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It's one of the most iconic opening scenes in movie history: Star-Lord (Chris Pratt) dancing around to the '70s smash hit, "Come and Get Your Love," in the beginning of Guardians of the Galaxy. Who can blame the Marvel hero for getting his groove on? It's hard to think of a tune with more of a feel-good vibe, which is probably why it shot to #5 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1974 — making the best kind of history in the process.

The dance rock band Redbone released "Come and Get Your Love" on their fifth studio album, Wokova, in 1973. Redbone was founded by brothers Pat and Lolly Vegas, who were of Native American heritage, and worked as session musicians for years before finding success with their own music. When the siblings started Redbone, they made the decision to include all Native and Mexican American players; they also chose to grow their hair long and wear Native dress on stage.

"Come and Get Your Love" was the first song by an all-Native and Mexican American band to ever crack the Billboard Top 10.

"My mom was proud of her Native American roots, and I was too," Pat Vegas told NPR's Elizabeth Blair. "So automatically, we knew what we wanted, and the sound came out that way, and it was beautiful. I just wanted to be real."

According to Vegas, he and his brother wrote "Come and Get Your Love" late one night while touring in Philadelphia. By the next day, the song was finished. (Apparently Lolly took sole songwriting credit, which was a point of contention between the siblings for years, but they eventually "got over it.")

'Come and Get Your Love' isn't actually about romance

Most people assume "Come and Get Your Love" is a love song of sorts, based on the title and the lyrics:

"Hey (hey) what's the matter with your head, yeah / Hey (hey) what's the matter with your mind and your sign and oh / Hey (hey) nothin' the matter with your head / Baby, find it, come on and find it / Bear with it, baby, 'cause you're fine / And you're mine, and you look so divine"

But while the song is about love, technically, it's probably not what you're thinking.

"It's love all around, in every facet and every part of your being, you know?" Vegas explained. "And that's the message: What's the matter with your mind and your sign? Come and get your love. In other words, where you come from and who you are doesn't matter as much as what you believe, and what you feel."

Related: 1974 Disco Anthem Was a Total Flop Before It Made History as a No. 1 Hit

As I've gotten older, one thing I've started paying way more attention to is how a space actually feels. Not just how it looks for pictures or social media, but the real energy of a room once you sit down, slow down and spend time in it. I used to think bigger furniture or expensive decor pieces were what made a home feel complete, but honestly, lighting changes everything. The wrong lighting can make a beautiful room feel cold, while the right lighting can make even the simplest setup feel comforting.

That's why I've become obsessed with softer lighting lately, especially during the evening. There's something about walking into a room with a warm glow instead of harsh overhead lights that instantly changes your mood. It feels calmer. More inviting. More lived in. It reminds me of those moments during the holidays growing up, where the house just felt peaceful once the lamps and decorative lights came on at night. That kind of atmosphere sticks with you.

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Evergreen LED Porcelain Lantern Set, $39.99 at Costco

Costco

The Evergreen LED Porcelain Lantern set from Costco instantly gave me that feeling. At $39.99 for the set, these handmade porcelain lanterns honestly feel like one of those home finds you randomly pick up and then wonder how your space existed without them before. The soft, warm white LED light gives off this cozy, relaxing glow that doesn't feel overly bright or artificial. It feels intentional.

What I really like is how versatile they are. You can place them on a kitchen counter, bookshelf, dining table or even near an entryway, and they immediately make the space feel warmer. Even during the daytime, the porcelain design still looks clean and elevated without screaming for attention. Then once the lights come on at night, the entire vibe changes. It's subtle but noticeable in the best way possible.

Related: Hobby Lobby Shoppers Are Loving This Chic Accent Cabinet That's Perfect for Small Spaces

The handcrafted porcelain also makes them feel more personal than many modern decor pieces, which often feel mass-produced or overly trendy. These have a softer, almost timeless look. They don't try too hard, and I think that's why they work so well. They blend into the room naturally rather than feeling staged.

One feature I didn't expect to appreciate as much as I do is the touch button timer. The six-hour-on, 18-hour-off setting makes life easier because once they're set up, you can just let them do their thing every evening. That's the kind of convenience I've started valuing more lately, especially with home products. I want things that add comfort without adding extra work.

I also like that they can work outdoors under covered spaces because I immediately started imagining these on a patio table during a cool evening or next to outdoor seating while grilling with family. That warm glow creates an environment where people actually want to stay awhile and talk.

Sometimes the smallest details in a home make the biggest difference. These lanterns aren't loud or flashy, but they completely change the feeling of a room, and honestly, that's what good home decor is supposed to do.

Related: This Best-Selling Outdoor Chair at IKEA Is Back—and It Might Be the Most Comfortable Seat on Your Patio

Over two decades ago, Britney Spears made her Saturday Night Live debut, but the Princess of Pop not only delivered a jaw-dropping appearance, she also had a record-breaking moment.

At the height of the music icon’s Y2K pop superstardom, she appeared on the 19th episode of the long-running show’s season 25 as a musical guest and host.

On May 13, 2000, Spears performed her hit single “Oops, I Did It Again” in a vibrant corset crop top with a pink-and-purple tie-dye design paired with matching low-rise flared pants, which was her signature style.

As for her second song, she sang another timeless track, "Don't Let Me Be the Last to Know,” and stunned viewers in her black tube top paired with low-rise shiny pants.

Britney Spears poses at a photocall in Paris,France on the 5th of August 2000.

Dave Hogan/Getty Images

At 18, the award-winning singer’s appearance not only drew massive viewership but also made history as the youngest person to pull "double duty" in a single episode.

Deion Sanders broke the record as the then-27-year-old who appeared as a guest and host on SNL on February 18, 1995, where he performed his hit track "Must Be The Money" and "It's On."

Britney Spears Turned Controversy Into Comedy During a Memorable SNL Appearance

During the peak of her career, the pop star’s stardom was hounded by controversies and accusations but she found a way to address the issue in a playful way.

Spears showcased her comedic timing by not only fully embracing the sketch but also using the moment to cleverly clear up the rumors by poking fun at the lip-syncing and breast implant accusations.

The singer began her monologue by defending herself in a lighthearted manner.

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“This is a perfect place for me to clear up some crazy, crazy rumors I kept hearing about myself, like that I can’t perform without lip-syncing, which is not true. See, when I went to the Grammy Awards and sang 'Baby One More Time'... I sang all the lead vocals live. It wasn't on tape,” she said, but as she delivered the line about the award ceremony, her voice was replaced by a mismatched pre-recorded voiceover while completely pretending to speak with a straight face.

Moreover, she also brought up the accusation about going under the knife, noting, "The one about my boobs being fake—that is just ridiculous! I mean, come on, I’m 18 and I’m still growing, you know?"

Following her appearance that caused a significant spike in TV ratings, Spears made three more guest spots, one in 2002 to promote her movie Crossroads and the last two in 2003.

Related: ’70s Icon Became the First ‘SNL’ Musical Guest to Break Tradition 50 Years Ago

The endgame of Survivor 50 has officially arrived. There's only a week left in the game, and a spot in the Final Three and a chance at the $2 million prize is everyone's primary focus. Now becomes the question of not only who you can work with to get you further, but who you don't want to sit next to in the end. And so, over the course of two madcap votes, we saw alliances fall apart and new threats emerge, leading to the final bow of two of the unqeuestionable stars of the season.

Here's our spoiler-filled recap of tonight's episode of Survivor 50, including who went home.

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Who got voted off on Survivor 50 tonight? Rick Devens on 'Survivor 50'

Robert Voets/CBS

Rick Devens

The way Rick Devens describes it, in a different world, he wouldn't have been on Survivor 50 in the first place. So, when he was picked to be a part of the landmark season, it was with a clear head, feeling he was just grateful for the opportunity to get to play again. That didn't mean he didn't have his eyes on the prize, though. In fact, Rick spent the first half of his game staving away his worst temptations, choosing to instead let down his walls and build relationships instead of going mad with idols and Tribal Council shenanigans.

That changed, however, in the course of one night. Feeling the heat, Rick reached into the fire and the flames (literally), procuring a fake idol he had hidden there weeks ago. While he survived the night, suddenly he found himself a familiar position: Public enemy number one. But, if anything, being on the bottom made him even more eager to take big swings. And he took arguably the biggest of the season when he took up the offer to flip a coin and face the possibility of instant elimination. In one of the highlights of the season, a single risk with a coin added quite the amount of coin to the prize fund. Unfortunately, Rick wouldn't be able to collect the money he had just earned. After using up his idols and not winning immunity, it was time for the newscaster to sign off. Some of his final words were, "I always feel lucky," indicative of not only his good fortune in the game, but also the gratitude he had with every step in the sand — or look up at the stars.

Cirie Fields on 'Survivor 50'

Robert Voets/CBS

Cirie Fields

Across 20 years, we have seen Cirie Fields play across five different Survivor seasons, last over two months in the Big Brother house, and single-handedly win The Traitors. But Survivor 50 may be the most impressive game she's every played. Cirie came in with far and away the biggest reputation, so much so that Jenna Lewis-Dougherty was targeting her from the jump. But it speaks volumes that she was the only one to vote for Cirie at that first Tribal Council, showcasing how, somehow, she yet again cemented herself at the center of her tribe.

Indeed, over the course of 23 days, we saw Cirie be able to wield an immense amount of power, despite the theoretical target that should be on her back. Every single person she played with at some point said they trusted her wholly. She quickly mended fences with her old rival, Ozzy Lusth. And, when he found himself in trouble for the majority of the postmerge, she put in work to keep him in the game, successfully turning the vote onto others. Unfortunately, as fun as it was to see "Cirie's Rizard of Oz" in practice, the polycule proved to be highly unstable.

Rizo didn't tip Ozzy off to play his idol, leading to his brutal blindside. And, after Tiffany Ervin won immunity, he turned things on Cirie, knowing she would easily win in a rout against anyone. Seeing the writing was on the wall, Cirie turned on the afterburners, spending the afternoon trying to convince the majority that Aubry Bracco was a traitor in their midst. But that skillful sequence didn't make up for the fact that she was far and away the biggest threat left in the game. And so, while she had her torch snuffed for perhaps the final time, she had nothing but gratitude for Jeff Probst and the show, saying, "I don’t even have the words to express how grateful and thankful I am for finding out there’s so much more to life fthan what I knew from sitting on my coach and watching TV."

Were any idols or advantages found or played on Survivor 50 tonight?

Yes! Knowing his goose was likely cooked, Rick played his Shot in the Dark (the last time it could be used in the game). Unfortunately, for the fourth time this season, the Shot didn't hit, setting up Rick's unanimous boot at the Final Seven.

Related: Meet the Full Cast of Survivor 50

The Fan Favorite Award returns — courtesy of Sia!

As Jeff Probst announced during a commercial break in this episode, there is one more fan vote happening this season. The "Fan Favorite" award is returning for the first time since Season 26, giving one lucky player $100,000 courtesy of a popular vote. And the prize is in honor of Sia, as the pop star has given over a million dollars to Survivor players over the years from her personal account. The winner will be announced at next week's live finale and reunion.

Related: ‘Survivor 50’ is Bringing Back Fan Favorite Prize Thanks to Sia — Here’s How to Vote

Who is left in the game on Survivor 50?Aubry BraccoJoseph "Joe" HunterJonathan YoungRizo VelovicTiffany Ervin

Related: Ozzy Lusth Reveals the Real Reason He Didn't Play His Idol on 'Survivor 50' (Exclusive)

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The prettiest outdoor spaces usually have ambient lighting, and the right glow can change the whole mood once the sun goes down. If you’ve been looking to spruce up your outdoor space for nighttime hangs, the Cocobela Butterfly Solar Lanterns Set is now on sale for just $22 at Walmart, down from $30. It comes with two hanging solar lanterns that cast gorgeous butterfly-shaped shadows at night.

Each lantern has an LED light, a solar panel, and a built-in rechargeable battery, so there are no cords to hide or outlet situations to figure out. The set features anti-rust treatment and is waterproof for outdoor use. There are two light modes, amber and white, with amber being the softer option and white providing a brighter look. After six to eight hours in the sun, the lanterns are designed to turn on automatically in the dark and stay lit for eight to 10 hours.

Cocobela Butterfly Solar Lanterns Set, $22 (was $30) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

The butterfly cutouts give the lanterns a whimsical look during the day, but the real payoff comes at night when the patterns are projected on the ground around them. A plain solar light can easily brighten a path, but these little lanterns add a unique pattern to the space, too. 

Shoppers have called the lanterns “absolutely stunning,”and “very pretty at night.” “The butterfly patterns cast beautiful shadows, creating a magical ambiance,” one person wrote. Another reviewer called them "pretty solar lanterns that give a beautiful vibe to your outdoor garden, patio, etc,” noting they’re “super convenient to use." 

Related: Walmart's Solar Lanterns Are Whimsical, Cozy, and Turn Your Outdoor Space Into a Fairytale Garden

You could place these adorable lanterns anywhere you want to add some extra lighting, like the edge of a garden bed, a front walkway, or the corner by a patio chair. Since it comes with two, you can keep them together or split them between the front and back of the house. The blue finish also offers a subtle pop of color during the day, making them look decorative even before the lights turn on.

Shop More Deals

• Syenll Swaying Butterfly Solar Lights, $20 (was $30) at Walmart
• Syenll Solar Watering Can, $17 (was $30) at Walmart
• TopZoo Solar Garden Firefly Lights, $29 (was $47) at Walmart

If you’ve been trying to find an easy way to add light and a little whimsy to your space, these lanterns tick those boxes with practically zero effort since they turn on automatically after charging. And at just $22, now is the perfect time to add the Cocobela Butterfly Solar Lanterns Set to your cart before summer fully settles in.

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Swifties are still grieving the loss of the Eras Tour nearly two years after the 149-show concert tour came to an end in December of 2024, but today, fans are celebrating the three-year anniversary of one of Taylor Swift's most iconic Eras Tour moments—and it's one that heavily made the rounds online when it first happened.

On May 13, 2023, during her performance of her song "Bad Blood," Swift spotted a security guard reportedly in a dispute with a concert-goer. In the video, which has now been circulated innumerable times online, Swift's face can be seen changing when she realizes what is going on, and she then yells, "She's fine. She wasn't doing anything," while waving at the guard to back off.

When the incident continued, Swift yelled, "Hey, stop!" Then, in perhaps the most viral moment of the entire situation, Swift continued her performance of "Bad Blood," seamlessly incorporating one last "stop" into the lyrics before strutting away.

@kellyingliskelly28

Taylor’s got our backs🥹 How has it been 3 years already?! #taylorswift #swifttok #swiftie #erastour @Taylor Swift @Taylor Nation

♬ original sound - Kelly Kelly

When the situation took place in 2023, there was a huge response from Swifties, many of whom were expressing gratitude that Swift was paying attention to what was happening to fans while she was performing and that she was willing to intervene on her fans' behalf. Even with the video posted today in honor of the incident's anniversary, the comments are flooded with similar reactions.

One comment reads, "She protects the family," and another echoes, "And now we know it’s because she protects the family 🥰🥰." Yet another comment says, "Dare I say most iconic moment of the whole tour"—a sentiment that is shared by numerous others in the comments.

Many comments under that video are also some version of calling Swift "Mother," which was a trend long before she had this interaction with a security guard in 2023, and several are also confirming that this is now how they always sing "Bad Blood."

Swift hasn't been on tour since the Eras Tour concluded in 2024, which isn't a surprise given the sheer length and demands of that tour. However, in the time since the Eras Tour ended, she has released her most recent album, The Life of a Showgirl.

Even though it feels like something of a cliché to call Nick Drake's story a tragic one, it's hard to think of a more fitting term. How else to describe the tale of brilliantly talented, troubled musician whose life was cut short at the age of 26? Now acknowledged as one of the most influential and innovative musicians of all time, the most tragic thing about Drake might be that he considered himself to be a "failure" at the time of his death...when the decades since his passing in 1974 have proven the opposite to be true.

One of the ways that Drake's music has found fame in recent years has been through TV and movies, like Wes Anderson's Academy Award-nominated classic, The Royal Tenenbaums (2001). Ranked #21 on The New York Times' list of "The 100 Best Movies of the 21st Century," the movie tells the story of a man named Royal Tenenbaum (Gene Hackman) who goes to imaginative and questionable lengths to get his estranged family to give him a second chance. This theme made the song "Fly," from Drake's 1971 album Bryter Later, a perfect fit for the soundtrack:

"Please give me a second grace / Please give me a second face / I've fallen far down, the first time around / Now I just sit on the ground in your way"

In a review for Pitchfork, Rob Mitchum compared the soundtrack for The Royal Tenenbaums to that of Anderson's earlier film, Rushmore.

"Like the disillusioned characters of its cinematic parent, Tenenbaums' songs deal with the more adult issues of loneliness and dissatisfaction," Mitchum wrote. "Rather than the sexual frustration swagger of garage rock, the film's bittersweet melancholy is represented by the plaintive acoustic singer/songwriter and the lush, orchestrated chamber pop set piece...But nothing says desolation like stringed instruments playing in a minor key, and both Nick Drake and the Yseye Quartet are happy to provide."

Nick Drake's music experienced a huge surge in sales after a popular TV commercial

By the time The Royal Tenenbaums was released, Drake's music was already experiencing a surge in popularity, due in large part to a 1999 Volkswagen commercial featuring "Pink Moon."

As BBC Culture reported, after the VW ad, sales of the Pink Moon album soared, increasing almost 500% during the first 10 weeks of 2000. A year later, sales were up to over 74,000 copies a year (from around just 6,000).

According to Emeli Sandé, who covered "One Of These Things First" for the compilation album The Endless Coloured Ways, Drake's music continues to reach new listeners "because of the purity in the music and also the depth. His lyrics are poetry. I think they really are timeless. No matter how many times you go back and listen, you find something new in the music each time you do. Also there isn't really that much out there about his thoughts [on his lyrics], and that allows everyone to have their own interpretation."

Related: 1985 No. 1 Pop Rock Anthem Became the Breakout Hit of an Iconic Brat Pack Movie Soundtrack

Toto is one of the most legendary bands in music history, known for its polished mix of arena rock and pop hooks that made it one of the most enduring rock acts of the 1970s and 1980s. More than four decades after the release of its self-titled debut album, Toto, the band is still making headlines and earning recognition. The band’s debut single from its first album has now been ranked by Guitar Lobby among the top 35 classic rock songs of all time.

Why Toto’s “Hold the Line” Still Resonates With Rock Fans

“Hold the Line” is one of the defining rock anthems of the late 1970s. Released in 1978, the song remains one of Toto’s most recognizable hits. It's instantly recognizable piano intro, combined with Bobby Kimball’s powerhouse vocals and Steve Lukather’s masterful guitar work, helped “Hold the Line” become a major international hit and establish Toto as one of the biggest rock bands of the era.

Coming in at No. 29, Guitar Lobby writes of “Hold the Line”:

“Toto has a whole bunch of classic songs, including “Africa” and “Rosanna,” but this time, we have decided to include another song of theirs on the list: “Hold the Line.” “Hold the Line” was written by the band’s keyboardist, David Paich. The single-note percussive piano intro, followed by a massive stadium riff, is about as memorable of a combo as it can be.”

The outlet continues, “The song immediately became a chart-topping hit in several countries at the same time, including the US, Sweden, South Africa, Canada, and Australia.”

Related: Rock Legend’s Son, 53, Channels His Father in Emotional Live Performance: 'What a Voice'

Toto’s Classic Rock Ranking Beats Out Other Legendary Hits

The ranking is especially notable because Toto’s “Hold the Line” landed ahead of some of rock music’s most legendary tracks, including “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey and “Free Fallin’” by Tom Petty.

Also worth noting, Guitar Lobby’s list focused on songs with instantly recognizable melodies. Praising the song’s “massive stadium riff” and iconic piano opening, it’s no wonder “Hold the Line” ranked ahead of other chart-toppers, including “Wanted Dead or Alive” by Bon Jovi and “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor.

As a band, Toto is most associated with hits like “Africa,” but the band’s debut single is now firmly cemented in history as one of the greatest classic rock songs of all time.

Related: Legendary Rock Star, 67, Takes Fans Straight Back to the 1980s With Electrifying Performance

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Over the course of the first half of 2025, Survivorfans got the opportunity to vote on a wide variety of game elements to bring a brand-new interactive element. And Season 50 will be "in the hands of the fans" one last time, as CBS has announced the return of the popular vote for the fan favorite prize of the season. And it's only fitting, considering how many famous faces have shown up on Survivor 50, that the award come from perhaps the most notable celebrity affiliated with the show before this season: Sia.

As revealed during the airing of the penultimate episode of Season 50, courtesy of Jeff Probst. As the host and executive producer put it, "Since 2016, global pop star and Survivor superfan Sia has given away over a million dollars of her own money to
players who moved us with their gameplay. This season, she is turning that honor over to the fans, trusting you to celebrate the kind of player she always recognizes." The winner of the "Sia Fan Favorite Prize" will receive $100,000, as awarded during the live reunion (another vestige from past seasons making its return for Survivor 50).

Here's everything to know about the Survivor 50 "Sia Fan Favorite Prize," including how to vote.

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What is the Sia Fan Favorite Prize on Survivor?

Essentially, this is a revival of the fan favorite prize that used to be awarded to a cast member at the reunion during Seasons 12 to 26 of Survivor. After loosely taking on the mantle herself over the years, Sia is officially lending her name (and money) to the prize, awarding $100,000 to whichever of the 24 cast members wins the fan vote.

How to vote for the Survivor 50 Fan Favorite Prize

Fans can cast their vote for the Survivor 50 Fan Favorite prize by visiting http://survivor50cbs.votenow.tv/.

Related: Ozzy Lusth Reveals the Real Reason He Didn’t Play His Idol on ‘Survivor 50’ (Exclusive)

When does voting for the Survivor 50 Fan Favorite Prize end?

Voting for the Survivor 50 Fan Favorite Prize is currently open. It is set to close on Wednesday, May 20 (the day of the finale), at 3:00 p.m. ET/12:00 p.m. PT.

When will we find out the winner of the Survivor 50 Fan Favorite Prize?

The winner of the Survivor 50 Fan Favorite will be announced during the live three-hour finale and reunion, which is set to air on Wednesday, May 20 from 8:00-11:00 p.m. ET on CBS.

Related: ‘Survivor’ Host Jeff Probst Finally Reveals When Returning Players Will Be Back—and Fans Won’t Wait Long

Has Sia been on Survivor?

Technically, yes! A decade ago, during the finale of Survivor: Kaôh Rōng (which Season 50 contestant Aubry Bracco was present for), the pop star interrupted the reunion to storm the stage. It turned out she wasn't only a massive Survivor fan, she also had an immense soft spot in her heart for Tai Trang, particularly his seasonlong love of animals. She announced right then and there she was giving him $50,000, as well as promising a $50,000 donation to the animal shelter of his choice:

Since then, Sia has given money to select players in a handful of seasons. Additional players who have received the "Sia money" include:

• Donathan Hurley (Ghost Island)
• Davie Rickenbacker (David vs. Goliath)
• Rick Devens (Edge of Extinction)
• Aurora McCreary (Edge of Extinction)
• Joe Anglim (Edge of Extinction, donated to charity)
• Janet Carbin (Island of the Idols)
• Elaine Stott (Island of the Idols)
• Jamal Shipman (Island of the Idols)
• Drea Wheeler (42)
• Owen Knight (43)
• Jesse Lopez (43)
• Ryan Medrano (43)
• Carolyn Wiger (44)
• Carson Garrett (44)
• Lauren Harpe (44)
• Jake O'Kane (45)
• Katurah Topps (45)
• Kaleb Gebrewold (45)

Has Survivor had a fan favorite prize before?

Absolutely! The first fan favorite award was officially given in All-Stars back in 2004. Fans had the chance to award one of the cast members an additional million dollars as a part of "America's Tribal Council." Predictably, the prize went to Rupert Boneham, one of the most popular contestants in the show's history.

In Panama and Cook Islands, viewers could vote for their favorite player to win a car. Funnily enough, the people who won said cars are currently on Survivor 50 in Cirie Fields and Ozzy Lusth. And from China through Caramoan, the prize was rebranded to the "Sprint Player of the Season," with $100,000 (the same amount as what the runner-up earns) being awarded to whoever won the fan vote.

Related: Meet the Full Cast of 'Survivor 50': Photos, Bios and What to Know

The Chicago Med Season 11 finale left us with happy news: The healthy birth of Hannah (Jessy Schram) and Archer’s (Steven Weber) baby daughter. But it also had a bit of a cliffhanger, as Sharon Goodwin (S. Epatha Merkerson) is being forced out of her job by a board member and was told to turn in her resignation. Will she succumb, or will she fight? What will Season 12 look like?

“There will be conflict, there will be medical stories, there will be unrequited love,” Chicago Med showrunner Allen MacDonald exclusively tells Parade. “I always love when we pace up the show and I’m always interested in doing that, and I think that we have done that successfully, but I always want to push it a little more. I just think that dramatically we’re going to push even harder next year.”

With that tease, and more below, here’s what we know about Season 12 of Chicago Med:

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What is the release date for Chicago Med Season 12?

Chicago Med will premiere on Wednesday nights this fall on NBC.

What time will Chicago Med Season 12 be on?

When Chicago Med returns for its 12th season, it will be back on Wednesday nights at 8 p.m. ET/PT.

Who is in the cast of Chicago Med Season 11?S. Epatha Merkerson

Merkerson plays Sharon Goodwin, the chief administrator of Gaffney Chicago Medical Center

Oliver Platt

Platt plays Dr. Daniel Charles, chief of the psychiatry department, who almost lost his job and life last season, so he is happy to be back in the ED.

Steven Weber 

Weber plays Dr. Dean Archer, the former head of the ED (Emergency Department), and a new father.

Jessy Schram 

Schram plays Dr. Hannah Asher, a Board-Certified Obstetrician-Gynecologist and recovering addict, who just gave birth to a baby girl Mabel with Dean Archer.

Luke Mitchell

Mitchell plays Dr. Mitch Ripley, an attending physician in the Emergency Department, who is in a romance with Dr. Caitlin Lenox.

Sarah Ramos

Ramos plays Dr. Caitlin Lenox, the head of the ED, who learned last season that she had the gene for the rare, fatal, genetic prion disease that killed her mother.

Darren Barnet

Barnet plays Dr. John Frost, a pediatric resident who had a difficult year dealing with the return of abuse memories from his childhood and the death of his father, who he felt didn't protect him.

Ashlei Sharpe Chestnut as Dr. Naomi Howard

It looked as if Dr. Howard, a resident in the ED, was leaving Gafney, but she returned and is involved in a love story with Dr. Frost.

Related: One Chicago Crossover: Who Plays FBI Agent Nathan Conway? Here’s Why the ’90s Star Looks So Familiar

Who is leaving Chicago Med for Season 12?

So far, we know that Dr. Theo Rabari (Manish Dayal) left Gafney after it was revealed that he was diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder (sociopathy). Dr. Charles wasn’t going to reveal the diagnosis, and he told Theo that, but Theo withdrew his application for Dr. Charles’ job anyway.

What happened at the end of Chicago Med Season 11?

The Season 11 finale was jam-packed.

The hospital was on lockdown when a prisoner who was being treated for a leg wound escaped and overpowered one of the security guards and took his gun. He took Dean Weber hostage but later was captured.

Because the hospital was on lockdown and another obstetrician couldn’t get in, Hannah had to deliver a baby while she was undergoing contractions for the birth of her own daughter. Also, because he was a hostage, Dean was late getting to the birth, but he made it just in time. Both babies were delivered safely.

The medication for the trial that Frost’s father was on stopped working, and as he was on his deathbed, he asked Frost to forgive him, which he did. Frost later told his mother that he didn’t realize that he still loved his father despite everything his father had done.

Mitch Ripley, knowing that Caitlin Lenox tested positive for the prion gene, told Caitlin that he’d rather have one more day with her than a lifetime with someone else. He loves her.

Daniel’s job was saved when Theo quit, but in a twist, Miranda, the board member who was trying to out Daniel and get Theo in, told Sharon Goodwin she had until the end of the day to turn in her resignation because Miranda believes that Sharon broke HIPAA and released Theo’s medical diagnosis that he has antisocial personality disorder (sociopathy).

Related: Chicago Med’s Dr. Charles’s Life Is on the Line When He Undergoes Surgery for a Stroke (Exclusive)

Are there any spoilers for Chicago Med Season 12?

Here’s more from our chat with MacDonald and also a few tidbits from Jessy Schram.

Sharon Goodwin

“She is going to have to fight for her job now,” MacDonald shares. “Sharon is a very empathetic, kind, caring person, but you also don’t want to mess with her. Sharon means what she says at the end, ‘If you want a fight, that’s what you’re going to get,’ and that is the intention moving into next season.”

John Frost on his mental health after forgiving his father

“There’s a weight lifted off his shoulders,” MacDonald says. “I think the past has always been something he’s run away from, that he thought he didn’t need to deal with it but it was actually weighing him down more because he wasn’t. We’ve spent the last two seasons with him slowly confronting the past and growing from the processing of it, and now I believe next season he’s going to move on. There will be other challenges next season for Dr. John Frost, but as far as the past and Nick of Time and Ainsley, those are things we’ll always make reference to, but I feel like we’re closing the book on that, on the past, and now he’s going to move forward.”

Hannah Asher on motherhood

“Hopefully a good [mother],” Schram says. “I think that there’ll be many elements that could be played. Her sister was kind of her mother figure in her life, so I think that she has a lot of desires, and probably a lot of pressure she’s put on herself to be a perfect mom, whatever that looks like, and, obviously, will still be working full time. So, I think that there’s a lot of pressures and a lot of things that she knows in her heart how she wants to be, and probably a lot of expectations that she has on herself.

“I imagine Dean to be more the one that’s going to give the baby everything and Hannah’s going to have to put the hammer down. I definitely see that being the dynamic with this coparenting element or within the relationship, but I think that she probably will be very scared but also naturally really take it on. I think that Hannah has always yearned to have that belonging, to not be alone, because she’s been alone for a while and still to a certain degree up until her dad returned, she’s been alone. So, Mabel’s her family, and I think that naturally she’s going to have a place to pour all the love and all the connection that she’s always wanted to have, but maybe she didn’t trust herself enough to have because of her past."

Mitch Ripley/Caitlin Lenox on entering the prion trial

“I do think that’s possible, yes,” MacDonald says. “I think that this disclosure between them at the end of the season, she will have a more positive attitude moving into next season and will be wanting to embrace life in a healthier way. She thought she was embracing life this season, but she was really being self-destructive.”

Hannah on being a surrogate for Lizzie

“We have a positive outcome of a delivery and a baby that’s healthy, and really to be honest, her own delivery was very uneventful other than Dean being a little late,” Schram says. “It was the pre-labor that was very eventful while in it, but it was healthy and it was the best case scenario of what she could have had, there were no complications. So, it could alter the way she thinks of it, but I think going through this process obviously makes her grow and makes life feel a little bit different. So yeah, I’d be really curious if she would be open to the idea of being a surrogate, especially so quickly after giving birth to Mabel, so we’ll see.”

And MacDonald adds, “I think that’s a fantastic question because the one hanging chad in Hannah’s life is her sister Lizzy. We even brought Lizzy back for an episode this season but we cut her out because of time, but also because it was a scene between her and Archer actually, it wasn’t with Hannah. The reason we cut it out, or I cut it out, was because I felt like we were playing a vibe that we had already seen before with Hannah, and that the next time we see Lizzy I want it to feel different. We definitely intend to delve back into that story next season, and we love Erin Anderson who play Lizzy."

Related: Marina Squerciati Issues Statement as Fate of One Chicago Shows Revealed

Is there a trailer for Chicago Med Season 12?

An official trailer for Chicago Med Season 12 has yet to be released but check back here. We will post as soon as it’s available.

How to watch Chicago Med

Chicago Med airs Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC. Viewers can stream episodes the following day on Peacock.

Where to watch and live stream Chicago Med online

All 11 seasons of Chicago Med are available on streaming service Peacock. Previous seasons are also available on Amazon Prime and IMDBTV.

How many seasons of Chicago Med are there?

Chicago Med premiered on Nov. 17, 2015. There have been 11 seasons of the NBC hit series. The upcoming season will make 12.

Next, Is Your Favorite Show Coming Back or Canceled? See Our Fall TV 2026–2027 Guide

Twenty home cooks who won their white aprons during the audition rounds – five from each of the four regions – Europe, Africa, Asia-Pacific and the Americas, face off in a MasterChef: Global Gauntlet World Cup-inspired challenge to create elevated versions of classic stadium foods infused with their own cultural flair.

Judges Gordon Ramsay, Joe Bastianich and Tiffany Derry then selected the winner of the first night of the tournament, who received the first Immunity Pin of the season and kept their team safe from elimination. The winner takes home the MasterChef trophy, but also $250,000.

Here's our spoiler-filled recap of who went home on MasterChef tonight.

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Who went home on MasterChef tonight?

Nora Chakri
Representing: Morocco
Current Residence: Las Vegas, NV

Advancing contestants tonight on MasterChef: Global GauntletTEAM EUROPE

Nico Cosereanu
Representing: Italy
Current Residence: Millburn, NJ

Aghata Sunsi
Representing: Spain
Current Residence: Westminster, CO

Basia Newman
Representing: Poland
Current Residence: Asbury Park, NJ

Ted Pappas
Representing: Greece
Current Residence: Chicago, IL

Julia Cili
Representing: Italy
Current Residence: Miami, FL

TEAM ASIA-PACIFIC

Foo Nguyen
Representing: Vietnam
Current Residence: Irvine, CA

Aishu Challa
Representing: India
Current Residence: Georgetown, MA

Daniel Meng
Representing: China
Current Residence: Duluth, GA

Shompa Kabir-Furqan
Representing: Bangladesh
Current Residence: Brooklyn, NY

Jaime Tan
Representing: Malaysia
Current Residence: Los Angeles, CA

TEAM AFRICA

Peter Egede
Representing: Nigeria
Current Residence: Dallas, TX

Dave Patera
Representing: Morocco
Current Residence: Chicago, IL

Rita Igbinoba
Representing: Nigeria
Current Residence: Brooklyn, NY

Heidi Muston
Representing: South Africa
Current Residence: Plantation, FL

TEAM AMERICAS

Camilo Chavez III
Representing: Mexico
Current Residence: Bastrop, TX

Tkaiya Dryden
Representing: Jamaica
Current Residence: Jamaica Queens, NY

Jake Kelley
Representing: Mexico
Current Residence: Mount Pleasant, MI

Britny Underwood
Representing: Barbados
Current Residence: North Hollywood, CA

Maria Bourland
Representing: Brazil
Current Residence: Miami Beach, FL

Related: MasterChef’s Tiffany Derry Reveals the Biggest Mistake Contestants Keep Making (Exclusive)

Who won the challenge on MasterChef tonight?

The first challenge of the season was to cook elevated versions of stadium food but it has to reflect their culture.

The best dishes were:

Asia-Pacific: Aishu – South Indian Potato Bonda
Europe: Aghata – Spanish Potato Tortilla
Africa: Peter – Yaji-Spiced Chicken Tenders
Americas: Tkaiya – Jamaican Beef Patty

The winner of the Immunity Pin for best dish was cooked by Aishu.

“I am so happy. I am so excited to get to represent India and get to be the first to win the Immunity Pin,” Aishu said. “There are some talented people here but I’m hoping that people are starting to see me more as a competitor and taking me more seriously.

Who was in the MasterChef Gauntlet bottom three this week?

The three worst dishes were:

Europe: Julia – Loaded Crispy Polenta Fries
Americas: Jake – Filet Mignon Deconstructed Taco
Africa: Nora – Haddock & Maakouda Sandwich

The home cook leaving MasterChef was Nora, who presented her dish with a Band-Aid on it. She cut herself while cooking and lost the first bandage, and she had no idea where it went, but it ended up in her sandwich.

“I don’t feel good, obviously, but it’s fair,” Nora said. “I served a bandage to Gordon Ramsay. What do I expect? Beyond the bandage, I was not satisfied with how I executed the dish. I am still proud of myself. I’m one of the Top 20 best home cooks in all of America.”

MasterChef airs Wednesday nights at 8 p.m. ET/PT on FOX. Streams next day on Hulu.

Related: 'MasterChef's Tiffany Derry Reveals the Biggest Mistake Contestants Keep Making (Exclusive)

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Keeping a kitchen clean is one thing, but making it feel organized without looking cluttered is a completely different challenge. More people are turning their homes into functional spaces that work with their lifestyles rather than against them. From hidden storage to minimal layouts, every inch matters now, especially in apartments, smaller homes and modern kitchens where space disappears fast. The problem is that most trash and recycling systems still feel bulky, ugly or like an afterthought shoved into a corner.

That's why smart waste organization has quietly become one of the biggest home trends right now. People want solutions that blend into their homes rather than stand out for the wrong reasons. A clean aesthetic matters just as much as functionality. Nobody wants giant plastic bins ruining the flow of a kitchen island or crowding narrow walkways.

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DAMMÄNG Bin With Lid, $39.99 at IKEA

IKEA

Shop It!

The DAMMÄNG Bin from IKEA is a surprisingly modern approach to waste sorting. Priced at $39.99, this 13-gallon gray-green bin was designed for larger waste like bottles, boxes and packages while still maintaining a sleek footprint that works in tighter spaces. The narrow profile makes it easy to slide beside a kitchen cabinet or island without dominating the room, unlike many trash bins, which fail immediately.

One of the smartest design choices is the foldable lid system. Even if smaller DAMMÄNG bins are stacked on top, the lid can still open without interruption. That matters for people trying to maximize vertical storage while keeping recycling organized. Stackable systems usually become annoying once access gets complicated, but this setup feels intentionally designed for real-life use. The line also comes in multiple sizes and colors, allowing people to customize their sorting setup depending on their household needs.

Related: Costco's Stylish Outdoor Side Table Looks Like Wood—but It's Built to Last for Years

Another underrated feature is the folding handle. It sounds simple, but carrying a fully loaded waste bin becomes much easier when the handle folds out naturally rather than digging into your hand. Small usability details like that make a huge difference over time, especially for households constantly breaking down deliveries, handling recycling or cleaning throughout the week.

The rounded edges also deserve attention because sharp plastic corners on utility bins eventually become a problem. The softer design makes the bin easier to clean while helping it feel more furniture-inspired than utility-focused. Even the removable lid adds flexibility for people who prefer open-top disposal during cooking or cleanup sessions.

Sustainability also plays a role here. At least 50 percent of the plastic used in both the lid and the bin comes from recycled materials.

The DAMMÄNG proves something simple. Even a trash bin can feel elevated when thoughtful design, functionality and modern aesthetics all come together in one place.

Related: The $25 Kitchen Organizer That Makes Your Under-Sink Cabinet Actually Usable

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Hunting for a bag that's stylish and spacious is no small feat. You want something polished enough for brunch but practical enough to carry you through a full day of errands. If you’re looking for a new bag that checks all of these boxes, the 454 Large Swingpack Buckle Crossbody from Kate Spade Outlet is an option worth considering. 

Right now, it's just $99, down from $329, making an easy designer splurge you'll feel good about. It comes in three colors — warm gingerbread, meringue, and black — classic neutrals that work with everything from a casual weekend outfit to something more elevated.  

454 Large Swingpack Buckle Crossbody, $99 (was $329) at Kate Spade Outlet

Courtesy of Kate Spade Outlet

Shop at Kate Spade Outlet

Made from pebbled leather, this crossbody bag includes a zip closure and an adjustable strap for easy, comfortable wear.  It’s roomy enough to hold a large iPad with space left over for everyday essentials like your phone, wallet, and keys. It’s a great option for anyone who wants a bag that’s cute yet functional for everyday life. Whether you're running errands, meeting friends for lunch, or heading out for the weekend, this is the swing bag that goes wherever you go. 

Shoppers love this Kate Spade crossbody for its practicality and because it’s great for everyday wear. One reviewer said, “My new Kate Spade crossbody is the perfect size! Everything fits and I even have extra room. It has a clean, elegant look for any occasion.” Others appreciated the exterior pocket, with one noting, “I really like the side pocket. Nice quality.”

Related: Kate Spade Outlet's 'Versatile' $87 Nylon Backpack Is a 'Stylish' Way to Carry All Your Essentials

It's a final sale item, which means it can't be returned or exchanged. Still, judging by the reviews, we're pretty confident you won't need to. Shoppers have called it "stunning" and "perfect," and one fan loved it so much she shared: "I have one in every color." 

Shop More Deals

• On Purpose Crossbody Bag, $89 (was $259) at Kate Spade Outlet
• Ivy Crossbody Bag, $109 (was $359) at Kate Spade Outlet
• Carter Nylon Dome Backpack, $99 (was $329) at Kate Spade Outlet

If you've been looking for a designer leather bag that fits your life — and your budget — add the 454 Large Swingpack Buckle Crossbody to your cart while it's still 70% off.

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.

This 1970 country rock song has created a long-lasting legacy in the genre, almost 60 years later.

"Midnight Rider" by The Allman Brothers Band was the second single for the group's sophomore studio album, Idlewild South, in 1970. Though the song didn't chart on the Billboard Hot 100, the original "Midnight Rider" was much more successful compared to various cover versions put out from its release to 1980. The song was recently ranked No. 10 on Ultimate Classic Rock's list of the "Top 35 Country Rock Songs," and still remains on rotation in many listeners' playlists.

Dickie Betts and Derek Trucks perform during the Allman Brothers Band concert at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion on Friday, July 23, 1999, in The Woodlands, Texas.

Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle

'Midnight Rider' was written overnight

Primarily written by lead singer Gregg Allman, "Midnight Rider" follows a nomadic, outlaw character ("a traveler") who is on the run. The song has turned into an anthem about freedom and escape, and captures the spirit of needing to stay moving to avoid being captured or settling down.

The track was written while the band, which includes brothers Gregg and Duane Allman, Dickey Betts, Berry Oakley, Butch Trucks and Jai Johanny "Jaimoe" Johanson, was staying at Idlewild South, a $165-a-month farmhouse they rented on a lake outside Macon, Georgia. While smoking marijuana, Gregg Allman was able to sit down and complete a rough draft of the song in an hour.

"The song came to Allman out of nowhere and it came fast," Substack writer Tom Poland wrote last year when he visited the Idlewild South in February 2025. "It took him just an hour to complete a rough draft, but he hit a roadblock, you could say."

When Allman was stuck on a third verse, he asked his friend and roadie, Kim Payne, for assistance, and they penned the lyric "I've gone past the point of caring / Some old bed I'll soon be sharing," which is considered one of the most iconic parts of the song. Eager to record it, the two broke into a nearby recording studio in the middle of the night to lay down the track.

The impact of 'Midnight Rider'

Though the original version is the most successful, many artists have covered "Midnight Rider," including Blackberry Smoke, British rock singer Joe Crocker for his self-titled album in 1972, a reggae version by Paul Davidson, which reached #10 in the UK Singles Chart in 1976 and Willie Nelson in 1980 for the film soundtrack for The Electric Horseman. In addition, Gregg Allman released a re-imagined version of the song on his first solo album, Laid Back, which featured a horn section and a solo rather than a harmony vocal line. The late singer's solo version reached #19 on the Billboard Hot 100 in early 1974.

Though Gregg Allman penned many of the band's hits, including "Whipping Post" and "Melissa," he wrote in his 2012 memoir My Cross to Bear that "Midnight Rider" is "the song I’m most proud of in my career."

"On 'Midnight Rider,' which is the song I’m most proud of in my career, I had all but the last part — so, as I like to say, I had the song by the nuts, I just had to reel it in. The third verse is really important because it’s kind of the epilogue to the whole thing. Basically, you state the problem in the first verse, you embellish on the problem in the second verse — like 'let me tell you what a [explicit] she really is' — and then you usually have some music, to let you think about the words for a while and also get lifted up by that music," he wrote. "It might sound like I’m giving you a formula to write a song, but I’m not, because it’s never that simple."

The Allman Brothers Band eventually dissolved in 2014 after forming in Jacksonville, Florida, in 1969. Gregg kept busy performing music with his solo band and continued touring until his death in May 2017, when he passed in his sleep due to complications from liver cancer. He was 69 years old.

Gregg Allman of the Allman Brothers performing circa 1972.

Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

Even though the song was released 56 years ago, "Midnight Rider" still has a huge impact on country rock and its fans. All of the Allman Brothers Band and Gregg Allman's discography is available to stream on digital platforms.

Related: 1970 Hit Ranked Among Best ‘Classic Rock Songs’ Became a Breakup Anthem

Anyone with anxiety knows that it can take form at any point in the day—whether you're lying your head down at night, simply sitting down before a meeting or trying something new for the first time. It feels all too natural to be anxious at all the wrong times, but especially so early in the morning.

Morning anxiety feels different from the unease and tension we experience during other times of the day. It can feel invasive first thing when you wake up, as it's one of the first emotions we sense, and it doesn't seem to be caused by anything.

Dr. Anna Elton, PhD, LMFT, CST, confirms that this feeling of worry at the start of the day is significantly distinct from regular anxiety. She credits that to elevated cortisol, the hormone our body releases when we wake up. It causes nerves that we can feel all too well when we get up.

"With elevated cortisol, instead of a nice, gentle boost, you get too much cortisol," she tells Parade.

Fortunately, there are lots of ways to combat apprehension and restlessness when they ramp up in the a.m. This is especially true when you reduce routines or behaviors that are contributing to anxiety, even without us realizing it. Psychologists weigh in on seven morning habits that could be spiking your anxious thoughts when you wake up.

Related: 6 Things Successful People Never, Ever Do at the Start of Their Day

What Is 'Morning Anxiety'?

Anxiety, or at least the definition of it, is no secret to many of us. According to Psychology Today, it can be described as "both a mental and physical state of negative expectation" that often ends up with feelings of dread.

But it seems that "morning anxiety" is a slightly different ball game. And it's a lot more psychological than you might think.

Dr. Debra Kissen, PhD—a licensed clinical psychologist and the CEO and founder of Light On Anxiety CBT Treatment Centers—says that it varies from person to person, depending on what they have going on that day.

"When we awake, depending on one's baseline level of anxiety, [some] people will be like: 'What does today have in store for me? What kind of lions or tigers or bears are in the background waiting to pounce?'" Dr. Kissen explains. "Going from a sleep state to awake is a shift that can be anxiety-provoking; it is a transition."

Morning anxiety can be further described by the Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR), says Dr. Elton, who is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) and a clinical sexologist. When it peaks, it starts the feeling of dread that so many feel when they wake up.

"When you wake up, your body naturally releases cortisol, which helps us start the morning and get going," she explains. "What happens is that it usually rises in the first hour of waking, and then it has a second spike when we're exposed to light."

Excessive spikes of this cortisol can cause anxiety and stress.

Related: The Morning Habit People Over 50 Should Break Immediately, According to Cardiologists

What Can Cause Anxiety at the Start of the Day?

Natalia Lebedinskaia/Getty Images

There are a few causes of morning anxiety other than cortisol spikes, and screens can be a big enabler, according to Dr. Elton.

"When you wake up, and you go straight for your phone, that's when your brain isn't ready to be active and productive," she states. This is especially true for people who may check out stress-provoking things—like the news—right away.

Plus, she says finances are a big stress for people first thing in the morning. She points to research indicating that the first thing people tend to check when they wake up is their bank accounts.

She also cites dehydration as a large biological factor, saying that "overnight, you lose water, and it causes a spike of cortisol as well as heart-rate increase," as well as skipping breakfast because it spikes cortisol.

"The blood sugar drops, and to compensate, the body releases cortisol and adrenaline to keep you going," she explains.

Dr. Kissen also notes that when you wake up, your brain immediately enters a state of alertness, a biological response to survival.

"We might wake with more of a startled response," she states.

Related: ‘I’m a Dermatologist, and This Is the Morning Routine I Swear By To Keep My Skin Barrier Strong’

7 Morning Habits That Can Cause Anxiety Without You Realizing It, Psychologists Share

Sometimes, you could experience morning anxiety without even knowing what's boosting it. The psychologists share what could be ramping it up.

1. Hitting the snooze button multiple times

Once that alarm clock sounds, it might feel easiest to just slam the snooze button until you're ready to get out of bed. But Dr. Elton says you're doing your body more harm than good.

"Each time you snooze, your body restarts its stress response, creating repeated cortisol spikes," she shares. "You’re essentially triggering your anxiety system multiple times before you even get out of bed."

2. Waking up dehydrated and reaching for coffee first

"You lose a significant amount of water overnight, and even mild dehydration can increase cortisol and heart rate," says Dr. Elton.

She stresses that beginning each day with coffee instead of water can really increase your stress response.

3. Overplanning the day

"Some people might hyper-plan all the things they need to do," shares Dr. Kissen. She explains that cramming means you're already setting yourself up to be anxious in the morning.

Planning an extensive list of what you need to do when you wake up, "feels like you've already lost before you've started," she states.

4. Having no plan

"Choosing not to have a plan for the day can be very anxiety-provoking," says Dr. Kissen of the other side of the spectrum.

She suggests it could be better to plan your day the night before, so as not to overwhelm yourself as soon as you wake up.

5. Checking your phone immediately

Our brains are "sensitive right after waking up," explains Dr. Elton.

"Jumping into notifications or news puts you into reaction mode before your nervous system has stabilized," she reveals.

6. Not getting natural light within the first hour

"Morning light helps regulate your circadian rhythm and cortisol levels," shares Dr. Elton. In most cases, if you don't get it, your body will feel off.

"Skipping it can leave your system out of sync, increasing anxiety and mood instability throughout the day," she shares.

7. Not honoring your feelings

"It's important to understand if you're someone who awakes in the first couple of hours with an energy boost," says Dr. Kissen. "But if you're someone whose attention grows more evenly throughout the day... in the morning, do some tasks that are more of a slow build and don't take a lot."

Energy levels are really different for each person, depending on the task they're doing, too, she says.

She also explains that just "knowing your own brain and how it uses a lot of energy, and what times of day where you're full cylinder, versus when you're not fully there yet" is most important.

Related: 'I'm a Trauma-Informed Psychotherapist—Here's What I Wish All Women Over 50 Knew About Anxiety'

Psychologists Reveal How To Break the Cycle of Morning Anxiety

If your anxious moods in the morning are something you want to get out of, the psychologists offer different approaches to breaking the cycle.

According to Dr. Kissen, understanding yourself and what you can handle—while being honest with yourself about what that entails—are the best ways to get out of many anxious mornings.

"... Being more realistic, more mindful and more aware of what you're looking to accomplish will set [you] up better," she shares.

One simple way to ease some of your morning anxiety every day is to do one small, easy task when you wake up, Dr. Elton suggests. This is helpful for many reasons, with one being that it ensures productivity throughout the day.

"For example, making your bed. When you complete something, it gives you some dopamine, so it makes you feel good and motivates you to keep going," she says.

Up Next:

Related: 6 Subtle Traits of People Who Often Catastrophize, According to Psychologists

Sources:

• Dr. Anna Elton, PhD, LMFT, CST, is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Certified Sex Therapist (CST) and a clinical sexologist based in Palm Beach, FL.
• Dr. Debra Kissen, PhD, MHSA, is a licensed clinical psychologist based in Chicago, IL, as well as the CEO and founder of Light On Anxiety CBT Treatment Centers.

Believe it or not, Top Gun opened in theaters 40 years ago. In honor of the anniversary re-release, AMC is celebrating with commemorative, limited-edition helmet popcorn buckets. And fans…well, feel the need for speed!

Movies like Risky Business, Taps, All the Right Moves, and The Outsiders made Tom Cruise a star. But it wasn’t until Top Gun that the actor found an entirely new level of worldwide fame. Released on May 16, 1986, Top Gun featured Cruise as the cocky but lovable Lieutenant Pete “Maverick” Mitchell. The all-star cast also included Val Kilmer as Maverick’s nemesis, Tom “Iceman” Kazansky, Anthony Edwards as Mav’s BFF, Nick “Goose” Bradshaw, Tom Skerritt as Mike “Viper” Metcalf, Meg Ryan as Goose’s wife, and Kelly McGillis as Maverick’s love interest. 

As if the first one wasn’t enough, just over 36 years later, the sequel, Top Gun: Maverick, hit theaters. Starring Miles Teller as Goose’s son and featuring some of the original cast (most notably Tom Cruise and Val Kilmer), the update became an instant fan favorite. With a 96% score on Rotten Tomatoes, this flick is clearly a winner. And now that it’s the 40th anniversary of the ‘86 version, you can watch both films on the big screen again.

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While you go to the theater for the film, the overall experience isn’t complete without a buttery tub of popcorn. Forget about a plain plastic bucket or paper bag. Now that Top Gun is out, AMC is treating fans to a commemorative helmet. Choose between a blue Maverick helmet and a red Goose helmet, each filled with a large popcorn (or get both!). But wait, that’s not all. You can also snag a large drink in a special Top Gun souvenir cup right now. 

What do movie-goers think about the new limited-time AMC Top Gun collectibles? It doesn't look like they've "lost that lovin' feeling" for the movie or its merch. We scrolled through the theater’s Instagram announcement and found comments such as, “Went on a goose chase (pardon the pun) and after three theaters finally got both,” and, “Iceman cup? Let’s go!” 

Based on the comments, the buckets (we mean helmets) and cups are going fast. So don’t wait to catch the re-release and nab your popcorn-drink combo. Even the film’s star posted that he can’t wait to catch the movie again. Cruise recently shared a carousel of throwback pics on Instagram, writing, “I’m so excited to celebrate 40 years of Top Gun with you all. It’s so much fun to see these two films back on the big screen!”

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Top Gun is back in theaters starting May 13, 2026. 

Julian Lennon, the son of Beatles icon John Lennon, is opening up about how he received some devastating health news.

Lennon, 63, took to Instagram over the weekend to share that he has been diagnosed with coronary heart disease and pre-diabetes. However, Lennon said he caught the illnesses early enough that he was able to reverse some of the damage that had already occurred.

Alongside a series of nature photos and one selfie, Lennon penned a caption that shared a message of gratitude.

"After being diagnosed with Coronary Heart Disease & a Pre-Diabetic, I urge all to get checked out sooner than later," Lennon wrote, "as you never know what hidden health issues you may have, even after exercising and eating as much ‘good/healthy' food as possible."

Nip it in the bud! As they say…," Lennon continued. "Even with these ailments, I’ve managed to catch them early enough, to be able to reverse some of the damage and will hopefully be able to live a healthy long life!"

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Lennon continued, encouraging fans, friends, and followers to "Please get checked out, before you’re checked out… ❤️🙏🏼😘." He also expressed his deepest gratitude for the medical professionals that helped him along the way, tagging Dr. Tess Mauricio and Dr. Milind Parikh in the Instagram post.

"And last but not least, thanks to all the Doctors who have helped and guided me on this new journey so far… Truly 🙏🏼 x," he signed the post.

Who Will Play the Beatles in the Upcoming Movie?

Sam Mendes‘ upcoming four-part Beatles biopic, currently titled The Beatles – A Four-Film Cinematic Event, has an interesting lineup of stars set to play the Fab Four.

Harris Dickinson of Babygirl will play Julian's father,John Lennon.

Normal People star Paul Mescal is set to play Paul McCartney, while Harris Dickinson of Babygirl will playJohn Lennon. Joseph Quinn, known for Stranger Things, will play George Harrison, while Barry Keoghan, known for Saltburn, is set to play Ringo Starr, The Hollywood Reporter confirmed. 

Who Will Play the Wives of the Beatles?

Mendes has spoken about the arduous process of casting the Beatles’ wives for his upcoming project.

“Maureen, Linda, Yoko, and Pattie are four fascinating and unique figures in their own right – and I’m thrilled that we’ve managed to persuade four of the most talented women working in film today to join this amazing adventure,” Mendes said in a statement, USA Today reported.

On Oct. 31, Sony finally released the names of the actresses who had scored the coveted roles.

Shogun star Anna Sawai will play John Lennon‘s wife and Julian's step-mother, Yoko Ono, while Mia McKenna-Bruce is set to star as Ringo Starr‘s first wife, Maureen Starkey. Saoirse Ronan will play Paul McCartney‘s wife, Linda McCartney. Pattie Boyd will be portrayed by beloved White Lotus star Aimee Lou Wood.

“The Beatles changed my understanding of music. Pretty much, they made up my first memories,” Mendes said back in April, the publication continued. The project, comprising four films, is expected to be in production for over a year.

Related: 1991 No. 1 Hit Was Based on a Comment Paul McCartney Made About John Lennon

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Summer is around the corner, and hydration is officially part of the outfit. As travel plans fill calendars and warm-weather routines return, Target shoppers are looking for water bottles that do more than just keep drinks cold. Target just teamed up with Owala on a limited-edition drop that taps into one of 2026's biggest style trends.

The new Target Owala collection is inspired by the American West, leaning into the cowgirl core aesthetic that has been dominating fashion runways and social feeds this year. Think desert tones, subtle paisley patterns and playful prints that feel equally at home at a music festival or clipped onto a carry-on bag.

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This special edition Owala lineup includes five 24-fluid-ounce stainless steel FreeSip bottles, each retailing for $34.99 at Target. The designs are exclusive to Target and sold as limited releases, meaning once they sell out, they are not expected to restock.

The collection features:

• Studded Garden, a dusty blue bottle with a minimal floral motif
• Cowgirl Core, a bold cow print that leans fully into Western flair
• Midnight Rodeo, a deep midnight blue with a subtle paisley-inspired pattern
• Painted Canyon, a soft pink with a darker pink minimalist paisley design
• Spur of the Moment, a light pink with a yellow paisley pattern

Each Target Owala bottle in the Western-inspired collection features the brand's signature 24-ounce stainless steel insulated design. The bottles feature triple-layer insulation to keep drinks cold for hours, a leak-proof push-button lid, and Owala's patented FreeSip spout that lets you sip through a built-in straw or tilt back to swig.

Related: Toast to Patio Season in Style With This Durable $3 Beverage Find at Target

Owala 24fl oz Stainless Steel Special Edition FreeSip Water Bottle - Studded Garden, $34.99 at Target

Target

Shop It!

Owala fans know the FreeSip design has built a loyal following, and pairing that functionality with trend-forward Western prints is a smart move for Target. Reviews from early shoppers describe the bottles as even prettier in person, with elevated detailing that stands out from standard Owala colors.

Because these Target Owala tumblers are labeled as special edition and exclusive to Target stores and Target.com, demand is already high. Shoppers report that some locations are selling out quickly or have limited stock remaining. With Western fashion continuing its resurgence in 2026, from cow print to desert-inspired palettes, these Target Owala bottles hit at exactly the right moment.

Related: Target's Fun $15 Accessory Is Peak Small-Town Summer

Your metabolism supports your body’s energy production and calorie management, but it naturally slows with age. That can have an impact on everything from how peppy you feel to your weight. 

“When you're young, the metabolism is always acting at a high rate to burn fuel,” says Dr. Dora Cobrinik, MD, endocrinologist at Tufts Medical Center. “But with age, the metabolism changes, and more fuel—the food we eat—ends up getting stored as fat rather than getting burned.” This is partly because people tend to lose muscle and may be less active, says Dr. Ruchi Gaba, MD, associate professor of endocrinology at Baylor College of Medicine. “But hormones and genetics also play a role,” she adds 

You can’t do anything about your age or genetics, but endocrinologists agree that lifestyle habits can support—or hurt—your metabolism. “Aging does not directly slow metabolism,” says Dr. Maram Khalifa, MD, endocrinologist and assistant professor of medicine at UConn Health. Instead, she points out that behavioral changes and changes to your body composition, like losing muscle due to being less active, can mess with your metabolism. 

Related: Here’s Exactly What Happens to Your Cholesterol When You Eat Walnuts

“This is clinically important because it means metabolic decline is modifiable,” Dr. Khalifa explains. 

An important thing you can do to support metabolic health is to choose the right foods and have them at certain times of the day. “All meals should be well-balanced with lean protein, complex carbs and healthy fats,” says Dr. Benjamin O’Donnell, MD, endocrinologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.

But there’s a common dietary habit people fall into that can interfere with their metabolic health, especially as you age. Endocrinologists recommend being on the lookout for this one. 

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Anastasiia Voloshko/Getty Images

The Worst Habit for Your Metabolism After 50, According to Endocrinologists

Skipping protein at breakfast is a bad habit for your metabolism, according to Dr. Gillian Goddard, MD, endocrinologist at Park Avenue Endocrinology & Nutrition and an adjunct assistant professor of medicine at the NYU Langone Hospital. 

“If you aren't having protein in your breakfast, you are likely consuming a lot of carbs. Think: cereal with fat-free milk or instant oatmeal,” she says. That causes a spike in your blood sugar, which will then plummet, leaving you hungry and craving carbohydrates again, Dr. Goddard explains, adding, “The cycle often repeats all day long."

Related: We Asked 3 Neurologists About the Best Breakfast for Memory and They All Said the Same Thing

Regularly skipping protein at breakfast will accelerate muscle loss, which can slow your metabolism even more, Dr. Khalifa says. 

While having protein throughout the day is crucial, “the morning is a particularly important time to have your high-protein meals, as your metabolism is most active during this time,” Cobrinik explains. 

What To Eat To Support Your Metabolism

Dr. Khalifa recommends following a Mediterranean Diet to support metabolism. “The Mediterranean Diet, with higher protein targets, receives the strongest evidence for metabolic health and sustainable weight management in aging,” she says. 

Dr. Khalifa also suggests evenly spacing out protein across all meals and avoiding the temptation to try to jam in your protein needs at the end of the day. “Single large protein dinners cannot compensate for inadequate earlier meals,” she says. 

Just don’t neglect protein first thing. “Adding protein to your morning meal can help keep your energy steady and make you feel full longer,” Dr. Gaba tells Parade. Eggs, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, nut butter, chicken and turkey sausage are all good options, she adds.  

“Even small additions of protein can make a noticeable difference in how you feel later in the day,” she reveals. “Across the day, focusing on enough protein, whole foods and limiting highly-processed foods can help support overall metabolic health.”

Related: Here’s Exactly What Happens to Your Cholesterol When You Eat Bananas

Other Ways To Support Your Metabolic Health as You Age

Endocrinologists recommend making other lifestyle tweaks to support your metabolic health as you get older. 

“Regular exercise is crucial for metabolic health,” Cobrinik says. “Both cardio and strength training are good for this, and doing a combination of both throughout the week may be best.”

Dr. Goddard also recommends prioritizing sleep. “For most people that means seven to nine hours per night,” she says.

Poor sleep interferes with hunger hormone signaling, elevates levels of the stress hormone cortisol and can interfere with blood sugar management, all of which can have an impact on your metabolism, Dr. Khalifa explains. 

But if you’re concerned about your metabolic health and feel like it’s off, experts say it’s a good idea to check in with a healthcare provider for an evaluation. 

Up Next:

Sources:

• Dr. Maram Khalifa, MD, endocrinologist and assistant professor of medicine at UConn Health
• Dr. Ruchi Gaba, MD, associate professor of endocrinology at Baylor College of Medicine
• Dr. Dora Cobrinik, MD, endocrinologist at Tufts Medical Center
• Dr. Gillian Goddard, MD, endocrinologist at Park Avenue Endocrinology & Nutrition and an adjunct assistant professor of medicine at the NYU Langone Hospital
• Dr. Benjamin O’Donnell, MD, endocrinologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
• Cleveland Clinic. Metabolism. 

Seven years ago, actress Felicity Huffman, best known for playing Lynette Scavo in Desperate Housewives, pleaded guilty in a major college admissions cheating case that shocked Hollywood and the United States.

On May 13, 2019, Huffman appeared in federal court in Boston. Shereportedly  cried as she admitted her role in a scheme to boost her daughter’s SAT scores. She entered a guilty plea to conspiracy to commit mail fraud and honest services mail fraud.

As she entered the courthouse, she avoided cameras and reporters. Inside, she told the judge that her daughter did not know about the scheme. She also said her daughter’s extra time testing accommodation was legitimate.

Felicity Huffman in the "What I Did For Love" episode of DOC.

Photo by FOX via Getty Images

“Everything else” that prosecutors accused her of doing, she said, “I did.”

The case involved wealthy parents, college coaches, test administrators and consultants accused of cheating the system to get students into top universities.

According to NPR, prosecutors said Huffman paid $15,000 to have someone secretly correct her daughter’s wrong answers after she took the SAT. That action was part of a larger operation led by admissions consultant William “Rick” Singer.

Authorities said the scheme included fake test accommodations, altered scores and bribery payments disguised as donations.

Huffman said in a public statement that she accepted “full responsibility for [her] actions” and expressed “deep regret and shame.” She also apologized to students who studied hard and followed the rules.

Prosecutors recommended a $20,000 fine and a four-month prison sentence. She ultimately served 14 days in prison in 2019.

Before the scandal, Huffman was a major television star. She earned an Emmy Award for Desperate Housewives and an Academy Award nomination for the film Transamerica.

Her career included roles in Sports Night, Magnolia and American Crime, where she continued to receive critical praise.

At the time of the scandal, she was one of dozens charged in what prosecutors called a wide-reaching conspiracy involving elite schools and fake athletic recruitment.

Other parents in the case faced different outcomes. Some pleaded not guilty, while others negotiated plea deals. Prosecutors said investigations were still expanding, with more suspects under review.

Huffman was later sentenced to 14 days in jail, one year of supervised release, a $30,000 fine and 250 hours of community service. She reported to prison in October 2019 and was released after serving her sentence.

Her case became one of the first resolved in the scandal and set the tone for later trials and plea deals.

After completing her sentence, Huffman slowly returned to acting. She continued to work in television and film, showing up in projects like When They See Us and The Thirteenth Wife: Escaping Polygamy.

In recent years, she has also appeared in new TV roles, including a part in Fox’s medical drama Doc, where she played Dr. Joan Ridley in Season 2.

She has also signed new agency representation and taken on additional television projects, signaling a steady return to Hollywood work.

Related: Sophia Macy, Daughter of Felicity Huffman and William H. Macy, Hits Red Carpet With Dad After Scandal