Parade
Food Network's Busiest Star Launches New Cooking Series Ahead of Another Highly Anticipated Show Premiere
Just weeks before the debut of her new Food Network series Kitchen Undercover, chefAntonia Lofaso is adding another project to her packed summer schedule.
Food Network and TikTok LIVE announced Tuesday, June 30 that they're launching a new interactive cooking series pairing popular TikTok creators with Food Network chefs for hour-long livestreams from the Food Network Kitchen.
The first installment, TikTok LIVE x Food Network Presents: Tomato Season, streams Wednesday, July 8 at 8 p.m. ET across the @foodnetwork, @jose.elcook, @tiktok and @tiktoklive_us TikTok accounts.
Lofaso will be joined by creator Jose El Cook, whose energetic cooking videos and practical kitchen tips have helped him build a massive following on TikTok. During the livestream, the pair will prepare several tomato-focused recipes while sharing cooking techniques, answering viewer questions and interacting with fans through live polls and chat.
According to Food Network, the new collaboration builds on the success of the companies' Future of Flavor LIVE event earlier this year and is designed to bring viewers directly into the Food Network Kitchen through real-time conversations with chefs and creators.
The announcement comes during one of Food Network's busiest summers in recent years.
Earlier this month, Parade exclusively revealed the network's ambitious July lineup, which includes Guy's Grocery Games: Global Games and Kitchen Chaos premiering July 8, Pitmasters hosted by Andrew Zimmern on July 13, Restaurant Impossible: Last Call with Aarón Sánchez on July 23 and a new season of The Great Food Truck Race with Tyler Florence beginning July 26.
Lofaso is also front and center in that lineup. Her new hidden-camera restaurant rescue series, Kitchen Undercover, premieres Tuesday, July 28, and follows the chef and sous chef Nestor Milian as they secretly investigate struggling restaurants before attempting dramatic turnarounds.
Already one of Food Network's most recognizable personalities, Lofaso recently won season 6 of Tournament of Champions and regularly appears on Beat Bobby Flay, Chopped, Guy's Grocery Games and Wildcard Kitchen. Away from television, she owns several acclaimed Los Angeles restaurants and is the author of "The Busy Mom's Cookbook."
The new TikTok LIVE partnership gives fans another opportunity to cook alongside Lofaso before she returns to primetime later this month, while also expanding Food Network's growing slate of digital programming alongside its busy television schedule.
Related: Beloved Food Network Star Announces 'Powerful' New Partnership
‘Orange Is the New Black’ Star Hospitalized After Freak Pool Accident, and It Was All Caught on Video
Ruby Rose was rushed to the hospital after a freak accident in her backyard swimming pool.
The Orange Is the New Black star, 40, first gained notoriety as a model before hitting it big on the popular Netflix series alongside Natasha Lyonne and Taylor Schilling from 2015 to 2016. She went on to roles in films like Pitch Perfect 3 and The Meg. But all the fame and the world won't save you from the classic freak accident, and Rose shared her own version this week.
In a video captured at Rose's home, the star was attempting to work on her swimming pool at home with a hose in her hand. Wearing a bra and sweatpants, Rose misjudged the ledge of the pool and went plunging into the water, slamming into the ledge before falling in. She clutched her ribs in pain as she made her way out of the water.
“RIP to my ribs, and to the rest of my summer,” the star wrote on the video, which was captured by her outdoor camera and shared to her Instagram Stories on Monday. “They are broken, multiple.”
Check out a screenshot of the video below, which shows Rose shocked to be in the water after the fall.
"That's your girl!" she laughed at herself.
(Instagram/Ruby Rose)
Rose Found Herself in the HospitalOn her Threads page, Rose elaborated on the accident, which resulted in two broken ribs and a trip to the hospital.
"One second I'm here talking to you. The next I'm in the ho[s]pital with two broken ribs. What a bloody Monday," she noted, adding that she now has "to breathe into a machine lol" after landing "perfectly on the right side of my ribs. Breaking the bottom two."
"Not bloody worth it is it!," Rose noted in the comments after someone else shared they had been through a similarly painful pool incident, Entertainment Weekly pointed out. "Holy fire of hell!"
We're wishing her a speedy recovery!
Related: Katy Perry Posts FaceTime Photo With Daughter Daisy Amid Ruby Rose Drama
This Sturdy and Sleek Backpack Cooler Will Be the Best Money You'll Spend All Summer
Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
Whether you're heading out for a weekend adventure or simply spending the day away from home, having the right gear can make all the difference. Convenience and accessibility are two things I never take for granted when I'm traveling. The last thing I want is to carry multiple bags or constantly search for something I packed. Having one dependable bag that keeps everything organized makes the experience much more enjoyable.
As someone who loves spending time outdoors, I'm always looking for products that make my adventures easier. From fishing at my favorite lakes to hiking scenic trails and mountains or attending summer cookouts and sporting events, I appreciate anything that simplifies the day. Whether it's a quick day trip or an overnight getaway, having a reliable bag has become just as important as packing the right supplies.
Dometic Unrestricted 24-Liter Cooler Backpack, $269.99 at DometicDometic
One product that has impressed me is the Dometic Unrestricted 24-Liter Cooler Backpack. At first glance, it looks like a stylish everyday backpack, but after using it, I realized it's much more versatile than that. It combines the functionality of a traditional backpack with the convenience of an insulated cooler, making it useful for just about any outing.
One of my favorite things about this backpack is how much it can hold. If I'm heading to a tailgate party during football season, it easily keeps my drinks cold while still leaving plenty of room for snacks and other essentials. Instead of carrying a separate cooler and backpack, I can fit everything into one bag, making it much easier to transport from my vehicle to wherever I'm setting up.
Related: I Went to Dollar Tree To Shop for Dinner and Came Back With These 4 Easy Meals
What surprised me the most was how practical it is beyond keeping beverages chilled. I regularly carry my 16-inch laptop inside, and it fits comfortably with room to spare for charging cables, notebooks, sunglasses, a portable battery pack and other everyday accessories. Having dedicated space for both work and recreation makes it incredibly versatile. Whether I'm working remotely from a coffee shop before heading out on an adventure or packing for a weekend road trip, this backpack adapts to whatever I need.
The backpack also feels durable enough to handle outdoor use while still looking modern enough for everyday travel. That's something I really appreciate because I don't want to switch bags depending on where I'm going. It transitions seamlessly from work to recreation without looking out of place.
After spending time with the Dometic Unrestricted 24-Liter Cooler Backpack, I can honestly say it's become one of those products I find myself reaching for more often than expected. It helps me stay organized, keeps my drinks cold and carries everything I need without feeling bulky. If you're someone who enjoys outdoor adventures, sporting events, road trips or wants one bag that can do a little bit of everything, this backpack is definitely worth considering.
Best-Selling Author’s Classic Novel Ranked Among ‘Best Books’ of All Time on Goodreads
Richard Adams had never written a novel before Watership Down.
The story famously began as a series of tales Adams invented to entertain his two daughters during long car rides. What started as an improvised adventure about a group of rabbits searching for a new home eventually became one of the most celebrated novels of the 20th century, recently earning 78th place among Goodreads' user-ranked list of the best books of all time.
"When you're little you don't distinguish between fiction and reality," Adams told The Guardian. "It's all reality. And thank goodness for that. I do not believe in talking down to children. Readers like to be upset, excited and bowled over. I can remember weeping when I was little at upsetting things that were read to me, but fortunately my mother and father were wise enough to keep going."
Watership Down's road to publication was anything but easy.
After completing the manuscript, Adams faced rejection from seven publishers before Rex Collings agreed to take a chance on the novel in 1972.
The gamble paid off. Word of mouth quickly transformed Watership Down into an international bestseller, introducing millions of readers to Hazel, Fiver, Bigwig and the unforgettable community of rabbits whose quest for survival became the heart of the story.
View this post on InstagramAlthough often mistaken for a children's book because its central characters are animals, Watership Down tackles remarkably mature themes. Friendship, leadership, courage, environmental change and the struggle for freedom all play central roles, while Adams created an intricate mythology and language that gave the rabbits' world an extraordinary sense of depth.
The novel's success launched an entirely new chapter in Adams' life. Before becoming an author, he worked as a civil servant in the British government. Following the runaway success of Watership Down, he left that career behind to write full time, eventually publishing numerous novels while remaining forever associated with his remarkable debut.
"It was rather difficult to start with," he explained. "I was 52 when I discovered I could write. I wish I'd known a bit earlier. I never thought of myself as a writer until I became one."
Over the decades, Watership Down has inspired multiple film, television and stage adaptations, including the acclaimed 1978 animated feature that introduced the story to another generation of fans. Its influence has continued to grow through schools, book clubs and online reading communities, where new readers continue discovering the novel's timeless themes.
"I've always said that Watership Down is not a book for children," Adams told BBC. "I say: it's a book, and anyone who wants to read it can read it. And I've had fan letters not only from kids who can hardly hold a pencil but the oldest one came from a man aged 85 who said how much he enjoyed the book."
Its recent appearance among Goodreads' best books of all time reflects that enduring appeal.
More than 50 years after its publication, readers continue to embrace Adams' unforgettable blend of adventure, mythology and emotional storytelling, proving that Watership Down is far more than a novel about rabbits, it's one of literature's most enduring modern classics.
Related: Best-Selling Author’s Classic Novel Ranked Among ‘Most Read Books’ on Goodreads
1973 Soft Rock Hit, Ranked Among 'Best Songs' of All Time, Became a Timeless American Anthem
Paul Simon released a single titled "American Tune" that wasn't meant to be a political statement, but became a generational anthem about America.
"American Tune" was a soft rock track that was released during Simon's solo career from the musical duo as part of his third studio album, There Goes Rhymin' Simon. It had moderate success on the charts at No. 35, but received higher praise among critics for its "beautiful melody wrapped around meaningful lyrics." Rolling Stone even ranked it at No. 262 on their list of the "Best Songs of All Time."
Many may notice that the inspiration behind the track's tune is somewhat familiar. Its melody line is based on Johann Sebastian Bach's chorale from "St. Matthew Passion" that's also a reworking of an earlier secular song, "Mein G'müt ist mir verwirret", composed by Hans Leo Hassler.
"American Tune" gained traction among listeners due to the political landscape in America at the time of its release. Simon would admit in an interview that the song was written after Richard Nixon was reelected president in a landslide victory against George McGovern.
At the time, it was seen as a significant low point for the Democratic Party as Nixon was in the spotlight over the Watergate scandal. Nixon also oversaw the final years of U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War, and it would later end due to the Paris Peace Accords ending direct American combat operations and the military draft ending in 1973.
Simon once told Tom Noon in an interview that, "I don’t write overtly political songs, although “American Tune” comes pretty close, as it was written just after Nixon was elected. Writing good political songs or so-called “protest songs” is its own art form. When I write about politics it’s usually part of a song, maybe a verse or two rather than the whole thing. Many of the songs, the ones that aren’t story songs, change subjects as often as any internal conversation does. Our minds flit from topic to topic all the time. I write like that."
"American Tune" would cement itself as a longstanding anthem among fans and politics. Simon would later sing the track at the pre-inaugural concert for Jimmy Carter in 1977, and it was later used in 2008 by the progressive advocacy group Progressive Future. They used the song in a TV ad in support of Barack Obama for his presidential campaign.
It was also featured in the series The Wonder Years and covered by multiple artists since its release. The song became a concert favorite for Simon, and he would also perform the song on The Colbert Report and one of the final shows for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.
Related: 1979 Rock Track, Featuring a 112-Piece Marching Band, Became an Experimental Classic
Rod Stewart Reveals Brutal Accident Is Behind Iconic Raspy Voice
Rod Stewart has one of the most recognisable voices in rock, but it's not totally natural.
The British singer revealed in 2024 that a painful accident may be the cause of his iconic husky vocal style.
Speaking to Nick Grimshaw and Annie Macmanus on a 2024 BBC Sounds Sidetracked podcast, the 'Maggie May' singer shared the secret to his unique-sounding voice and recounted how doctors urged him to have it fixed.
"Doctors have said it's because I broke my nose playing football, which has given me this huskiness. They actually said that 'if you straighten your nose out, you'll breathe better, but you might lose your voice'. And I said 'no way'. But no, I got an elbow across the nose playing football," he admitted, per the Express.
The 81-year-old admitted that the "raspiness" to his voice is "purely by accident and obviously maybe God's gift".
The singer also explained how he warms up for a show. "Tons and tons of water, and if I lose my voice at a concert, because I’ve overstretched, the next day I have to wear a sign which says I can not talk to anybody, and I have voice rest for eight to ten hours. It works miracles. My voice always comes back. It really is the crown jewels."
He also addressed the incident on a February 2024 episode of CBS Sunday Morning. The 'Stay With Me' star was asked how he developed the sound of his voice.
Stewart explained, “I didn’t … try to make it really raspy. It’s just the way it came out. It’s something to do with my nose and my throat, and it’s just a big accident.”
The vocalist also pointed out that early in his career, he wanted to sing like “Sam Cooke and all the great R&B singers,” but “this is how it came out.”
Rod recently had to stop a live show to receive oxygen after struggling on stage. Last week, per the Independent, he admitted he shouldn't have gone to see his beloved Scotland play Haiti in the World Cup in California. “You know, I had to cancel a show the night before because I just had no voice left. But the truth is I wasn’t going to let my two sons down.”
Clive Davis's Son Didn't Know One of His '60s Folk Rock Artists Was Famous
The strange thing about being the kid of the rich and famous is that you don't realize the people around you are also rich and famous. That seemed to be the case for legendary music executive Clive Davis's loved ones.
The father had four children named Fred,Lauren, Mitchell, and Douglas. One of them spoke at his funeral and revealed that he didn't know a singer-songwriter was famous because he was just a family friend to him.
Douglas Davis Didn't Know Paul Simon Was Famous View this post on InstagramThe record producer died at 94 years old on June 22, 2026. Douglas, 54, spoke at his funeral on June 29, giving a peek into his childhood.
"Beautiful moments happen when someone passes, if you can see them. One of those was reconnecting with that neighbor, Paul Simon," he said, according to TODAY.
"I hadn’t spoken to Paul in 40 years," the entertainment lawyer explained. "He and I have been able to speak every day this past week to reminisce and for me to receive some needed paternal advice and love."
That included telling the "You Can Call Me Al" singer how clueless he was for years. "I finally had the chance to say something I’d wanted to say to him for 40 years," he said. "I told him when I was kid, he was just Harper’s dad. I had no idea the whole time he was Paul Simon."
Related: Why Alicia Keys’ Manager Was ‘Livid’ After Her First Clive Davis Meeting
Paul Simon Was Always Grateful for a Clive Davis' Single ChoiceSimon, 84, and Art Garfunkel met in school as they grew up in Queens. They eventually signed with Columbia Records in 1963. Davis became chairman of the company in 1967.
Paramount+ released a miniseries called Clive Davis: Most Iconic Performances. Davis talked to Simon about performing in his home neighborhood. Simon revealed an important decision the executive made when it was time to choose a single from Simon & Garfunkel's Bridge over Troubled Water.
"You were the person who picked 'Bridge Over Troubled Water.' You came into the studio, we played the album for you. And you said, 'What do you think the single is?'" Simon said in an episode.
He had a different opinion. "And I said that I think it is probably 'Cecilia.' And you said, 'No, it has to be 'Bridge Over Troubled Water.'"
Simon thought the folk rock song was too long, and the first minutes relied on very few instruments. He said he was always grateful to Davis for that. Davis said it was important to break away from the norm to make music history.
Simon couldn't attend Davis' funeral. He recently released Paul Simon: The Quiet Celebration Concert on Disney+. It's a two-hour concert, and Simon talked about losing his hearing in his older age. He explained that he's adjusting to using a softer band to continue performing.
Related: How Neil Young and Funk Legend Crossed Paths Before Solo Fame
'Indiana Jones' Star Dead at 82
Actor Michael Byrne — perhaps best known for his role as Vogel in 1989's Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade and Gellert Grindelwald in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 — has died at the age of 82.
The tragic news was announced by The Sunon Tuesday, June 30.
The British actor was born in London in November 1943 and began a storied career in his 20s.
In addition to starring alongside Harrison Ford and Sean Connery, Byrne was well known for his role as Gail Platt's long lost father Ted Page on the ITV soap opera Coronation Street.
Fans from around the globe sent their condolences following the devastating news.
"Rest In Peace Michael Byrne. Played a Hell of a Villain." one user shared via X.
"So sad to hear about the death of Michael Byrne who played the glorious Gay Ted in #Corrie," another wrote.
His iconic resume also includes roles in Braveheart alongside Mel Gibson, Tomorrow Never Dies with Pierce Brosnan, and Martin Scorsese's Gangs of New York.
Dollar General's $20 Kitchen Staple Turns Home-Cooked Meals Into Restaurant-Worthy Dishes
Whether you're stocking your kitchen with cookware essentials for the first time or adding a new piece to elevate your culinary game, few tools can match the reliability and versatility of a good cast iron skillet. From easy one-pan dinners and hearty breakfasts to scrumptious baked treats and perfectly seared meats, there's really no shortage of creative ways to put one to use.
So if you're on the hunt for something exciting to take home and cook with, you'll want to stop by your local Dollar General for the Lodge 9-Inch Cast Iron Frying Pan. Designed by one of the most trusted names in cast iron cookware and retailing for just $19.50, this irreplaceable mealtime workhorse is ready to level up your game with a naturally seasoned surface that's perfect for nearly all your favorite recipes.
Lodge 9-Inch Cast Iron Frying Pan, $19.50 at Dollar GeneralWhile cast iron cookware isn't hard to find, there are a few brands shoppers reach for time and time again, and Lodge is one of them. Voted the No. 1 cast-iron skillet of 2025, Lodge has built a reputation for cookware that's easy to acquire, stands the test of time and performs like a pro.
Ideal for a wide range of culinary uses, Lodge's 9-Inch Cast Iron Frying Pan can handle just about anything you throw at it. It comes pre-seasoned with 100 percent natural vegetable oil, so it's ready to cook right out of the box, and it delivers unparalleled heat retention and even heating with every use. Even better, it's compatible with all cooktops, including induction, and can be used in the oven, on the grill or over a campfire without risk of damage.
Related: Target's 4-Piece Stoneware Set Is a 'Beautiful' $20 Kitchen Upgrade
As for size, this pan measures 13.75 inches in length, handle included, with a 9.68-inch cooking surface and 1.87-inch side walls. Its spacious design makes it roomy enough to sear steaks, whip up one-pan pasta dishes, roast veggies and bake desserts, while its durable construction and long handle make it easy to move from stove to oven and kitchen to table. And considering it's made in the U.S. without forever chemicals, you can cook confidently knowing exactly what's going into your food.
How to Care for and Use a Cast Iron PanWhile cast iron cookware is built to last, a simple care routine can go a long way in keeping your piece performing at its best. With proper cleaning, drying and seasoning, your pan will not only look incredible over time but also develop a naturally nonstick surface that improves with each use. To get the most out of your cast iron pan, the following tips are a great place to start:
- Wash with warm water and a small amount of mild soap after each use.
- Avoid soaking the pan, as excess moisture can lead to rust.
- Dry it thoroughly right after washing.
- After cleaning, rub a light layer of cooking oil over the surface while the pan is still warm (or warm it over low heat first) to help maintain the seasoning.
- Store it in a dry place to protect the seasoning and prevent rust.
Whether you're cooking at home, over the campfire or at your next summer cookout, the Lodge 9-Inch Cast Iron Frying Pan is ready for the job. Don't miss your chance to snag one while it's still in stock, and while you're there, check out Dollar General's Cheerful 4-Piece Bowl Set and Dolly Parton Drink Pitcher.
Related: The Costco Frozen Aisle Is Hiding Restaurant-Quality Dishes—Here Are the 10 Worth Buying
Grammy-Winning Rapper Reportedly Booked at Trump Jr.'s Exclusive Washington, D.C. MAGA Club the Night Before America Turns 250
Donald Trump got Vanilla Ice and Lee Greenwood. But his son, Donald Trump Jr., reportedly got someone much more famous…Grammy winner 50 Cent.
Rumors are flying that the A-list rapper will perform at Don Jr.’s ultra-exclusive members-only Washington, D.C. club, Executive Branch, on July Fourth eve.
Co-founded by the eldest Trump child (along with partners Omeed Malik and Christopher Buskirk of 1789 Capital), the super-swanky space is a haven for the rich and famous. With a $500,000 membership price tag, the Georgetown spot has supposedly hosted a slew of celeb performers, including Nelly, Busta Rhymes, Ja Rule, Timbaland, and Akon.
While 50 Cent hasn’t confirmed the Executive Branch appearance slated for July 3rd, The Daily Beastrecently revealed that a source with ties to the club shared the news.
Is 50 Cent really performing at Don Jr.’s Washington, D.C., members-only club?Based on media reports, the answer is yes. But whether this is just a wishful rumor or the truth remains to be seen. With the July 4th holiday right around the corner, it looks like fans will get their answer soon.
What do fans think about 50 Cent performing at a Trump event for America’s 250th birthday?Fans and critics took to social media, sharing their opinions of the supposed somewhat strange pairing of 50 Cent and Trump Jr.
On the Entertainment subreddit, one commenter compared it to the Freedom 250 concert fiasco: “This smells like yet another ‘we hired these guys for this without actually telling them’ situation.” Other commenters added, “50 Cent knows better” and “By the end of the day the lineup will just be Lee Greenwood, Vanilla Ice, and Kid Rocklike all their other events.”
Is 50 Cent a Trump supporter?While the Grammy award winner isn’t speaking publicly about his reported (not confirmed) participation at Don Jr.’s pre-America’s 250th birthday party, he has spoken about the Trump family in the past.
In a 2024 appearance on The Breakfast Club, 50 Cent revealed that he turned down a whopping sum of $3 million to appear at a Madison Square Garden Trump rally, saying, “I didn’t even go far.”
50 Cent explained, “I’m afraid of politics, you understand? I do not like it…It’s because when you do get involved in it, no matter how you feel, somebody passionately disagrees with you.”
Has the rapper made a 180, or is this just a case of a rumor gone wrong? And then there’s the issue of separating Donald from Don Jr. Yes, Trump Jr. certainly shares his father’s views. But he’s not the president, and while his club’s members reportedly include the MAGA elite, it’s far from a political venue.
Netflix Reveals First Trailer for 'The Golden Ticket' Reality Competition—See When It Premieres
"Come with me, and you'll be...in a world of pure imagination."
I'm not the biggest fan of reality shows (I tend to get annoyed at the contestants). But I'm down for The Golden Ticket, a new competition series coming to Netflix based on Roald Dahl's Willy Wonka character. Even though Oompa-Loompas scare me a little (still, to this day), I will fight through my fears to sip from an edible daisy teacup and ride down a chocolate river.
Whether you're young or old, grew up on the Gene Wilder version of Willy Wonka or the modernized version with Timotheé Chalamet, or even in between the two with Johnny Depp as the great chocolatier, chances are this show might pique your interest.
Back in 2021, Netflix acquired the rights to the Roald Dahl Story Company which allowed them to create new content from Dahl's works. This is their first foray into the world of Willy Wonka. They previously produced Matilda the Musical and The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar (starring Benedict Cumberbatch).
"We are thrilled to bring the magic of The Chocolate Factory to life like never before,” said Jeff Gaspin, Vice President of Unscripted at Netflix. “This one-of-a-kind reality competition blends adventure, strategy, and social dynamics, creating an experience that is as captivating as it is unpredictable. For the first time, a lucky few won’t just have to imagine the experience—they’ll get to step inside the factory and live it."
Here's everything we know so far about The Golden Ticket.
What is The Golden Ticket about?Twelve lucky Golden Ticket winners, each with a partner of their choosing, will step through the gates of Wonka’s Chocolate Factory and into a world of pure imagination, delicious mischief, and unexpected challenges. Once inside, contestants must navigate a series of Wonka’s games, tests, and temptations designed to challenge them physically, mentally, and morally. In this high-stakes social experiment, players will journey through the factory’s wondrous and unpredictable landscape, adapting, strategizing, and withstanding the unknown while proving they have the instincts, resilience, and character to thrive in chaos. In the end, only one contestant will have what it takes to earn Wonka’s life-changing prize.
Can I apply to be a contestant on The Golden Ticket?You can! As long as you are 18 or older, you can apply to be a contestant on The Golden Ticket! I'm thinking of applying myself!
Take a look at the casting video here and then you can find the application to compete on The Golden Ticket here.
Related: Netflix’s New ‘Willy Wonka’ Competition Series Garners Very Divided Reactions
What can I win on The Golden Ticket?No word yet on what contestants will win on The Golden Ticket. It might be a cash prize, lots of chocolate, or both!
Is The Golden Ticket based on other material?The Golden Ticket is based on Willy Wonka, a character creator by writer Roald Dahl.
Who is Roald Dahl?Roald Dahl is an author who is best known for his children's books and stories. Many of his works have been adapted to films including James and the Giant Peach, Fantastic Mr. Fox, and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, the latter spawning three films across three decades - Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and Wonka.
Fun fact: Roald Dahl was once married to actress Patricia Neal (Hud, Breakfast at Tiffany's, The Day the Earth Stood Still).
Related: Love Is Blind Reveals Location for Season 9
Will any of the actors from any of the Willy Wonka movies appear on The Golden Ticket?With permission from the Gene Wilder Estate, Wilder's voice has be recreated in his iconic role as Willy Wonka for the series. The series will also welcome back Rusty Goffe, who appeared in the original 1971 film, reprising his role as an Oompa Loompa.
"More than five decades after Gene brought Willy Wonka to life, people of all ages and backgrounds around the world continue to find joy, laughter and inspiration in his performance,” said Karen B. Wilder, Gene Wilder’s wife, on behalf of the Gene Wilder Estate. “Gene had a remarkable ability to bring humor, wonder and heart into people’s lives, and that connection has endured for generations. We are delighted that Wonka’s The Golden Ticket celebrates the warmth and imagination that he brought to the role, introducing that magic to a new generation while honoring the fans who have cherished it for decades.”
When does The Golden Ticket film?Production is already underway on The Golden Ticket.
Where does The Golden Ticket film?The location is currently secret, but psst! We'll let you know when we find out!
When does The Golden Ticket premiere?To celebrate the 55th anniversary of the classic 1971 film, The Golden Ticket will premiere on Wednesday, Sept. 23 on Netflix.
Does Parade have a sneak peek of The Golden Ticket?Yes! Netflix dropped the first teaser for the competition reality series. Check out the official teaser for The Golden Ticket below.
The 5 Clips Fans Are Begging to See on 'Love Island USA' Season 8 Movie Night
Movie Night has become one of Love Island USA's most anticipated events. After the segment was notably absent from last season, fans begged production to bring it back.
During Saturday's Aftersun episode, hosts Ciara Miller and Tefi Pessoa confirmed Movie Night is returning, but with a twist. Fans of the show can request which clips are shown to the cast members by commenting under the Love Island USAInstagram—providing viewers with the perfect opportunity to disrupt islanders' reputations in the Villa. With the jaw-dropping events of Casa Amor behind them, fans are more ready than ever to expose the islanders to each other.
We reviewed hundreds of comments across Love Island USA’s social media channels and identified the moments viewers mentioned the most. These five picks are the most popular requests for Movie Night features.
1. Insincere Melanie Moreno, Sol Dean, Sincere Nicholas Rhea on Love Island USA Season 8 Episode 13.Ben Symons/Peacock via Getty Images
Despite his name, OG islander Sincere has proven to be rather dishonest with his connections throughout the season. One of the biggest requests from fans is to show proof of his insincerity to the Villa, but most importantly to his partner, Melanie.
Fans want production to air a compilation of Sincere telling different things to Melanie while continuing to string along Bombshell Sol and Casa girl Amora.
"Sincere and Sol smooching in the speakeasy RIGHT BEFORE Melanie walks in ‼️‼️‼️‼️"
"Sincere telling Amora if they had more time she would’ve been the one!!!"
"Sincere telling amora he would 100% pick her if they had more time"
"Sincere contradicting himself pls telling amora she would've been the one, telling sol he was the one for her and then telling melanie the same thing"
2. KC & Corbin in Casa Caleb McDaniel, Sincere Nicholas Rhea, Zacharias Georgiou, Bryce Alakai Dettloff and Corbin Mims on Love Island USA Season 8 Episode 18.While in Casa Amor, OG islander KC and Bombshell Corbin had a lot to say about the Villa girls. The pair gossiped multiple times while away for the week, notably comparing the Villa girls to "high schoolers" and the Casa girls to "college girls." Fans are adamant about airing the duo's shady conversations to the rest of the Villa.
"CORBIN SAYING THEY ARE HIGHSCHOOL GIRLS AND THE CASA GIRLS ARE COLLEGE GIRLS"
"I want all Corbin and KC chats shown lol"
"All the conversations of Kc and Corbin bashing the Villa girls"
"Corbin saying the villa girls give high school & the casa girls give college"
3. Bryce as Jay Gatsby Trinity Celeste Tatum and Bryce Alakai Dettloff on Love Island USA Season 8 Episode 10.Ben Symons/Peacock via Getty Images
On a sweeter note, fans are desperate to show Trinity Bryce's yearning streak during Casa Amor. Bryce and Trinity have been going strong since the first recoupling, so Bryce's Casa experience was nothing short of hilariously miserable.
During the separation, he made several grandiose speeches about missing his lady, leaving viewers with some truly heart-throbbing scenes. Now that the pair have made things official, fans think there is no better way to celebrate than to share their faithfulness during Love Island's greatest relationship test.
"BRYCE YEARNING FOR TRINITY, TRINITY YEARNING FOR BRYCE"
"Bryce’s love is risky conversation with sincere about trinity ❤️"
"HOW BRYCE WAS YEARNING FOR TRINITY AT CASA"
4. The Secret Kiss Zacharias Georgiou, Kayda Reese Bosse, Mackenzie "Kenzie" Brooke Annis and Corbin Mims on Love Island USA Season 8.Ben Symons/Peacock via Getty Images
During OG Islander Kenzie's first love triangle between her, Corbin and Bombshell Caleb, she shared a secret kiss in the Villa bedroom with Corbin. The steamy kiss took place when Kenzie was still in a couple with Caleb, and 11 episodes later, it remains a secret to the rest of the cast.
Fans want that clip aired alongside her recent kiss with Casa boy Gal, whom she kissed while in a couple with Casa boy Dylan. Kenzie's track record of holding two boys' hearts at once is catching up to her, and viewers want it addressed on a Villa-wide scale.
"Kenzie kissing Corbin while she was still coupled up with Caleb."
KENZIE AND GAL kissing !!!!!"
"kenzie kissing Gal right after saying she liked Dylan"
"kenzie and corbin’s kiss and them saying not to tell anyone"
"Kenzie and Corbin’s secret kiss"
5. Not So Noble Kayda Reese Bosse and Zacharias Georgiou on Love Island Season 8 Episode 10.Ben Symons/Peacock via Getty Images
Although OG islander Zach returned to the Villa single after Casa Amor, he hasn't been telling his partner Kayda the entire truth. While away, Zach formed a tight connection with Casa girl Alannah, who was abruptly removed from the show after proof of her controversial past was exposed. Now back in the Villa, Zach has made it seem as though he chose to come back single because he missed Kayda, while in reality, he didn't have much of a choice. Fans are begging to let the real truth come to light, asking production to reveal what happened to Zach's Casa partner.
"make it clear to kayda that zach didn’t do the noble thing by coming back single but that he had no choice bc alannah was dumped‼️"
"ALLANAH GETTING DUMPED"
"TELL KAYDA WHY ALANNAH LEFT THE VILLA!!!!!!! that’s the only reason zach didn’t bring her back🙄🙄🙄🙄"
"tell kayda why zach came back alone"
Season 8's Movie Night is slated to air tonight on Peacock at 9 p.m. EST.
Related: Where the 'Off Campus' Crew Would Spend Their Off-Season
‘80s TV Star Thought Show Was ‘a Giant Mess’ Before It Became No. 1 Hit
Linda Gray was a household name in the 1970s and ‘80s thanks to her role as Sue Ellen Ewing on Dallas. The actress was a main cast member on the CBS drama series from 1978 to 1989, then reprised her role for the 1991 series finale, two 1990s made-for-TV movies, and a TNT revival series in 2012.
The series about Texas cattle ranching clan, the Ewings, started out as a CBS miniseries but soon became one of the biggest shows of the 1980s. Dallas was the number one rated television series from 1980 to 1982, per Business Insider.
That’s why it may be hard to believe that Gray initially thought her days as the wife of oil tycoon J. R. Ewing (Larry Hagman) would be short-lived.
In a new interview with Celebrity Drop, Gray, 85, admitted she didn’t know what to think when she first met her future co-stars.
“We were all in this room, the entire cast,” she recalled in the June 2026 interview. “Nobody knew who we were. We were actors, unemployed actors that just got a job. And so we were all crammed together in this little room. And Larry looked at me, and he said, ‘Hello, darling.’ And I thought, ‘Oh, this is trouble.’”
Gray admitted she recognized Hagman from his past role as Major Tony Nelson in the 1960s sitcomI Dream of Jeanie and actually had a crush on him.
“And now he's here in front of me,” she continued. “And then I looked at Patrick Duffy. And I thought, there's the man from Atlantis. And then I saw Barbara Bel Geddes, and I thought, ohmy God, they'd thrown Broadway in here. Here was this queen of Broadway. And I thought, 'What is, who cast this? This is a mess.' And then Charlene [Tilton] was a tiny little wonderful thing, 18 years old. And then Steve Kanaly, the cowboy, and Ken Kecheval, who was a wonderful actor.”
"And so I just looked around the room going, ‘Oh my God, this what is this?’” Gray admitted. “And I just laughed, and I thought, ‘Well, I'm part of it somehow. We have to figure out what part,' because it seemed like a giant mess to me."
RELATED: Iconic ‘70s Sitcom Featured One of the Longest Laughs in TV History
Gray grew to love her character, who was a former pageant queen who struggled with alcoholism and a volatile marriage. In a 2103 interview with The Dallas Decoder, she noted of Sue Ellen, “I have often said I found her to be the most interesting woman on television in the ’80s because she was so complex and complicated.”
Speaking with WFAA in 2024, Gray added that Dallas featured an incredible ensemble cast that took it through three decades on television.
“What I find so special about the show, the people, the actors were amazing,” she shared. “Everybody was spectacular, and I think it just tapped into the heart of a global audience, and they loved it, loved to hate it, whatever they wanted to do, but they tuned in.”
'Big Brother's New Companion Show Just Added a Famous Co-Host and a Game-Changing Twist
On July 10, the Big Brother companion show Big Brother: Unlocked will return for its second season. And hosts Taylor Hale and Derrick Levasseur are welcoming a famous face to sit alongside them to break down Season 28 the whole summer.
CBS announced today that Jerry O’Connell will be joining Unlocked as a permanent third co-host. The Stand By Me actor has had some very public ties to the hit reality show over the past couple of years. He appeared in a guest capacity for one episode during its debut season back in 2025. And in 2024, he made history, serving as a last-minute fill-in host for Julie Chen Moonves when she contracted COVID. It marked the first and, to this point, only time in Big Brother history when the veteran emcee was not in attendance for an eviction.
"Big Brother is my summer and rolls into my fall too. I’m already watching on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, so the fact that CBS is now paying me to do it is kind of amazing,” says O’Connell in a statement. "It’s an absolute honor to sit next to Derrick — ‘Champ,’ as I call him — and Taylor, who is my all-time favorite Big Brother winner (sorry, Jag). This is what we call in showbiz a dream gig. I’ll do my best to be the voice of the fans, but as Julie says, expect the unexpected. And most importantly, remember to love one another. I’m soooo excited to join the Big Brother fam!"
Related: Jerry O'Connell Calls Filling in as 'Big Brother' Host 'The Scariest Night of My Life'
CBS debuted Big Brother: Unlocked during Season 27, serving as the show’s first-ever broadcast companion show. Led by Levasseur and Hale, who won Seasons 16 and 24, respectively, the series welcomed a wide variety of alumni and celebrities alike, including O’Connell, James Gunn, Lance Bass, Boston Rob Mariano and Bobby Moynihan. This year, Unlocked will feature breakdowns of the house's happenings from the panel, as well as inside-the-house footage, behind-the-scenes access, extended interviews, at-home packages and even an end-of-season awards show.
New to Unlocked this season, the show will take a page out of the flagship's book, welcoming in a live studio audience for each episode's taping. Additionally, CBS teases that the first episode "launches a new interactive fan vote that will have a major impact on the game."
Big Brother 28 premieres with a special 90-minute episode on Thursday, July 9 at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on CBS. The first episode of Big Brother: Unlocked, featuring Hale, Levasseur, and O'Connell, will subsequently air on Friday, July 10 at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT. Season 28 is touted as the "biggest season ever," sporting the most hours of programming in the show's history. Big Brother will also hit its milestone 1000th episode during the season.
Related: Will 'Big Brother 28' Have Returning Players? The Case For and Against
1977 Rock Song, Lasting Nearly 11 Minutes, Remains a Classic 49 Years Later
Nearly 11 minutes was an unlikely length for a rock song in 1977.
Yet that didn't stop Television from opening the door to one of the most influential recordings of the decade. Released as the title track of the band's landmark debut album, "Marquee Moon" defied conventional radio formulas with its sprawling structure, intricate guitar interplay and hypnotic atmosphere, becoming a defining statement for New York's burgeoning punk and art rock scenes.
The song showcased a very different vision of punk.
While many of the era's emerging bands favored short, aggressive blasts of energy, Television took another approach. Fronted by Tom Verlaine, the group combined poetic songwriting with extended instrumental passages, allowing Verlaine and guitarist Richard Lloyd to weave together one of rock’s most celebrated twin-guitar performances.
"I saw him play, and I knew he had 'it,'" Lloyd told Consequence of his first meeting with Verlaine who died in 2023. "He had something, but he was missing something, and what he was missing I had. I was also missing something. What I was missing, he had. I knew if you put the two of us together, you’d have history. I knew that immediately."
The result felt equally indebted to garage rock, jazz improvisation and avant-garde experimentation.
"When Andy Johns began recording us, I suggested that I could double my parts," Lloyd wrote on his website. "I got this idea from both the Phil Spector productions and also from the Beatles. I thought that this doubling of certain of my rhythm parts and of my lead solos would lend some additional credibility and phenomena to the record. Andy was quite surprised that I had this skill, and Tom enjoyed the subtle chorusing, which was much more pleasant than any kind of chorus effect. We used no effects whatsoever on Marquee Moon—just guitars into amplifiers."
"Marquee Moon" quickly became the centerpiece of the band's identity.
Although it never became a chart hit, the nearly 11-minute composition earned widespread acclaim from critics and fellow musicians, with many praising its adventurous musicianship and refusal to follow commercial expectations. The song helped establish Marquee Moon as one of the greatest debut albums in rock history and cemented Television's reputation as one of the most innovative bands to emerge from New York’s CBGB scene.
Its influence only grew over time.
Artists across alternative rock, indie rock, post-punk and guitar-driven music have cited Television as a formative influence, with "Marquee Moon" serving as perhaps the band's clearest artistic statement. Its intricate guitar work, dynamic pacing and atmospheric production helped shape generations of musicians looking beyond traditional rock structures without sacrificing melody or emotion.
"It's like a mini-symphony," Lloyd told Songfacts. "Towards the end of the song, Tom gets a long solo, and he would often meander through parts of it, but we had it structured."
Following Television's initial breakup in 1978, Verlaine enjoyed a respected solo career before reuniting the band for new music and tours in later decades. Although the group's catalog remained relatively small, Marquee Moon and its towering title track continued to grow in stature, frequently appearing on lists of the greatest rock albums and songs ever recorded.
Nearly 50 years after its release, "Marquee Moon" remains a singular achievement. Its ambitious scope and fearless musicianship proved that rock music could be both intellectually adventurous and emotionally compelling, ensuring Television's masterpiece continues to inspire listeners nearly five decades later.
Related: 1977 Rock Song, Reimagined 27 Years Later, Became a Road Trip Anthem
Costco's 15-Piece Steel Knife Set Is Sleek, Durable and Makes Cutting Food Effortless
Every home cook knows that preparing a great meal starts long before the food ever reaches the stove. It begins with having the right tools. You can have the freshest ingredients and the perfect recipe, but if you're working with dull knives or cookware that doesn't perform well, the entire cooking experience becomes frustrating.
I've learned that firsthand. One of my biggest pet peeves in the kitchen is using knives that struggle to slice through something as simple as an onion or tomato. Instead of making meal prep quick and enjoyable, it turns into a chore. The same goes for using the wrong pots and pans. Trying to force the wrong cookware to do a job it wasn't designed for usually leads to uneven cooking, unnecessary cleanup and a lot of wasted time.
😋😋SIGN UP to get delicious recipes, handy kitchen hacks & more in our daily Pop Kitchen newsletter🍳🍔
That's why I've come to appreciate investing in quality kitchen essentials. Having dependable tools doesn't just make cooking easier; it makes the entire experience more enjoyable and gives you confidence every time you step into the kitchen.
Viking 15-Piece German Steel Knife Block Set, $152.99 at CostcoCostco
One item that has completely changed the way I prepare meals is the Viking 15-Piece German Steel Knife Block Set. From the moment you pick one up, you can immediately tell these aren't your average kitchen knives. They're solid, well-balanced and incredibly sharp, making everything from slicing vegetables to trimming meats feel effortless.
Whether you're chopping herbs, dicing onions or carving a roast, these knives deliver the kind of precision that makes prep work faster and more enjoyable. Instead of fighting with dull blades that crush ingredients, every cut feels clean and controlled. It's the type of experience you'd expect in a professional restaurant kitchen.
The set includes a variety of knives designed for different cooking tasks, so you're always reaching for the right tool instead of trying to make one knife do everything. That versatility alone makes a noticeable difference during meal prep.
Quality is another area where this set stands out. Each knife is crafted from durable German steel that's built to maintain its edge and withstand years of regular use. The knives are neatly housed in an attractive rubberwood storage block that keeps everything organized and within easy reach while adding a polished look to your countertop.
Since adding this knife set to my kitchen, I've actually found myself looking forward to cooking more often. Meal prep is quicker, cutting feels safer because the blades do exactly what they're supposed to do, and the entire process is more enjoyable.
If you're serious about cooking at home, having the right knives isn't a luxury; it's one of the smartest investments you can make. The Viking 15-Piece German Steel Knife Block Set proves that quality tools really do make a difference, helping turn everyday meal prep into a smoother, more professional cooking experience.
Related: This Textured Throw Pillow From World Market Brings a High-End Look for Less
Kate Middleton Hiking Video Fuels Wild Conspiracy With a Bizarre Camera Illusion
The digital court of public opinion has turned its lens back on the Princess of Wales, sparking a fierce debate that crosses the line from royal observation into medical speculation.
Following her recent appearance tackling the grueling Three Peaks Challenge, internet forums ignited over video of Kate Middleton, with some onlookers drawing jarring, historical comparisons to singer Karen Carpenter, who died of complications from anorexia in 1983.
The online chatter began on Reddit, where users analyzed high-resolution photographs of the princess in her hiking gear.
"What is really going on with Kate?" one user wrote, pointing specifically to her legs. "This isn't normal." The sentiment quickly spiraled, prompting a defender to warn against the dangers of public scrutiny, noting that Royal family figures like Princess Diana struggled with documented eating disorders fueled by intense public pressure.
The speculation, however, may be a product of photography rather than pathology. A closer look at the widely circulated video reveals a classic photographic anomaly. During the hike, the princess utilized carbon-fiber trekking poles. In the primary video causing concern, the black shaft of the walking stick perfectly aligns with the outer edge of her left leg, cutting off the silhouette and creating a severe optical illusion that slims the thigh by half to the casual viewer.
@thetelegraphThe Princess of Wales has completed the Three Peaks Challenge to highlight the “deeper impact of serious illness”. The solo endeavour was considered something of a “pilgrimage” for the Princess, who stood to chat to other walkers along the route. Head to the linked story for Kate's full itinerary 🔗 #katemiddleton #bennevis #kate
♬ original sound - The Telegraph - The Telegraph"There are slight optical illusions in the first pic because of the placement of her walking stick," another forum user noted after the initial wave of panic. "She is skinny, but once my eyes adjusted for the walking stick illusions, her thighs look a bit healthier."
Observers who watched the actual broadcast footage of the event, rather than compressed social media still frames, noted a sharp contrast in her demeanor. For a princess who has spent the last two years navigating a highly publicized, exhausting health journey, the video footage showed a woman moving with genuine agility and energy.
The incident highlights a recurring cycle for women in the royal spotlight, where a single pixel or a misplaced shadow can trigger global alarm. For now, the palace has issued no statement, letting the video footage of a smiling, active princess on a mountainside speak for itself.
Oprah Winfrey and Jenna Bush Hager Agree These Are the 'Books That Got Away' From Their Clubs
Both Jenna Bush Hager and Oprah Winfreyhave the same thoughts about two titles that didn't make it into their respective book clubs.
In a video shared by Oprah's Book Club on Instagram recently, the two TV personalities got to talking about books that simply weren't included in both Winfrey's book club and Hager's Read With Jenna.
View this post on Instagram"Let’s hold a moment of silence for all the book club picks that got away," read the video's caption. @oprah and @readwithjenna read a lot (and we mean a lot) of books, and the journey to select a book club pick doesn’t always pan out. No matter the outcome, all that matters is the love that’s shared for reading."
"The ones that got away are the same for both of us!" Hager said in the video ahead of revealing the two books they both feel like their clubs missed out on.
Of the titles that weren't selected, but still raved about, were The Correspondent by Virginia Evans and Theo of Golden by Allen Levy.
Related: Amazon Just Named This Oprah's Book Club Pick Its Best Book of 2026 So Far
As for The Corespondent, Winfrey, said, "Everybody's reading it," and for Theo of Golden, she said, "Could you believe that ending? I still think about him going to that coffee shop, and I think about all the pictures on the wall."
"Both of those books are about like grace and forgiveness [and] forgiving ourselves," Hager said of the titles.
Logistically, the two also explained that the book clubs may have got their wires crossed when it came to both titles.
"When I don't get it, I think you got it," Winfrey explained.
To which Hager replied, "I didn't get it. Neither one of us got those."
However, despite having book clubs that can boost sales and popularity of a title, the two agreed that both The Correspondent and Theo of Golden clearly didn't need the extra publicity of two high-profile readers.
"They were just out there, they did it on their own, don't you love it when that happens?" Winfrey said.
And she's not wrong — The Correspondent has a 4.46 star rating on Goodreads and Theo of Golden has a 4.48 out of five.
🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬
New York Times Praises 'Enchanting, Sinister' New Novel 'The Children' From Best-Selling Fantasy Author Melissa Albert
Best-selling author Melissa Albert might be more readily known for her contributions to the field of young adult fiction, as seen through her spellbinding past work on The Hazel Wood, The Night Country and Tales from the Hinterland.
As successful as Albert's previous YA projects have been, the critically acclaimed author has won some significant attention for her first foray into adult literature, as seen through the positive response to the writer's new novel, The Children.
Blending elements of fantasy, horror, mystery and magical realism, The Children follows a pair of adult siblings who confront their enigmatic past as they each work on individual artistic projects that alludes to their complicated childhood.
Released in bookstores across the nation earlier this June, The Children went on to garner a significantly positive response from critics and mainstream readers, with The New York Timeslisting the novel as one of the best fantasy books of the summer.
"It’s a common misconception that children’s books are all full of sunshine, rainbows and cozy things happening to kind people," wrote the newspaper. "As Albert points out in her enchantingly sinister adult debut, many books for young people are “crueler, stranger, more haunted by longing and loss” than grown-ups recall. In The Children, the making of those books is a dark endeavor too."
"The Children” is billed as a Gothic fantasy; I would call it more of a Gothic thriller, with a frisson of magic, that flits between the siblings’ childhood and the run-up to Ennis’s show," the NY Times continued. "While the chapters in the present start to drag the closer they edge to 'Mother,' the scenes from Guin’s past are bewitching, the Farmhouse pulling everyone under its spell as hauntingly as any dwelling Shirley Jackson ever dreamed up. The book will leave you questioning what you would give to create something truly wondrous."
Similarly, The Guardian shared some glowing feedback to Albert's new novel, likening it to a modern fairy tale with a dark, realistic atmosphere behind it.
"One of the pleasures of The Children is that you’re quite some way through it before you figure out what, exactly, it is," the outlet opined. "Is it a psychological drama, a haunted house story, or a dark fairytale?
1971 Rock Classic, Written in 20 Minutes, Became a Soft Rock Anthem
Paul Williams was well-known in the 1970s for having written more than a handful of soft rock classics. For the rock band Three Dog Night, Williams created "An Old Fashioned Love Song," which was originally written for another famous music duo.
Three Dog Night has already released hit tracks written by other songwriters like Harry Nilsson's "One" and Randy Newman's "Mama Told Me Not to Come." Williams' song would end up becoming one of their biggest hits, which landed them at No.4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and No.1 on the Adult Contemporary chart. Before being released by the band, "An Old Fashioned Love Song" was initially created for the Carpenters.
According to the Tennessean, Williams thought the song was a perfect fit for the music duo and was "money in the bank for them." When it landed in front of Richard Carpenter, things didn't go well, and " Richard Carpenter, I don't think made it through the first verse before he picked up the needle off of the (acetate). Richard didn't love it."
Williams added that Chuck Kaye, the head of A&M Records, heard the song and sent it to the producer of Three Dog Night. The songwriter admits that a majority of the tracks he did with the band "started off with them not loving it and the producer loving it."
When it comes to the song's inspiration, it happened when Williams was going on a date and got good news just minutes before. He was going to dinner with another songwriter named Patti Dhalstrom and was picking her up after leaving his office.
"I found out as I was leaving my office that I had a hit with another song. So as I walked into her living room, I said, 'Well, kid did it again with another old-fashioned love song.' And a light bulb appeared in the air right above my head. I went, 'Wait a minute! That must mean I've got a great idea.' So I sat at her piano. It's the quickest song that I've ever written in my life, and people have said, "Yeah, we can tell." It just poured out of me. It's really simple, just a couple of verses, and I go to a major (key) in the choruses," he said.
"An Old Fashioned Love Song" would end up becoming a soft rock anthem, and later covered by Williams himself in 1971. He would also perform the track on The Muppet Show and later in The Odd Couple. The track has been covered by various artists, even Andy Williams in 1972.
Related: 1976 Yacht Rock Ballad, Disliked by Band Members, Became a Soft Rock Classic About Love