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If you grew up around those little gold-wrapped candies, you probably remember exactly where you'd find them. Maybe it was in a bowl on the coffee table, technically off-limits, or in a grandma's purse, where everything smelled faintly of caramel. You'd unwrap one, let it sit on your tongue, and before you knew it, you were going back for another.

That's exactly the feeling Trader Joe's tapped into with one of its latest under-$3 finds. At first glance, it might not seem like anything groundbreaking. But after trying it, and seeing how shoppers are devouring the entire bag, it's clear this is one of those low-key Trader Joe's gems that brings back a very specific kind of sweet, old-school comfort.

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Trader Joe's

Trader Joe's Butter Caramel Hard Candies come in an 8.11-ounce bag priced at just $2.79, and they deliver exactly what the name promises. These small, round hard candies are rich, buttery and slightly creamy, with a smooth melt that feels more indulgent than your average hard candy.

They're made using a traditional hard-boiling method and sourced from Poland, which helps explain their more classic, confectionery-style texture. Each piece is individually wrapped, making them easy to stash in a bag, keep at your desk or carry around as your designated "purse candy."

As for flavor, they taste like a mix of butterscotch and caramel, with just enough salt to keep the sweetness from going overboard. The result is balanced and comforting, like something you've had before—even if you haven't tried this exact version.

And while there's no shortage of caramel candies, the price is part of what makes these such a good buy. For under $3, you're getting a surprisingly large bag (around 50 pieces), which makes it feel even more like something you'd pour into a candy dish at home.

Related: Trader Joe's Lets You Try Almost Anything in the Store—but There's a Catch

New at Trader Joe’s and I didn’t know I needed this kind of nostalgia 🍯🤍 These Butter Caramel Hard Candies are giving classic candy shop energy — rich, buttery, perfectly sweet with just a tiny hint of salt to balance it all out. They’re made in small batches using the traditional hard-boiling method, and you can taste the difference. Smooth, creamy, and they melt so elegantly instead of being aggressively sticky. They feel old-fashioned in the best way… but elevated. Individually wrapped (aka purse, car, and desk approved). A timeless treat at a very Trader Joe’s price. This one’s a quiet winner. #traderjoeslist #TraderJoes #traderjoesfinds #candy

It didn't take long for Trader Joe's shoppers to start talking about these candies online—and most reactions point to the same thing: they taste like the candy people already know and love.

On Reddit, one shopper wrote, "They're great! Not too overly sweet. Love them." Another added, "Soooo good. Even just one is so satisfying and mouthwatering," while someone else said, "These are addicting. I can't wait to get another bag!" Even first-time buyers seem to be on board, with one person sharing, "Just got some! Very tasty little treats."

A lot of the comments also come back to how nostalgic they taste. "They're so yummy! Totally Werther's!" one commenter wrote, while others compared them to classic butterscotch candies and older caramel brands.

That same sentiment shows up on Instagram, too. "It's like the little butterscotch candies 😍😍😍😍," one person commented, while another wrote, "Obsessed with these. They remind me of Werther's candies."

For some, that nostalgic feel is part of the appeal. One shopper summed it up best: "My kids call them grandma candy and we are all obsessed." Another described them as "like a hard candy version of a Brach's caramel."

At the end of the day, they're not trying to reinvent anything—they just taste good. And based on how fast people are going through a bag, that's more than enough.

Related: KFC Just Brought Back a Fan-Favorite Deal Just in Time for Bracket Season

Of course, you can just unwrap one and let it melt—that's kind of the whole point. But they're also easy to use in a few other ways if you want to switch things up.

One of the simplest is dropping one into a hot cup of coffee. It slowly dissolves and adds a light caramel sweetness without needing syrup or flavored creamer. It's subtle, but it works.

They're also easy to crush up. Break a few pieces and sprinkle them over ice cream, yogurt, or even oatmeal for a bit of texture and caramel flavor. It's a quick way to dress up something basic without much effort.

You can also melt them down for baking. Let a few candies soften, then drizzle them over brownies or cookies, or press one into the center of cookie dough for a caramel-filled center once baked.

And then there's the most obvious use—keeping them on hand for whenever you want something sweet. Desk drawer, work bag, purse—this is exactly the kind of candy that fits into those little moments.

They're still best eaten the classic way, but having a few extra uses makes that $3 bag go even further.

Related: Fans Are 'Heartbroken' After These 10 Iconic 'Man v. Food' Restaurants Shuttered for Good

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I don't know about you, but the older I get, the more I demand out of everyday things. That Marie Kondo was on to something when she suggested only keeping things that bring you joy. These days, I want happiness wherever I can find it. That might mean kitschy beverage pitchers, colorful cutting boards or pretty printed shelf liners. Again, it's all about bringing some fun to the typically mundane.

Now I have a set of elegant salt and pepper shakers that we use on what you'd call special occasions (they were a wedding gift), but otherwise we're pretty much dumping salt out of the carton over here. No cuteness, no whimsy, no joy. That is, until I set my sights on a pair of IKEA spice grinders that are not a want, but a need—at least from a style perspective.

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IKEA

The SPJUTLILJA Spice Mill Set at IKEA is so chic, and it's only $14.99 for the pair (that breaks down to roughly $7.50 per grinder). You can use one for salt and one for pepper, giving your table a total retro glam vibe that feels a little art deco and a whole lot more stylish than hauling out the box of Morton's salt. The body of each piece is plastic, but the grinder portion is ceramic, which is actually more durable than traditional steel grinders.

Related: Aldi's Stunning Pastel Blue Sauté Pan Looks Just Like a Crate & Barrel Version 7x the Price

Ceramic is also less reactive than steel, which is a fancy way of saying this IKEA version won't mess with the flavor of what you're grinding. Steel can sometimes pick up or transfer a slight metallic taste, especially with salt, whereas ceramic just stays neutral. When you're trying to add just a touch of flavor to a meal, you want it to taste right.

I'm loving everything IKEA has to offer right now, from storage to decor and everything in between. Plus, the retailer has been debuting old favorites in new colors, like a go-to shelving unit in a pretty lilac and an outdoor cabinet in vibrant blue. Speaking of the store's outdoor offerings, it's carrying a set of space-saving patio nesting tables as well as string lights that will make your yard look like a whimsical cafe.

Related: Martha Stewart's New Candle Drop at JCPenney Includes a Perfect Spring Dessert Scent

Everybody in America has seen all the episodes of the hit show Friends, right? I mean, especially if you're one of the six rising superstars whose career took off due to the wildly popular show? This is simply not the case, according to Friends comedy queen Lisa Kudrow. Despite starring in the show, she admits she just started watching Friends, and there are still episodic surprises along the way.

In a recent interview for CBS News' Sunday Morning, Kudrow explains she likes to have a laugh before bed. She runs through some of her favorite sitcoms to watch, mentioning Everybody Loves Raymond, Big Bang Theory, Will & Grace, and 30 Rock, which she calls the "funniest ever." Anyone notice what show's missing from her list? Like the one with Ross and Rachel and Joey and Chandler and Monica and, yes, Phoebe?

The Comeback actress says, "I very recently started just started watching Friends before going to bed."

(Wait Lisa, very recently started? The show ran for a whole decade from 1994-2004! The finale was over 20 years ago! You are one of the stars! You played the Phoebe Buffay! What do you mean you didn't watch every single episode before or, at least, as soon as it aired? Impossible! Celebrity life is weird.)

Related: Lisa Kudrow Just Slammed This 'Friends' Character: 'What a Baby'

But it's true, apparently. Kudrow says, "I'm like 'Oh yeah, wait. What happened?' Because I didn't see all of them."

"So you don't know what happened in all the episodes?" asks CBS news correspondent Tracy Smith.

"I kinda do, but yeah, it's a surprise!"

Watch the clip of Lisa Kudrow on CBS News' Sunday Morning:

Of course, now we need to know what episodes she missed. She didn't miss the one when Phoebe sang "Smelly Cat," right? She had to have watched that legendary one. And she knows Phoebe's mom was reincarnated as a cat, doesn't she? OMG, does she know there's a thumb in that soda can?

Lisa Kudrow is currently promoting the new season of her HBO comedy series The Comeback, which is in its third and final season. Catch it weekly on Sundays—or if you're Kudrow, check back in a couple decades and see what it's all about.

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Warning: This article contains spoilers for NCIS Season 23.

Fans of the long-running procedural NCIS received quite a shock on March 24, when Director Leon Vance (Rocky Carroll) was killed by a corrupt agent while protecting the agency. While not one of the original cast members -- Sean Murray's Timothy McGee has been on the longest -- the 18 seasons he spent on the show hadconvinced us that he wasn't going anywhere. Apparently, the writers and showrunner didn't agree.

While some fans thought the send-off was emotional but satisfying, others felt that, after so many years on the show, he deserved better.

"I gasped and sobbed so hard lol," wrote one fan on the NCIS Reddit page. "My heart can’t take when they kill/write off a long term character."

"I kept thinking Vance was dreaming," commented another. "He was a great director and I will miss him. This is a major letdown."

"Annoyed," a disgruntled viewer wrote. "The writers/showrunners dropped the ball getting rid of one of the oldest characters in that way."

Carroll toldPeople that he first heard about his character's demise in November, when showrunner Steve Binder told him he had an idea for the 500th episode. "We want to do something that shocks our loyal viewers and just really turns the NCIS universe upside down," Carroll recalled Binder saying. "And I was like, 'Oh, wow, that sounds great. Tell me more.'"

Binder revealed that someone would try to destroy NCIS, but Vance would be a hero and stop them. However, when he explained that Vance wouldn't survive the experience, Carroll was shocked.

Robert Voets/CBS ©2026 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

“Steve [Binder], he goes, 'You want to hear more about the story?'" he continued. "And I was like, 'Let me process the whole thing, what you just told me. Let me take a moment, because right now I'm kind of having a bit of an out-of-body experience.'"

"This wasn't one of those scenarios where I came to the network or I came to the producers and said, 'Hey, it's been a great run, but I think I want to move on,'" he added.

The episode was shot three months ago, so Carroll has had some time to accept Vance's death. For fans who have come to love Vance over the years, it's going to take a while to come to terms with his absence.

"Since I wrote my reply I was reading a couple more interviews and I kinda changed my mind," commented one such fan. "The way Carroll expressed the why’s and all of the significance of him leaving was actually pretty nice, 18 seasons is a looong time."

Besides, even Carroll knows that this isn't really goodbye. "As far as I know, I'll be back next season to direct episodes," he admitted. "We've already talked about bringing Vance back in flashbacks."

Jackson Duggar is denying a long-standing rumor about his family.

During Turning Point USA's AmericaFest conference in December 2025, the youngest Duggar son was interviewed by an attendee while Jackson's father Jim Bob Duggar and several of his younger sisters stood beside him.

The clip resurfaced in March 2026 following news Jackson's brother Joseph and sister-in-law Kendrawere arrested.

When asked to name something about the family's TV show 19 Kids and Counting that no one knows about, Jackson responded, "A lot of people think we were in a cult, and we were not in a cult."

The interviewer then asked why people assumed he and his family were apart of a cult.

"Because of a man named Bill Gothard who went around, and he shared the gospel and did some different things, but he also had some other things that were kind of off," Jackson explained.

Bill Gothard was the founder of the Institute in Basic Life Principles, a fundamentalist Christian organization that the Duggar family was apart of. In 2014, he stepped down as the leader of the IBLP after 34 women accused him of sexual harassment and molestation.

"We went to his conferences once or twice a year, we were involved a lot with what he did, but we were not apart of everything," Jackson added.

RELATED: Jill Duggar Breaks Silence on Brother Joseph’s Arrest for Child Molestation

The 21-year-old also used the opportunity to praise his parents Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar.

"We grew up with great parents who taught us about the Bible and shared the gospel with us," he said.

He ended the interview by addressing the 2023 Prime Video documentary, Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets, that exposed emotional, physical, and sexual abuse that occurred within the IBLP.

"People try to give you lies, they try to feed you lies, but the truth in the end will win out," Jackson said.

Jackson has yet to publicly address the arrest of his brother and sister-in-law.

If you suspect child abuse, call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-Child or 1-800-422-4453, or go to www.childhelp.org.

Gwyneth Paltrow is taking the lead in the upcoming film adaptation of author Belle Burden’s book, Strangers: A Memoir of Marriage.

News broke on Wednesday, March 25, that the Oscar winner, 53, will star in and executive produce the movie. Netflix won the rights to Burden’s memoir in a highly competitive auction earlier this week, Variety reported.

Strangers became an instant No. 1 New York Times bestseller upon its release in January. The book centers around Burden’s abrupt 2020 split from her husband of 20 years, who “with no warning or explanation … announced that he was leaving her,” according to the synopsis.

“In Strangers, Burden revisits her marriage, searching for clues that her husband was not who she always thought he was,” the memoir’s description teases. “As she examines her relationship through a new lens, she reckons with her own family history and the lessons she intuited about how a woman is expected to behave in the face of betrayal. Through all of it, she is transformed. The discreet, compliant woman she once was—someone nicknamed ‘Belle the Good’—gives way to someone braver, someone determined to use her voice.”

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For Paltrow, the source material likely hits close to home following her widely publicized divorce from Chris Martin, to whom she was married from 2003 to 2016. The pair’s 2014 split announcement went down in pop culture history when they coined the phrase “conscious uncoupling” to describe the separation process.

Strangers will mark Paltrow’s first lead film role in more than a decade after helming the 2010 movie Country Strong. Since then, she has taken on smaller parts while focusing on her lifestyle brand Goop. Over the course of the past 15 years, her supporting acting credits included multiple Marvel movies—2010’s Iron Man 2, 2012’s The Avengers, 2013’s Iron Man 3, 2017’s Spider-Man: Homecoming, 2018’s Avengers: Infinity War and 2019’s Avengers: Endgame—as well as 2011’s Contagion, 2012’s Thanks for Sharing and 2015’s Mortdecai.

Paltrow took an extended hiatus from acting prior to her role in 2025’s Marty Supreme. Amid the film’s release, she explained why she decided to return to the big screen after years away.

“If I’m being completely honest, it’s not that the acting bug had bit,” she told The Hollywood Reporter in December 2025. “My children, all four of them, had left—[husband] Brad [Falchuk] and I each have girls and boys the same age, and when I knew the boys were leaving for college, I started to have a real panic around my purpose and where I’m supposed to orient myself: Where do I want to live? Who am I? It was pretty profound.”

When Marty Supreme director Josh Safdie approached Paltrow about appearing in the movie, the timing seemed right. However, after she agreed to the role, her doubts crept in.

“I said yes, and then I was like, ‘Oh f--k, do I remember how to do this?’ It had been seven years,” she explained. “But I didn’t get the bug back until I was on set doing the hair-and-makeup test. That’s when I was like, ‘Oh, what is this weird feeling I’m having? Oh, my God, this is excitement. I’m actually really excited to be here.’”

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The classic Mary Jane flat is making a strong comeback this spring. While the silhouette has always been timeless, its real appeal comes from its practical, wear-all-day design. The signature straps offer a more secure fit than typical ballet flats, making them a smart choice for busy, on-the-go days. Plus, they’re easy to pair with everything from casual basics to more dressed-up looks.

If you’re looking for an affordable option, the Trary Buckle Strap Mary Jane Flats are worth checking out. Right now, they’re 50% off during Amazon’s Big Spring Sale, bringing the price down from $39 to just $19. 

Courtesy of Amazon

These flats come in 13 color options, including neutrals like black, brown, and white, along with a bold red if you want something more eye-catching. You can also choose between a woven mesh or faux-leather version, depending on your style preference.

The mesh version stands out for spring and summer thanks to its breathable, lightweight feel. It features a rubber sole, soft latex inner, and a flexible structure that makes walking comfortable. The round-toe shape gives your feet a bit more room, which adds to the overall ease.

Design-wise, the double buckle straps give these flats a unique twist. They combine that classic Mary-Jane look with a slightly edgy, moto-inspired detail. The woven mesh upper adds texture and keeps the style feeling fresh and modern.

Related: Amazon Has ‘Incredibly Comfortable’ Traveler-Approved Adidas Sneakers for Just $49 Ahead of Its Big Spring Sale

They’re also easy to style for different occasions. You can wear them with jeans and a T-shirt for a casual day out, or pair them with skirts, dresses, or wide-leg pants for something more polished. They transition easily from work to weekend plans.

One shopper described them as “classy and elegant,” adding, “The shoes come with padding on the sole and heel of the shoe, making them very comfortable to wear.” Another dubbed the shoes their “go-to pair” for “effortless style,” writing, “The mesh and buckle give instant attitude, and I can wear them all day without my feet hurting.”

• Amazon Essentials Women's Loafer Flats, From $17 (was $23) at Amazon
• Madden Girl Navida Sneakers, From $28 (was $55) at Amazon
• Litfun Unisex Genuine Suede Clogs, From $22 (was $43) at Amazon

If you want a pair of shoes that feels on-trend but still timeless, the Trary Buckle Strap Mary Jane Flats are a great pick. With the current 50% discount dropping them to just $19, it’s an easy and affordable way to refresh your spring wardrobe.

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Terry Cox, the British drummer who had performed with iconic rock legends like David Bowie and Elton John in the '60s and '70s, has died at the age of 89.

Cox's longtime band The Pentangle confirmed the news on Tuesday and announced that he had died on March 19.

"R.I.P. One of Pentangle’s five points of light - a drummer of rare instinct and imagination," the band wrote on Tuesday.

The folk band, founded in 1967 by John Renbourn and Bert Jansch, invited Cox to join their lineup, who at the time was primarily a jazz musician.

Ultimate Classic Rock reported that Cox died in Spain, where he owned a restaurant called Pan Y Vino and continued to perform local shows.

"Being from a jazz background, this is the secret from my point of view: Lots of space," Cox once shared in an interview for the 2020 book London, Reign Over Me: How England's Capital Built Classic Rock. "Miles Davis, listen to him. There's more when he doesn't play than when he does."

With The Pentangle, Cox released a handful of projects, including their 1969 album Basket of Light, which reached No. 5 on the U.K. Albums Chart. When the band reformed in 1982 to perform at that year's Cambridge Folk Festival, Cox was notably absent after breaking his leg in an accident. He would later join the band on tour in Italy, Australia and Germany while performing in a wheelchair for several shows.

The Pentangle would reunite again on several occasions, including in 2008 and 2011, until band members Jansch died in 2011 and Renbourn died in 2015.

Photo by Estate Of Keith Morris/Redferns/Getty Images

Beyond his time with The Pentangle, Cox had played the drums for several other major rock acts. He appears on the Bee Gees' 1970 album Cucumber Castle, David Bowie's Space Oddity (1969), the soundtrack for the James Bond movie Live and Let Die (1973), and Elton John's self-titled 1970 album as well as Madman Across the Water (1971), among many other credits.

The Pentangle was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards in 2007 for the impact they have left on folk music.

Related: 1974 Career-Defining Classic Was a No. 1 Hit 52 Years Ago Today

The '70s were a dynamite time for music with hit bands like Lynard Skynard, Fleetwood Mac, and Black Sabbath, to name a few, dominating radio airwaves. Among some of the biggest released albums of the decade, Pink Floyd was named as having the most influential album.

There's no denying that there are more than a handful of albums that quickly reached the Billboard charts and became certified platinum. UltimateClassicRock created a list of the "Top 100 Albums of the '70s" that defined the era, with the Top 5 not being a surprise among fans.

Landing at No.5 on the list was The Rolling Stones' 1972 album Exile on Main St., which was their 11th LP and recorded in what was reported to have been a drug-and alcohol-fueled haze in Paris. Fourth on the list is Led Zeppelin's 1971 album Led Zeppelin IV that went back to the basics. Fleetwood Mac's Rumors comes in at No. 3 on the list and was released during the falling-out years for the band.

Taking the No. 2 spot is none other than Stevie Wonder's Song in the Key of Life, which was released in 1976. The album was a continued success for Wonder with multiple love songs and chart-topping hits.

Pink Floyd's The Dark Side of the Moon takes the No. 1 spot as the best album to be released in the '70s. According to UCR, the 1973 album is a phenomenon for more than a few reasons and "reached the pinnacle of 1970s rock music."

"Pink Floyd's eighth LP set a stage for a new era of rock records and the way they were presented. The Dark Side of the Moon reflected the group's evolution over the past half-decade; its songs and themes aren't that far removed from what they had been moving toward since the start of the '70s," they said.

Related: 1961 Best-Selling Classic Became a No. 1 Hit 65 Years Ago

The eighth studio album was released in March 1973 and is often perceived as a concept album that focuses on the pressure the band faced during its pinnacle of fame and the mental health problems of former member Syd Barrett. Its songs tackled the themes of greed, time, death, and mental illness, with its cover art gaining notable acclaim, depicting a prismatic spectrum designed by Storm Thorgerson.

The rock band's album gave way to chart hits like "Breath (In the Air)," "On the Run," "Eclipse," and many more that skyrocketed the band into immense wealth. It became certified 14x Platinum by the RIAA and was on the Billboard 200 charts for 900 weeks. Major outlets often name it one of the greatest albums of all time, with it having been preserved by the Library of Congress. It was also inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999.

The trailer for the upcoming live-action Moana movie was officially released on March 23, and it didn't take long for the internet to be swamped with opinions about the project, from criticism of certain design choices to debates about whether the live-action version is needed/wanted.

While Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson'sMaui wig was perhaps the most heavily commented on element of the entire trailer, Maui is far from the only character whose design drew some criticism and negative responses. In fact, Maui wasn't even the only character whose hair, in particular, was the topic of conversation.

Since the trailer was released, there has been significant online discourse about Moana's hair in the live-action movie. In the original animated version, Moana's long curly hair is one of her most iconic features. It was for that reason that many were excited to hear that Catherine Laga'aia had been cast in the role for the live-action movie, as she had natural curls that were a perfect fit for Moana's hair.

Yet, in the trailer, Moana's hair is actually much less curly and full than it is in animation, which has led many to wonder why Disney would make this change if the actress already had the right hair for the role.

Also genuinely why did they make her hair straighter. Her natural hair is exactly like Moana's, so ???? pic.twitter.com/wpevf1sPC0

will never understand hiring an actress who has naturally curly hair like moana but not letting her wear them in the movie https://t.co/eLhXog7zNe

they developed a new type of animation for moana's curls only to straighten her hair when this is what her natural pattern looks like https://t.co/YwDL2CtPYW pic.twitter.com/H5wfn5vC8M

These frustrations and comments following the trailer actually mirror commentary that spread online back in November when images from the movie had become available, showing the same hair change for the beloved Disney character. During that wave of backlash, many creators were specifically calling Disney out for what they argued was whitewashing and removing representation for girls with curly hair.

I just couldn’t believe it when watching this preview for the live action #moana that they straightened and then wand curled her beautiful curly hair. Like even young Moana has the curls, but as the older Moana she doesn’t. I just don’t understand why they made that decision. And I know she’s just a fictional character, but this is a fictional character that means so much to so many in our Pasifika community. And I hate the message that this sends to young girls and women. #moanaliveaction #pasifika #pacificislander #samoan

If we can manage our curls on a daily basis then Disney definitely can too

One running theory includes the possibility that curly hair would be more challenging to work with on set and on screen, especially when it comes to CGI, but many have argued that thinking of the work as too difficult undercuts why this representation was important in the first place.

Thus far, commentary surrounding the movie has continued to be positive about Laga'aia herself, and many agree she is perfect for the role. The issues, from most who have taken to the internet with their frustrations, seem to be directed at Disney specifically.

Moana (2026) hits theaters on July 10, 2026.

Taylor Dearden, who is best known for her role on The Pitt, is opening up about the potential for a romantic storyline for her character, Dr. Mel King.

The actress, 33, who got her start with a small role on her father Bryan Cranston's notorious series, Breaking Bad, went on to appear on the MTV series Sweet/Vicious and the Netflix series American Vandal. But it’s her role as the sweet second-year resident Dr. Melissa King, opposite Noah Wyle on TV’s hottest medical series, The Pitt, that has kicked Dearden’s star power into high gear.

In a revealing new interview, Dearden opened up about the potential for her character to have a romantic storyline.

"The truth is I don’t know…. We have to keep some stuff open because we don’t know where the writers want to take the story," Dearden, 33, told Glamour in a new interview. "What I’ve envisioned may not be the direction they want to go."

Dearden also said that she doesn't really inject much romance into Dearden's life.

"But for me, I always saw Mel as someone who is not romantic — as actually genuinely asexual — and friendship is the most important thing for her. That flirtation, romance, that aspect is not really a part of her, but it’s also hard to make that decision without consulting the writers and seeing what direction they want to go in," she noted, adding that's "how I’ve always envisioned Mel and how I’ve played her."

Dearden added that she's willing to adapt if need be.

"Hopefully loose enough that I can change course if need be," she said. "I think everything for Mel is connection to people and being friends and having true companionship, which I don’t think needs to be romantic."

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Dearden’s Pitt character, Dr. Mel King, is a fan favorite on the series. Like her character, Dearden is also neurodivergent. However, unlike Dearden, King has not yet been diagnosed.

On a panel back in December, Dearden explained that her character on the show has not been diagnosed with ADHD. Dearden thinks the doctor has likely been affected by her sister having autism. 

“If you have a sibling who’s more severely on a spectrum, the parents often don’t even notice that their other child is,” Dearden said, PEOPLE reported. “That’s kind of always how I saw it. With a lot of Mel, it’s just kind of unmasking and seeing what that looks like, and then also being like, ‘Wow, I’m kind of glad I mask sometimes.’ “

Photo by Kevin Mazur on Getty Images

Dearden has opened up about her lifelong journey through ADHD and how she’s taking that into play when it comes to navigating the experience of her character. In speaking about her character’s experience, Dearden hasn’t shied away from opening up about her own ADHD journey. She recently spoke with Harper’s Bazaar and shared how she came to learn she had ADHD.

“I was really young. My second-grade teacher said to my parents, ‘She can’t finish a test. Something’s up here.’ Usually, girls get diagnosed with ADHD later in life, but luckily, I was a little hyperactive. Because of that, I presented more like a boy, and I was able to get diagnosed earlier,” Dearden shared, noting that a significant amount of progress has been made in the study of ADHD even in the last five years.

In the PEOPLE piece, Dearden noted that one of her tips for dealing with some of her challenges is giving herself advice.

“I’m on the ADHD spectrum so I gave myself advice in the mirror,” she noted.

Related: ‘The Pitt’ Star Taylor Dearden, Daughter of Bryan Cranston, Goes Full Glam and Gorgeous on the Red Carpet

On this day in 1982, ABC debuted a new television series that was based on both a popular movie and a hit song. 9 to 5 starred Rita Moreno, Dolly Parton's younger sisterRachel Dennison, and Valerie Curtin as the core characters.

A second version of the series, which added Sally Struthers to the cast, hit television screens via syndication in 1986.

The original movie titled 9 to 5 premiered in 1980. It starred Parton, Lily Tomlin, and Jane Fonda along with Dabney Coleman. The ladies played colleagues who worked for Franklin Hart (Coleman), a difficult boss.

The movie version of 9 to 5 marked Parton's first film role. She played Doralee Rhodes, which was played by her younger sister Dennison in the television series.

Fonda, and later Curtin, played Judy Bernly. Tomlin and Moreno portrayed Violet Newstead.

In the new episodes that were incorporated into syndication in 1986, Struthers stepped in to play Marsha McMurray Shrimpton, as Moreno was unavailable to reprise the character of Newstead.

In the first season of 9 to 5 on TV, Jeffrey Tambor played the character of Hart. In Seasons 2 and 3, Peter Bonerz took over the role.

According to Rewind Magazine, the first season of 9 to 5 stuck fairly close to the original movie in terms of storylines, and only consisted of four episodes. In its brief Season 1 run, the show ranked 33rd in the Nielsen television ratings.

Season 2 strayed further from the original storylines and incorporated new characters. 9 to 5 performed strongly for ABC, climbing as high as 15th in the Nielsen ratings.

There was stiff competition for high ratings in that season, with other shows such as Dallas, M*A*S*H, Magnum P.I., Dynasty, and Three's Company dominating the television landscape.

The television series marked something of a shift in Moreno's career. She had been acting for years when cast for the series, and was already an EGOT winner when the series debuted. Moreno won an Oscar in 1962, a Grammy in 1972, a Tony in 1975, and two Emmy Awards, in 1977 and 1978.

Moreno's Oscar was for Best Supporting Actress in West Side Story. The Grammy was in the Best Recording for Children category for The Electric Company, and the Tony was in the Best Featured Actress category for The Ritz.

Her first Emmy Award came after an appearance on The Muppet Show. Moreno's second Emmy was awarded to her after a guest role on The Rockford Files.

9 to 5, the song, the movie, and the television show, are still fondly remembered by fans all these decades later.

There have been billions of books published around the world, and it’s going to be impossible to read all of them. However, there are some that will always stand the test of time, bringing lessons to be learned no matter how the world changes while also being entertaining. Some of those have to be read at least once, and Goodreads has a list for that.

The site has a section for “Books That Everyone Should Read At Least Once,” and rather than being listed by what’s in the “Want to Read” shelf, this section is voted on by users. There is one that stands out from 66 years ago, proving that the age of the book doesn’t mean it loses its meaning.

The Goodreads users have spoken, and they say that To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is the top book to read at least once. Behind it are Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen and The Diary of Anne Frank by Anne Frank, although they’re not in close contention.

Published in 1960, To Kill a Mockingbird would go on to win the Pulitzer Prize in 1961. It would take more than 50 years for the sequel to follow, and according to Lee’s agent, Andrew Nurnberg, the whole series was supposed to be a trilogy. However, the sequel, Go Set a Watchman was reportedly lost until 2013 and then published in 2015.

While Go Set a Watchman was written before To Kill a Mockingbird, it’s set 20 years later. This did lead to some speculation that it was the first draft of the first novel, until Lee changed the plot.

It’s not surprising that To Kill a Mockingbird is at the top of the list of books that everyone should read at least once. This is a story of a time that can’t be forgotten, of a society that can’t be allowed to return.

It follows the story of a Black man charged with the rape of a white girl. The lawyer narrating the story is the man defending the Black man during a time of heavy racism and hypocrisy. After all, it’s the Deep South in the 1930s, but that doesn’t mean everyone could idly sit by and watch an injustice happen.

Sadly, it’s a story that remains relevant for all the wrong reasons. As injustices prevail, so must a novel like this.

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Sometimes a product comes along that just screams overachiever. That's exactly what you want from outdoor gear, especially during this time of year. As you begin planning camping, entertaining, and vacation adventures, it's worth considering a portable chair for your list of essentials. One that's equipped with multifunctional features has the potential to become your MVP throughout spring and summer!

That's the case with the Coleman Portable Camping Chair. It's basically the chair of your dreams, brought to life by the purveyors of top-selling coolers. The brand naturally built a cooler into this chair, too, along with a slew of other features that make it both comfortable and incredibly functional. Marked down from $59 to just $40 during Amazon's Big Spring Sale, it's an excellent investment for any outdoor enthusiast.

Courtesy of Amazon

Available in black, navy, and red, the chair offers everything you could possibly want but didn't realize you actually needed. The seat and back are both cushioned for maximum support, keeping you comfortable no matter how long you plan to kick back and relax. The cooler is designed to hold up to four cans at a time, so your favorite beverages will stay chilled for hours. There's also a handy mesh cup holder built into one armrest, along with a roomy side pocket that conveniently holds anything from your phone to a book.

Coleman designed its camping chair with thoughtful technical features that set it apart. It supports up to 325 pounds thanks to the robust and durable steel frame, with a comfortably wide 24-inch seat that provides generous wiggle room. The arms are adjustable, so you can truly customize the setup to meet your specific comfort needs.

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The real highlight is the portability factor. When it's not in use, it folds up in just seconds and slides easily into the included carrying case. At just 8.2 pounds, the chair is just the right weight. It's secure and substantial, but not so heavy that you'll have trouble moving it around. That will come in especially handy during outdoor events, whether you're tailgating or just transporting it from one spot on your patio to another. 

With over 7,900 verified five-star reviews, the chair has earned praise for its quality construction and next level features. It's "sturdy and good looking," one shopper noted, adding that the design is “genius” and that the brand "thought of everything." 

Another customer agreed. "I can't believe the quality for this price. It's really well made and very easy to set up." Many people were also impressed with the soft padding, sharing that it amplified their comfort when they sat for hours.

• Armor Castle Folding Camping Table, $42 (was $56) at Amazon
• Verdeluxe Octagonal Fire Pit, $98 (was $119) at Amazon
• Grenebo 9-Piece Gardening Tools Set, $26 (was $34) at Amazon

As your warm weather plans start taking shape, you'll appreciate having the versatileColeman Portable Camping Chair handy. Suitable for getaways, games, entertaining, and beyond, it checks every box for an excellent price.

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Abbott Elementary is back this week with a new episode. Season 5, Episode 17, titled “No Homework,” takes the show back to its roots of rapid-fire zingers and heartfelt moments that make this ABC comedy one of the funniest shows on TV. In this week’s episode, Principal Ava (Janelle James) institutes a no-homework policy at Abbott Elementary after a run-in with frenemy and competing elementary school principal Crystal (Tatyana Ali).

Keep reading to find out how and when to watch Abbott Elementary and to get a sneak peek at what this week’s “No Homework” has in store.

Abbott Elementary is all new Wednesday, March 25, 2026, as the teachers of Abbott Elementary try to rebound after Principal Ava’s new no-homework policy wreaks havoc on the school.

Wednesday’s episode airs from 8:30–9:02 p.m. ET/PT on ABC and will be available for streaming on Hulu the next day.

Season 5 of Abbott Elementary has featured A-list guest stars like the Philadelphia Phillies’ Kyle Schwarber,Shrinking’s Luke Tennie, and NewsRadio’s Khandi Alexander. Former The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air star Tatyana Ali reprises her role as Ava’s former sorority sister turned competing principal at rival elementary school Liberty Rings in tonight’s episode. Ali returns to her hilarious, ultra-competitive role and brings back Ava and Crystal’s side-splitting feud seen across Seasons 3 and 4.

“No Homework” delivers the laugh-out-loud one-liners that made Quinta Brunson’s comedy a critical darling and an awards show favorite. What continues to make this show one of the most reliable comedies on television is its carefully crafted characters who, despite their flaws and foibles, always manage to come together as a family—even when Principal Ava throws the school into complete chaos and hilarity.

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Despite my personal aversion to some foods, it takes a lot to shock me. For the most part, I'm pretty open-minded about what other people like to eat, and as long as there's no mayo involved, I'll probably give it a try. That doesn't necessarily mean I'm lining up to put anchovies on my ice cream, but objectively speaking, a sundae could potentially benefit from a hit of salty umami. And who knows? It could end up actually tasting okay. All that is to say, when it comes to what's on someone else's plate, I'm usually in support of their right to eat whatever they want—emphasis on usually.

Unless, of course, your meal choice includes going to Panda Express and only getting white rice and a Diet Coke, and then combining them together like some sort of weird science experiment. That's where I draw the line. Not an egg roll or the tiniest morsel of orange chicken. Just white rice mixed with Diet Coke. It sounds like dirty soda gone wrong, IMO, and while you might expect it to be some toddler's hyperfixation of the moment, this particular combo in question was the brainchild of none other than theMiley Cyrus. 

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Related: New First-of-Its-Kind Cereal Takes Boy Kibble Literally and People Have Thoughts

In case you missed it, the Hannah Montana: 20th Anniversary Special aired on Disney+ on March 23, and while it was indeed a nostalgic trip down memory lane for millennials, we also got to learn a little bit more about what it was like behind the scenes. During one particular anecdote in her interview with Alex Cooper, Miley shared that her go-to meal at Panda Express was white rice and Diet Coke. And although the combo on its own doesn't necessarily sound offensive, the way she ate it does. 

"My favorite thing to get at Panda Express was the white rice and pour Diet Coke on top. Instead of soy sauce, I'd do Diet Coke. It's a whole thing," she admitted. Yeah, we're having a hard time defending this one. She did at least acknowledge that the mixture was "really gnarly" and also suspected that it may have weirded out her co-star Emily Osment. "No wonder she was like, 'Who is this bumpkin that they got?'" she said. Beyond that, though, she didn't explain where the idea came from other than saying that she's "from the South in a way that it's really hard to describe."

As someone also from the South, Diet Coke over white rice is a new one to me. But as I said earlier, this is a safe space. We listen, and we don't judge. At least we try not to. So, what's your verdict? Does white rice mixed with Diet Coke sound like sweet niblets, or was Hannah Montana's wig a little too tight?

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Beloved The Young and the Restlessstar Eric Braeden has revealed a health issue kept him away from work on the CBS soap.

Braeden posted a video on Facebook to share that he was recovering from pneumonia.

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“Hello, everyone. I haven't talked to you for a while. I had pneumonia for about two weeks, and I'm over there now,” he expressed, revealing it hit multiple members of his family.

However, at age 84, it took a toll on Braeden. “Pneumonia is no walk in the park. In fact, you can't walk. That's the point. I mean, it hits you like a ton of bricks,” the soap star added.

Thankfully, with the help of medicine and rest, Braeden has returned to work and is almost feeling normal. Braeden shared that he has been slowly getting back into his workout routine. He also opened up about having to take off from the CBS soap.

“I had to make up for not being there for two weeks, so the last two or three weeks were a lot of work and a lot of days of double duty. But we survived it. So, I love being back to work, love being back with my colleagues. It's nice to see Melody and Joshua and Mark and Amelia and everyone, really. Michelle Stafford. What a privilege to be able to go to work, you know? It really is,” Braeden gushed about his job.

Despite his health setback, Braeden’s grateful to be breathing normally again and not having any serious, lasting effects. The actor is almost 85, so any illness can be scary.

Related: ‘The Young and the Restless’ and Hallmark Star Reveals Secret Wedding

After reassuring The Young and the Restless fans he was doing fine, Braeden teased what’s coming up on the show, especially now that Victor and Nikki (Melody Thomas Scott) have split.

“I have some difficult scenes with Melody, who plays my wife. Afterwards, we hug each other because we know we did a good job, but whoa. You know, I don't like to scream at her,” he spilled.

Fans will see the scenes Braeden was referring to in the next four to six weeks, as that is how far in advance the CBS soap films.

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Outlander fans are used to seeing changes from book to screen. There are times those changes are necessary, and there are times that they’re not quite as needed. There’s no doubt that many book-first fans are angered by the decision of the Faith plot throughout Outlander Season 8, just as an example.

However, while Matt B. Roberts and Maril Davis will run with changes to help their story, there are some that they back peddle on. This is when Diana Gabaldon makes it clear that a change wouldn’t be best for the overall tale. If she is adamant about something, they will listen.

Book fans were ready for Black Jack Randall’s death at the Battle of Culloden. It happened during the books, and it was a clear end to this part of Jamie’s story. There was absolutely no need to keep him alive after this point, and yet, the show’s creative team considered it. 

Roberts shared with SYFY Wire that this idea didn’t go down well with Herself, as book fans adoringly refer to her. Gabaldon simply said, “I wish you wouldn’t,” and that was it.

It makes sense that as show creators they thought about keeping him alive. There are some substantial differences between shows and books, and with TV shows, the actors make their characters their own. They jump off the screen, and they can pull viewers in via ways that book characters can’t necessarily manage.

However, Black Jack Randall had his time, and that time was over during the Battle of Culloden. In fact, it’s something that comes up on Outlander Season 8, as Claire thinks about using knowledge as power. Black Jack’s date of death was the one that she knew and could hold over him, so in the end, his death date had to remain the same.

While characters have died in the books, they haven’t always on the show, and that’s because of the way the characters have come to life thanks to their actors. One of those was Murtagh Fitzgibbons Fraser, who was supposed to have died at the Battle of Culloden. In the end, we met him again at Ardsmuir Prison and Jamie and Young Ian later come across him in Wilmington, North Carolina.

At one point, he was going to be in Jamaica. Gabaldon offered a way to make the most of the inclusion of the character that better suited both the character and the narrative, leading to Murtagh becoming disenfranchised after his time as an indentured servant and leading the Regulators.

So, for those who don’t think the Outlander showrunners ever listen to Gabaldon, they do. When it really matters to the overall story. That doesn’t mean they’ll listen every single time, as the show is their own adaptation.

43 years ago, a cult classic hit theaters, launching the careers of Tom Cruise,Patrick Swayze, and other future ’80s stars.

That movie? Francis Ford Coppola’s epic adaptation of The Outsiders, based on the book of the same name by S.E. Hinton. On this day in 1983, moviegoers were introduced to the Greasers and the Socs in one of the most popular and beloved movies of all time.

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Along with Swayze and Cruise, The Outsiders starred Matt Dillon, C. Thomas Howell,Ralph Macchio,Rob Lowe, Emilio Estevez, Diane Lane, Leif Garrett, and Darren Dalton. The entire cast was largely unknown at the time.

I remember it like it was yesterday... The film adaptation of The Outsiders, directed by Francis Ford Coppola, was released on this day in U.S. theaters, March 25, 1983. It is known for its ensemble cast of future stars, including Tom Cruise, C. Thomas Howell, Patrick Swayze, Rob… pic.twitter.com/ZhYhWjda30

That didn’t last long, as The Outsiders’success quickly thrust them into fame, taking their careers to new heights.

The Outsiders film is set in Oklahoma in the 1950s, focusing on Ponyboy Curtis (Howell) and his brothers, Sodapop (Lowe) and Daryl (Swayze), along with their Greaser friends. When trouble finds Ponyboy and Johnny (Macchio), their lives are forever changed.

The film goes down in cinema history; however, what was released wasn’t the version that Coppola wanted because so much of the book was removed. Coppola reiterated that during an interview on Lowe’s podcast, Literally with Rob Lowe. The director fought with the studio over the version that was released in 1983 because there was so much more to the movie that didn’t make the cut.

In 2021, The Outsiders: The Complete Novel was released in movie theaters. It’s the version Coppola wanted and falls more in line with the book, including additional scenes from both before and after the original film’s timeline.

Lowe often compares filming the movie to summer camp because the cast, many teens and young adults, stayed in a hotel in Oklahoma at the time. The actor has also referred to The Outsiders as his frat brothers because of the bond that they formed back then.

Howell has previously stated that he is still remembered from the movie, with fans even quoting the infamous "Nothing Gold Can Stay" poem by Robert Frost, which Ponyboy tells Johnny in the movie.

When he appeared on Lowe's podcast, Macchio admitted that fans still come up to him and say his famous The Outsiders line, “Stay gold, Ponyboy.”

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Decades later, The Outsiders is as popular as ever. Along with new generations finding the movie, The Outsiders: A New Musical is currently on Broadway, based on Hinton’s book, produced by Hollywood legend Angelina Jolie.

Next: ‘Wild Thing’ Songwriter Chip Taylor Dead at 89: What We Know About Angelina Jolie’s Uncle’s Cause of Death

There’s something about that first wave of seasonal finds at Costco that signals a shift in the air. Shoppers start spotting hosting essentials, patio upgrades and warm-weather staples popping up in stores, and suddenly, spring feels real. One Costco item currently getting attention is a drink dispenser that looks far more expensive than its price tag suggests.

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The Denmark Drink Dispenser, shown by @costcohotfinds, is quietly becoming a fan favorite, and it’s easy to see why. Priced at just $22, it delivers a polished, elevated look that shoppers say feels more in line with pieces you’d find at Pottery Barn or Crate & Barrel.

The design leans into a clean, modern aesthetic. Both the lid and base are made from ceramic, giving it a sturdy, upscale feel that stands out from the typical plastic dispenser. A stainless steel spigot adds durability while keeping the overall look sleek. It also features a glass beverage container, which enhances the high-end look.

Functionality matches the style. The dispenser holds up to two gallons, making it ideal for serving larger groups without constant refills. It’s also designed with an extra-wide opening, so pouring drinks is quick and mess-free. Whether you’re filling mason jars with lemonade or topping off glasses with iced tea, it’s built for convenience.

Shoppers in the comments are already calling it fancy and praising how substantial it feels for the price point.

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Beyond its design, timing is a big part of the buzz. One commenter said that when Costco starts putting things like this out on the floor, it's the unofficial start of summer. Even though it’s still early in the season, products like this tend to spark ideas for outdoor gatherings and casual entertaining.

The dispenser is especially appealing for warm-weather hosting. Its large capacity makes it perfect for serving crowd-pleasers like lemonade, fruit-infused water or batch cocktails at barbecues, birthday parties and holiday celebrations. Think Mother’s Day brunches, Father’s Day cookouts or graduation parties where guests can help themselves.

Some shoppers even noted they hope Costco brings back its popular acacia wood drink dispenser, but in the meantime, this ceramic version is filling the gap with a more refined look.

This find blends style and practicality in a way that makes entertaining feel effortless, without stretching your budget.

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