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‘The Big Chill’ Star Meg Tilly, 65, Makes Rare Appearance Alongside Her Sister, Jennifer Tilly
Meg Tilly, who starred in the classic 1983 film The Big Chill, made a rare appearance alongside her sister, fellow actress Jennifer Tilly, this week.
Meg, 65, skyrocketed to fame in The Big Chill, the beloved '80s film that told the story of a group of former college friends who gathered for the funeral of Alex, one of their own, after his suicide. Starring Kevin Kline, Glenn Close, Tom Berenger, William Hurt, Jeff Goldblum, JoBeth Williams, and Mary Kay Place, the film became instantly associated with the baby boomer generation and their attempts to recapture their past. Tilly played Alex's young girlfriend, who is still living on the property as the former University of Michigan students gather in his honor. She earned acclaim for her role and went on to earn an Oscar nomination for her next role in Agnes of God. But since then, Tilly has shied away from the spotlight, preferring to leave the bright lights of Hollywood to her older sister, Jennifer.
On her Instagram page, Jennifer surprised followers by featuring Meg in a post.
"My sister Meg is in town! 🥳," Tilly wrote, showing her sister sitting alongside her.
View this post on Instagram Meg Tilly is a Successful NovelistGrowing up in Canada, money was tight for the Tilly family. Meg told the New York Times last year that they "could never have friends sleep over when we were growing up because there wouldn’t be enough for everyone to eat.”
However, she found plenty of success as an adult. While she has no interest in life on the film or the TV screen, Tilly is a successful novelist who has published six standout young adult and literary women’s fiction novels, according to the Penguin Random House website. She also has three grown children and lives with her husband in the Pacific Northwest. Still, she managed to leave her mark on The Big Chill forever:
Jennifer Tilly Rose to StardomMeg may not be one for acting these days, but Jennifer still thrives in front of the camera. Known for roles in Bound, Bullets Over Broadway, and Bride of Chucky, Tilly is currently making waves on the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.
Five Below's Cutesy Perfect-for-Spring Kitchen Find Is Flying Off Shelves at Just $5
I write about a lot of really cute, seasonal kitchen finds. So much so that anyone who has read more than one of my articles probably assumes that I have a full set of tableware for any given occasion or holiday. While that's not entirely true, I do have a carefully curated selection of fun serveware, plates and whatnot. However I still love admiring new finds and passing those finds on to you.
If you're one of those people who was positively verklempt when Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow, predicting six more weeks of winter weather, I fully understand (more like "Punks-utawney in this case, am I right?). The very idea of more freezing temperatures is enough to send anyone spiraling, but you can still brighten things up indoors with the help of some cheerful decor and, yes, tableware.
Five Below's new Chip And Dip Platter is basically a ray of sunshine for your table on even the cloudiest and coldest of days. The platter looks like a happy blossom, with white petals and a bright yellow pistil. And it's only $5, so needless to say it's selling pretty darn fast.
Chip And Dip Platter, $5 at Five Below Five Below's Chip and Dip PlatterFive Below
There are seven "compartments" total, meaning you can keep different chips and dips separate from one another. And the center yellow bowl actually pops out, making it easy to refill and clean.
Here's the thing—this flower-shaped chip and dip platter is way more versatile than it looks on first sight. Sure, chips and guac are the obvious move, but think bigger. Use the center for hummus and the petals for cut veggies, or fill each section with different candies for a cute DIY candy bar moment. It's also perfect for taco toppings, sundae fixings, charcuterie-style snack boards or even a baked potato bar.
You could also use it for brunch, putting fruit in the petals and yogurt dip in the middle. Honestly, anything that benefits from a little organization (and looks better separated) works beautifully. It's basically a built-in entertaining hack disguised as a pretty serving piece.
And maybe you don't use this chip and dip platter for food at all. You could use it as a pretty organizer to keep DIY crafting supplies (like beads) separate but at the ready for your next project. Or maybe you use it for hair accessories. Either way, it's going to bring cheer to your space when you need it the most.
Related: Five Below's $7 Trifold Mirror Is an Anthropologie-Coded Treasure
James Van Der Beek Revealed His First Impressions of Katie Holmes and Joshua Jackson Just Months Ago
ActorJames Van Der Beekdied at the age of 48, as reported by TMZ. Van Der Beek, who shared six children with his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, had been open about his battle with colorectal cancer before his February 11 death.
Van Der Beek began having mainstream success after he started playing Dawson Leery on the hit WB teen drama, Dawson's Creek, which ran for six seasons until 2003. Van Der Beek discussed his time on the series during an April 2025 panel at the Steel City Con, alongside his Dawson's Creek castmate, Kerr Smith.
While on stage before an audience of Dawson's Creek fans, Van Der Beek shared his first impressions of his castmates, Katie Holmes, who played Joey Potter, and Joshua Jackson, who played Pacey Witter. As Dawson's Creek viewers are aware, both Pacey and Dawson had romantic relationships with Joey over the course of the show.
Van Der Beek recalled first seeing Jackson at the Warner Bros. Ranch while test screening for the series. He said Jackson had "a sweater on" despite the weather in Burbank, California, being rather "hot." He also said that Jackson appeared to be "shadow boxing in the parking lot" after his screen test. According to Van Der Beek, he immediately thought Jackson was the perfect fit for Pacey.
"I'm like, 'If that guy's Pacey, this is going to be really interesting.' And that was Joshua Jackson. And I was like, 'Oh that guy would be really, really good,'" said Van Der Beek on the panel.
He then said that he met Holmes when production for the show started in Wilmington, North Carolina.
"Then I got to Wilmington and I met Katie and I'm like, 'Okay, everybody in America is going to fall in love with this one,'" said the Don't Trust the B---- In Apartment 23 star.
In addition, he said that when he was introduced to Michelle Williams, who played Jen Lindley, he viewed her as "this enigma wrapped in a mystery."
"She was like so good," said the actor while on stage with Smith.
While Van Der Beek was impressed with his castmates, he said he didn't think Dawson's Creek would have longevity. He explained he believed Dawson's Creek would have a similar lifespan to the beloved 1994 series, My So-Called Life, which only aired one season.
"Like this could be like My So-Called Life. This could be one of those shows that runs for a little while and gets canceled before it's time. And that was my biggest hope for it," revealed the actor during the Steel City Con.
Columbia Has a Quarter-Zip Pullover on Sale for $33 That’s 'Perfect' for the 'Cold Days of Spring'
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Winter isn’t over yet. There are still several weeks of cold weather ahead of us. If you still haven’t picked up a winter jacket, then you’re in luck. Right now, you can get this “cute” quarter-zip for 50% off at Columbia. This will become your go-to everyday pullover, perfect for commuting, running errands, and daily walks.
The Meridian Creek Quarter-Zip Pullover is on sale now for just $33. Choose from the maroon, white, or black jackets, all of which could pair well with just about anything in your wardrobe. Each pullover is available in sizes extra small to XXL. Shoppers said it’s “comfortable” to wear during “the transitional cold days of spring.” It’s an elevated take on the classic pullover, allowing you to look chic while still staying warm.
Meridian Creek Quarter-Zip Pullover, $33 (was $65) at ColumbiaThe pullover is crafted from 60% cotton and 40% polyester, lined with fuzzy fleece, which shoppers described as “soft” and “cozy.” The ribbed cuffs and hem are designed to keep the warmth inside the jacket. When it gets extra chilly, zip it all the way up and pop the collar to keep your neck warm.
Shoppers said it’s the “perfect weight,” and the longer length provides extra coverage. Wear it with leggings and sneakers or jeans and boots. It’s machine washable, but you can also take it to the dry cleaners.
We think this pullover would be a fantastic travel item. It’s seemingly easy to pack, and when you’re not wearing it, it would be easy to tie it around your waist and remain hands-free. Shoppers appreciated how “versatile” the jacket is, ideal for both indoor and outdoor activities. Quarter-zips are great for layering, allowing you to wear a shirt underneath or a coat over it comfortably.
Shop More Deals- Aldermore Half Zip Fleece Pullover, From $28 (was $55) at Columbia
- Lake Aloha Half Zip Fleece Pullover, From $39 (was $55) at Columbia
- Glacial IV Half Zip Fleece, From $27 (was $45) at Columbia
Look cool while staying warm. Pick up the Meridian Creek Quarter Zip Pullover for just $33 now at Columbia.
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'70s Rock Hitmakers Announce 2026 Tour Update 51 Years After Double-Platinum Album
Jefferson Starship is definitely a band that's been through a lot over the years, including name, lineup and even genre changes, but one of the biggest highlights came in the form of their double-platinum 1975 album Red Octopus, which spawned the massive hit "Miracles" (if only you believe like I believe, baby...).
Now, over 50 years later, Jefferson Starship is hitting the road on the Runaway Again 2026 Tour, as was announced in December...and it just got even more massive.
The upcoming jaunt, which kicks off on Feb. 14 in Santa Fe and features special guests Atlanta Rhythm Section, Firefall and Orleans, has added over 10 new dates across North America and Europe including stops in Wichita, Peoria and Kansas City.
Jefferson Starship is expanding the 2026 tour and we’re coming to a city near you!
Artist Presale starts TOMORROW, February 11 at 10am local - sign up now for access! Public Onsale is this Friday, February 13 at 10am local.https://t.co/ccbblQ6fn0 pic.twitter.com/uAvua2xUHd
As Jefferson Starship's post announcing the new dates noted, artist presale started today, Feb. 11, with the public sale opening up this Friday, Feb. 13.
While out on the road, Jefferson Starship will also play some U.S. dates with the Marshall Tucker Band before opening for Foreigner in the U.K.
Jefferson Starship's current lineup is David Freiberg's 'favorite'In an interview this month with Albuquerque Journal, guitarist and singer David Freiberg chatted about the band's current lineup, calling it "my favorite right now."
“Not that everybody who went before weren’t important — they were absolutely important. But it all grew into this,” Freiberg said, “and everybody in our band has complete respect for everybody who’s ever been in it.”
While Freiberg wasn't a founding member of Jefferson Airplane, he was with the band during their transition to Jefferson Starship and co-wrote one of their biggest hits, "Jane."
“I joined for their very last tour,” Freiberg said, “but I knew [founding member] Paul Kantner as a folk singer before we even thought about being in rock ’n’ roll bands. We had big ideas about being a folk duo.”
At the age of 87, Freiberg is still eager to play hit the road.
“I feel like that’s when I get to hang out with my best friends,” he said. “I’ve noticed some of the other bands we’ve toured with, they’ll say, ‘Jeez, do you guys always eat together? You’re always together.’”
Related: 'The Most Detested Song in Human History' Has Been Streamed Hundreds of Millions of Times
James Van Der Beek's On-Screen Son Says, 'Bye for Now'
Dawson's Creek turned James Van Der Beek into a household name. He was a teen heartthrob as the titular character in the high school show. Van Der Beek, 48, continued to play handsome characters since then, and more comedic roles. He died on February 11, and many people who loved him are sharing their reactions.
Noah Beck Says Goodbye to James Van Der Beek View this post on InstagramThe beloved '90s star played a father named Leroy Lahey in the Tubi movies, Sideline: The QB and Me, Sidelined: Rewind with Noah Siena, and Sidelined 2: Intercepted. Noah Beck played the main love interest, Drayton. The 24-year-old actor posted a picture of himself sitting next to Van Der Beek on bleachers in a scene on his Instagram story.
"Man, this one hurts," he wrote. "[James you] were the best, so kind, so caring, so thoughtful, so talented, great father, and just an absolute inspiration of a human being. [I] feel so incredibly lucky to have met [you] and share the screen with [you] as my father. [You] were the best mentor [I] could ask for..." Beck posted a closer picture of himself with his hand on Van Der Beek's shoulder. "Bye for now," he wrote.
Van Der Beek played a high school quarterback in Varsity Blues. Beck told Entertainment Tonight he said the actor could see his role in the Tubi movie as a later sequel for his character Mox. "You're grown up, you have a son now, and you're a little hard on him," Beck said. "He was like, 'Go to time out.' He's the best."
The Tubi movie was Beck's first feature film. The sequel was Van Der Beek's last role. Van Der Beek revealed he was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in 2023. He talked to Parade about his passion for his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, and their six kids—Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn and Jeremia last year.
2010s Indie Rock Band Announces Fifth Studio Album
Though Bleachers put out their fourth studio album less than two years ago, they are back again with their next project.
Frontman Jack Antonoffhas been teasing new music from his indie alternative rock band Bleachers on social media this past week, but on Wednesday, he finally revealed that they will release their fifth studio album, everyone for ten minutes, on May 22. In addition, the lead single, "you and forever," and its music video, directed by Alex Lockett and Patti Villirillo, is out now. The video stars him and his wife, Margaret Qualley, as well as their dog Smokey.
"B5 is upon us..." Antonoff wrote in his caption on X. "we've missed you horribly."
HERE WE GO
the new bleachers album ‘everyone for ten minutes’ is here on may 22, 2026.
‘you and forever’ our first single is out now. music video made by alex and patti, starring margaret and smokey — up on youtube. :)
B5 is upon us….
we’ve missed you horribly.
‘glory to… pic.twitter.com/kklnYSOucN
Antonoff formed Bleachers in 2013 in New Jersey and was the only permanent member of the group for 10 years, until touring musicians Mikey Freedom Hart, Sean Hutchinson, Evan Smith, Michael Riddleberger and Zem Audu became official members. Their earlier music was heavily influenced by the sounds of the late 1980s and early 1990s, plus the high school-based films of John Hughes. The group has released four studio albums since its formation, with their most recent being a self-titled album in 2024. In addition, Bleachers re-recorded their 2014 debut, Strange Desire, in 2024, and titled it A Stranger Desire to celebrate its 10th anniversary.
Outside of his band, Antonoff is a well-known producer, working with many artists including Gracie Abrams, Taylor Swift, Doja Cat, Sabrina Carpenter, Kendrick Lamar, Lorde, Lana Del Ray and more. In addition, he used to be the drummer for the rock band Fun and the lead vocalist of the indie rock band Steel Train. As a producer, the 41-year-old musician has won 13 Grammy Awards and won the Producer of the Year award three consecutive times from 2022 to 2024.
US musician and record producer Jack Antonoff arrives for the 68th Annual Grammy Awards at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on February 1, 2026.Etienne Laurent / AFP via Getty Images
Many of his fans expressed their excitement for the band's comeback all over social media.
"HELLO???? WHAT????," a user commented on X.
"we are SO BACK," a fan account dedicated to the indie rock band commented on Instagram.
"You can just picture the energy on stage and in the crowd as you and forever builds to that end," a user wrote on X. "God I can’t wait to hear this live."
One fan wrote, "I USED TO PRAY FOR TIMES LIKE THIS."
Another said, "THANK GOD."
"Jack this is actually insane, I’m suing," a listener joked on X.
"BIG DAY FOR PEOPLE LIKE ME🍅🍅🍅🍅," another fan commented.
View this post on InstagramBleachers' new album, everyone for ten minutes, will be out on May 22 via his independent label, Dirty Hit. "you and forever," the first single, is out now.
Related: 2010s Indie Rock Band Reacts to Third Grammy Nomination Since Forming
Country Star, 35, Says He’s ‘Going Deaf’ in One Ear: ‘Can’t Think Straight’
Thomas Rhett can’t hear as well as he used to.
The country music superstar and his wife, Lauren Akins, who is pregnant with the couple's fifth child, stopped by the That Sounds Fun podcast, where he revealed he is “kind of going deaf” in one ear.”
The issue likely won’t impact the “Mamaw’s House” singer’s future music releases or touring life, however, as he has already found a solution.
“I’m kind of going deaf in this ear a little bit,” Rhett confessed while pointing to one side before revealing. “I had to go get hearing aids as a 35-year-old man.”
Thomas Rhett Has Gotten Used to His Hearing LossFor someone whose life revolves around music, both in the studio and on stage, the adjustment hasn’t exactly been seamless. Rhett admitted that when he first put on the electronic device, he wasn’t comfortable with the newly amplified sound. He joked that he wanted to go back to his previous “normal,” even if that meant having slight hearing loss.
“I wore them for like a week,” Rhett explained before sharing his reaction to the sensory overload, “Then I asked [Lauren], ‘Is this legit what you hear all day long?’”
Laughing, Akins intervened with, “He was like, ‘I can’t think straight. It’s so loud.’ I was like, ‘Babe, welcome.’”
“I’m sitting there just messing with the functions on my phone. I’m like, ‘Noise cancel, noise cancel,’ and when I take them out I’m like, ‘Okay, this is normal again,’” Rhett said. “I just stand there, and I'm like, ‘This is insanity.’”
The Celebrity Couple Don’t Rely on Babysitters or Nannies for Help With Their KidsWhile the adjustment period has been an experience, better hearing may prove useful at home. Rhett and Akins, who — at the time of the recording — was 32 weeks pregnant, revealed they don’t rely on a nanny and they don’t have a particular babysitter that they call when they need help with their four kids, Lillie Carolina, 4, Lennon Love, 6, Ada James, 8, and Willa Gray, 10. With that much activity under one roof, being able to hear through the chaos will certainly come in handy at home, especially now that they have their baby. No. 5 on the way.
Rhett, 35, and Akins, 36, will find out the gender of their impending baby upon the child’s due in March — adding one more surprise to their already lively household.
This Country Music Version of a Bob Dylan Classic Is Enjoying a Revival
Decades after Bob Dylan first sketched it, the song he inspired is making a comeback, this time as a hit country version reaching a fresh audience.
As of Wednesday, February 11, Darius Rucker’s 2013 rendition of “Wagon Wheel” is sitting at No. 35 on TikTok’s Top 50 chart. Upon further investigation, it looks like the track is ranking ahead of Valentine’s Day, which falls on Saturday, February 14, as a sweet trend dedicated to romantic partners.
TikTok users are cutting the lyrics, “I hear my baby calling my name, and I know that she's the only one / And if I die in Raleigh, at least I will die free / So rock me, mama, like a wagon wheel / Rock me, mama, any way you feel / Hey, mama, rock me,” over black-and-white clips of their girlfriends, fiancées, or wives.
Related: 1965 Bob Dylan ‘Diss Track’ Named ‘One of the Best Songs Ever Written’
Considering “Wagon Wheel” is widely regarded as one of Rucker’s biggest hits, the average country music listener might not realize its connection to Dylan.
Dylan, 84, wrote the original chorus to what would become “Wagon Wheel” during a 1973 recording session, leaving it unfinished. Decades later, Ketch Secor of Old Crow Medicine Show completed the verses, turning it into the full song fans know today. Dylan receives co-writing credit for the chorus, making him an essential part of the song’s story.
As for Rucker, 59, he released “Wagon Wheel” in January of 2013 as a single from his album True Believers. It saw major success topping the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, and eventually went on to achieve diamond certification.
Before going solo, Rucker was the lead singer of the rock band Hootie & the Blowfish, which achieved massive fame in the 1990s with hits like Hold My Hand and Only Wanna Be with You.
Costco Dropped $12 Slides That Look Like a Trendy Athlete-Approved Style 5x the Price
Costco just dropped trendy slides that combine style, comfort and affordability. I'm listening! These new slides hit the sweet spot between everyday wear and performance footwear, giving off the same athlete-approved vibe as high-end recovery shoes without the hefty price tag. They're casual enough for lounging around the house, shower-friendly for post-gym use and surprisingly versatile for running errands or just stepping outside.
Costco is selling 32 Degrees Unisex Cushion Slides for $11.99. Available in tan, black, and navy, and in sizes XS–XL, these Costco slides feature an EVA-cushioned footbed for comfort and support. The slip-on style makes them easy to put on and take off, and their shower-friendly design and wipe-clean surface add a level of practicality that makes them ideal for daily use. Whether you're looking for footwear to wear around the house, at the pool or after a long workout, these slides check all the boxes.
32 Degrees Unisex Cushion Slide, $11.99 at CostcoCostco
What makes these Costco slides so compelling is how closely they resemble Oofos slides, which retail for roughly $60. Athletes and anyone seeking recovery footwear love Oofos slides, thanks to cushioning that reduces stress on knees, ankles and hips. The curved footbed provides excellent arch support, making them highly recommended for conditions such as plantar fasciitis.
Related: Costco Shoppers Are Racing to the Bakery for These Cute Valentine's Day Treats
While the budget-friendly 32 Degrees slides from Costco don't carry the exact recovery technology as Oofos, they mimic the cushioned, bouncy feel that makes the slides so popular. For $12, they're perfect for casual wear, short walks or pairing with lounge outfits. Their lightweight design and easy-clean surface also make them a hygienic option for frequent use. For anyone curious about athlete-approved footwear but not ready to invest in a high-priced pair of slides, these Costco shoes are a practical and stylish alternative.
Whether you're seeking comfort, versatility or want slides that look a little more polished than your standard flip-flops, these Costco slides deliver. They offer the kind of cushioned, supportive feel that makes you appreciate good footwear without making a big dent in your budget. From casual errands to post-workout downtime, these slides are a standout example of how Costco continues to offer shoes that look high-end, feel comfortable and perform surprisingly well for the price.
What's the Best Type of Chocolate for Chocolate-Covered Strawberries? A Legendary French Pastry Chef Weighs In
It wouldn’t be Valentine’s Day without chocolate. And when the love-filled holiday rolls around, you've got plenty of options. There are the heart-shaped boxes full of candies, chocolate layer cakes slathered with frosting, ooey-gooey lava cakes—and don’t forget the chocolate-covered strawberries.
Grocery stores are stocked with them and chocolatiers are busy dipping and dunking the juicy fruit, but you don’t have to be a professional to turn out a great-looking Valentine’s treat. Making chocolate-covered strawberries at home is easier than you think and is guaranteed to impress.
You really only need two ingredients to pull it off: fresh strawberries and chocolate for melting. With those two things and a bit of time, you can make the perfect sweet to share with your partner, friends, kids, coworkers, or maybe just a batch for yourself.
To help you make this Valentine’s classic at home, we called in "Mr. Chocolate" himself, French pastry chef and chocolatier Jacques Torres, who you might know from his iconic candies, dessert shops in New York City, cookbooks or TV appearances, including his long-time stint as the head judge on Nailed It! on Netflix.
When we caught up with Torres, he had recently been to his go-to produce wholesaler in the Bronx. "This year I bought about 1,600 long-stemmed strawberries, and now we're going to dip them," he tells Parade.
No matter if you're making a few or thousands of chocolate-dipped strawberries, Torres says one thing is key. “Making them personalized goes a long way,” he explains. “Not only are you going to the effort, but you’re making something just for them.”
Ready to get started? We quizzed Torres about everything you need to know, including the best type of chocolate for chocolate-covered strawberries, how to melt the chocolate properly, mastering the art of the dip, decorating and dressing up the treats, storing your DIY sweets so they last and more. Read on to learn how to make this next-level dessert at home.
Related:The 13 Different Types of Chocolate You Need to Know About, According to Legendary Chocolatier Jacques Torres
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According to Torres, the best type of chocolate to use is whatever type of chocolate the person you’re making the strawberries for loves, whether that’s dark, milk or white chocolate.
Dark chocolateWhen it comes to dark chocolate, Torres prefers one that's 60 percent cacao. It will have a robust flavor that pairs well with the sweet berry but is not so full-flavored that it overpowers the fruit. These days, you can find the cacao percentage on the label of most chocolate bars, particularly dark chocolate.
Related: The Genius Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry Trick Fans Are Calling ‘Perfection’
If your sweetie is a milk chocolate fan, Torres says that the best bet is to taste the chocolate, though that might not be so practical if you're standing in the grocery store aisle.
Another way to find a tasty milk chocolate is to check the ingredients list for milk powder, which will help the chocolate taste creamy, sweet and mellow, with just a touch of toasty flavor. Torres says that European milk chocolate typically contains milk powder, but that there are many options, both imported and domestic, in supermarkets today.
"You don't have to go to a specialty store," he says. "Just look at the chocolate bar and see the composition."
For white chocolate, Torres has another label suggestion. "White chocolate should contain cocoa butter," he says. "If it doesn't contain cocoa butter, it's not real chocolate. It's something else, but it's not real chocolate." At many supermarkets, you can find white chocolate brands like Lindt that will work for dipping berries.
Related: How to Store Strawberries So They Last, According to a Berry Expert
Can You Use Chocolate Chips To Make Chocolate-Covered Strawberries?"The majority of chocolate chips that you find at the grocery store are probably not appropriate for making chocolate-dipped strawberries, because they don't melt," says Torres.
"When you look at the composition of those chocolate chips, the first ingredient is sugar," he adds. "That means certainly less than 50% cocoa butter, which means it's not a very good chocolate for dipping."
Chocolate chips are formulated to hold their shape when heated, which is good if you're making cookies, but if you try to use them for dipping, the mixture can be thick and clumpy, which will cause issues.
"You need to buy a chocolate bar or a bag of chocolate pieces that's not made for cookies, but for eating," Torres tells Parade. "If you find that, most likely there will be enough cocoa butter." The amount of cocoa butter is important because it will help make the chocolate fluid, making dipping easier and ensuring that you get a smooth coating.
Related: We Baked Cookies With 13 Different Chocolate Chip Brands and The Winner Shocked Us
What's the Best Way To Melt Chocolate for Chocolate-Covered Strawberries?For dipping berries, you want to temper the chocolate, which is a process of melting and slowly cooling the chocolate so it will set with a hard, shiny finish. There are two common methods for melting chocolate: using a double boiler or heating it in the microwave. Torres says using a double boiler can be tricky because if any water gets into the chocolate, it’s no longer good to work with.
Because of that, his preferred at-home method is to use the microwave, which is great news for home cooks. To do it, place the chocolate in a heat-safe bowl, microwave for 20 seconds, stir the chocolate and then microwave for another 20 seconds. Repeat the process until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
Once the chocolate is melted, it’s important to slowly cool it. Your temperature goal is 90 degrees, which is when the cocoa butter crystals are stabilized and will set properly as the chocolate cools on the berries.
To help it cool slowly, transfer the melted chocolate to a clean, room-temperature bowl. As the chocolate gradually cools, the edges will start to crystallize on the side of the bowl. When this crystallization happens, use a spatula to scrape the sides of the bowl and stir the chocolate.
Continue scraping and stirring, doing this process three times, waiting a few minutes in between and checking the temperature with a thermometer periodically. When you reach 90 degrees, you're ready to dip. (The whole process should take 10 to 15 minutes, says Torres.) If the chocolate starts to cool off, he suggests heating it back up using a hair dryer. The gentle heat will warm the chocolate up gradually.
To test the tempered chocolate before dipping, spread a small amount on a small piece of parchment paper. Wait a few minutes to ensure it has set with a shiny finish and nice snap.
Related: The Genius Way to Make Strawberry Shortcake 10x Better
It’s important to wash your berries ahead of time and only dip completely dry strawberries in chocolate to make sure the chocolate sticks. Torres says to avoid using cold strawberries because the moisture on the surface of the fruit can prevent the chocolate from sticking. “Leave them out for a couple of hours before dipping,” he advises.
Take each room-temperature berry and dip it in the chocolate almost all the way to the stem. (You can hold the berry with your fingers or insert a skewer or toothpick in the top to help with dipping.) Torres recommends removing the strawberry from the chocolate and putting it back in a few times to help to pull excess chocolate off and create a smooth, even coating. Gently wipe any remaining excess chocolate on the side of the bowl before placing the berry on parchment paper.
“The time it takes for the berries to set depends on the temperature of your kitchen,” says Torres. Generally speaking, they should set within five minutes.
Related: The Best Way To Clean Fresh Strawberries
Sofia Polukhina via Getty Images
One of the advantages of making chocolate-covered strawberries at home is being able to top them with tasty things that you know your Valentine will enjoy.
“Have fun and personalize it,” says Torres. “Make something they’re going to see and say ‘Wow! They know what I love.' If your significant other loves cereal, use cereal. If they love coffee, use a sprinkle of instant coffee.”
Looking for more inspiration? Other options include crushed nuts, sprinkles, cookie crumbs, coconut, cocoa powder, chocolate shavings, dried fruit, dried edible flowers and more. “Whatever the person likes, try to include that,” he stresses. “Then people realize it’s just for them.”
If you want the topping ingredients to surround the berry instead of just sitting on top, you can sprinkle a bit of whatever you're using on the parchment paper before you start dipping. That way, when you place the freshly dipped strawberry on the parchment, it will stick to the bottom of the berry. After you set the dipped berry on the parchment, quickly sprinkle the rest of it with more of the topping to make sure it’s fully covered.
If you like the look of a drizzle on top of the berries, Torres says that you'll need to temper a second chocolate, which might be more trouble than it's worth for home cooks. Alternatively, you can heat up some candy melts (chocolate-like candy discs designed for decorating) in the microwave and drizzle those over the coated berries.
Related: The Secret Ingredient for the Richest, Most Delicious Chocolate Cake
Unfortunately, chocolate-covered strawberries don’t age well. That’s part of what makes these treats so special. “It’s best to dip them the day you plan to eat them,” Torres explains. The longer chocolate-covered strawberries sit, the more moisture is released from the berries, and they start to sweat and soften.
Torres says if you need to prep them ahead of time, try to dip them just one day before serving. Dip them, let them set and then transfer the berries to a plate on a clean piece of parchment paper. Cover them with plastic wrap and stash them in the fridge.
When you take them out of the fridge, leave the plastic wrap on top and let them sit out for a few hours before removing the wrapping. This will help to reduce condensation for a better chocolate-covered strawberry eating experience.
Up Next:
Related: My Dad Cracked the Code to the Best-Ever Chocolate Chip Cookies
Source:- Jacques Torres, owner of New York City-based Jacques Torres Chocolates, master pastry chef, chocolatier, head judge on Nailed It! on Netflix and author of more than a dozen cookbooks.
Walmart's $39 5-Tier Bookcase Is a 'Cute' and Compact Storage Upgrade for Small Spaces
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If you’ve been staring at an empty corner in your dining room, living space, or bedroom and thinking it needs something, Walmart just marked down a piece of furniture that might just be the perfect fit (literally). Right now, the Casual Home 5-Shelf Corner Ladder Bookcase is on sale for just $39, down from $81. It’s available in a versatile white colorway and designed to fit seamlessly into a corner, helping you make the most of your space.
It’s made from 100% solid wood, and the five shelves gradually widen toward the bottom for stability and balance. It measures 24.5 inches wide, 17.25 inches deep, and 37.75 inches high, making it perfect for apartments or smaller layouts where a full bookcase might feel overwhelming.
The Casual Home 5-Shelf Corner Ladder Bookcase, $39 (was $81) at Walmartcourtesy of W
The bookcase’s design is specifically designed to fit into a corner, allowing it to sit flush against two walls. It features five open shelves for books, decor, or storage baskets, while keeping a narrower overall width than a traditional bookcase. The ladder-style design keeps it open and airy, and it’s easy to assemble. Thanks to its compact footprint, it can be positioned in dining rooms, bedrooms, or living areas without taking up too much space.
Shoppers have said it’s “cute,” “easy to put together,” and “sturdy.” One shared that it’s made of “nice solid wood material,” while another wrote, “This worked perfectly in my dining room corner that needed a little something extra to complete the room.”
Related: Amazon’s $22 Floating Shelves Are 'Beautiful and Whimsical' With Major Cottagecore Vibes
Its simple design makes it super easy to fill its shelves. A few stacked books, a plant, maybe a ceramic bowl or framed photo, and it looks like very purposeful decor. Because the shelves widen as they go down, you can place heavier pieces on the lower tiers and keep smaller decor toward the top without it looking unbalanced.
Shop More Deals- Yoobure 4-Tier Corner Bookshelf, From $40 (was $60) at Walmart
- Edx 5-Tier Bookcase Storage, From $50 (was $70) at Walmart
- Casacomoda 5-Tier Bookshelf, From $45 (was $75) at Walmart
This bookcase adds easy storage, fills an empty space, and is compact enough to move elsewhere without feeling locked into a single layout. If you’ve been meaning to do something with that empty corner, now is the perfect time to snag the Casual Home 5-Shelf Corner Ladder Bookcase while it’s still marked down this low at Walmart.
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Inside the Kennedy Family: 50+ Facts You May Not Know
Camelot may have ended with JFK, asJackie Kennedy once suggested, but the Kennedys have continued to captivate far beyond that brief shining moment. Members of the famous family, often regarded as American royalty, have inspired film and TV projects over the years, with JFK Jr. getting the Hollywood treatment in FX's Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette, premiering Feb. 12. From weddings and deaths to surprising awards, learn more about the Kennedys with these 50 facts.
50 Kennedy Family Facts1. John Fitzgerald Kennedy, JFK, was born on May 29, 1917.
2. JFK was the second oldest of nine siblings.
3. JFK was named in honor of his maternal grandfather, John Francis Fitzgerald, who was the mayor of Boston.
4. Jacqueline Bouvier worked for the Washington Times-Herald, where she had a column called "Inquiring Camera Girl."
5. Jackie covered Queen Elizabeth's coronation in 1953.
Bachrach/Getty Images)
6. Jackie and John met in 1952. "We met at the house of a friend about two years ago," she told CBS News in 1953.
7. Jackie and JFK were married on September 12, 1953, at St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church in Newport, Rhode Island.
8. For her wedding, Jackie wore an ivory silk taffeta gown designed by Ann Lowe.
9. John and Jackie honeymooned in Mexico.
10. Jackie delivered a stillborn daughter named Arabella in 1956.
11. JFK and Jackie welcomed their daughter Caroline in 1957.
12. The couple's son, John Jr., was born in 1960.
13. The president was a Pulitzer Prize winner. Profiles in Courage, which he dedicated to Jackie, received the Pulitzer Prize for biography in 1957.
Apic/Getty Images
14. JFK and Jackie had a son named Patrick Bouvier Kennedy who died 39 hours after his birth in 1963.
15. John F. Kennedy was elected the 35th President of the United States in 1960.
16. President Kennedy was 43, making him the youngest person ever elected president of the United States. He was also the first Catholic president.
17. JFK delivered his memorable line "Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country" in his 1961 inaugural address.
18. Maria Shriver is among JFK's nieces and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. among the former president's nephews.
19. Jackie, at the age of 31, became the third youngest first lady in U.S. history.
20. The White House Historical Association was established by Jackie in 1961.
Getty Images)
21. JFK's daughter Caroline received a pony named Tex from Vice President Johnson.
22. Motherhood is said to have been Jackie's priority. She is quoted as once telling a reporter that "if you bungle raising your children, I don't think whatever else you do well matters very much."
23. The family's dog Pushinka was a gift from a Soviet leader. Per the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, before the pup "arrived at the White House as a surprise in June of 1961," Jackie had, earlier that month, "asked Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev about the dog Strelka, who had been sent into space as part of the Soviet space program and was about to have a litter of puppies." JFK thanked the leader for the pup, writing: "Her flight from the Soviet Union to the United States was not as dramatic as the flight of her mother, nevertheless, it was a long voyage and she stood it well."
24. Jackie won an award at the 1962 Emmys, the Trustees Award. The first lady received the special award for her hourlong tour of the newly restored White House.
GHI/Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group via Getty Images
25. Caroline learned of her father's death from her nanny. Per PEOPLE, Maud Shaw wrote in her memoir: "I sat on the edge of [Caroline's] bed [that night] and felt tears well up in my eyes. Caroline looked up at me. ‘What’s the matter, Miss Shaw? Why are you crying?’ I took her in my arms. ‘I can’t help crying, Caroline, because I have some very sad news.'"
Shaw added, "Then I told her. It was a dreadful time for us both. Eventually she fell asleep while I sat on the bed, still patting her. At last I tiptoed from the room, leaving the door open just a crack, as always."
26. The iconic pink suit Jackie was wearing the day her husband was killed was from the New York shop Chez Ninon. According to TheNew York Times, the first lady had worn it at least six times other times.
27. Jackie's pink suit was donated by her daughter Caroline to the National Archives "through a deed of gift, signed in 2003." Per the National Archives, "Access to the clothing and personal effects of Mrs. Kennedy are restricted for 100 years from the date of execution of the deed of gift."
28. Jackie became a widow at the age of 34 following the assassination of her husband JFK.
Keystone/Getty Images)
29. JFK is buried in Arlington National Cemetery. Jackie lit the eternal flame at her husband's grave.
30. Jackie married Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Socrates Onassis in 1968. After his death, Jackie is quoted as saying via History News Network: "Aristotle Onassis rescued me at a moment when my life was engulfed with shadows… We lived through many beautiful experiences together… for which I will be eternally grateful."
Express Newspapers/Getty Images)
31. Jackie, who was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma, died on May 19, 1994 in New York City, and is buried next to her first husband in Arlington National Cemetery.
32. John F. Kennedy Jr. launched his magazine George in 1995.
33. JFK Jr. once dated Sex and the City star Sarah Jessica Parker.
34. Caroline Kennedy married designer Edwin Schlossberg on July 19, 1986.
NEW ROSS, IRELAND - JUNE 22: Tatiana Schlossberg, Jack Schlossberg, Rose Schlossberg, Edwin Schlossberg and Caroline Kennedy attend a ceremony to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the visit by US President John F Kennedy, on June 22, 2013 in New Ross, Ireland. The Eternal Flame from Kennedy's grave was used to light a flame on the quayside where he gave a speech in 1963. (Photo by Clodagh Kilcoyne/Getty Images)
35. JFK and Jackie had three grandchildren through their daughter, Caroline: Rose, Tatiana and John "Jack" Bouvier Kennedy Schlossberg.
36. According to the New York Post, Caroline's eldest child's name is an homage to President Kennedy's mother, Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy...and it was chosen by Jackie.
37. Tatiana Schlossberg married her college sweetheart George Moran in 2017 at her family’s estate on Martha’s Vineyard.
38. Tatiana shared two kids with her husband: son Edwin and daughter Josephine.
Related: Look Back at Photos of John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette
39. Rose Schlossberg reportedly married her wife, restaurateurRory McAuliffe, in 2022.
40. Jean Kennedy Smith, who was President Kennedy's last surviving sibling, passed away at the age of 92 in 2020.
41. Tatiana, an environmental journalist, died on December 30, 2025, at the age of 35. The month before her death, JFK's granddaughter revealed that she had been diagnosed with leukemia in 2024 following the birth of her daughter.
42. Author Andrew Lownie wrote in the biography Entitled: The Rise and Fall of the House of York (via PEOPLE) that Sarah Ferguson, Queen Elizabeth's former daughter-in-law, had a "schoolgirl crush" on JFK Jr.
Brownie Harris/Corbis via Getty Images)
43. JFK Jr. was named PEOPLE's Sexiest Man Alive in 1988.
44. The son of the late president and first lady earned his private pilot license in April 1998.
45. According to E! News, Caroline was her sister-in-law Carolyn's matron of honor.
Richard Corkery/NY Daily News Archive via Getty Images)
46. JFK Jr. and Carolyn tied the knot on September 21, 1996 in a private ceremony at the First African Baptist Church on Cumberland Island off the coast of Georgia.
47. PEOPLE has previously reported that JFK Jr. honored his father on his wedding day wearing the late president's watch.
48. Anthony Radziwiłl, the son of Jackie Kennedy’s sister Lee Radziwill, served as his cousin’s best man.
49. JFK Jr.'s cousin Anthony was married to Carole Radziwill, who later appeared on TheReal Housewives of New York.
50. JFK Jr. and Carolyn were going to attend his cousin Rory Kennedy's wedding before their plane went down in the Atlantic Ocean in 1999.
51. JFK Jr. and Carolyn were buried at sea from the USS Briscoe.
Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
52. Caroline Kennedy has served as a United States Ambassador to Japan from 2013 to 2017 and United States Ambassador to Australia from 2022 to 2024.
53. Neil Diamond's popular song "Sweet Caroline" was inspired by Caroline Kennedy. Recalling telling Caroline about her being the inspiration, the singer told the Associated Press (via NME), "I thought she might be embarrassed, but she seemed to be struck by it and really, really happy."
54. JFK's grandson announced in 2025 that he was running for congress.
Katie Couric Reacts to 'Heartbreaking' Death of James Van Der Beek at Age 48
Katie Couric was among those who were devastated to hear about the death of beloved actorJames Van Der Beek.
Van Der Beek died at the age of 48 on Wednesday, Feb. 11 following a battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer, the same illness to which Couric lost her first husband, Jay Monahan.
On Wednesday afternoon, Couric joined those on social media paying tribute to the late actor, known for his roles in Dawson's Creek and Varsity Blues.
"This is heartbreaking," Couric, 69, wrote via Instagram.
View this post on InstagramMonahan, Couric's first husband, died from the same type of cancer in January 1998. At the age of 41, Monahan was diagnosed with stage 4 colorectal cancer and died just nine months later, only two weeks after marking his 42nd birthday.
Following his death, Couric became a vocal advocate for colon cancer awareness, famously undergoing a colonoscopy procedure on-air on the Today show in 2000.
Just last month, Couric emphasized the importance of routine cancer screenings as she visited the hospital for her own colonoscopy, encouraging her followers over the age of 45 or with a first-line relative with a history of colorectal cancer to "please" get screened.
Van Der Beek underwent a colonoscopy in August 2023 that led to his diagnosis with stage 3 colorectal cancer, though he didn't publicly share the news until November 2024.
His wife, Kimberly, confirmed the news of his death on Wednesday, sharing in an Instagram post that her husband "met his final days with courage, faith, and grace."
Van Der Beek leaves behind his wife as well as their six children: Olivia, 15, Joshua, 13, Annabel, 12, Emilia, 9, Gwendolyn, 7 and Jeremiah, 4.
Related: James Van Der Beek Previously Addressed Noticeable Change in His Appearance Before Death
American Girl's Nostalgic Relaunch Has Fans Seriously Outraged
American Girl is stirring up emotions with another nostalgic announcement— and not all longtime fans of the brand are celebrating.
"Open a new chapter on beloved historical characters with the Modern Era™ Collection!" the brand announced on Instagram Feb. 11, 2026. The carousel of images featured pictures of the "Modern Era" new release dolls of the classic American Girl Dolls: Felicity, Josefina, Kirsten, Addy, Samantha, and Molly.
The latest collection has quickly sparked some snark from fans, particularly among collectors and readers deeply attached to the franchise’s original stories.
"Why does this feel like a hate crime," one Instagram user commented.
"Nooooo we like the classics and want the old outfits back," another echoed. "Listen to your millennial followers who are now buying stuff for their daughters."
Another suggested a way for the brand to introduce a new generation of fans to the classic dolls instead of revamping their looks entirely: release the American Girl Doll books in multiple formats.
"Build up the historical collections again to encourage literacy and love of history to your target demographic?" they said. "It worked for three generations before Alpha. There’s nothing to say it would not work again. You’ve lost the plot."
Speaking of books, the brand will release Samantha: The Next Chapter, which revisits Samantha Parkinson as a 25-year-old living in 1920s New York City, where she works to educate women about suffrage while navigating dramatic personal setbacks.
While readers are excited for this new book, the modernized take on the classic American Girl Dolls is something fans aren't too keen about right now. The rhetoric surrounding the brand's latest release affirms just how emotionally invested the American Girl community remains decades after many of the dolls first debuted. For collectors who grew up with the Pleasant Company era, the characters are more than products, they’re deeply nostalgic cultural touchstones.
For those interested in the Modern Era™ Collection, the rollout schedule is set as follows:
- Berry members: February 11
- AG Rewards™ members: February 12
- All fans: February 13
Whether viewed as a bold reinvention or a controversial departure, the launch has undeniably reignited conversation around American Girl’s classic historical characters—proving their enduring grip on fans both old and new.
RELATED: American Girl Is Giving These KPop Phenoms Their Own Dolls, and Fans Are Divided
'Single's Inferno' Season 5 Continues With a Flirty Reunion
Single's Inferno season 5 was competitive and dramatic. The finale left the panel declaring this was the best season of the Netflix dating show yet. Sometimes the singles record YouTube videos together after the season. But this season is getting a reunion, and it's coming soon!
Netflix K-Content's YouTube channel released a trailer for the reunion, which premieres February 14. The cast reacted to some of the episodes in a private theater. Choi Mina Suesat next to Lee Sung Hun and threw a pillow on the ground. She later asked if they could take a break.
Choi had a hard time in the inferno. She admitted to liking any guy who liked her, and her mind changed every day because of that. This frustrated Kim Min Gee, who was focused on Song Seung Il. Choi would tell her she wasn't interested in him one day, then later go to paradise with him. Kim confronted Choi and said she didn't know herself enough if she only like boys who like her. The trailer shows the women having another private conversation. "Thanks for reaching out," Kim told her.
They aren't the only ones with unfinished business. Lim Su Been was sought after throughout the season. Park Hee Sun liked him since the first day and continued to get to know him in the inferno. The trailer shows them talking privately. "I want to get to know you better," Been told Park. "Seems like I'm still interested in you." There are a couple more people who went to paradise, who reunite and flirt.
The finale of the dating show had everyone pick who they wanted in the end. There is one final match that might not of worked after all. Someone in the trailer said, "Maybe I should've tried to get closer to you." Thankfully, fans won't have to wait long to watch the conversations. The episode will be released on Netflix on February 14.
Get to Know Kimberly Van Der Beek, the 'Most Extraordinary Human' James Van Der Beek Ever Met
James Van Der Beek'swifeKimberly Van Der Beek helped keep him going.
The Dawson's Creek star died on Feb. 11, 2026, after battling colorectal cancer for more than two years.
On their 15th (and what would sadly be their last) anniversary in August 2025, James called Kimberly "the most extraordinary human" he ever met in a heartfelt Instagram post, adding, "One day I’ll tell the story of what you’ve endured these last two years and how you’ve shown up, time and time and time again. You have not only saved my life… you’ve shown me what it is to live. There are no words for how much I love and appreciate you. I could not do this without you."
Kimberly honored James when she announced his passing, writing, "Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace. There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend."
Get to know James Van Der Beek's widow and get a peek into their sweet (but all too short) love story.
Who is James Van Der Beek's wife? Kimberly and James Van Der Beek in February 2011Photo by Gregg DeGuire on Getty Images
James Van Der Beek was married to Kimberly Van Der Beek. They tied the knot in Tel Aviv, Israel, on Aug. 1, 2010, close to where they met (more on that in a minute!)
Kimberly has said she has "psychic dreams," and apparently James may literally have been her dream man: On their 13th anniversary, James took to Instagram to recount their whirlwind wedding, which was roughly a year after they first met.
"13 years ago today we were told that the guy who had come to you in a dream and had given you a wedding date could marry us - that night - in the basement of the Kabbalah Centre in Tel Aviv… on what happened to be the exact date he’d given you in the dream," he wrote. "We rushed to get ready, had a bunch of people we didn’t know (and a few we did) dance around us, got ambushed by Israeli paparazzi afterwards, then ate at an outdoor Lebanese dive with plastic tablecloths and chairs and amazing food… and we were off."
During their time together, the pair welcomed Olivia, 15, Annabel, 12, Emilia, 9½, and Gwendolyn, 7, and sons Joshua, 13, and Jeremiah, 4.
View this post on InstagramRelated: James Van Der Beek’s Wife Kimberly Last Shared Photo With Him Posted Days Before Christmas
How did James Van Der Beek meet his wife?James met Kimberly in 2009 when he was on a trip to Israel. While chatting with a friend in Tel Aviv about realizing he wanted to find a partner and start a family, Kimberly interrupted their conversation to ask his friend a question.
"I was annoyed. Who the hell was stepping all over my moment? I turned around... it was @vanderkimberly," he recalled on an Instagram post for their 10th anniversary. "Three days later, I asked her what she was looking for in a relationship. Her answer: 'I’m not looking for a relationship.' Six months later we were living together. Two weeks after that we were pregnant, and almost exactly one year to the date after she’d first interrupted me (on the spot where we’re standing in the last pic)... we were married."
View this post on InstagramRelated: James Van Der Beek Will Have One Final Role After His Death
Does James Van Der Beek's wife work?Before marrying the Varsity Blues star, Kimberly Van Der Beek was credited as an associate producer for the film Teenage Paparazzo. Entourage star Adrian Grenier directed the documentary, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2010.
From 2023 to 2024, she co-hosted The Bathroom Chronicles podcast.
Since then, Kimberly has largely focused on homeschooling her and James' six kids, as well as on being an influencer, and many find her content often considered controversial.
Rolling Stone reported that on her Instagram account at the height of the coronavirus pandemic, Kimberly often shared (then deleted) COVID-19conspiracy theories and COVID misinformation (including alleging that rapper DMX died from getting the COVID vaccine, which is patently false). She also was criticized for posting general anti-vaccine content and other health misinformation, including videos endorsing essential oils to cure ear infections and sharing posts that denounced antibiotics.
Following James' death, Kimberly and their six children were out of funds due to medical bills. A friend established a GoFundMe to help support the family as they both grieve the loss of their patriarch and learn to navigate their new normal.
Related: James Van Der Beek’s Net Worth at the Time of His Death
How many miscarriages did Kimberly Van Der Beek have?Kimberly has been open about having had five miscarriages, including two back-to-back, both at 17 ½ weeks.
“It’s so hard, but it’s important to talk about,” Kimberly told PEOPLE. “We wait so long to tell people that we are pregnant so the possibility of miscarriage has decreased. But in the meantime, you’re tired, you need help and you’re going through one of the wildest times of your life.”
James said of witnessing Kimberly go through the physical pain of their pregnancy losses, "There's a lot of shock, absolute dread, disbelief and then helplessness accompanied by fear. But you go through it and you take it breath by breath. You have to let it unfold at a pace that works for you."
Kimberly said that her grief from her pregnancy losses "comes in waves," explaining, "You can have in one moment complete and utter joy, and in another moment grief wants to wash over you. It can rear its head unexpectedly. And it does."
Despite eschewing most commonly accepted western medicine and science, when she had her two late-term miscarriages, she was hospitalized and underwent blood transfusions to save her life. After the experience, she and James released a video for the Red Cross encouraging blood donation.
"It's one of those donations that is most direct," James urged. "It doesn't cost any money and it's literally lifesaving. It's an amazing way to help out humanity in general."
Related: 30 Inspiring James Van Der Beek Quotes That Will Make You Contemplate Life and Love
Trader Joe’s Fans Are Raving Over This ‘Brilliant’ Fusion Food Hack
When it comes to popular grocery stores, everyone knows that Trader Joe’s has an impressive frozen food selection, especially their entrées.
In fact, plenty of people forgo cooking entirely to chow down solely on TJ’s frozen feasts. Some people, however, take it a step further by combining or even enhancing their microwavable dishes.
Taking to Reddit, one Trader Joe’s fan shared what they called a “pro life hack.”
“Trader Joe’s Indian frozen meals make great burritos,” the person captioned a photo of Trader Joe’s Paneer Tikka Masala transformed into a burrito with added lettuce, cilantro, and sour cream.
Of course, it didn’t take long before the thread blew up, receiving well over 2,000 upvotes and hundreds of comments. “Where has this been all my life?” one shopper wrote.
Related: The 15 Must-Buy Trader Joe’s Valentine’s Groceries, According to a Superfan
“This is brilliant. Making it immediately,” added another. “What an awesome idea!” a third user chimed in, while a fourth echoed, “Can’t wait to try this myself.”
Many TJ shoppers also contributed food hack ideas of their own, suggesting that you can never go wrong with Mexican and Indian flavors — and function! "I fold the garlic naan into a giant taco shape and fill it with butter chicken," a fifth TJ fan said.
Trader Joe's sells a wide variety of frozen Indian meals, including butter chicken, chicken tikka masala, lamb vindaloo, palak paneer, chana masala, and vegetable biryani.
In addition to Indian frozen entrées, some of Trader Joe's most popular microwavable selections include Mandarin orange chicken, mac and cheese, soup dumplings, fried rice, and cauliflower gnocchi.
Related: ‘Must Buy’ Trader Joe’s Frozen Dessert Returns For Limited-Time
Trader Joe's was founded in 1967 in Pasadena, California. Since opening, TJ has expanded to more than 560 stores across over 40 states and Washington, D.C.
If you're more of a sweets person, don't fret! Trader Joe's also offers a delectable selection of frozen desserts you can bake or warm up, including chocolate lava cakes, apple blossoms, New York-style cheesecake, almond kringle, bread pudding, and seasonal treats like pumpkin sticky toffee cakes and peppermint brownies.
Amazon Has a 'Soothing and Relaxing' Massage Recliner Chair on Sale for $93 That Makes Unwinding Easy
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After a long, full day, there’s nothing better than sinking into a cozy chair and letting tension melt away. Too often, sofas and similar seating options look stylish but fall short on comfort, leaving you wishing for a spot that matches your need to unwind. Imagine a cozy corner that instantly feels like your own at-home retreat, where you can recline, read, or simply let the stress of the day fade. If you’ve been searching for a way to create that kind of home oasis, this Sweetcrispy Massage Recliner Chair is a standout option.
Now marked down 37% from $150 to just $93 at Amazon, this lounger delivers cushioned comfort with soothing massage features. With its combination of style and relaxation, it instantly transforms any living room, bedroom, or nook into a spot that invites you to pause and unwind.
Sweetcrispy Massage Recliner Chair, From $93 (was $150) at AmazonWhether you’re sitting upright to tackle your to-do list, leaning back to binge your favorite series, or stretching nearly flat for a mid-afternoon nap, this chair effortlessly adjusts from 90 degrees to 160 degrees. A dual footrest and reclining back cradle provide solid, ergonomic support, letting your legs rest comfortably while your body is fully supported — no awkward leg dangling or shoulder slouching. Crafted with soft, breathable fabric and high-resilience sponge, the chair is plush and cushiony, and the sturdy hardwood frame keeps it steady and built to last.
But the real magic happens when you engage the chair’s massage functions. Eight distinct massage modes, two vibration settings, and fully adjustable intensity ensure that every inch of your back, shoulders, and lumbar region gets attention exactly where you want it. A built-in lumbar massage zone delivers targeted relief, while the intuitive remote makes it easy to customize a perfect 15-minute relaxation session tailored to your preferences.
Related: Wayfair Has the 'Most Comfortable' Barrel Chair and Ottoman Set on Sale for Nearly $400 Off
Shoppers are giving this massage recliner high marks for how “soothing and relaxing” it feels, allowing you to “unwind after a long day.” One fan wrote, “It was incredibly easy to put together, it glides with ease," and noted that "the mechanism to kick out the footstool is easy to use.”
Shop More Deals- Furniwell Massage Recliner Chair, $130 (was $200) at Amazon
- BestMassage Recliner Chair, $103 (was $123) at Walmart
- Homall Gaming Massage Recliner, $120 (was $144) at Amazon
For anyone craving a little self-care at home, the Sweetcrispy Massage Recliner Chair is a simple, more affordable way to make everyday relaxation possible. Snag it for just $93 while it’s 38% off at Amazon and transform your favorite corner into the ultimate cozy escape.
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James Van Der Beek’s Wife Kimberly Shared Haunting Message About His Cancer Months Before His Death
Just months before James Van Der Beek’s death following a long battle with Stage 3 colorectal cancer, the Dawson’s Creek star’s wife Kimberly was feeling optimistic about the actor’s health and prognosis, calling him a “wizard” who was “bouncing back” following his long health battle. According to the NY Post, Kimberly Van Der Beek’s haunting comments came just months before the actor’s death, untimely on February 11, 2026, at the age of 48.
According to the Post, Kimberly’s comments came on a November 2025 post of her husband’s in which he thanked fans for helping raise money for his cancer treatments. In response, Kimberly Van Der Beek wrote, “You’re a wizard. Bouncing back baby!!”
Fans of ’90s hits like Dawson’s Creek and Varsity Blues have responded with shock and heartbreak following Kimberly’s announcement Wednesday that her husband of 15 years had passed away. James Van Der Beek had bravely shared his ongoing cancer battle with fans through social media, even auctioning off signed Varsity Blues jerseys to help raise funds for his treatment.
View this post on InstagramWednesday, Kimberly took to social media to share a crushing blow to James Van Der Beek’s fans who had hoped Kimberly’s optimism this fall meant the beloved actor and father of six would make a full recovery. She writes:
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace. There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity, and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”
Related: '90s Actress Reflects on James Van Der Beek Being 'My First On-Screen Kiss'
Fans React to His PassingFans responded as if a member of their own family had died.
“I feel like a part of my childhood just died. Sending love and strength to his family and all those close to him ❤️❤️,” shared one fan. Another added, “Sending condolences and prayers to you, Kimberly, and your children. Bless you for sharing James with all of us, an incredibly special soul.”
Legacy of James Van Der Beek View this post on InstagramJames Van Der Beek not only made an impact on fans through his heartfelt performances on Dawson’s Creek, Varsity Blues, and even an episode of Nickelodeon’s Clarissa Explains It All, but the beloved actor, father, and husband graciously shared his ongoing battle with cancer, offering hope and resilience to those following along from home.