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1989 Fantasy Film Became Audrey Hepburn's Final Film and a Fitting Farewell
Audrey Hepburnmay be known for her iconic performances in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, My Fair Lady, and Charade, but the Hollywood icon’s final film paired her with a legendary director in a role that serves as an indelible farewell to one of the most legendary screen stars of all time. Hepburn’s later years were largely dedicated to her charitable efforts with UNICEF, but the opportunity to work with Steven Spielberg in his 1989 fantasy film Always was an opportunity even Audrey Hepburn could not pass up.
Audrey Hepburn Returned to the Screen for Always @audreysunendingloveAudrey Hepburn in her last movie - Always, 1989. She portrayed an angel, called Hap. I think it’s fitting. She didn’t just play an angel, she was always an angel. The angel who walked the earth, and right into my heart. She is the flower that sprouted and spread all through me, so that now she is with me in everything I do. Her gentle hands and tender heart, her voice that sounded like the most beautiful melody, her contagious laughter and her precious, magical smile that could mend the most broken of hearts. Her almond eyes, the ones that sparkled like stars, the ones that knew, that understood. Her eyes that looked at you with nothing but kindness, and warmth, and love. Her raven hair, always pinned back. The words she used, how they spilled out of her mouth and off her lips like waterfalls of love and comfort and joy and empathy and compassion and understanding. What it must have been like to sit with her, to talk with her, to hug her, to be with her. How she cared. I’ve said it a million times before and I’ll say it again, she was a real life angel. She was taken from this world too soon, I wish so much that she were still here. To know a world without her is to know emptiness, to know a world with her is to know love. I miss you Audrey, more than anything. I talk to the stars because I am nowhere near your grave. You are my favourite star. This new year was hard, it marks 30 years since you’ve gone up to heaven. I hope you are dancing with the angels. You had the purest, most tender, most loving soul. It hurts me to think how you were deprived of so much of the love you so longed for. You deserved so much more. And despite the lack of love you felt throughout your life, you just kept opening up with it. You were too precious. I wish I could give you the world, but even that would not nearly amount to what you really deserved. I love you, Audrey. I miss you more every minute of every day. Each new second you are gone is a new kind of sorrow. I look for you in the stars and the sunrises and sunsets, the flowers and the trees and everything beautiful. I love you, my Audrey, my little deer, you warrior woman, I love you. You make me stronger. <3 #audreyhepburn
♬ original sound - i ❤️🩹 a.h.After a career that included unforgettable performances, including Roman Holiday, Audrey Hepburn stepped away from acting in her later years to focus on her humanitarian efforts with UNICEF. After seven years away from acting, the actress returned to the big screen to portray Hap, an angelic guide who helps a recently deceased pilot find a way to move forward. Despite her limited screen time in the film, Hepburn’s presence added an emotional depth that reflected the grace, kindness, and compassion she brought to every performance.
Released in 1989 and directed by Steven Spielberg, Always starred Richard Dreyfuss as Pete Sandich, a firefighter pilot who dies in a crash and returns as a spirit guide to help others. The film also featured Holly Hunter, John Goodman, and Brad Johnson. Inspired by the 1943 film A Guy Named Joe, the movie blended romance, fantasy, and drama in a story about love, loss, and letting go.
Always Became Audrey Hepburn’s Final FilmAlways would become Hepburn’s final feature film. Audrey Hepburn died in January 1993 at the age of 63 at her home in Switzerland after a battle with appendiceal cancer.
While Always is not Audrey Hepburn’s most successful film, her ethereal portrayal of Hap serves as an indelible time capsule of the actress’ career. For many viewers, seeing her one final time on screen gave Always an importance beyond its box-office performance.
Why Always Was a Fitting Farewell for Audrey Hepburn @healingoutloud2Beautiful women ・・・ -Audry Hepburn inspiring words.#audryhepburn #healoutloud #youcandohardthings #yourenotalone #postpartumanxiety #subconsciousprogramming #tappingtherapy #singlemomlife #intentionalliving #justbreathe #divorcedmom #divorce #divorcesucks #postdivorce #lifeafterdivorce #divorcecoaching #divorcecommunity #singlemompower #soloparenting #infidelityrecovery #healing #healingjourney #healingheartbreak #healingoutloud #womenempowerment #divorcetips #divorcesupport #divorcedmoms #momtruths #emotionalabuse #emotionalhealing
♬ original sound - Healingoutloud2While the film was not the movie that defined Audrey Hepburn’s career, it became the perfect final chapter. The role allowed Hepburn to embody the qualities that made audiences adore her for generations. An actress defined by kindness, guidance, hope, and grace, her final imprint on film was a character whose core values reflected the same qualities she represented throughout her life.
Audrey Hepburn’s appearance in Always is not her most famous role, but it endures as a gentle reminder of the warmth and humanity that made her one of the most cherished Hollywood legends, both on screen and off.
1977 Classic Ballad, Written for One of the ‘Best Movie Soundtracks’ of All Time, Became a Soft Rock Anthem
In 1977, Samantha Sang released a ballad originally destined for one of cinema's most iconic soundtracks, but it would ultimately become her biggest hit instead.
Written by Barry and Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees, "Emotion" was originally intended for Saturday Night Fever, a film that's earned a reputation for having one of the best movie soundtracks of all time. Although the song ultimately wasn't included in the blockbuster film, it found a home with Sang and became one of the defining soft rock ballads of the decade.
The story began during one of the Bee Gees' most prolific creative periods.
Barry and Robin Gibb wrote "Emotion" for the Saturday Night Fever soundtrack while they were creating music for the film.
"We were recording our new album in the north of France," Robin Gibb said years later, "and we'd written about and recorded about four or five songs for the new album when [Director Robert] Stigwood rang from L.A. and said, 'We're putting together this little film, low budget, called Tribal Rites of a Saturday Night. Would you have any songs on hand?' And we said, 'Look, we can't, we haven't any time to sit down and write for a film.' We didn't know what it was about."
As work on the soundtrack progressed, however, "Emotion" was left off the final album, opening the door for another artist to record it.
Rather than letting the song sit on the shelf, the Gibbs gave it to Australian singer Samantha Sang.
Barry Gibb also contributed backing vocals to the recording, lending the track the rich harmonies that had become synonymous with the Bee Gees' sound.
"I said, 'You do eight of the harmonies and I'll do eight of the harmonies,'" Sang said in an interview.
Sang's heartfelt performance paired beautifully with the song's tender lyrics, creating a ballad that resonated with listeners well beyond the disco era.
The fresh take on the song paid off.
Released as the lead single from Sang's album, Emotion, the song climbed to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in early 1978. Its graceful melody and emotional vulnerability helped it become a fixture on soft rock radio, where it remains a favorite decades later.
Ironically, Saturday Night Fever hardly needed another hit.
The soundtrack went on to become one of the best-selling albums of all time, propelled by Bee Gees classics including "Stayin' Alive," "Night Fever," "How Deep Is Your Love" and "More Than a Woman." Yet "Emotion" proved it didn’t need a place in the film to achieve lasting success.
Almost five decades after its release, Samantha Sang's recording remains the definitive version of the song. What began as a composition intended for one of the greatest movie soundtracks ever assembled ultimately became a timeless soft rock anthem in its own right and a reminder that sometimes the songs left off an album go on to create a remarkable legacy of their own.
Related: 1970 Rock Song, Lasting Nearly 13 Minutes, Remains a Classic 56 Years Later
1976 Hit, Written as a Jukebox Classic, Became a Breakup Anthem
Fifty years ago, beloved country artist Eddie Rabbitt released "Two Dollars in the Jukebox"—a song that became a lasting breakup classic.
Released in November 1976 as a single from his second studio album, Rocky Mountain Music, "Two Dollars in the Jukebox" achieved massive success on the country charts. Following its late-year release, the track steadily climbed the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, peaking at No. 3 in early 1977 and spending a total of 15 weeks on the tally.
"Two Dollars in the Jukebox" was one of three major top-five Hot Country Singles from Rocky Mountain Music. Prior to its release, Rabbitt dropped "Drinkin' My Baby (Off My Mind)"—his first No. 1 hit—and "Rocky Mountain Music," which peaked at No. 5. The singles' success boosted the acclaim of the entire record, establishing Rabbitt as a formidable solo artist beyond his established songwriting duties.
Kenny Rogers with Loni Anderson and Eddie Rabbitt at the Academy Of Country Music Awards on March 2, 1979.Ralph Dominguez/MediaPunch via Getty Images
Produced by David Malloy for Elektra Records, "Two Dollars in the Jukebox" serves as a quintessential honky-tonk tune. The track pulls inspiration from traditional country roots and blends it with Rabbitt's progressive "Countrypolitan" sound. Its bouncy melody paired with an infectious rhythm section made it a staple on dive bar jukeboxes across the country—directly mirroring its lyrical themes.
Written entirely by Rabbitt, "Two Dollars in the Jukebox" tells the story of a heartbroken man attempting to wash away his sorrow at a bar with drinks and songs requested on the jukebox. The lyrics vividly capture the blue-collar country tradition of seeking solace in a dive-bar atmosphere. Its relatable down-on-your-luck storytelling and lively sound made it the ultimate breakup anthem for barroom listeners.
Five decades after its debut, "Two Dollars in the Jukebox" remains a country staple. Its themes of overcoming heartbreak continue to resonate with new audiences in the digital era, having accumulated over 15 million streams on Spotify alone—proving the enduring power of Rabbitt's timeless storytelling.
Related: 1977 Rock Classic, Once Spent 32 Weeks Charting, Became a Breakup Anthem
Walmart’s ‘Vibrant’ $40 Floral Area Rug Is Machine-Washable, Pet-Friendly, and Full of Cottagecore Charm
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A seamless blend of form and function, area rugs can instantly perk up the aesthetic of a room while adding a practical touch. They’ll effortlessly tie your furniture and decor together, accent your barren floors, and protect high-traffic areas. If you’re looking to add one to your home and transform your space, Walmart’s bestselling Pentantan Floral Area Rug is a fantastic choice for those who can’t get enough of the cottagecore aesthetic.
Right now, you can score it on sale for 44% off for a limited time with a flash deal. Normally retailing for $72, the 5-by-7-foot rug is now marked down to just $40 in four colors and two other styles. Considering that major name brands carry rugs with a similar design for over five times the price, this is a deal you don’t want to miss.
Pentantan Floral Area Rug, From $40 (was $72) at Walmart Shop at WalmartOozing with cottagecore charm, this rug features an eye-catching botanical design that’ll instantly elevate the aesthetic of your living space. The entire rug is filled with detailed flowers in various sizes, shapes, and colors. For some added detail and dimension, the flowers are accented with dainty stems and leaves. An ornate floral border frames the design.
Set against a muted background that contrasts the striking hues, this rug's pattern pops out. Numerous shoppers agreed, describing it as “vibrant.” They also mentioned that the rug is “elegant,” “cheerful,” and “absolutely gorgeous.” One reviewer said that this rug fit their “cottagecore and eclectic vibe beautifully!” Another customer noted that it made their room “feel warm and cozy.”
Made of polyester, this rug is less than 0.3 inches thick. While it boasts a low-pile profile so your furniture won't wobble, several reviewers mentioned that it feels incredibly soft and plush underfoot. You can place it by your bed, in the center of your living room, or underneath your dining table to give your feet a cozy area to rest.
Pentantan Floral Area Rug, From $40 (was $72) at Walmart Shop at WalmartShort strands make it difficult for the rug to collect dirt, dust, and hair, making it ideal for high-traffic areas. Ensuring that it stays in place as people pass through, the backing is made of (TPR), which offers traction to prevent the rug from sliding around.
This rug is also incredibly easy to care for. If you want to give it a daily refresh, you can go over it with a vacuum cleaner. When it comes time for a deep clean, simply toss it into the washing machine with cold water. Shoppers mentioned that it maintained its softness and vibrancy after coming out of the washer and dryer. Because this rug is easy to clean and doesn’t trap hair, it’s a great choice if you’re a pet owner. Multiple reviewers who have dogs approved of it!
You can choose from beige, green, light pink, and black with straight edges, beige with a scalloped edge, or a brown rug with a simple floral design. This rug is available in a few additional styles in different sizes at varying price points.
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Place the Pentantan Floral Area Rug anywhere in your home to add whimsical elegance and dreamy cottagecore vibes. Head to Walmart and snag the 5-by-7-foot version while it’s still on sale for just $40!
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’90s Rock Legend and Founding Member of Iconic Band Turns 60
Stone Gossard, the guitarist and founding member of Pearl Jam, has turned 60, marking another milestone for one of the key musicians who helped shape the Seattle rock scene and the grunge movement of the 1990s.
Born July 20, 1966, Gossard became a major figure in rock music through his work with Pearl Jam, but his story began years before the band became a global success. His career includes influential Seattle groups such as Green River and Mother Love Bone, as well as Temple of the Dog and Brad.
Today, Gossard remains active in music. He continues to play guitar, write songs, work in the studio and support new artists through his record label, Loosegroove Records.
His 60th birthday also comes at an interesting time for Pearl Jam. The band's future live lineup has become a major topic among rock fans following Matt Cameron's departure.
Guitarist Stone Gossard of Pearl Jam performs live on stage during BottleRock at Napa Valley Expo on May 25, 2024 in Napa, California.Photo by Jim Bennett/Getty Images
During a May 21 interview with Jonathan Cohen on Pearl Jam Radio on Sirius XM, Gossard said the group already knows who will take over behind the drum kit but is keeping the identity secret.
“I love the mystery of it all. It’s so exciting,” Gossard said, according to Pearl Jame Online. “There’s not enough mystery in the world. I think the band is super pumped that we’re actually getting to go play. It’s been a minute, and the fact that we’re doing it at Ohana just makes it even more special. And the fact that nobody knows who’s gonna be on drums with us? That just makes it even more wild. It’s our mystery wrapped in an enigma, and we’re just soaking it in right now.”
Stone Gossard's Role in Pearl Jam and the Grunge EraGossard's musical journey started in Seattle's growing rock scene. He joined Green River, a band formed with Jeff Ament, Mark Arm and Alex Vincent. The group released Come on Down in 1985, followed by Dry As a Bone in 1987 and Rehab Doll in 1988.
Green River later broke up, but its influence continued to grow as the Seattle music scene developed. The band has been described as one of the first grunge groups.
After Green River, Gossard and Ament became part of Mother Love Bone with Andrew Wood, Bruce Fairweather and Greg Gilmore. The band released the Shine EP in 1989 and recorded its debut album, Apple. However, Wood died after a heroin overdose in 1990, bringing Mother Love Bone to an end.
The loss led to the creation of Temple of the Dog, a project formed as a tribute to Wood. Chris Cornell, Wood's former roommate, helped lead the project, while Gossard, Ament, Mike McCready and Matt Cameron were among those involved. Eddie Vedder also contributed vocals, including a duet with Cornell on “Hunger Strike.”
For Gossard, the project remains a standout moment in his career. He praised the musicians involved and the creative freedom they had while making the record.
“Why? Well, because you have an incredible singer-songwriter in Chris Cornell who knows how to do it, and he knows how to let you be you, and you have Matt Cameron, who [explicit] needs one drum take to make it,” he said, per Far Out Magazine. “Both of those guys at the peak of their powers and inviting us to be part of the process, and we brought something that was special to those guys because Soundgarden was pretty rigid.”
Pearl Jam was formed in 1990 by Gossard, Ament and McCready. Vedder later joined the group, which originally performed under the name Mookie Blaylock before changing its name.
The band's 1991 debut album, Ten, pushed Pearl Jam into the mainstream and became one of the best-selling alternative albums of the 1990s. Gossard was a major creative force on the record, having musically written or co-written eight of its 11 tracks, including “Alive,” “Even Flow” and “Black.”
Pearl Jam went on to release albums including Vs., Vitalogy, No Code, Yield, Binaural, Riot Act, Pearl Jam, Backspacer, Lightning Bolt, Gigaton and Dark Matter, which arrived in April 2024.
Gossard and Pearl Jam's work earned lasting recognition. Pearl Jam was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017. Gossard and McCready were also included in Rolling Stone's 2023 list of the 250 Greatest Guitarists of All Time, ranking at No. 124.
Gossard's work extends well beyond Pearl Jam. He joined Brad in 1992 and played on several albums with the Seattle group. He also performed with members of Pearl Jam on Neil Young's 1995 album Mirror Ball and joined Young's backing band for a European tour.
As a solo artist, Gossard released Bayleaf in 2001 and Moonlander in 2013. He also worked on Painted Shield, a side project with singer-songwriter Mason Jennings that eventually released its debut album in 2021.
Gossard has also spent years working behind the scenes. He co-founded Loosegroove Records with Brad member Regan Hagar in 1994. The label became independent in 1996 and signed emerging artists, including Queens of the Stone Age, whose debut album was released through Loosegroove in 1998.
As Stone Gossard turns 60, his story remains closely tied to the history of Seattle rock, the rise of grunge and the enduring career of Pearl Jam.
Related: '80s Rock Band Is Suddenly Climbing the Charts 12 Years After Disbanding
Nancy Guthrie Update: Was 'Today' Intruder Related to Her Disappearance?
Days after an intruder was able to break into the Today show, Brian Entin — who has been reporting on Nancy Guthrie's disappearance since February — discusses a possible connection between the two incidents.
"There's been this theory since the beginning that the person responsible for Nancy's disappearance could be someone obsessed with Savannah," Entin explained in a video shared via YouTube on Tuesday, July 21. "Does this indicate that the FBI does not believe that? I'm just thinking if that was the case, wouldn't they have had more tight security at NBC?"
Former FBI agent Steve Moore agreed with Entin's theory,A adding that NBC "has a really robust, really high-speed, low drag security."
According to Moore, many of NBC's superstars are "constantly" dealing with stalker situations, which the network does not take lightly.
"If the FBI had told [NBC] that there was a stalker, that there was a potential danger to their star of the TodayShow, they would have reacted appropriately, I believe," he continued, adding that he would bet money on this theory.
The report comes just four days after a "disorderly person" was able to break onto the famous set at 30 Rockefeller Center on Thursday, July 16. The unidentified individual was reportedly hurling racial slurs before lunging at Craig Melvin. The man was quickly removed and placed into custody.
The 84-year-old mother of Savannah Guthrie was reported missing on February 1. After weeks of up-to-the-minute updates from the Pima County Sheriff's Department and the FBI's Phoenix Division, no updates have been shared in recent months.
"The case is cold. The case is completely cold," Moore told Entin on Tuesday. "They don't close those cases ever, but they'll give them to new agents who are coming in with a new set of eyes who are not indoctrinated into the way the FBI necessarily investigates everything. And sometimes people see them in a different light."
He added, "What most people would do is start at the beginning and try not to take the same steps that the investigators did before because we know the result of that. Try going off in a different direction. Try anything you can to mix things up a little and see if you don't bump into something that they didn't."
1993 No. 1 Bestseller, Written by a 104-Year-Old, Became a Guinness World Record Holder
On September 22, 1991, The New York Times published the article titled "Two 'Maiden Ladies' With Century-Old Stories to Tell." In the article, sisters Sarah "Sadie" L. Delany and A. Elizabeth "Bessie" Delany were introduced to the world. The sisters, a pair of civil rights activists who were born to a former slave, recounted their over 100 years of life and the many fascinating stories they had.
A publisher from New York was taken by the article and worked with Amy Hearth (the journalist behind the piece) and the sisters to turn it into a full-length book. This book became Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters' First 100 Years.
Published in 1993, Having Our Say was a wild success, spending more than 105 weeks on TheNew York Times bestseller list. According to Hearth, all of the editions of the book have sold a combined 5 million copies. Written when Bessie was 102 and Sadie was 104, the book made the sisters Guinness World Record holders for the "Oldest Authors."
View this post on InstagramHaving Our Sayis a nonfiction, historically accurate retelling of the sisters' lives over the course of their more than a century of living. It follows their upbringing in North Carolina, how Jim Crow laws forced them to move north to Harlem, as well as their college years and time as civil rights activists. Both sisters earned advanced degrees and eventually settled in Mount Vernon, N.Y., where they continued living together. Neither sister ever married.
Following the publication and success of Having Our Say, the Delaney sisters were inundated with fan mail, with people asking them for advice, more stories, and words of wisdom. This led to them working again with Hearth to publish a second book, The Delany Sisters' Book of Everyday Wisdom. When Bessie passed away in 1995 at the age of 104, Sadie worked with Hearth once more to publish On My Own At 107: Reflections on Life Without Bessie.
Sadie passed away in 1999 at the age of 109.
All three of the books detailing the Delaney sisters' incredible lives are available wherever books are sold.
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Related: 1967 International Bestseller, Written by a 16-Year-Old, Became a ‘Most Influential Novel’
Iconic '80s Rock Singer Calls Out Audience for Messing Up No.1 Hit at Concert
Any fan of the classic rock of the '80s can tell you that John Mellencamp puts on a great show. The iconic top-charting musician has put on great concerts over the years with his stage presence, conversational style, and audience prioritization.
This involvement in with the audience can be a really great thing a lot of the time, as the crowd gets to be involved and create the music along with the performer. However, sometimes this can create some mishaps, as almost one hundred percent of the time, the performer on stage is a bit more musically gifted than those in the crowd.
This fact led to a hilarious moment at one of Mellencamp's recent shows where he called out the audience for messing up the song "Jack and Diane," which remains Mellencamp's biggest hit ever and a massive number one charting tune.
@robinhunzicker@John Mellencamp is a good fucking time. #cincinnati #ohio #johnmellencamp #concert #storytime
♬ Jack & Diane - John Mellencamp"Guys. There's two verses...and THEN the chorus. You guys just said 'f*** off' to the second verse and just went straight to the chorus," Mellencamp scolded the crowd. He went on to explain a bit about the making of the song, before going into the second verse himself.
Fans absolutely loved the moment, finding it hilarious. Taking to the comments they gave praise to the side-splitting moment.
"He said the same thing in Indy!"
"Great show last night. He brought his brother (lives in Cincinnati) on stage to sing with him and had his son sing too. Great memories."
"This was hilarious!! I recorded it as well. Such a great show!!"
It's always great to get the audience involved, no matter how good they may be at actually following the song. It's great to see the artist connecting with their fanbase in such a raw and earnest fashion.
Related: Iconic Top-Charting '80s Rock Star Gets Political at Recent Concert with Reworked Lyrics
Marshalls' New Antique-Looking Accent Chest Will Add a Quaint Touch to Your Home
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One of my favorite pastimes is shopping at Marshalls because I never know what I am going to find. That surprise is part of the fun, and it is also what makes the store feel different from so many other places. I can walk in looking for one thing and leave with something completely unexpected that still fits my home perfectly.
Marshalls is especially appealing when you are searching for niche items that add character to a space. From accent chairs to small accent tables, the store often offers pieces that look far more expensive than they really are. That kind of value matters, especially when home decorating costs can climb quickly.
Karat Home Hadrian 4-Drawer Accent Chest, $229.99 at Marshalls Shop It!In today's market, finding stylish decor at a reasonable price can feel harder than ever. Furniture and home accents can add up fast, which is why stores like Marshalls stand out. They make it easier to refresh a room without having to spend a fortune or compromise on style. Products like this Karat Home Hadrian 4 Drawer Accent Chest are a perfect example, priced at $229.99.
Related: Hobby Lobby Is Selling a Stylish Accent Cabinet That Adds Farmhouse Charm to Any Space
What makes the experience even better is the variety. You never quite know what will be on the shelves, and that makes each visit feel fresh. Sometimes the best purchase is not the item you planned to buy, but the one you discover while browsing. That sense of discovery is what keeps the shopping experience exciting from start to finish.
For shoppers who enjoy decorating with personality, Marshalls offers a lot of potential. It is a place where practical home upgrades and eye-catching statement pieces can come together in one trip. You can find something useful for everyday living and still bring home a piece that feels special.
The best part is that these finds do not always come with a high price tag. When you spot a well-made chair, table or accent piece at a low price, it feels like a win. That balance of style, surprise and savings is exactly why Marshalls remains such a favorite for home shoppers.
Related: Target's Stylish and Convenient Kitchen Essential Is Perfect for Small Spaces
Olympic Diving Legend, Who Struck His Head During Competition, Delivered One of Sports' Greatest Comebacks
There are few athletes who have defined a sport quite like Greg Louganis defined Olympic diving in the 1980s. Still one of the most recognizable and decorated athletes in the sport, Louganis’ legacy isn’t built on accomplishments alone. As an athlete, his impact was never just about medals. One of the defining moments of his Olympic career came after a shocking accident at the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul when he struck his head on the diving board mid-dive. What happened next is the reason Greg Louganis remains one of the most important athletes in Olympic diving history.
Greg Louganis Became the Face of Olympic DivingAfter winning a silver medal at the 1976 Montreal Olympics at just 16 years old, Greg Louganis became nearly unbeatable throughout the 1980s. At the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, he swept both the 3-meter springboard and 10-meter platform competitions, earning two gold medals. Louganis quickly became the face of Olympic diving at the height of America's fascination with the Olympics and the international rivalries that captivated audiences around the world.
The Dive That Shocked the World @insixty_sportsLOUGANIS SMASHES HIS HEAD 🏊♂️🥇 #olympics #diving #swimming #goldmedal In the 1988 Seoul Olympics, diver Greg Louganis struck his head on the springboard while attempting a reverse 2½ pike during the preliminary rounds of the 3-meter springboard event. Despite the severe injury, he continued to compete and won gold in both the 3-meter springboard and the 10-meter platform events. Louganis's remarkable performance, resilience, and sportsmanship in the face of adversity became an enduring story of the Olympic Games.
♬ original sound - InSixty_SportsBut it was the 1988 Olympics in Seoul that cemented his legendary status. In an era when Olympians weren't just elite athletes but global celebrities who captivated an entire generation, one missed dive became the defining moment of his career.
The incident occurred during the preliminary round of the men's 3-meter springboard competition. Attempting a reverse 2½ somersault pike, Louganis rotated slightly too close to the board. As he came out of the dive, the back of his head struck the springboard with incredible force before he entered the water.
The impact was so shocking that spectators gasped and commentators questioned whether he would return. Millions of viewers watched as Louganis emerged from the pool bleeding from a deep cut on his head. The injury required several stitches. Remarkably, he returned later that day to complete the preliminary competition and qualified for the finals.
A Gold Medal Performance After a Terrifying AccidentDays later, Louganis went on to win the gold medal in the 3-meter springboard before capturing another gold in the 10-meter platform. More than his medals, however, it was his resilience and unshakable courage that became the hallmark of his performance in Seoul.
Rather than allowing fear to creep into his dives, Louganis delivered a series of extraordinary performances that were elegant, composed, and technically brilliant. He became the first diver since Klaus Dibiasi to sweep both diving events at consecutive Olympic Games, but it was his fearless return to the springboard—not just the gold medals—that cemented his place on the Mount Rushmore of Olympic diving.
Why Greg Louganis Still Defines Olympic Diving @greglouganis#onthisday #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #memoriesbringback #throwback #throwbacksongs #diving #olympicspirit #goldmedalist
♬ original sound - Greg LouganisGreg Louganis is one of the few athletes who dominated a sport and continues to define it decades later. Judges rewarded his near-flawless technique, while fans were captivated by the effortless beauty of his performances. His decision to return to competition after one of the most dramatic and frightening accidents in Olympic history transformed him from a legendary athlete into an enduring symbol of courage, grace, and determination.
For many sports fans, Greg Louganis remains the quintessential Olympic diver, even nearly four decades later. More than an athlete, he embodied the resilience, excellence, and competitive spirit that continue to define the Olympic Games.
Jennifer Lopez’s Capri Leggings Are the Definition of Effortless Summer Style — We Found a Pair Starting at $6
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Capri leggings are experiencing a major revival, largely thanks to style icons like Jennifer Lopez, whose off-duty looks are endlessly emulated across social media and beyond. Lopez has long been known for turning simple basics into standout moments, and earlier this year, she blended sporty style with glamor by pairing cropped leggings with an oversized jacket and sleek kitten heels.
Now, you don’t have to splurge to get a piece of that effortless celebrity style thanks to the No Nonsense Soft Cotton Capri Leggings. Currently starting at just $6 on Amazon, they’re making it possible for anyone to emulate Lopez’s look without the Hollywood price tag. While discounts vary by size and color, most combinations are $20 or under right now, so you’ll score a great deal no matter what.
No Nonsense Soft Cotton Capri Leggings, From $6 (were $19) at Amazon Shop at AmazonShoppers called these the "all-around perfect capri leggings," noting they're "very comfortable" and "breathable."
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Related: Amazon's $20 Linen Button-Down Tank Is the Perfect ‘Lightweight’ Summer Travel Companion
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The Unexpected Item Christopher Nolan Strictly Bans From His Film Sets
Christopher Nolan has an unusual rule on his sets.
The Academy Award-winning director revealed the type of footwear he will not tolerate on Monday, July 20, during an appearance on CBS Mornings.
Nolan told the television program host GayleKing that actors often like to wear UGG boots or “big, fluffy, comfy slippers.” They will slip into them when they’re filming scenes that don’t show their feet because the shoes from their costumes are often painful and uncomfortable.
What started as a joke he had with EmilyBlunt and Anne Hathaway turned into a serious rule he brings to his productions.
“The funny thing is, you can be on a set where you’ve got a guy holding a microphone, you’ve got a giant camera, you’ve got crew everywhere,” the director explained. “But something like that can actually weirdly take you out of reality ... it’s like if someone’s eating a bag of chips off-camera or something.”
Nolan continued, “There are certain things that just remind you you’re in the real world as opposed to the world we’re trying to create for the actors.”
The 55-year-old aims to create a production that feels truthful to the film.
“I want to stay in the moment; we want the actors to stay in the moment,” he shared. “And so, for me, the UGG boots are a signifier of modernity.”
But don’t worry, UGG fans, he doesn’t have any bad blood with the popular shoe. King asked if he took issue with the slippers, to which Nolan replied: “No, UGGs are great.”
The director told this story while promoting his latest film, The Odyssey. It stars MattDamon, Anne Hathaway, TomHolland, RobertPattinson, CharlizeTheron, HimeshPatel, and Zendaya. The Odyssey is the first feature-length film to be shot entirely on 70mm IMAX cameras and is now in theaters.
‘RHONY’ Fans Are Losing It Over This A-List Icon’s Surprise Cameo in the New Trailer
Bravo just dropped The Real Housewives of New York City Season 16 trailer, and all anyone can talk about is Martha Stewart. That’s right…Martha Stewart!
While she’s not a regular cast member, the tease suggests Stewart is already at borderline ‘friend’ status. So how did Martha end up on the reality series? As it turns out, Stewart’s longtime makeup artist, Daisy Toye, is one of the new housewives this season.
View this post on InstagramWhile this is breaking news to some people, diehard RHONY (and Stewart) fans already knew about the appearance. Stewart confirmed the cameo last March to TMZ, telling the entertainment media outlet that her friend Daisy “is a fabulous housewife of New York.”
Stewart went on to share, “The filming was very fun. They’re very professional. And I think it’s going to be a very exciting series.”
When TMZ asked the lifestyle brand legend if her appearance was a one-and-done cameo, she said, “I think it’s maybe one and a half done.”
Martha shows up briefly in the brand-new trailer, talking up her pal: “Daisy’s the makeup artist to the stars.”
Well, maybe she’s not entirely positive about the new housewife. As the pair walk into Daisy’s home, Stewart looks at a box and complains, “What do you have in this kitchen, store-bought pie? Oh come on. So much to do in here.”
And of course, the queen of cooking and crafting would never have a ready-made dessert sitting on her kitchen counter.
What do fans think about Martha Stewart's ‘RHONY’ cameo?When Bravo posted the teaser on the network’s Instagram page, fans had thoughts. One commenter gushed, “Martha in the trailer? Chills. Well done,” and another wrote, “Martha? We are ready.”
When news of Martha’s RHONY debut first hit the Bravo-verse, viewers also had plenty to say on Reddit. Some fans compared her to another Real Housewife superstar fiend, writing, “The new Kathy Hilton of RHONY?” While others added, “Cool. Is she gonna take Erin’s spot on the cast?” and, “The way I just gasped. Martha makes great TV.”
When can fans watch Season 16 of ‘The Real Housewives of New York City’?For now, you’ll have to rewatch the trailer over and over again if you want to get a glimpse of Martha on RHONY. Season 16 doesn’t air on Bravo until Tuesday, September 8.
The latest group of housewives from NYC includes returning fan-favorites Jessel Taank, Erin Lichy, Sai De Silva, along with new cast members Daisy Toye (Stewart’s makeup artist), Hailey Glassman, and Erika Hammond. But that’s not all. Carole Radziwill is coming back to Bravo, joining the main cast this season.
Bruce Willis, 71, Spotted on Rare Outing Amid Ongoing Dementia Battle
Bruce Willis stepped out for a rare glimpse of the outside world this weekend, and by all accounts, he looked at peace doing it.
According to photos obtained by the Mirror on Monday, June 20, the Die Hard icon, 71, was seen riding shotgun during an hour-long drive through Studio City on Sunday, July 19, wearing a blue baseball cap and appearing relaxed throughout the outing.
It marked one of his few public sightings since the beloved actor stepped from acting following his 2022 diagnosis.
See the photos here.
Inside Bruce Willis' Ongoing Battle With FTD View this post on InstagramWillis' journey began in March 2022, when his family announced he had been diagnosed with aphasia, a condition affecting his ability to communicate.
His family shared the news on Instagram, writing that the diagnosis was "impacting his cognitive abilities" and that they were moving "through this as a strong family unit."
By February 2023, that diagnosis had progressed to frontotemporal dementia, a condition his wife, Emma Heming Willis, later confirmed publicly. FTD attacks the brain's frontal and temporal lobes, eroding speech and language skills while often leaving long-term memory intact, a pattern Willis' family says has held in his case.
Emma Heming Willis Steps Into the Role of Caregiver Bruce Willis is seen out in his car on September 21, 2024, in Brentwood, California.(Photo by MEGA/GC Images)
Since the diagnosis, Emma has taken on full-time caregiving duties, assembling a dedicated care team and writing a bestselling memoir, The Unexpected Journey, chronicling her transformation from wife to advocate.
She also launched The Emma & Bruce Willis Fund to support FTD research and caregivers navigating similar journeys.
"This journey with frontotemporal dementia (FTD) has opened my eyes to the realities so many families face," she wrote in a statement announcing the fund on Bruce's birthday in March 2026.
"It's what inspired me to create The Emma & Bruce Willis Fund to raise awareness of FTD, support research, and stand beside the caregivers who carry so much every day."
How the Willis Family Has Adapted (L-R) Rumer Willis, Demi Moore, Bruce Willis, Scout Willis, Emma Heming Willis and Tallulah Willis attend Demi Moore's 'Inside Out' Book Party on September 23, 2019 in Los Angeles, California.(Photo by Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images for goop)
In September 2025, Emma confirmed in an interview with People magazine that even though Willis now lives in a separate single-story home suited to his medical needs, she and their daughters, Mabel, 14, and Evelyn, 11, visit often.
Speaking on the podcast Conversations with Cam in January, she described their bond as unchanged in the ways that matter most. "It's still very meaningful," she said. "It's just different. You just learn how to adapt."
By May, her updates remained steady and hopeful. "We're doing well," she told Today.
"My husband is supported and loved. We're doing the best we can under the circumstances."
A Family Redefining What Connection Looks LikeWillis' daughters from his marriage to Demi Moore, Rumer,Scout and Tallulah, along with Mabel and Evelyn, have all continued to speak publicly about their father's condition and the toll it takes on caregivers everywhere.
As Emma put it to The Sunday Times last September, describing how the girls have learned to be present with their father without needing him to be anything other than himself: "They have really adapted to his disease and they know how to move around him."
Rap Legend Behind Iconic ’90s Hits Gets Biopic Slated for 2027 Release
Universal Pictures is bringing the lore behind the West Coast music icon's life to the big screen.
Director Craig Brewer (Song Sung Blue) is set to helm Snoop for Universal Pictures. The biopic inspired by the life of entertainer and rapperSnoop Dogg is slated for theatrical release on August 6, 2027, according toThe Hollywood Reporter.
The trade also confirms that Outer Banks breakout star Jonathan Daviss will star as Calvin Broadus Jr. as he rises to fame as Snoop Dogg in the 90's. In Universal's Oscar-nominated hit 2015 music biopic Straight Outta Compton, the rapper was played by actor LaKeith Stanfield (Sorry to Bother You) and made the studio over 200 million at the box office, perBox Office Mojo.
The iconic rap star was quoted, "After my brothers got to tell their story with Straight Outta Compton, now it’s my turn,” he said. “My director, Craig Brewer, he just showed us how hard it is out here for a pimp from Hustle & Flow. And then last year, he got us all singing ‘Sweet Caroline'" he shared, hyping up the Song Sung Blue filmmakers' and Universal's work with musical dramas.
Snoop added, "My movie is going to be rated R, I guarantee that. So get your parents’ permission.” about his upcoming film, which will follow his journey from his West Coast origins to releasing his debut album "Doggystyle" in 1993 before becoming a 17-time Grammy-nominated artist working alongside Dr. Dre as his sole producer on hits like “What’s My Name?” as well as “Gin and Juice.” through Death Row Records. Snoop marks the label's first project through its overall deal with NBCUniversal Entertainment & Studios.
Best-Selling 2019 Thriller Novel, Ranked Among 'Most Read Books,' Is Being Made Into a Movie
There's no denying that TikTok is somewhat responsible for a reading renaissance, with BookTok influencing viewers to pick up a swoon-worthy romance or a nail-biting thriller. If you're into the latter, chances are that you've heard of author Alex Michaelides.
The writer released his gripping debut novel, The Silent Patient, in Feb. 2019, with the psychological thriller captivating readers in their millions. Selling more than 12 million copies since its release, the book shot to No. 1 on The New York Times Best Sellers list in the first week of its publication. Goodreads recently named the book as one of the “Most Read Books of 2026,” proving that Michaelides' work is still as popular with readers as it was seven years ago.
Production companies previously secured the rights to take the book from page to screen, but few details were shared, and the movie was never officially confirmed — until today. On July 21, 2026,Deadline reported that the book's upcoming movie adaptation is being fast-tracked, with Sony Pictures joining the project alongside Annapurna andBrad Pitt's Plan B, who are set to produce.
Readers are sharing their excitement over this new development, which brings another TikTok-famous novel to life through a feature length film.
View this post on Instagram"THANK YOU @sonypictures !!!!!," book influencer @pavisfrancescha wrote in the caption of an Instagram Reel. "We have The Silent Patient film confirmed FINALLY 🤫 The book that got me into reading thrillers in the first place."
The Silent Patient tells the story of forensic psychotherapist Theo Faber, who becomes determined to uncover the truth behind the shocking murder of Gabriel Berenson by his wife, Alicia. Once a celebrated painter, Alicia has remained completely silent since the killing and has been committed to a secure psychiatric facility after being declared criminally insane. Believed by many to be beyond help, Alicia has never revealed what drove her to commit the crime. As Theo becomes increasingly obsessed with unlocking her silence, he embarks on a gripping psychological journey that threatens to unravel far more than he ever expected.
Country Star With 52 Weeks at No. 1 on Billboard Charts Announces News
Country music star Luke Bryan is set to release the title track from his upcoming album Signs on Aug. 7, giving fans another preview of the new project as he continues his busy 2026 schedule.
The announcement comes as Bryan celebrates a major career milestone tied to the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. His songs have spent a combined 52 weeks at No. 1 on the chart, a total built from multiple chart-topping hits across his career.
The chart history includes major hits such as "Play It Again," which spent nine weeks at No. 1, "That's My Kind of Night," which led the chart for 12 weeks, and "This Is How We Roll," his collaboration with Florida Georgia Line, which topped the chart for six weeks.
Luke Bryan performs on stage during the 53rd CMA Fest in downtown Nashville, Tennessee. LUKE BRYAN (Photo by Connie Chornuk/Disney via Getty Images)Photo by Connie Chornuk/Disney via Getty Images
Other No. 1 songs in Bryan's chart record include "Drink a Beer," "Strip It Down," "I See You," "Drunk on You," "Kick the Dust Up," "Rain Is a Good Thing," "Someone Else Calling You Baby" and "I Don't Want This Night to End."
His chart success also includes "Buy Dirt," the Jordan Davis song featuring Bryan, which spent four weeks at No. 1.
With the new Signs release on the way, Bryan is adding another chapter to a career that has already produced a long list of country hits.
The Signs title track is scheduled to arrive on Aug. 7, ahead of the full album's Sept. 18 release through MCA.
Bryan first shared news of the album in May 2026 during the season finale of American Idol, where he was wrapping up his ninth season as a judge. He also performed "Fish Golf Hunt Drink," another song from the project.
View this post on InstagramThe upcoming album has already given fans a look at its sound through previously released songs, including "Word On The Street" and "Country And She Knows It." "Fish Golf Hunt Drink" was also released as a preview of the record.
The new album follows Mind of a Country Boy, which was released in 2024. Signs will mark another major release in Bryan's long-running country music career.
Bryan has also remained active on the road in 2026. His Word On The Street Tour recently made stops across the country, including a July 10 show in Moline, Illinois, where he surprised a fan during the performance.
During that concert, Bryan noticed a dancing fan in the crowd and invited him onto the stage. The moment turned into a memorable part of the show as the fan showed off his dance moves in front of the audience.
@kellydude96This was the best impromptu fan interaction at a concert I’ve ever seen! This man Colin, aka Redneck Magic Mike, was so funny! He danced his way to free tickets for life! #lukebryanconcert #lukebryan #molineillinois #vibrantarenaatthemark #wordonthestreettour @Luke Bryan
♬ original sound - ZakKelly96The country star is currently on a short break from the tour but is scheduled to return to the road on Thursday with a show at Bank Plus Amphitheater in Southaven, Mississippi. The tour is set to continue through Sept. 12.
Bryan's new music plans arrive during a packed year that also includes his 50th birthday milestone and a full touring schedule.
Related: Country Star Earns No. 1 Hit Lasting Two Weeks Amid 2026 Tour
Veteran Actors Remember Making Television History 60 Years Ago by Boldly Going
William Shatner, 95, and George Takei, 89, looked back on 60 years of Star Trek, the television series that sparked the imaginations of generations since premiering in 1966. The two longtime veteran actors who played Captain Kirk and Lieutenant Sulu, respectively, reflected on their long journey pioneering pop culture as we know it for AARP Movies for Grownups.
Related: Beloved ‘Star Trek’ Legend, 88, Makes Rare Public Appearance
When the show premiered, Takei recalled his baby nephew sleeping through it on his lap, “It wasn’t an overwhelming smash debut,” Takei said of the show's humble initial 3-season run before breaking into a 7-feature film franchise with beloved films such as Star Trek: The Motion Picture and Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan. “The fans who discovered it gave us this totally unexpected, undreamed-of longevity,” Takei told AARP.
Shatner added, “Although the background was futuristic, the foreground was what happens because you’re a human being."
Takei expanded on that aspect of how the show created by Gene Roddenberry, which Lucille Ballgave a chance to and produced, really broke barriers for its cast members by reflecting a society operating for the greater good of all: “Star Trek is a family show,” he explained. “Our most steady audience members are grandpas and grandmas,” and lovingly referred to all of the following spin-off series and crews as the “children and grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren” of the original show.
Related: At 86, Patrick Stewart Reveals He's Not Done With Star Trek
Shatner reflected on their original crew, many of whom have passed on: "My memory of Star Trek is filled with the lovely people in it,” he said, “Leonard Nimoy, DeForest Kelley, to name two. They were beautiful people that were good friends of mine, all dead now," and expressed how he felt that his crew was the gift, while the show's impact on his career trajectory was motivated by his ambition to be "good," sharing, “The definition of success varies from moment to moment. Whatever it was, I was trying to be good at what I did. I don’t recall, like, I’ve got to be successful, but I’ve got to be good at what I’m doing."
Overall the duo fondly look back on their Star Trek legacy: “‘Live long and prosper’ should include gratitude,” Takei said. “Gratitude for the blessings we have.”
'90s Rock Band Announces North America Tour 34 Years After Forming
More than three decades after turning the underground rock world on its head, Melt-Banana is heading back to North America.
The influential Japanese noise rock band has announced a U.S. tour this fall, with a string of headlining dates scheduled across the country. The trek will see the group perform in cities including Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago, Detroit, Toronto, Brooklyn, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Austin, and New Orleans before wrapping up in Houston. The tour follows the band's recent run of international festival appearances and club shows.
Formed in 1992 in Tokyo by vocalist Yasuko Onuki and guitarist Ichiro Agata, Melt-Banana quickly carved out a reputation unlike any other band of its era.
Blending blistering hardcore punk, noise rock, grindcore, experimental music, and bursts of electronic textures, the duo became known for lightning-fast songs, unpredictable arrangements, and explosive live performances. Their fearless approach earned them a devoted international following and made them one of Japan's most celebrated underground exports.
"We have a sense of what we want in our minds, but we can't find the concrete musical expression of that feeling," Agata told New Noise Magazine. "So, we have to create the answer ourselves, shaping our thoughts into music. It would be nice if we could write new music methodically or systematically, but since that’s not how we create, it takes time."
Over the years, Melt-Banana has released a string of acclaimed albums, including Scratch or Stitch, Charlie, Cell-Scape, and Fetch. The band's willingness to push musical boundaries has also led to collaborations and tours with artists across a wide range of genres, from punk and metal to experimental rock.
Perhaps even more impressive is the band's longevity.
While many of their contemporaries have slowed down or disbanded, Melt-Banana has continued evolving its sound, incorporating drum machines and electronic elements into more recent material without sacrificing the chaotic energy that first made the band a cult favorite.
"I think mostly we are inspired by bands we played with in the past," Agata told Louder. "Especially bands who we toured with including support tour. Also, we both like playing video games, maybe we are also inspired by video games. And sounds in Tokyo. Tokyo is quite a noisy city if you walk in a busy area like Shibuya or Shinjuku or Akihabara or Harajuku, or somewhere like that. It's a natural thing for Japanese people but it might be one of the inspirations we get."
The newly announced North American tour gives fans another chance to experience that intensity firsthand. Known for delivering tightly executed sets packed with rapid-fire songs and relentless energy, Melt-Banana has built a reputation as one of the most exciting live acts in underground rock.
Thirty-four years after forming, the band continues to defy expectations by sounding just as adventurous as it did in the early 1990s. With another North American tour on the horizon, Melt-Banana is proving that its singular blend of noise, punk, and experimental rock remains as thrilling, and as unpredictable, as ever.
Related: '80s Rock Band Announces New Album 48 Years After Forming
You Won't Hear Emotionally Intelligent People Use This 1 Phrase With Friends, Psychologist Says
While we often grow up focusing on book smarts, someone who has high emotional intelligence traits adds value to workplaces and friendships.
"They have and display deep empathy toward the feelings of others," says Dr. Deborah Vinall, Psy.D., LMFT, a licensed therapist and the chief psychological officer with recovered.org. "They take accountability when they mess up and are capable of repair within relationships, rather than opting for a quick and clean cut-off, excuses or escalation."
Unsurprisingly, high-EQ traits are key in conflict resolution with friends.
"One of the hallmarks of high-EQ is the willingness and courage to face conflicts directly," Dr. Vinall tells Parade. "As we hone our ability to recognize, sit with and own painful feelings—including guilt—we grow our capacity to have honest conversations about difficult things with those in our lives. Self-awareness and empathy make repair possible."
On the other hand, emotional invalidation in friendships is toxic because it shuts people down.
"It communicates that their perspective, feelings and needs don't matter," Dr. Vinall says. "Feeling unseen and uncared for in this way erects barriers between people. Friendship cannot flourish without feeling cared for."
Certain phrases reek of emotional invalidation, especially one. For this reason, Dr. Vinall shares that you won't hear emotionally intelligent people use this one phrase with friends. She also reveals a few more phrases that these individuals avoid, along with tips for resolving conflicts with friends.
Read on for the dos and don'ts of high-EQ communication.
Related: 10 Subtle Signs a Friendship Is Draining You, Psychologists Warn
According to psychologist Dr. Vinall, "It's no big deal" is one of the phrases emotionally intelligent people avoid. Though often meant to diffuse a situation or comfort, it can cause emotional invalidation and minimize because it implies the friend is "wrong" for being upset.
Related: We Asked 4 Psychologists the One Phrase That Escalates Every Argument—They All Said the Same Thing
The Psychology of Invalidation: Why We Say It (And Why It Hurts)"It's no big deal" is emotionally invalidating yet so common. Dr. Vinall explains there's a psychological reason for invalidating phrases like this one, and it comes down to emotional intelligence.
"People use this phrase defensively, stemming from discomfort in sitting with and owning their own shortcomings," she tells Parade. "They may lack empathy and the ability to take another's perspective, projecting how they think they would feel onto the other person."
Yet, she points out that what may feel like a non-issue to one person may be significant for someone else, explaining, "People with low-EQ fail to recognize this disparity."
Emotional invalidation in friendships is toxic. Dr. Vinall shares that phrases like "It's no big deal" shut down the opportunity to repair the relationship.
"This response fails to take responsibility, which is the first crucial step for restoration," she says. "It shifts the focus from your behavior to making their reaction the problem. Most people, feeling shut down and unheard in this scenario, will withdraw."
She adds that saying "It's no big deal" won't change how they feel about the situation, but they may distance themselves from the friend who said it.
Harsh as it sounds, it makes sense. Unfortunately, Dr. Vinall says that emotional invalidation can have psychological harms, including:
- Erosion of self-worth
- Self-questioning
- Cognitive dissonance
- Reduced emotional regulation
"It is a form of gaslighting, which, as a pattern, is psychological abuse," she adds.
Related: 35 Common Toxic Positivity Phrases To Stop Using—Plus, What To Say Instead
What an Emotionally Intelligent Friend Says Instead: 3 ExamplesUnlike "It's no big deal," emotionally intelligent communication centers on empathy and validation. Here's what to say instead.
1. "I can see why that was hurtful"Dr. Vinall says this phrase is the opposite response to "It's no big deal."
"Where 'It's not that big of a deal' invalidates, these words validate," she states. "It doesn't mean you intended harm, but it acknowledges that your friend was hurt. This creates the softness and connection essential for repair."
Related: People Who Never Felt Validated as Kids Often Develop These 11 Traits as Adults, Psychologists Say
2. "I'm so sorry."There's a period after "sorry." That's intentional.
"This response...isn't packaged with 'but I didn't mean it,'" Dr. Vinall says. "There are no excuses. It simply asks that you look your friend in the eyes and take responsibility."
3. "Tell me more."This three-word response displays curiosity, a high EQ trait.
"These words demonstrate that you care by inviting your friend to draw you deeper into their inner world," Dr. Vinall notes. "You might not yet fully understand the rupture, but you are showing that you care enough to try."
Related: Psychologist Says if You Hate Silence in Conversations, You Likely Have These 7 Traits
6 Other Phrases That Signal Low Emotional IntelligencePeople who display signs of low intelligence, such as a lack of empathy, often struggle to find the "right" thing to say in difficult moments. It's possible to become more emotionally intelligent, and awareness is key. Here are a few more things emotionally intelligent people never say, according to a psychologist.
1. "That's not what happened."Recollections differ, but Dr. Vinall doesn't recommend using this phrase with a friend.
"Jumping to deny and counter your friend's experience rather than hearing the heart behind the complaint is invalidating and fails to move toward understanding or repair." she notes.
Related: 4 Social Habits That Show Low Emotional Intelligence, According to a Psychologist
2. "That's your problem."Friends are like teammates and, like they say, "Teamwork makes the dream work." So, it's no wonder that this particular phrase can be a nightmare for friendships. Dr. Vinall says it lacks empathy and shows no willingness even to try to understand the friend's gripe.
3. "You're making me so mad."This finger-pointing phrase is also unhelpful, and it's inaccurate. Dr. Vinall shares that it shifts responsibility for the speaker's feelings. The reality?
"Only you are responsible for your emotional reactions," she says.
4. "I'm sorry you feel that way."Emotionally intelligent people apologize. However, Dr. Vinall shares that this phrase is not an apology. It simply "masquerades behind the language of one."
"There is no accountability or responsibility taken to make change," she explains. "It sounds close to empathy but doesn't quite arrive at caring."
5. "I was just joking. You take everything too seriously."Your kindergarten teacher is right—it's not a joke unless everyone is laughing. Dr. Vinall says that low-EQ phrases like this one invalidate another person and hide behind a (rarely true) excuse that's hard to argue with.
"Even if a sincere joke landed painfully, the responsibility remains with the person making the joke to assess for appropriateness and sensitivity, and take ownership if it results in hurt," she says.
6. "You make everything such a big deal."Dr. Vinall shares that this phrase makes another (invalidating) shift, this time with the focus of "hearing a legitimate concern to attacking the person who was hurt."
"It is motivated by self-defense rather than care or communication," she notes.
Related: 11 Phrases That Make You ‘Instantly Unlikable’ With Strangers, According to an Etiquette Expert
How To Respond When a Friend Invalidates Your Feelings: 3 WaysIt can be disheartening to be on the receiving end of toxic friendship phrases. Emotional invalidation in friendships doesn't always have to be a game-changer. By engaging in emotionally intelligent communication, you can achieve conflict resolution with friends (and strengthen your bond).
Here are Dr. Vinall's top tips.
If a friend tells you something is "no big deal," Dr. Vinall suggests responding with statements like, "This is a big deal to me. I'd like to talk about it."
"This direct, even-toned response to invalidation....maintains your right and need for open and direct communication," she explains. "Invalidation demands that you stand down; these words represent remaining standing."
Related: 12 Phrases That Make You Instantly More Assertive—Without Sounding Rude, Psychologists Say
2. Model empathy without backing downDr. Vinall says some phrases exemplify emotionally intelligent conversation after invalidation, such as, "I know this is hard for you to hear, but I think it's important we talk it through."
"This response demonstrates your own emotional awareness of the conversation's challenges and empathy toward the other person without retreating or accepting the invalidation," she tells Parade.
3. Name the behaviorDirectness isn't always rude, especially if you say something like, "That feels really invalidating. I'd appreciate it if you could just listen to me right now."
"With people reacting out of discomfort rather than hostility, this gentle but firm naming may be enough to reset the conversation," Dr. Vinall notes.
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Source:- Dr. Deborah Vinall, Psy.D., LMFT, a licensed therapist and the chief psychological officer with recovered.org