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Sylvester Stallone Reveals What Really Started His Decades-Long Feud With Richard Gere
A spilled lunch, a heated confrontation, and a Hollywood feud that lasted for decades. Sylvester Stallone is finally revealing what really happened between him and Richard Gere on the set of The Lords of Flatbush.
In this memoir, The Steps, published Sept. 29 by William Morrow, Stallone has detailed his confrontation with Gere that took place decades ago during the filming of The Lords of Flatbush, the 1974 drama.
The trouble between the actors started while the two were still looking to establish their careers. According to Stallone, the feud started even before the filming, mainly during the audition process. He noted that while he got along pretty well with Robert De Niro, his rapport with Gere was far from comfortable.
“I remember everything went pretty well initially with me and De Niro,” Stallone wrote in his memoir. “We were trying to outtalk each other. I enjoyed improvisation and the process of ad-libbing. Then the improvs with Richard Gere went bad, when Gere grabbed my T-shirt and his fingernails dug into my skin. I told him to back off, but he did it again on the second take. He couldn’t have known, but Gere had begun to stir the emotional cauldron inside me.”
Stallone said he asked director Stephen Verona if he could respond the same way he would have responded in real life. “I turned to Stephen Verona and asked him, ‘Is it okay if I ad-lib here and react the way I would actually react if someone did that to me in real life?’” “‘What would you do?’ ‘Do? I’d knock his teeth out.’ ‘Please don’t.’”
The tension between Stallone and Gere eventually boiled over during a lunch break on the set, when the two were sitting inside a car and, according to Stallone, Gere spilled chicken grease onto his leg despite being warned not to make a mess.
Stallone said director Stephen Verona ultimately chose to keep him and remove Gere from the production, leading to Gere’s role being recast, while Robert De Niro also left the project separately to pursue another film.
Perry King and Henry Winkler went on to join Stallone in the principal cast of The Lords of Flatbush. At the time, none of the actors had yet reached the level of fame they would later achieve, with Stallone still several years away from the breakthrough success of Rocky and Winkler on the verge of becoming a household name as Arthur “Fonzie” Fonzarelli on Happy Days.
Marshalls' Chic Houndstooth Cardigan Looks Like It Was Pulled From Blair Waldorf's Closet
If we’re talking aspirational TV character style, I’m going to need everyone to step aside because my crown goes to Blair Waldorf from Gossip Girl. Sure, she occasionally treats Manhattan like her personal chessboard, but the woman’s wardrobe is a master class in looking like you summer in the Hamptons, even if don’t. Blair understands that getting dressed isn’t just about putting on clothes. It’s about presenting a very specific image to the world, preferably one that suggests you had a trust fund and a standing reservation at a fancy restaurant.
Her signature aesthetic is equal parts Upper East Side prep, old-money polish and unapologetic femininity, with tailored silhouettes, prim little headbands, bow details and enough tweed to make a country club swoon. And then there are the patterns—plaid, tartan and, of course, houndstooth, that wonderfully posh print. Blair makes even the most classic patterns feel fresh, fashionable and just a little intimidating. Which is exactly why a houndstooth cardigan feels like such a Blair Waldorf move. XOXO, indeed.
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Sioni Houndstooth Duster Cardigan, $49.99 at Marshalls Sioni Houndstooth Duster CardiganMarshalls
Shop It!Sioni’s Houndstooth Duster Cardigan at Marshalls has an almost coat-like silhouette. The lightweight knit keeps things soft and comfortable, while the open front gives it that easy, throw-it-on-over-everything appeal. I especially love the little details that make it feel more like a thoughtfully styled outfit than just another layering piece, including two front pockets, belt loops and a detachable tie belt that lets you cinch the waist for a more tailored look.
Related: A 2009 Box Office Hit Just Inspired an Ethereal New Fragrance
At 40 inches long from shoulder to hem, it has plenty of coverage, and the long sleeves add to its versatility. As a housekeeping note (because not everyone hash a Dorota), it does require hand washing, so it isn’t quite a toss-it-in-the-laundry-and-forget-about-it situation. Still, for anyone who loves a little Upper East Side prep in their everyday wardrobe, this cardigan brings plenty of Blair-worthy charm.
How to Style It Like Blair WaldorfTo style this houndstooth cardigan like Blair, lean all the way into her Upper East Side prep aesthetic. Consider a crisp white button-down underneath, a black pleated mini skirt, opaque black tights and Mary Jane flats. The houndstooth is already doing plenty of heavy lifting, so you don’t need to go wild with the rest of the outfit. Just add a black velvet headband, pearl studs and a structured handbag, and suddenly you’re giving Constance Billard headmistress energy (in the best possible way).
For something a little less school-uniform-inspired, pair it with a burgundy skirt, black tights and loafers. Blair was never afraid of a rich jewel tone, and burgundy looks gorgeous with black-and-white houndstooth. Or, for an everyday look, throw it over a fitted black turtleneck with slim black trousers and knee-high boots. Whatever you choose, use the tie belt to cinch the waist and give the cardigan a more tailored silhouette.
Turnstile Just Did Something on 'Saturday Night Live' That Hasn’t Happened in 45 Years
Turnstile just brought hardcore back to Saturday Night Live 45 years after one particularly chaotic performance seemingly scared the show away from the genre.
The Baltimore band made its SNL debut on Saturday, October 3, during an episode hosted by Dakota Johnson, becoming the first hardcore act to take the show’s stage in over four decades.
The Grammy Award-winning band kicked things off with an epic drum solo into the song “BIRDS,” off their 2025 album Never Enough. The band later returned for a medley of “I CARE” and “DULL,” performing against a wall of phones with an elaborate light show surrounding them.
The historic appearance had already become something of a joke before the band even played. In an SNL promo, cast member Ben Marshall noted that it had been 45 years since a hardcore band performed on the show, while Turnstile jokingly promised not to destroy the studio.
That history dates back to 1981, when FEAR appeared on SNL at the invitation of John Belushi, a fan of the band. Their famously unruly set included an audience packed with slam dancers and reportedly resulted in thousands of dollars’ worth of damage to NBC’s Rockefeller Center studio.
READ MORE: Grammy-Winning Indie Rock Band Kicks Off Tour After Ex-Guitarist Indicted for First-Degree Murder
FEAR wasn’t the only act to land in hot water with the late-night show. The Replacements were banned following their famously rowdy 1986 appearance, while Elvis Costello was blacklisted after unexpectedly stopping “Less Than Zero” during his 1977 performance and launching into “Radio Radio” instead.
View this post on InstagramBut fans seem to love this choice.
“First real band they’ve had on in ages. Not that manufactured bubblegum crap,” one person noted in the comments on Instagram.
“Been so worried about the next generation…after watching this…yeah..they’ll be good 👍,” said another.
Even people who weren’t necessarily a fan of the genre appreciated the performance. “Not for me but pretty cool to see music like this on mainstream TV,” one wrote.
“Easily the best part of the episode,” said a fourth, which stands out considering pop superstar Taylor Swift made an appearance.
Johnson used her opening monologue to joke about her “two very public, very lame breakups with two very awesome musicians” before revealing her supposed “literal therapist,” Swift.
“I’m not your therapist, actually,” Swift joked. “You just show up once a week at my house with an empty bottle of wine and ask if I want some.”
The pair recently collaborated, with Johnson starring in one of Swift’s new music videos alongside Colin Farrell. The music video made its debut during the MTV Video Music Awards on September 27.
Related: Madonna Says Sabrina Carpenter’s Team Ghosted Her for ‘5 Days’ in ‘Awkward’ VMAs Speech
‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Star Receives Outpouring of Support After Revealing Wife Died From Massive Hemorrhagic Stroke
Isaiah Washington is receiving an outpouring of love after revealing that his wife of 29 years, Jenisa Washington, died following a massive hemorrhagic stroke last year.
The former Grey’s Anatomy star shared the deeply personal news Saturday, October 3, explaining that Jenisa collapsed suddenly on May 31, 2025, and died nine days later on June 9. Washington, 63, said her death came as “a huge shock” to their family.
What Did Isaiah Washington Reveal About His Wife’s Death?“Yes…the rumors are true. My dear wife of 29 years collapsed suddenly on May 31, 2025 and passed away on June 9, 2025,” Washington wrote on Instagram.
“She succumbed to a massive hemorrhagic stroke and never recovered.”
Washington also used the post to urge followers not to dismiss persistent or unusual headaches. “Listen, y’all…some headaches are not just headaches or migraines, they can be much worse and a warning sign. Get a brain scan if you can and take those headaches seriously.”
How Are Friends and Fans Supporting Isaiah Washington?Washington’s post prompted an immediate wave of support from friends, fellow actors and followers, many of whom offered condolences while also responding to his warning about severe headaches.
Viola Davis was among those who reached out, writing, “So very sorry Isaiah❤️”
Others focused on the private grief Washington had apparently been carrying for more than a year. One person wrote, “Omg and you’ve been doing this grieving quietly all this time. Prayers.”
Another commenter shared, “thank you for sharing. Its always difficult to watch the people you love get off the train. They leave us with beautiful memories for our ride to our train stop.”
Washington’s health warning also struck a nerve with several followers. One person wrote, “My condolences 🙏🏾. I’ve been having frequent migraines lately, but I’ve been saying it’s from stress 😩. Thanks for sharing!”
Another follower shared, “My condolences. And very true. I went to emergency room with the worst headache I ever had and it turned out that I did in fact have a mini stroke!”
Several comments also reflected on Jenisa personally. One person added, “Deepest condolences to you and your family. I last visited with Jenisa in early April of 2024. She was one person I needed to have a long hug with after Janelle’s passing. ❤️”
Another wrote, “@therealisaiahwashington With much appreciation ~ thank you for sharing. We need these wellness reminders. May you continue to be sustained and strengthened, daily, through the memories and love you shared. Sending virtual prayers and good thoughts to you and your family. 🙏🏾💚”
One more fan remembered Jenisa warmly, writing, “Ohhhhh Isaiah – I’m so very sorry! Such a sweet, loving and gifted woman. She was so good to me. My sincerest condolences and prayers for rapid healing for you and your family 💚🙏🏾💚🙏🏾💚🙏🏾”
What Did Isaiah Washington Say About Jenisa’s Legacy?Washington said Jenisa had been gone for months, leaving behind their three children, Isaiah V, Tyme and Iman.
“She has been gone 16 months now, but she left 3 incredibly amazing children behind to continue her legacy,” he wrote. He acknowledged that Jenisa had always valued her privacy, adding, “I don’t know if this is an appropriate post, because Jenisa Washington was extremely private, but I guess I just have to be reprimanded from her on the other side. 🙏🏾”
Isaiah and Jenisa first crossed paths at a dinner party in Los Angeles.
My wife could’ve married someone with creativity, wealth, position & power, yet she married me 19 years ago. LOVE YA! pic.twitter.com/YSwafrDqOM
— The Disruptor💥 (@IWashington) February 13, 2015They married on Valentine’s Day in 1996, according to US Weekly.
Washington played cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Preston Burke on Grey’s Anatomy from 2005 to 2007, appearing for the show’s first three seasons before leaving the series and later returning for a guest appearance in 2014. He also played the fiancé of Sandra Oh’s character, Cristina Yang.
Clarks' Fall-Ready Ankle Boots Are Comfortable Enough to 'Walk Miles' in, Now 58% Off Ahead of Prime Day
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It’s impossible to overstate the value of supportive boots. Throw in a stylish design, and you’ve basically got yourself the perfect shoe. Finding your unicorn pair for the season might feel like a challenge, but the Clarks Breeze Range Ankle Boot could be exactly what you had in mind. Sleek and versatile, these boots are discounted with an incredible deal at Amazon right now.
Ahead of the retailer’s Prime Big Deal Days sale, the Breeze Range is reduced from its usual $85 price to just $36 in select sizes and colors (including black and dark brown). With a discount of up to 58% off, this is currently the lowest price that the boots have been in at least a month. If you’ve been searching for effortless, classic shoes you can wear year after year, these will add instant value to your wardrobe without breaking your budget.
Clarks Breeze Range Ankle Boots, from $36 (was $85) at Amazon Shop at AmazonFrom toe to heel, these booties were designed with comfort in mind. The brand’s signature contoured insole provides robust support underfoot, with perforated memory foam footbeds that promote breathability. Another highlight is Clarks’ Cushion Plus system, which absorbs shock and adds a spring to every step.
The design itself is timeless. Slight ruching on the polyester upper lends it just enough detail to stand out in a sea of black boots. The effect is distinctive yet subtle, lending them a stylized look that’s effortlessly pulled together. Whether you wear them with jeans and a sweater or a dress and tights, you can rely on them to bring just the right blend of fashion and comfort.
Getting in and out of this pair is, well, a “breeze” thanks to the side zipper. The boot’s low-profile silhouette adds to its overall simplicity and enduring appeal. They’re reflective of the brand’s careful attention to detail and durability, both of which make Clarks shoes so widely loved.
Related: Amazon’s Toasty $20 Corduroy Shacket Is So ‘Comfortable’ and ‘Perfect’ for Fall Layering
“So comfortable, and you can walk miles in them,” one reviewer wrote. Another person agreed, praising the “excellent quality” and “attractive” aesthetic while noting that they’re like “walking on a cloud.” Several shoppers also pointed out that they’re refined enough even to wear to the office with dress pants.
Shop More Deals- Dokotoo Denim Shacket, $40 (was $60) at Amazon
- Wiholll Ruffle-Sleeve Pajama Set, $20 (was $40) at Amazon
- HomeTop Fleece Memory Foam Slippers, $10 (was $22) at Amazon
If you’re looking for footwear that’ll keep you warm for years to come, a pair of Clarks Breeze Range Ankle Boots might be what your closet’s missing. Snag a pair for as low as $36 while they’re on sale at Amazon!
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Fans Say NY Giants Legend Lawrence Taylor is Still The Greatest of All Time After Humbling Reunion
Lawrence Taylor had a humble moment during a recent reunion with his former New York Giants teammates, and fans weren’t about to let the NFL legend forget who he is. The 67-year-old Hall of Famer shared a video reflecting on the team’s championship years, joking about wearing a name tag during the gathering. But beneath the humor was a touching reminder of the bond he shares with the team and the legacy they built together. Fans quickly filled social media with tributes, making it clear that the man known as “LT” is still the GOAT.
Known to fans and NFL teammates as “LT,” the former New York Giants linebacker didn’t just play football; he revolutionized the position with his speed, strength and relentless pass-rushing ability. During his 13 seasons with the Giants, from 1981 to 1993, he became a dominant force, won two Super Bowl championships and became a fan favorite. No. 56 jerseys filled the stadium, and fans delighted in Taylor’s ability to terrify opposing offenses.
Lawrence Taylor Reunites With His Super Bowl-Winning Giants Teammates @lawrencetaylorfanpage86 Superbowl Champions #lawrencetaylor #nygiants #superbowlchampions #lt
♬ original sound – LawrencetaylorofficialfanpageA recent reunion of Taylor’s Super Bowl-winning defensive squad left the NFL great feeling humbled, with a touch of his signature sense of humor. In a video shared on social media, LT reflected on his 13 seasons with the Giants, his two Super Bowl championships and the fact that he still had to wear a name tag with his name printed on it. “Once a Giant, always a Giant,” he wrote. Judging by the fan reaction to the reunion, Lawrence Taylor’s place as a Giants legend is still intact.
“The OG wrecking crew,” one fan shared. Another added, “LT still causing trouble.”
“Scariest defense ever,” another commented.
“Love the great LT,” one more fan gushed.
Fans Remind Lawrence Taylor He’s Still the GOAT @justinpaden57Lawrence Taylor showed up to a team meeting in HANDCUFFS?! 😭💀 Carl Banks explains the wild story. #nfl #lawrencetaylor #footballtiktok #fyp #foryoupage Via: @bigeastrewind
♬ original sound – ItzjustjpTo call Lawrence Taylor a Giants legend would be an understatement. A 10-time Pro Bowl selection, an eight-time AP All-Pro and a three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Taylor was more than the centerpiece of the Giants’ stellar defense. He embodied a pre-social-media era of celebrity, when athletes’ images and public personas weren’t carefully curated. That sense of authenticity helped fans connect with players and cemented Taylor’s legendary status long after his retirement.
Taylor embodied the late ’80s with his well-documented off-field antics and his ability to perform at a high level week after week. Players such as Deion Sanders and Michael Strahan have praised him as one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history, while fans continue to call him the GOAT. He faced legal troubles and personal challenges while building a football legacy that is still revered today.
Taylor may have had to wear a name tag during his visit with the Giants, but his place in NFL history is secure. The reunion offered a glimpse of the camaraderie that endures decades after a championship season, while the fan response showed that the impact of those Giants teams—and the player who helped define them—hasn’t faded.
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Serve Up Comforting Fall Meals on JCPenney's Stunning New Stoneware Platter
One of my favorite things about fall is how easy it is to make a home feel cozy, and the dinner table is no exception. You don’t need to buy an entirely new set of dishes or spend a small fortune on seasonal decorations to create a table that feels warm and inviting.
Some of the prettiest tablescapes are the ones that mix things you already own with a few thoughtfully chosen pieces. That’s why I love everyday white plates—they can mix and match with anything. Add in some cloth napkins (inexpensive ones will do!) and a handful of little pumpkins or colorful leaves gathered from the yard. Finally, natural textures like wood, linen and stoneware provide the makings of a table that feels like a big autumn hug.
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Jenny Martinez Oval Stoneware Serving Platter, $17.99 (reg. $40) at JCPenney Jenny Martinez Oval Stoneware Serving PlatterJCPenney
Shop It!I’m also a big fan of bringing in earthy colors, like rust, olive green and creamy beige, that capture the season without veering into Halloween territory. A large dish, like JCPenney’s Jenny Martinez Oval Stoneware Serving Platter, can pull everything together, too, giving you a place to show off a roast, root veggies, fresh bread or your favorite fall dessert.
The oval shape is framed by a rust-colored botanical border, with a leafy, nature-inspired pattern that feels right at home alongside the warm tones and natural textures you tend to gravitate toward this time of year. Made from stoneware, it has that substantial, classic feel that works just as well for a casual Sunday dinner as it does when you’re having friends over.
At 16 inches wide and 12 inches deep, there’s plenty of room for either a main dish or an assortment of appetizers. And since it’s dishwasher-safe, cleanup won’t leave you wishing you’d ordered takeout instead. Just keep in mind that it isn’t microwave-safe, so you’ll want to transfer food to another dish if it needs reheating. It’s a nice way to bring a little seasonal warmth to your table without committing to an entire collection of fall-themed dinnerware.
How to Get It On SaleJCPenney runs some pretty stellar sales, and right now you can get the Jenny Martinez Oval Stoneware Serving Platter for more than 50 percent off. An ongoing sale already has it marked down from $40 to $19.99, but from there you can get an even bigger markdown. Apply the promo code GOLDEN at checkout and that will bring the price down to $17.99—a total score for a pretty platter.
Related: Halloween Nee-Dohs Are Heading to Aldi—but There’s a Catch
How Do I Get Rid of Rodents in My Garage Before They Chew Car Wiring?
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Few garage discoveries are more irritating than mouse droppings beside your car. Then you lift the hood and see shredded nesting material or damaged wiring. Suddenly, the question isn’t just “How do I get rid of rodents?” It’s how to keep them from turning your vehicle into a nesting site.
Rodents can nest in parked vehicles and damage electrical wiring, hoses and other components. This damage can quickly lead to thousands of dollars in unexpected mechanical repairs and short circuits. In severe cases, compromised wiring can even create a potential fire hazard under the hood.
If you’re already seeing signs around your garage, request a free Orkin quote to have the property assessed for rodent activity and potential entry points before it’s too late for your car.
The most effective strategy is to control rodent activity around the garage and prevent access to the building. Seal gaps, remove food and nesting materials, keep the garage orderly and use traps where activity is documented. Inspect the vehicle regularly, especially if it sits unused.
Start With the GarageA mouse under the hood can be a symptom of a larger access problem. CDC guidance recommends sealing building gaps and removing food, water and shelter that support rodents. Mice can squeeze through openings about 1/4 inch wide, the width of a pencil.
Check:
- Garage-door gaps and damaged weather stripping
- Openings around pipes, cables and utilities
- Foundation cracks and exterior vents
- Cardboard, paper and fabric that can become nesting material
- Pet food, birdseed and accessible garbage
A garage doesn’t need to look dirty for rodents to move in. A small opening and sheltered space can be enough.
Can rodents really damage car wiring?Yes. Rodents have continuously growing incisors and gnaw as part of normal behavior. The National Park Service specifically documents damage to electrical lines and equipment and warns that rodents can damage wiring and hoses in parked vehicles.
Look for These SignsBefore driving a vehicle that’s been exposed to rodents, check for:
- Nesting material: shredded paper, leaves or other debris
- Droppings: particularly around the engine compartment
- Gnaw marks: damaged wire coverings, hoses or other components
- Unusual odors: a musky smell can indicate activity
- Electrical problems: warning lights, starting problems or malfunctioning systems
Some automakers use plant-derived materials in automotive components, but there’s no proven connection that soy-based wiring itself attracts rodents. The more useful question is whether rodents can access the vehicle.
Related: How To Get Rid of Tiny Ants on Kitchen Counters and Keep Them From Coming Back
Don’t start the engine until you’ve checked for nesting material or contamination. The CDC recommends opening the hood, doors and trunk of a potentially exposed vehicle and allowing it to air out for 20 minutes before inspection. It also advises disconnecting battery cables before inspecting the engine compartment.
If you find droppings, urine or nesting material, don’t sweep or vacuum it dry. Wear gloves, thoroughly wet contaminated material with disinfectant, allow it to sit for five minutes or as directed on the label and then remove it with paper towels.
If wiring, hoses or other components appear damaged, have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before driving it.
How do I get rid of rodents in a garage?Use exclusion and trapping together. Seal openings rodents use, remove accessible food and nesting materials and place appropriate traps along established travel routes. The CDC recommends checking traps daily and continuing until there are no captures or new signs for at least a week.
Approach
Primary purpose
Key consideration
Seal gaps
Prevents new rodents from entering
Check doors, utilities and foundations
Snap traps
Removes rodents already inside
Place where activity is documented
Garage cleanup
Removes food and nesting opportunities
Reduce cardboard and clutter
Vehicle inspections
Finds nests before damage worsens
Check wiring and hidden areas
Professional inspection
Identifies activity and access points
Useful when signs persist
Keep traps away from children and pets and use them according to their instructions.
If you’ve already found nesting material or chewed wiring, don’t wait for another sign before addressing the garage. Orkin can inspect for rodent activity and help identify potential access points.
How can I protect my car from rodents long-term?Keeping rodents away from the vehicle starts with making the garage less accessible and less attractive.
Make the Garage Harder To Colonize- Store pet food and birdseed in sealed containers.
- Clean up spilled food promptly.
- Reduce piles of cardboard, fabric and paper.
- Keep garbage containers closed.
- Repair gaps around the garage door and utility penetrations.
- Check periodically for fresh droppings and gnaw marks.
Orkin’s rodent-control guidance similarly emphasizes identifying entry points and addressing conditions that allow rodents to remain on the property.
When should I call a professional for garage rodents?Professional help makes sense when fresh droppings continue after trapping, nests repeatedly appear in the vehicle, the entry point remains unclear or rodents may have spread into inaccessible areas.
The goal isn’t simply to catch the mouse you saw. It’s to determine whether other rodents are using the garage and how they’re getting inside. If the problem keeps returning, a professional inspection can help identify what’s allowing rodents back.
If you’ve found droppings, nesting material or chewed wiring, schedule an Orkin inspection and get a free quote. An inspection can pinpoint the source of the activity and determine what treatment the property needs.
New Dad Kevin McGarry Credits Hallmark with Changing His Life
In 2019, when actor Kevin McGarry was cast as Mountie Nathan Grant on Hallmark Channel‘s beloved series When Calls The Heart (WCTH), he had no idea just how much the show would impact his life, with a cast and crew that have come to feel like family.
But lately, when McGarry leaves the Vancouver set after a day of filming season 14, he marvels at how he’s returning home to an extension of that family: to wife and Landman actress Kayla Wallace, whom he met on the series, and now their baby boy, born this spring.
McGarry, 41, shared that reflection with the crowd gathered for the 10th annual Hearties Family Reunion on Saturday, October 3, as seen in the video from Heart to Hearties, the official podcast for superfans of the show.
During a cast panel at the reunion event, McGarry was asked about how WCTH has changed his life, and he said, “I think, to be serious about this question and without getting into my personal life too much, my life has changed quite a bit.”
“I just had a baby with my wife,” McGarry continued, drawing cheers from the crowd, “and at home, I think holding him and … being with Kayla, (I realize) my life changed so much when I joined this show.”
“Not only do I get to go to work with people that I consider close friends up here, and laugh and get told to stand by Jack,” he joked, looking over at co-stars Jack Wagner and Erin Krakow as he quipped, “Never (stand) in his light, and Erin (Krakow), too, for that matter.”
“But I get to go home to these gifts that were given to me through joining this show, ” he said of Wallace and their baby. “Every day, I am so grateful for joining the show, meeting all of you, getting to come to work, and getting to live the life that has been given to me through the show. Yeah, every day.”
McGarry and Wallace, 32, met when they both joined WCTH for the show’s sixth season and beyond. He took on the role of Grant, while she played feisty Fiona Miller until 2024, (when she landed a plum role as hard-nosed attorney Rebecca Falcone on Landman).
The duo first became friends while filming in the summer of 2018, confirmed in November 2020 that they were dating, and shared their engagement in December 2022. Nearly two years later, in September 2024, McGarry confirmed at another fan event that they’d gotten married.
The next year, in November 2025, McGarry and Wallace announced they were expecting their first child. The following May, they announced his birth on Mother’s Day but have kept the baby’s name under wraps.
Season 14 of When Calls The Heart is expected to return in January 2027. All past seasons are available to stream via Hallmark+. But first, McGarry will co-star with Meghan Ory in The Spirit of Halloween, premiering on Saturday, October 10.
Psychologists Warn Against ‘Revenge Bedtime Procrastination’—Why Staying Up Late Is Actually a Sign You're Overwhelmed
It’s 11:30 p.m. You know you need to wake up early for work, but instead of turning off the light, you find yourself endlessly scrolling through social media, watching another episode of a TV show or playing games on your phone. You’re exhausted, yet you resist going to sleep. If this late-night cycle sounds familiar, you aren’t just lacking self-discipline—you might be participating in a psychological pattern known as “revenge bedtime procrastination.”
Psychologists and sleep experts emphasize that delaying sleep isn’t merely a poor habit; it is often a silent cry for help from a brain overwhelmed by daily demands. When your calendar is packed from morning until evening with work obligations, family responsibilities and endless micro-decisions, the hours right before bed can feel like the only uninterrupted personal time you have. Sacrificing sleep becomes a way to claim control and freedom over a schedule that otherwise feels completely out of your hands.
Understanding why revenge bedtime procrastination happens is the first step toward breaking the cycle. Recognizing that staying up late is a symptom of stress rather than a personal failing allows you to address the root emotional causes, restore control over your daytime routine and build a healthy relationship with rest.
Related: Why Weekends Don’t Feel Like Weekends Anymore, According to a Psychologist
The Psychology Behind Late-Night ScrollingThe term “revenge bedtime procrastination” describes the decision to sacrifice sleep for leisure time in response to a day devoid of personal space or control, as detailed in Parade’s previous analysis on bedtime procrastination. When daytime hours are dominated by stress or rigid routines, your brain seeks compensation late at night. Delaying sleep becomes a way to regain autonomy, even if it leads to fatigue the next day.
“[It] is the habit of delaying going to sleep as a way to maximize free time and maintain a sense of control,” Dr. Kamran Eshtehardi, PhD, a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice in California, told Parade of revenge bedtime procrastination in a past article about healthy emotional habits.
This behavior creates a cycle that affects both mental and physical health. Sleep deprivation impairs concentration, disrupts emotional regulation and increases stress levels, which makes managing daily demands even harder. Over time, late-night scrolling can reinforce feeling exhausted and overwhelmed.
As reported in our previous explainer article listed above, sacrificing sleep often stems from a lack of boundary-setting during waking hours. When daily life feels demanding, the quiet hours of the night can feel like the only opportunity to relax, making it easy to put off rest despite knowing the consequences.
How To Break the Cycle and Protect Your RestOvercoming bedtime procrastination requires addressing daytime stress and establishing consistent evening habits. Small changes to your daily schedule and night routine can help reduce the urge to trade sleep for personal time.
In Parade’s guide on psychologist-recommended emotional habits, Dr. Eshtehardi highlighted the importance of protecting sleep routines, pointing out that “sleep has a major impact on our mental and emotional well-being.”
He warned directly against engaging in this behavior and, to help break the habit, he suggested picking up a book before bed instead of staring at screens.
Related: These 7 ‘Lazy’ Habits Actually Signal High Emotional Intelligence, Psychologist Says
Additionally, Dr. Ayli Carrero Pinedo, PhD, a licensed psychologist and the founder of California-based In Alignment Wellness Services, emphasized the value of keeping the bed strictly associated with rest.
“Staying in bed when you are not asleep actually promotes insomnia because your brain starts to associate being in the sleeping area with being awake,” she stated.
Because of this, she recommended getting out of bed if you haven’t fallen asleep within 20 minutes and returning only when feeling drowsy.
To reclaim your evenings, consider these practical strategies:
- Schedule daily downtime: Set aside intentional breaks during the daytime so your evening doesn’t carry the weight of all your personal time.
- Set a digital curfew: Turn off phones, tablets and screens at least 30 to 60 minutes before bed to allow your nervous system to wind down.
- Build a soothing bedtime routine: Replace late-night scrolling with restful activities like reading, light stretching or journaling.
Adapted from Parade’s “7 Signs You’ve Fallen Victim to ‘Bedtime Procrastination’—and What to Do About It” by Emily Shiffer and “Psychologists Rank the 10 Most Emotionally Healthy Daily Habits” by Sophie Hirsh
Up Next:
Sources:- Dr. Kamran Eshtehardi, PhD, is a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice in California.
- Dr. Ayli Carrero Pinedo, PhD, is a licensed psychologist and the founder of California-based In Alignment Wellness Services.
In 1977, Richard Thomas Left ‘The Waltons’; Producers Replaced John-Boy and the Cast Thought They’d ‘Lost Their Minds’
In the 1970s, The Waltons was one of the biggest shows on TV. Airing for nine seasons from 1972 to 1981, the CBS drama series was based on Earl Hamner Jr.’s book, Spencer’s Mountain, and boasted a supersized cast, fronted by Richard Thomas, who played eldest son John-Boy Walton.
When Thomas decided to leave the show at the end of Season 5, it could have been the end of the beloved series. Instead, producers decided to recast the iconic character and keep the show going.
Still at the peak of his popularity, Thomas appeared as a guest star in three Waltons episodes in Season 6 before leaving the original Waltons series for good. He was replaced by Robert Wightman in Season 8 until the series ended.
The change in John-Boy’s appearance came after he suffered a coma after a plane accident during World War II.
Fans couldn’t believe the recasting, and neither could some of the cast members, because the original John-Boy was irreplaceable.
“When they recast Richard Thomas, we were like, ‘They’ve lost their minds!’’ said Kami Cotler (Elizabeth Walton on the series) in an interview with Cinephiled. “I felt terrible for Bob, what a terrible position he was in. I remember we took him out to lunch and tried to be really nice, we all felt sorry for him.”
Michael Learned, who played matriarch Olivia Walton on the series, also felt it was strange to welcome Wightman to the show with its already close-knit cast.
“I felt sorry for him,” she told Smashing Interviews. “How do you fill those shoes? I mean, John-Boy. And here’s the new John-Boy. We all hated it. Taking the bandages off, and here’s a new face on John-Boy and a new voice. I hated it. We all did. So we tried very hard not to take it out on this poor kid. It wasn’t his fault. He’s just an actor who was given a job. We didn’t take it out on him. We were very kind to him. He was a sweet guy.”
Thomas has spoken often about his decision to walk away from his breakout role at age 26.
”I did feel at that point in time that John-Boy had grown to a certain plan, age-wise,” the actor said in an interview on his former co-star Judy Norton’s YouTube channel. “And going to college, and all that, how much more could he have been that character? How much more was there for me to bring?”
“I felt good about [Robert Wightman] doing the part, but it is very peculiar when someone takes over your role,” Thomas admitted, adding that he knew Wightman would have a hard time finding acceptance with Waltons fans.
“I felt for Robert,” Thomas said. “I thought, it’s not going to be easy for him.”
Related: ‘70s TV Legend Reveals the One Famous Line He Still Hears From Fans 50 Years Later
Michael Bublé Reveals How Michael J. Fox Changed His Life After Major Honor
Michael Bublé is celebrating fellow Canadian Michael J. Fox, revealing just how much the actor influenced him long before they ever met in the process.
Bublé shared a photo of himself alongside the Back to the Future star on Instagram Saturday, October 4, following Fox’s promotion to Companion of the Order of Canada, one of the country’s highest civilian honors. Both dressed in black, the two smiled for the camera as Fox stood beside the singer.
“Michael J Fox is one of the architects of my life,” Bublé began his caption. “Well before I ever imagined that I would meet him, he helped build my imagination.”
View this post on InstagramThe 51-year-old singer explained that watching Fox helped make movies feel “like magic” and showed him that “maybe a kid from Burnaby, Canada could dream as big as he wanted to.”
Bublé’s admiration for Fox has only grown since getting to know him. “Somehow, all these years later, I’m in even more awe of him,” he continued, praising Fox’s “strength,” “humor,” “grace” and “decency.”
“He makes me feel good about what it means to be a human being,” Bublé concluded. “And really, isn’t that the whole damn point?”
Fans loved the tribute, too.
READ MORE: Mike Myers Shares Bold Message With Shirt In New Photo and the Internet Has Thoughts
“The fact that Michael J. Fox, an actor, inspired so many musicians to pick up a guitar has always blown my mind,” one person shared.
“Oh this is amazing! 2 of my favorite Michael’s together! Canada’s finest!! ❤️❤️” a second wrote.
A third commented, “Thank you for you both!!! What a superpower Michael J Fox has, humans and LOVE.”
The Back to the Future account and Fox’s costar Christopher Lloyd also chimed in, leaving heart emojis.
The tribute came after Fox, 65, received a standing ovation while being promoted to Companion of the Order of Canada during an October 2 ceremony at Rideau Hall.
The honor recognized Fox’s decades of Parkinson’s advocacy. Rideau Hall specifically highlighted his “powerful global advocacy and unflinching honesty about Parkinson’s.”
Fox publicly revealed his Parkinson’s diagnosis in 1998 and founded the Michael J. Fox Foundation in 2000, which has since become a major force in funding Parkinson’s research.
Speaking after the ceremony, Fox reflected on what receiving the honor meant to him as a Canadian.
“It’s so many things. But mostly it’s just growing up in Canada, loving this country, loving what it stands for and how it’s progressed and corrected course when it needed to, and stayed the course when it needed to,” he told The Canadian Press.
Walmart Just Brought Back a Viral Little Debbie Christmas Favorite—and It’s Only $30
Halloween hasn’t even arrived yet, but Christmas is already starting to creep in. Decorations, Advent calendars and all kinds of holiday finds are landing on shelves earlier and earlier—and one fan favorite is already back at Walmart.
Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes have been a holiday staple for more than four decades, and in recent years, the beloved snack has inspired everything from tote bags to oversized Christmas decorations. Now, one of the most viral pieces of Little Debbie holiday merch has officially returned.
The Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes-inspired yard inflatable is once again popping up at Walmart stores. Standing 4.5 feet tall and priced at just under $30, the illuminated decoration is designed to look like the brand’s iconic vanilla Christmas Tree Cake, complete with white frosting, red icing and green sprinkles.
@theamazinglouie3New at Walmart! #walmart #holidays #littledebbiechristmastreecakes #christmastree #christmas
♬ Christmas – neozillaAnd if previous years are any indication, fans may not want to wait until December to grab one.
The inflatable has become something of a social media star, with fans even nicknaming the oversized decoration “Giant Deborah.” Last year, the 4.5-foot version was exclusive to Walmart, and shoppers scrambled to find it.
@hoooliarnA 7ft BIG Debra! 🤣🎄❤️✨ @Little debbie #littledebbiechristmastreecakes #7ft #inflatable #alliwantforchristmasisyou #mariahcarey #food #fyp #christmastree #christmas
♬ original sound – Julia CaseWalmart also carried even bigger 7-foot versions inspired by both the vanilla and chocolate Christmas Tree Cakes last year. Those haven’t been spotted in stores this season, however, and both are currently listed as out of stock on Walmart’s website.
The smaller inflatable is already making the rounds on social media again, suggesting Christmas Tree Cake mania isn’t slowing down anytime soon.
For anyone who doesn’t want to commit to turning the front yard into a giant Little Debbie display, there’s also a more subtle option: Walmart has brought back a Christmas Tree Cakes-inspired ornament for less than $5.
But with Halloween still weeks away and holiday shoppers already hunting for these decorations, waiting until Christmas to buy one might be risky.
Walmart's 'Plush' $36 7-Piece Bed-in-a-Bag Offers a 'Luxurious' Hotel-Quality Upgrade Right at Home
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As the seasons change and the temperatures finally start to dip, there is no better time to give your bedroom a cozy refresh. Achieving a Pinterest-perfect, cloud-like bed often comes with a hefty price tag, so it’s smart to shop sales when they happen. Walmart’s Fall Deals Event is coming up, running Oct. 5 through 11. Ahead of the mega sale, the retailer is offering deep discounts on tons of beautiful bedding sets. Case in point, the Catami Prewashed 7-Piece Queen Bed-in-a-Bag, which normally retails for $72, is on sale for just $36 right now, and shoppers are already rushing to snag this complete bedding overhaul.
The comforter set comes in seven colors, and two options are already sold out in the queen size. It’s also offered in twin-XL, full, and king sizes, though color availability and sale pricing vary. In the queen size, you can choose from sage green, burnt orange, dark purple, olive green, and dark green. This set offers an entire room transformation in a single package, and it’s a steal for up to 50% off right now.
Catami Prewashed 7-Piece Queen Bed-in-a-Bag, From $36 (was $72) at Walmart Shop at WalmartThis comprehensive seven-piece bundle takes all the guesswork out of styling. It includes everything you need for a gorgeously cohesive setup: a plush queen-sized comforter, a fitted sheet with deep pockets, a flat sheet, two standard pillowcases, and two matching pillow shams. The easy-to-care-for fabric is Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified, meaning it’s free from harmful substances and gentle on the skin.
The lofty polyester-filled comforter in a variety of earthy, on-trend hues gives your bed an instant cozy aesthetic. Described by Walmart shoppers as “luxurious” and “exquisite,” the “plush” prewashed fabric does a lot of heavy lifting to make this set look more expensive than it costs. One reviewer who called the set “stunning” said, “It looks amazing on the bed and is so very comfortable to sleep on.”
Shop More Bedding Deals- Sprinday 7-Piece Queen Comforter Set, $39 (was $83) at Walmart
- Amberspace Prewashed 3-Piece Queen Comforter Set, $30 (was $60) at Walmart
- Sasttie 7-Piece Queen Comforter Set, $32 (was $66) at Walmart
Related: Replace Your Summer Bedding With Walmart’s ‘Very Cozy’ Reversible Tulip Comforter Set
With this Walmart flash deal, you can give any bedroom hotel-quality comfort without breaking the bank. Add the Catami Prewashed 7-Piece Bed-in-a-Bag to your cart now while it’s still on sale for just $36!
Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.
Fox News Personality Makes Surprising Claim About ‘Sesame Street’: ‘They Get Super Political’
A conversation about Ms. Rachel and children’s television took an unexpected turn when a Fox News personality declared that even Sesame Street has become political.
The discussion unfolded on Fox News’ new podcast the Girls as the panel debated whether children’s entertainer Ms. Rachel, whose real name is Rachel Accurso, should keep her outspoken political views separate from the content she creates for young children.
Melissa DeRosa argued that children’s entertainers can have an enormous influence on their young viewers and questioned whether someone who becomes a trusted figure during a child’s formative years should also publicly advocate for political causes.
“I sort of feel like if you’re going to be somebody who little kids look up to, we should separate those things,” DeRosa said.
She went on to argue that children could continue trusting a familiar entertainer’s views as they get older because their parents had put that person in front of them at such a young age.
But not everyone on the panel agreed.
Kat Timpf pushed back on the idea that Ms. Rachel’s political activism necessarily makes her programming harmful for children.
“I don’t think it’s that deep,” she said. “She just sings songs.”
The discussion then turned to other children’s programming, including Elmo, Bluey and Sesame Street.
“Sesame Street is political, too,” said former Real World star Rachel Campos-Duffy. “They get super political.”
The comments came during a much broader debate about how much parents should worry about the personal beliefs of the people their children watch on television and online.
Former ESPN reporter Samantha Ponder argued that parents have the responsibility to help children understand what they’re seeing and to expose them to people with different beliefs and backgrounds.
“I think it’s more about how your parents help you frame what you’re seeing and your world view as you grow up,” she said, adding that children can encounter people with differing political views without automatically adopting those beliefs.
The panel also disagreed over Ms. Rachel herself.
Harris Faulkner pointed to Accurso’s education, which includes a master’s degree in music education from New York University and a second master’s degree in early childhood education from the American College of Education, but said that as a parent, she was troubled by how vocal the children’s entertainer has been about her political views.
“When she says, ‘Yes, I am political,’ and when she talks, maybe not about it so much on her show, but adjacent to that, I’m looking at the total spectrum of what my child is going to be imbibing by watching her unattended,” said Faulkner, adding, “I don’t care if she has her politics and she feels this way, but why do I need to know it? And if there is any encroachment in that in the process of her show, that bothers me.”
Timpf argued that Ms. Rachel’s activism is largely separate from her children’s programming and said she didn’t believe the entertainer was “dangerous or bad” for young viewers.
The women ultimately remained divided over how much political advocacy by children’s entertainers should matter to parents.
But their Sesame Street exchange offered perhaps the most unexpected moment of the conversation, broadening the debate beyond Ms. Rachel to one of the most famous children’s programs in television history.
‘I’m a Cardiologist—Here’s Exactly How I Prepare Eggs for Heart Health'
You may have heard the line, “You are what you eat.” But an interventional cardiologist says it’s more than just what you eat when it comes to heart health. It’s also how you prepare it. Dr. Craig Basman, MD, a cardiologist at Hackensack University Medical Center, treats people with artery blockages every day and says diet is a big part of the equation. He notes that prep matters, though, because it can change how a “healthy” food affects your cardiovascular system.
“If you take a nutrient-dense whole food and fry it in saturated animal fats or heat oils past their smoke point, you introduce inflammatory compounds and excess fats that drive plaque buildup, known as atherosclerosis, in your arteries,” Dr. Basman tells Parade. “Heart-healthy prep ensures you get the nutritional benefits without the vascular baggage.”
Speaking of heart-healthy foods, the advice on eggs seems to change by the minute. Are eggs healthy for your heart?
“Yes, eggs can absolutely be part of a heart-healthy diet,” Dr. Basman says. “I know consumers experience whiplash on this topic because eggs were demonized for decades due to the dietary cholesterol in their yolks.”
Dr. Basman says strong modern data show that dietary cholesterol affects blood cholesterol levels far less than saturated and trans fats for the average person. This research includes a 2020 American Heart Association Science Advisory. He adds that Harvard researchers found that eating up to one whole egg per day doesn’t raise heart disease risk for generally healthy adults. That said, he clarifies that people with advanced coronary artery disease, severe high cholesterol, or Type 2 diabetes may be more sensitive to eggs.
“In those instances, I advise my patients to limit yolks to a few times a week or to switch to egg whites, which provide high-quality protein with zero cholesterol,” Dr. Basman shares.
Regardless, he suggests people prepare their eggs this way to support heart health. He explains why he recommends this method and practices what he preaches.
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‘I’m an Interventional Cardiologist—Here’s Exactly How I Prepare Eggs for Heart Health’According to Dr. Basman, the most heart-healthy way to prepare eggs is to poach or boil them.
“When you cook eggs entirely in water, you completely avoid adding extra, unnecessary saturated fats or oils that can raise your LDL—’bad’—cholesterol,” he explains.
Dr. Basman adds that this gentle, temperature-controlled way to prepare eggs keeps inflammation-causing compounds out of your bloodstream because it avoids high heat, which can degrade the quality of cooking fats. Plus, he says boiling or poaching “does an excellent job of preserving the egg’s natural nutrients, like essential B vitamins and antioxidants.”
Recent research points out that getting enough B vitamins through food is essential for cardiovascular health. Of course, you’re not going to eat something you don’t like. Dr. Basman happens to love how poached eggs taste.
“Personally, I am a huge fan of poached eggs because I love their rich, creamy texture,” he says. “A soft, runny yolk acts like a decadent sauce over a slice of whole-grain sourdough toast, completely eliminating the need for butter while still tasting fantastic.”
Related: ‘I’m a Cardiologist—This Is the Grocery Store Aisle I Spend the Least Amount of Time In’
Other Heart-Healthy Ways To Prepare EggsIf poaching or boiling your eggs isn’t your jam, Dr. Basman says there are other heart-healthy ways to prepare them, notably:
- Pan-fried or scrambled: This method takes a little care, though. “You can safely scramble or fry eggs if you use a light touch with a heart-healthy, heat-stable oil, like extra-virgin olive oil or avocado oil,” Dr. Basman says.
- Cook on low heat: Dr. Basman emphasizes that cooking eggs on low heat is vital to prevent fats from oxidizing. “Oxidation happens when an oil is heated past its safe limit, causing its chemical structure to break down and release harmful free radicals,” he explains. “These unstable molecules cause oxidative stress and inflammation in your blood vessels, which directly accelerates arterial plaque buildup.”
Also, adding certain foods can layer on the heart-friendly nutrients. For instance, Dr. Basman likes to add spinach and cherry tomatoes when he gently scrambles his eggs.
“Taste and texture-wise, the burst of acidity from the tomatoes perfectly balances the earthy, soft texture of the spinach,” he tells Parade. “From a cardiovascular standpoint, these vegetables add excellent fiber, potassium and antioxidants that help regulate blood pressure and reduce arterial inflammation without adding a single gram of saturated fat.”
Related: This Popular ‘Healthy’ Snack Spikes Your Blood Pressure More Than You Think, Cardiologists Warn
Egg-Preparation Methods To Avoid for Heart HealthSorry, but Dr. Basman notes that frying eggs in butter or bacon is “highly detrimental to your heart” (even if you love the taste).
“The cholesterol in the egg itself isn’t the primary issue—the massive dose of saturated fat from the animal grease is,” he explains. “Saturated fat directly spikes your LDL cholesterol, which accelerates the buildup of plaque that leads to narrowed arteries, heart attacks and strokes.”
Speaking of saturated fats, Dr. Basman says a few popular egg add-ins are full of them (and other things that aren’t heart-friendly), including:
- Processed meats, like bacon and sausage: In addition to saturated fat, Dr. Basman says these meats are loaded with sodium and chemical preservatives that can raise blood pressure and damage your arteries.
- Heavy cheese: “Burying your eggs in excessive amounts of cheese just adds empty calories and unnecessary saturated fat, effectively undoing the lean, healthy benefits of the egg itself,” Dr. Basman warns.
Instead, he suggests reaching for nutrient-rich foods, like spinach, and boiling your eggs—your heart and taste buds will probably agree on this one.
Up Next:
Related: This Condiment Could Be Silently Clogging Your Arteries, Cardiologists Warn
Sources:- Dr. Craig Basman, MD, a cardiologist at Hackensack University Medical Center
- Dietary Cholesterol and Cardiovascular Risk: A Science Advisory From the American Heart Association. Circulation.
- Eggs. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
- B vitamins and cardiovascular health: mechanisms, clinical evidence, and precision prevention strategies. Nutrition & Metabolism.
- Saturated Fats. American Heart Association.
The Man Who Brought Back 'Doctor Who' Says Goodbye: "God, That Was Fun!"
Two days after the Doctor Who finale aired, television professionals who never watch the show kept stopping its showrunner at a London party to repeat one name: Billie. Russell T Davies, writing in a new memoir extract, says that reaction told him the ending had worked, at least in his eyes.
The ending came in “The Reality War,” the 2025 finale, when Ncuti Gatwa‘s Fifteenth Doctor regenerated into Billie Piper, who first joined the series in 2005 as Rose Tyler, companion to Christopher Eccleston‘s and David Tennant‘s Doctors. The closing credit introduced her without calling her the Doctor, and the BBC would say only that her reasons for returning were still to be revealed.
According to an extract from The Queerest of Folk: A Life in Television, ahead of its October 8 release, the original plan was different. Davies says Gatwa’s last episodes were made without knowing whether Disney would renew its deal, so the regeneration was shot open-ended, with no successor on screen. Once edited, it looked to him like the end of the entire series, and he did not want children watching that.
Related: ‘Doctor Who’ Legend Honored by the British Crown
Months of limbo followed while the BBC prepared to deliver the news that Disney had said no. Davies then called a Zoom with executives and told them the episode could not air as it was. They settled on Piper, and he says she agreed almost immediately.
The payoff, Davies writes, was immediate. People on the street, students in Manchester and members of his own family were talking about Doctor Who, and the biggest surprise for him came at that London party, a farewell for BBC content chief Charlotte Moore. The team had stayed close with Piper over the years, and Bad Wolf produced her series I Hate Suzie.
A Christmas special for 2026 was announced in October 2025 as Disney’s partnership ended. The BBC scrapped it on June 10, and Davies and Bad Wolf exited as the broadcaster put the series out to tender. In the memoir, Davies says he told the BBC on May 6 that the special should not be made and that energy belonged on the future. He also describes a pitch involving an English village, a spaceship, an outer-space festival and many Daleks.
Davies also writes that leaks shadowed two years of work, and says even Piper’s closing appearance was posted online beforehand. He argues that constant leaks have bred weariness among fans who no longer expect to be surprised.
Davies closes the extract by saying goodbye to the Whoniverse and calling the whole experience fun. The BBC’s tender process is still under way, and the Piper question now belongs to whichever team takes the show on. Davies says the change frees the show, and that a new production team could either embrace her appearance or explain it away in exactly seven words.
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Kim Kardashian Reveals Why She Wasn’t ‘Ready’ for Love Before Lewis Hamilton Romance
Kim Kardashian, one of the most famous women in the world, has shared some rare, intimate thoughts about her love life. The reality star revealed that she “needed to heal” before starting a new romance. Now, she is dating Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton.
Kardashian —worth $1.9bn according to Forbes and with 344m Instagram followers— confessed in a Zoom interview with The Times’ Style Magazine that she needed time for herself following the end of her marriage to Kanye West in 2021. “I was really single for five years. I needed to heal.”
The reality star, who currently has a new mansion under construction in California, also admitted that she has become accustomed to criticism. Her distinctive style has made her instantly recognizable: at the 2021 Met Gala, she wore a skin-tight black Balenciaga gown that completely covered her face, yet everyone still knew it was her. “I have a really thick skin,” she added.
View this post on InstagramIn the interview, she also opened up about her personal life. After her divorce, Kardashian dated comedian Pete Davidson, but has largely remained single since then. “And that felt great. I could focus on my kids and projects that I really wanted to be involved with. I really felt no rush. Like, I really didn’t feel empty. I felt like I needed my time.”
“I wanted to completely heal and just work on myself. I wasn’t ready to open up. I really wasn’t even thinking about it. The universe works in your favor when you just allow it to,” she said.
For Kardashian, those five years became an important period of personal growth.
During that time, she also continued growing her primary business, the shapewear brand Skims, which she co-founded with Jens and Emma Grede.
“It started with a simple idea,” Kardashian explained. “I’ve always loved wearing shapewear but the colour choices were two options, black or a really light, nude colour.”
“I would always dye my shapewear in the sink with tea bags to find something matching my skin tone, so I thought it would be brilliant if there was this range of almost a dozen neutral colours,” she said.
1977 Doobie Brothers Hit Left Michael McDonald With a Melody but No Lyrics Until Carly Simon Stepped In
Michael McDonald had the melody for a song the Doobie Brothers recorded in 1977, but he was missing one important thing: the lyrics. The solution came from an unexpected collaborator, Carly Simon, who turned his musical idea into a song that would become a Top 10 hit for her. The story behind “You Belong to Me” is a surprising meeting of two major 1970s artists—and a reminder that sometimes the song everyone knows starts with a very different version.
How Michael McDonald and Carly Simon Came Together to Write the Song @smoothwavetunes“🚤 Part 110 of the most streamed yacht rock hits! 391: ‘You Belong to Me’ by The Doobie Brothers 🎶 A timeless classic that takes you straight to the smooth waves 🌊 Stay tuned for more Yacht Rock hits! 🌟 #YachtRock #SmoothWaves #DoobieBrothers #ClassicHits #YachtRockVibes SmoothTunes”
♬ original sound – smoothwavetunesWritten by Michael McDonald and Carly Simon, “You Belong to Me” is a smooth soft-rock song that brought together two distinctive singer-songwriters of the 1970s. McDonald had written the melody but had no complete lyrics. Doobie Brothers producer Ted Templeman suggested that McDonald send the musical idea to Simon. A cassette tape of the melody was delivered to Simon, who handwrote the lyrics and returned them to McDonald. The two never worked on the song together in person, but their separate contributions came together to create a memorable hit.
Related: 1986 Song Inspired by ‘Itsy Bitsy Spider’ Became Carly Simon’s 12th Top 40 Hit
Carly Simon’s Version Became a Top 10 Hit @soulnrnbA #YachtRock classic written by #MichaelMcDonald with David Sanborn on sax on the record. Recorded in 1978, here is #CarlySimon live. #SoulMusic #SoulMusicVibes #70sSoul #BlueEyedSoul #TheSoulMixtape
♬ You Belong To Me (Live) – Carly SimonThe Doobie Brothers recorded a version of the song for their 1977 album Livin’ on the Fault Line, but it was never released as a single. Simon recorded the song for her 1978 album Boys in the Trees. Her version became a hit, reaching No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song found another life in the 1985 film Desperately Seeking Susan.
Despite holding very different places in ’70s soft-rock culture, Simon’s lyrics and McDonald’s melody blend seamlessly, thanks in part to Simon’s gift for storytelling and her ability to keep the song’s tone firmly within the yacht-rock genre.
While Simon’s version of “You Belong to Me” became a major hit single, the Doobie Brothers’ recording has continued to find an audience over time. The story behind the song is a fun reminder of how unexpected collaborations can shape the music we still love. And with the Doobie Brothers’ version offering a fresh way to hear a familiar song, it’s worth revisiting the track that brought McDonald’s melody and Simon’s lyrics together.
Related: Bob Dylan Wrote These Lyrics in 1967 and They’re Back on the Charts Thanks to ‘Ted Lasso’
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If Tokyo Is on Your Bucket List, Don’t Miss Citi’s New 30% Airline Transfer Bonus
If it feels like everyone you know is suddenly slurping authentic ramen in Shinjuku or wandering through the neon glow of Shibuya, you aren’t imagining things. American travelers are heading to Japan in record numbers right now. In fact, fresh booking data from Citi Travel shows that Tokyo has officially claimed the crown as the platform’s number-one international destination, leading an overseas surge where more than a third of all bookings are heading abroad.
Now, turning that dream trip across the Pacific into reality just got a whole lot cheaper if you carry the right credit card.
Citi ThankYou Rewards is officially adding Japan Airlines to its roster of airline transfer partners. Even better, Citi is kicking off the new relationship with a limited-time 30% transfer bonus to JAL Mileage Bank that runs through October 24.
Related: A Points and Miles Expert Reveals Why 86% of Us Are Wasting Travel Rewards
View this post on InstagramThat extra cushion makes a noticeable difference for your points balance. If you hold an annual-fee card like the Citi Strata Premier, every 1,000 ThankYou Points you move will yield 1,300 JAL miles during the promotional window, before settling into a permanent 1-to-1 ratio once the deal wraps up. Cardholders with no-annual-fee products like the Citi Double Cash can also get in on the action, getting 910 JAL miles per 1,000 points right now compared to the standard 700 miles down the road.
For points-and-miles fans, having direct access to Japan Airlines is a game changer. JAL is part of the Oneworld alliance, but booking their award seats in the past often required jumping through hoops with partner programs like American AAdvantage or British Airways Avios. A direct line to JAL’s own loyalty engine typically unlocks much better seat availability on their nonstop flights departing from hubs like New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, and Boston.
Related: I’m a Travel Advisor—This Is the Destination I’ve Booked the Most in the Past Six Months
Beyond the long-haul journey—which happens to feature some of the best service, food, and legroom in the skies—JAL miles are also fantastic for booking cheap domestic hops across the country. That makes it easy to land in Tokyo and quickly connect down to Kyoto, Osaka, or the beaches of Okinawa without burning through your vacation savings.
Just remember the golden rule of award travel before making a move: point transfers are permanent, so always log into your JAL Mileage Bank account to find open award seats on your target travel dates before transferring your Citi points. If you find the seats you want, locking them in with that 30% cushion is one of the smartest redemptions you will find all year.
Related: The No-Annual-Fee Card in Your Wallet Might Have Just Become Your Best Travel Companion
