Parade
The Soup That Eats Like a Meal Is Now Offering Meals
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."
View this post on InstagramThe 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.
Walmart's 'Soft' 7-Piece Comforter Set Brings a 'Clean and Cozy Look' to Any Room
Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
If you've been wanting to give your room an easy and affordable upgrade before the end of summer, Walmart's bestselling Catami 7-Piece Comforter Set delivers a full bedding refresh in one neat package. The top-rated set comes with everything you need to spruce up your sleep space, and it's on sale for nearly 45% off for a limited time.
Right now, the queen-sized bedding is currently marked down to just $40 in a gorgeous sage green color that's perfect for summer. It's also available in several other color options, including beige, blue gray, clay pink, and deep brown, ranging from $50 to $60. You can shop it in full, king, and California king sizes as well, although availability varies depending on color.
Catami 7-Piece Comforter Set, $40 (was $72) at Walmart Shop at WalmartThe stylish set comes with a comforter, a flat sheet, a fitted sheet, two pillowcases, and two pillow shams, providing an elegant, coordinated look that will spruce up any room. Made of soft polyester material, the comforter is plush, pillowy, and lightweight enough for all seasons. The fabric is Oeko-Tex certified, making it a safe and reliable option for everyday use.
The cloud-like comforter features a sleek quilted design that complements any style of decor. There's a handy hidden pocket on the flat sheet that's ideal for stashing remotes, magazines, and other items. It's also easy to care for, thanks to the machine-washable design. To keep the bedding set fresh, wash it in cold water on a gentle cycle, and tumble dry it on low heat.
The seven-piece comforter set has earned high praise from Walmart shoppers. One reviewer called it "very elegant," while another said the fabric is "so soft" and "lightweight." Others said it brings a "clean and cozy look to any room," with one writing, "It's comfortable, looks nice, and feels durable enough for everyday use."
Shop More Deals:- IGI Full/Queen Comforter, $25 (was $37) at Walmart
- Sonive Washed Duvet Cover Set, $25 (was $43) at Walmart
- Emonia Cooling Comforter, $40 (was $89) at Walmart
If you're looking for a cute and comfy bedding set to revamp your room, this seven-piece comforter set is worth considering. It's soft, easy to maintain, and available in a range of versatile colors. Grab one while it's still on sale for nearly 45% off at Walmart.
Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.
Star Trek's Lost Original Enterprise Model Is Finally Back Home
A piece of Star Trek history that vanished during the making of a movie almost 50 years ago resurfaced under the convention lights of San Diego Comic-Con, restored and on public display for the first time in decades.
The 33-inch model of the USS Enterprise, the ship that opened every episode of "Star Trek: The Original Series," was built in 1964 by model maker Richard Datin Jr. from a design by production artist Matt Jefferies. It filmed the effects shots for the series' original pilot, "The Cage," handled the fly-by shots in the opening credits, and served as the prototype for the 11-foot studio miniature now at the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum. For several years it sat on the desk of Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry, until he loaned it out for production work on "Star Trek: The Motion Picture" in the late 1970s. It never came back.
For nearly 45 years, nobody knew where it went. Then in October 2023, the model surfaced in an eBay listing with an opening bid of $1,000. The sellers pulled the listing almost immediately and brought the piece to Heritage Auctions for authentication. Executive vice president Joe Maddalena said he and a colleague knew instantly it was the genuine article.
Related: At 86, Patrick Stewart Reveals He's Not Done With Star Trek
In April 2024, Heritage facilitated the model's return to Eugene "Rod" Roddenberry Jr., Gene Roddenberry's son and CEO of Roddenberry Entertainment. "After five decades, I'm thrilled that someone happened upon this historic model of the USS Enterprise," Roddenberry said at the time. "I remember how it used to adorn my dad's desk."
Rather than keep the ship as a private keepsake, Roddenberry committed it to restoration and public display, with hopes it eventually lands in a museum. Speaking at Comic-Con this year, during Star Trek's 60th anniversary, he described the model in terms that go beyond any single character in the franchise. "It was the first character of Star Trek. Before Spock, before Kirk, before any of them," he said. "This is the birth of Star Trek."
The restoration turned up its own surprises. Layers of old glue and paint from past repairs had to be carefully removed, and the model had sustained damage from falls over the decades. Roddenberry said one detail stood out most: the ship's smooth curves, long assumed to be molded plastic, are carved wood.
The restored Enterprise was on view at the Paramount+ Lodge during Comic-Con, giving fans an up close look at the model that started it all, timed to Roddenberry's introduction of the franchise's 60th anniversary Hall H panel. Roddenberry Entertainment has been documenting the restoration on its YouTube series "Inside the Roddenberry Archive," continuing the same spirit of preservation the franchise has always embraced.
'70s Rock Legend and Member of Supergroup Turns 71
He recorded his first album at 15 and wrote two of UFO's best-known songs just a few years later.
Michael Schenker turned 71 on Jan. 10, celebrating another birthday after more than five decades of influential guitar work. Best known for his time with Scorpions, UFO and the Michael Schenker Group, the German musician was also a member of the short-lived supergroup Contraband.
Schenker was born in Sarstedt, Germany, in 1955. He and his older brother, Scorpions founder Rudolf Schenker, began playing guitar around the same time, when Michael was only 9. By 14, he was performing in Copernicus alongside future Scorpions singer Klaus Meine.
The young guitarist joined Scorpions for the group's debut album, Lonesome Crow, which was recorded when he was 15 and released in 1972. Soon afterward, Schenker joined UFO while still a teenager and became a major part of the British group's rise.
His work can be heard across albums including Phenomenon, Lights Out and Obsession. Schenker wrote the music for "Doctor Doctor" and "Rock Bottom" at 17, establishing the melodic playing style that would become central to UFO's sound. His black-and-white Flying V also became one of rock's most recognizable guitars.
After leaving UFO in 1978, Schenker briefly returned to Scorpions for Lovedrive before forming the Michael Schenker Group. MSG released its self-titled debut in 1980, beginning a long-running project that allowed the guitarist to remain at the center of his own music.
His résumé later expanded with Contraband, a supergroup featuring L.A. Guns guitarist Tracii Guns, Ratt drummer Bobby Blotzer, Vixen bassist Share Pedersen and Shark Island singer Richard Black. The group released its only album in 1991.
Schenker remains active today. MSG released Don't Sell Your Soul in October 2025, followed by more tour dates throughout 2026. The guitarist explained his approach in a recent Guitar World interview.
"I've always believed in doing exactly what I feel like," Schenker said. "That's freedom of expression."
At 71, that independence continues to guide the guitarist whose playing helped shape hard rock long before he reached adulthood.
Related: '70s Rock Legend and Member of Iconic Rock Band Turns 80
Ask a Neurologist: When Does ‘Normal’ Memory Loss Become Something More?
More than 7 million people in the United States are living with Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. While changes in mood or personality, struggling to complete daily routines and pulling away from social activities are all signs of Alzheimer’s, the hallmark symptom is memory problems.
Everyone forgets things from time to time. Even those with sharp cognitive function may struggle to remember what they had for dinner a few nights ago or how they recognize the actor in the TV show they’re watching.
Living with Alzheimer’s—or having a loved one who has it—can be so devastating that it’s easy to become hyperaware of it as we age, fearing that every time you forget something, it’s an early stage of dementia. This can make it hard to distinguish “normal” forgetfulness from actual warning signs.
Parade talked with a Cleveland Clinic neurologist about the difference between acute memory issues that are a normal part of aging and early signs of dementia. Plus, see the most science-backed ways to support your cognitive health as you age.
Related: The Silent Symptom Most People Don't Realize Could Be a Dementia Sign, According to Neurologists
How Much of Dementia Is Preventable?Certainly, no one wants to get dementia. So how much of it is in our control? “Every case of dementia cannot be prevented from just diet and lifestyle changes because genetics and aging remain major risk factors. However, research does clearly show that addressing modifiable risk factors throughout life can potentially delay a substantial proportion of dementia cases,” says Dr. Nicholas Doher, DO, a neurologist at Cleveland Clinic specializing in cognitive and behavioral neurology, caring for patients with neurodegenerative disorders such as dementia.
Dr. Doher tells Parade that lifestyle changes should not be viewed as a guarantee against dementia, but they can reduce risk, improve cognitive reserve and delay the onset of symptoms.
Curious what habits make the most impact when it comes to lowering your risk of dementia? Dr. Doher emphasizes that one big way to take care of your brain is to take care of your heart. Doing what you can to avoid obesity, high cholesterol and high blood pressure all lower the risk of dementia. In one 2025 study that took into account people living in 204 countries, cardiovascular disease was significantly associated with incidences of dementia.
Not smoking is another way to lower your risk of dementia. According to a 2025 study published in BMC Public Health, smokers have an estimated 31% greater risk of dementia.
According to Dr. Doher, other ways to lower your risk of dementia include exercising regularly (especially doing aerobic exercise), consistently getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet consisting primarily of plant-based foods and unsaturated fats while limiting ultra-processed foods, minimizing alcohol intake, protecting hearing and vision, consistently learning new skills and maintaining social connections.
Related: Scientists Reveal the Step Count That May Delay Alzheimer's by 7 Years
Memory Loss That Is a ‘Normal’ Part of AgingThere’s a difference between moments of forgetfulness that are a normal part of getting older and when forgetting becomes a sign of a neurodegenerative disease, like dementia. “As people age, it may take a little longer to recall a name or learn a new skill or hobby, but the information is usually still there. Dementia, on the other hand, is caused by diseases that damage the brain and interfere with daily functioning,” Dr. Doher says.
With this in mind, all of the below examples are considered normal parts of aging and not a cause for concern, according to Dr. Doher:
- Occasionally forgetting a name but remembering it later
- Misplacing keys or glasses
- Walking into a room and forgetting why you went there before remembering later
- Needing reminders or calendars to stay organized
- Taking longer to learn new hobbies or unfamiliar tasks
“These changes can be very frustrating, but generally do not interfere with independent living and are often not a sign of neurodegenerative diseases,” he says.
Signs of Memory Loss That Could Be a Sign of DementiaAs Dr. Doher previously explained, what sets dementia apart from normal moments of forgetfulness is that it interferes with daily functioning. Forgetting where you put your keys or completely blanking on someone’s name can be annoying, but isn’t limiting in the way symptoms of dementia are.
Below are some examples of memory loss that could be early signs of dementia, according to Dr. Doher:
- Repeatedly asking the same questions because the answers are quickly forgotten
- Forgetting recent conversations or events as if they did not happen
- Difficulty managing finances, medications or other previously familiar responsibilities
- Getting lost in familiar places
- Trouble following recipes, instructions or managing complex tasks that were once routine
- Noticeable changes in judgment, personality or behavior
- Difficulty finding words or following conversations
- Family members noticing a decline that the individual may not recognize themselves
🩺SIGN UP for tips to stay healthy & fit with the top moves, clean eats, health trends & more delivered right to your inbox twice a week💊
What To Do if You or a Loved One Is Experiencing These Warning SignsIf you or a loved one is experiencing these warning signs, Dr. Doher recommends seeing a doctor for an evaluation. “Early evaluation is more important today than ever before,” he says.
A physical checkup and cognitive evaluation help pinpoint why the symptoms are occurring. Don’t automatically assume it’s because of dementia. “Symptoms may be caused by medications, depression, sleep disorders, thyroid disease, vitamin deficiencies, infections or other medical conditions that may be treatable,” Dr. Doher tells Parade.
What if the symptoms are due to dementia? Dr. Doher emphasizes that while there is no cure for most neurodegenerative diseases, there are treatments that can improve symptoms, and for people with early Alzheimer's disease, disease-modifying therapies may slow progression.
“Early diagnosis also gives patients and families time to plan, access community resources, address safety concerns, participate in clinical trials and make informed decisions while the patient can still actively participate,” he says.
It bears repeating that not every instance of forgetfulness is a sign of dementia, but it’s also important not to completely ignore them. “I would encourage people not to dismiss concerns simply because they are ‘getting older,’" Dr. Doher says. "If you or a loved one notices persistent changes in memory, thinking or behavior, don't ignore them. Many conditions that affect cognition are treatable, and for those that are not, earlier diagnosis allows for better care, better planning and increasingly access to new therapies that can have an impact on disease progression."
Do what you can to minimize your risk of dementia and, if your health does become impaired, take advantage of the resources available to you. Part of aging well is asking for help when you need it.
Up Next:
Related: The 3 Best Types of Exercise for Brain Health, According to a Cleveland Clinic Neurologist
Sources- Alzheimer’s Factsand Figures. Alzheimer’s Association.
- Dr. Nicholas Doher, DO, neurologist at Cleveland Clinic specializing in cognitive and behavioral neurology.
- You, W. (2025). Cardiovascular Disease as a Predictor of Dementia: A Cross-National Ecological Study of 204 Countries. Health Science Reports. 8(9):e71179.
- Myrstad, C., Larssen, M., Engdahl, B., et al. (2025). Smoking is associated with increased risk for dementia: the HUNT study, Norway. BMC Public Health. 26(1):246.
1975 Rock Song, With 19-Year-Old Singer, Became a Generational No. 1 Hit
By the summer of 1975, the Bay City Rollers had become Britain's biggest pop phenomenon.
Their fans, known collectively as "Rollermania," followed the Scottish band everywhere, sending each new release soaring up the charts. Among the biggest was "Give a Little Love," a joyous pop-rock anthem featuring lead singer Les McKeown, who was just 19 years old when the single was released in July 1975.
The song arrived during an extraordinary period for the band.
Having already reached No. 1 with "Bye, Bye, Baby," the Bay City Rollers showed they were far more than a one-hit wonder. "Give a Little Love" built on that momentum with an infectious chorus, bright harmonies, and McKeown's youthful vocal performance, capturing the upbeat energy that had made the group one of the biggest acts in the UK.
“We were going to all these fantastic, exotic places,” McKeown told Creamyears later. “We were just these young guys from the wrong side of town in Edinburgh and we didn’t expect to be travelling the world in first class. But we did and we loved it.”
Listeners responded immediately.
The single climbed to No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart, becoming the Bay City Rollers' second chart-topper. It further cemented the band's dominance during 1975, a year in which they seemed nearly unstoppable on the British charts and were beginning to attract an increasingly devoted international audience.
McKeown quickly became the face of that success.
Although still a teenager, his charisma and distinctive voice helped define the Bay City Rollers' signature sound. At just 19, he was leading one of the world's most popular bands, fronting songs that would soon become the soundtrack to an entire generation of pop fans.
“It simply felt like my whole teenage world was exploding,” McKeown told UK Music Reviewsin 2018. “I always thought of it as being a super adventure traveling the world having girlfriends of every nationality. I was on top of the world. I always thought that every single young boy should have this experience. They should have been allowed to spend at least a year in the Bay City Rollers world. Britain would have been a far happier nation.”
"Give a Little Love" has remained one of the group's enduring favorites.
Its optimistic message and singalong chorus have helped it stand the test of time, while its frequent inclusion on greatest-hits collections has introduced the song to new audiences long after the height of Rollermania. It also remains one of the band's most recognizable recordings alongside "Saturday Night," "Shang-a-Lang," and "Summerlove Sensation."
"Some of the fans from the old days have followed me and stayed with me all this time which is fantastic and I appreciate it," McKeown told The Soundcheck in 2017. "And they've brought along, maybe, a reluctant husband and maybe their kids who want to know or want to see who their mum keeps talking about and what were the songs she keeps playing in the car when they go on holiday. And they're interested to know what their mum might've been like when she was a kid."
More than 50 years after its release, "Give a Little Love" continues to evoke the excitement of the Bay City Rollers at the peak of their fame. Featuring a 19 year-old Les McKeown, the song became another No. 1 hit for the Scottish group and remains a beloved reminder of one of pop music's most unforgettable eras.
Related: 1974 Rock Song, With 18-Year-Old Singer, Is Still a Powerful Hit 52 Years Later
The Best Way To Make Greek Pasta Salad, According to a Professional Chef
In my opinion, pasta salad is the perfect summer lunch. It's cold and refreshing on a hot day, it shines a spotlight on my favorite summer vegetable of all time (the cherry tomato) and it's pretty easy to make.
That said, my pasta salad game isn't anything to write home about, as I usually just make it with whatever ingredients I have around the house rather than follow a specific recipe. And although it always turns out tasty, it's about time I take my pasta salad game to the next level—specifically, my Greek pasta salad game.
So, I turned to Christina Gdisis, the Greek vegan homestyle chef behind the brand Conscious Vegan Kitchen, under which she hosts in-person cooking retreats and teaches online cooking classes. Here, Gdisis exclusively shares with Parade her recipe for Greek orzo pasta salad, as well as a few tips she learned from her grandmother, aka her Yiayia Giannoula.
"What I love about this recipe so much is that it pulls from ingredients and proportions of traditional dishes—like my family’s patates salata (potato salad) and xoriatiki salata (village salad)," she tells Parade. "The Greek pasta salad is a way of allowing the orzo to showcase both of them."
Why This Greek Pasta Salad Is So Good"I grew up watching more than cooking, so I absorbed measurements and ratios through my senses," Gdisis says. "When I started to develop my own plant-based versions of these recipes, this Greek inspired pasta salad formed into a salad that happens to have orzo in it, versus a salad wearing Greek ingredients."
Gdisis' Greek pasta salad recipe is different than what you might be used to in the U.S., where sugar is typically used to cut acidity. In fact, there are only two ingredients in her dressing: olive oil and red wine vinegar.
"The dressing ratio in this recipe comes straight from horiatiki and potato salads, and truly it doesn’t get more Greek than that," she tells Parade. "Xoriatiki salata alone is the quintessential Greek summer salad. The olive oil is doing a lot of the work and the vinegar plays an essential supporting role."
Related: 40 Plant-Based Tofu Recipes Even Meat Lovers Will Enjoy
Another important component of a Greek pasta salad is feta cheese. Gdisis likes to make vegan tofu feta from scratch, as this allows her to "get the real briny and salty taste that dairy feta has." There are plenty of recipes for tangy vegan feta online, from popular plant-based recipe blogs like Rainbow Plant Life and It Doesn't Taste Like Chicken.
Alternatively, Gdisis recommends Just Like Feta, which she says has a "good flavor profile." This plant-based cheese is made by Violife, a company based in Thessaloniki, Greece.
Additionally, make sure to buy fresh cherry tomatoes when making pasta salad. In summer, "tomatoes are the star of the season, when they’re super juicy and flavorful," says Gdisis.
Ingredients Neededconor hensen / Getty Images
Gather and prep all of these ingredients for the pasta salad and dressing:
- 1 pound orzo, cooked and cooled completely
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 English cucumber, diced
- Half a red onion, thinly sliced, dipped in cold water to "soften the bite"
- 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 2 Tbsp capers
- Half cup single origin extra virgin olive oil, stored in dark glass
- 3 Tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1–2 tsp dried oregano, rubbed between your fingers before adding
- Handful of kritamo, aka sea fennel, chopped ("if you can find it," says Gdisis)
- 1 block vegan feta, crumbled
- Salt, only if needed
Here are the steps to follow, according to Gdisis.
- Cook orzo and let it completely cool.
- In a large bowl, toss the cooled orzo, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives and capers.
- Make the dressing by whisking together the olive oil and red wine vinegar.
- Generously pour the dressing over the salad and toss.
- Rub the dried oregano between your fingers as you add it to the bowl.
- Add the chopped kritamo (optional).
- Fold in the vegan feta, making sure to keep it in crumbles and not smush it into a paste.
- Add salt to taste.
Related: These 44 Meatless and Dairy-Free Casserole Recipes Will Complete Your Vegan Dinner Goal Dreams
Chef Tips To Make Greek Pasta Salad Taste Extra AmazingAfter you cook the pasta, make sure to let it cool completely before combining it with any other ingredients. "Warm orzo wilts the cucumber and turns the whole bowl soft," warns Gdisis.
When adding the dressing to the pasta salad, don't hold back. "The oil should coat everything generously, and the vinegar is there to cut through it," she explains.
Dried oregano is a key ingredient in Greek pasta salad—just make sure to rub it between your fingers as you add it to the salad, as this will "wake up the oil in the leaves."
But Gdisis' No. 1 tip is to listen to your tastebuds and adjust accordingly.
"Taste it standing at the counter the way my Yiayia would," Gdisis says. "This recipe is finished by tasting it and deciding if it needs anything else."
For instance, if the salad tastes too dry or acidic, add more olive oil. If it tastes flat, add more vinegar. And most importantly: "Salt last, and only if something is still missing."
Up Next:
Related: I Tried Sourdough French Toast and Will Never Use 'Regular' Bread Again
Source:- Christina Gdisis, Greek vegan homestyle chef and founder of Conscious Vegan Kitchen
Your Motivational Anthem, According to Your Birth Date
Motivational anthems are the perfect antidote during tough times. When you need to tap into your resilience, a good jam can get you out of bed, into your sneakers, and ready to take on whatever's next. According to numerologists and astrologers, the day you were born points to the timeless track that lights that fire in you. This tune matches your personality when you're at your most determined, highlighting your strengths.
Each Birth Date's Motivational AnthemCheck for your birth date. Disregard birth months.
Born on the 1st, 10th, 19th, or 28th — "Eye of the Tiger" by SurvivorRuled by the Sun and the number 1, these birth dates are wired for dominance. This anthem's relentless, unstoppable build matches your drive to lead the pack, not follow it.
Born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, or 29th — "The Rose" by Bette MidlerMoon-ruled birth dates draw strength from emotion, not aggression. Your intuition is subtle, yet powerful. This anthem's tender, resilient message mirrors how you push through hard moments - quietly, but completely. As a natural peacekeeper, you don't need all eyes on you to feel empowered.
Born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, or 30th — "I Wanna Dance with Somebody" by Whitney HoustonThese birth dates are resonant with the number 3 in numerology and align with creativity. Your joyful, expressive energy needs a song that feels like celebration, not grind. This anthem's pure exuberance fuels your motivation better than intensity ever could.
Born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, or 31st — "Working Man" by RushGrounded, birth dates that reduce to a 4 thrive on discipline and steady effort. Numerologists highlight your dedication to doing things the right way, swapping shortcuts for long-term success. This track's steady, hard-won grind matches your no-nonsense approach to any goal.
Born on the 5th, 14th, or 23rd — "Born to Run" by Bruce SpringsteenThese birth dates need momentum. Correlated with 5, the numerological digit of freedom and change, you love to explore uncharted territory. You? Staying stagnant? No way, not a chance! This anthem's restless, open-road energy fuels your need to keep moving forward, fast.
Born on the 6th, 15th, or 24th — "I Will Survive" by Gloria GaynorThese people, born under Venus' influence, are deeply passionate about love and give their all in relationships. However, when others perceive their kindness as a weakness, they are resilient and know how to recover. These individuals are driven by self-belief and their emotions. The message of this anthem about coming back stronger resonates with how you motivate yourself—both for the people you love and for your own personal growth.
Born on the 7th, 16th, or 25th — "Man in the Mirror" by Michael JacksonAs an introspective person, you need an anthem with substance, not just noise. Ruled by Neptune, the spiritual planet of healing, you long for deep, transformative healing during your tough moments. This track's reflective, purpose-driven message gives your quiet determination something to rally around.
Born on the 8th, 17th, or 26th — "We Will Rock You" by QueenSaturn-ruled, these birth dates are serious, determined souls. Reduced to the number 8, associated with worldly success, you're the most built for endurance of all the birth dates. This anthem's relentless, stomping intensity matches your willingness to grind long after everyone else has stopped.
Born on the 9th, 18th, or 27th — "Hero" by Mariah CareyYou find motivation in your sense of purpose. Ruled by Mars, the warrior planet, you possess a powerful inner strength. Humanitarian at your core, you're driven by the desire for both individual and collective healing. The message of this anthem, which reminds you that the hero lies within you all along, aligns perfectly with your drive to achieve something greater than yourself.
UP NEXT:
Gwyneth Paltrow's TikTok Debut Video Is Going Viral — Here's Why
A-list actress Gwyneth Paltrow is on TikTok! And yes, this is her first solo foray on the social media site. Even though her brand, Goop, does have a TikTok presence, the lifestyle guru had yet to join on her own. But recently, that changed.
Paltrow posted a montage of clips saying, “I’ll be there in one second, I’m just doing this TikTok,” from different locations around the world. The globe-trotter is on a boat, in a helicopter, in France (presumably, as she’s speaking French), in bed (nude!), in Italy (again, presumably as she’s speaking Italian), on a plane, in the bath (also nude!), and in a museum.
Along with the now-viral first-time video, Paltrow writes, “Apparently I’m on TikTok now.” And based on the comments, her fans have plenty to say about it.
@ ♬ - What do fans think of Gwyneth Paltrow’s first solo TikTok?If you’re surprised to learn that the actress has a TikTok account, you aren’t alone. Fans flocked to her inaugural post, shocked that she wasn’t already on the social media platform.
“There’s no way this is true, and I’m this early,” said one fan.
Others added, “This is epic”, “Welcome queen!,” and “Wait. I love this! Welcome to TikTok.”
Then there were the fans who wanted to see more: “Well now that she’s here, I’d love a few TikToks of her house…I can’t eat gluten but I need to see the pizza oven.” Just in case you missed the pizza oven memo, way back in 2010, Paltrow talked up her two outdoor pizza ovens during an interview with Vogue—one in London and one in Long Island.
Some fans doubted the authenticity of her account, writing, “Am I really this early or is this a fake account?”, “Wait, is this really your page?” and “Gwyneth would never launch unverified.” While it’s possible that little blue checkmark was not next to her name at first, as of now the @gwynethpaltrow TikTok account is very much verified.
Even though this is Gwyneth’s first stand-alone stab at TikTok, her company Goop has maintained a presence on the social media for several years. Not only does Goop have a TikTok account, but Paltrow is featured in more than a few videos. Which makes perfect sense, seeing as it is her brand. Hopefully she’ll share less branded material and more personal clips on her new page.
Unbelievably, as of now, Paltrow’s new TikTok account only has just over 4,700 followers. That means you could still be one of the first fans to follow the superstar celeb.
The Secret Wedding Dress of Princess Diana
It's always good to have a backup plan, but having a backup outfit can truly prepare you for anything.
When Princess Diana walked down the aisle on July 29, 1981, the world saw one of the most iconic wedding gowns in history. What no one knew was that another dress was waiting behind the scenes just in case disaster struck.
Designed by husband-and-wife duo David and Elizabeth Emanuel, the secret gown was created as an insurance policy while the now-famous wedding dress was being finished. "I was a bit neurotic," Elizabeth Emanuel previously told PEOPLE. "I thought, 'What happens if somebody breaks in and steals the dress or something spills or there's a fire?' So I thought, 'I'm going to make a backup dress.'"
Unlike Diana's legendary ivory silk taffeta dress with its record-breaking 25-foot train, the spare design was noticeably different. It featured slimmer sleeves, white silk instead of ivory, and a much shorter train. It also was never fully completed because, fortunately, it was never needed.
View this post on InstagramPerhaps the biggest surprise? Diana had no idea it even existed. According to Emanuel, she and David intentionally kept the project a secret so they wouldn't add unnecessary stress to the bride ahead of one of the most watched weddings in history.
More than four decades later, the original backup dress has never been found. Emanuel believes it may have been discarded, reused, or simply disappeared over the years.
According to PEOPLE, the forgotten design was brought back to life in 2024, when Emanuel recreated the never-worn gown for an exhibit at the virtual Princess Diana Museum using original sketches and archival images.
While the world remembers the dress Diana wore, it's the one she never even knew about that remains one of the most fascinating "what if?" stories from her beloved royal wedding. Which dress do you prefer: Diana's iconic wedding gown or the understated backup design that almost became royal history?
Best-Selling Author’s Twisty New Novel Ranked the 'Most Popular Thriller of 2026' on Goodreads
Author Freida McFadden (real name Sara Cohen, as McFadden prefers to publish her work under a pseudonym) is no stranger to having a hit novel amongst readers. Her 2022 book The Housmaid was an international monster hit and is still widely read by book lovers. In 2026 so far, she has published two novels, with one more forthcoming. Her book Dear Debbie, published in January, is immensely popular and was just ranked the No. 1 "Most Popular Mystery & Thriller" by Goodreads.
The revenge novel was another hit for McFadden, topping bestseller lists in the United States and the United Kingdom. On Goodreads, the book holds a 3.94 rating, more than 570,000 ratings from users, and over 50,000 reviews.
Readers have praised the story and McFadden for "doing it again," saying:
- "What in the 'Desperate Housewives' meets unfiltered female rage did I just read?! 😳🔥🍷 Because WOW."
- "I honestly wish Freida McFadden would release a new book every single week so my entire year could be brighter, twistier, smarter—and most importantly, endlessly entertaining—just like her unputdownable, incredibly addictive writing."
- "Holy Shooty Balls this one owned me! Viciously satisfying, darkly funny, & jaw dropping from start to finish!"
Dear Debbie follows protagonist Debbie Mullen, a suburban housewife and advice columnist who has spent years doling out advice through her "Dear Debbie" column. However, despite her picture-perfect life, Debbie fully snaps after receiving criticism for her work, getting fired, and suspecting her husband is having an affair. Debbie begins seeking out a way to enact justice on her own, and along the way uncovers far more than she bargained for while being a one-woman vigilante.
McFadden's next book, The Witch, is out in October of 2026. The book is currently available for pre-order.
Dear Debbie and other works by McFadden are out now and available wherever books are sold.
🎬SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬
Related: Best-Selling 1965 Science Fiction Epic Ranked Among ‘Best Books of All Time’
Flesh-Eating Bacteria Tied to Popular Seafood Leaves 12 Sick, 1 Dead
Florida has recorded its first death of the year linked to a dangerous bacteria commonly associated with seafood and coastal waters, according to state health officials.
The bacteria, Vibrio vulnificus, is often called "flesh-eating" because in severe cases it can cause necrotizing fasciitis, a fast-moving infection that destroys skin and muscle tissue. It's most commonly linked to raw or undercooked shellfish, particularly oysters, though people can also become infected through exposure to warm, brackish water where rivers or streams meet the sea.
Florida has confirmed 12 cases so far this year as of July 30, along with one death in Palm Beach County. That's a notable pace compared to last year, when the state recorded 33 cases and five deaths over the full year.
Health officials stress that infections remain rare, but they can escalate quickly. Symptoms often begin within 24 hours of exposure and can include fever, chills, rapidly spreading skin redness or swelling, fluid-filled blisters, and confusion. In serious cases, the infection can spread to the bloodstream and organs within hours, and roughly 1 in 5 people who contract it will die, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The CDC estimates 100 to 200 cases of vibriosis caused by this specific bacteria are reported nationally each year, with most concentrated in Gulf Coast states. Other, more common strains of vibrio bacteria cause roughly 80,000 additional infections annually across the country.
Experts note that severe weather, including hurricanes and flooding, has previously been linked to spikes in cases, as floodwaters can spread the bacteria into new areas.
To reduce risk, health officials recommend cooking seafood thoroughly, washing hands after handling raw shellfish, and avoiding exposure to coastal or brackish water if you have any open cuts, scrapes, or recent piercings. Anyone with a compromised immune system or a condition like liver disease or diabetes is considered at higher risk and is advised to take extra precautions, including wearing protective footwear near coastal waters.
'SNL' Season 52 Ticket Lottery Is Open, Here's How to Apply for Free Tickets
NBC's Saturday Night Live just handed fans a golden ticket, and the countdown has begun. Like every year, fans now have a shot at scoring a seat for a live taping in Studio 8H, and the window to enter just opened.
When Does the 'SNL' Ticket Lottery Open and Close? SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE -- Episode 1903 -- Pictured: (l-r) Musical guest Noah Kahan, host Matt Damon, and special guest Aziz Ansari-- (Photo by: Caro Scarimbolo/NBC)
The lottery opened at 12:00 a.m. ET on August 1 and runs through 11:59 p.m. ET on August 31, 2026. Any entries submitted before or after that window won't be considered, so timing matters if you want a shot at tickets for the upcoming season.
How to Enter the 'SNL' Ticket Lottery?Entering is simple, but the rules are strict. Fans can apply by emailing SNLTICKETS@NBCUNI.COM with their full name, email address, and a short explanation of why they'd like to be part of the studio audience.
Only one entry is allowed per household, and everyone attending must be at least 16 years old. Winners are selected completely at random and receive two tickets to a random show date and time. Requests for a specific date won't be honored, so anyone planning travel around the show should build in some flexibility.
Where to See 'SNL' Live and How Standby Works?Tapings take place at 30 Rockefeller Plaza in New York City. For fans who don't win the lottery, standby is another option, though it's far from guaranteed. Standby reservations open at 10 a.m. the Thursday before a show, with a choice between the 8 p.m. dress rehearsal or the 11:30 p.m. live broadcast.
Anyone who receives a reservation number needs to check in at the in-person standby line on 49th Street between 6 and 7 p.m. the Friday before the show.
Standby cards are handed out at 12:01 a.m. Saturday, and holding one still doesn't guarantee entry. For more info, please check the official website for Tickets and the NBC Studio Tour.
Please note: Tickets are never sold, so any third-party reseller claiming to offer SNL tickets should be ignored entirely. The minimum age to attend is 16, and the 2026-2027 season is expected to begin in late September.
What to Know About Season 52 So Far? SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE -- Episode 1887 -- Pictured: Bowen Yang during the "Grind Song" sketch on Saturday, October 18, 2025 --(Photo by: Esther Kuhn/NBC)
Season 52 is reported to premiere September 26, which would make it the show's earliest season debut since Season 38 kicked off on September 15, 2012, though NBC has not yet confirmed the date.
Chloe Fineman became the first cast member to announce her departure last month after seven seasons on the show. She shared an emotional statement on Instagram on July 16, confirming her departure.
Since most SNL contracts expire August 1, more cast news could follow in the coming weeks, as reported by Latenighter. Despite that, a finalized lineup for the new season likely won't be confirmed until sometime later.
August is also typically when producer Lorne Michaels and his team hold in-studio auditions, a process that's already underway. The Latenighter also reported on Saturday, August 1 that show representatives were spotted scouting talent at Montreal's Just for Laughs festival last week.
'Gilmore Girls' Baby Names Are Surging, but One Is a Clear Favorite With Parents
Twenty-six years after Gilmore Girls premiered, one of Stars Hollow’s most beloved names is appearing on birth certificates across America.
Lorelai (pronunciation law·ruh·lai) is climbing fast up the list of America's most popular baby names, reaching its highest ranking in decades. It's a distinctive name most people still associate with one place — Stars Hollow, the fictional Connecticut town at the center of the show.
Lauren Graham played Lorelai Gilmore, the fiercely independent mother at the heart of Gilmore Girls. Alexis Bledel starred as her daughter, who was also named Lorelai but known to everyone as Rory. Many of the parents naming babies today grew up watching Lorelai and Rory themselves, and now they're passing that same love for the show on, both to their kids and, in a growing number of cases, straight into their birth certificates. That relationship gives parents two possible nicknames for a daughter named Lorelai — Lori, Lora, or Rory, connecting her to both generations of Gilmore women.
The Gilmore Girls Baby Name Climbing the Charts Alexis Bledel and Lauren Graham star in Warner Bros. TV series "The Gilmore Girls."(Photo by Warner Bros./Delivered by Online USA)
Lorelai has become one of the fastest-rising names for newborn girls in the United States. Baby registry platform Babylist recently highlighted the name as a trending choice. The official Social Security Administration rankings show that Lorelai reached No. 333 among girls’ names in 2025. It ranked No. 403 one year earlier, meaning it climbed 70 places.
That ranking does not mean 333 out of every 1,000 babies received the name. It means Lorelai was the 333rd most frequently chosen name for girls born in the United States during 2025. The SSA compiles its annual list using information submitted by families when they apply for Social Security numbers for their newborns.
How Popular Is the Name Lorelai?A total of 926 baby girls were named Lorelai in 2025, up from 786 in 2024, according to Nameberry’s review of SSA data. The alternative spelling Lorelei is also gaining ground. It rose 13 positions, moving from No. 454 in 2024 to No. 441 in 2025. The government data does not explain why parents selected a particular name, so it cannot confirm that every new Lorelai was named after the show. Still, the timing makes the connection difficult to miss.
Fans regularly discuss the name on parenting forums, while social media is filled with children whose rooms, clothes, and birthday parties carry a Stars Hollow theme.
Lorelai and Rory Remain Beloved TV NamesThe original series ran for seven seasons before wrapping in 2007. Netflix later brought the cast back for the 2016 revival Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life, keeping the characters in the public conversation well beyond the show's original run.
The series premiered in 2000, but streaming has kept it alive for one generation of new viewers after another. For longtime fans, Lorelai offers something few TV-inspired names can match — it's recognizable without feeling ordinary, comes with several nickname options, and carries a small piece of Stars Hollow into a new generation.
This Phrase Is How ‘High-Class’ People Say Goodbye, Psychologist Explains
There are many different things people focus on in order to make a good impression. For example, you might stand in your closet for a few (or 50) extra minutes, trying to choose the very best outfit ahead of an interview. You might silently coach yourself in the middle of a conversation: "Let them finish their thought before jumping in..." Maybe you even brainstorm possible questions to ask someone before you get together.
But there's one thing you still might be overlooking in social settings: how you say goodbye. I'm not just talking about letting someone know you're heading out instead of doing an "Irish exit." Instead, I'm referring to the actual phrases you use when leaving an event or stepping away from a conversation. And, according to a psychologist, there's one phrase in particular that "high-class" people tend to use when they have to head out.
Find out how classy individuals say "see ya" (and why they try to make the most out of their goodbyes), along with two things high-class people avoid doing at the end of a gathering or interaction.
Frazao Studio Latino/Getty Images
The Phrase That High-Class People Use To Say Goodbye: "So Good To See You"Two psychologists previously told Parade about the significance of the very end of an interaction, with Dr. Cynthia Shaw, PsyD, highlighting the "Peak-end Rule," which researchers have described as "a memory heuristic in which the most emotionally salient part of an experience (i.e., peak) and conclusion of an experience (i.e., end) are weighted more heavily in summary evaluations."
Because we tend to remember more about the end of a conversation than the beginning, experts say that high-class people make the most out of their goodbyes, and they're intentional with their words.
“[‘So good to see you’ signals] friendliness and approachability without entanglement,” Dr. Noëlle Santorelli, PhD, previously shared, calling it out as the phrase high-class people use at the end of an interaction.
Dr. Shaw offered another phrase classy people use when they have to head out: “It was nice catching up with you today."
2 Things "High-Class" People Don't Do During GoodbyesBeing intentional with word choice is only one part of the puzzle when it comes to a classy goodbye. There are also some things high-class people avoid doing at the end of an conversation. Here are two examples:
1. Make it all about themAs etiquette expert Jamila Musayevapreviously told Parade, “From speaking too loudly to dominating every conversation, trying too hard to be noticed often has the opposite effect that a classy woman wants to give off."
That's why an especially classy individual doesn't seek attention in the interaction, including at the end.
"Instead, she listens attentively and contributes meaningfully, letting her presence speak for itself,” Musayeva explained.
2. Avoid eye contactNonverbal cues are just as important as the comments we make out loud. As etiquette expert Jenny Dreizenpreviously told Parade, classy interactions involve respectful eye contact.
“Maintaining soft but steady eye contact lets people know you are actively engaged,” she said. “They will feel seen and heard and not like you are more interested in that conversation over there.”
This is especially important around the time an event is wrapping up, when distractions abound.
Up Next:
Related: This Phrase Makes You Instantly Approachable, Psychologist Explains
Sources:- Dr. Cynthia Shaw, PsyD, licensed clinical psychologist, Certified Grief Professional, Approved Clinical Supervisor and owner of Authentically Living Psychological Services
- Dr. Noëlle Santorelli, PhD, licensed clinical psychologist in Atlanta, Georgia
- Jamila Musayeva, etiquette expert with over one million followers on her YouTube channel
- Jenny Dreizen, etiquette expert, co-founder and COO of Fresh Starts Registry and author of Simple Scripts to Support Your People
Aldi's $5 Spicy Chicken Patties Are Back, but Shoppers Warn: Don't Underestimate the Heat
Aldi's viral Kirkwood Spicy Chicken Patties are back on shelves as of July 29, and shoppers wasted no time reacting.
The frozen patties, a fan-favorite "dupe" for a well-known fast-food spicy chicken sandwich, disappeared from stores earlier this year. Their return as a limited-time Aldi Find quickly lit up social media, with one Reddit user announcing they'd bought five bags in one trip.
Spice level was the biggest topic of conversation. One commenter warned the patties are "sneaky hot," while another said their spouse was caught off guard by just how much heat packed into each bite. Several shoppers admitted they don't consider themselves spice-sensitive but were still surprised.
Not everyone found the heat to be a dealbreaker. Multiple commenters shared their preferred method for taming the patties, from air-frying them with cheese and pickles to pairing them with something cool on the side. One shopper compared the payoff to Chick-fil-A's spicy sandwich, while another said they now hold up better than a well-known chain's spicy chicken option.
Availability quickly became a theme in the comments too. Shoppers from West Virginia to Florida to Pennsylvania chimed in with updates on whether their local stores had restocked, while others reported empty shelves and out-of-stock alerts online. A few commenters noted the patties seem to be popping up unevenly, with one estimating only a handful of stores in their area had received a shipment so far.
Some shoppers used the thread to request Aldi bring back other discontinued favorites alongside the patties, name-checking the chain's crab cakes as a top request.
The patties are priced at $4.99 per bag, according to Aldi's website, though prices may vary by location. They're fully cooked, made with white meat chicken, and can be found in the freezer section near the brand's other breaded chicken products.
The 'King of Plot Twists' Is Dropping August 2026's Most Anticipated Book
When it comes to August books, there are some exciting releases coming. Only one stands out as the most popular of the August 2026 books on Goodreads, and it’s the most anticipated as well. It’s all about The Unknown by Riley Sager.
Whether you know him as “The King of Plot Twists” or “The King of Thrillers,” Sager’s 10th novel is definitely one we’ve all been keeping an eye on. It’s publishing slightly later than we’re used to — as June tends to be his month — but The Unknown is more than worth the wait.
It’s the No. 1 most popular book on Goodreads for August 2026, and it also sits at the top of the list of most anticipated books for the month. This is across all the genres, which makes it clear that the horror fans are here to see Summerween out in style!
‘The Unknown’ Goes Back to Riley Sager’s RootsOriginally set in 1926, The Unknown takes us to a mystery that involves five women disappearing from a remote Vermont island. Getting us to the present day, the same thing starts to happen again. Yes, 100 years later, and now a group head back to the same island, and soon they finds themselves trapped with something sinister that is about to threaten them all.
It’s back to Sager’s roots with paranormal horror. Many fans will remember finding him in 2017 when the legendary horror author Stephen King named his novel Final Girls as “the first great thriller” of the year. From that point onward, Sager’s star has risen, and he isn’t afraid to experiment with different tropes and cultural fixations.
We’ve seen final girls, locked-room mysteries, and haunted houses. Now it’s time to head into the world of ghost stories and remote islands. Of course, there’s a cultural element to it, as main character, Marin Keane, is a struggling actress who lands what could have once been a dream role in a major motion picture. Maybe the stay on the island is going to make her rethink those dreams!
The Unknown already has a 4.06-star average on Goodreads. With more than 150,000 people adding the novel to their “Want to Read” accounts, it sits comfortably in the No. 1 spot as the most popular August 2026 book. And the month is only just getting started!
Courtesy of Penguin Random House Riley Sager Is Visiting 10 CitiesTo mark his 10th book, Sager is on the road to visit 10 cities to promote the novel. It all starts on Aug. 3, 2026 in Houston, and from there you can visit him in:
- Dallas (8/4)
- Phoenix (8/5)
- St. Louis (8/6)
- Indianapolis (8/7)
- New York (8/10)
- Harrisburg (8/11)
- Princeton (8/12)
- Woodsocket (8/13)
- Philadelphia (8/17)
Get ready for plenty of scares. You’ll probably want to read this during the day, otherwise you’ll start to hear things going bump in the night!
This '90s Alternative Band Made Yungblud's Dream Come True at Lollapalooza
For Yungblud, one Lollapalooza performance was more than just a cameo - it was a fan moment playing out in real time. During The Smashing Pumpkins'Friday night set, Billy Corgan surprised the massive Chicago crowd by inviting him onstage to perform "Luna," the closing track from the band's beloved 1993 album Siamese Dream.
As the song came to an end, Yungblud couldn't hide his excitement, telling the crowd, "This is a f***ing dream come true!", a moment that instantly became one of the festival's biggest highlights. The surprises weren't over.
View this post on InstagramLater in the set, Corgan introduced another special guest: Olivia Rodrigo. Accompanied by Corgan on acoustic guitar, Rodrigo joined the band for a haunting performance of "Thirty-Three," from the Smashing Pumpkins' landmark 1995 album Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness. Her look felt like its own piece of '90s homage: the babydoll-esque silhouette instantly recalling Courtney Love's iconic "kinderwhore" style with Hole, right down to the era's signature mix of delicate and disheveled. With rain falling and the stage bathed in red light, the visuals became one of the most talked-about moments of the entire festival.
View this post on InstagramAccording to Rolling Stone, the Pumpkins have been full of surprises throughout Lollapalooza week. At an earlier aftershow, they welcomed Barry Williams (best known as Greg Brady on The Brady Bunch) to perform the sitcom classic "It's a Sunshine Day," while former touring bassist Melissa Auf der Maur also reunited with the band for "The Everlasting Gaze."
Together, the two guest appearances showcased just how influential the Smashing Pumpkins remain more than three decades after breaking through during alternative rock's golden era.
WNBA Star Files for Divorce From Wife of 8 Years Who Fought for Her Release From Russian Prison
Brittney Griner has filed for divorce from her wife, Cherelle Griner, after eight years of marriage.
The Connecticut Sun center filed the petition Thursday in Fulton County, Georgia, according to court documents. In the filing, Griner described the marriage as "irretrievably broken," stating there was no hope of reconciliation.
Court documents show the couple has been separated since July 24. Griner is asking for joint physical custody of their son, Bash, whom the couple welcomed in 2024. She's also seeking an equitable division of the couple's marital assets and debts.
An attorney for Brittney Griner addressed the filing in a brief statement, saying the matter is one the couple hopes to resolve privately and that there would be no further comment at this time. Representatives for Cherelle Griner have not yet responded to requests for comment.
The two met as students at Baylor University, where Brittney Griner became the program's No. 2 all-time scorer in NCAA Division I women's basketball history. They married in June 2018.
Cherelle Griner, an attorney, became a prominent advocate for her wife's release after Brittney Griner was detained in Russia in February 2022. Authorities said they found vape cartridges containing cannabis oil in her luggage, and she was later convicted on drug charges and sentenced to nine years in a Russian penal colony.
Cherelle Griner spoke publicly and often during her wife's nearly 10-month detention, working to keep pressure on U.S. officials. Brittney Griner was ultimately released in December 2022 as part of a high-profile prisoner swap.
The couple's relationship remained in the public eye in the years since, including a joint appearance at the Sundance Film Festival premiere of a documentary about Brittney Griner's life earlier this year.
This marks Brittney Griner's second marriage. She was previously married to former WNBA player Glory Johnson in 2015.
45 Years Ago Today, MTV Was Born — Here’s an '80s Rock Gem You May Have Forgotten
On August 1, 1981, MTV announced its arrival with a rocket blastoff, an iconic electric guitar riff, and a promise of a television channel devoted entirely to music videos. The newly launched network introduced the world to clips by Pat Benatar, The Who, Phil Collins,Rod Stewart, and, of course, The Buggles' “Video Killed the Radio Star.”
Within months, music videos became a must-have for artists, and a punky/new wave clip found a home on MTV's early playlist. The song was ”Working Girl” by The Members, and nearly 45 years later it remains an iconic part of MTV’s introduction of British new wave sounds to American viewers—even if it isn’t as well remembered as other music videos.
Written by Nicky Tesco and J.C. Carroll, “Working Girl” appeared on the band’s album Uprhythm Downbeat. The song featured an upbeat energy and a sing-along chorus as it told a tongue-in-cheek tale about a lazy guy mooching off of a hardworking woman. Its accompanying music video highlighted the song’s cheeky humor.
“Working Girl” was written about Tesco’s girlfriend Annie Day, per a post on The Members website, along with the explanation, “Being a musician it is very important to be in a relationship with someone who has a regular income.”
In a 2025 interview with Punk 77, Carroll looked back on writing “Working Girl” with Tesco, who died in 2022. “This song has Nicky’s character in it,” he said. “He wasn’t the world’s greatest singer, but he was a great raconteur and talker.”
Carroll also revealed that for the music video, the band hired professional models to play the 9-to-5 girlfriends of the scraggly Members bandmates. He told The Irish Times that while shooting the video, the models refused to speak to the band between takes.
“We were pop stars in America for a while,” Carroll also noted. “They thought we were an eighties college radio band, sort of like a U2 thing. So yeah, we had a career in America and Australia. But we didn’t realize that this was only going to last for about 18 months.”
Just as MTV was introducing The Members to American audiences, the band split following a U.S. tour in 1983. More than 40 years later, “Working Girl” remains The Members’ biggest U.S. success—and a forgotten MTV gem that helped shape the network’s diverse musical history.
