punishment on his children, and others have felt he used them as a meal ticket to get out of poverty.

“Our father’s life is replete with triumphs and challenges, and we firmly believe that this series will offer a distinctive and accurate portrayal of the man behind our family,” he said when speaking to Page Six. “We are thrilled to share my father’s indelible legacy with fans worldwide, granting them an intimate glimpse into the remarkable individual we knew and loved.”

The series intends to show an intimate portrait of Joe, as well as explore the Jackson 5’s relationship with Motown and how fame impacted the family. 

Throughout the years, Joe has defended his disciplinary tactics with his children. Michael publicly admitted he feared his father growing up, saying he was subjected to intense beatings as a child. "I never beat him," Joe said in 2009, per CBS News. "I whipped him with a stick and a belt. I never beat him. You beat someone with a stick."

When speaking with Oprah Winfrey in 2010, Joe and longtime wife Katherine spoke about Joe disciplining their children. Katherine encouraged Joe to take responsibility for his choices, telling him, Winfrey, and the audience, "You might as well admit it: That's the way black people raised their children. He used a strap."

After Molly Ringwald became the ultimate John Hughes muse, starring in Sixteen Candles, The Breakfast Club, and Pretty in Pink - a script Hughes reportedly wrote specifically for her - there apparently was a fourth collaboration audiences never got to see.

According to Entertainment Weekly, Ringwald recently opened up about the lost project, a film called Oil and Vinegar, during an appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen. The movie was set to reunite her with Hughes and co-star fellow '80s icon Matthew Broderick, but it never made it to production.

“I was supposed to make another one, actually. Matthew Broderick and I were supposed to make one together,” Ringwald said. “We were all set to do it and then something happened, and it didn't end up happening.”

Speaking to The Atlantic in 2010, she explained that the script needed rewrites Hughes wasn't willing to tackle at the time, while her own schedule also got in the way. “It's too bad because it was a very funny script. The movie would have been fantastic,” she said, adding that she and Broderick had genuine chemistry.

According to Broderick, the film leaned into the intimate, stripped-down storytelling Hughes was known for, with much of the story taking place inside a car and centered on just two characters - *similar in spirit to The Breakfast Club's single-location setup.

“It was a very typical romantic comedy about two very different people who fell in love, but it was very inventive in its smallness,” he recalled. Director Howard Deutch, who helmed Pretty in Pink and Some Kind of Wonderful, was also attached to the project and called it Hughes' “favorite script.” He described it as a mismatched romance between Broderick's traveling salesman and Ringwald's rock-and-roll rebel.

Ultimately, scheduling issues and unfinished rewrites kept Oil and Vinegar from reaching the big screen. But the script may not be lost forever. “It could still happen,” Deutch said in a 2014 interview. “The script is still there. It's one of his great scripts.”

Double Lives of Suburban Wives star Brianna Coppage isn't sugarcoating the real-life repercussions of being a spicy content creator.

Ahead of the TLC show's Aug. 9 premiere, Brianna, 31—a wife, mother, and former teacher—sat down with Parade to discuss her OnlyFans stardom.

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In 2023, Brianna was placed on leave from her job as a high school English teacher in Missouri when her OnlyFans account was discovered; she ultimately resigned.

"It completely changed everything about my life," she admitted. "It was flipped upside down, honestly. Just having your name and your face like blasted all over the country."

In Double Lives of Suburban Wives, Brianna and her husband, Phillip, are featured alongside her fellow "MILF House" spicy content creators—Tammy, Macy, Heather, Emily, and Megan—who all live in the St. Louis area.

"When my story came out three years ago, like on the news, I was able to talk to reporters and things like that and tell my side of the story," she told Parade. "But this is completely different. Like, this is actually like letting people see who I am."

'Double Lives of Suburban Wives': Former Teacher Details Real-Life Repercussions of Spicy Content Creation (Exclusive) (1:19)

Among the storylines in Season 1 is the ongoing tension between Brianna and Megan, a fellow former teacher who was forced out of the same school over her own spicy online content.

"We both were doing content secretly; we didn't know," Brianna explained. "We went out one night, we accidentally told each other. And then when I got found out, she got scared, she took everything down. Because she didn't want to be found out."

She continued, "People were already investigating her. But then she decided to participate in a show on my page, but keep her face out of it. And then that just re-sparked an investigation into her. And that kind of spiraled from there for her."

Brianna also teased, "There were secrets kept for a long time. And you'll definitely have to watch and find out because it gets interesting."

'Double Lives of Suburban Wives' (TLC)

Additionally, TLC viewers will see Brianna and her friends get kicked out of a gym simply because of their line of work.

"Myself, Macy and Tammy were at Tammy's gym working out, and we were just like stretching," she recounted. "We were talking about MILF House and like, who's in and who's out of our group. And you know, we're just having like girl time, girl talk."

Brianna continued, "We go to get on the treadmill, and we were approached saying that someone recognized me and looked me up, and we had to get out. So the three of us got kicked out of the gym for simply just existing and working out, and they didn't like my presence."

In addition to losing her job and getting kicked out of a gym, Brianna said that she and her husband have been "de-banked from numerous banks for lawful transactions."

"This is just kind of another day. Like, this happens, this is not my first rodeo," she said. "People just don't like my presence just because of what I do.

Double Lives of Suburban Wives premieres on Sunday, Aug. 9 at 10 p.m. ET on TLC and will be available to stream the next day on HBO Max.

Next: Double Lives of Suburban Wives: Spicy Content Creator Emily Insists "We’re Just Like Everyone Else" (Exclusive)

Hunter Biden is speaking candidly about his father's health, revealing thatJoe Biden's prostate cancer has continued to spread. In an interview with BBC Newsnight released Friday, Hunter said the disease has "metastasized into his bones and further." He described it as "very painful, and it's very debilitating in many respects."

Despite the toll, Hunter said his father remains active. "He's still out there," Hunter said. "He's still doing his thing. He so believes in this country." Hunter, 56, grew reflective discussing the situation, calling it "really sad to watch."

He added, "The only thing that I'd say about my dad, about his health right now, is I wish he would complain more, because it's not good."

According to the BBC, Biden's office announced in May 2025 that the 83-year-old had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer after he experienced ongoing urinary symptoms. 

U.S. President Joe Biden speaks onstage during the first day of the Democratic National Convention at the United Center on August 19, 2024

(Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

Doctors discovered a nodule on his prostate during evaluation. By October 2025, NBC News reported that his team confirmed he had begun radiation therapy alongside hormone treatment.

Former first lady Jill Biden told Kelly Ripa on SiriusXM's Let's Talk Off Camera with Kelly Ripa in July that she'd noticed warning signs years earlier, while still in the White House, when her husband was getting up to use the bathroom as often as seven times a night. She said she raised the concern with White House physicians at the time and believed it had been addressed. 

After leaving office in January 2025, when the symptoms continued, she pushed him to seek further evaluation. "I said, 'Joe, we've got to go up to Jeff in Philly, something's wrong,'" she recalled. Jill has also said her husband will need to manage the disease for the rest of his life through ongoing medication, as per New York Post.

Despite the diagnosis, Biden has kept a public presence in recent months. He appeared at the opening of the new Obama Presidential Library in Chicago in June, where he drew attention after stepping up to a lectern and asking, "Where's my granddaughter?"

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Later that month, he joined Maryland Democrats at their "Fight Back and Win" gala outside Baltimore.

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The transition from summer to fall wardrobe is seamless —  if you have the right attire. The key to switching seasons is perfecting layers, and investing in breathable shoes that can easily be worn in warm and crisp weather. One of our favorite seasonal styles are loafers and mules, which are currently on sale at Macy's. The Style & Co Naomii Slip-On Mules are 40% off, and only available on the retailer's website. 

The footwear originally cost $50, but has been reduced to just $30, with the beige colorway being marked as a clearance deal. The style is available in five total colors: leopard print, black, denim, and brown. We love the beige hue because it looks straw-like, which is very reminiscent of summer. The leopard print is also a fun go-to all year long that will add a bold pattern to your outfit. 

Style & Co Naomii Slip-On Mules, $30 (were $50) at Macy's

Courtesy of Macy's

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The available sizes range from 5 to 12, including half sizes, with most shoppers saying that they're true to size. One reviewer did note that they run slightly large, so we recommend consulting the size chart for best results. The design features a flat heel, almond toe, and classic slip on style that allows you to take them on and off with ease. 

Style & Co Naomii Slip-On Mules, $30 (was $50) at Macy's

Courtesy of Macy's

Shop at Macy's

The mules are made of a microfiber upper and lining with a rubber sole. Microfiber is actually known to be well-ventilated because it features small pores that allow air to pass through, making the footwear ideal for high temperatures. There is a cushioned insole for ultimate comfort as well — just note that the outsole doesn't have traction, so you may want to avoid sporting them on uneven terrain. 

Shoppers described the mules as "very comfortable," "well-made," "perfect," "stylish," and "easy to slip on for everyday wear." Other customers love that the shoe "looks great with both casual and dressy outfits," so they're extremely "versatile." Due to the fact that the style is lightweight and pairs with nearly anything (especially the minimalist colors), they'd also make a great travel companion. 

Shop More Deals 

• Nine West Valore Slip-On Dress Ballet Flats, $69 (was $99) at Macy's
• I.N.C. International Concepts Kasandra Bow Loafers, $49 (was $70) at Macy's
• On 34th Pull On Paperbag Cargo Wide Leg Pants, $56 (was $80) at Macy's

These stunning mules are going to become your new go-to throughout the fall season. Shop the highly-rated style at Macy's while it's 40% off!  

Related: Skechers' $30 Slide Sandals Are 'Soft,' 'Supportive,' and 'Perfect for a Hot Summer Day'

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Spending your days fighting exhaustion makes everything harder. Fatigue zaps your motivation and makes it difficult to concentrate, which can make doing anything that requires any brain power whatsoever take three times as long. 

Feeling exhausted gets in the way of enjoying life too. Maybe you were looking forward to a dinner out with your friends, but when it finally happens, you’re too tired to follow the conversation and wish you were just at home in bed.

Fatigue is such a common feeling that perhaps it isn’t surprising that 18% of people take a dietary supplement specifically to gain more energy, according to data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, published in Nutrients.

There’s one very common supplement many people take for energy, but according to doctors, it can completely backfire. Keep reading to find out what it is and what to do instead.

Related: Always Tired? Doctors Say This Common Nutrient Deficiency Could Be To Blame

The Supplement That Can Destroy Your Energy

On paper, taking a melatonin gummy each night before you go to bed sounds like it can do wonders for your energy levels. After all, consistently getting good sleep is the most effective way to feel more energized. But it’s something that doctors we talked to warn against.

There are a few reasons why melatonin gummies can actually make you feel even more fatigued. Dr. Alexander Acosta, MD,a primary care doctor with SonderCare, says that one reason is that many melatonin gummies are high in sugar. 

“Many of my patients who were complaining about feeling tired in the morning were taking melatonin gummies at night and never read the label. The sugar in those gummies can trigger insulin levels to rise before bedtime, only for the levels to plummet shortly afterward, especially for those who are sensitive to blood sugar,” he tells Parade.

Related: Constantly Tired? It Could Be a Hidden Sign of This Health Problem, Experts Warn

Dr. Acosta explains that this crash can happen at the moment that the body is in its deepest recovery sleep, sharing, “Some individuals wake up feeling exhausted, not only due to a night of bad sleep, but because of a drop in blood sugar, which the body was forced to deal with during the night."

Dr. Alexa Mieses Malchuk, MD, MPH, FAAFP, a family practice physician at Geisinger, adds that the sugar in melatonin gummies can disrupt sleep, which can then lead to feeling tired the next day.

“Sugar at bedtime can interrupt sleep. Too much sugar in one’s diet overall can lead to energy ‘highs and lows’ that correlate with blood sugar fluctuations,” she explains.

Both doctors say that another reason why taking melatonin gummies can destroy energy levels is that they can negatively impact the body when taken long-term.

“Long-term melatonin supplementation can have unwanted effects on hormones and metabolism,” Dr. Malchuk says. Scientific research shows that taking melatonin every night long-term can increase the risk of heart failure, another risk to be aware of. 

Dr. Acosta emphasizes that taking melatonin disrupts the body’s natural circadian rhythm. “Every night, sleep is now tied to taking something else to feel ‘sleepy’ and the habit takes the place of the actual sleep hygiene task that addresses the underlying issue,” he says.

Instead of using melatonin as a Band-Aid, it’s important to get to the root cause of what’s causing your energy levels to be low. 

Related: Doctors Say This Is the Most Common Overlooked Cause of Afternoon Fatigue

When Can Taking Melatonin Be Helpful?

Melatonin isn’t meant to be taken every night. So when can it be helpful to take? Dr. Malchuk says that melatonin can be helpful to support sleep short-term in specific situations. One example of this is when you are traveling across time zones. 

In situations when it can be beneficial to take melatonin, it’s important that you get it from a reputable source. “Melatonin is a supplement, not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration," she explains. "There have been reports of low-quality supplements containing ingredients not listed on the label, which can be risky. Additionally, doses available over the counter are much higher than is actually recommended by physicians."

For this reason, it’s best to ask your doctor for a melatonin prescription rather than buying an over-the-counter melatonin supplement.

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Effective Ways To Feel More Energized

As both Dr. Malchuk and Dr. Acosta have made clear, taking a melatonin gummy every night isn’t an effective way to feel more energized. So, what works better?

“The one thing that works for patients with chronic sleeping problems that I have seen the most of is correcting sleep hygiene first. This includes a fixed bedtime and wake-up routine, avoiding screens before bed and waking up to natural light,” Dr. Acosta says.

This means that instead of turning to supplements to solve your sleep problems, it's better to focus on having good sleep hygiene habits in place. Also, understand that it may take some time for your body to naturally adapt to these beneficial changes; don’t give up too early.

Dr. Acosta adds that getting sunlight in the morning is one great way to support circadian rhythm, which no supplement can replace. Similarly, dimming the lights in the evening and avoiding screens can also help.

“If, despite your best efforts to maintain a healthy lifestyle, you still feel tired, talk with your family medicine physician. It’s important to look for other causes of fatigue like nutritional deficiencies, sleep apnea, hormonal issues and more,” Dr. Malchuk says.

What’s most important is to know that no one should go through life feeling exhausted all the time. It’s worth it to get to the root cause of your sleep issues, which may or may not include working with your healthcare provider. That way, you’ll be able to fully be present for all the moments you don’t want to miss.

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Related: 5 Sneaky Daytime Signs of Sleep Apnea, According to Doctors

Sources:

• Liu, L., Tao, H., Xu, J., et al. (2024). Quantity, Duration, Adherence, and the Reasons for Dietary Supplement Use among Adults: Results from the NHANES 2011-2018. Nutrients. 16(12):1830.
• Dr. Alexander Acosta, MD, primary care doctor with SonderCare.
• Dr. Alexa Mieses Malchuk, MD, MPH, FAAFP, family practice physician at Geisinger.
• Long-term use of melatonin supplements to support health may have negative health effects. American Heart Association.