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It might seem like Season 51 of Saturday Night Live was just getting started, but the sad truth is...it's already almost over. From the very first episode, hosted by Bad Bunny, to last week's installment (led by Matt Damon), the whole season has honestly been pretty great, with plenty of standout moments from cast members like Jane Wickline and Marcello Hernandez.

Unfortunately, there's just one new episode left to go in SNL Season 51. But is it airing tonight?

Here's everything you need to know before you tune in!

Is there a new episode of 'SNL' tonight?

Yes! Tonight, May 16, SNL's Season Finale episode will be led by former cast member Will Ferrell, who'll be hosting for the sixth time, and Paul McCartney, making his fifth appearance as musical guest.

In a preview for tonight's episode, Ferrell, Hernandez and McCartney all agree that the former Beatle will be the evening's main attraction.

Who is hosting next week and who is the musical guest?

There will be no new episode of SNL until next season starts.

What time does 'SNL' air?

SNL airs at 11:30 p.m. EST / 8:30 p.m. PST.

Related: Every 'SNL' Host of Season 51 So Far

Where can I watch 'SNL'?

New episodes of SNL air live on NBC and Peacock on Saturdays (they're available to stream later).

Related: Every ‘SNL’ Musical Guest of Season 51 So Far

For five months after graduating with a double-major in English and Religious Studies from Kenyon College, author and YouTuber John Greenworked as a student chaplin at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. That experience, combined with losing a young friend named Esther to cancer, shaped what would eventually become one of the best-selling books of all time: The Fault in our Stars.

On working on the book Green said, "I tried to write that book for almost 10 years. Ever since I worked as a chaplain, I would go back, I was trying to work on what I called the Children's Hospital Story, although in all of its previous incarnations, it starred this 22-year-old hospital chaplain, who was, like, surprisingly handsome and, like, hooking up with doctors. It was very embarrassing. I hope that — it was just terrible. But you know, I would go back to that story and go back to it and go back to it. Then in 2010 a good friend of mine died of cancer, a young friend, and I went back to the story, and I went back to it angry and needing to work."

In 2011, Green worked on the novel while serving as the artist in residence in Amsterdam with the Dutch Foundation for Literature. He also shaped what would become the final manuscript in collaboration with his long-time editor Julie Strauss-Gabel.

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For over six months prior to the novel being published, pre-orders for The Fault in Our Stars contributed to the book being a number one seller on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. The book debuted at number on on the New York Times bestseller list in 2012, where it would remain for 43 weeks. The novel spent over two years in the top ten list for bestsellers.

The Fault in Our Stars is a heartbreaking but hopeful story following 16-year-old Hazel Grace Lancaster who is facing a diagnosis of terminal thyroid cancer. Her parents force her to attend a support group where she meets 17-year-old Augustus Waters, an ex-basketball player and amputee who survived osteosarcoma. The pair are immediately drawn to each other, and Hazel's worldview completely shifts as she discovers what it means to be alive, living, and in love.

The Fault in our Stars has been called "damn near genius" and "a smartly crafted intellectual explosion of a romance." A film adaptation starring Shailene Woodley and Ansel Elgort was released in 2014 to critical and box office acclaim and success.

Good things take time, and evidenced by the success and response from fans for The Fault in our Stars, the decade it took Green to get to the final chapter was well worth it.

Related: John Green Announces Debut Adult Fiction Novel

Frozen chicken tenders usually aren’t my thing. If I’m craving tenders, I typically just end up going to Raising Cane’s or Chick-fil-A. Most frozen ones I’ve had before were dry, weirdly chewy or had that overly processed texture that’s hard to ignore.

But with fast-food prices getting kind of ridiculous lately, I wanted to see if there were any frozen options actually worth keeping around in my freezer for nights when I wanted something easy without making another drive-thru run.

I decided to hold a taste test to find the best frozen chicken tenders, so I picked up 14 different frozen chicken tenders and strips from stores like Target, Walmart, Aldi, Albertsons and Sprouts, including a few gluten-free options. The quality gap between brands was way bigger than I expected. A couple were crispy, juicy and genuinely satisfying, while a few others barely made it through the taste test.

After eating way too many chicken tenders over the course of this taste test, I realized pretty quickly that frozen tenders vary a lot more than I originally thought. The best ones had crispy breading and juicy chicken that actually tasted like real meat. The worst ones were salty, spongey and hard to finish after a few bites.

A handful of brands surprised me enough that I’d actually buy them again—and a few others won't be making it back into my cart anytime soon. See what topped my list as the best frozen chicken tenders—after all, the answer surprised even me.

Related: I Tried 6 Grocery Store Rotisserie Chickens and the Winner Totally Shocked Me

How I Chose the Chicken Tenders

Courtesy Fred Hernandez

I wanted this taste test to include a mix of major national brands, store brands and gluten-free options that people could realistically find at regular grocery stores. Most of the chicken tenders and strips came from Target, Walmart, Aldi, Albertsons and Sprouts because those are stores a lot of shoppers already frequent.

I also tried to include a range of price points. Some bags cost almost as much as a fast-food meal, while others were much more budget-friendly.

You’ll notice this ranking includes both “tenders” and “strips.” A lot of brands use those names interchangeably, so if it looked and ate like a chicken tender, it made the list.

I also included a few gluten-free options because frozen gluten-free chicken can be especially inconsistent when it comes to breading and texture. I noticed that crispiness was definitely a factor that was harder to pull off without traditional breading.

Related: The Italian Way To Make Chicken Thighs 10x Better

How I Tested the Chicken Tenders

I cooked every chicken tender in the air fryer because that’s how I’d realistically make frozen tenders at home most of the time. For brands that included air fryer instructions, I followed the package directions. A few didn’t, so I made my best judgment based on similar products.

I also tasted every tender plain first with no dipping sauce so the breading, seasoning and chicken texture could stand on their own. If a chicken tender needed a condiment to save it, that definitely affected the ranking.

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Parade

14 Frozen Chicken Tenders, Ranked Worst to Best

Here's my ranking of the 14 frozen chicken tenders I taste-tested.

14. Sprouts Gluten Free Chicken Tenders

Courtesy Fred Hernandez

These started out promising in the air fryer, but the texture ended up holding them back for me. The breading was fairly thin and crisp, but the chicken itself had that dense, formed texture that felt closer to a nugget than an actual chicken strip. The salt level also started to stand out after a few bites. I could see these working better dipped in sauce, but on their own, they were harder to keep going back to for more.

13. Tyson High-Protein Chicken Breast Strips

Courtesy Fred Hernandez

These felt more like a meal-prep protein option than a chicken tender I’d actually crave. The breading was pretty minimal, and the chicken had a chewy texture that became harder to get through after a few bites.

There was also an "off" flavor I couldn’t stop noticing while eating them, especially compared to the higher-ranked tenders on this list. If you care more about macros than texture, these might work for you, but they didn’t really satisfy the chicken tender craving for me.

12. Bettergoods Gluten Free Chicken Tenders

Courtesy Fred Hernandez

Bettergoods had a decent crunch coming out of the air fryer, but the flavor didn’t stand out much on its own. I was expecting a bit more from this more premium Walmart offering. The chicken texture also felt a little too uniform compared to the higher-ranked tenders on this list. These weren’t horrible by any means, but they definitely tasted better with dipping sauce than plain.

Related: 40+ Easy Dinner Recipes That Start With Shredded Chicken

11. Applegate Organic Chicken Strips

Courtesy Fred Hernandez

I wanted to like these more than I did, especially considering the cleaner ingredients and higher price tag. The breading was softer than I expected in the air fryer, and the chicken had a texture and flavor that felt a little off and dense after a few bites. These weren’t terrible, but they also weren’t memorable enough for me to reach for again.

10. Tyson Crispy Chicken Breast Strips

Courtesy Fred Hernandez

Tyson’s crispy strips had thick, lumpy breading that got pretty crunchy in the air fryer, but the chicken itself was denser and chewier than I wanted from a chicken tender. The flavor was also surprisingly mild, especially considering how heavily breaded they looked. These weren’t bad, but after trying them next to stronger brands, they ended up feeling pretty forgettable.

9. Just Bare Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Strips

Courtesy Fred Hernandez

Just Bare has a huge fanbase online, and after trying them, I understood why. The chicken tasted less processed than a lot of the other brands, and the lighter breading let the texture of the chicken stand out more.

That said, I personally wanted a little more crunch and seasoning from a chicken tender. These were still solid, but a few other brands ended up being more satisfying for me straight out of the air fryer.

8. Perdue Organic Simply Smart Gluten Free Chicken Tenders

Courtesy Fred Hernandez

These ended up being one of the better gluten-free options from the entire taste test. The breading actually crisped up pretty well in the air fryer, and the chicken had a more natural texture than a few of the lower-ranked gluten-free tenders. I still wanted a little more seasoning overall, but these felt much closer to a regular frozen chicken tender than I expected going in.

Related: I Tried 10 Frozen Chicken Pot Pies and Ranked Them Worst to Best

7. Realgood Foods Co. Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Strips

Courtesy Fred Hernandez

These definitely tasted more like a healthier frozen chicken strip than a comfort-food chicken tender. The lighter breading let the chicken texture stand out more. A few strips were juicy, while others turned a little chewy and dry due to the size differences. They were OK, but I didn't keep reaching back for more during the taste test.

6. Kirkwood Crispy Chicken Strips

Courtesy Fred Hernandez

Kirkwood ended up being one of the better surprises from the entire taste test, especially for the price. (Thank you, Aldi.) The breading got really crispy in the air fryer and had a noticeable peppery seasoning that kept them from tasting bland. The chicken stayed fairly juicy too, although the seasoning was slightly saltier than I usually prefer.

These felt much closer to the kind of frozen chicken strips I’d actually keep stocked for an easy dinner or snack.

5. Perdue Crispy Chicken Strips

Courtesy Fred Hernandez

Perdue’s crispy strips felt like a better version of the classic frozen chicken strips I grew up eating. The breading got really crunchy in the air fryer, and the chicken stayed noticeably juicier than Tyson’s during the side-by-side tasting.

I also liked that the strips varied in size and shape instead of looking overly uniform. They were slightly saltier than I normally prefer, but overall these made it really easy to keep reaching for more.

4. Good & Gather Crispy Chicken Breast Strips

Courtesy Fred Hernandez

Target's Good & Gather option ended up being way better than I expected from a store-brand frozen chicken strip. The breading crisped up nicely in the air fryer, and the chicken had a chunkier, meatier texture that felt closer to actual chicken breast than a few of the denser tenders lower on this list. These also had a good salt balance, which made them really easy to keep snacking on.

Related: 11 Popular Fast-Food Chicken Sandwiches, Ranked Worst to Best

3. Foster Farms Crispy Strips

Courtesy Fred Hernandez

Foster Farms had one of the crispier breading options of the entire taste test. The strips were crunchy, and the chicken tasted juicier than a lot of the other brands I tried back to back. These also felt closer to fast-food chicken strips than typical frozen tenders, which made them really easy to keep eating.

2. Great Value Fully Cooked Crispy Chicken Strips

Courtesy Fred Hernandez

I wasn’t expecting Walmart’s Great Value chicken strips to rank this high, but they ended up being one of the better bags from the entire taste test. The breading had good crunch and seasoning with visible herbs throughout, and the chicken stayed juicy in the air fryer without tasting overly processed.

A lot of online reviews and Reddit users also praise the crispiness and texture, with several people comparing Walmart’s frozen chicken to fast-food tenders.

1. Caulipower Lightly Breaded Chicken Tenders

Courtesy Fred Hernandez

Caulipower ended up being the biggest surprise of the entire taste test. The tenders crisped up really well in the air fryer, the chicken stayed juicy, and the cauliflower-based breading tasted lighter and less greasy than many of the other brands. A lot of gluten-free frozen chicken struggles texture-wise, but these actually held up surprisingly well and tasted closer to restaurant tenders than I expected.

Final Takeaways

After trying 14 different frozen chicken tenders, I can confidently say they’re not all created equal. I found a few I’d actually keep stocked in my freezer, and a few I probably wouldn’t buy again. Hopefully this ranking helps you avoid wasting money on the wrong bag the next time you're craving some chicken tenders.

Up Next:

Related: 40 Fun Chicken Breast Recipes to Make Dinner a Lot Less Boring

Season 3 of Perfect Match had a weird start. A Love Is Blindreunion showed a clip of Ollie Sutherland proposing to A.D. It was confusing since they met on Perfect Match Season 3, which hadn't been released yet.

Season 4 of the dating show has started, and A.D. Sutherland reacted to it on her podcast. But she claimed the reactions to her situation were different from those of this new cast.

Warning: dating spoilers for Yamen and Bri!

Yamen and Bri's 'Perfect Match' Spoilers

A.D. talked to Sandy Gallagher on What's the Reality? "Also, we need to all keep the same energy about who is ruining the show and who's giving spoilers because everybody was so mad that Ollie and I were out publicly before the show came out," she said.

Related: ‘Love Is Blind’: Chelsea and Kwame’s Marriage ‘Is Coming to an End’

"They were like, 'We're not [going to] watch it! We already know,'" the host said. "And I'm sorry there's two people on the show. Two people on the show that are in open relationships right now."

She named Yamen Sanders as one because he was on Love Island: All Stars and started dating Whitney Adebayo. They are currently still together as Perfect Match streams. A.D. also noted that Whitney's ex, Lochan Nowacki dated Bri Balram publicly before Perfect Match's release.

A.D. said she can't talk negatively about them because she was already engaged and pregnant when her season came out. But Sandy did have something to say. "They shouldn't be allowed to do all these shows after so quickly," The Ultimatum alum said.

The question remains: which couple will win the free trip at the end of the season? But whether Yamen and Bri are dating someone from this cast is another story.

Related: ‘Perfect Match’: Ally Reveals What ‘Annoyed’ Her About Dating Jimmy in Season 4

Dystopian, haunting, and filled with political commentary, Margaret Atwood's 1985 work of speculative fiction, The Handmaid's Tale, has be subject to controversy and commentary since its publication 41 years ago. So much so that Goodreads listed it among the "Best Banned or Challenged" books.

From 1990 to 2000, The Handmaid's Tale was in the top 40 of the "100 Most Frequently Challenged Books" according to the American Library Association. However as early as 2019 the book was still in the top ten of the most frequently banned or censored stories given the violence, sexuality, and "vulgar nature" of the novel. In the United States, The Handmaid's Tale has been banned in libraries in schools in Florida, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Wyoming, Wisconsin, Virginia, Missouri, and Utah. In the Spring of 2026, the state of Utah completely banned the book from all public schools citing "objective sensitive material" as a reason.

Despite the frequency at which the work is challenged and the mature themes, The Handmaid's Tale remains consistently a part of AP Literature courses across the country. Atwood was subjected to censored education of her own in the 1950s, but has stated that this combined with the banning of her own work has never altered or impacted what she chooses to focus on in her writing.

In part as commentary on the banning of The Handmaid's Tale and other works, in 2022 Atwood and Penguin Random House worked together on an "un-burnable" copy of the book as a demonstration against book banning. Penguin Random House said, “Printed and bound using fireproof materials, this edition of Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale was made to be completely un-burnable. It is designed to protect this vital story and stand as a powerful symbol against censorship.” The piece sold for $130,000 at auction.

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The Handmaid’s Tale is a dystopian story following Offred, a woman who is attempting to survive in the Republic of Gilead, a fictitious theocratic regime that overthrew the U.S. government. In Gilead, women are ranked as one of the lowest classes and cannot own property, read, or write. Offred and other fertile women like her are considered valuable due to environmental crises and plummeting birth rates, and are subsequently enslaved as "Handmaids" and assigned to high-ranking, powerful men to bear children.

Many critics consider The Handmaid's Tale to be Atwood's best piece of work, and the novel that truly cemented her as one of the greats of the 20th century. The novel was nominated for a Booker, a Nebula Award, and won the Arthur C. Clarke Award for fiction. In 2017, the novel was adapted for TV on Hulu, and the series went on to be critically acclaimed.

While The Handmaid's Tale is not a book one reads expecting something light and easy, its important themes and commentary have made it a staple, despite the frequent attempts to make it the opposite.

Related: 7 Books To Read After When You Need Something More Like ‘The Handmaid’s Tale'

In 1975, Peter Frampton wrote one of the most recognizable soft rock songs of the decade in just 20 minutes.

"Show Me the Way" would eventually become a defining anthem of 1970s rock radio, but its path to success was far from straightforward.

Frampton later recalled that the song first came together while he was staying in the Bahamas at a beach cottage owned by Steve Marriott of Humble Pie.

At the time, Frampton was hoping for a productive songwriting retreat, but frequent visits from Alvin Lee of Ten Years After initially got in the way.

Then inspiration suddenly struck.

"The day after Alvin left, I picked up my acoustic guitar, and within about 20 minutes I came up with the opening chord sequence to Show Me The Way, and a verse and a chorus of lyrics,” Frampton later told Classic Rock.

Remarkably, the same day would produce another future classic. Frampton said he later sat beneath a palm tree at sunset and wrote "Baby, I Love Your Way" as well. But one of the song's most iconic elements, the famous talk box guitar effect, didn’t emerge until later, after Frampton returned to England to continue recording.

"Bob [Heil] gave me [a talk box] as a Christmas present, probably in 1973," Frampton told Guitars Exchange. "I took it and locked myself in a rehearsal room for probably a week and I came out talking with it."

The song was recorded at Clearwell Castle in Gloucestershire using Ronnie Lane's mobile studio, partially because Frampton admired the huge, open production sound Led Zeppelin achieved on their own recordings. Ironically, the original studio version of "Show Me the Way" initially failed when released as a single.

"A year before Frampton Comes Alive! we had released the studio version of 'Show Me The Way 'as a single… and it totally tanked. Nothing," Frampton later admitted.

Everything changed in 1976 when the live version appeared on Frampton Comes Alive!, one of the biggest-selling live albums in rock history. The energetic live performance transformed the song into a massive hit and permanently linked Frampton with the talk box sound that became his signature.

Nearly 50 years later, "Show Me the Way" remains one of classic rock's defining soft rock anthems, a song born from a rare burst of inspiration on a quiet island afternoon.

Related: 1971 Soft Rock Classic, Banned by Some Radio Stations, Became a No. 1 Hit

John Travolta's new look is getting a lot of attention, and the movie legend just debuted another new beret on the red carpet in Cannes.

The legendary actor, 72, a movie icon with roles ranging from Pulp Fiction and Saturday Night Fever to Grease and Look Who’s Talking under his belt, has caused quite a stir at the Cannes Film Festival. He's there as the director of Propeller One-Way Night Coach, his new film that features Ella Bleu Travolta, his stunning 26-year-old daughter with his late wife, Kelly Preston. While Ella tackles the role of a flight attendant in the film, she's been working the red carpet throughout the iconic film festival with her dad.

After hitting the red carpet at the Karma premiere in a white beret, Travolta showed us he has another piece of fancy headgear where that came from. The actor hit the photocall at Palais des Festivals for Propeller One-Way Night Coach on Saturday in a black beret. We're hoping he brought an entire collection of hats with him to France. Or as we're hoping he calls them, chapeaux!

Photo by Mike Marsland on Getty Images

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Travolta was Moved to Tears Onstage

Travolta was awarded an honorary Palme d’Or, the festival's most coveted honor.

"I can’t believe this. This is the last thing I expected," he told the crowd, as seen in a video shared by Variety.

John Travolta cries as he accepts his surprise Palme d’Or at #Cannes: “This is beyond the Oscar”https://t.co/K2FMG42GC1 pic.twitter.com/bFdbEkj0Np

— Variety (@Variety) May 15, 2026

While thanking Cannes director Thierry Fremaux, Travolta described the moment as "humbling" and shared, "This is beyond the Oscar," USA Today reported. "When I met with you in November, I had no expectation that my film would be accepted. And when Thierry said it was not only accepted but it was making history because it would be the first film ever accepted that early, I cried like a baby because I just couldn’t believe it. Because in my opinion, you are the most discerning person in the movie industry. I was just happy to be here! I never expected this."

Related: Quote of the Day: John Travolta on Grief and Healing

What is John Travolta’s New Film About?

“Young airplane enthusiast Jeff (newcomer Clark Shotwell) and his mother (Kelly Eviston-Quinnett) set off on a one-way cross-country odyssey to Hollywood, which transforms a simple flight into the trip of a lifetime,” reads an official synopsis for the movie. “Between airline meals, charming flight attendants (played by Ella Bleu Travolta and Olga Hoffmann), unexpected stopovers, larger-than-life passengers, and a thrilling glimpse at first class, the journey unfolds in moments both magical and unexpected, charting the course for the boy’s future.”

Check out Ella Bleu in the trailer for her father's film below, which will premiere on Apple TV on May 29.

Related: John Travolta Debuts New Look Alongside His Stunning Daughter, Ella Bleu, on the Red Carpet

There are series finales and series finales and by that, I mean that some series finales come and go and then there are those like Lost and The Sopranos that continue to engender conversations as viewers try to decipher what really happened.

The Outlander finale appears to be in that vein as longtime fans of the series try to conclude whether when Jamie (Sam Heughan) and Claire Fraser (Caitríona Balfe) open their eyes and gasp for breath in the last second on screen, they are alive on earth or somewhere else, like heaven.

For showrunner/executive producer Matthew B. Roberts, he explained to the industry audience attending  the Outlander FYC event at the Linwood Dunn Theatre in Hollywood the night the finale aired on STARZ that he wanted to leave the ending “open to interpretation.”

⚔️Don’t miss our Outlander newsletter for access to exclusive news, interviews, insider info from Diana Gabaldon and more – sign up now!⚔️ 

The Battle of Kings Mountain ends with the Patriots emerging victoriously and Jamie very much alive. He has knocked Major Patrick Ferguson (Charles Aitken) off his horse, and while Ferguson is sitting on the ground, Jamie asks him, “Do you surrender?” Ferguson yells, “I will never surrender,” and pulls a hidden pistol out and shoots Jamie in the heart. He is promptly killed by Buck (Diarmaid Murtagh), Ian (John Bell) and one of the Beardsley twins (Paul Gorman), who are justified in their overkill.

Then Claire, who was making her way down the hill to the medical tents to tend the wounded, clutches at her heart, realizing something has happened to Jamie, and she makes her way back to him, where he’s lying dying on the ground. He tells her, “I’m sorry,” and she begs him not to leave. But he dies…or does he?

Claire refuses to leave him, despite Roger (Richard Rankin) telling her they need to take him home, there are things that need to be done, but Claire refused saying, “He’s home.” She lie with him for hours and she appeared to die, too.

There’s a montage of their life together and we even go back to the ghost at the beginning of the series, where it all began, and now we see it’s Jamie, who caused the Forget-Me-Nots to bloom that attracted Claire to the stones in the first place.

Then, just as the screen fades to black, Jamie and Claire open their eyes and gasp in a breath of air, and you can see that Claire’s hair has turned completely white, which means she’s fully come into her powers as the La Dame Blanche, aka the White Witch.

So, what does it mean?

“I wanted the whole show, the whole series, to mean something,” Roberts added, expanding on the idea of leaving the finale open to interpretation. “It was important that the finale was a part of that. I didn't want to do a very special episode and make it something different. I wanted it to fit, but also over the years, I’ve learned there's fan interaction. They get something out of it when they watch it. It felt like a different kind of show. They want things that they can watch over and over. They felt something when they were watching and we felt something when we were making it, so at the end of the day, you wanted it to mean something to someone.

Related: Outlander Author Diana Gabaldon Reveals the Finale Ending She Fought For (Exclusive)

“Over the years, I've heard the comments that you should have done this and you should have done that, and that's great because they're interacting, and so now [with the finale] you get to participate. You get to make your own ending. What does it mean to you? If you want the sad ending, it’s sad; if you want the happy ending, it’s happy. Do they live on forever? Maybe they do. Did they die? Maybe they do. Are they in heaven? I don’t know. You tell me. That’s what the ending is to me.”

For Balfe, the key is that they are always together, she said, “We've always said that their love is metaphysical. It's beyond anything we can imagine it and I think you know in the world of mysticism and energy and what lives in what kind of context, I think it's nice that they exist everywhere.”

Heughan passed on the question.

Of course, the final book in the Outlander series has yet to be released. Bestselling author Diana Gabaldon, who created the world where Jamie and Claire exist, is currently working on it. So the question was broached, “Would you return to the Outlander world when the book is finally released?”

Initially, Heughan joked, "I can't go through this again.“ But then added on the more serious side, "Never say never." And Balfe, echoed that, saying, “Our eyes opened, so never say never.”

All eight seasons of Outlander are currently streaming exclusively on STARZ.

Next, Outlander Spinoff Blood of My Blood Debuts Emotional First Look at Season 2

Weekends are the perfect time to binge-watch a brand new show that everyone is talking about. Right now, Off Campus is the series taking over TV screens around the world.

Season 1 of the Prime Video show debuted on Wednesday, May 13. Just days later, the series is ranked No. 1 worldwide among TV shows on the streaming platform and is certified fresh by Rotten Tomatoes with a 95 percent rating as of Saturday, May 16.

With eight episodes in its first season, viewers can easily binge them all over a weekend—and even have time left over for a rewatch.

Off Campus follows Briar University hockey player Garrett Graham (Belmont Cameli) and music major Hannah Wells (Ella Bright) as they make a deal. She agrees to tutor him if he pretends to be her boyfriend to catch the attention of her crush, Justin Kohl (Josh Heuston). Garrett’s hockey teammates/roommates, John Logan (Antonio Cipriano), Dean Di Laurentis (Stephen Kalyn) and John Tucker (Jalen Thomas Brooks), as well as Hannah’s roommate/bestie, Allie Hayes (Mika Abdalla), round out the stellar cast.

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The first season of the collegiate soap is based on Elle Kennedy’s 2015 bestselling book The Deal. The Off Campus novels feature the love stories of not only Garrett and Hannah but also Logan and Grace Ivers in 2015’s The Mistake, Dean and Allie in 2016’s The Score and Tucker and Sabrina James in 2016’s The Goal. The fifth book in the series, 2021’s The Legacy, follows each of the four main couples in interconnected novellas.

Prior to Off Campus’ debut, Kennedy spoke exclusively to Parade about the adaptation of her beloved book.

“Oh my gosh, [the cast’s] chemistry is incredible,” she teased in the March interview. “The couples, of course, have amazing chemistry, but I was so happy to see the way Hannah and Allie’s close friendship from the book resonates on the screen. Ella and Mika really captured how much these two girls love each other. Same for the boys! The actors brought the tight-knit hockey bromance to life.”

Liane Hentscher/Prime

As for the changes made while bringing the story from the page to the screen, Kennedy emphasized that the elements readers loved in The Deal would translate to the show.

“Adapting a book for television always involves some creative changes, and that process was led by the team at Amazon,” she explained. “From what I’ve seen, the core dynamics of The Deal that fans love so much are still there.”

Prime Video has already renewed Off Campus for season 2, with the streamer announcing the news in February. Two months later, India Fowler was officially cast as Logan’s love interest, Grace, for the second season.

Cameli, 28, and Bright, 19, confirmed during their Friday, May 15, Today show appearance that season 2 will begin filming later this month.

“We’ll be there in a few days,” Cameli revealed, while Bright added, “I’ve got two [scripts] in my inbox that I have yet to read because of this press tour, but [I will] when I fly home.”

Season 1 of Off Campus is now streaming on Prime Video.

Fresca is ready to play hard ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and score big with fans all summer long.

Introduced earlier this week as a "crisp" new adult beverage, Fresca Hard is "light yet satisfying" without sacrificing flavor. Think it sounds familiar? Well, this isn't the popular citrus-flavored soft drink's first foray into the alcohol aisle. It previously launched the ready-to-drink cocktail line, Fresca Mixed Vodka Spritz, and now it's expanding with a malt-based beverage in four new "bold" and "delicious" flavors.

"Fresca Hard's launch reflects our continued commitment to delivering amazing tasting beverages while pushing further into the Alcohol Ready-To-Drink category," Lou Grill, president of Red Tree Beverages (a subsidiary of The Coca-Cola Company, which produces the Fresca brand), shared in a statement, teasing, "Regardless of the score, Fresca Hard is meant for those who love the post-game celebration."

Fresca Hard Debuts in 4 Fruity Flavors

According to Grill, the new flavored malt beverage brings a "new, exciting option with bold, delicious flavors" to the beverage aisle this summer.

Related: Topo Chico Hard Unveils New Look, Stronger Recipe Ahead of National Margarita Day

The flavored malt beverage is said to feature the "classic citrus taste of Fresca" with 4.6 percent alcohol by volume (ABV), delivering a "refreshingly full-flavored drink" that contains only 99 calories, 2.1 grams of carbs and zero sugar per 12-ounce can.

It is debuting in Grapefruit Citrus, Pineapple Citrus, Peach Citrus and Watermelon Citrus flavors.

Fresca Hard debuts in four flavors: Grapefruit Citrus, Pineapple Citrus, Peach Citrus and Watermelon Citrus.

Red Tree Beverages

Fresca Hard is expected to be available in the coming weeks, if not already, in 12-pack varieties of 12-ounce cans at stores nationwide, including local beer and liquor retailers and Total Wine (prices may vary).

Next:New High Noon Release Takes on a Popular Country Club Cocktail

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If you’ve been looking for an easy way to make clutter disappear without taking over your whole room this spring cleaning season, Walmart has Costway’s 10-Drawer Rolling Storage Cart on sale starting at $41 (was $69). It comes in 12 color options, including rainbow, hot pink, macaron, clear, white, purple, yellow, and more.

The cart is designed to be compact while still offering plenty of storage. It measures 15 inches long by 13 inches wide and 34 inches high, with a wide top surface for easy access to your most-used items. The metal frame provides stability, and the drawers are removable. Plus, the four wheels make it easy to roll from room to room, and two are lockable to keep the cart from rolling away.

Costway 10-Drawer Rolling Storage Cart, From $41 (was $69) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Teachers use it to separate markers, worksheets, and classroom extras. Crafters appreciate being able to organize supplies by category, such as sewing tools in one drawer, beads in another, and paint supplies in their own section. It also works well as a small tool organizer or a rolling beauty setup if you’re trying to keep makeup, hair styling items, or skincare in one place.

Shoppers have said it’s “very cute and functional” and “perfect to keep paper, stickers, and all supplies organized.” One reviewer wrote, “This is great for all my craft needs. Everything is organized and in one place,” noting, “It was very easy to assemble.”

Related: Walmart Has a 'Lightweight' Portable Grill for $39 Ahead of Memorial Day Weekend

You can tuck it next to a desk as an “everything drawer” station, roll it into a closet when company comes over, or use the colorful versions to brighten up a craft corner. It’s also a super clean way to store trays, tools, and backups without mixing everything together.

Costway’s 10-Drawer Rolling Storage Cart is a super practical purchase if you’re looking to get organized this spring cleaning season, and at $41 for a majority of the colorways, now is a great time to grab it. Be sure to snag yours now at Walmart before the price goes back up. Happy organizing! 

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HGTV star Alison Victoria was fired as the co-host of Battle on the Beach—and she's explaining what happened.

“I said that 'Battle on the Beach' was canceled," she told the Daily Mail. "Now, that word should not have been used. I should have said it was ‘not renewed.’ That’s the language that I should have used."

Indeed, Victoria had made some comments about the show on her Pap Smear podcast in July 2025.

"I did a show called Battle on the Beach. I love that show. It was so fun and funny. And then all of a sudden, I watched the episode, I’m like, ‘Well, where’d all that [great content] go?’ I get it, it’s a lot of content to try to put into 42 minutes, but where is it? Where’s the great editing?” she said on the July 1 episode.

"You’ll lose a show that way. I truly believe that," she continued. "And 'Battle on the Beach' did not get picked back up, which is sad because it was like adult spring break. I believe it was all editing. You have it, use it. Be funny, use the funny, go with us on that journey because it’s most likely going to resonate with the viewer."

Victoria said that she didn't have any hard feelings after she was let go.

“I didn’t feel mad, I didn’t feel sad. I just was like, ‘OK,'" she told the Daily Mail.

Victoria is still associated with HGTV and is waiting to see if her series Sin City Rehab gets renewed. As for Battle on the Beach, the show, which was recently renewed, will feature Ty Pennington, Sarah Baeumler, and Mika Kleinschmidt as hosts/mentors on its upcoming season. It will air beginning on June 1.

Puzzles—they're often thought of as something for little kids and older adults. Brain games can keep a little kid occupied so their caretakers can shower with the door closed, and they can keep an older adult's mind sharp. But one neuropsychologist stresses that people of all ages can reap the psychological benefits of doing puzzles.

"Puzzles are one of those things that are quietly doing a lot more for you than you realize," Dr. Sanam Hafeez, Psy.D., a neuropsychologist and director of Comprehend the Mind, tells Parade. "Your memory, focus and problem-solving are all getting a workout at the same time without it feeling like work."

Dr. Hafeez shares that research suggests that keeping the brain active can slow cognitive decline as you get older.

"The best part about it is that it doesn't feel like a chore," she explains. "It's just something you enjoy doing."

Zooming out, she loves the enjoyment factor of hobbies, more generally.

"Hobbies give your brain something to look forward to, which matters more than people [think]," Dr. Hafeez says. "They pull you out of your own head when stress or worry starts to pile up. There's also a quiet sense of accomplishment that comes from getting better at something you enjoy."

And you can certainly get a sense of accomplishment from completing a jigsaw puzzle or a daily crossword. If they're not currently a go-to hobby, you may be interested in making them one after reading Dr. Hafeez's insights. Scroll on to learn more about the psychological benefits of doing puzzles.

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

What Are Some Key Types of 'Mental Health Puzzles'?

There are tons of puzzles that can benefit your mental health, and the best one for you is the one you enjoy the most. But Dr. Hafeez loves five types of puzzles for people who need a mental health reset.

1. Crossword puzzles. Dr. Hafeez says these word-based puzzles require you to fill a grid using clues, so they're great for vocabulary, memory and building general knowledge (Next up: Trivia Night glory).
2. Sudoku. For the uninitiated, Sudoku is a logic puzzle. There's a grid, and you'll fill it in using numbers 1 to 9. Good news for some: "No math is needed—it's all about pattern recognition and focus," Dr. Hafeez says.
3. Memory card games. Memory-card games are childhood classics, and sports teams often use them to let fans watching the game in person compete for prizes during breaks in the action. But people of any age can enjoy them at home. "You'll flip cards to find matching pairs while remembering where everything is," Dr. Hafeez explains. "This game directly trains short-term memory and concentration."
4. Word search. Scan a grid full of letters to pinpoint hidden words running across, diagonally, backward and more. It's a fun riff on hide-and-seek. "Word searches are low-stress but great for attention and visual focus," Dr. Hafeez says.
5. Logic grid puzzles. Dr. Hafeez says that, to do these puzzles, you'll use clues to figure out how different elements connect. "They require methodical thinking and are excellent for reasoning skills," she explains.

Related: The 16 Best ‘Analog Hobbies’ to Pick Up in 2026

Westend61/Getty Images

Are There Mental Benefits to Doing Puzzles?

Dr. Hafeez says there are real mental benefits to doing puzzles, sharing, "They push your brain to think critically, recognize patterns and stay focused. all of which strengthen cognitive function over time."

When you regularly engage with a mental activity, Dr. Hafeez says you're less likely to experience a rapid cognitive decline. You're also more likely to have a better memory and improved mood.

"There's also something to be said for the satisfaction of finishing one, which gives you a small but genuine confidence boost," she notes.

That said, puzzles aren't a magic cure, and Dr. Hafeez believes it's worth understanding their limits.

"The brain is good at getting efficient, meaning the more you do the same type of puzzle, the less of a workout it actually becomes," she concedes. "If you're doing the same crossword difficulty every day for years, you're probably more in autopilot than you think. Switching up the type and difficulty level matters a lot if you actually want to keep challenging yourself."

Related: Psychologist Says if You Instantly Forget Someone’s Name After Meeting Them, You Likely Have These 9 Traits

What Type of Person Is Good at Doing Puzzles?

Lots of people can be "good" at doing puzzles. But honestly? Curiosity might matter more than anything else," Dr. Hafeez notes. "People who actually enjoy not knowing the answer yet are the ones who stick with it. It's not really about being smart. It's about being someone who finds the process satisfying rather than annoying."

That being said, she adds that specific types of people often have a natural leg up when solving puzzles. 

"Patient people tend to do well with puzzles simply because they're okay with things taking time," she explains. "Logical thinkers have a natural edge too, since a lot of it comes down to eliminating what doesn't work until something does."

Related: Psychologist Says if You Instantly Forget Why You Walked Into a Room, You Likely Have These 7 Traits

Do People With ADHD Like Jigsaws?

They certainly can. "It's actually more common than you'd think—a lot of people with ADHD genuinely enjoy jigsaw puzzles, even if it seems like the kind of quiet, slow activity that wouldn't suit them," says Dr. Hafeez, who regularly sees people with ADHD in her practice.

Some reasons why people with ADHD may love puzzles include:

• Puzzles let their hyperfocus kick in. Dr. Hafeez shares that people with ADHD have brains that are "wired for hyperfocus when something is visually stimulating enough, and jigsaws can trigger exactly that." She credits the constant visual searching and sorting that keeps the brain busy enough to remain dialed in.
• They're hands-on. When people with ADHD use their hands, Dr. Hafeez notes, they often perform the task better. Jigsaws provide that opportunity because you have to physically sort, flip and place pieces.
• Puzzles provide quick, visible progress. People with ADHD can struggle with delayed gratification, but puzzles can provide a quick reward—and added motivation. "Every piece placed is instant, visible proof that you're getting somewhere," she notes.

That said, some people with ADHD may not like jigsaw puzzles. For some, Dr. Hafeez says the middle stretch of the puzzle is "brutal."

"Once the easy edges are done and you're staring at 400 similar-looking pieces, the novelty wears off fast," she notes. "That's usually where ADHD impatience takes over, and the puzzle gets abandoned on the dining room table for two weeks."

Related: Psychologist Says if You Can Never Sit Still During Phone Conversations, You Likely Have These 9 Traits

7 Psychological Benefits of Doing Puzzles, According to a Psychologist1. You might reduce stress

Daily living gives us plenty of reasons for stress—especially these days. Puzzles provide a reprieve.

"Puzzles pull your focus into one simple task, giving your brain a break from everything else," Dr. Hafeez says. "That kind of quiet concentration actually lowers cortisol levels. It's almost meditative without having to sit still and 'do nothing.'"

2. You could notice an improvement in memory

Forget me not? You may have an easier time remembering names, faces and why the heck you walked into a room if you give puzzles the old college try.

"Puzzles constantly ask your brain to recall shapes, words, patterns and positions," Dr. Hafeez explains. "That repetition strengthens the neural connections involved in memory. Over time, that translates to better recall in everyday life, too."

Related: How To Play ‘Crossplay,’ the New NYT Word Game

3. You'll enjoy a mood boost

Dopamine, delivered—without looking at your TikTok or Instagram follower count.

"Every time you place a piece or solve a clue, your brain releases a small hit of dopamine," Dr. Hafeez says. "That feeling of progress, however small, genuinely lifts your mood. It adds up more than people realize."

Related: People Who Stay 'Genuinely Joyful' in Their 50s and Beyond Usually Adopt These 8 Habits, Psychologists Say

4. You'll practice patience

It's unlikely you'll complete a 300-page crossword puzzle in one morning or a 1,000-piece puzzle in a sitting. There's a psychological benefit to doing things that don't reward rushing.

"With puzzles, you have to slow down, whether you like it or not," Dr. Hafeez explains. "That teaches your brain to sit with frustration without immediately giving up. It's a surprisingly transferable skill for real life."

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

5. You'll sharpen your focus

A sharper focus is perhaps the best-known benefit of doing puzzles.

"Puzzles require sustained attention, which is something most people are genuinely losing in the age of scrolling," Dr. Hafeez explains. "Practicing that kind of deep focus regularly actually strengthens your attention span. Your brain gets better at the things you make it do consistently."

For instance, focus can help you improve impulse control, offer mental clarity and hone in on the people and things that matter most, giving you some massive psychological gains.

6. You'll increase self-confidence

Each time you put together a puzzle piece or find a word in a word search, you'll learn that you can do hard things. And when you complete the puzzle? "Finishing something hard gives you proof that you can work through a challenge," Dr. Hafeez notes. "That sounds simple, but it genuinely builds a sense of competence over time. Small wins matter more to your self-esteem than people give them credit for."

Related: People With ‘Quiet Confidence’ Often Use These 17 Phrases, According to Psychologists

7. Encourages mindfulness

Yes, it's a buzzword, but mindfulness matters when it comes to your psychological health, and puzzles are a gateway to it.

"When you're deep in a puzzle, you're not thinking about yesterday or tomorrow," Dr. Hafeez says. "You're just fully in the moment, trying to figure out where that one piece goes. That present-moment focus is basically mindfulness without calling it that."

Up Next:

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

Sources:

• Cognitive Health and Older Adults. National Institute on Aging.
• Dr. Sanam Hafeez, Psy.D., a neuropsychologist and director of Comprehend the Mind

Molly Sims certainly knows how to set the red carpet on fire.

The model and entrepreneur, 52, who just returned to the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue for the eighth time, hit the issue's launch party at the Hard Rock Hotel New York on Thursday night in New York City. However, it was her daring black outfit that captured the eyes of attendees. Sporting a sheer black dress that went from her neck to her toes, the blonde beauty kept a little bit covered up with strategically placed undergarments. She completed the look with her trademark long, blonde hair and chunky gold jewelry.

Photo by Stephanie Augello on Getty Images

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She Appeared in Sports Illustrated in 2001

Sims can offer plenty of advice to her fellow SI stars for 2026, who include fellow models like Haley Baylee, Lauren Chan, Jocelyn Corona, Olivia Dunne, Bethenny Frankel, Tiffany Haddish, Ilona Maher, Hunter McGrady, and Brooks Nader. The blonde beauty has put in her time as a pro on the runway and on the beach. During a 2024 appearance on the 9 to 5ish with theSkimm podcast, Sims opened up about deciding to appear in Sports Illustrated in 2001.

“If anybody’s listening to this podcast and they’re younger: take chances, say yes, because you never know where yes is going or where it will lead you. Then you’ll learn to say no in certain ways of not being taken advantage of or owning your own. Dig deep, work really hard, and don’t always go in with the outcome. Try to go through the ebbs and flows and up the mountain and down the mountain because that’s where your lessons are learned,” Sims explained.

Sims is Also a Beauty Entrepreneur

Sims is far from just a pretty face. She's the founder of YSE Beauty, which is designed for women 35+ seeking effective solutions without complicated routines. Since its founding in 2023, the brand has won 11 awards and raised over $3 million in seed funding, before closing a $15 million Series A round led by Silas Capital, Inc. shared back in April. The brand also landed a spot in Sephora in June 2025.

Naturally, her turn in Sports Illustrated is the best advertising ever.

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Related: Molly Sims, 52, Looks Almost Identical to Her Tween Daughter in Bright Pink Bikini

Few celebrities have a more storied relationship with their own hair than Jennifer Aniston. She has spent three decades setting trends (perhaps accidentally), and on Thursday she apparently decided to issue a public service announcement about one of them.

The Morning Show star, 57, shared an Instagram post on Thursday, May 14, reflecting on some of her most popular banged looks throughout the years. The actress kicked off her post with a photo of herself with brunette hair and bangs in the film Horrible Bosses, before sharing additional photos of her throughout the 2000s and 2010s with side bangs and curtain bangs.

Alongside a carousel of throwback photos showing her sporting fringe in her various film and television roles, Aniston captioned the post 'Think before you bang,' appearing to issue a gentle warning to anyone considering the cut. The final image in the post drove the point home; a cartoon of a turtle saying it took a hundred years to grow out the style.

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Aniston's infamous haircut was courtesy of her longtime stylist Chris McMillan, who previously admitted he was trying to convince her to try something different when he created 'The Rachel.' He acknowledged the look demanded maintenance from the start. 'It's high-maintenance, not a wash-and-go style,' he said. 'You need to blow-dry with a round brush to help define all those flicks.'

Aniston has been candid about that upkeep burden before. During a past appearance on the Graham Norton Show, she described McMillan's creative enthusiasm as something of a mixed blessing. 'He didn't think about, like, 'Oh she's going to have to do this herself. I'm having a great time being creative with this blowdryer.'

Related: Lisa Kudrow Says the 'Friends' Set Had a Dark Side Most Fans Never Knew About

Sandra Bullock quickly defended the hairstyle in the comments, writing simply, 'You wore them best.' Fans piled in to agree, with comments insisting Aniston looks 'amazing in any style.' One commenter summed up the online reaction: 'Jen's hair has been setting impossible standards for decades and somehow still keeps winning.'

Other fans were equally firm in their defense, with one writing, 'LOVE your bangs and I want them too now,' and another adding, 'No because your bangs are goals.'

Aniston launched her haircare brand, LolaVie, in 2021, and that has only deepened the association between her public identity and her hair. Whatever she thinks of the bangs, they clearly belong to the rest of us as much as they ever belonged to her.

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Nearly 50 after they first dominated pop radio, several of Michael Jackson’s biggest hits are suddenly climbing the Billboard Hot 100 once again.

For the Billboard Hot 100 dated May 16, Jackson currently has four songs on the chart, led by “Billie Jean” at No. 17, “Human Nature” at No. 29, “Beat It” at No. 32 and “Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough” at No. 42.

Three of the songs officially re-entered the chart this week, while “Billie Jean” continues climbing after returning to the Hot 100 earlier this month.

The renewed chart surge appears tied largely to the massive success of Michael, the new biopic chronicling Jackson’s rise from child star to global superstar. The film has sparked renewed streaming interest in Jackson’s catalog worldwide, helping push multiple classics back onto the charts simultaneously.

The King of Pop's chart resurgence is extending far beyond the Hot 100 singles chart. On the latest Billboard 200 chart, Jackson’s Number Ones compilation album climbed to No. 6, giving him a top 10 album in every decade since the 1970s.

According to Billboard, Jackson became just the fifth artist ever to achieve that milestone, joining Paul McCartney, The Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen and James Taylor. The renewed interest surrounding the Michael biopic has also pushed Thriller back into the top five for the first time since 1984, further proving that Jackson’s catalog remains one of the most commercially powerful in music history decades after its original release.

The biggest performer of Jackson's resurging singles remains “Billie Jean,” which originally spent seven weeks at No. 1 in 1983 and became one of the defining songs of the MTV era. The track also earned one of the week’s biggest streaming gains as audiences continue revisiting Jackson’s Thriller catalog.

“Human Nature,” now back at No. 29, originally peaked at No. 7 on the Hot 100 in 1983. Over the years, the dreamy synth-pop ballad has become one of Jackson’s most acclaimed songs thanks to its emotional atmosphere and influence on modern R&B and hip-hop.

Meanwhile, “Beat It” re-entered the chart at No. 32. The groundbreaking 1983 hit famously fused rock and pop, aided by Eddie Van Halen’s blistering guitar solo, and spent three weeks at No. 1 during its original chart run.

“Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough” returns at No. 42, more than four decades after first launching Jackson’s solo superstardom in 1979. The disco-funk smash became Jackson’s first solo No. 1 Hot 100 hit as an adult artist and helped establish the sound that would define Off the Wall and eventually Thriller.

The resurgence spans multiple eras of Jackson’s career. Few artists have managed to return so many catalog hits to the Hot 100 simultaneously decades after their original release.

The renewed success also highlights the enduring power of Jackson’s music across generations. While nostalgia spikes tied to movies are common, Jackson’s catalog continues performing at a level rarely seen for legacy artists.

The biopic stars Jaafar Jackson, the singer’s nephew, and follows Jackson’s rise from his Jackson 5 beginnings through the height of his solo superstardom.

For longtime fans, the chart comeback is another reminder of just how massive Jackson’s music remains. And for younger listeners discovering songs like “Beat It” and “Human Nature” for the first time, the resurgence may be introducing a whole new generation to one of pop music’s most influential catalogs.

Matcha is having a major moment right now, and honestly…as a registered dietitian, I’m here for it. This earthy, vibrant drink has taken over coffee shops across the country for good reason: it’s delicious, energizing and packed with antioxidants. And unlike coffee, it delivers a smoother, more sustained energy boost without the jitters.

But if you've ever ordered a standard Starbucks Iced Matcha Latte and wondered why it tastes so sweet, you're not imagining it—the classic version is loaded with sugar.

As a registered dietitian, I want my matcha to taste great and make me feel good (aka not leaving me with a sugar spike before 9 a.m). And with so many people looking for ways to enjoy their favorite drinks without the blood sugar crash, it's worth knowing exactly what's in your cup. That's why I love this lighter order inspired by @lazymillionaire, which gives you all the flavor, with way less sugar.

These small swaps make a big difference, and there's zero barista training or matcha-whisking skills required. Once you try it, you may never go back to the original.

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The Best Matcha Order at Starbucks, According to a Dietitian

Here’s my go-to matcha order that I’ve been recommending to everyone lately:

Grande Iced Matcha Latte with:

• Water instead of milk
• Sugar-free vanilla syrup
• No classic syrup
• Splash of your milk of choice

Think of it like a "matcha Americano" since we’re using water instead of milk. This lets the drink become more matcha-forward and gives you a bolder, more authentic flavor than the classic latte. It's still creamy and satisfying thanks to the splash of milk, just way less sweet.

One heads up: since you can't swap milk for water in the Starbucks app, you'll need to order this one in person. It's worth the extra step, though, I promise.

Related: We Asked 3 Cardiac Experts About the Best Dinner for Heart Health and They All Said the Same Thing

Estimated Nutrition Breakdown

The standard Iced Matcha Latte typically has around 160 calories and 25 grams of added sugar in a grande—all from the classic syrup. Swapping out the milk for water and skipping the classic makes a huge difference. Here's how this customized order breaks down (using skim milk for the calculations):

• ~25–30 calories
• ~1–2g sugar (no added sugars, this is naturally occurring sugar from the lactose in the dairy milk)
• ~2–3g protein
• ~80mg caffeine

Related: ‘I’m a Cardiologist—This Is the One Snack I Always Have on Hand To Keep My Blood Pressure Down’

3 Reasons Why I Love This Order as a Dietitian1. It leans into matcha's health benefits

Matcha isn’t just a pretty powder. It’s rich in antioxidants called catechins, particularly EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), which research shows may help reduce inflammation and support heart health. Matcha also contains a unique amino acid called L-theanine, which works alongside caffeine to promote calm, focused energy without the jittery spike you sometimes get from coffee.

2. It cuts sugar without cutting flavor

The standard Iced Matcha Latte at Starbucks contains classic syrup, which brings the total sugar up to 25 grams in a grande. That's already at the American Heart Association's daily recommended limit for women (25 grams) and over half the limit for men (36 grams)—just from your morning drink. By skipping the classic syrup and swapping in sugar-free vanilla syrup, you still get subtle sweetness while bringing the added sugar down to zero. 

3. It’s a gentler caffeine boost

With roughly 80 mg of caffeine from the matcha powder, this drink gives you a calm energy boost. The L-theanine in matcha also works alongside caffeine, with research suggesting the combo may give you a cleaner energy boost, without the jitters. It’s a great option if you’re sensitive to coffee or just want something a little lower in caffeine later in the day.

Related: Here’s Exactly What Happens to Your Body When You Drink Matcha Every Day

Tips for Ordering

• Order in person: Since water isn’t an option under the “milk” drop-down on the app, you’ll have to order this drink in person. 
• Want it creamier? Instead of water, keep the original milk. Just be sure to still remove the classic syrup pumps if you don’t want it sweet.
• Want more protein? Add your favorite protein cold foam on top. All flavors deliver 17-18 grams of protein, but keep in mind they also add 240-280 calories and anywhere from 3-22 grams of sugar, depending on the flavor. Sugar-free vanilla or plain (unflavored) is your best bet for keeping it light.
• Want it a bit sweeter? Ask for 2-3 pumps of sugar-free vanilla syrup instead of one. 

A Starbucks matcha latte can be a super refreshing summer beverage, and with a few simple swaps, you can turn it into something that aligns with your wellness goals. Use water instead of milk, skip the classic syrup and add sugar-free vanilla syrup.

You're left with a lighter, better-for-you matcha that still tastes like a treat. Just be sure to pair it with a protein and fiber-rich breakfast to round out your morning.

Up Next:

Sources:

• 
  Kochman, J., Jakubczyk, K., Antoniewicz, J., Mruk, H., & Janda, K. (2021). Health benefits and chemical composition of matcha green tea: A review. Molecules, 26(1), 85.
• Dodd, F. L., Kennedy, D. O., Riby, L. M., & Haskell-Ramsay, C. F. (2015). A double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluating the effects of caffeine and L-theanine both alone and in combination on cerebral blood flow, cognition and mood. Psychopharmacology, 232(14), 2563–2576.

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Finding a home decor piece that feels like it has a story is the best way to fill your space with life. When shopping, I always look for items that look like they could have been picked up on a trip. Bonus points if it's affordable. This one from H&M checks all the boxes. It feels warm, handmade and a little bit unique. At first glance, you would not guess it came from a major retailer.

The Hand-Painted Terracotta Serving Bowl from H&M has that exact charm. Priced at $49.99, this new arrival blends rustic texture with a simple but eye-catching design. The bowl is made of 100 percent terracotta, a porous clay material that has been used for centuries. The inside is glazed for a smooth finish, while the outside is left unglazed for a natural, earthy feel.

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What really makes the bowl stand out is the hand-painted dark blue fish motif. The fish swims across the warm clay surface in a way that feels relaxed and coastal. It instantly brings to mind long seaside lunches, fresh seafood and breezy kitchens near the water. The design is simple, but it makes a statement without feeling loud.

Hand-Painted Terracotta Serving Bowl, $49.99 at H&M Hand-painted terracotta bowl

H&M

Shop It!

A fish motif on terracotta naturally gives off Mediterranean vibes. It instantly transports you to your favorite sunny vacation spot, whether it's Italy, Greece or Spain. In these beautiful countries, bowls like this are used for serving olives, salads and fresh bread at family lunches or dinners.

Related: Aldi's Popular $15 Kitchen Essential Is Made for Summer Cookouts

Terracotta is warm and sun-baked, almost the color of the earth after a hot day. Because it is made from clay, it has a slightly imperfect texture that feels handmade and authentic. Even though this terracotta bowl is from H&M, it looks like something you might find in a small boutique tucked along a cobblestone street near the coast.

This stunning piece works as a serving bowl for pasta or roasted vegetables, but it could just as easily sit out on a counter filled with fruit. It feels decorative and functional at the same time. The glazed interior makes it easy to clean, while the sturdy terracotta body gives it weight and presence.

If you are trying to add a touch of travel-inspired style to your kitchen without booking a flight, this bowl offers an easy way to do it. It captures that relaxed Mediterranean spirit in a way that feels timeless and inviting.

Related: Kohl's Stylish Storage Ottoman Will Instantly Make Your Space Look More Expensive

America is celebrating its 250th birthday this summer, and that means a slew of red, white, and blue merch is about to hit a retailer near you. Trader Joe’s shoppers can get an early preview of all the July 4th holiday hoopla. The much-adored grocery store just dropped a new limited-time sugary snack, and it packs a patriotic punch.

Trader Joe’s Red, White, and Blue Cookie Bites just hit store shelves. Unlike refrigerated dough, this confection is completely shelf-stable, making it the perfect addition to your list of pantry staples. And you won’t get that doughy, squishiness here. This sweet has a snap to it. 

Trader Joe's Red, White, and Blue Cookie Bites. Photo: Erica Loop

Erica Loop

So what can you expect from this tiny treat? As the name implies, this new addition to TJ’s seasonal lineup is red, white, and blue. The trio of boldly-hued balls (courtesy of vegetable juice, spirulina, and annatto extract instead of chemicals and artificial colors) has a vanilla cookie center and either a cherry, lemon, or raspberry candy coating.

What Do Shoppers Think About Trader Joe’s New Treat?

The reviews are starting to pour in, and they’re, at best, mixed. As TJ’s shoppers know, the Trader Joe’s subreddit is a goldmine of info on new, seasonal, and fan favorite products. After trying this treat out (we’ll give it a solid seven for the not-overly-sugary flavor and kinda’ crunchy texture), we took a look at what Redditors had to say about this brand-new buy.

One Reddit user nailed their review, aptly describing the Red, White, and Blue Cookie Bites, “Reminds me of blueberry, cherry, and lime flavored malt balls with a cookie-like center instead of the typical chocolate coating.” And another TJ’s shopper played up the patriotic angle, “They taste like freedom, which tastes like Fruity Pebble malt balls.” 

Of course, the reviews weren’t all positive. Another Redditor wrote, “Didn’t like them at all. I thought they tasted like Flintstones vitamins.” Other shoppers seemed to agree that this isn’t the best the store has to offer, with one writing, “One of the few sweets from TJs I tried to finish and didn’t finish. They’re just kind of off.”

Not sure if you’re willing to spend $4.99 on the 10-ounce tub? Try them. Don't try them. Or, be a bit daring and fill your cart with some of Trader Joe’s other brand-new buys. 

Other May arrivals include a rich creamy Whipped Ricotta Cheese, frozen Potato Cheese Sticks (these really deserve a spot in your freezer), Passion Fruit Orange Guava Juice (it’s perfect for making summertime mocktails and cocktails), a decadent Lemon Tiramisu, Garlic Shrimp Chips, and Vanilla Mascarpone. FYI, if you’re already on a red, white, and blue Independence Day kick, Trader Joe’s Raspberry, Vanilla, and Blueberry Macarons are back in stock right now!

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos is addressing why the investigation into Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance remains unsolved. In a new interview, he acknowledged public frustration over the lack of answers but said the case requires a careful and thorough approach as it continues to develop.

“Nobody wants to make a false arrest. Nobody wants to falsely accuse somebody,” Nanos told People. "At some point in time, someday we may have somebody in a courtroom that deserves his or her right to have a fair and impartial trial. The way you get that is through a fair and impartial investigation."

"There’s frustration because people want to know [what happened]," he continued. "But this is just like any other case. Sometimes you solve them within hours or days. Sometimes it takes a long time."

Guthrie has been missing since Feb. 1. Investigators believe that she was abducted from her home in the overnight hours, though it's unclear who took her and for what reason. Nanos has asked that anyone with information come forward as any tip—big or small—could help break the case wide open.

"We still get calls, we still get tips,” Nanos told People. "Even if the tip is from last night, 102 days later, because it might be somebody calling saying, ‘Somebody in this neighborhood doesn’t look right.’ We tell our folks here in Pima County: if you see something suspicious to you, call us."

Anyone with information pertaining to the case is asked to call the FBI (1-800-CALL-FBI).

READ NEXT: Sheriff Warns There Could Be a ‘Problem’ as Nancy Guthrie Investigation Continues