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'Star Trek' Just Turned Into a Horror Movie, and Fans Are Divided

Sat, 08/01/2026 - 5:07pm

Star Trek has spent nearly 60 years promising that the universe makes sense, that no darkness is so deep that reason and a tricorder cannot eventually light it. "The Griffin Incident" might just break that promise, and for many longtime fans, that is the most unsettling thing about it.

The second episode of Strange New Worlds Season 4, which aired on Paramount+ on July 30, sends a landing party of La'an (Christina Chong), Spock (Ethan Peck) and a visiting Jim Kirk (Paul Wesley) onto the wreck of a lost Starfleet vessel called the Griffin. What they find is a floating nightmare. The crew has vanished, the logs of a woman named Rose Harper hint at something unspeakable, and the away team soon cannot trust the ship, one another, or their own eyes. Spock in particular is forced to confront his deepest fears about his half-human, half-Vulcan nature.

Critics reached fast for horror-movie touchstones. Den of Geek placed the hour alongside classic haunted-vessel stories and the real 1872 mystery of the Mary Celeste, the merchant ship found adrift with everything intact and no soul aboard. Fangirlish saw it as a direct homage to the 1997 space-horror film Event Horizon, down to a derelict ship that seems to prey on the minds of anyone who steps aboard. Reviewers at AIPT noted the episode is far more brutal than the franchise usually allows, with red and green blood spilled across a sickbay like a slasher set.

Related: 'Star Trek: Strange New Worlds' Producers Reveal What Turns Captain Pike Into a Puppet

SPOILER ALERT: The real divide, though, is over the ending. The episode never reveals what killed the Griffin, handing the case instead to a shadowy new Starfleet outfit called Division 12. For some critics at TrekCore, that refusal cuts against what Star Trek has always represented, a franchise built on the belief that the unknown can be explained by science. For others, the ambiguity is the point, and leaving the horror unresolved is exactly why it works.

Not every reaction was glowing. Trek Central praised the craft of the violence but argued the story pushed La'an into cruelty that felt out of character, and that Spock's fears retraced ground the show has covered before.

The episode fits a deliberate Season 4 design in which each installment adopts a different genre and tone, a run that also includes a Western, a black-hole story and an hour staged entirely with Jim Henson's Creature Shop puppets. Strange New Worlds is now in its second-to-last season, with a shortened final year expected in 2027, and the experiment is unfolding during Star Trek's 60th anniversary.

As a long-time Trek fan, I'm intrigued. "The Griffin Incident" shows a series willing to keep stretching the definition of a Star Trek episode right up to the end of its run, even when that means closing an hour without a single answer.

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Bobby Flay's Latest Photo With Brooke Williamson Has Fans Asking the Same Question

Sat, 08/01/2026 - 5:06pm

Bobby Flaymay have been headed out for lunch, but fans aren't buying that it was just any ordinary meal.

The celebrity chef shared a glamorous photo on Instagram Saturday, August 1, alongside girlfriendBrooke Williamson, simply captioning it, "Dressed for lunch 
" But judging by their outfits, followers quickly agreed the pair looked more red carpet-ready than restaurant-bound.

In the photo, Flay, 61, wears a classic black tuxedo while Williamson, 47, stuns in a strapless pink floral gown complete with elegant white opera gloves. The polished look immediately sent fans to the comments.

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“Black tie lunch?? Where. Glad to see you so happy,” one wrote.

“That's a fancy lunch!❀,” another noted.

A third asked, “Ok I’ll bite, where’s lunch?”

While Flay left the destination a mystery, Williamson gave fans a few more clues. She shared a carousel of photos from the outing a day earlier, revealing the pair had attended the 2026 Markel Magnolia Cup at the Goodwood Racecourse in England.

Alongside the same formal photo, Williamson posted another snap of the couple in a second set of outfits, this time wearing a brown-and-white polka-dot dress while Flay sported a blue checked suit. She also included a video of herself stopping to greet several dogs—without letting her floor-length gown get in the way. "Glorious Goodwood 🎠 @goodwood ✹," she captioned the post.

Of course, not every comment focused on the event itself. Some followers couldn't help but weigh in on a potential future wedding between the pair.

READ MORE: Chef Brooke Williamson Reunites With Ex-Husband Nick Roberts for Special Reason

“Perfect outfit for a wedding 👀 just saying,” one hinted.

“Kinda looks like a wedding đŸ˜łđŸŒ»đŸ˜,” said another.

The couple first sparked romance rumors in 2021 before later confirming their relationship. Last year, the pair even fueled engagement speculation after Flay gifted Williamson a diamond ring. He later clarified on his podcast that it wasn't an engagement ring, telling Williamson, "I gave you a ring as a sign of commitment
We're a permanent couple, let's put it that way."

Williamson, who won Top Chef Season 14, has since become a familiar face across Food Network, appearing on series including BBQ Brawl, Guy's Grocery Games, and Bobby's Triple Threat.

1993 Michael Jackson Song, Once Ranked Among the ‘Worst Music Videos,’ Featured One of Hollywood's Biggest Stars

Sat, 08/01/2026 - 4:56pm

A lot has been said about Michael Jackson since his unexpected passing in 2009, from behind-the-scenes stories about his iconic music to documentaries (for better or worse), biographical movies, and countless retrospectives on his extraordinary career.

Back in 1993, one of the most recognizable artists on Earth recorded a duet with the hottest comedian of the era, Eddie Murphy, who had also begun dabbling in music.

Flash forward to today, Jackson's recent blockbuster biopic has already sparked sequel plans, while one of Murphy’s most iconic roles remains voicing Donkey in the Shrek films.

For fans wanting to turn back the clock, there may be no music video that better captures peak '90s nostalgia than the long-forgotten track, "Whatzupwitu."

Related: 2000s Rock Hit, Written While ‘Naked’ and Sick, Remains a Classic 20 Years Later

Trashed at the time for its corny lyrics and, arguably, even worse visual effects, "Whatzupwitu" has since become something of a cult curiosity — though Murphy has never regretted making it.

Choosing to focus on the positives, he later joked, "There's not a lot of people that have footage of themselves dancing around in the clouds with Michael Jackson. I do have that forever."

Can't argue with that...

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Murphy co-wrote the song with producer Trenten Gumbs and presented it to Jackson after appearing in the King of Pop's "Remember the Time" music video — a favor Jackson later returned by recording "Whatzupwitu."

When asked years later how the collaboration came together, Murphy's answer was simple: "I asked, and he did it."

Jackson claimed to love the personal message of the song, despite its over-the-top presentation that was ultimately voted the third worst music video of all-time by MTV viewers on the program 25 Lame in 1999.

"Whatzupwitu" didn't crack the Billboard Hot 100 for a short stint, peaking at No. 74 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop, while its surreal music video developed a cult following despite never becoming a mainstream hit.

Macy's Garden-Inspired Tablecloth Will Transport You to the English Countryside, and It's on Sale for $21

Sat, 08/01/2026 - 4:45pm

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Few things make a home feel more inviting during the summer than a beautifully set table. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, gathering for Sunday brunch, or enjoying dinner al fresco, a fresh tablecloth is one of the easiest ways to dress up your dining space while protecting your table from everyday spills and messes. 

If your table could use a little seasonal update, the Laura Ashley Easy Care Pattern Tablecloth at Macy’s is a budget-friendly find worth considering. Right now, it’s on sale for just $21, down from $50 — that's 58% off. With this tablecloth you get the classic English countryside aesthetic the brand is known for plus a durable fabric that makes clean-up a breeze. 

Laura Ashley Easy Care Pattern Tablecloth, $21 (was $50) at Macy's

Courtesy of Macy's

Shop at Macy's

The tablecloth measures 60 inches long by 84 inches wide and fits tables that seat six to eight people, making it a great option for everything from everyday family dinners to summer entertaining. It's made from 100% polyester, so it's water- and stain-resistant which helps protect your table from spills and food splatters. Polyester is also naturally more wrinkle-resistant than cotton or linen, so you don’t have to iron it before laying it down on the table. 

The tablecloth is available in four patterns:lemon floral, branch toile, Charlotte, and oriental blossom, which will give your table a soft, garden-inspired look

Macy shoppers gave the tablecloth an impressive 4.8-star rating, with many praising both its pretty patterns and easy-care fabric. One shopper said it was “easy to care for,” sharing that they could simply toss it in the washer and dryer to keep it looking fresh. Another called the tablecloth “beautiful,” adding that it looked like “a dream” on their kitchen table. 

Shop More Deals

Related: Martha Stewart's $20 Lemon-Themed Kitchen Essentials Set Makes Any Space Look ‘Beautiful and Bright’

If you're looking for a simple way to refresh your dining table before summer ends, the Laura Ashley Easy Care Pattern Tablecloth is an affordable find that's both stylish and practical.  Head to Macy's while it's still on sale for just $21!

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.

1965 Rock Song, With 17-Year-Old Singer, is Still a Beloved Hit 61 Years Later

Sat, 08/01/2026 - 4:33pm

Some classic rock bands kicked off a landmark career at a young age, with major hits coming out while members of the band were still teenagers. That was the case with the Spencer Davis Band in the 1960s, with their first No. 1 hit, "Keep On Running," coming out in 1965.

At the time, the singer and keyboardist of the band, Steve Winwood, was only 17 years old, and he was already making his mark as a talented artist in the rising rock industry. The song "Keep On Running" was first written and recorded by artist Jackie Edwards in 1965, with the Spencer Davis Group's version coming out later the same year.

While Edwards' version wasn't a huge success, that wasn't the case with Winwood's band. When the Spencer Davis Group released the song as a single in November 1965 with the B-side "High Time Baby," the band's producer Chris Blackwell was just starting his label. He had to get a loan of money from Scala Brown Associates in order to produce and release "Keep On Running."

Thankfully, this was a risk worth taking. The song was a huge hit, taking the top spot on the U.K. Official Singles chart in 1966. It was the Spencer Davis Group's first No. 1 hit. "Keep On Running" also didn't do too badly in the United States, peaking at No. 76. For their first major single to gain any success, to chart at all in another country was an accomplishment.

Related: 1978 Rock Anthem, With 19-Year-Old Singer, Remains a Classic 48 Years Later

Now over half a century later, the song's legacy continues. In the years since its release, many prominent artists have covered the track, including John Alford, Tom Jones, and The Romantics, among others.

"Keep On Running" was also the start of a bunch of No. 1 hits for the Spencer Davis Group. The band would also work with Jackie Edwards on a few of their following releases. Their second No. 1 hit was 1966's "Somebody Help Me," which Edwards composed.

Related: Rock Legend Who Created One of the 'Greatest Albums of All Time' Turns 73

Why Your Pumpkin Plant Has Flowers but No Pumpkins

Sat, 08/01/2026 - 4:24pm

Whether you plan to grow pumpkins this fall to make pumpkin pie, jack-o'-lanterns or anything in between, it's important that you take good care of your pumpkin plants. Between spacing them out properly, making sure they get enough sunlight and keeping them safe from garden pests, there are so many things you need to do to keep this plant growing healthily.

That said, it's not uncommon for amateur pumpkin gardeners to face issues as fall approaches—and one common issue is the pumpkin plant growing flowers but not fruit. For anyone trying to grow a pumpkin, there's nothing more frustrating than the plant refusing to actually produce a pumpkin!

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But why do some pumpkin plants produce flowers but not fruit? To understand, Parade consulted with a bonafide pumpkin expert: Steve Jacobsen, farmer and owner of the Solvang Farmer Pumpkin Patch in Solvang, Calif, who shared six reasons why you might be experiencing this issue.

Curious to learn all six reasons as well as how to remedy them? Keep reading for Jacobsen's insights.

Related: The 5 Perennials You Should Stop Deadheading in Late Summer, According to a Gardener

Why Your Pumpkin Plant Has Flowers but No Pumpkins1. Insufficient pollination

Boris Lugovoi / Getty Images

"The primary reason a pumpkin plant would not have fruit is that the blooms were not pollinated," Jacobsen tells Parade.

Each pumpkin plant has both male and female flowers, he explains. Typically, male flowers bloom first, and female flowers bloom two weeks later (or even later, if weather is very hot), per Gardening Know How. If the female flowers on a pumpkin plant are not pollinated, then the plant will not grow any fruit.

In these cases, some gardeners recommend hand-pollinating the flowers. The blog A Modern Homestead recommends using a cotton swab to transfer some pollen from your plant's male flowers into the female blossom.

"Insects, primarily bees, are the mechanism for the flowers to be pollinated," adds Jacobsen. "That is why it is important to foster the local bee population."

2. Poor soil conditions

"Soil condition is the most important aspect of planting pumpkins," explains Jacobsen.

In general, the soil's temperature should be at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit, though some varieties of pumpkin require the soil to be at least 75 degrees Fahrenheit, according to Jacobsen.

Additionally, he says, "the soil must have nutrients for the pumpkin plant to thrive," it should be well-drained and it should be "moist enough that the soil may cling to a hand but not sopping wet."

Gardening Know How also notes that a surplus of nitrogen in the soil can cause a pumpkin plant to mostly grow male flowers, but not female flowers or pumpkins. And, as we know, a lack of female flowers on a pumpkin plant means no pumpkins. So, it's important to make sure your nitrogen levels aren't too high.

Related: Why Your Hydrangeas Are Wilting Even Though You’re Watering Them, According to Gardeners

3. Not enough sunlight or warm weather

"Pumpkins need heat to grow," explains Jacobsen. "Generally, plants will grow larger with temperatures above 80 degrees."

Furthermore, pumpkin plants need "a lot of sunshine," says Jacobsen, who recommends a minimum of eight hours of sunlight daily.

And per Gardening Know How, when temperatures fall below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, bees may stay out of shaded areas—so if your pumpkin plants are in the shade for too many hours each day, they may not get sufficiently pollinated, and may not produce fruit.

4. Low quality seeds

Sergii Kolesnikov / Getty Images

"Seed quality is very important," advises Jacobsen, who believes the best possible seeds to use are the ones you used last season, as an "older seed may not germinate."

To keep your seed haul safe until next year, Thistle Downs Farm recommends rinsing and then drying out your seeds on paper towels for at least three weeks. Then, store them in a paper envelope "that prevents it from being exposed to light, heat and moisture," says Jacobsen.

5. Garden pests

There is a wide variety of garden pests with an appetite for pumpkins, their seeds and their roots. Animals with the potential to harm your pumpkin plant include gophers, moles, ground squirrels, crows, aphids and cucumber beetles.

If you are having trouble growing pumpkins and you notice any of these critters nearby, you may want to look into humane ways to keep these animals away from your garden.

6. Not enough space

"In addition to having good soil, enough water and sunlight, good seed stock and quality pest control, each pumpkin plant must have room to grow," says Jacobsen. He notes that the seed package you bought should state the ideal spacing between the pumpkin plants it will yield.

"Good pumpkin yield, particularly with pumpkins over 20 pounds, require several feet in between each plant," he says. "For very large pumpkins, the general rule is one fruit per plant. Too many fruits on one plant may reduce the size and quality of the pumpkins the plant produces."

Related: Fertilizing These 9 Plants in Summer Can Do More Harm Than Good—These 5 Still Need It

Bright yellow pumpkin flower blooming on the vine.

Kriangkrai Thitimakorn / Getty Images

Why Your Pumpkin Plant Is Taking So Long to Grow

If you're worried your pumpkin plant is taking too long to grow, remember that some species naturally take longer than others—and these may need to be planted earlier in the year than you think.

"Some varieties will produce fruit in approximately 50 days," says Jacobsen. "Some other varieties, particularly the large ones, require over 120 days to produce the pumpkin desired." The seed package should state how many days you can expect your plant to take to reach maturation.

What Time Of Year Is Best to Plant Your Pumpkins?

It's vital to plant your pumpkins at the proper time of year. In most cases, your seed package should include guidance on when to plant.

However, if you want your pumpkins to be ready in time for Halloween, you should ideally plant them in late June; if you don't need them until Thanksgiving, you can plant them in mid-July, per A Modern Homestead. And if it's too hot outside then, you can start by planting your seeds inside, and then later transfer them to your pumpkin patch.

Up Next:

Related: The One Mistake That's Causing Your Basil to Flower Too Early, According to Gardeners

Sources:

'70s Rock Band, Behind One of the 'Greatest Albums of All Time,' Is Getting New Recognition 51 Years Later

Sat, 08/01/2026 - 4:07pm

More than five decades after the lineup that would create one of the greatest and best-selling albums of all time first came together, Fleetwood Mac is receiving another major honor.

Barnes & Noble has named Fleetwood Mac its Artist of the Month, celebrating the band's remarkable catalog by offering 10% off all of its albums throughout August. The bookseller called attention to the group's "timeless songs and classic records" that have made Fleetwood Mac "one of rock's most beloved bands."

Related: 1975 Fleetwood Mac Classic, Called Better Than ‘Rumours’ by Lindsey Buckingham, Dropped 51 Years Ago Today

The recognition arrives 51 years after Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks  joined Mick Fleetwood, John McVie and Christine McVie for the band's landmark 1975 self-titled album, a lineup that transformed Fleetwood Mac from a respected blues-rock act into one of the most successful bands in music history.

That era produced Rumours, the 1977 masterpiece that continues to define the group nearly half a century later.

The Album That Turned Heartbreak Into Rock History

Rumours remains one of the most celebrated albums ever released. Rolling Stone ranked it No. 7 on its list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time, writing that Fleetwood Mac "turned private turmoil into gleaming, melodic public art."

Related: Fleetwood Mac Icon Who Vanished at the Height of Fame Turns 78

The magazine noted that the emotional fallout from the band's intertwined relationships became the fuel for classics including "Go Your Own Way," "Dreams," "Don't Stop," "You Make Loving Fun," and "The Chain." Bassist John McVie later recalled the atmosphere surrounding the recording sessions, saying, "Parties going on all over the house. Amazing. Terrifying. Huge amounts of illicit materials 
 Days and nights would just go on and on."

Nicks also reflected on how the band's personal turmoil found its way into the songs. Comparing "Dreams" with Buckingham's "Go Your Own Way," she said, "Lindsey is saying go ahead and date other men and go live your crappy life, and [I'm] singing about the rain washing you clean 
 We were coming at it from opposite angles, but we were really saying the same exact thing."

The result was one of the defining albums in rock history, selling more than 40 million copies worldwide and earning the Grammy Award for Album of the Year.

Related: ‘Queen of Rock and Roll’ Just Named No. 1 Greatest Frontwoman in Rock History

A Legacy That Continues to Grow

Fleetwood Mac's influence has only grown with time. In 2025, Billboard ranked the group No. 6 on its list of the 50 Best Rock Bands, writing that the arrival of Buckingham and Nicks "set the stage for decades of intoxicating hits, intricate harmonies
 and intense interpersonal drama."

The publication argued that the band's romantic conflicts weren't just tabloid headlines but "the creative juice that fueled its critically and commercially massive career," highlighted by four Billboard 200 No. 1 albums, nine Hot 100 top 10 hits and Rumours, which later found a whole new generation of fans when "Dreams" returned to the charts after a viral TikTok.

Related: 1975 Fleetwood Mac Classic Is Suddenly Climbing the Charts 51 Years Later

The accolades extend beyond commercial success. BBC Music Magazine ranked Fleetwood Mac No. 13 among the Most Influential Bands of All Time, praising the group for transforming "internal romantic chaos into the gold standard of pop-rock songwriting." The publication added that Fleetwood Mac "proved that absolute emotional warfare could be polished into multi-platinum perfection," creating a sound that helped define 1970s arena rock.

Last year, as the 50th anniversary of the classic 1975 lineup approached, Fleetwood looked back on the moment Buckingham and Nicks joined the band with unmistakable affection.

"The marriage of Stevie and Lindsey, the marriage of coming into Fleetwood Mac when they did, it's all in the song. It's in the music that played on for so many years," Fleetwood told Rolling Stone. "It's magic then, it's magic now. What a thrill, what a thrill. Amen."

Related: The Tour That Made Them Superstars Almost Tore Them Apart: 'We Were Lucky to Get Out Alive'

Kate Middleton and Prince William's Surprise Family Outing Had Everyone Noticing One Unexpected Detail

Sat, 08/01/2026 - 4:06pm

Kate Middleton and Prince William made a surprise appearance today with their children! And the Wales family were giving fashion.

Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis all accompanied their parents to the Commonwealth Games, where they watched Jamaica v. Australia in the netball semi-final.

The Princess of Wales and Charlotte very cutely coordinated their outfits, with Kate in a white sweater with black stripes and 11-year-old Charlotte in a white dress by Guess that featured black stripes too.

Charlotte's dress also featured a polka dot print, bringing to mind the polka dot outfits that her grandmotherPrincess Diana was fond of. Kate herself is very fond of the timeless polka dot, which happens to have been one of the big trends for Spring/Summer 2026.

For today's Commonweath Appearance Kate also wore a forest green blazer by Ralph Lauren.

Related:This Is What Princess Charlotte’s New Title Will Be When Prince William Becomes King

Meanwhile 13-year-old Prince George and 8-year old Prince Louis were mini-mes of their father Prince William, with all three rocking the classic combo of shirts, belts, and pants.

Kate and William posted a picture of their family outing via the Prince and Princess of Wales's official Instagram account, writing, "Incredible atmosphere at the Commonwealth Games today.

"Watching world-class talent compete and seeing the power of sport to bring people together is truly special. Thank you to everyone involved for such a wonderful day."

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The last time we saw the Waleses step out as a family of five was in June for Trooping the Colour, King Charles III's birthday parade.

On that day Kate channelled Princess Diana in more ways than one—her baby blue coat dress by Catherine Walker was extremely similar to a pale aqua coat dress by the same designer that Diana wore to Easter service in 1987, while she accessorized with Diana's favourite three-strand pearl bracelet.

This meant that Kate and Charlotte had another adorable twinning moment, with Charlotte wearing an identical bracelet on her own wrist.

Related:Princess Diana’s Look at Fergie and Andrew’s Royal Wedding Predicted Summer 2026’s Biggest Trend

After waving to the crowds in a carriage procession, Kate, George, Charlotte, and Louis joined the rest of the royal family on the balcony of Buckingham Palace.

The Commonwealth Games are being held in Glasgow in Scotland this year. It's possible that after attending the games Kate and William will travel to Balmoral Castle, where the royal family spends part of their summer vacations. King Charles is expected to stay at Balmoral from mid to late August this year.

Queen Elizabeth II was on her traditional summer retreat at the sprawling estate in the Scottish Highlands when she died at the age of 96 September 8, 2022.

It has been said that the queen was always at her most "laid back" when she was at Balmoral.

But there was a member of the royal family whose opinion of the estate was very different.

Diana famously hated Balmoral.

She told her biographer Andrew Morton that the atmosphere in Balmoral would “drain [her] to nothing” and that going up there was “the most stressful time of the year.”

She went on, “The first couple of days, I’m frightfully chirpy when I get up there and everything’s wonderful. By the third day, they’re [the royal family] sapping me again. There are so many negative atmospheres.

“That house sucks one dry.”

Next up, Is the 'Balmoral Test' We Saw In Season 4 Of The Crown a Real Thing?

Country Star Jelly Roll Announces Break From Touring Following Divorce to 'Heal'

Sat, 08/01/2026 - 4:03pm

Between headlining tours, judging Star Search, making awards show appearances, and navigating a recent divorce following his dramatic weight loss, Jelly Roll has had little time to slow down. But now, it appears the 41-year-old country music superstar is finally stepping away from the road — at least for a little while.

During a July 28 concert at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City, Jelly Roll surprised fans by revealing plans to take a break from touring. While the “Need a Favor” singer didn’t specify exactly how long the hiatus will last, he said it could be one or even two years, citing “healing” as his reason for stepping back. 

“This has truly been a lifetime experience for me. In a couple of nights, I go to Colorado Springs and do my last show for a year or two,” Jelly Roll told fans during his show, according to Music Mayhem. “I’m fixing to take some time off and heal. I love you all so much. Thank you for the opportunity.” 

Among several social media clips, one video of Jelly Roll’s announcement has since surfaced on TikTok, showing the singer addressing the crowd as his No. 1 hit “Save Me” played in the background.  

@countryminute

Jelly Roll shocked fans over the weekend by announcing that he is taking at least a year, maybe two off from the road. While speaking to fans during the final dates of his stadium towards Post Malone, Jelly Roll thanked fans for the opportunity of a lifetime to perform. He said he was taking an extended break from the road in order to “heal.” Jelly Roll has been on a nonstop run of shows and appearances since the release of his album Beautifully Broken in 2024. We’re wishing him a quick recovery and hope he finds peace. Did you see Jelly Roll this year? #countrymusic #jellyroll

♬ original sound - Country Minute @summerknaak

#jellyroll #announcement #healing

♬ original sound - Summer Petersen

“...He deserves a break. He will come back stronger,” one person wrote, while another TikTok user added, “He deserves a break!”

A third person added, “I hope he finds happiness and peace.” 

Jelly Roll filed for divorce from Bunnie Xo in Tennessee in May of 2026 after nearly a decade of marriage. Their divorce became finalized on July 17, according to E! News, and the pair have since unfollowed each other on Instagram. 

The Salt Lake City stop marked the final date of Jelly Roll and Post Malone’s co-headlining 17-show The Big Ass Stadium Tour Part 2, which launched on June 9 at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, NC. The trek will pick up with dates in Asia in September, with Malone flying solo. According to Jelly Roll’s official website, he currently doesn’t have any shows on his calendar at this time. 

Parade reached out to Jelly Roll's agent for a statement.

Related: 1996 No. 1 Hit, With 14-Year-Old Singer, Became a Motivational Anthem

'80s Rock Legend Announces New Album 52 Years After Beginning Career

Sat, 08/01/2026 - 3:58pm

More than 50 years after beginning his professional music career, Geoff Downes is once again looking ahead.

The legendary keyboardist has announced Trauma, the sixth studio album from Downes Braide Association, also known as DBA, his acclaimed collaboration with singer, songwriter, and producer Chris Braide. The album is scheduled for release on Sept. 25 through Cherry Red Records.

According to the announcement, Trauma continues the cinematic, progressive sound that has defined the duo's previous releases while exploring themes of resilience, uncertainty, and hope. The record also features contributions from several notable guest musicians, including Marc Almond, David Longdon, and Andy Partridge, adding further depth to the album's expansive arrangements.

"In 'Trauma', our sixth studio album, we have dug deep into our respective layers and reservoirs of emotion, a theme of darkness followed by light — something we both could relate to," Downes said in a statement. "And in particular on this album, we have explored numerous diverse influences characterizing the contrast of these polarized emotions."

Downes and Braide have become one of progressive rock's most consistent modern partnerships.

"We both know and like what the other can do, so we just get on with it," Braide told Louder. "Making music together is like a holiday, honestly. There’s no need for explanation or discussion.”

Since launching the project in 2012, the pair has blended sophisticated songwriting with orchestral textures, lush harmonies, and progressive rock influences, earning praise from longtime fans of the genre. Trauma marks their sixth full-length studio effort together and follows 2023's Celestial Songs.

"We don't really write to a formula," Downes said in a 2023 interview. "We collect a number of ideas and then just see what happens. I don't think there's any special way that we approach it as such. It's more to do with the fact that, whatever grabs us, if we like it, then we carry on and we do it. I think that's really all there is to it. There is no pressure to write specifically for a vehicle as such."

For Downes, the album represents another milestone in an extraordinary career spanning 52 years.

He began his professional journey in the mid-1970s before rising to international prominence as a founding member of The Buggles, whose groundbreaking hit "Video Killed the Radio Star" famously became the first music video ever aired on MTV. Downes later joined Yes, contributing to Drama before helping form the supergroup Asia, whose self-titled 1982 debut became one of the biggest-selling albums of the decade thanks to hits including "Heat of the Moment" and "Only Time Will Tell."

Despite decades of success, Downes has remained remarkably prolific.

In addition to his ongoing work with Asia and various incarnations of Yes, he has continued composing, recording, and collaborating with artists across the progressive rock world. His versatility as a keyboardist and composer has made him one of the genre's most respected musicians, with a career that has continually evolved while remaining rooted in ambitious, melodic songwriting.

Fifty-two years after embarking on his professional career, Geoff Downes continues to embrace new creative challenges. With Trauma, the beloved rock legend is once again proving that his passion for progressive music remains as strong as ever.

Related: '70s Rock Legend Announces New Music 57 Years After Beginning Career

‘The Sopranos’ Star Vincent Pastore Dead at 80

Sat, 08/01/2026 - 3:57pm

Vincent Pastore — the veteran character actor who gave The Sopranos one of its most memorable and ultimately tragic mobsters — has passed away at 80. A neighbor found Pastore at his Bronx residence Saturday after he had not been heard from for three days, Deadline reported on Saturday, Aug. 1. The cause of his death has not been made public yet, but it remains an active investigation, per the outlet.

Tony Sirico, Steve Van Zandt, James Gandolfini, Michael Imperioli And Vincent Pastore.

(Photo By Getty Images)

Apart from an unforgettable role in HBO's Emmy-winning show, he was also a familiar face in reality TV, appearing on The Celebrity Apprentice, Celebrity Family Feud, Celebrity Fit Club, Dancing With the Stars and Shark Tank.

Pastore’s longtime manager, Bob McGowan, remembered the actor as someone whose generosity extended far beyond the screen. “Vinnie was a great guy, he would help anyone and was very charitable,” McGowan said in a statement published by Deadline.

Born July 14, 1946, Pastore celebrated his 80th birthday less than three weeks before his death. He served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War and later studied drama at Pace University, as per Togetherweserved.

Pastore spent years running nightclubs before pursuing performance professionally in his early 40s, as per Insidethelife. He once told Salon that a teacher warned him Hollywood would always see him as a wiseguy. Pastore embraced the typecasting, recognizing that those roles had opened doors for him.

Before audiences knew him as Big P----, Pastore had already begun carving out a place for himself in Hollywood. He appeared briefly in Goodfellas and Carlito’s Way before landing more prominent roles in The Jerky Boys: The Movie and HBO’s Gotti. The television film also brought him together with future The Sopranos cast members Tony Sirico, Frank Vincent and Dominic Chianese. Everything changed in 1999 when David Chase chose Pastore to play Salvatore Bonpensiero.

As one of Tony Soprano’s oldest friends, he belonged to the mob boss’s closest circle. That history made the revelation that he was secretly providing information to the FBI feel deeply personal. Pastore’s regular run ended when his character was killed in the Season 2 finale, but the loss continued to weigh on Tony for years. Despite his character's shocking exit, Pastore remained a fan favorite long after the show ended.

Pastore continued working steadily after leaving the HBO drama. His film credits included Mickey Blue Eyes, Riding in Cars with Boys, Shark Tale, Revolver, Money Train and Spinning Gold. On television, he appeared in Law & Order, One Life to Live, The Practice, Hawaii Five-0, Wu-Tang: An American Saga, and Yellowjackets, according to IMDb. He was also promoted to a series regular on Gravesend for its third season, according to Deadline. He later hosted The Wiseguy Show on SiriusXM.

Parents Often Rush This Part of Bedtime—but Child Psychologists Say It's the Most Important

Sat, 08/01/2026 - 3:55pm

Looking for a gentle parenting nighttime hack or the best bedtime routine for kids? It’s not super clear-cut or obvious. What works one night or for one child may not work for another. Plus, toddler sleep regression, emotional meltdowns at night and bedtime anxiety in children are real phenomena. 

You may also feel rushed to get your kids asleep. Maybe they aren’t getting ready like you asked. Or it’s late. Maybe you need time alone or want to spend it with your partner. Or you might know how grumpy they’ll be if they don’t fall asleep within the next 10 minutes. This is all to say that if you rush bedtime, you’re not alone, and the habit is an understandable one. 

At the same time, child psychologists encourage you to reconsider. Taking time with your child before bed is so valuable—and it can be done, even when one or both of you have a busy routine. Kids need that more than we realize, sometimes, and aren’t necessarily “just trying to stay up late” or “fighting going to bed.” Plus, believe it or not, taking that time with your child can help them fall asleep faster. 

Want to know more? Keep reading for explanations from child psychologists and child psychology bedtime tips, including the most important part of bedtime that parents often rush.

Related: Neurologists Warn This Nightly Habit Could Be Secretly Shrinking Your Brain

The Step We All Rush: Why Psychologists Prioritize ‘The Bedtime Chat’

“Bedtime” for kids can be a whole ordeal. You might offer to let them play “for just two more minutes.” You might have to push them to brush their teeth. The part that many parents rush—and that psychologists are begging you not to—is the “bedtime chat” right before lights out. But why, when sleeping is so important?

First, rushing the bedtime chat invites what’s called a “protest behavior.”

“When parents treat bedtime like a sprint, it causes an equal but opposite reaction in kids,” Dr. Carla Allan, PhD, the Division Chief of Psychology at Phoenix Children’s, tells Parade. “Our push to speed up triggers their push to slow down, increasing stalling behaviors as they desperately try to regain control.”

Second, and along those lines, this valuable time is when both parents and children can settle their nervous systems and open up.

“By slowing down, putting aside distractions and being present, parents create a regulated environment where children feel safe enough to share their thoughts,” explains Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, EdD, a psychologist and the author of The Dysregulated Kid. 

Related: 7 Habits of a ‘Deeply Feeling’ Child or Grandchild, According to Dr. Becky Kennedy

The Psychology of ‘Bedtime Stalling’: Why It’s Actually a Cry for Connection

Wondering why kids stall at bedtime? Get this: It’s how they ask for connection, not an act of defiance. 

“It is about control and fear,” Dr. Allan reveals. “When faced with the fear of the dark and the anxiety of separation, kids can stall to reclaim a sense of control and predictability over the environment.”

Dr. Capanna-Hodge agrees that kids are rarely trying to manipulate. They may need to regulate after a lot of sensory, social and emotional input from the day.

“Recognizing stalling as a need for stress relief and connection, rather than defiance, shifts the parent’s response from frustration to empathy, making the child feel seen and safe,” she adds.

Related: 7 Things a Trauma-Informed Psychologist Is Begging Parents and Grandparents To Stop Doing ASAP

6 Ways To Build ‘Connection Time’ Into a Busy Routine

Connecting with your child throughout the day “doesn’t have to be complicated,” according to Dr. Capanna-Hodge. She and Dr. Allan share how.

1. Shared mini-rituals

Spend five minutes interacting with your child. You could read them a nightly story, do some breathwork or reflect about their day. 

“A child’s nervous system begins to anticipate calm and connection, which reduces stress and builds trust,” Dr. Capanna-Hodge explains.

2. Prioritize early evening “special time” and specific praise

Since nighttime can be hard for kids, spend some of the evening connecting with them—even 10 to 15 minutes.

“Join them in an activity of their choosing,” Dr. Allan suggests. 

She encourages adding specific praise and compliments, too. Saying something like, “I love how you used your walking feet down the hallway,” for example, can create more positive conditions for bedtime.

3. Side-by-side activities 

Have a must-do task on your to-do list? Consider doing it with or next to your child.

“Doing small tasks together, such as folding laundry, prepping a meal or walking the dog, lets conversation happen naturally,” Dr. Capanna-Hodge states. “Being physically close without the pressure of face-to-face engagement encourages children to open up and practice co-regulation.”

4. Create a meaningful morning routine

You can eat breakfast together, sing songs on the way to school or take a quick morning walk outside.

“These small moments lay the foundation for a strong parent-child relationship while simultaneously supporting a regular morning wake time,” Dr. Capanna-Hodge explains. 

5. Daily check-ins

Every day, ask your child questions like, “What was the best part of your day?” or “What felt tricky today?” Dr. Capanna-Hodge explains that this helps children practice expressing their feelings. 

“Even brief, consistent moments like this create long-term capacity for emotional regulation and strengthen connection,” she adds.

6. Build calm, low-stimulation connection into the bedtime routine

For 30 to 60 minutes before lights out, connect with your child without screens. You might cuddle, read a favorite book or give a gentle hug. 

“Consistent, quiet bedtime routines signal safety and security and help your child comfortably self-soothe and drift off to sleep,” Dr. Allan explains.

Manipulation vs. Emotional Need: How To Tell the Difference

Dr. Allan says that “bedtime stalling is not malicious manipulation,” but a bid for connection.

If it seems to be a behavioral concern that needs addressing, she encourages setting limits with a “bedtime pass.”

“The evidence-based ‘bedtime pass’ works beautifully by giving your child a physical coupon to exchange for one trip out of bed for a hug or water,” she shares. “If tantrums persist, gradual approaches, like graduated extinction (checking in at progressively longer intervals), are proven, safe ways to teach self-soothing.”

One way to tell the difference is by assessing their nervous system. Signs of an unregulated nervous system, according to Dr. Capanna-Hodge, include appearing overstimulated, fidgeting, pacing, repetitive requests and sudden shifts in energy.

“When approached with calm presence instead of punishment or pressure, a child’s true needs become clear,” she continues. 

Related: 9 Things ‘Slow-Living’ Grandparents Do Differently, According to Child Psychologists

The Counter-Intuitive Truth: Slowing Down Makes Them Sleep Faster

Wondering how to get kids to sleep faster? As explained, it’s about slowing down rather than speeding up. Giving kids predictability, safety and time to chat before bed helps them feel less rushed, vulnerable and powerless.

“Sleep is a biological process, and you cannot force a child to fall asleep; you can only create the conditions for it to happen,” Dr. Allan explains. “When a bedtime routine is chaotic or rushed, it invites a power struggle that interferes with winding down.”

Dr. Capanna-Hodge explains that slowing down at bedtime signals safety and allows their parasympathetic nervous system to engage. Feelings of regulation and connection can also cause their cortisol levels to drop, in which they feel less stressed and can shift into sleep mode more quickly. 

The “bedtime chat” doesn’t have to be super deep or long, for what it’s worth. In reality, Dr. Allan says it’s about “establishing a brief, highly predictable routine that reduces friction.” That predictability and feeling of control help them “let go” and transition to sleep. Then, they can more easily and quickly catch those zzzs
 and you can, too.

Up Next:

Related: Psychologist Warns: 9 Common Phrases Children Say That Parents Often Misunderstand

Sources:

Nancy Guthrie Update: Sheriff Sets the Record Straight About Her Family 6 Months Later

Sat, 08/01/2026 - 3:51pm

Six months after Today co-host Savannah Guthrie’s mother, Nancy Guthrie, was reported missing from her Tucson home, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos says the investigation remains fully active, even as answers continue to elude his department.

Sheriff Chris Nanos Says Investigation Remains Active

In a video update marking the six-month milestone, Nanos described a wide-ranging effort still underway. "It's very active," he said in a video shared by the official handle of the Pima County Sheriff's Department on Saturday, August 1.

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"We've done a lot of work, but we still have more." He pointed to ongoing DNA analysis being coordinated across labs nationwide, along with forensic review of thousands of videos and photos, and tens of thousands of tips still being investigated by his team.

Why the Department Released the Ransom Notes View this post on Instagram

Nanos addressed the department's decision to release two ransom notes tied to the case, a move he said came down to accuracy and hope. "People have been, media has covered some of this, and we just saw what was being said and felt like we need to put something out that's really accurate," he said.

He added that investigators believe specific language or writing style in the notes could jog someone's memory.

"I think anybody who reads them, my investigators, we look at it, and clearly there's things in there that are very concerning to our investigative team," Nanos said. He confirmed the Guthrie family was informed before the notes were made public.

Sheriff Addresses Search Warrants and Family's Status

Nanos was direct in clarifying confusion around individuals who have been interviewed or had search warrants served during the investigation. "That doesn't mean those individuals are cleared," he said.

"It just means that we met with them because we felt like there was a need." He stressed that the Guthrie family has never been a suspect. "The Guthrie family is not and have not been suspects in this investigation," he said. "They are victims, victims of a very horrific crime."

Sheriff's Message to the Public L: Nancy Guthrie, R: Savannah Guthrie

NBC Universal

Nanos said his department's relationship with the FBI, through the Southern Arizona Violent Crime Task Force, remains strong after decades of partnership.

He explained the department opted for a media release over a press conference, noting that press conferences are typically reserved for moments when investigators need help with one specific piece of information. His message to the community was direct. "We think somebody knows something," he said. "We need that phone call."

Anyone with information is asked to call the FBI tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI, the Pima County Sheriff's Department tip line at 520-351-4900, or 911.

1983 Rock Song, Lasting Nearly 20 Minutes, Is Still an Underground Hit 43 Years Later

Sat, 08/01/2026 - 3:26pm

A nearly 20-minute rock song from 1983 has kept its place among progressive rock fans more than four decades after its release. 

“The Last Human Gateway,” the epic opening track by British neo-prog band IQ, never became a mainstream hit, but it helped establish the group and remains a key part of its story.

Released on IQ’s debut album, Tales from the Lush Attic, the song fills almost an entire side of the original vinyl record. Its long form, changing tempos and detailed keyboard and guitar work made it very different from the shorter rock songs dominating much of the music scene at the time.

Mike Holmes, Tim Esau, Peter Nicholls, Neil Durant and Paul Cook of British neo-progressive rock group IQ, taken on November 12, 2011.

Photo by Will Ireland/Prog Magazine/Future via Getty Images/Future via Getty Images

The song emerged during a difficult period for progressive rock. By the early 1980s, the style linked with bands such as Genesis and Yes was no longer seen as fashionable. Punk had changed the mood of British music, while many record labels were unwilling to sign new progressive rock acts.

“Prog was such a dirty word then,” says Holmes, according to Louder Sound. “It really wasn’t something you admitted liking in polite company.”

IQ began taking shape after guitarist Mike Holmes and keyboard player Martin Orford connected through their shared interest in progressive rock. Holmes had met Peter Nicholls outside a Genesis concert at Stafford’s Bingley Hall in 1976. The two teenagers began exchanging letters and bootlegs, eventually helping form the musical partnership that led to IQ.

By 1981, the band decided that London was the place to build a career. Holmes, Orford, Nicholls and bassist Tim Esau shared a two-bedroom flat in Kensal Green, while drummer Paul Cook remained outside London for a time.

The band survived on very little money and played small venues, including the Marquee in Soho. Their live shows carried some of the energy of the punk era, even though their music remained rooted in progressive rock.

“The music wasn’t all that punky,” admits Holmes, “but the attitude was onstage. We regularly had stage invasions at the Marquee.”

By early 1983, IQ was part of a growing group of British bands helping revive progressive rock. Marillion, Pallas, Pendragon and Twelfth Night were also gaining attention. Marillion’s Script For A Jester’s Tear, released in March that year, quickly became one of the major releases of the new movement.

IQ, however, struggled to find a record label.

“I remember being told there was no room for another major label prog band,” says Orford, “so we might as well forget being signed.”

Recording Tales from the Lush Attic was rushed. IQ had only four days for recording and one day for mixing. Even “The Last Human Gateway” was not completely finished when the band entered the studio.

The track also became a source of tension between Holmes and Orford.

“I always had it in my head that Gateway should have a big reprise of the Mellotron flute intro at the end,” says Holmes, “and Martin really didn’t want that.”

Despite the arguments and limited studio time, IQ completed the album. The original track listing gives “The Last Human Gateway” a running time of 19:57, while the supplied description by Spotify places it at 19:59 close enough to make it one of the album’s defining long-form pieces.

The rest of the record mixed shorter and longer songs, including “Through The Corridors,” “Awake and Nervous,” the playful “My Baby Treats Me Right 'Cos I'm A Hard Lovin' Man All Night Long” and the 13-minute “The Enemy Smacks.”

The album was released independently in September 1983. Its first copies even appeared with plain sleeves because the artwork was not ready. Later, Nicholls’ artwork became an important part of the album’s identity.

More than 40 years later, IQ’s debut remains important to the neo-prog story. The band never achieved major commercial success, but it built a loyal audience that continued to grow across generations.

“I have to say they did a remarkable job,” says Orford, who retired from music in 2007. “They made it what it should have been in the first place. It now has a production that matches the songwriting. So the story has a happy ending, really.”

Related: '90s Rock Band Is Suddenly Climbing the Charts 34 Years After Forming

Billy Corgan’s 10-Year-Old Son Is Low-Key the Best Part of Lollapalooza So Far

Sat, 08/01/2026 - 3:19pm

Lollapalooza 2026 is packed with performances by mega-stars.Tate McRae, Olivia Dean, Charli XCX, Sombr, Zara Larson, and Lorde are just a few of the top acts on tap for this year’s four-day music festival at Chicago’s Grant Park. Even though the stellar lineup is the draw, The Smashing Pumpkins’ frontman Billy Corgan’s 10-year-old son, Augustus Juppiter Corgan, stole the show.

As The Smashing Pumpkins played their iconic ‘90s rock anthem ‘Tonight, Tonight’ on stage, Corgan’s couldn’t-be-cuter kiddo enjoyed the weather from the audience. 

The musician recently posted a video on Instagram of his son doing what kids do best
dancing in the rain.

Corgan had a proud papa moment, captioning his post, “Couldn’t help but share. My son Augustus when the rain started coming down during Tonight Tonight. What a charmer.” And yes, he certainly is. Adorable Augustus dances, and when (presumably) his mother, Chloe Mendel, asks, “Let’s hear you sing,” the little boy hams it up for the camera. 

View this post on Instagram Who are Billy Corgan’s children?

The Smashing Pumpkins singer has three children with his wife Chloe: Augustus, Philomena Clementine Corgan (born in 2018), and Juno Delphine Corgan (born in 2025). 

The recent Lollapalooza performance wasn't the first time Augustus has rocked to dad’s legendary ‘Tonight, Tonight’ track. Last year, Mendel posted a special message (on Instagram) to her eldest kiddo for his ninth birthday. Along with writing, “Our first born is 9 years old! Happy birthday dear Augustus,” she shared a video of her son as a toddler dancing barefoot in his bedroom to the song. 

Back in 2018, Corgan talked candidly toPEOPLEabout how then-two-year-old Augustus felt about The Smashing Pumpkins and touring with his famous family: “He watches my music videos every day now, so I’m excited to see how he adapts to tour buses and arenas full of people.” Corgan continued, “My guess is he’ll very much want to come on stage to say hello or sing.”

This also isn't the first time the 10-year-old has made headlines. In 2024, a car crashed through the window of Corgan’s tea shop Madame Zuzu's and nearly hit the young boy and his grandmother. 

At the time, Mendel posted a statement on Instagram, writing, “This afternoon at Madame Zuzu’s a car (in circumstances which remain under investigation) drove over the curb and into Madame Zuzu’s, crashing through the window and sadly injuring one person—my mother, Jenny; who was spending the day and lunching with my son Augustus. Thankfully, he was able to leap out of the way and was not injured.”

Ghost Just Released a Limited Edition Collab With This ‘80s Chocolate Beverage 

Sat, 08/01/2026 - 3:15pm

Some childhood favorites never really disappear - they just get a protein upgrade.

Ghost is giving fitness fans a nostalgic throwback with real gains attached. The supplement brand has teamed up with chocolate drink Yoo-hoo for a limited-edition ready-to-drink protein beverage, and fans wasted no time getting their hands on it.

The collaboration combines Yoo-hoo's signature chocolate flavor with Ghost's ultra-filtered milk protein formula, delivering 25 grams of protein, 120 calories, just 2 grams of sugar, and a lactose-free recipe designed for on-the-go sipping.

According to Ghost, the first online release sold out in just 20 minutes. "Sold out in 20 mins đŸ€Ż," the company wrote on Instagram after the launch, as excited fans flooded the comments hoping for another chance to buy the drink.

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Not everyone was thrilled, however. Some shoppers pointed out that shipping costs nearly rivaled the price of the product itself. In response, Ghost acknowledged the issue, explaining that the company rarely ships beverages directly because of the high cost of sending full cases. A representative added that the team is working on a way to "make things right" for customers who ordered through the website.

The good news? If you missed the online drop, you may not have to wait long. Ghost says the Yoo-hoo protein drink is expected to begin rolling out to Walmart stores nationwide within the next week, making it much easier (and likely cheaper) to grab a case.

For anyone who grew up reaching for a cold Yoo-hoo after school, this collaboration serves up a nostalgic blast from the past with a decidedly healthier twist. And judging by the lightning-fast sellout, plenty of fans are ready to drink to that.

Heavy Metal Legend Who Helped Define a Generation of 2000s Rock Turns 58

Sat, 08/01/2026 - 3:02pm

Dan Donegan, founding guitarist and primary songwriter for Disturbed, turns 58 today, Aug. 1. As the riff machine behind some of the heavy metal/nu metal band’s biggest hits—including “Down With the Sickness,” “Stricken,” and “Inside the Fire"—Donegan helped create the sonic blueprint for hard rock in the 2000s.

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Born Daniel Joseph Donegan in Oak Lawn, Illinois, the self-taught guitar master worked in construction before taking to the stage, wearing a short-hair wig to hide his long locks from his dad. In the ’80s, he played in Vandal, a glam metal outfit, before joining Loudmouth. His calling came in 1994, when he, Steve Kmak, Mike Wengren, and original singer Erich Awalt formed Brawl, which became Disturbed two years later with David Draiman on vocals.

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In 2000, Disturbed released its debut album, The Sickness. Featuring hits including “Voices,” “Stupify,” and, of course, the band’s biggest track, “Down With the Sickness,” the album shot the band to global rock stardom.

As the band’s sole guitarist and music architect, Donegan’s signature is all over their sick, monster track: He wrote the iconic driving drop-C guitar riff, synced with Wengren’s drums for the famous bounce-groove, and helped shape the album’s sound alongside producer Johnny K.

“[Writing’s] all I ever wanted to do,” Donegan recently told GHS Strings, per Metal Injection. “I was kind of a quiet kid; it was an escape for me, and it just allowed me to express myself. If I felt aggression or I felt like writing a heavier riff, or I felt just more somber and just moody and vibey.”

But his journey in music hasn’t been easy. Donegan has faced several personal and emotional obstacles throughout his life and career. He has spoken openly about supporting his brother through addiction. He recently said goodbye to his father, Joe Donegan, who died in 2024. And he even survived a severe car accidentback in January.

Totaling his car against a concrete barrier at 80 miles per hour, Donegan miraculously walked away without life-threatening injuries, but the trauma of the event still left its mark.

“We all go through tough times and struggles, whether it be depression or addiction or sadness or losing a loved one or going through a breakup or having a rough time at work or at school or whatever you’re going through,” he said in the same GHS Strings chat. “Just trying to have a positive outcome to be able to fight through those tough times [is huge].”

The accident occurred during one of the band’s rare breaks from touring, allowing Donegan plenty of time to rest and recover from the shock.

“As you may know, [we 're doing] just two shows. That’s all we’re doing this whole year. Obviously, last year was the big 25th-anniversary tour [in honor of 2000’s The Sickness], and we were in Europe. We finished up in Europe last fall, so we've been off this whole time. Everybody's taking some downtime, some family time, some personal things in our lives and finding our own ways to stay busy,” he said in an Instagram live video in June, per Loudwire.

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The two shows—a headline show at the Inkcarceration Festival in Ohio and a special performance at the Hard Rock Casino in Florida—went down last month. But the time off is well deserved.

Since their founding, Disturbed has released eight studio albums, along with two live albums, and one compilation album. Their last studio album, Divisive, arrived in 2022, but they have since put out new music, including “I Will Not Break” in 2025, which became the 13th No. 1 on the Mainstream Rock chart for the band.

On that same chart, Disturbed's other No. 1s include “Land of Confusion,” “Inside the Fire,” “No More,” “Hey You,” and their Simon & Garfunkel cover, “The Sound of Silence.” Not to mention, the band has five No. 1 albums on theBillboard 200, including Immortalized in 2015 and Ten Thousand Fists in 2005, both of which charted for nearly 100 weeks apiece. Their debut, The Sickness, peaked at No. 29 on the survey, with their latest release, Divisive, climbing to No. 13.

“Everything we write is always so personal,” Donegan told GHS Strings. “We’ve probably written close to a couple of hundred songs over our career.”

Donegan added that “The Light” is one of his favorites, saying, “A lot of times we like to take darker subject matter and spin a positive outcome on it, for encouragement and empowerment, and just a reminder that we all go through different things in our lives.”

He continued, “‘The Light’ always sends a positive message. The big catchphrase in that song is, ‘Sometimes darkness can show you the light.’ Sometimes you need those dark times in life to be able to dig deep, find that strength to find the light again, to be able to power through it and get through it.”

Behind the scenes, Donegan has confirmed that Disturbed has already completed their next full-length project. The release date is still to be determined, but frontman Draiman revealed in June that fans are in for a surprise with the new LP, calling the songs “diverse, fresh, and powerful,” on X.  

Meanwhile, the band is promoting their recent segue into the beverage industry, with their Molten line of THC-infused sodas.

Three decades after chasing his dream in Chicago nightclubs, then exploding onto rock radio, Donegan remains one of modern metal’s most influential guitarists and shows no signs of slowing down. His riffs will continue to bridge crushing metal with mainstream accessibility. It’s a legacy built on refusing to color inside the lines, or as he once put it: “There are no boundaries in music.”

Related: 1980s Metal Legends Confirm First New Album in 4 Years Is on the Way

'90s Rock Legend and Lead Singer of Beloved Rock Band Turns 64

Sat, 08/01/2026 - 3:00pm

More than three decades after singing about wanting to become a rock star, one of the '90s most recognizable voices is celebrating another birthday.

Adam Duritz, lead singer and principal songwriter of Counting Crows, turns 62 on Saturday, Aug. 1. His personal lyrics and unmistakable delivery helped the group become one of the most successful rock bands to emerge during the decade.

Duritz was born in Baltimore in 1964, but his family moved several times throughout his childhood before settling in Berkeley, Calif., when he was 10. While attending the University of California, Davis, he scribbled a poem for his sister in a chemistry notebook, brought it to a piano and turned it into the first song he had ever written.

After years of performing in the Bay Area, Duritz and guitarist David Bryson formed Counting Crows as an acoustic duo in 1991. The lineup soon expanded and released its debut album, August and Everything After, in 1993.

The album introduced listeners to "Mr. Jones," "Round Here" and Duritz's deeply personal style of songwriting. It eventually went seven-times platinum in the United States, while its success turned the frontman into one of the era's most recognizable musicians.

Counting Crows followed it with the No. 1 album Recovering the Satellites, which included "A Long December." Years later, the group reached another generation with "Accidentally in Love" from Shrek 2, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song.

Despite the attention surrounding the group's early success, Duritz has remained focused on writing and performing. "I think the public must love us because it's been almost 30 years," he told GRAMMY.com in 2021.

More than 30 years after Counting Crows' debut, Duritz is still leading the group. The band released Butter Miracle, The Complete Sweets! in 2025, its first full-length studio album in 11 years, and spent much of 2026 performing across Australia, New Zealand and Europe.

Counting Crows also has upcoming shows at the Hollywood Bowl on Aug. 7 and 8, giving Duritz little time away from the stage after his birthday. At 62, the singer continues to build on a career that began with a college poem and grew into decades of music that listeners still return to.

Related: '70s Rock Legend and Member of Supergroup Turns 71

‘Game of Thrones’ Star, Former GQ ‘Man of the Year’ Turns 47

Sat, 08/01/2026 - 2:14pm

Happy birthday to Jason Momoa! The actor turned 47 on August 1. 

Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, in 1979, Momoa (whose full name is Joseph Jason Namakaeha Momoa) was raised by his mother in Norwalk, Iowa, following his parents' divorce. After graduating from Norwalk High School, the then-would-be actor moved back to Hawaii, where he started a modeling career. 

Supposedly, in 1999, the hunky Hawaiian heartthrob was named Model of the Year. As it turns out, this was a fictitious title that Momoa made up to score points with a casting director. But that’s not all. He also manufactured an imaginary modeling experience working for some of the leading luxury brands just to get his foot in the door. That said, his bluff seemed to work, and he landed the role of Jason Ioane on Baywatch: Hawaii.

The actor shared his audition story with Today’sWillie Geist, explaining the origin of his now-famous fib: “You have to have a resume. I’m like, ‘What am I gonna tell them?’ I don’t have anything. I’m like, ‘I worked on Colorado Trail Crew.’ Like there’s nothing I can put on my resume. So I was like, ‘Yeah, I’ve done Louis Vuitton. I did some Gucci.’ “

He added, “My girlfriend at the time was with, she was like a pageant thing. And I took some photos and did a little pageant thing for them, and I’m like, ‘Yeah, I was in it, handed out the crowns.” 

Not one to play it coy, Momoa continued, “And it worked. I just have no fear.”

Jason Momoa attends the 'Game Of Thrones' Season 8 NY Premiere on April 3, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic for HBO) Getty Images

Even though the actor was never officially ‘Model of the Year,’ one A-lister was pulling for Momoa to be People’s ‘Sexiest Man Alive’ (which sadly, he also has never won). In 2020, the former ‘Sexiest Man Alive’ musician John Legendsaid, “Going by my Twitter mentions when I was named who people said should have been picked over me, I got a lot of Jason Momoa. That’s the one person that stood out in the Twitter feedback.”

Even though he didn’t win People’s title, Momoa was named GQ Australia’s ‘Man of the Year’ in 2019. 

Of course, his breakthrough Baywatch: Hawaii role was just the first in a long series of credits. Things have changed since his early years in Hawaii. Momoa no longer has to make up faux awards just to score parts. Over his career, the 47-year-old has starred in major movie blockbusters such as Aquaman, Fast X, Supergirl, Dune, The Wrecking Crew, The Flash, and Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. 

Along with feature films, Momoa has also made his mark on the small screen, starring in Game of Thrones as well as Apple TV’s See and Chief of War (which he also co-created, co-wrote, and executive produced). 

Nakoa-Wolf Momoa, Jason Momoa, Lola Iolani Momoa attend the 'Supergirl' UK Sneak peek Event at Cineworld Leicester Square on June 18, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Karwai Tang/WireImage) Getty Images

Momoa hasn’t just had career success. He’s also the father to two children, with ex Lisa Bonet. Daughter Lola Iolani Momoa was born in 2007, and son Nakoa-Wolf Manakauapo Namakaeha Momoa was born in 2008. 

Jason Momoa and Adria Arjona attend the 'Supergirl' UK Sneak Peak Event at Cineworld Leicester Square on June 18, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by John Phillips/Getty Images)

The actor is currently dating Adria Arjona. The pair met while co-starring in the Netflix film Sweet Girl and went pubic with their romance in 2024. Arjona posted a heartfelt birthday wish to Momoa on her Instagram Stories, sharing a pic of the pair cuddling and the message, “Happy birthday to my other half, love you so much mi amor.”

The Soup That Eats Like a Meal Is Now Offering Meals

Sat, 08/01/2026 - 2:04pm

Campbell's Chunky has spent decades convincing people its soup "eats like a meal." Now the brand is taking that slogan one step further.

For the first time ever, Campbell's Chunky is heading to the freezer aisle with a new hearty lineup of protein-packed frozen meals inspired by some of its most popular soup flavors.

Options span from comfort-food classics to delectable mashups, including Beefy Pasta with Stroganoff Sauce, Buffalo-Style Chicken Mac and Cheese, Bacon Cheeseburger Mac & Cheese, Chili Mac, Country Fried Chicken with Mashed Potatoes, Meat Lovers' Lasagna, Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese, and Cheesy Loaded Potato Bowl with Steak and Bacon.

Each bowl contains up to 28 grams of protein, making them convenient for shoppers looking for a meal without much prep. "Chunky has always stood for bold flavor and real satisfaction in a soup that eats like a meal," Chunky's frozen brand manager, Gunner Siverly, told Food Dive. "With Chunky Frozen Bowls, we're bringing that same fill-you-up promise to the freezer aisle."

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The move also taps into one of the biggest trends in grocery stores right now: protein. According to the International Food Information Council, about 70% of Americans say they're trying to eat more protein than they were just a few years ago, making high-protein convenience meals increasingly popular. This shift is fueled in part by the rise of GLP-1 medications, which often require users to prioritize protein intake to help fill nutritional gaps.

Rather than introducing an entirely new brand, Campbell's is expanding one shoppers already know and love, following a growing industry trend of bringing familiar favorites into new sections of the grocery store.

If you've ever wished your favorite bowl of Chunky Soup came in a fork-friendly version, your freezer may just have exactly what you crave.

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