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1999 Cult Classic Packed With Classic Rock Anthems Ranked Among the Best Rock Movies
Look, Almost Famous is almost a perfect movie. But Detroit Rock City hasNatasha Lyonne. And KISS. And some of the greatest rock anthems of all time shoved into one high-octane teen comedy about a group of kids trying to catch Gene Simmons and company live in Motor City. Ultimate Classic Rock gets it, as the authority on all things hard, soft, and heavy metal rock recently ranked the cult classic the best rock movie of 1999.
View this post on InstagramSet in 1978, when disco was queen, the film instead follows four rock-loving dudes — Hawk (EdwardFurlong), Lex (Giuseppe Andrews), Trip (James DeBello), and Jam (Sam Huntington) — on a mission to see their favorite band, KISS, in concert. Despite Simmons executive producing, the film — we have to say — was a total flop at the box office, but over time has found its people, thanks to its showcase of authentic band memorabilia, the 3,000-fan reenactment concert, and the absolutely killer soundtrack.
“The soundtrack features several KISS songs, including the titular tune, as well other hard rock classics, both in the original versions and as covers,” UCR writes. Key tracks off the album include Everclear’s cover of “The Boys Are Back in Town,” KISS’ own “Shout It Out Loud,” and Van Halen’s “Running With the Devil,” as well as hits from David Bowie, The Donnas, Pantera, and The Runaways.
Unlike the movie, the soundtrack did pretty well for itself, charting on the Billboard 200 and earning critical acclaim over the years. One of its tracks, “Beth,” described by American Songwriter as the “lush ballad that gave KISS their first pop hit” did even better.
“‘Beth’ found its way onto Destroyer to give [Peter] Criss a showcase, and the band snuck it on as the B-side to ‘Detroit Rock City,’ the third single released from the album,” AS writes. “But a funny thing happened: DJs locked onto ‘Beth’ and started playing it in favor of the A-side. KISS realized the opportunity and flipped the two songs in a rerelease, and it led to ‘Beth’ hitting No. 7 on the charts.”
So, we'll let Almost Famous (which, don't get us wrong, we absolutely love) have its "Tiny Dancer" moment. Because Detroit Rock City has Natasha. And Beth. And KISS. And honestly, that’s more than enough.
Related: 1968 Film About the Making of a Band’s Rock Masterpiece Ranked Among Best Rock Movies
Add Vintage Charm to Your Home With a Gorgeous Tiffany-Style Pendant Light, Now 40% Off
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Tiffany-Style Lighting Halston Adjustable Height Amber Dome Pendant, $140 (was $235) at ShopHQThis gorgeous pendant light has a handcrafted stained-glass dome topped with a fleur de lis-inspired pattern. It casts a soft and cozy glow in any room thanks to its intricately cut amber, brown, yellow, and ivory glass pieces. The fixture is paired with a black-painted metal canopy and includes a 65-inch adjustable cord that allows you to customize the hanging height from 9 inches up to 72.5 inches, depending on your space.
Use Code FREERETURN on Shop HQ to unlock $5 off shipping for a limited time.The pendant is 10 inches long and 10 inches wide, while the shade is about 6.5 inches tall. The canopy measures 4.75 inches long by one inch tall. Because the light is adjustable and doesn’t take up too much space, it makes it easy to place in nearly any room. The light does have to be in rooms inside your home, though. It’s only designed for indoor use.
The warm stained-glass color palette is suited best for kitchens, breakfast nooks, dining areas and entryways, but you can also place it in living rooms, bedrooms, and reading nooks. Its adjustable hanging length makes it versatile for lower and higher ceilings throughout your home. From an interior design standpoint, the warm amber tones go really well with wood furniture, vintage-inspired decor, brass accents, and other earthy textures that enhance the pendant’s timeless look.
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Britney Spears’ Handsome Son Jayden Federline, 19, Hits the Red Carpet for the First Time in 10 Years
Jayden James Federline, the younger son of Britney Spears and Kevin Federline, is back on the red carpet.
Jayden, 19, sported a bright smile while he attended the Dior 2027 Cruise collection fashion show at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) on May 13, 2026. Looking handsome in a green jacket and jeans, the rising star whipped off his sunglasses to smile for the cameras.
Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON on Getty Images
Jayden was also joined by a mystery lady in front of the cameras for the big event.
Photo by Monica Schipper on Getty Images
Jayden is Forging a Music CareerJayden's father, Kevin Federline, shared in his 2025 memoir You Thought You Knew that Jayden had relocated to Los Angeles to pursue a music career.
"Jayden has already returned to L.A., chasing his music dreams,” Kevin wrote, E! Online shared. Calling his son a "firecracker" who's "brimming with creative energy," Federline shared that Jayden and his older brother, Sean Preston, make him incredibly proud.
"Watching both of them grow into themselves has filled me with pride," he wrote. "We’ve done everything we could to prepare them for life, and I know they’re ready."
Britney Spears' Recent Legal TroubleSpears was arrested for DUI on March 4. According to arrest records from the Ventura Sheriff's Office acquired by PEOPLE, Spears was placed under arrest and released early in the morning on Thursday, March 5.
According to the California Highway Patrol, Spears was "driving erratically at a high rate of speed ... showed signs of impairment and submitted to a series of field sobriety tests" and "was subsequently arrested for a violation of California Vehicle Code section 23152(g), driving under the influence of a combination of drugs and alcohol." She was subsequently booked in Ventura County Main Jail.
She went on to check into rehab in Maine, where she stayed for 5 weeks.
While Spears has gone through periods of estrangement with her sons, it sounds like the trio is on good terms at the moment. They even headed out for a yachting trip together on the high seas in late March after her arrest.
View this post on InstagramLuke Bryan Issues Blunt Response to Fan's Criticism Over 'Clearly AI' Single
Country cowboy and American Idol judge Luke Bryan just shut down a bold accusation about his latest single, suggesting listeners should quit taking things so seriously after one implied the lyrics were written by AI.
The video, originally uploaded by an Instagram user who goes by the username jiujitsuweasel, was reposted on the social media platform by the Country Chord account. The creator spoke directly to into the camera, asking, “Luke Bryan, what the f--k is going on with your new song?” before playing a clip “for the people who haven’t heard it.”
The new track, called “Fish Hunt Golf Drink,” details what life would be like “if it wasn’t for the tax man” and all of life’s responsibilities.
“Every day would go: wake up, coffee, camo, climb tree,” the chorus goes. “Wet line, 18, fish, hunt, golf, drink all fall, all spring, all summer long, I’ll be living it up and living it on.”
The Instagrammer, who is obviously not a fan of the tune, went on to complain about the way the “clearly AI song” was bound to “pop off” on the charts, venting, “It literally just sounds like someone went to Google Gemini and said, ‘Make country song but make it sound like a 4-year-old…wrote it.'"
"No creativity in today and age [sic]," he added. "Everyone is so fried. We’re cooked, we’re done.”
According to the screenshot posted by the country-focused platform, Bryan clapped back in the comment section of the critical clip, writing, “It’s called a fun song. Just listen and have fun."
He added a piece of advice for the chronically online, concluding with, "Go get on a boat quit scrolling on your phone all day.”
While many fans agreed that the track was not an example of high-caliber songwriting, they were quick to agree that it wasn't that deep.
"It sounds like every Luke Bryan song ever," one replied. "Im not gonna go out of my way to listen to it but it’s just inoffensive fun music."
"I mean Luke Bryan is one of the originators of Bro-Country," another noted. "That whole genre exists in part because of him. I don’t think he intended it to be a deeply written philosophical song. More like a shotgun a beer while you’re already hammered type of song."
"Change the channel," they added, while someone else wondered, "why do people get so pressed over a fun song?"
"Song is exactly what Luke said, just about having fun," a fourth agreed. "the tiktoker might not be wrong but neither is Luke."
Related: Luke Bryan Warms Hearts With Impromptu Cover of '80s Country Hit
'Law & Order: SVU' Returns for Season 28 — With Possibly More Stabler
Another year, another season of Law & Order: SVU! The series starring Mariska Hargitay and Ice-T has been a staple of NBC for over a quarter of a century, making it the network's longest-running show. And, with the cancellation of the Organized Crime spinoff, does this mean we could see more Benson and Stabler (Christopher Meloni) in our lives?
Here's everything to know about Law & Order: SVU Season 28, including possible release window, cast and how to watch.
NBCUniversal
Yes! NBC has renewed Law & Order: Special Victims Unit for a 28th season, which will air this fall.
Related: Mariska Hargitay Reveals When She'll Retire from Law & Order: SVU
When is the Law & Order: SVU Season 28 release date?A formal premiere date has not been announced for SVU Season 28. However, given the window it usually airs, we could expect the season to kick off at some point in late September 2026.
How to watch Law & Order: SVUYou can tune in to watch Law & Order: SVU Season 27 live on NBC on Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET or stream it on Peacock.
How to stream Law & Order: SVU Season 28You can stream Law & Order: SVU Season 27 on Peacock.
Related: Every Law & Order: SVU ADA, Ranked
Who is in the Law & Order: SVU Season 28 cast?Any SVU fan—heck, even casual viewers—will know that the show's cast can be quite the revolving door. That said, here's who to expect to see in the Season 28 cast of series regulars:
Mariska Hargitay as Olivia Benson Mariska Hargitay as Olivia Benson in "Law & Order: SVU" Season 27NBCUniversal
Related: What Will Mariska Hargitay Do After Law & Order: SVU Ends? Here Are 10 Ideas
Ice-T as Odafin 'Fin' Tutuola Ice-T as Fin Tutuola in "Law & Order: SVU" Season 27NBCUniversal
Kelli Giddish as Amanda Rollins Kelli Giddish as Amanda Rollins on "Law & Order: SVU" Season 27NBCUniversal
Related: Kelli Giddish Reveals What She Missed Most About the Law & Order: SVU Set
Peter Scanavino as Dominick 'Sonny' Carisi Peter Scanavino as ADA Dominick "Sonny" Carisi Jr. in "Law & Order: SVU" Season 27NBCUniversal
Aimé Donna Kelly as Renee CurryNBCUniversal
Related: Aimé Donna Kelly on What Captain Curry's Arrival Really Means for the Squad on SVU
Corey Cott as Jake Griffin Corey Cott as Jake Griffin in "Law & Order: SVU" Season 27NBCUniversal
Kevin Kane as Terry Bruno Kevin Kane as Terry Bruno in "Law & Order: SVU" Season 27NBCUniversal
Norma Dumezweni as Kathryn Tynan Norma Dumezweni as Kathryn Tynan in "Law & Order: SVU" Season 27NBCUniversal
Chris Meloni as Elliot StablerRelated: 50 Best Law & Order: SVU Guest Stars, Ranked
Will Mariska Hargitay be in SVU Season 28? Mariska Hargitay as Olivia Benson in "Law & Order: SVU" Season 27NBCUniversal
Of course she will, and with bells on! She gushed to NBC Insider, "I love my job. I love going to work every day. I love the community that I'm in. I love my cast, my crew, and I love the intimacy of it all and the fact that we work in a culture that says, 'Let's do the work, let's have a fun time, and best idea wins.' It is such a team. It is such an incredible team, and we rely so much on each other. We're a unit. It's so sacred to me."
Related: Why Mariska Hargitay Was Almost Fired From Law & Order: SVU
Will Elliot be in Season 28 of SVU? Chris Meloni in "Law & Order: SVU"NBCUniversal
Most likely! Stabler has made frequent guest appearances in SVU since leaving the series to star on the spinoff Law & Order: Organized Crime. However, with the show's cancellation in May 2026, it's very possible we'll see more cameos from Meloni in Season 28.
Related: Zaddy Warbucks! Christopher Meloni's Net Worth in 2026
Do Benson and Stabler get together? Mariska Hargitay as Olivia Benson and Chris Meloni as Elliot Stabler in "Law & Order: Organized Crime"Peter Kramer/NBCUniversal
Will they or won't they?! So far, #Bensler haven't, but photos from the set of Season 27 hint at them possibly getting more affectionate than we're used to seeing them.
Meloni told TV Insider in April 2025, "I think we and the writers are trying to find the way, a satisfying way home. We just don't know what that home is ... There could be a whole new spinoff on unpacking that. I think it's wrapped up in how he's wired, how he's built, his Catholicism, the commitments he's made and promises and complicated."
Related: Mariska Hargitay Explains 'Last Minute' Decision to Block Bensler's Kiss on SVU
Is Ice-T leaving SVU?Oh, Hell no.
Ice-T addressed retirement rumors in 2024, writing on Instagram at the time, "RETIRE??? I'm lucky enough to Act and do Music…. As an Artist, those are jobs you simply NEVER want to stop doing.. Ever 💎."
View this post on InstagramRelated: Ice-T's Net Worth and How Much He's Made From Law & Order: SVU
Who is leaving Law & Order SVU?As of this article's publication, there's no news of any main cast members leaving Law & Order SVU for Season 28. The Season 27 premiere already saw Velasco (Octavio Pisano) and Silva (Juliana Aidén Martinez) leaving the series.
How many seasons have there been of Law & Order: SVU?So far, SVU has produced 27 full seasons.
Related: The 26 Best ‘Law & Order: SVU’ Guest Stars — From Robin Williams to Snoop
Is there a Law & Order: SVU Season 28 trailer?Check back closer to the premiere of Law & Order: SVU Season 28 for a first look at the new season!
Related: Is Your Favorite Show Coming Back or Canceled? See Our Fall TV 2026–2027 Guide
United Reveals First-of-Its-Kind Flight to Japan's Winter Wonderland—and Skiers Won't Be Able to Resist
United Airlines is launching a brand-new nonstop route to one of Japan's most magical winter destinations. The airline has announced that it plans to launch the first-ever nonstop service between the mainland United States and Sapporo, the largest city on Japan's northern island of Hokkaido.
Beginning on December 11, 2026, United will operate three weekly flights between San Francisco International Airport and New Chitose Airport (CTS), near Sapporo, aboard a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. The seasonal route is expected to run through late March 2027, pending final government approval.
The announcement marks a major milestone for travelers heading to northern Japan, especially skiers and snowboarders who have long dreamed of easier access to Hokkaido's world-famous powder snow.
Until now, travelers flying from the continental U.S. to Sapporo had to connect through Tokyo or other Asian hubs before continuing north. United's new route eliminates that extra step entirely, creating a direct link to one of Japan's top winter tourism regions.
"Whether customers are dreaming of skiing in Sapporo, planning a business trip to Tokyo with some exploration added in, or an even bigger adventure across Asia, United gives travelers more ways to get there than any U.S. airline," Patrick Quayle, Senior Vice President of Network Planning and Global Alliances of United Airlines, said in a press release. "Our new nonstop service from San Francisco to Sapporo makes it easier to vacation in one of Japan's most unique destinations."
Sapporo is best known internationally for the annual Sapporo Snow Festival, which draws millions of visitors each year with its elaborate snow and ice sculptures. The city also serves as a gateway to Hokkaido's legendary ski areas, including Niseko, Furano, Rusutsu, and Kiroro—destinations famous for deep, dry powder that consistently ranks among the best skiing conditions in the world.
United's new service is also expected to benefit travelers across the U.S. thanks to the airline's extensive San Francisco hub. According to the airline, nearly 80 U.S. cities will gain one-stop access to Sapporo through convenient connections in California. The route will also become United's shortest "true" transpacific flight from the mainland U.S., highlighting the growing demand for tourism to northern Japan.
Related: How to Visit the Viral Monkey, Punch, in Japan's Ichikawa City Zoo
United is not the only airline pursuing the opportunity. Air Canada recently announced plans for seasonal nonstop service between Vancouver and Sapporo this winter as competition heats up for travelers eager to reach Hokkaido's ski resorts. However, United's launch is scheduled to begin several days earlier, making it the first airline to operate nonstop service to Sapporo from North America.
Industry experts say the route reflects the booming popularity of Japan travel among Americans, especially travelers looking beyond Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka for more nature-focused and seasonal experiences.
For winter-sports gurus, the appeal is obvious: Getting to Japan's snow country just became dramatically easier.
Former 'Laguna Beach' Star Welcomes New Baby
Fresh off the heels of The Reunion: Laguna Beach tour, actor and reality star Stephen Colletti, 39, is officially a dad! Colletti and his wife, NASCAR reporter Alex Weaver, 32, just announced the arrival of their first baby together and shared his sweet baby name.
Colletti and Weaver announced they were expecting their first baby together back in January 2026. They shared the news via Instagram with black-and-white photos of her baby bump. The couple married in October 2025.
Photo by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin on Getty Images
The shared Instagram announcement includes a teaser black-and-white photo of Baby Colletti holding onto mom and dad's hands and is simply captioned with his full name: "Rhodes August Colletti 🤍"
Proud dad Colletti jumped right into to the comments with a bunch of excited emojis, "👶🏻👸🏼😊."
More responses are piling up in the comments too:
- Laguna Beach co-stars Lauren Conrad, Lo Bosworth Natale, and Talan Torriero were quick to leave "Likes" on the announcement.
- Laguna Beach co-star Dieter Schmitz wrote: "🥰Congrats you two!!!!!! Can’t wait to meet little Rhodes!!!!"
- James Lafferty, Colletti's co-creator on their Netflix show Everyone Is Doing Great wrote: "That’s one lucky little human. Congratulations you two. Best news ever ❤️❤️❤️"
- Alexandra Park, an actor in Everyone Is Doing Great and wife to Lafferty, said: "The world is so ready for you Rhodes August !!! Love you 3 🥹🩵🫶🏼 🫶🏼🌙♥️🩵🌙🫶🏼"
Still waiting to see what Kristin Cavallari has to say!
Related: ‘Laguna Beach’ Cast Reunites 20 Years Later: Where Are They Now?
Check out the Instagram baby announcement from Colletti and Weaver:
View this post on InstagramBig congratulations to the new mom and dad!
1984 Hard Rock Ballad About a Drummer’s Little Sister Became a ‘Song That Defines an Era’
There are so many reasons Night Ranger’s quintessential ’80s power ballad, “Sister Christian,” still hits decades later: the protective older brother story behind it, the fact that it’s belted out by the band’s drummer, how it instantly whisks you right back to MTV’s golden era when Night Ranger dominated its airwaves, THE HAIR. Maybe that’s why every time the song plays, we’re suddenly “motoring” back to 1984 again.
View this post on InstagramOriginally titled “Sister Kristy,” the real name of drummer Kelly Keagy’s younger sister, the song took on its now-iconic title after the band persuaded Keagy to change it: “Sister Christian is much cooler,” bassist and singer Jack Blades told MusicRadar.
Keagy wrote the track about watching his 10-years-younger sister grow up fast, “motoring” — local Oregon slang for cruising around town — and navigating adolescence. A departure from the band’s harder-edged sound at the time, the emotional contribution helped define the group's identity, with Keagy delivering the vocals from behind his drum kit.
Released as the second single off Night Ranger’s second album, Midnight Madness, “Sister Christian” became a massive hit. Peaking at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100, the power ballad not only became the band’s signature track, but one of the defining rock anthems of the 1980s. Boosted by heavy MTV rotation, the song helped launch Night Ranger into the big leagues.
“When we started touring with the Midnight Madness record, we were playing 3,000-seat theatres. But when ‘Sister Christian’ hit we were selling out arenas, 10,000 people a night,” Blades said. “We really felt that we had arrived at that point. It was a defining moment for us.”
Originally formed as Ranger in 1980, Night Ranger built its sound around melodic, riff-heavy rock, soaring harmonies, and arena-sized power ballads. Alongside Keagy and Blades, the band was composed of guitarists Brad Gillis and Jeff Watson, and keyboardist Alan Fitzgerald. While the group delivered on hard rock energy, it was ultimately their softer side that made them stars.
“In the ’80s everybody came out with a power ballad,” Blades said. “And luckily for us, we had a great one. It was never a No. 1 record, but it’s a song that defines that whole era.”
Decades later, the singalong jam reverberates throughout pop culture, appearing in films like 1997's Boogie Nights and the 2009 remake ofFriday the 13th.
“Honestly, when I think of the 1980s on a cultural level, I think of this power ballad from Night Ranger, American Songwriter writes. And TBH, yeah, so do we.
Catch Night Ranger on their 2026 tour. Dates, tickets, and the rest can all be found here.
Walmart's $28 Solar Light 10-Pack Is 'Bright,' 'Beautiful,' and 'So Pretty' at Night
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If you're planning on hosting any outdoor parties this spring and summer, you'll want to get your yard, garden, or patio looking its best. Walmart's latest decor find is an easy way to add some gorgeous ambient lighting to your space, and it's now on sale for nearly 50% off. For a limited time, the top-rated ExcMark Solar Light 10-Pack is available for just $28, down from $55.
All five color combinations are currently marked down to the same discounted price. You can shop the glossy black set with cool white, warm white, or multicolored bulbs, the brown set with warm white bulbs, or the matte black set with cool white lights.
ExcMark Solar Light 10-Pack, $28 (was $55) at Walmart Shop at WalmartNo matter which color you opt for, these solar lights will help brighten up your space for all your outdoor gatherings, creating a warm, cozy atmosphere wherever you place them. They have a simple, sleek design that's versatile enough to use in a variety of spots, including patios, gardens, walkways, decks, and more. They're also easy to operate, with a sensor that automatically turns on at sunset and off at sunrise.
Featuring an IP44 rating, the ExcMark solar lights are built to withstand all types of weather conditions, including rain, snow, sleet, and thunder. Thanks to their wireless design, they can be installed in just a matter of minutes. Each light is durable, water-resistant, and features a rechargeable battery that powers up in the sunlight and remains lit for six to eight hours once fully charged.
Related: Walmart's 'Sleek' $30 Floor Lamp Adds 'Just the Right Amount of Light' to Small Spaces
These solar pathway lights are a Walmart bestseller for a reason, earning over 2,800 five-star ratings from shoppers. One reviewer said they're " bright" and "beautiful," while another called them "so pretty" at night. A third buyer highlighted the set's impressive quality, noting that it looks "very elegant" placed along their walkway.
Shop More Deals- ExcMark Solar Lights 10-Pack, $31 (was $60) at Walmart
- Beatineon Outdoor String Lights, $37 (was $43) at Walmart
- Szrsth Outdoor Solar Light, $45 (was $163) at Walmart
If you’ve been looking for a simple and affordable way to spruce your outdoor space for warm-weather season, now's your chance to score a great discount. Grab this highly rated solar light 10-pack for under $30 before this flash deal ends at Walmart.
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The FIFA World Cup Is Getting a Super Bowl-Style Halftime Show With Madonna, Shakira, and BTS
The FIFA World Cup final is officially getting the Super Bowl treatment.
FIFA has officially announced that Madonna, Shakira, and BTS will headline the first-ever halftime show in World Cup history during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19, 2026. The massive performance marks a major shift for the global soccer tournament, which has traditionally focused entirely on the match itself without a dedicated mid-game concert spectacle.
The announcement was made through an official FIFA press release. The Final Halftime Show is being produced by Global Citizen—the international advocacy organization known for producing large-scale music events—in partnership with Live Nation and Done + Dusted.
The Halftime Show will support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, an initiative aiming to raise $100 million USD to "expand access to quality education and football opportunities for children worldwide." The Fund will match $1 from every ticket sold to the FIFA World Cup 2026 to support social projects around the world.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the Final's show as a "historic moment" for the tournament and said the organization wanted to create a global entertainment experience that matches the scale of the world's most-watched sporting event.
View this post on Instagram"Madonna, Shakira, and BTS are global icons whose music transcends borders and generations, and we are proud to welcome them to the first-ever FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show curated by Chris Martin of Coldplay," Infantino said in the press release.
In a short film announcing the performers, Martin added that the show will be "all about togetherness… and everyone's invited."
The lineup itself spans multiple generations and continents, underscoring FIFA's goal of creating a truly global performance. Madonna brings decades of pop culture history and stadium-show experience, while Shakira has long been associated with soccer thanks to her iconic World Cup anthem "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)," which became synonymous with the 2010 tournament in South Africa.
"Performing at the World Cup Final in support of the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund is deeply meaningful to me," Madonna said in a statement.
Shakira added that she has spent her life doing two things: making songs and building schools. And now, those two paths will "come together" for her at the FIFA World Cup.
"Standing alongside Madonna and BTS, I’ll be performing 'Dai Dai,' the song I created for this World Cup and for the kids around the world we will reach with the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund," she said. "My hope is that on the world's biggest stage, the importance of investing in children's education steals the show!"
Meanwhile, BTS adds an enormous international fanbase to the event. The K-pop supergroup remains one of the most influential music acts in the world, and their participation is expected to drive huge global viewership and social media engagement surrounding the final.
"Music is the universal language of hope and harmony, and we're honored to celebrate that power at the World Cup by connecting with millions of viewers around the world in support of children’s education," BTS said in the press release.
The 2026 World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marking the first time three countries have hosted the tournament together.
While the NFL's Super Bowl halftime show has become one of the most anticipated entertainment events of the year, halftime performances have never been part of FIFA World Cup finals—until now.
Where Is Alex Murdaugh Today? New Updates in the Shocking Case
Alex Murdaugh was a bigwig white shoe attorney from a family dynasty—but did he also have bloodstained hands?
In a case that would make for a true crime junkie's wet dream, in June 2021, Murdaugh's wife, Maggie Murdaugh, and son Paul Murdaugh, were both found dead from gunshot wounds on his property. Prosecutors argued that Alex killed them to cover up his own litany of financial crimes.
Alex Murdaugh maintained his innocence, even after he admitted his own alibi was a lie. A jury found him guilty of the slayings three years ago, but in May 2026, an appeals court overturned his conviction.
The South Carolina Supreme Court found that a court clerk in the murder trials may have skewed the trial in the prosecution's favor, and throughout the initial criminal trial, Murdaugh's defense attorneys painted a picture of mishandled evidence, poor police work and, essentially, a witch hunt.
What really happened, and where is Alex Murdaugh now? Read on for details and the latest updates on the case that captured the world's attention for nearly half a decade (and counting).
Who is Alex Murdaugh? Alex Murdaugh in court on Aug. 29, 2022Photo by The Island Packet on Getty Images
Alex Murdaugh was once a wealthy, powerful and prominent South Carolina attorney, and his family had a dynasty in the state's legal field for a century: His great-grandfather, grandfather and father (Randolph Murdaugh Sr., Randolph “Buster” Murdaugh Jr. and Randolph Murdaugh III) were all prosecutors in their district, according to PEOPLE.
Alex joined the family's private law firm, then known as Peters, Murdaugh, Parker, Eltzroth & Detrick (PMPED).
Alex married Margaret “Maggie” Murdaugh in 1993 after meeting and falling in love when they were in college. They shared sons Richard “Buster” Alexander Murdaugh Jr. and Paul Terry Murdaugh.
Related: Want More ‘Monster’? Real-Life Criminals (or Suspects) Who Could Be Ryan Murphy’s Next Subject
What happened with Alex Murdaugh? Alex Murdaugh in court on Feb. 23, 2023Photo by The State on Getty Images
Phew, we'll try to keep this is as simple as we can, because it's a bit of a doozy.
In February 2019, Paul Murdaugh was operating a boat in an accident that killed 19-year-old Mallory Beach. Paul was scheduled to be criminally indicted in that case in July 2021, and the Murdaugh family also faced a civil suit from the Beach family.
On June 7, 2021, Maggie and Paul Murdaugh were both found shot to death near the dog kennels on the Murdaughs' sprawling Colleton County, S.C., property. Paul was shot in the head and chest at point blank range with a shotgun, while Maggie was shot several times, including in the back, with a .300 Blackout assault-style rifle.
Alex Murdaugh called 911 just after 10 p.m. that evening, reportedly telling dispatchers, "I need the police and an ambulance immediately. My wife and child were just shot badly."
Alex Murdaugh initially denied being near the dog kennels on the evening of the slayings, claiming to have been visiting his mother at her home. However, Paul had posted a Snapchat video showing Alex in the vicinity at 8:44 p.m., which ABC 11 reported is right before when investigators believe Maggie and Paul were murdered. In court, Alex apologized and admitted he lied about being at the kennels at the time of the murders, but denied killing his wife and son. The clothes Alex wore in Paul's Snapchat video have never been found.
Though Alex maintained his innocence, other evidence, including GPS and cellphone data, weakened his alibi considerably.
Prosecutors alleged that Alex killed Paul and Maggie in an effort to avoid his own financial crimes from being exposed in the Beach civil and criminal cases. It was a motive that held water with the jury, in part because his firm's chief financial officer confronted him about allegations of defrauding his clients just hours before the slayings.
According to NPR, Alex Murdaugh was charged with 22 financial crimes (including fraud, tax evasion and money laundering) committed over a decade against 18 different victims, stealing a total of more than $12 million from clients. In most of the cases, he'd win a large settlement for a client he represented, but lie and tell the client that the settlement was significantly smaller, and pocketed the difference.
In one case, he told his client—whose mother was killed by a drunk driver—that they won a $30,000 settlement, when in reality, it was a $180,000 settlement, and he kept $150,000 for himself. In another, he sued his insurers after his housekeeper died in a fall on his property. Alex then told his housekeeper's son that they didn't win the case, when in reality, they got $4 million, all of which Alex stole.
Prosecutors accused Alex of stealing clients' funds to support his lavish lifestyle and his opioid addiction.
Alex Murdaugh admitted to his financial crimes, but steadfastly denied murdering Maggie and Paul. He was convicted of both murders in March 2023, with jurors deliberating for less than three hours before announcing their verdict. He was sentenced to two consecutive life sentences.
He was also convicted of all 22 financial crime charges, for which he was sentenced to 40 years in prison.
Related: What Are People Saying About Alex Murdaugh’s Murder Convictions Being Overturned?
Where is Alex Murdaugh today? Alex Murdaugh in court on Jan. 29, 2024Photo by The State on Getty Images
Alex Murdaugh's murder convictions were overturned on May 13, 2026, but he is still in prison serving his 40-year sentence for his financial crimes.
The New York Times reported that the South Carolina Supreme Court granted Murdaugh a new trial, citing "shocking jury interference" from a court clerk in his original trial.
The clerk in question, Becky Hill, pleaded guilty to jury tampering and perjury in May 2025, and was sentenced to probation, 100 hours of community service and to pay $11,880 in restitution.
Related: Jason Clarke Is Unrecognizable as Alex Murdaugh
What happened with Buster Murdaugh? Buster Murdaugh at Alex Murdaugh's murder trial on Feb. 16, 2023Photo by The State on Getty Images
Buster Murdaugh was expelled from the University of South Carolina School of Law in 2019 for poor academic performance and plagiarism, The State reported. After Alex paid a prominent attorney $60,000 to get Buster readmitted, he was slated to begin classes again in January 2022 ... but deferred for pretty obvious reasons.
Understandably, Buster hasn't had the easiest time adjusting following the murders of his mother and brother (let alone whether or not his dad was the killer).
In September 2021, Alex Murdaugh allegedly hired a man to shoot him in what would, essentially, be an assisted suicide so that Buster could collect a $10 million insurance payout before any of Alex's criminal trials ensued. It didn't work, and the bullet barely grazed Alex's head.
Later, Buster testified for the defense in his father's first murder trial, admitting he knew about his father's opioid addiction and claiming that Alex was "heartbroken" at Paul and Maggie's deaths.
After Alex Murdaugh was convicted, Buster released a statement unequivocally denying that he was involved in the 2015 hit and run homicide of his classmate Stephen Smith. Buster was never a suspect nor was he ever questioned about the Smith case, which was re-opened after Murdaugh's first verdict came down.
Buster also was named the civil suit from the Beach family. In January 2023, he and Maggie Murdaugh's estate reportedly settled for a "substantial" amount.
Related: The 64 Best Mystery, Thriller and True Crime Books
What is Alex Murdaugh's surviving son doing now? Buster Murdaugh in "The Fall of the House of Murdaugh"FOX Nation
Buster Murdaugh is essentially living in isolation, a friend told PEOPLE.
“He really withdrew after everything happened,” the friend said. “He has really closed off and built walls around himself.” The friend noted that Buster also avoids his Hampton, S.C., hometown, and Buster told Alex in recorded prison calls that strangers frequently stopped and berated him on the streets.
Buster and Brooklynn White moved to Bluffton, S.C., in May 2023, TMZ reported, and they married two years later.
An insider told the Daily Mail that Buster was upset when Alex Murdaugh's conviction was overturned.
“He’s not happy. This is going to put him through all of this again. He has to relive the hardest years of his life all over again.”
The insider added, “Buster needs some time to process this. But he’s not happy at all. … This is a nightmare. How is Buster supposed to move forward to have this happen again?”
Related: Where Is ‘Tiger King’ Joe Exotic Now and Is He Married? Find Out the Latest on the Ex-Zoo Owner
Does Buster Murdaugh still believe his dad? Buster Murdaugh in "The Fall of the House of Murdaugh"FOX Nation
Buster Murdaugh revealed in the Fox Nation special The Fall of the House of Murdaugh that he believes his father is innocent.
“I do not think that he could be affiliated with endangering my mother and brother,” he said. “We have been here for a while now and that's been my stance.”
He added, “I think that I hold a very unique perspective that nobody else in that courtroom ever held. And I know the love that I have witnessed.”
Related: Rob Reiner's Murder: Everything We Know So Far
How much money did Mallory Beach's family get from the Murdaughs?The exact amount of the Maggie Murdaugh estate and Buster Murdaugh settlement with Mallory Beach's family hasn't been publicly revealed.
Related: Robert Shapiro's Net Worth in 2026 From Representing O.J. Simpson, Erik Menéndez and More
Who was driving the boat that killed Mallory Beach?Paul Murdaugh was reportedly driving the boat during the accident that killed Mallory Beach. Buster Murdaugh was believed to have provided the ID used to buy alcohol that was consumed at the time of the crash.
Related: Everything to Know About Sean Combs' Criminal Charges and Lawsuits
What is the Murdaugh family's net worth?The Murdaugh family net worth is effectively zero: Aside from legal bills, because of Alex Murdaugh's financial crimes, his remaining assets (reportedly about $1.2 million) were ordered to be paid out to his victims.
Related: Did Ed Gein Actually Help Catch Ted Bundy? Here Are the Facts
What is the latest on the Murdaugh case? Alex Murdaugh in court on Jan. 16, 2024Photo by The State on Getty Images
Alex Murdaugh's conviction for the murders of Maggie Murdaugh and Paul Murdaugh was overturned on appeal in May 2026 due to suspected jury and evidence tampering. A new trial date has not yet been announced.
Related: The 50 Best 'Law & Order: SVU' Episodes of All Time, Ranked
1972 Rock Classic, Originally a Powerful American Anthem, Became a No. 1 Hit
Fifty-four years ago, the British rock group The Hollies topped multiple charts with their hit song "Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress."
Released on April 17, 1972, as a single from their eleventh studio album, Distant Light, "Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress" was an global hit. Upon its release, the song climbed up international charts, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, No. 1 in Canada, No. 1 in South Africa, No. 2 in Australia and No. 32 on the U.K. Singles Chart. The song's ability to appeal to wide demographics contributed to its longstanding success.
"Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress" also experienced significant commercial triumph. Within the year of its release, the track was certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for selling over 1.5 million copies in the U.S alone. Its chart dominance earned it the title of Billboard's No. 24 song of 1972.
Allan Clarke, Bobby Elliot, Graham Nash, Tony Hicks and Eric Haydock of the rock group The Hollies hold gold disc awards presented to them for record sales.Evening Standard/Getty Images
Produced by Ron Richards and The Hollies via Parlophone Records, "Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress" is recognizable for its gritty sound. Inspired by American roots-rock band Creedence Clearwater Revival, the track was defined by its swamp-rock elements that perfectly complimented the song's themes. Despite being performed by a British band, the song was nothing short of a quintessential Americana anthem.
Written by lead singer Allan Clarke, Roger Cook, and Roger Greenaway, "Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress" tells the story of an FBI agent who is falling in love with a mysterious woman during a undercover speakeasy raid in the Prohibition era. The lyrics touch on classic Southern Americana themes like dark narrative storytelling and outlaw culture to intentionally emulate the swamp-rock style.
Even after over five decades, The Hollies' chart-topping hit continues to resonate with listeners. The track has continued to persevere in the streaming era, totaling nearly 700 million streams on Spotify alone.
Related: 1977 Country Classic, Originally an Overnight Radio Anthem, Became a No. 1 Hit
Child Star Mourns Death of Fellow 'Andy Griffith Show' Actor and Close Friend
Former child star Keith Thibodeaux is mourning the loss of fellow actor Dennis Rush, his longtime friend and former co-star from The Andy Griffith Show.
Thibodeaux, who famously played Little Ricky on I Love Lucy under the stage name Richard Keith, shared the news in an emotional Facebook post alongside a photo of the two actors together at a fan event.
Related: Child Star Remembered for ‘Leave It to Beaver’ Dies at 76
“I just got word that my old buddy Dennis Rush, a fine actor and a great friend passed away,” Thibodeaux wrote. “What a shock.”
He continued by remembering Rush’s connection to The Andy Griffith Show, where the two appeared together as part of Opie Taylor’s (Ron Howard) circle of childhood friends.
“He was with us as one of Opie’s buddies,” Thibodeaux wrote. “He’s the one sitting down. I will miss him at the Andy Griffith festivals as we had so many stories to tell.”
Related: Former Child Star Dead at 33 After Sudden Medical Emergency
In a 2022 interview with WRAL, Rush said working on The Andy Griffith Show was "the best."
"I got to be in eight episodes over about a two-and-a-half year period. It was just the best of the best," said Rush in the interview. He also said that he got his start playing James Cagney's son in the movie Man of a Thousand Faces and that he and the Oscar-winning actor exchanged Christmas cards every year until Cagney died in 1986.
Thibodeaux also revealed that he had recently prayed with Rush after learning of his leukemia diagnosis.
“I’m just glad that I was able to pray with him last month at one of the festivals when he found out that he was diagnosed with leukemia,” he added. “Mayberry has lost a great citizen and a great friend!”
Related: Last Surviving ‘I Love Lucy’ Cast Member Remembers Lucille Ball as ‘Very Demanding’
Fans and former colleagues quickly filled the comments section with condolences. Lucie Arnaz Luckinbill, daughter of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, wrote, “Sorry, Keith. Those decades long friendships are the best. He will save a nice place for you where he's going, I'm sure.”
Another fan commented, “My condolences for the loss of a long time friend. It seems there is much loss of our generation these days.”
Rush appeared in eight episodes of The Andy Griffith Show as Howie Pruitt, one of Opie Taylor’s close friends. Thibodeaux played Johnny Paul Jason, another recurring member of Opie’s group.
According to his IMDb biography, Rush was born in California in 1951 and appeared in a number of classic television series during the 1950s and 1960s, including Wagon Train, Laramie, Gunsmoke, Perry Mason, The Lucy Show and Alfred Hitchcock Presents. His final listed acting credit came in 1966, but it sounds like he routinely attended Andy Griffith Show fan events.
Related: 'Andy Griffith' Star Had Strong Words For Co-Star Don Knotts in Memoir
United Airlines Announces Daily Nonstop Flights Between Houston and Caracas, Ending 9-Year Break in Service to Venezuela
United Airlines is officially returning to Venezuela for the first time in nearly a decade.
The airline announced this week that it will resume daily nonstop flights between Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport and Caracas' Simón Bolívar International Airport beginning August 11, 2026, marking the end of a nine-year suspension of service to the South American country.
The route, which is still pending final government approval, will operate aboard a Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft and reconnect one of the most significant air corridors between the United States and Venezuela. United previously operated flights to Venezuela for more than 20 years before suspending service in June 2017 amid political instability and security concerns.
According to United's announcement, the daily service is designed to "reopen a key economic gateway," while also making it easier for families to reconnect after years of limited travel options between the two countries.
"This route reconnects communities and creates new opportunities for travelers and businesses across our region," Houston Airports Director of Aviation Jim Szczesniak said in a statement.
Houston Mayor John Whitmire added that he is "pleased to see the nonstop service resume between Houston and Caracas," because "it reflects the importance of Houston's international connections and economic ties across the globe."
Industry analysts agree that the route should support growing business travel tied to Venezuela's oil and energy sector as economic ties between the two countries continue to evolve.
"After nearly a decade, United welcomes the opportunity to resume service between Houston and Venezuela thanks to the leadership and support of the Department of Transportation and the U.S. government," Patrick Quayle, Senior Vice President of Global Network Planning and Alliances for United Airlines, said in a press release. "This flight will help strengthen cultural and economic ties across the Americas and further reinforce United's Houston hub as a leading gateway to the region."
The relaunch comes amid a broader reopening of commercial air service between the U.S. and Venezuela. In April, American Airlines resumed flights between Miami and Caracas, becoming the first U.S. carrier to restore service after the U.S. government lifted a long-standing ban on commercial flights to Venezuela earlier this year.
Related: American Airlines Receives Clearance to Resume Nonstop Flights Between Miami and Venezuela
Houston is expected to play a particularly important role in the renewed connection because of its strong ties to the energy industry and its large Venezuelan community. United said its Houston hub currently offers up to 100 daily flights to more than 50 destinations across Latin America and the Caribbean, along with connections to more than 180 destinations worldwide.
The Houston-to-Caracas flight will depart Houston at 11:45 p.m. and arrive in Caracas at 5:30 a.m. the following morning. The return flight will leave Caracas at 8 a.m. and land back in Houston at 12:30 p.m.
Anthropologie's 'Cute' Initial Pendant Paperclip Chain Necklace Makes the Perfect Gift, and It's Just $34
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If you're looking for a gift that feels both stylish and personal, the By Anthropologie Initial Pendant Paperclip Chain Necklace is a charming choice that's sure to impress. Originally $48, this effortless necklace is now marked down to $34, and it's versatile enough for everyday wear or special occasions.
At this price, it's a perfect way to treat yourself or someone special, especially during graduation season or for birthdays.
By Anthropologie Initial Pendant Paperclip Chain Necklace, $34 (was $48) at Anthropologie Shop at AnthropologieThis necklace stands out thanks to its classic-meets-modern design. The delicate paperclip chain feels fresh and current, while the 14-karat gold-plated initial pendant brings a touch of timeless elegance. It's a piece that feels personalized without being over-the-top, striking a lovely balance between everyday wear and something a little more meaningful. The 15-inch chain comes with a three-inch extender, so you can adjust the length to suit your neckline or layering style.
The necklace's lobster clasp makes it easy to put on and take off, and the gold-plated brass ensures it's both lightweight and durable. The adjustable length and three-inch extender give you control over the fit, so you can feel confident and comfortable whether you’re dressing up or down.
Shoppers are already calling this necklace the perfect gift. It's easy to see why. A monogrammed gift is the kind of present that feels thoughtful and personal without requiring much effort, and at $34, it's an affordable way to make someone's day. The necklace comes beautifully packaged, making it ready for gifting the moment it arrives.
"Cute necklace," one shopper stated. "Purchased this as a gift for my daughter. She loved it and the thicker chain links."
Anthropologie is known for accessories that blend whimsy with sophistication, and this necklace is no exception. Its paperclip chain is just trendy enough to feel current, while the gold initial ensures it stays classic for years to come. Plus, the adjustable length and lobster clasp add a practical touch you'll appreciate every time you wear it.
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If you're looking for a gift that's stylish, meaningful, and easy to love, the $34 Initial Pendant Paperclip Chain Necklace from Anthropologie checks all the boxes. It's a small luxury that makes a big impression, perfect for celebrating someone special or simply treating yourself to a little extra shine.
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Costco's Entire Food Court Menu, Ranked From Worst to Best
Walking into Costco is an experience in itself. From the moment you pull up to the warehouse giant, you already know you’re about to spend more time in there than you'd originally planned. After the store's greeters give you a warm welcome upon arrival, you’re thrown into a world full of bulk deals, oversized snacks and some of the most random finds you never knew you needed. One minute you’re grabbing paper towels, and the next you’re staring at giant tubs of candy, trending food items, TVs bigger than your living room and enough free samples to count as lunch.
But no matter how good the shopping experience is, the real star of the warehouse store has always been the Costco food court. Even on days when I don’t need a single thing for the house, somehow I still find myself pulling into that parking lot just for a quick bite. The legendary food court has become a comfort spot for shoppers thanks to its affordable prices, huge portions and a selection of menu items that honestly have no business being this good.
In the spirit of understanding everything that Costco offers in its food court, I decided to do the ultimate taste test. I tried the entire Costco food court menu (minus the Rotisserie Chicken Chef Salad because it wasn't available) and ranked every item from worst to best to see which foods are truly worth the hype and which ones should probably stay off your tray.
Related: 50 Cult-Favorite Things to Always Buy at Costco
Courtesy Choya Johnson
Costco's Entire Food Court Menu, Ranked Worst to BestHere's my ranking of every Costco food court item after I taste-tested everything.
13. Chicken BakeCourtesy Choya Johnson
The Chicken Bake might honestly be one of the most overrated things on the Costco food court menu. I know people swear by it, but for me it just felt way too heavy without enough payoff in flavor. The bread gets dry fast, the chicken can feel overly processed and after a couple bites, eating it felt more like a chore and less like enjoying a snack.
Sure, it’s cheesy and packed with bacon and filling, but it feels like something you regret halfway through while still trying to convince yourself it’s good because everybody else says it is.
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12. Chocolate SundaeCourtesy Choya Johnson
This chocolate sundae isn’t terrible, but compared to everything else Costco offers, it just feels a little basic. The vanilla ice cream is still creamy and smooth, but the chocolate syrup overload makes it feel extra sweet without much balance. A few bites in, and it starts tasting more sugary than satisfying.
It’s the kind of dessert you grab because it looks good in the moment, but then you realize later that you probably should’ve picked something else.
Courtesy Choya Johnson
I wanted to like this more than I actually did. The caramel tries hard to carry the drink, but the coffee flavor gets buried under all the sweetness. It almost tastes more like a melted dessert than an actual cold brew. Don’t get me wrong. It’s refreshing to drink while walking around Costco, but after a few sips it starts feeling heavy and overly sweet instead of smooth and balanced.
Related: The 13 Best Things To Buy at the Costco Deli, According to a Superfan
10. Cold Brew Mocha FreezeCourtesy Choya Johnson
This cold brew offering was slightly better than the caramel version because the mocha gives it more depth, but it still falls into that same category of being more sugar than coffee.
It’s not bad by any means, but if you’re expecting a bold coffee flavor, you’re probably going to leave disappointed. It tastes like something that sounds better on paper than it actually drinks in real life.
Courtesy Choya Johnson
The strawberry sundae feels fresher than the chocolate sundae version, and the fruit topping helps cut through some of the sweetness. The problem is that the strawberry mix can sometimes taste more syrupy than like real strawberry fruit, which takes away from it a little.
It's still enjoyable and definitely refreshing after walking around the warehouse for an hour, but it's not something I’d go out of my way to order every visit.
Related: Everything You Need to Know About Buying Costco Cakes
8. Strawberry Banana SmoothieCourtesy Choya Johnson
This smoothie feels like Costco trying to give you a healthier option while still keeping it sweet enough for the food court crowd. The strawberry flavor stands out the most, while the banana smooths everything together.
It’s refreshing, cold and easy to drink while shopping, but it still has a slightly artificial smoothie taste that keeps it from being truly great.
Courtesy Choya Johnson
This sandwich feels like one of the Costco food court's most underrated menu items. The turkey and melted provolone combination works really well, and the toasted bread gives it a nice crunch. It’s warm, savory and honestly feels more like a deli sandwich than typical food court food. The only downside is that it can quickly get a little greasy and messy, but flavor-wise it deserves more love than it gets.
Related: How to Make a Costco Baguette 10x Better
6. Double Chocolate Chunk CookieCourtesy Choya Johnson
This cookie is dangerously good. Costco somehow made a cookie that feels homemade while still being oversized in true Costco fashion. The outside has a slight crisp, while the inside stays soft and loaded with melted chocolate chunks.
It’s rich, warm and honestly feels like one of those desserts you tell yourself you’ll save half of for later knowing good and well that’s not happening.
Related: Costco Just Brought Back a Fan-Favorite Dessert and Fans Are Racing to the Bakery
5. Cheese PizzaCourtesy Choya Johnson
Costco’s cheesepizza is one of the most dependable food court items the warehouse has. The slices are massive, the cheese pull is elite and the crust has that soft but slightly crispy texture that just works. Costco pizza is greasy in the best way possible, and this one tastes exactly how a food court pizza should taste: simple, cheesy and satisfying every single time.
Related: The 10 Best Keto Snacks at Costco, According to Dietitians
4. Caramel Brownie SundaeCourtesy Choya Johnson
Now this is where the dessert menu finally starts getting serious. The Costco caramel brownie sundae feels excessive in the best way. You’ve got creamy vanilla ice cream, chunks of brownie and caramel layered together into something that honestly feels way more premium than a warehouse food court dessert should. Every bite tastes rich, gooey and over the top without completely falling apart balance-wise.
3. CalzoneCourtesy Choya Johnson
The calzone surprised me the most out of everything on this menu. It’s cheesy, flavorful and packed enough to actually feel worth the price. The crust stays soft while still having a little crisp on the outside, and the filling actually tastes seasoned instead of bland.
This feels like one of those hidden Costco gems people overlook because they automatically go straight for the pizza or hot dog.
Related: I Asked 3 Chefs What They Always Buy at Costco—Their Answers Completely Changed How I Shop
2. All Beef Hot DogCourtesy Choya Johnson
You simply cannot talk about Costco food court history without mentioning the legendary hot dog combo. For the price alone it honestly deserves respect. The hot dog has that perfect snap when you bite into it, the bun stays soft and pairing it with a cold drink makes it one of the best value meals in fast food. It’s not fancy, and it doesn’t need to be. This is pure nostalgia and consistency all wrapped into one perfect combo.
Related: The Genius Costco Hot Dog Hack We Wish We’d Known About Sooner
1. Pepperoni PizzaCourtesy Choya Johnson
At the end of the day, nothing at the Costco food court beats the pepperoni pizza for me. It delivers every single thing you want from a food court meal: a massive portion, bold flavor, cheesy goodness and that greasy satisfaction that somehow makes the entire Costco trip feel complete.
It’s affordable, consistent and honestly part of the Costco experience itself at this point. No matter how many new items come and go from the menu, this Costco pizza is the one item that keeps me coming back every single time.
Up Next:
Related: I Tried 6 Viral Costco Food Court Hacks: 4 Are Genius (And 2 To Skip)
Best-Selling Author’s Classic Novel Ranked Among ‘Most Read Books’ in United States on Goodreads
More than a year after its debut, The Women is still one of the biggest reading phenomena in America.
The bestselling historical novel by Kristin Hannah was recently included on Goodreads' list of the most-read books in the United States this year, further cementing its status as one of the defining book-club and historical fiction successes of the decade.
Originally released in hardcover in 2024, The Women tells the story of Frances "Frankie" McGrath, a young nursing student who joins the Army Nurse Corps during the Vietnam War. What begins as a patriotic decision quickly transforms into a life-altering experience as Frankie confronts the brutal realities of war abroad and the emotional fallout waiting back home.
"The Vietnam War cast a big shadow over my childhood," recalls Hannah. "I remember the turbulence of the era, the unrest. When I was in elementary school, my best friend’s father was MIA; he'd been shot down in 1967. I remember wearing his POW bracelet for decades. As a result, his name was burned into my memory. Because of him, I remember vividly the sense of waiting for the warriors to come home, and I remember how they were treated upon return."
View this post on InstagramThe novel struck a major chord with readers for its emotional storytelling and its focus on women whose contributions during the Vietnam War were often overlooked in mainstream historical narratives.
Hannah, already known for bestselling novels like The Nightingale and The Four Winds, once again blended sweeping historical detail with deeply personal character-driven storytelling, a formula that has helped make her one of the most commercially successful authors working today.
Part of the book's enduring popularity also comes from strong word-of-mouth momentum online, particularly through book communities on Goodreads, TikTok and social media reading groups.
Now, fans have another milestone to look forward to: the paperback edition of The Women is scheduled for release on September 15, 2026, and is already available for preorder.
The upcoming paperback release is expected to introduce the novel to an even broader audience, especially as historical fiction continues dominating bestseller lists and book club discussions.
"I don't intend my characters to be role models," Hannah told TODAY. "I intend them to be full-blooded humans that maybe teach you something and entertain you. The point of being someone to emulate is that you are the kind of person who doesn't give up. No matter what mistakes you make, you do your very best to rectify them and to get back on the right path."
Its place among Goodreads' most-read books of the year proves that The Women has become far more than a temporary bestseller, it's a modern historical fiction phenomenon.
Related: Best-Selling Author’s Classic Book Ranked Among ‘Most Streamed Audiobooks’ of All Time
Isomer's Brightening Anti-Aging Duo Is Perfect for Women Over 50, and Shoppers Confirm It's 'So Good'
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Peptide serums are a must for women over 50. According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dara Spearman, they can help reduce signs of aging by stimulating collagen production, and can “improve the texture, hydration, and resilience” of your skin." That also extends to eye creams. Olga Parno, founder of the skincare brand Masktini, told Parade that eye creams that contain anti-aging ingredients like peptides keep eyes “looking smooth and youthful.” That’s a big reason why the Isomers Skincare Platinum Peptide Radiance Duo is a key skincare buy for women over 50. It’s a peptide-packed combo for the face and eyes, and it’s on sale on ShopHQ for just $80.
Isomers Skincare Platinum Peptide Radiance Duo, $80 (was $252) at ShopHQ 68%It’s marked down a jaw dropping 68% from its original $252 price tag. Plus, you can get it with $5 shipping for a limited time when you use code FREERETURN. This peptide set includes a 30 milliliter Platinum Peptide Eye Tight Concentrate and a 50 milliliter Platinum Peptide Brightening Cream, both formulated to hydrate and help improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.
Use Code FREERETURN on Shop HQ to unlock $5 off shipping for a limited time.The Eye Tight Concentrate targets puffiness, dark circles, and dryness around the eyes using ingredients like caffeine, botanical extracts, and multiple peptides. Meanwhile, the Brightening Cream is formulated with platinum peptides, shea butter extract, and diamond powder to help skin appear firmer, smoother, and more radiant. Together, they help boost skin elasticity, improve loss of volume, and create a more luminous, plump-looking complexion. They also have blue light protection, which helps shield skin from premature aging that can come with prolonged exposure to digital devices.
One shopper who raved about the set wrote, “The LX collection from Isomers is second to none,” she wrote. “I use the eye tight concentrate both day and night, and [it] reduces puffiness.” She added, “The brightening cream is silky in texture and lightweight — so good for a daily cream.” Both skincare products are suitable for dry, normal, combination, and oily skin types, and you can use them in the morning and/or evening.
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The Isomers Skincare Platinum Peptide Radiance Duo is the perfect gift for yourself or for a loved one. Grab this set while it’s just $80!
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IKEA Just Dropped a New Chair That Feels '90s and Futuristic at the Same Time
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Inflatable furniture is back, and I'm jumping for joy. IKEA has a new release delighting nostalgic millennials like me who long for the fun furniture of the '90s and early 2000s. This one, however, has a modern twist that takes it to a new level. This IKEA version is far more refined than the floral plastic inflatable chair I had in my room as a pre-teen.
The brand-new IKEA PS 2026 Chair, with an inflatable seat and back cushion, sits in that exact tension between memory foam and modern design. It is a comfy, bright green armchair with inflatable cushions inside a sturdy chrome metal frame. The seat has two individually inflatable air chambers, one in the middle and one around it, so you can create the exact firmness and seating comfort you want. It even comes with a pump so you can customize the firmness.
IKEA PS 2026 Chair, Knäbäck Bright Green, $199.99 at IKEA Shop It!What makes IKEA especially interesting here is how it draws on older ideas about what the future of furniture might look like. The inflatable form is not new at all. It echoes a design lineage from the 1960s and '70s when designers were imagining homes made of lightweight modular systems rather than heavy permanent objects.
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That is the retro side of what you are seeing. It carries the visual language of space age interiors, plastic optimism and modular living systems that were once imagined as the future but now read as a distinct aesthetic era.
At the same time, IKEA pushes it into the realm of futurism. The chrome frame gives it a clean industrial edge that sits comfortably in modern product design. The idea that you can tune the firmness, wash the cover and treat the chair almost like a system rather than a fixed object fits neatly with how people live now, with more adaptable, less formal interiors.
That is why it lands as both retro and futuristic. It references older visions of tomorrow while still feeling completely plausible in a present-day living space.
Priced at $199.99 and dropping May 14, this is exactly the kind of unexpected design move that makes IKEA feel fun again. The Knäbäck bright green version in particular leans all the way into that playful energy while still looking intentional enough for a living room refresh.
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2009 Horror Comedy With Star-Studded Cast Is Climbing The Charts 17 Years Later
Horror fans are proving they will never forget the 2009 comedy Jennifer’s Body, with a star-studded cast and cult following.
Jennifer’s Body starred Megan Fox, Adam Brody,Amanda Seyfried, Johnny Simmons,Juan Riedinger,Chris Pratt,and J.K. Simmons.
The horror film has been gaining traction again all these years later, largely fueled by nostalgia, thanks to streaming, as Jennifer’s Body recently dropped on Netflix.
According to Tudum,Jennifer’s Body landed in the Top 10 of the most-watched movies in the first week it was released on the streaming service. It ended up at number 6, with over 3 million movies in its first week on Netflix, spanning 23 countries.
She's evil... and not just high school evil.
Jennifer's Body, now playing on Netflix UK/IE. pic.twitter.com/UO54vW90v6
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Jennifer’s Body focuses on popular high school girl Jennifer, who turns into a succubus and begins trying to kill her male classmates. It comes after the indie band Low Shoulder makes a pact with the Devil that involves the soul of a virgin to help further their career.
When Jennifer meets the band after a performance, she leaves with them, much to the dismay of her best friend, Needy (Seyfried). The band then kills Jennifer, but things go awry because she isn’t a virgin, and Jennifer comes back to life with a vengeance.
In 2025, controversy surrounded Jennifer’s Body when Seyfried declared the film was “perfect,” but the marketing team ruined it.
“I can’t critique this movie. To me, it’s perfect. It’s got balls. Diablo Cody was outspoken and beautiful and smart and funny. We were expressing a certain angst in a very specific, comedic way in a very specific genre. The special effects were so incredible, there were stunts, there was everything you could want,” the Mean Girls star shared withGQ.
Seyfried went on to blast the marketing team, saying, “The marketing sucked, it just did. And we all agree." The marketing for Jennifer’s Body focused heavily on Fox’s sex appeal and popularity, clashing with the film's tone and alienating the female audience. Years later, it developed a cult following among women and the LGBTQ community, with many saying the feminist film, addressing toxic friendship, sexuality, and teen girl dynamics, was ahead of its time.
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