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'60s Rock Band Announces 2026 Tour Dates 62 Years After First No. 1 Hit
Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons are hitting the road!
The beloved rock-pop band's frontman and sole original remaining member, Frankie Valli, took to social media on Tuesday, Feb. 10, to share the news that the group—currently comprising himself, along with a set of instrumentalists—would be playing several dates through the end of winter and into spring 2026.
"The next stops are set. Frankie Valli is back on stage!" the post's caption read. Each show are set to present "a special evening with the original Jersey Boy, Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, bringing the songs that defined a generation to the stage," the crooner noted.
In the social media promo, six tour stops were announced, including two in California, as well as one in Newark, where The Four Seasons were formed in 1960—so it's bound to be special.
Check out the full lineup of dates and cities below:
• Feb 20 — Indio, CA · Fantasy Springs Resort Casino
• Feb 21 — Tucson, AZ · Linda Ronstadt Music Hall
• Feb 22 — Temecula, CA · Pechanga Resort & Casino
• Apr 24 — Hershey, PA · Hershey Theatre
• Apr 25 — Newark, NJ · New Jersey Performing Arts Center
• Apr 26 — Medford, MA · Chevalier Theatre
In the comments section, fans raved over Valli's announcement.
"Keep doing what you love boss! ❤️🎶," one note read, while one supporter used emojis alone to express their feelings: "❤️🥰👏👏👏!"
Many more simply campaigned for the music idol to come to a wider range of locations, with some asking for stops in London, Phoenix, England and Las Vegas.
Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons' Early CareerFrankie Valli and the Four Seasons rose to fame in the early 1960s with a distinctive sound built around Valli’s powerful falsetto and tightly arranged harmonies. Formed in New Jersey, the group originally struggled through lineup changes and modest releases before breaking through in 1962 with their first major hit, “Sherry.”
The song quickly climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, launching a remarkable run of chart success. They followed it with a string of smash singles, including “Big Girls Don’t Cry” and “Walk Like a Man,” both of which also reached No. 1 in the United States, solidifying the group as one of the defining pop acts of the decade.
Much of the Four Seasons’ early success was driven by their collaboration with songwriter-producer Bob Gaudio and lyricist Bob Crewe, who helped craft their polished yet energetic sound, blending doo-wop, rock, and pop. Throughout the mid-1960s, they continued delivering hits like “Rag Doll,” “Let’s Hang On!,” and “Working My Way Back to You,” maintaining strong chart performance.
Their consistent radio presence, recognizable vocal style, and crossover appeal helped Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons become one of the best-selling American groups of the 1960s, leaving a lasting influence on pop and vocal harmony music.
Next: '80s Rock Legend's No. 1 Best-Selling Song of All Time Released 43 Years Ago Today
I Made Homemade Reese’s Peanut Butter Hearts and They’re Way Easier Than I Expected
Every year, like clockwork, Reese’s peanut butter hearts hit shelves around Valentine’s Day, and people get very excited about them (to say the least). Chocolate lovers hoard them and passionately insist that they taste better than regular Reese’s cups.
Maybe it’s the lovable heart shape. Maybe it’s the peanut butter-to-chocolate ratio. Maybe it’s the thrill of finding a limited-edition item before it sell outs (or before it's replaced by Reese's peanut butter eggs). Whatever the reason, Reese's hearts have reached cult-classic status, and when you can’t find them, the disappointment is real.
So when I came across a homemade version of Reese's peanut butter hearts shared by content creator Meaghan Williamson, my interest was piqued. Could you really recreate that iconic peanut butter treat at home? And would it actually satisfy that chocolate-PB heart craving when the real ones are nowhere to be found? I set out to answer these questions myself by making Williamson's recipe, and I even compared my homemade treats to actual Reese's hearts to see which was better.
Requiring just a few simple ingredients and no baking and giving you the option to make them as big or small as you desire, these homemade peanut butter hearts might just be the solution when you can't find your beloved candy. My whole family may or may not be obsessed with them at this point, too. Read on to learn how to make them yourself.
Related: I Just Made Peanut Butter Cups at Home and I Feel Like a Genius
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It takes a little more than just chocolate and peanut butter to make a Reese's Peanut Butter Heart (or a Reese's cup in general). Ingredients in one standard Reese's heart include peanuts, milk chocolate (which consists of sugar, cocoa butter, chocolate, skim milk, milk fat, lactose, lecithin and PGPR (a type of emulsifier)), sugar, dextrose, vegetable oil and a small amount of other ingredients like salt, protein whey, skim milk, cocoa, TBHQ and citric acid (preservatives) and vanillin, which is an artificial flavor. Whew! That's quite a few ingredients for a single treat.
Courtesy Angel Albring
Related: I Made No-Bake ‘Twix Bites’ and I’m Never Going Back to Store-Bought
Why Do Reese’s Hearts Taste Different Than Reese's Peanut Butter Cups?The seasonal Reese's shapes tend to have a thicker, softer and almost creamier peanut butter center compared to standard cups, which is a big reason why fans swear they taste better. There’s also no rigid cup edge, so each bite is a bit smoother than the classic cups. Whether it’s science, nostalgia or all in our heads, Reese's hearts (and eggs and trees) simply hit different.
@mindfullymademotherhoodReese’s PB Christmas Hearts ⬇️ Store-bought Reese’s Hearts have over 20 ingredients, including artificial flavors and preservatives. Most people don’t realize they’re loaded with processed oils and unnecessary additives. It’s way easier (and cleaner) to just make your own at home. Ingredients: -3/4 cup natural peanut butter -2/3 cup almond flour (additional 1-2 tbsp if needed) -¼ cup pure maple syrup -½ cup chocolate chips -1 teaspoon coconut oil Instructions: -In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, almond flour, and maple syrup. Stir until smooth and dough-like. -Press out the “dough” to your desired thickness onto parchment paper. Then place it in the freezer for 5–10 minutes to firm up. -In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate and coconut oil together, stirring constantly until smooth. -Remove “dough” from the freezer. Using a heart cookie cutter cut out trees. Dip each peanut butter heart into the melted chocolate using a fork or spoon. Let any excess drip off, then place them on a parchment-lined tray or plate. -Transfer the chocolate-coated heart to the freezer and let them chill until fully set (about 15–20 minutes). -Store extras in the fridge or freezer. #homemaderecipe #momhacks #toddlersnacks
♬ Man I Need - Olivia DeanRelated: Enjoy Girl Scout Cookies All Year Long With These 27 Copycat Recipes
Ingredients for Homemade Reese's Peanut Butter HeartsTo DIY this treat, I followed Williamson's recipe, which calls for a few simple ingredients. You'll need almond flour, maple syrup, natural peanut butter, chocolate chips and coconut oil. As for tools, you will also need a heart-shaped cookie cutter and parchment paper.
Courtesy Angel Albring
Related: We Baked Cookies With 13 Different Chocolate Chip Brands and The Winner Shocked Us
How To Make Homemade Reese's Peanut Butter HeartsCourtesy Angel Albring
Start by mixing the almond flour, maple syrup and peanut butter until a thick dough forms. Roll the mixture out on parchment paper, then freeze it for about 10 minutes so it firms up.
Courtesy Angel Albring
Once chilled, use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out your hearts. The original recipe uses a mini cutter, but I went with a regular-size one for jumbo hearts.
Courtesy Angel Albring
Next, melt the chocolate with a little coconut oil until smooth. Dip each heart into the chocolate, coating it fully, then place them back on parchment paper and freeze again until set.
And that's it! No baking required, no special tools necessary and no fancy ingredients here. Although the freezing does take a little patience, there's no denying how quickly these treats came together.
Related: Pastry Chefs Reveal When You Should Actually Use Parchment Paper vs. Wax Paper
Homemade Reese's Peanut Butter Hearts: My Honest ReviewMy whole house thinks these homemade hearts tasted better than OG Reese's. The peanut butter flavor was richer, the texture was softer and the chocolate coating was just right (probably because we used dark chocolate). Immediately, my kids and my husband preferred these over the store-bought version, and that's saying something given how good actual Reese's are.
Courtesy Angel Albring
Considering just how easy these homemade hearts were to make, how delicious they turned out and how they rely mostly on pantry staples, I'd absolutely make these again. Plus, they make for a fun activity that the kids can get in on and enjoy.
Related: The Secret Ingredient for the Richest, Most Delicious Chocolate Cake
3 Tips for Making Chocolate Peanut Butter Hearts1. Choose your peanut butter wiselyUsing a natural peanut will give you the best-tasting filling (just be sure you stir it thoroughly). If you want a smooth filling, go for smooth peanut butter. Like a little texture? Choose a crunchy peanut butter.
2. Handle the chocolate with careLow and slow is the way to go when melting chocolate. Consider heating the chocolate over a double boiler, or if you use the microwave, heat the chocolate in short 20-second bursts to avoid burning it.
3. Consider the size of your cookie cuttersIf you use a regular-size cookie cutter, like I did, make sure you use a bowl that will allow you to dip the whole peanut butter heart into it. My hearts didn't get fully covered because my bowl was a little too small for the heart to rest in the bottom, but if you used a smaller cookie cutter, this wouldn't be an issue. Also, once the hearts are frozen with the chocolate coating, you can use the cookie cutter again to help straighten up the edges.
Up Next:
James Van Der Beek’s Wife Kimberly Was His ‘Strength’ a ‘DWTS’ Pro Once Said
James Van Der Beek’s Dancing with the Stars partner, Emma Slater, once opened up about the deep bond she witnessed between the actor and his wife, Kimberly, describing her as his “strength.”
In a 2019 interview with PEOPLE Magazine, Slater discussed a heartbreaking moment that played out in real time while the actor was a competitor on the reality series. He and his wife, Kimberly, suffered a miscarriage. Despite their loss, Kimberly wanted Van Der Beek to continue dancing.
“Honestly, his strength is Kimberly, his wife,” Slater said of the couple's bond. “[Kimberly’s] the most inspirational, high-spirited person I know.”
She added that despite their loss, the actor continued in the competition for his family and Kimberly. "She was not having it, him staying at home,” Slater said.
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The happiness and well-being of his family were of the utmost importance to the actor. He and Kimberly had six children together, including Olivia (b. 2010), Joshua (b. 2012), Annabel (b. 2014), Emilia (b. 2016), Gwendolyn (b. 2018), and Jeremiah (b. 2021).
In 2020, the clan moved from California to a ranch in the Austin, Texas area. The former Dawson's Creek star told Good Morning America in 2023 that his brood was enjoying life away from the hustle and bustle of the industry.
"Sunsets are our favorite. We've got a great spot where we can go watch the sun go down, and the kids can play. I put up a bunch of ropes in the trees, and they can run around, swing, kick the soccer ball, and throw the football. There is no shortage of things to do for sure."
The actor added that his role as a father was to "take care of them, to make them feel safe, to keep them safe, to connect with them and feel that joy. Your life becomes shared, and your joys become shared joys, and in a really beautiful way, that expands your level of circuitry out to other people instead of just keeping it all for your own gratification."
Van Der Beek was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2023, but did not reveal the news publicly until 2024. In December 2025, he explained how cancer had changed his outlook on life to TODAY.
"Before cancer, I took all these little moments as a collective. Now I am able to settle into that exact moment," he explained. "Presence is the gift cancer has given me."
View this post on InstagramJames Van Der Beek died at 48. His death was announced with a post on his official Instagram page on Wednesday, Feb. 11.
"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."
New Book Details Terrifying Inspiration Behind 'Silence of the Lambs' Hannibal Lecter
To this day, few characters continue to chill audiences to the very core as fully as Thomas Harris' insidious serial killer, Dr. Hannibal Lecter.
Brilliantly brought to life by everyone from Brian Cox and Mads Mikkelsen to an Oscar-winning performance from Anthony Hopkins, Lecter will forever haunt the greater annals of pop culture, living on in the same vein as other fictional horror movie baddies as Freddy Krueger, Jason Voorhees and Michael Myers.
But who is the man behind the bite-proof mask? Brian Raftery's new nonfiction book, Hannibal Lecter: A Life, answers that very question, detailing Lecter's initial creation, as well as the real world inspiration that triggered his inception.
In his book, Raftery maps out the course of author Harris' career, back from his early childhood all the way to his recent literary ventures. Throughout it all, the writer also closely analyzes the writing process behind Harris' best-selling Hannibal series, including the most likely inspiration behind Lecter's living counterpart.
According to Raftery, Harris' initial idea behind Lecter likely came from a journalism assignment the writer was covering in 1960s Monterrey, Mexico. At the time, the young Harris encountered a mysterious man he believed to be the prison's doctor, a man Harris only referred to as "Dr. Salazar."
"This man was very, very smart," Raftery quoted Harris as saying. "And he had a gravity about him. Very courteous, very quick."
After a brief exchange between the two that showcased the doctor's profound psychological insight and intelligence, Harris inquired to the prison about how long the doctor had been working at the facility.
"You don't know who that is?" the warden exclaimed, revealing Salazar was actually an inmate at the prison. "The doctor is a murderer. As a surgeon, he could package his victim in a surprisingly small box. He will never leave this place. He is insane."
For decades afterwards, Harris has coyly avoided naming any direct influence between Dr. Salazar (later identified by Vice as Alfredo Balli Trevino) on Lecter, once commenting to a New York Times reporter that people like Lecter were all around them.
However, the interaction clearly had a deep impact on Harris' writing, with Raftery going on to say, "Harris never forgot the chilly, talkative, maroon-eyed prison he'd met in that small cell in Mexico – the killer with a keen insight into the ways of murders and murderers."
Reality Star Breaks Down Over Feeling 'Sad and Lonely' Amid a Brutal Year
Teddi Mellencamp broke down on this week's episode of "Two Ts In A Pod with Teddi Mellencamp and Tamra Judge" speaking about a deeply emotional chapter in her life, sharing how the past year has taken a heavier toll than she ever expected.
"I just feel really sad and lonely," Mellencamp said, 44, offering a raw glimpse into the challenges she’s been facing.
"It’s been a year since all of this happened and I know I should be so grateful. I don’t even have my memories from before…I miss having a family unit and doing things together as a family."
Over the last year, Mellencamp’s life has been marked by significant personal upheaval. In addition to navigating her highly publicized divorce, the former Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star has also been dealing with a serious health journey, including her ongoing battle with melanoma. Mellencamp has previously been transparent about undergoing multiple procedures and treatments following her diagnosis, often using her platform to raise awareness about skin cancer.
Despite her resilience, Mellencamp admitted the emotional recovery has been harder than anticipated.
"I thought I was going to be better than I am now," she shared.
Mellencamp also revealed the physical and mental strain of her medical treatments, dreading immunotherapy sessions, not because of the medication itself, but due to the difficulty of administering it.
According to Mellencamp, medical staff often struggle to locate her veins, making the process stressful and uncomfortable. While a port could make treatments easier, she said she is reluctant to take that step.
Perhaps most heartbreaking, Mellencamp described how her health challenges have affected everyday moments with her children.
"I can’t even plan little things I used to love to do," she said, explaining that even organizing spring break activities for her kids has become overwhelming.
Close friend and podcast co-host Tamra Judge offered words of encouragement, reassuring Mellencamp that this difficult period is temporary and expressing confidence that she will soon be cancer-free.
As she continues her treatments, Mellencamp’s candid reflections highlight the often unseen emotional side of both divorce and serious illness. Listen to new episodes of "Two Ts In A Pod" wherever you stream podcasts.
James Van Der Beek Was One Busy Dad: Inside the 'Dawson's Creek' Actor's Life With Six Kids
James Van Der Beek was forever seared into our collective brains as Dawson Leery, especially after the emotional but celebratory Dawson's Creekshow reunion in September 2025 that Van Der Beek had to miss because of his struggles battling cancer.
But to his six kids, he's just Dad. The actor, who shares his large brood with wife Kimberly Van Der Beek, has said that having kids changed "everything" for him.
"What you genuinely want is to take care of them, to make them feel safe, to keep them safe, to connect with them and feel that joy," he told Good Morning America in May 2023. "Your life becomes shared and your joys become shared joys, and in a really beautiful way, that expands your level of circuitry out to other people instead of just keeping it all for your own gratification."
"The lessons," he said, "they keep on coming." Those lessons were especially important for Van Der Beek when he was diagnosed with cancer in 2023. Sadly, after a long battle with the disease, he passed away on Feb. 11, 2026.
Read on for more about Van Der Beek's very big, very close-knit, and very supportive family.
Related: James Van Der Beek’s Wife Speaks Out After He Dropped Out of ‘Dawson’s Creek’ Reunion
How many kids did James Van Der Beek have? View this post on InstagramVan Der Beek and his wife shared six children, who ranged in age from 15 to 4: Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn and Jeremiah.
Who is the mother of James Van Der Beek's kids? View this post on InstagramThe Varsity Blues actor shared all six of his children with his second wife, Kimberly, whom he met in 2009 while on an organized trip to Israel. The pair fell for each other fast and got married on Aug. 1, 2010, when Kimberly was pregnant with their first child.
In celebration of their 14-year anniversary in 2024, Van Der Beek wrote to his wife on Instagram, "Thank you for being the most incredible partner. You’ve broken me open in spots I didn’t even know were locked, and taught me how to receive more love than I thought possible."
In addition to being a mom of six, Kimberly is a social media influencer and the co-host of the Bathroom Chronicles podcast, an interview series with spiritual advisor Peggy Rometo that taps into the "honest, hilarious, revealing conversations women have in the bathroom."
Who are James Van Der Beek's kids? View this post on Instagram Olivia Van Der Beek (Sept. 25, 2010)Van Der Beek's oldest child, Olivia, was born in September 2010. The actor shared with People that her name holds a special significance for him and his wife. "We wanted her to come out and then see what her name would be," he said. "She looked like an Olivia...there's an olive tree in Israel that's special to us."
His wife added, "We spent time under it when we first met in Israel."
Olivia, now 15, has expressed an interest in fashion design, among other creative pursuits, and has been known to rib her dad for his infamous Dawson's Creek "cry face."
"For some online learning, we got them iPads and they immediately discovered memes," Van Der Beek explained in an interview with People: "... My eldest sent me a meme of myself. She immediately hit me with the cry face. I thought, ‘That’s aggressive.'"
View this post on Instagram Joshua Van Der Beek (March 13, 2012)Van Der Beek and Kimberly's family expanded two years later when son Joshua, now 13, joined in the fun.
Joshua's birth was a dramatic one for the family. In an essay for People, Kimberly shared that she found out her baby boy was breech (i.e., positioned feet-first) at 37 weeks. After trying natural ways to turn her baby ahead of delivery, Kimberly found a doctor who was confident he could help her have a vaginal birth (rather than a C-section), breech or not.
"I truly believe a woman should be able to plan to birth where and how she is most comfortable," she wrote. "In order to make such a decision, it’s crucial to have options."
What's the oldest Van Der Boy like? Among other things, it seems he can read people pretty well. "My son can sniff out when we walk into a restaurant and somebody recognizes me—the skill that took me like 20 years to learn," Van Der Beek told People in 2022. "And he just gets it: 'Daddy, those ladies at the table right now? They know.' It's interesting."
View this post on Instagram Annabel Leah Van Der Beek (Jan. 25, 2014)After Annabel was born in 2014, Van Der Beek shared on The Talk the kismet-ish way he and his wife arrived at her name.
"We had not had a single discussion about a name before the baby was born," he revealed. "I said, 'By the way, do you have a name?' She said, 'Well, only one name came to me.' I said, 'Yeah only one name came to me too.' And it was the same name."
The actor also credited Annabel, now 11, with being their "easiest baby," adding, "I think she knew that we couldn’t handle any more than that."
View this post on Instagram Emilia Van Der Beek (March 23, 2016)The Van Der Beek family welcomed Baby No. 4 in 2016.
Dad once praised his 9-year-old daughter for her "innate wisdom," "inner strength" and "sense of humor," among other things.
"'Where did she come from?' is a question often asked about you," he said of Emilia, "and while it’s not for us to know, I’m SO glad you chose to spend your earth side journey with us this go-round. I love you with all my heart and soul, kiddo." Aww!
View this post on Instagram Gwendolyn Van Der Beek (June 15, 2018)Van Der Beek celebrated the arrival of his daughter Gwendolyn in 2018.
For her sixth birthday in 2024, Van Der Beek wrote on Instagram, "In a family of big personalities, you are the biggest. Whether you’re making astute observations about the world, talking smack, or just playing to see what kind of reaction you get…moments with you are never, ever dull—they are treasured."
He continued, "At the core of all that sauciness…is the most tender, gentle, loving heart. You melt me on the daily. I don’t know how you are real, but boy am I grateful you are."
View this post on Instagram Jeremiah Van Der Beek (Oct. 10, 2021)After experiencing two heartbreaking, late-term pregnancy losses, the actor and his wife were thrilled to welcome Jeremiah into their home.
Van Der Beek posted a video of their newborn on Instagram to celebrate his arrival. "Humbled and overjoyed to announce the safe, happy arrival of Jeremiah Van Der Beek," he wrote. "...After experiencing late-term #pregnancyloss twice in a row (both at 17+ weeks), we kept this one quiet. Truthfully, I was terrified when I found out."
On the child's second birthday, Van Der Beek wrote, "Two years ago today. We were done having kids. We'd 'closed the birth portal.' And then you came kicking down the door, in your signature style. Because we needed you. And you knew it. Grateful every day for you, bubs."
He added: "Thank you for teaching me what it is to live life with unapologetic joy, and hopeful abandon."
Did James Van Der Beek lose a child? View this post on InstagramVan Der Beek and Kimberly were open about experiencing five miscarriages throughout their parenting journey, including two back-to-back, late-term pregnancy losses before the birth of their youngest child, Jeremiah.
The first of those late-term losses happened just before Van Der Beek was eliminated from Dancing with the Starsin November 2019.
"Wrecked. Devastated. In shock," he said on Instagram. "That’s how we’re feeling right now after the soul we thought were going to welcome into our family in April...has taken a short cut to whatever lies beyond this life. We’ve been through this before, but never this late in the pregnancy, and never accompanied by such a scary, horrific threat to @vanderkimberly and her well-being. Grateful that she’s now recovering, but we’ve only just begun unpacking the layers of this one."
Related: See the Cast of Dawson's Creek Then and Now
Where did James Van Der Beek and his family live?Van Der Beek and his family moved from Los Angeles, California, to Austin, Texas, in 2020. "We've got a great spot where we can go watch the sun go down and the kids can play," he told once Good Morning America.
"I put up a bunch of ropes in the trees and they can run around and swing and kick the soccer ball and throw the football. There is no shortage of things to do, for sure."
Did James Van Der Beek and his wife try to have more kids? View this post on InstagramFollowing the birth of his youngest child, Jeremiah, Van Der Beek shared on Instagram that he and his wife weren't trying to have more kids at the time of his youngest's conception.
"We weren’t trying for more kids. We were done. But fortunately, this chunky little angel knew better," he said. "And when I hold him, I’m reminded of the benevolent forces out there likely laughing at my agenda...Thank god for surprises…and thank god we SUCK at not getting pregnant."
It's unclear how the Van Der Beeks feel about expanding their family today. Time will tell!
Related: James Van Der Beek's Net Worth at the Time of His Death
'DWTS' Pro Emma Slater 'Devastated' by James Van Der Beek's Death
The Dancing With the Stars family—and really, the entire television world—is mourning the loss of James Van Der Beek.
His wife Kimberlyshared a statement on Instagram, 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.”
RELATED: Emma Slater's Lengthy Tribute to James Van Der Beek Will Break Your Heart
Among the first to respond was his former DWTS partner, Emma Slater.
Slater and Van Der Beek competed together on season 28 of Dancing With the Stars, ultimately finishing in fifth place. The pair formed a close bond during their time on the show, with Van Der Beek frequently speaking about how meaningful the experience was for him and his family.
Reacting in the comments, Slater wrote, “I’m so devastated. He is and will always be family to me ❤️ love you so much, James. The man that you are, you can be proud of. So grateful that I got to be there to say goodbye to you.”
RELATED: 'DWTS' Pro Emma Slater Sends a Powerful Message Ahead of Season 34
Other Dancing With the Stars pros also shared tributes.
Jenna Johnson commented, “An incredible father, husband, artist, and so much more. Sending your family all the love and comfort ♥️.”
Sasha Farber added, “An incredible man loved by every person he crossed paths with, sending the family love.”
The Dawson's Creek star had been open in recent years about his stage 3 colorectal cancer diagnosis, which he first publicly revealed in November 2024 after privately navigating the illness for nearly a year.
RELATED: 'DWTS' Pro Emma Slater Hasn’t ‘Recovered From Saying Goodbye’ to One Cast Member
In an exclusive interview with Parade, the actor spoke candidly about how the diagnosis reshaped his priorities and deepened his gratitude for his family.
“I joked that I’m the only guy who got cancer and said, ‘You know what I’ve realized is I need to work more,’” he said, explaining how his passion for storytelling was reignited during treatment.
He also reflected on his marriage to Kimberly, calling their relationship a source of strength. “I’m more in love than ever, and more in awe of her than ever,” Van Der Beek shared. “It’s really been an absolute gift.”
The actor often emphasized that his wife and their six children were “the center” of his life. He spoke about resilience, community and the importance of asking for help during the most difficult chapters of his health journey.
Even while undergoing treatment, Van Der Beek continued working on projects and raising awareness about colorectal cancer screening, urging others not to wait for symptoms before speaking with their doctors.
Now, as tributes continue to pour in from friends, colleagues and fans, it is clear the impact he made stretched far beyond the ballroom floor.
Slater’s words capture the feeling shared by many who knew him: he wasn’t just a co-star. He was family.
The Real Reason Why #OneChicago Shows Are Not on Tonight
If it’s Wednesday night, it’s normally #OneChicago night on NBC with back-to-back episodes of Chicago Med, Chicago Fire, and Chicago P.D making up the night’s entertainment, jam-packed with stories about the heroic first responders in the Windy City.
But for the next several Wednesday nights – Feb. 11 and Feb. 18 – the 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. timeslot will be filled with coverage of the 2026 Winter Olympics.
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The #OneChicago lineup won’t return with new episodes until March 4, but it will be worth the wait as it will be a special night with #OneChicago crossovers, requiring a slight flipping of the schedule.
Rather than the night kicking off with Chicago Med, it will begin at 8 p.m. with Chicago Fire, followed by Med, and finally at 10 p.m,. Chicago P.D.
Photo by: NBCUniversal
The official logline for the night reads: “Firehouse 51 is called to an airfield when a passenger jet suddenly goes silent mid-air, triggering a high-stakes emergency. Their discovery cracks open a bigger and deadlier mystery — one with consequences that could ripple far beyond the runway and put countless lives in jeopardy.”
Related:Chicago P.D. Alums Jesse Lee Soffer and Tracy Spiridakos Return for #OneChicago Crossover
Making the night even more special is the return of Jesse Lee Soffer and Tracy Spiridakos to their Chicago P.D. roles – Jay Halstead and Hailey Upton respectively — for the occasion.
View this post on InstagramDeadlinewas the first to report the return of the duo, sharing this official description: Upton “returns to her former stomping grounds, but this time on the federal level as a Special Agent of the FBI. She joins her former P.D. allies after a drug enforcement task force case out of her Detroit field office leads her back to Chicago.”
It will turn out that Halstead has “been deep undercover, leading him on a path to the same case that Upton is investigating,” so it will give fans a chance to see the former married couple reunited after their off-screen breakup.
Next, Chicago P.D. Boss Teases ‘Chaotic’ and Pulse-Pounding Midseason Return (Exclusive)
James Van Der Beek Reflected on Faith and 'Self Love' in Emotional Interview Weeks Before His Death
Shortly before his heartbreaking death, Dawson's Creek star James Van Der Beek opened about about his cancer journey in an interview with Craig Melvin for Today. Now in the wake of the actor's death, things he shared in that interview seem especially tragic.
Today aired its interview with Van Der Beek on December 19, 2025. He recalled learning of his cancer diagnosis as he came out of surgery and was still under anesthesia.
"As soon as I heard the news, I thought, 'This is going to be the best thing that ever happened to me,'" Van Der Beek revealed.
View this post on InstagramHe explained that he immediately heard a voice in his head telling him that he was going to "make changes in your life that you would never, ever make if you didn't have this extreme of a diagnosis.
Van Der Beek added that before the diagnosis, "I don't think I knew what it was to slow down before."
He noted that he felt the biggest change he embraced after the diagnosis was a "journey of self love."
The diagnosis also shifted how Van Der Beek thought of faith. He acknowledged that before he learned he had cancer, "God was something I tried to fit into my life as much as possible."
After the diagnosis, Van Der Beek came to feel that his connection to God, whatever that looked like, was "the whole point of this exercise on this planet."
Van Der Beek told Melvin that after going public with his diagnosis, it became "overwhelming" to find he had so many people praying for him and supporting him. "I never expected that," he revealed.
"I never stopped to appreciate what I've done," Van Der Beek realized. Everybody's support, all of the messages of prayer and love, meant a great deal to the Dawson's Creek star, he shared.
James Van Der Beek Cause of Death: What We Know So Far
James Van Der Beek, best known for his breakout role as Dawson Leery on Dawson’s Creek, has died at 48, TMZ confirmed on Wednesday, February 11. A representative for the Travis County Medical Examiner's Office told the outlet his death was reported at 6:44 a.m., and his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, also confirmed the news in a statement shortly after news broke.
James Van Der Beek’s cause of deathAt this time, no formal cause of death has been provided by the medical examiner. The actor had shared his cancer diagnosis with fans in late 2024, opening up about his health journey while continuing to work when possible.
In September 2025, he was expected to reunite with his Dawson’s Creek cast mates but ultimately had to withdraw due to health complications related to his treatment. His absence from the reunion was one of the first public signs that his condition had worsened.
His wife shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram with the statement: "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."
View this post on Instagram His medical battleVan Der Beek disclosed on November 3, 2024 that he was fighting colorectal cancer, a diagnosis that forced him to scale back professional commitments.
“I’ve been dealing with this privately until now, getting treatment and dialing in my overall health with greater focus than ever before,” he wrote on Instagram. “I’m in a good place and feeling strong. It’s been quite the initiation, and I’ll tell you more when I’m ready”.
View this post on InstagramThough he remained largely private about the specifics of his treatment, he had expressed gratitude for his family and supporters during the difficult period, specifically his wife, Kimberly. “I’m gonna lose it. She’s been amazing. She’s really taught me what unconditional love is,” he revealed to Good Morning America in December 2024.
Van Der Beek’s legacyVan Der Beek rose to fame in the late 1990s as the earnest, aspiring filmmaker at the center of Dawson’s Creek, a role that helped define an era of teen television.
He later appeared in projects including Varsity Blues, CSI: Cyber, and The Rules of Attraction, proving he’s more than the heartthrob image that first made him a household name.
James Van Der Beek's Final Social Media Post Before His Death Is Heartbreaking
James Van Der Beek has died after a battle with cancer, and a look back at his final post on social media is a heartbreaking reminder of the void the major loss will leave in the lives of his children and family members.
In the Instagram upload, shared on Jan. 25, 2026, the actor included photos of two very important people in his life in two separate photos: his daughter, Annabel, 11, and his father. The close family members share a birthday, something Van Der Beek acknowledged in his beautiful and sentimental caption celebrating the duo.
"My father and my daughter share a birthday today. At first, I thought that was all they shared - they seemed so different to me," he admitted at the time in the opening of the note. "But as the two of you have evolved, and let more of who you are shine through, I can recognize the same open, warm, loving, gentle heart. I see the care and dedication you shower upon those you love most. I see the same out-of-the-box Aquarian creativity and originality."
The cover photo is a sweet image of the Dawson's Creek star leaning over onto his daughter's head, while the second snap is of Annabel sharing a warm embrace with her grandfather as they sat on a couch together.
"You both have a way of alchemizing the vibe around you in such a subtle way one can almost miss how powerfully you do this. In this crazy world, it’s a wonder to me that you’ve managed to stay so open, so tender, and so genuinely good," Van Der Beek's post shared of his loved ones, adding, "You are marvels… and I’m so insanely grateful to have you in my life."
He closed with, " I love you with all my heart ❤️."
View this post on InstagramThe post is an indication of the family man the actor was, and fans in the comments section could see the love in his eyes, despite his physical appearance due to his health battle. The actor sadly leaves behind six children and his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek.
James Van Der Beek died at the age of 48 on Wednesday, Feb. 11, after complications from stage 3 colorectal cancer, which he had been privately battling before publicly announcing the diagnosis in November 2024.
His family sharing a statement via Instagram, expressing, "He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace."
James Van Der Beek Will Have One Final Role After His Death
James Van Der Beek died at the age of 48 after a public battle with cancer, but fans of the actor will have one final chance to see him on screen in his last role.
The late actor had one project coming up at the time of his death, as he is set to play the character Dean Wilson in the highly anticipated Legally Blonde prequel TV series called Elle.
According to a report from Variety about his casting last spring, Van Der Beek's character is described as "the city’s new Mayoral candidate and current school district superintendent," although no further details about the role have been shared.
View this post on InstagramThe show's first season is already completely filmed, and a premiere date is set for July 1 on Prime Video. Only three weeks ago, executive producer Reese Witherspoon, who starred as Elle in the Legally Blonde film, revealed the premiere date and the news that the show was already renewed for a second season.
Elle stars Lexi Minetree as the title character, while other cast members include Jessica Belkin, Kyra Wong, Bobby Stewart, Danielle Chand, Tom Everett Scott and more.
It's unclear if there were plans for Van Der Beek to reprise his character in the second season and whether or not his death will force a change of plans.
View this post on InstagramLast year, Van Der Beek excitedly shared the news about his return to acting with fans, writing on social media, "So, this is exciting… I’m going back to work for a bit. Super excited to join this awesome cast in such a fun project. Almost as excited as my wife and girls are that I’m doing this 😍 #LegallyBlond #Elle."
Witherspoon cheered him on at the time, writing, "YES!! Best news ever ! Welcome to our show 💖."
While many fans are mourning Van Der Beek's death after the news was announced today, there's at least one more new performance from the late actor that they can look forward to later this year.
James Van Der Beek’s Family Speaks Out Following His Death at 48
James Van Der Beek’s family is speaking out following the actor’s death at age 48.
TMZ was first to report the news on Wednesday, Feb. 11. A rep for the Travis County Medical Examiner's Office told the outlet Van Der Beek's death was reported to them at 6:44 a.m. Wednesday morning.
No cause of death was given, however, the Dawson's Creek alum had been battling stage 3 colorectal cancer since 2023.
RELATED: James Van Der Beek Dead at 48
Shortly after the news broke, Van Der Beek's family posted a message to his Instagram confirming his passing and asking for privacy.
"Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning," the caption read. "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."
View this post on InstagramVan Der Beek is survived by his wife, Kimberly, and their six children: Olivia, 15; Joshua, 13; Annabel, 12; Emilia, 9; Gwendolyn, 6; and Jeremiah, 4.
RELATED: James Van Der Beek Shared Excitement About His ‘Next Act’ Just Months Before His Death (Exclusive)
Macy's Has a 'Glam' 4-Piece Clinique Lipstick Gift Set on Sale for Just $18
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Valentine's Day is swiftly approaching, which means you may be breaking out your best red makeup shades to celebrate. Macy's is home to plenty of beauty staples, and right now ahead of the weekend you can get great markdowns on gift sets, for yourself or your loved ones. If lipsticks are top of mind, you may want to have a look at the Clinique Plenty of Pop: Pop Longwear Lipstick Set.
This beautifully packaged quartet is just made for gifting. Because you get several options, you could also potentially split them between loved ones (or just add them to your own makeup bag). Right now, this fun set is marked down from its usual $35 to just $18 — one of the lowest prices we've seen. It's such a great opportunity to pick up four of the brand's bestselling lip formulas for a steal.
Clinique Plenty of Pop: Pop Longwear Lipstick Set, $18 (was $35) at Macy'sWith legions of fans, the lipstick has hundreds of five-star reviews from loyal users who praised everything from the creamy finish to the staying power. In this set, you'll also get to experience the diversity of the range. It comes with four colors, including Nude Pop, Love Pop, Cherry Pop, and Plum Pop.
Related: 9 Best Mature Beauty Gifts for Valentine’s Day From Our 49-Year-Old Beauty Editor
All of the colors in the collection offer intense color payoff that lasts thanks to a built-in primer that essentially locks it in for the long haul — at least eight hours! With just enough shine to feel special without being overpowering, these colors offer both glamour and comfort in a single swipe across your lips. And with four colors across the spectrum in the mix, you'll have options for both day and night wear.
"The colors are beautiful and excellent quality," one shopper wrote. "Very creamy, and they stay for hours!" Another person called it their "go-to everyday lipstick." They noted that it's "moisturizing, yet light" and that it can give "subtle color for low-key glam." If you prefer a deeper color, it's easy to build up for even more intensity, too.
Shop More Deals- Hydrated Skin Serum Set, $25 (was $50) at Macy's
- Style & Co. Crewneck Colorblocked Sweater, $20 (was $50) at Macy's
- Kipling Sabian Mini Crossbody Bag, $20 (was $54) at Macy's
At this price, the Clinique Plenty of Pop: Pop Longwear Lipstick Set is moving fast — and now is such a great time to take advantage of the deal. Pick it up for 50% off while it's on sale.
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.
James Van Der Beek's Wife Kimberly Shared Last Photo With Him Days Before Christmas
James Van Der Beek, beloved actor known best for his role in Dawson's Creek, died on Wednesday, Feb. 11.
"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," Van Der Beek's wife said in a statement posted to Instagram.
Less than two months before the actor's death, Kimberly took to Instagram to share a pic of her and her husband together. This would become the last photo that Kimberly would share on social media before her husband's death.
View this post on Instagram"Me and my bae @vanderjames," she captioned the photo. Fans took to the comments section to send the couple love.
"You two are beautiful and inspiring. My husband is battling v similar battle. May they both win the fight & us who love them so," one person wrote at the time.
"Your family is lovely and so positive. Sending healing vibes," someone else had said.
"Thinking of you both and your family. Praying the New Year will bring healing and strength. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Happy New Year!!!" a third comment read.
Kimberly often shared photos of her, her husband, and their kids, and penned him a sweet tribute on his 48th birthday in March 2025.
"Happy Birthday @vanderjames. May our hearts continue to dance together for many many many many more more birthdays. You are a treasure. I feel like the luckiest lady in the world to be married to you. May this year bring you so much laughter, dancing, deepening connection with God, exceptional health and exquisite beauty all around- plus of course- family snuggles, sunrises, sunsets, play and restorative rest," Kimberly wrote.
In November 2024, James revealed that he'd been diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer months prior.
"I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family,” he told People magazine at the time. “There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good."
Over the next several months, James underwent a variety of treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.
James is survived by his wife and their six children.
Krispy Kreme Is Giving Away Free Doughnuts This Weekend
Krispy Kreme is giving fans the chance to score a free doughnut this week.
While Friday the 13th is often associated with bad luck and malevolent spirits, the popular sweets shop is flipping the script this year and ushering in good vibes all weekend long, starting with a limited-time deal on doughnuts.
Ahead of the big day at the end of the week, Krispy Kreme announced it will be giving away thousands of doughnuts for free—here's how you can get yours.
Krispy Kreme to Give Away Thousands of Doughnuts This WeekAccording to an official press release shared with Parade, Krispy Kreme is ready to offer 13,000 fans a free box of one dozen doughnuts (totaling 156,000 free doughnuts), but it's only going down on Friday, Feb. 13, so clear your calendar.
Related: Krispy Kreme’s Everyday Menu Is About to Look Entirely Different
Here's how it works: Krispy Kreme said the "winners" will be randomly selected at its shops, so ordering online or grabbing a box at the grocery store won't make or break a winning strategy (but it will get you some tasty doughnuts).
Instead, it's up to Krispy Kreme employees to randomly present customers with a coupon for a free box filled with one dozen Original Glazed doughnuts. The coupon isn't valid that day, however, so don't plan to bring a box of free doughnuts to your Galentine's Day celebrations. Instead, the lucky recipients of the coupons have 13 days to trade them in for the freebie beginning on Sunday, Feb. 15 (offer valid through Saturday, Feb. 28).
That said, Krispy Kreme has an entire Valentine's-themed menu that will only be available for a limited time, so going in on Friday in hopes of being presented with a free dozens coupon isn't a total waste of time so long as you make sure to grab a V-Day doughnut on your way out—and you're going to want to grab at least one of the adorably sweet collection either for yourself or your Valentine, we won't judge.
“There are so many ways to show love on Valentine’s Day, not to just one person, but to everyone who makes your life a little brighter. This year we took inspiration from classic Valentine’s gifts to create a doughnut collection perfectly made for sharing,” Alison Holder, chief brand and product officer at Krispy Kreme, shared in a statement earlier this month. “We’re a bit partial, of course, but we feel these doughnuts might be the sweetest way to express love this Valentine’s. And … you’ll love these doughnuts!”
As Krispy Kreme previously announced, this year's Valentine's Day specials include four new recipes "sprinkled with love."
- I Love You a Choco-Lot Doughnut – an unglazed heart doughnut filled with chocolate flavored Kreme™, dipped in red vanilla flavored icing, topped with a chocolate icing ribbon and bow.
- Teddy Bear Cookies & Kreme™ Doughnut – an unglazed heart doughnut filled with Cookies & Kreme™, dipped in chocolate icing, topped with a white chocolate bear face.
- You’re Berry Sweet Doughnut – an unglazed heart doughnut filled with smooth, fluffy Kreme™, dipped in strawberry flavored icing, topped with a red vanilla flavored drizzle and an XOXO sugar piece.
- Sprinkled with Love Doughnut – an Original Glazed® doughnut piped with buttercreme flavored frosting and heart sprinkles.
Krispy Kreme's Valentine's Day menu is currently available in stores and online for pickup and delivery. Fans can also find some of the Valentine’s Day doughnuts in Krispy Kreme six-packs at select retailers (including ShopRite, Publix, Target and Walmart) for a limited time this season. Prices may vary.
Next: Dairy Queen Brings Back Beloved St. Patrick’s Day Blizzard Treat
James Van Der Beek Dead at 48
James Van Der Beek has died.
The Dawson's Creek alum was 48.
TMZ was first to report the news, revealing that a rep for Travis County Medical Examiner's Office confirmed that his death was called in around 6:44 am.
A cause of death was not immediately revealed; however, the actor was diagnosed with Stage 3 colorectal cancer.
He revealed his battle in late 2024, though he was diagnosed in 2023.
The news was confirmed by his family in a statement shared to his social media page.
View this post on Instagram"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," the post read.
He first shared his diagnosis with People, stating, "I have colorectal cancer. I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family.”
The cancer was discovered after a routine colonoscopy in August 2023. He recalled not being worried initially, but later experiencing a shock at the life-changing news.
"I'm very healthy," he said at the time. "I was in amazing cardiovascular shape. I tried to eat healthy as much as I could, as far as I knew at the time. Though I've since learned a lot about what actually eating healthy is."
Van Der Beek, who is survived by his six kids with wife Kimberly (daughters Olivia, Annabel, Emilia and Gwendolyn, and sons Joshua and Jeremiah), previously told Parade exclusively that the cancer gave him a new perspective on life.
“I joked that I’m the only guy who got cancer and said, ‘You know what I’ve realized is I need to work more,'” he said.
He also said it strengthened his relationship with his wife of 15 years, noting, “I’m more in love than ever, and more in awe of her than ever, and how she’s able to handle everything that I had to drop when I got diagnosed, and everything that she does, and just what it is to be that loved by somebody,”
Van Der Beek's role on the hit teen drama, Dawson's Creek, as Dawson Leery, from 1998 through 2003, propelled him to fame and made him a household name and teen heartthrob. He also appeared in the box office hit football movie Varsity Blues, with other notable roles in The Rules of Attraction, Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23 and an appearance on The Masked Singer in 2025.
Old Navy Is Selling a 'Colorful and Comfy' $22 Men's Staple That Shoppers Say 'People Won't Stop Complimenting'
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We're nearly through the worst of winter weather, and with warmer temperatures and the promise of shedding our bulky layers on the horizon, now's the perfect time to start investing in a few new wardrobe essentials ahead of the season.
Always a reliable source for trending styles fit for a myriad of occasions, Old Navy just so happens to be running a discount on tons of reliable wardrobe staples, and there's one you really won't want to miss. Channeling a '90s grunge vibe and paired with an unbeatable $22 price tag, Old Navy's Loose-Fit Textured Plaid Pocket Shirt is a classic layer that will never go out of style.
Loose-Fit Textured Plaid Pocket Shirt, $22 at Old NavyOld Navy
Currently available both in-store and online, the Loose-Fit Textured Plaid Pocket Shirt is a fan favorite in Old Navy's extensive menswear lineup, one that consistently garners compliments when worn. On the surface, it looks like your standard flannel, but according to one shopper, it easily "stands out against normal plaid shirts" thanks to its cozy fabric and loose-fitting design.
Fully capable of more than earning its place in your closet, this shirt comes in a variety of stylish colors, including In the Navy, Carmine, Howlit, and Russet Moon, all priced at the scroll-stopping $22. With regular and tall options available in sizes XS–XXXXL, you'll have no trouble finding the perfect fit. Add to that a classic spread collar, full button front and cuffs, button-flap chest pockets and a loose fit that hits at the hip—all crafted in textured-dobby twill atop 100-percent cotton—and you've just found your new favorite shirt.
Old Navy
For everyday wear and care, you can machine wash this style with light colors. Use a cold cycle and tumble dry on low or hang dry for optimal fabric protection. Also, according to one fan who left a review, it's a smart idea to size down when purchasing, as the loose fit tends to be "one size larger than normal."
Otherwise, its elevated casual appeal makes it easy to dress up or down, looking just as good buttoned and tucked in as it does unbuttoned over a base layer with a pair of comfortable slacks or denim. Wear it to the office on casual Fridays, on the job site as a replacement for an old favorite or running everyday errands on those slightly chilly spring days when the weather just can't make up its mind.
With fans calling this shirt "colorful and comfy," and claiming that "people won't stop complimenting my outfit," it's pretty clear Old Navy hit the ball out of the park with this one. If you like what you see, snag it while the deal is hot, and while you're there, check out Old Navy's cozy seasonal top coat and equally comfortable $23 joggers for more essential deals.
Lindsey Vonn Undergoes Third Surgery After Gnarly Injury, Remains Hospitalized: Photo
Lindsey Vonn is still in the hospital after suffering a complex tibia fracture in her left leg during the women’s downhill event that took place during the Winter Olympics in Italy on Sunday, Feb. 8. Vonn has undergone three surgeries on her road to recovery.
"I had my 3rd surgery today and it was successful," Vonn, 41, captioned an Instagram post on Wednesday, Feb. 11. "Success today has a completely different meaning than it did a few days ago. I’m making progress and while it is slow, I know I’ll be ok. Thankful for all of the incredible medical staff, friends, family, who have been by my side and the beautiful outpouring of love and support from people around the world. Also, huge congrats to my teammates and all of the Team USA athletes who are out there inspiring me and giving me something to cheer for."
View this post on InstagramVonn's injury was shocking to all who were watching her inspiring return to The Games. Just 13 seconds into her run, Vonn's right shoulder clipped a gate, causing her to lose control. Her body flipped a few times before she landed in the snow. Many people who watched the event heard Vonn yell out in pain. Medical personnel approached her and she ended up being taken off the mountain by way of a helicopter.
"Yesterday my Olympic dream did not finish the way I dreamt it would. It wasn’t a story book ending or a fairy tail, it was just life. I dared to dream and had worked so hard to achieve it. Because in Downhill ski racing the difference between a strategic line and a catastrophic injury can be as small as 5 inches," Vonn captioned an Instagram post one day after her crash.
"While yesterday did not end the way I had hoped, and despite the intense physical pain it caused, I have no regrets. Standing in the starting gate yesterday was an incredible feeling that I will never forget. Knowing I stood there having a chance to win was a victory in and of itself. I also knew that racing was a risk. It always was and always will be an incredibly dangerous sport," she added.
Vonn isn't a stranger to injuries. In April 2024, she underwent a partial knee replacement in her right knee. Years prior, in 2019, Vonn announced that she was retiring from professional skiing. However, after her knee surgery, she started training again and she realized that she really missed competing. It's unclear now, after her latest injury, if she will continue to compete or if she will retire for good.
READ NEXT: Fans Are Sending Lindsey Vonn Love After Incredible Career First
This Is the Dessert Athletes Can't Stop Talking About at the 2026 Winter Olympics
If you remember the chocolate muffin craze from the last Olympic Games, you already know food can become a surprise star. This time, the buzz is back and even louder. At the Winter Olympics 2026, athletes in Milan are obsessed with a new dessert that's quickly taking over social media and the Olympic Village dining hall.
It's rich, it's dramatic, and it has people comparing it to past Olympic legends. But in true Olympic fashion, the hype didn't start all at once. It built slowly as more Olympic athletes shared their reactions online and fans at home started feeling very jealous.
The Dessert Everyone Wants a Bite Of in Milan View this post on InstagramInside the Olympic Village in Milan, one chocolate dessert has become the most talked-about item on the menu: chocolate lava cake. Unlike a basic chocolate cake, this one has a soft outer layer and a warm, melted center that spills out when you cut into it. That gooey middle is what's winning over athletes from all over the world.
Several Olympic athletes have posted videos showing the moment the cake is sliced open, revealing the molten chocolate inside. Some call it better than the famous chocolate muffins from the Paris Games. That's a bold statement considering how viral those muffins became.
Canadian hockey player Natalie Spooner also shared a full review, calling the lava cake gooey, chocolatey and exactly what she had been waiting for. She even scored it a 9.1 out of 10. Not bad for cafeteria food at one of the biggest sporting events on earth.
The dessert has shown up mainly at the main Olympic Village in Milan, which has made it feel even more exclusive. Some athletes staying outside the city say they haven't seen it yet, adding to the hype.
Related: What Do the Olympic Rings Symbolize?
Why This Lava Cake Feels Like an Olympic MomentFood at the Olympics doesn't always get great reviews. In past years, athletes have complained about bland meals and limited options. But Italy is known for great food, and the Winter Olympics 2026 seem to be changing the narrative.
This lava cake feels like a glow-up from the Paris chocolate muffins. It's richer, warmer and more dramatic. The powdered sugar on top doesn't hurt either. Even athletes who didn't love their first bite are still talking about it, which shows just how big the moment is.
Beyond the dessert itself, this is another reminder that the Olympics aren't just about medals. Small moments, like a really good dessert, help humanize Olympic athletes and give fans something fun to rally around.
Related: 19 Best Chocolate Dessert Recipes to Make for Valentine's Day