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Dean Franklin, who was a contestant on The Voice UK, was confirmed to have died at the age of 36. His mother confirmed the heartbreaking news on social media, with Franklin having announced his diagnosis with oesophageal cancer last year.

According to the Facebook post, Franklin died on Saturday, Feb. 7, months after he was diagnosed with stage 4 oesophageal cancer in December.

"As a family, we are truly heartbroken to announce that our precious boy, Dean Franklin who fought so courageously over 8 weeks and 3 days passed over at 21.39pm last night," Marie wrote. "He was surrounded by love."

"I have been getting MSG's from people this morning and wanted as his ma to manifest my son's courage to share with you all. As a family, we will post in more length when we are able," she added. "Until then, please know that the love you gave to our Dean and all of us has meant so very much."

Her post was accompanied by a photo of Franklin in a hospital bed, with his family holding onto his hand.

In December 2025, the singer-songwriter announced his cancer diagnosis with a video on Instagram and explained how his life had "changed very fast." He details being diagnosed with esophageal cancer that had rapidly and aggressively spread to his liver, while adding that he had virtually no symptoms from the cancer.

"Sometimes cancer doesn’t shout where it starts. Sometimes it whispers and shows itself somewhere else," he said.

At the time, he assured fans that he was receiving and continuing with treatment. He had chosen to "keep fighting" with chemo despite the difficulties and challenges, especially at night. Franklin finished the video asking fans to get regular check-ups and to not ignore health concerns.

Related: Singer and Former ‘Voice’ Contestant Dead at 26 After Snake Bite

A GoFundMe page was also started during his treatment, with Franklin explaining it was to help support his daughter amid his cancer treatment. The page has since gathered over $38,000.

Franklin appeared as a contestant on The Voice UK during Season 5 and impressed the judges with his rendition of "You Do Something To Me." The street performer's voice caught the attention of Paloma Faith, who mentored him during the season.

Jennifer Lopez is putting in the work at the gym, and she's looking better than everyone else while she does it.

The singer and actress, 56, took to Instagram to share a photo of herself in the gym on Tuesday, and the revealing snap set the Internet on fire thanks to Lopez's hard-earned body and stunning good looks. With her long hair cascading down her back, the beauty stared at herself in the mirror as she took the picture.

"Keep it simple…," she captioned the steamy photo, which included a plum-colored workout set revealing her rock-hard abs and voluptuous chest. In the second slide, Lopez featured text from a book that read, "The goal is simple. Better than yesterday. Every. Single. Day."

View this post on Instagram

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Lopez Loves to Show Off Her Diverse Looks

Lopez may be best known for her long, brown locks, but the singer and actress can pull off platinum blonde hair with the best of them. She recently shared a series of snaps from her role in the musical drama Kiss of the Spider Woman, in which she played a movie star whose most famous role is that of a spider woman, capable of killing her lovers with a kiss, according to Variety. Directed by Bill Condon, the film stars Diego Luna and Tonatiuh as a political prisoner and a window dresser who bond while recalling the plot of a musical.

View this post on Instagram Jennifer Lopez Spoke Out About Her Failed ‘Evita’ Audition

Like any actress, Lopez has missed out on several roles, too. She recently opened up about how she always wanted the leading role in Evita, the 1996 film about Eva Peron. However, things didn’t exactly go as planned.

“I went to audition for Evita for [director] Alan Parker,” Lopez shared during a screening this week. “I had been practicing for weeks, and I sing my heart out, and he goes, ‘You’re amazing. You know Madonna has the part, right?”

Disappointed, Lopez went on her way.

“I said, ‘OK, bye-bye. Nice to meet you,’” Lopez recalled, laughing.

Jennifer Lopez recalls auditioning for “Evita.” @JLo #justforvarietyhttps://t.co/AW1qWtC3zm pic.twitter.com/qr3gtrHl8D

— Marc Malkin (@marcmalkin) September 11, 2025

Lopez went on to say that she always wanted to be in a musical since seeing West Side Story as a child. She also auditioned for musical moviesChicago and Nine, Variety reported.

Lopez said she is getting her turn now and is more excited than ever.

“But we put our heart and soul into it, and we rehearsed like crazy for the time that we had, and it was a beautiful thin,g and again, I’m living my childhood dreams,” she added, according to the publication.

Related: Jennifer Lopez’s Ex-Husband Marc Anthony Says He Doesn’t ‘Need Advice’ From Her on Vegas Residency

The ship will be rocking again in 2027.

ShipRocked, the annual hard rock cruise, has announced its 2027 edition after the 2026 cruise sold out with more than 4,100 guests onboard.

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The 2027 edition, which will mark the cruise’s 17th anniversary, will sail from Miami to Mahogany Bay in Roatan, Honduras and Cozumel, Mexico on Jan. 24-30, 2027, onboard the Carnival Horizon, event producer ASK4 Entertainment announced. The lineup for ShipRocked 2027 has yet to be revealed.

The announcement comes after the smashing success of ShipRocked 2026, which sailed from Jan. 25-31.

The cruse was headlined by heavy hitters Halestorm, Motionless In White and Knocked Loose with a bevy of support acts, including Wage War, AWOLNATION, Suicidal Tendencies, Avatar, Starset, Sleep Theory, as well as The Stowaways All-Star Band featuring members of I Prevail, Hollywood Undead, Ice Nine Kills, P.O.D., Atreyu and others.

Along with the music, the cruise also raised money for a good cause. The Cancer Sucks! onboard charity auction pulled in a record-breaking $200,000, bringing the total to more than $1.2 million raised on ShipRocked cruises to date for medical research to find a cure for cancer.

Some of the highlights from ShipRocked 2026 included Halestorm’s special “ShipDocked” performance on the boat when it was in port Nassau in the Bahamas, Wage War’s surprise acoustic set in the ship’s atrium lobby lounge on the final night of the cruise, and Aaron Bruno doing double duty performing sets with AWOLNATION (including their cruise-appropriate anthem “Sail”) and the Barbarians of California.

Aside from the music, the cruise featured meet-and-greets, tropical port visits, theme nights, an on-ship tattoo parlor, and more traditional cruise activities with a metal twist, including blackjack and dodgeball tournaments, live band karaoke, game shows, trivia contests, singles mixers and heavy metal morning yoga.

Highlights of the madness from ShipRocked 2026 have been compiled in a video now streaming on YouTube.

Guests from ShipRocked 2026 are already pre-registered for 2027. Others can find ShipRocked pre-sale information on the cruise’s official website, ShipRocked.com.

If you celebrate Valentine’s Day, you know just how quickly it can turn into an expensive holiday.

Between flowers marked up for the week and boxed chocolates priced like luxury items, even small gestures can start to feel over-the-top. Chocolate-covered strawberries are a perfect example. From specialty shops, a dozen berries can easily run $50 or more, putting what should be a simple treat firmly in splurge territory.

That’s where warehouse clubs tend to shine, and this year Sam’s Club is leaning into that strength in a way that feels a little different. Instead of simply stocking chocolate-dipped strawberries in a refrigerated case, the club is making the process a fun in-store experience.

Chocolate-covered strawberries from Sam’s Club.

Photo Credit: Sam’s Club

From February 12 through February 14, Sam’s Club is setting up chocolate-dipping stations in stores near the jewelry counter. Members can purchase freshly dipped strawberries, including a 12-count, 2-pound option priced at $9.98 and a long-stemmed 12-count option priced at $12.98. It’s not just the price that stands out, but the freshness factor. These berries are dipped right there in front of you, which is something you rarely see outside of specialty shops.

Related: This New Sam’s Club Deli Meal Is Comfort Food With a Protein Boost

Adding to the Valentine’s Week vibe, roughly 150 locations will also offer wine tastings, where permitted by law. For shoppers already making a stop for groceries or household essentials, it turns an ordinary warehouse run into something far more festive.

How to Store Chocolate-Covered Strawberries

Freshness is a big part of the appeal of chocolate-covered strawberries, but they do have a short shelf life. According to Food Network, chocolate-covered strawberries are best enjoyed within 24 to 48 hours. Once dipped, they should be stored in the refrigerator in a single layer, ideally in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture.

Food Network also notes that condensation is the biggest enemy of chocolate-covered strawberries, which is why keeping them chilled and covered makes such a difference. While they can technically last up to two days, they’re at their best on day one, when the chocolate is set, and the berries are still firm and juicy.

That’s what makes an in-club dipping station especially appealing. You’re not picking up something that’s been sitting in the fridge. You’re bringing home strawberries at their freshest, paired with a price point that makes this Valentine’s Day classic feel refreshingly accessible.

As Alyssa Farah Griffin prepares to go on maternity leave from The View, she's has a word of advice for the rotating co-hosts who will fill in for her while she's gone.

"Authentically be yourself," she told View producer Brian Teta while chatting on the 'Behind the Table' podcast on Monday. "Each of us brings our own view, you're not here as a Republican party spokesperson, you're not here as a defender of the current administration, you're not here as an opponent, you're there to say authentically what you believe when presented with the issues of the day."

As for who will be sitting in Griffin's chair, Teta mentioned that co-hosts including former View panelists Abby Huntsman and Elisabeth Hasselbeck will be filling in as well as TV personalities Savannah Chrisley and Sheryl Underwood, comedian Whitney Cummings, and Amanda Carpenter along with "other names we haven't announced yet," Teta said.

And while Huntsman and Hasselbeck have had a seat at The View table before, Griffin still advised the incoming substitutes to be genuine with the show's savvy viewers.

"It took me time to learn but it comes through more with the audience," she said of the hosts being themselves. "Like 'I know [the host is] saying genuinely what they believe rather than what they're supposed to.'"

Griffin announced she was expecting in October during a segment on the show. Typically, Griffin represents a right-leaning political view point and also weighs in on pop culture news.

And while Tuesday will be her last day at the table before starting leave, she ultimately wants her temporary replacements to work well with her co-hosts Whoopi Goldberg, Joy Behar, Sunny Hostin, and Sara Haines.

"I respect and love my co-hosts so I want people who are going to respect and love them," she said. "You want to treat it like you're having coffee or a meal with your girlfriends who have different viewpoints than you [and realize] these are women with different experiences from you and you can learn from them and they can learn from you."

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Savannah Guthrie's mom, Nancy Guthrie, has been missing since Sunday, Feb. 1. Early on in the case, the Pima County Sheriff's Department (PCSD) shared some information about Nancy's whereabouts before her disappearance. As the timeline goes, Nancy, 84, took an Uber to her daughter Annie Guthrie's home on Saturday, Jan. 31, where she had dinner with Annie and Annie's husband, Tommaso Cioni. After dinner, they played Mahjong, and Sheriff Chris Nanostold The New York Times that it was Cioni who drove Nancy home around 9:30 p.m. local time.

Authorities believe that Nancy was abducted overnight. The next morning—Sunday, Feb. 1—PCSD said that Nancy was expected to attend a morning service at a nearby church, but when she wasn't present, a friend became concerned and called the family.

Now, we're learning that might not be exactly what happened.

Related: Annie Guthrie and Tommaso Cioni’s Home Search: What Is Luminol and Why Is it Used? (Exclusive)

On Monday, Feb. 9, Fox News spoke to a source who said that Nancy did not attend in-person church services. Instead, she attended virtually with a group of friends. The source explained that this has been going on since the pandemic—the women would go to one another's homes to watch a "New York–based church service via livestream."

"Nancy was expected to be at a friend’s home to watch the livestream, as she had done every week. When she failed to arrive, members of the friend group became concerned," Fox News reports. From there, one of the women in the group called Nancy's daughter Annie, letting her know that Nancy didn't show up and she hadn't been reachable.

Nancy's pastor, Michael Rudzena, later confirmed to People that she had been attending services virtually.

“Like many of our digital parishioners, Nancy began tuning in virtually to Good Shepherd services during the pandemic and later continued to gather with friends to watch and worship. Over the years, in person and online, Nancy shared encouragements that gave us a window into the Bible readings and songs that are especially meaningful to her faith," Rudzena told the publication.

Parade has reached out to St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, the church that many believed Nancy attended, but has not heard back.

READ NEXT: Savannah Guthrie’s Mom Update: FBI Not Aware of Continued Contact With Suspected Kidnappers

A fulfilling romanticrelationship is what many of us strive for. Going through life with our soulmate can be beautiful. It can also be complicated. No matter how strong the love is between the couple, there are differences in each individual's personality, interests and goals. Even little things that may have been tolerated at the beginning of a relationship can become annoying as the couple gets more comfortable with each other. As odd as that may sound, there are actually four major stages in a relationship.

This definitely does not mean doom and gloom is expected with any potential relationship. It just means that there will be challenges from time to time, depending on the stage of the relationship that you are in. Luckily, there are some easy ways to overcome conflicts, allowing true love to prevail. There is no definite time period for each of the following stages. Some couples get through all of them rather quickly, while others take more time.

If you want to know which one you and your S.O. are on this Valentine's Day, read on!

Related: 50 Relationship Goals That'll Help You Grow Closer as a Couple

The 4 Major Stages of a Relationship Explained

Milan Radulovic's Images/Canva

Dr. Stan Hyman, therapist and coach, works with couples every day who are struggling in their relationship. Dr. Hyman has explained that "couples struggling with the process of growing a relationship need to understand that it is similar to parenting a growing child from birth to adulthood. All parents are challenged during this time."

He goes on to say, "Serious love relationships go through stages of development which parallel individual human stages of development, from infancy to maturity."

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Stage 1: The Euphoric Stage

The euphoric stage is the "falling-in-love stage." It's when we can overlook any and all faults of the other person. For this reason, there is very little conflict at this stage. A feeling of oneness is strong. In fact, the connection and chemistry are strong enough to bring about separation anxiety—you want to be with the other person all of the time. It's also probably the most likely time that a woman will receive flowers.

According to scientists, the brain produces dopamine and norepinephrine when we do something that feels good. Since high levels of these chemicals are released at the beginning of a relationship, a person tends to feel extra giddy or euphoric when falling in love.

This stage typically lasts around six months (but can go up to around two years). During this stage, it's probably best not to make any major decisions about the relationship. The time it takes to really get to know the other person is crucial for future success.

Related: 25 Relationship Check-In Questions for You and Your Partner

Stage 2: The Reality Check

Human nature tends to be selfish. At some point, our individual needs and interests will be revisited, and annoyances will not be tolerated as easily as in the first stage of love. Life also gets hectic with other responsibilities and commitments, and it becomes harder to get that quality one-on-one time.

"In the first stage, you may have wanted to spend all your time with each other, but as you enter stage two, it's normal and healthy to want time separate from your partner," psychotherapist Samantha Westhouse, LLMSW, tells Parade. "If you start finding yourself defensive as your partner starts wanting more alone time, know it's not personal, and it's actually healthy."

For the relationship to be successful, this has to be a time of serious communication and some self-sacrifice. While our needs are important, so are the needs of the one we love. Many strong relationships still thrive in this stage, and a little bit of compromise goes a long way. When individuals can grow on their own and still maintain a strong connection as a couple, it is a good, powerful thing.

The working out of conflicts that begin to emerge at this stage is what brings about a stronger attachment.

Related: Psychologists Reveal 8 Surprising Signs of a Healthy Relationship

RyanKing999/Canva

Stage 3: The Crisis Stage

Once a couple makes it through the reality check and a stronger attachment is formed, the crisis stage comes. At this point, everything about each other is out in the open. Since you have become even more comfortable with each other, you really know each other's strengths and weaknesses. 

"As you enter this stage, it's so important to have your expectations and dealbreakers," Westhouse explains. "Many people at this stage may feel like they have invested a lot of time into the relationship and, of course, find it hard to end it. If you want kids and your partner has been adamant about not having children, this may come to a breaking point in this stage."

At this point, couples will usually decide if this is the true person they want to be with. For many couples, this stage is also confirming when you are still deeply in love with the other person. However, when couples are not in harmony, this could be the breaking point of the relationship.

Stage 4: The Settling Down Stage

At this point, a couple has learned to communicate with each other and knows how to weather any storms. It's a calm stage where the couple has respect for each other and has a feeling of security in the relationship.

"This is the most mature love," Westhouse shares. "Many folks in this stage that battle with instability in relationships may find this stage to be boring or signal to them that since it's not 'dramatic' like before, it's not real love. But that couldn't be further from the truth."

This is the stage where a couple finds they are able to finish each other's sentences (pardon the cliché). They know each other so well that an even deeper attachment is formed. When you find each other predictable, it can be incredibly comforting.

Sources

• Samantha Westhouse, LLMSW, psychotherapist

Related: Everyone's Talking About Attachment Styles in Relationships—Which One Are You?

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Niche but viral, dopamine decor has become a popular trend on social media over the past few years. Full of eclectic, whimsical, unique pieces, it’s a decor idea that promotes things that spark joy rather than sticking to traditional design rules. If you’re looking for something that’s just as practical and functional as it is quirky, this Zionnyxviana Goose Key Holder at Amazon is definitely worth checking out.

This goose key holder normally retails for $23, which is already a fantastic price, but you can now score it on sale for just $20. Similar to the once-popular porch goose trend, this one comes with nine accessories so you can dress it up — it might spark some nostalgia! 

Zionnyxviana Goose Key Holder, $20 (was $23) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Measuring around 3 inches wide and 7 inches tall, this goose figurine is ideal for anyone who was obsessed with the porch goose trend but never wanted to commit to the full-size version. You can place it anywhere from your desk to your foyer console to add a bit of whimsy to your living space. It’s made of resin and is hand-painted with vibrant orange accents. The orange beak and webbed feet give this goose a pop of color, allowing it to really stand out. 

While the goose is already incredibly adorable on its own, you can choose from 10 different knitted accessories to dress it up according to the season for some additional flair. During the winter, you can dress it with the two included striped scarves. It also comes with two heart-shaped sunglasses and two bikini tops, which are ideal for summertime. Just as charming, the three more evergreen accessories include a camera on a chain, a floral hat, and a bunny hat.

Multiple reviewers mentioned that they use this goose as a decor piece on their desk. One shopper said that it “brings some joy to the office.” They also added that the accessories that came with the goose are “very fun.”

Related: Amazon’s ‘Whimsical’ $25 Fairy Stake Light Looks Like It Belongs in a Storybook Garden

As functional as it is decorative, the underside of the goose’s neck is magnetic, offering you a convenient place to hang your keychain. If you’re someone who tends to misplace your keys and upends your entire home to search for them, this can prevent that from happening. Curious to see how it works? Check out this shopper’s image to see it in action! 

Shop More Deals 

• Renmxj 8-Piece Flower and Vase Magnets, $13 (was $22) at Amazon
• Fuzskwid Cat and Mouse Pop-Up Hooks, From $8 (was $18) at Amazon
• Guiguzhj Flower Table Lamp, From $23 (was $29) at Amazon

Combining a recent viral aesthetic with a nostalgic trend, the Zionnyxviana Goose Key Holder is the best of both worlds. If you’re looking to add some joy and practicality to your home, be sure to head over to Amazon and grab this goose and accessories set for just $20! 

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Super Bowl LX made history with Bad Bunny because he performed the first all-Spanish Halftime performance. There were many references to Puerto Rican culture and it ended with a message unifying the Americas. Real Housewives of New York alum, Jill Zarin made an Instagram video criticizing the performance, and now a business with her name is distancing itself from her publicly.

Zarin Fabrics Says Jill Zarin Hasn’t Been Their Owner View this post on Instagram

Zarin Fabrics posted an Instagram picture of Zarin with a huge red X across her face on February 9. "Zarin Fabrics stands firmly against racism, discrimination, and rhetoric that seeks to exclude or diminish people based on identity, culture, or background," the caption read. "We want to be absolutely clear that Jill Zarin has not had ownership of or been associated with Zarin Fabrics for several years. Our company operates independently, and any public statements attributed to her are made in a personal capacity and do not reflect our values, beliefs, or operations."

The company ended the statement listing the principles behind the fabric upholstery and drapery fabrics store. "Zarin Fabrics is built on creativity, collaboration, and respect for the diverse communities that shape art, culture, and expression," read the statement. "We condemn language or viewpoints that undermine those principles, and we remain committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment in everything we do."

The reality star called Bad Bunny's performance "the worst halftime show ever" and found it inappropriate that it was in Spanish. "To me, it looked like a political statement," she said. Lady Gaga joined the stage to perform her song with Bruno Mars, "Die With a Smile." Zarin also criticized the Oscar winner's looks, claiming she got "a facelift, I didn’t recognize her, I literally had to Google her face to see who it was because we all couldn’t agree who it was." Zarin later deleted the video.

In the grand scheme of things, the Academy Awards are filled with critically acclaimed actors who never imagined they'd take home the Oscar for their performance.

One such actor was Michael Douglas, who famously won the Academy Award for Best Actor in the 1987 crime drama, Wall Street.

While Douglas handed in a remarkable performance as the slick-haired, smooth-talking New York stockbroker Gordon Gekko, the 81-year-old recently admitted that the movie's director left him with severe doubts about his on-set acting abilities.

According to People magazine, Douglas recounted an incident early on in Wall Street's production where filmmaker Oliver Stone harshly criticized his performance.

“Okay, so we were finishing the second week of filming, and there was a knock on my door. ‘Hey Mike, it’s Oliver. Can I come in?’” Douglas recalled. “I say, ‘Yeah, come on in.’ He comes in the trailer and sits down. He says to me, ‘You okay?’ I said, ‘Yeah, I'm okay.’ "

"[He asks], ‘Are you doing drugs?’ I said, ‘No, I’m not doing drugs.’ And he said, ‘Because you look like you’ve never acted before in your life,'" the Fatal Attraction star said.

Rather than balk or try to defend his performance, Douglas tried to broach the topic as calmly as he could, explaining he rarely watched the unedited footage collected at the end of the day of filming.

“So I said, ‘Well, I don’t like to look at the dailies because I’m one of those guys that always sees what’s wrong or what’s not going to be in the film'… so I don’t pay attention to the dailies," Douglas said. "So I said, ‘I guess I’d better take a look,’ and he said, ‘Yeah, you better.' "

Together, the two went down to the editing room, where Douglas reviewed two scenes with what he believed was as objective an outlook at possible.

“And I’m looking at them really hard, and critically, and they seemed pretty good. So I keep saying, ‘I think it’s pretty good,’ and [Stone said], 'Yeah, it is, isn’t it,'" the actor explained.

Despite this harsh appraisal of his work, Douglas credited Stone with helping push him further in his performance, outfitting him with a necessary edge that ultimately netted the actor the prestigious Oscar for Best Actor.

“He was willing for me to hate his guts for the rest of this movie to get that extra little push,” Douglas reflected.

For a band that has spent more than four decades shaking arenas and shaping the sound of modern heavy metal, there are still firsts left to conquer. Now, Pantera is preparing to check off a major milestone — one that fans in an entirely new corner of the world have been waiting years to see.

The legendary groove metal outfit has officially announced via social media its first-ever performance in the Republic of Turkey, with a show slated for July 12, 2026, in Istanbul. The historic concert marks another global expansion for a band whose music has long transcended borders, languages and generations of metal listeners.

We are coming to Istanbul! This will be our first time playing in Turkey.

July 12, 2026 - Istanbul, Turkey @ Atakoy Marina Arena

General On-sale: Thursday, Feb 12, 11:00am Istanbul time. Link to purchase tickets will be live on https://t.co/tVWNiA5MFe pic.twitter.com/rVVvaeExAR

— Pantera (@Pantera) February 10, 2026

"We are coming to Istanbul! This will be our first time playing in Turkey," the band wrote in a post on X.

Tickets go on sale Feb. 12 at 11 a.m. Istanbul time on the band's official website.

The Istanbul show is the latest in a wide-ranging European tour that will see Pantera play in Germany, Hungary, Ireland, the U.K. and Greece between May and July 2026.

Formed in Arlington, Texas, in 1981, Pantera evolved from glam-metal roots into one of the most influential heavy metal bands of the modern era. Their breakthrough arrived with 1990's Cowboys from Hell, a record widely credited with helping usher in the groove metal movement.

Following a breakup in the early 2000s and the deaths of founding guitarist "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott and drummer Vinnie Paul, many fans believed Pantera’s story had reached its final chapter.

But in the early 2020s, surviving members Phil Anselmo and Rex Brown reunited under the Pantera banner alongside guitarist Zakk Wylde and drummer Charlie Benante, bringing the band’s catalog back to arenas and major festivals around the world. They played their first major shows in over 20 years with appearances in Latin America in 2022, and later undertook their first major tour in 22 years with a full-scale tour of Europe in 2023.

The new Dietary Guidelines for Americans were released last month, and while there were some noteworthy changes, something that stayed the same was the recommendation for consuming three servings of dairy a day. And yes, that can include cheese.

“Cheese is a source of calcium, potassium and bioactive peptides, which are especially prevalent in fermented dairy,” says Abbey Sharp, RD, a registered dietitian and author of The Hunger Crushing Combo Method. This is especially noteworthy considering that 42% of Americans don’t consume enough calcium, a nutrient that’s crucial for bone health.

But not all cheese is considered equal—and some types can negatively impact your cardiovascular health, including your blood pressure. If you are doing your best to support your blood pressure through diet, you may be wondering whether incorporating cheese into your meals supports your heart health or works against it. Sure, you know foods like bacon, sausage and deli meat aren’t great for blood pressure, but what about cheese?

To find out, we talked to two cardiologists and two registered dietitians about how eating cheese impacts blood pressure, both immediately afterwards and long-term when eaten regularly. Here’s what they want you to know.

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How Eating Cheese Impacts Blood Pressure

For the most part, eating cheese doesn’t have an immediate impact on blood pressure, says Jess Rybka, RD, a registered dietitian with Sarah Wragge Wellness. Dr. Joy Gelbman, MD, a cardiologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, explains that most cheeses don’t impact blood pressure long-term either. 

“There is limited data about the acute effects of cheese consumption on blood pressure. As far as daily cheese consumption, one randomized controlled trial found that daily consumption of regular-fat cheddar cheese for six weeks had no effect on daytime blood pressure compared to a dairy-free control diet. In addition,  multiple studies have shown no difference in blood pressure effects between low-fat and full-fat dairy cheese,” she says.

Related: 'I'm a Cardiologist—Here's How To Know When You Should Go on Blood Pressure Medication'

But there’s one major exception to this, according to all four experts: ultra-processed cheese. Dr. Gelbman explains that this is because ultra-processed cheese is often high in sodium, and eating foods high in sodium definitely can impact blood pressure, both immediately and long-term, when eaten regularly.

“Cheeses with a high sodium content can increase your blood pressure. By consuming higher amounts of sodium, the body pulls water into the vessels to dilute it, increasing overall blood volume and blood pressure,” explains Dr. Randy Gould, DO, a cardiologist with Manhattan Cardiologist and a contributor to LabFinder. 

Besides the sodium in ultra-processed cheeses, Dr. Gould says it’s also important to be mindful of how much fat is in the cheeses you’re eating. Scientific research shows that a diet high in saturated fat can increase blood pressure.

Related: The One Habit That Can Lower Blood Pressure Overnight, According to a Cardiologist

Heart Health Tips for Cheese Lovers

You don’t have to avoid cheese if you want to support your blood pressure, but the cardiologists and registered dietitians do offer up some guidance if you eat cheese regularly. Dr. Gould recommends sticking with cheeses low in sodium, such as Swiss, fresh mozzarella and ricotta. He says that feta, Parmesan, blue cheese and ultra-processed cheeses tend to be higher in sodium, so those are the ones to eat less often. 

“If you eat cheese every day, you need to be aware of the high amount of sodium you are ingesting and then balance that with your other food choices throughout the day,” Dr. Gould notes. 

Related: Is Cheese Healthy? Find Out if It's Really Gouda for You

As he previously explained, it’s also important to be mindful of how much saturated fat is in the cheese you’re consuming. “If someone has high cholesterol, they might be better off eating a low-fat cheese, such as part-skim mozzarella, ricotta or cottage cheese, which have less saturated fats, are less likely to raise LDL levels and are heart-healthy,” Dr. Gould says.

Instead of making cheese a core part of your meals (like in mac-and-cheese, for example), Sharp recommends treating cheese as a flavor accent. “Grate cheese very finely, and use more pungent and flavorful varieties, so a little can go a long way,” she shares. 

If you’re making pizza, for example, she recommends halving the portion of cheese you’d regularly use, loading the pizza up with protein-rich grilled chicken and potassium-rich veggies while serving it alongside a salad. “This way, you amp up the satiety factor and you edge out the need to eat the entire pie because you’ve got loads of volume and fiber-rich veggies, and you avoid the scarcity mentality that always triggers a binge,” she says.

Especially if the cheese you’re eating has sodium, Sharp recommends pairing it with potassium-rich foods (like veggies or beans) to blunt the impact on blood pressure.

If you’re a cheese lover and also want to support your blood pressure through what you eat, the key is choosing cheeses that aren’t ultra-processed, high in sodium or high in saturated fat. Think of it as a delicious addition to your meal instead of the main event. With these guidelines in place, you can keep on enjoying cheese without it negatively impacting your heart.

Up Next:

Related: This Is the Best Cheese for Blood Sugar Balance, According to Diabetes Doctors

Sources

• Dietary Guidelines for Americans. United States Department of Agriculture
• Abbey Sharp, RD, registered dietitian and author of The Hunger Crushing Combo Method
• Yu, Z., Li, Y., Ba, D., M., et al. (2024). Trends in Calcium Intake among the US population: Results from the NHANES (1999-2018). Nutrients. 16(5):726
• Jess Rybka, RD, registered dietitian with Sarah Wragge Wellness
• Dr. Joy Gelbman, MD, cardiologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine
• Rancourt-Bouchard, M., Gigleux, I., Guay, V., et al. (2020). Effects of regular-fat and low-fat dairy consumption on daytime ambulatory blood pressure and other cardiometabolic risk factors: a randomized controlled feeding trial. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 111(1):42-51
• Dr. Randy Gould, DO, cardiologist with Manhattan Cardiologist and a contributor to LabFinder
• Zang, T., Hassan, W., Javaid, F., et al. (2025). Impact of fatty diets on blood pressure: A systematic review and meta-analysis.Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 34(4):542-550

On January 29, 2025, Maxim Naumov's life was forever changed when the Olympic figure skater lost both of his parents—Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov—in a plane crash that claimed the lives of 67 people. The couple—who competed in the Winter Olympics themselves—were returning home from the 2025 U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Wichita, Kansas, when their passenger plane collided with a military helicopter over the Potomac River.

But instead of shutting down in the wake of this unimaginable tragedy, Naumov was determined to honor his parents' legacy. Just 18 days shy of the one-year anniversary of the plane crash, he secured his Olympic debut in the 2026 Winter Games.

“I would not be sitting here without the unimaginable work, effort and love from my parents,” Naumov said in a press conference that day. “It means absolutely everything to me, fulfilling the dream that we collectively had as a family since I first was on the ice at five years old. So it means absolutely everything. And I know they’re looking down, smiling and proud.”

Here's everything to know about Maxim Naumov's harrowing journey—including his heart-wrenching Olympic performance moments ago (Feb. 10)—and why he's skating for three in Milan Cortina.

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Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov during a 1997 performance in Michigan

Photo by Todd Warshaw on Getty Images

Who Were Maxim Naumov’s Parents?

Maxim Naumov’s parents were Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov. Born in Russia, they were figure skating legends, placing fifth in the 1992 Olympics and coming in fourth at the 1994 Winter Games. But their most impressive feat was at the 1994 World Figure Skating Championships in Chiba, Japan. The couple won the gold medal in a breathtaking performance of "Die Fledermaus" that is still studied by skaters today.

They got married in 1995 and moved to the United States three years later, where the couple coached at the International Skating Center of Connecticut. On August 1, 2001, they welcomed a beautiful baby boy, Maxim, who would fall in love with skating at the age of five. Over the years, they didn't just raise their son; they coached him and mentored him, instilling values—including strength, passion and determination—that would stay with him forever, both on and off the ice. In 2017, the family moved to Massachusetts and became a beloved fixture at the Skating Club of Boston.

Related: The 2026 Winter Olympics Are Here—Dates, Events, and Who’s Competing for Team USA

Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov are pictured at center in this tribute from the Skating Club of Boston.

Photo by JOSEPH PREZIOSO on Getty Images

What Happened in the Plane Crash That Killed Maxim Naumov's Parents?

In January 2025, the Naumov family traveled to Wichita, Kansas for the U.S. Figure Skating Championships, where Maxim was competing. He placed third in the free skate and fourth overall before departing to train more, but Evgenia and Vadim stayed a few more days to coach at the U.S. Figure Skating’s National Development Camp. 

On Jan. 29, 2025, Maxim’s parents were on a flight from Wichita to Washington, D.C., aboard American Eagle Flight 5342. Just minutes before landing, the plane collided with a military helicopter over the Potomac River. All 67 people on board both aircraft were killed.

But instead of quitting the sport entirely, Maxim pushed even harder—feeling his parents' presence every step of the way. "Whenever I make a decision, it seems like I'm talking with them and discussing what the right path is," he said in a press conference. "I feel their presence in my decision-making and my overall mentality for how I approach things. I always feel like they have my back. That's something I feel in my heart; I feel it in my body, in my brain, everywhere, you know. Even still, now, they're helping and guiding me to where we need to go."

Related: Figure Skater Makes U.S. Olympic Team 1 Year D.C. Plane Crash Kills Parents

Naumov competes in the 2026 United States Figure Skating Championships, securing his Olympic debut in Milan Cortina.

Photo by Matthew Stockman on Getty Images

When Does Maxim Naumov Skate?

Over the past year, Naumov has displayed the determination and resilience instilled by his parents. He told Olympics.com, "I find that in times of really difficult emotional stress, if you can just push yourself a little bit more, almost think, 'What if? What if I can do it? What if—despite everything that happened to me—I can still go out there and do it?'"

And today, he absolutely did it, delivering a heart-wrenching solo performance in the Men's Short Program. Before he even struck his starting pose, the arena’s Jumbotron flashed a simple, powerful message: “Mom and Dad, this is for you.”

Naumov skated to Frédéric Chopin's "Nocturne No. 20" and earned a score of 85.65 to qualify for the final. The most emotional moment came once the music stopped: As Maxim sat and waited for the judges to announce his scores, he held up a photo of himself as a toddler, on the ice with his mother and father:

After his stunning performance, Maxim held up this photo in honor of his late parents.

Photo by WANG ZHAO on Getty Images

Through tears, he kissed the photo as his qualifying score appeared, securing his place in the Olympic final. Set your alarms and calendars: Naumov is set to compete in the Men's Free Skate finals on Friday, Feb. 13 at 1 p.m. ET.

Up next: How to Watch the 2026 Winter Olympics Live—With or Without Cable

Move over, formal dining rooms—the sofa has officially claimed its crown as the new head of the table. According to a global study by IKEA, the way we eat is undergoing a transformation. In a survey of over 31,000 people across 31 countries, the Swedish furniture giant discovered that the traditional sit-down dinner is being swapped for screens, cushions, and a healthy dose of "comfortable chaos." While we still view food as a love language, the setting has moved from the mahogany table to the microfiber sectional.

The Couch is the New Cafeteria

If you’ve spent your evening balancing a bowl of pasta on your knees while catching up on your favorite show, you’re in the majority. In the UK, a staggering 48% of people now eat dinner on the sofa, making Brits three times more likely than the global average to ditch the dining table entirely.

But it isn't just the living room seeing all the action. The "bed-dine" is becoming a staple for younger generations. Globally, 4% of people eat in bed, a figure that nearly doubles among Gen Z. In the U.S. and Hungary, the urge to nest while you snack is even stronger, with 9% of residents opting for a bedroom banquet.

The 6:44 PM Dash: Dinner in Under 30 Minutes

The dinner bell rings at 6:44 PM on average globally, but don't expect a long, drawn-out affair. Most people are finished with their meal in just 27 minutes. The study also revealed a stark "speed gap" tied to economics: lower-income households are twice as likely to finish dinner in under 10 minutes compared to high-earners.

TOP 10 trends based on IKEA Cooking & Eating Survey (Photo: Ikea)

Ikea

As for what's on the menu? We are creatures of habit. One in five of us cycle through the same 10 dinner meals week after week, while 40% of us eat the exact same breakfast every single day.

Digital Distraction and the ‘Social Pressure Cooker’

The "no phones at the table" rule has officially left the building. Only 7% of households maintain a device-free zone during dinner. For everyone else, screens are the ultimate dinner guests. 40% of people watch TV while eating with family, and 15% keep the television on even when hosting guests.

However, sharing the kitchen isn't always a recipe for harmony. Only 28% of couples enjoy cooking together, and 7% admit that trying to prep a meal as a duo frequently leads to an argument. In India, that "too many cooks" tension more than doubles to 17%.

Sustainability vs. The Sweet Tooth

Despite the chaos, we’re becoming more conscious of our footprint. Europeans are leading the "waste not, want not" charge, with 55% of Germans admitting to eating food past its expiration date to avoid throwing it out.

Meanwhile, our flavor palettes remain deeply personal:

• The Spicy Side: Norwegians are the world's biggest heat-seekers, while Japan—the birthplace of wasabi—actually reports the lowest tolerance for spicy food.
• The Sweet Side: China claims the world’s biggest sweet tooth, with 64% of people favoring sugary flavors.
• The Picky Eaters: Japan takes the top spot for pickiness (21%), while China is the least picky (7%).

Lorena Lourido Gomez of IKEA notes that while our rituals are shifting, the heart of the meal remains the same. "Modern life is reshaping one of our most human rituals," she says. "Food remains one of the strongest love languages across cultures."

This week's episode of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy might be the best one yet. Our students find themselves literally between life and death and not everyone comes out alive. The episode is intense and exciting and keeps you on the edge of your seat. Anyone complaining that this show is not Star Trek might need to button up and sit down and take another look.

In Season 1, Episode 6, the cadets are on their first training mission — out in the depths of space in a ship's graveyard as their training ground. One of the ships in the graveyard — the Miyazaki is their assignment, but the students find themselves in mortal peril when things don't go as plan and a new enemy appears.

Here’s everything to know about Star Trek: Starfleet Academy Season 1, Episode 6, airing Thursday, Feb. 12 on Paramount+.

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What is Star Trek: Starfleet Academy about?

This new Paramount+ series follows a group of cadets who come together to pursue a common dream of hope and optimism. Under the watchful and demanding eyes of their instructors, they will discover what it takes to become Starfleet officers. But as they navigate blossoming friendships, explosive rivalries and first loves, the cadets must also face a new enemy that threatens both the Academy and the Federation itself.

What happened in last week's episode of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy? Kerrice Brooks as SAM. Photo Credit: John Medland/Paramount+

Paramount+

In last week's episode of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, we got to know SAM (Kerrice Brooks), the first-ever photonic student at Starfleet Academy. As SAM sets out to solve an ancient Starfleet mystery, she embarked on a journey of self-discovery and learned the value of forging her own path.

In trying to sign up for a class her makers insisted she take, SAM decides she needs to solve the mystery of what happened to Benjamin Sisko (Avery Brooks). She learns all about the Starfleet captain who commanded Deep Space Nine, his likes, re-creating his recipes for gumbo and beignets, even going to the same bars Sisko once frequented.

Cirroc Lofton as Jake Sisko. Photo Credit: John Medland/Paramount+

Paramount+

In learning about his son, Jake (Cirroc Lofton), the professor of the class, Illa (Tawny Newsome), decides to show her the book about Sisko that Jake was rumored to have written, Anslem - Bajoran for "Father".

Jake appears to SAM through the pages of the book to talk to her about his dad, how he saw him only as his dad, not as a prophet or an emissary. When she later returns the book, Professor Illa tells her to look up her class next semester under her full name - Illa Dax. Dax (originally played by Terry Farrell) was a Trill that had lived multiple lifetimes and was a mentor to Sisko.

L-R: Tawny Newsome as Illa Dax. Photo Credit: Paramount+

Paramount+

Meanwhile, Nahla (Holly Hunter) agreed to help Chancellor Kelric (Raoul Bhaneja) with an elaborate alien ritual and ropes in The Doctor (Robert Picardo) and Reno (Tig Notaro) to help. In the comic relief of the episode, the four adults took part in recitations, bad flute playing, and gassy fish.

Raoul Bhaneja as Chancellor Kelric. Photo Credit: Brooke Palmer/Paramount+

Paramount+

The episode ends with a voiceover tag from Benjamin Sisko and the credits start with an end card that reads, "Thank you, Avery." giving a nod to Avery Brooks, who played Benjamin Sisko on Deep Space Nine. Don't worry, folks. Avery Brooks is alive and well. He has retired from film and television acting and did the voice cameo as a favor. Brooks was previously a professor at Rutgers University's Mason Gross School of the Arts.

Related: Every ‘Star Trek’ Captain, Ranked

What happens in this week's episode of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy? Holly Hunter as Captain Nahla Ake. Credit: John Medland/Paramount+

In "Come, Let's Away," this week's all new episode of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, our cadets join their counterparts from the War College on their first training mission, but soon find themselves in mortal danger as they encounter a savage new enemy. All the cadets must work together to fight for survival while Nahla seeks help from an unexpected source.

When does the next episode of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy drop?

Season 1, Episode 6 of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy—titled "Come, Let's Away"—premieres on Thursday, Feb. 12 on Paramount+.

How to watch Star Trek: Starfleet Academy

Starfleet Academy streams exclusively on Paramount+.

What time do new episodes of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy come out?

New episodes of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy drop Thursdays on Paramount+. Episodes typically become available on the streamer at 12:00 a.m. PT/3 a.m. ET on Thursday mornings.

Related: Holly Hunter Reveals the Unexpected Challenge of Her New ‘Star Trek’ Role

Does Parade have a sneak peek from the next episode of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy?

Check out this Parade exclusive sneak peek from the next episode of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy!

Check out images from the next episode of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy

Take a look at some select images from next episode of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy in the gallery below.

Star Trek: Starfleet AcademyEpisode 106 "Come, Let's Away" Holly Hunter as Captain Nahla Ake. Credit: John Medland/Paramount+ Holly Hunter as Captain Nahla Ake. Credit: Brooke Palmer/Paramount+ L-R: Bella Shepard as Genesis, Kerrice Brooks as SAM, Karim Diane as Jay-Den, and Romeo Carere as Ocam. Credit: John Medland/Paramount+ Holly Hunter as Captain Nahla Ake. Credit: John Medland/Paramount+ L-R: Bella Shepard as Genesis and Kerrice Brooks as SAM. Credit: John Medland/Paramount+ Holly Hunter as Captain Nahla Ake. Credit: John Medland/Paramount+ Raoul Bhaneja as Commander Kelric. Credit: John Medland/Paramount+ Zoe Steiner as Tarima. Credit: John Medland/Paramount+ L-R: George Hawkins as Darem, Karim Diane as Jay-Den, Kerrice Brooks as SAM, and Bella Shepard as Genesis. Credit: John Medland/Paramount+ L-R: Gina Yashere as Lura and Holly Hunter as Captain Nahla Ake. Credit: John Medland/Paramount+

Heated Rivalry, the Canadian queer hockey romance that dropped on HBO Max in November 2025—just in time to end the year with a bang—made overnight sensations out of its young stars. But for Hudson Williams, who plays closeted athlete Shane Hollander, sudden fame wasn’t meant to grant an all-access pass into his personal life. 

“I think there’s never a question for me, when I would dream of becoming in the public eye, that I would want just a level of privacy,” he told Deadline in December 2025. 

That boundary didn’t last long. Within weeks of the interview, celebrity gossip account DeuxMoi identified Williams’ rumored girlfriend by name—and by January 31, the actor appeared to hard-launch her on Instagram himself (well, sort of). 

So, who is Williams’ alleged girlfriend, and does this mean he isn’t gay in real life? Keep reading for a respectful, no-doxxing guide to the heartthrob’s relationship status.

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Does Hudson Williams have a girlfriend?

Technically, Williams hasn’t publicly confirmed that he’s dating anyone. When questions about his love life or sexuality pop up, he reliably circles back to the idea of privacy.

That said, fans are convinced the Canadian actor offered a quiet hint when he shared a carousel that included a meltdown-inducing clip of his Heated Rivalry co-star Connor Storrie (who plays Ilya Rozanov) eating ice cream with an unnamed woman. Almost immediately, the comments section lit up. “HIS GIRLFRIEND AND HIS BOYFRIEND??? DAMN IS THIS THE GREED THEY TALK ABOUT IN THE BIBLE,” one commenter joked. “Girlfriend and work husband eating together in a video is a crazy flex,” another commented.

Williams didn’t explain the post or shut anything down—but he did stir the pot by liking one especially blunt comment that read, “HIS GF AND BF.” A hard launch? Not exactly. But from Williams, it might be the closest thing the desperate masses are going to get to a confirmation.

View this post on Instagram Who is Hudson Williams’ girlfriend?

Williams hasn’t officially confirmed who he’s dating, but rumor has it she’s a Vancouver-based tattoo artist—the same one who inked matching “Sex Sells” tattoos on him and Storrie. The mystery woman’s name came up on an episode of Deuxmoi’s Deux U podcast, and the clip quickly sparked backlash, with critics accusing the hosts of doxxing her. 

Williams himself weighed in, writing in the comments, “You know what, I’ve grown quite unfond of you deuxmoi.” 

While Williams hasn’t confirmed his supposed partner's identity, fans have noticed a clue: her name apparently starts with a “K,” which happens to be tattooed on Hudson’s wrist.

Related: ‘Heated Rivalry’ Author Rachel Reid Defends the Show’s ‘Biggest’ Change From the Book

Is Hudson Williams gay?

Williams hasn’t commented on his real-life sexuality, so it’s unclear whether he identifies as straight, bisexual, queer or otherwise (and one can argue that it’s none of your business!).

In an early interview with Williams and Storrie, writer-director-producer Jacob Tierney interjected when his leading men were asked about their personal lives.

“I don’t think there’s any reason to get into that stuff,” he said in an interview with Xtra. “I’ll tell you something about the casting of both of these roles. You can’t ask questions like that when you’re casting, right? It’s actually against the law. So what you have to gauge is somebody’s enthusiasm and willingness to do the work. And that’s what’s so impressive about both of these guys is they came into this being like, ‘Yeah, we’re here to do this, and we are here to make this story feel authentic and to be as real as possible.’ And they f—king hit it out of the park.”

Is Hudson Williams single?

From what Williams himself has actually said and what’s been reported, there’s no verified partner in the picture. But his most recent post on Instagram includes a woman who is widely believed to be his long-term girlfriend, a tattoo artist from Vancouver who reportedly attended the Heated Rivalry premiere with him in Canada.

Related: Hudson Williams Shares That Closeted Pro Athletes Reached Out Following ‘Heated Rivalry’ Success

Are Hudson Williams and Conner Storrie dating IRL?

This one gets asked all the time by fans, and the answer from the actors themselves is pretty clear: No, they’re not a couple. They’re just very close friends.

“Hudson is my best friend, and I literally can’t fathom doing this without him,” Storrie told W magazine. “We were both in similar places in life before this. We quit our jobs within a day of each other. We booked this and flew out the same day. Now it’s turning into two people who are being seen internationally for the first time. This has been the highlight of my life, and meeting Hudson makes that 10 times sweeter.”

Hudson has echoed the sentiment. “I have one of my best friends for life right beside me through it all, which is already a luxury that a lot of actors don’t get,” he told The Hollywood Reporter. “I’m sure I would’ve probably had a smaller appetite for the amount of stuff we’re doing if I didn’t have him through this.”

Next: ‘Heated Rivalry’ Official Merch May Be Sold Out, but These Etsy Styles Are in Stock (and Selling Fast)

Before becoming global rock stars and touring the world, many bands got their start in ordinary garages. Now, a recent study reveals that one indie rock band still dominates Spotify's charts with their unique sound, and it's none other than Arctic Monkeys.

Alan's Factory Outlet did the job of collecting Spotify streaming data to uncover which garage-born bands have stood the test of time. Based on research, 72% of people who have started bands in their garage said it lasted less than a year, with only a handful of bands managing to make it to the big leagues.

Their streaming data reveal that Arctic Monkeys remain the top-streamed rock band to come out of a garage. They took the No. 1 spot, earning over 53 million streams on Spotify as artists "born from garage roots." Runner-up was the Australian band Tame Impala, with over 47 million streams, and rock legends Green Day in third with over 36 million streams.

Based on the data, Arctic Monkeys have even beaten out the iconic band Nirvana and metal legends Metallica. The study did show that Nirvana and Green Day were among the top three bands that inspired young teens to form a garage band.

Related: 1997 Foo Fighters Record Ranked Among the Best Rock Albums of All Time

Arctic Monkeys was originally started in Sheffield, England, in 2002 with lead singer and guitarist Alex Turner. As friends and neighbors, Turner was joined by drummer Matt Helders, guitarist Jamie Cook, and bassist Andy Nicholson. They started the band after receiving instruments for Christmas, and performed their first gig in 2003 at a pub. Nicholson was later replaced by Nick O'Malley in 2006.

They released their debut album, Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not, in 2006 and topp UK charts and won Best British Album at the 2007 Brit Awards. Their second album, Favourite Worst Nightmare, was also a hit and won them their second Best British Album award. Two more albums were released in 2009 and 2011, which did moderately well.

Arctic Monkeys gained international fame with the release of AM in 2013. Their song "Do I Wanna Know" became a band-defining moment for the band, topping Billboard charts and being certified Platinum four times. The song's opening guitar riff became a sensation among fans and won them their third Brit award.

The rock band has released seven studio albums and has been nominated for nine Grammy awards over the span of their career.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of Jimmy Eat World's breakthrough album, Bleed American. The alt-rock quartet will celebrate by hitting the road this summer, touring North America and the U.K. to play Bleed American in its entirety.

Helping Jimmy Eat World celebrate will be a list of A+ acts: Sunny Day Real Estate, Rise Against, the Get Up Kids, Thrice, Girls Against Boys, Hey Mercedes, Motion City Soundtrack, Illuminati Hotties, Mom Jeans, Jay Som and Pup. The tour includes four stops on the Vans Warped Tour, three in the U.K. (including a sold-out show in Cardiff, Wales, the band's largest U.K. concert to date), and one in Mexico City.

Updates, ticket info, and additional information are available at jimmyeatworld.com.

Photo by Marc Steifel on Getty Images

"It changed our lives," frontman Jim Adkins, who co-founded the band in 1993, told Billboardwhen sharing the news of the tour. "It put us on a map. It gave us a new, broad audience of people that found something in it that they connected with."

"People have grown up with this record, right alongside us growing up, and I feel like it's important to celebrate it," he added. "It's important to acknowledge to people that we appreciate that, despite the obvious commerce involved."

At the start of 2001,  Jimmy Eat World was at a crossroads. Capitol Records had just dropped them due to the lack of commercial successof their prior LP, Clarity, forcing Adkins and his bandmates (guitarist Tom Linton, drummer Zach Lind, and bassist Rick Burch) to take day jobs to support their music career, including their next album.

Jimmy Eat World funded the making of Bleed American themselves and signed with Dreamworks to release it in July 2001. The title track reached No. 18 on Billboard's Alternative Airplay chart, but the next single, "The Middle," would change the band's life forever. It reached No. 5 on the Hot 100, topped the Alternative Airplay Chart, and helped make Bleed American a success.

The third single, "Sweetness," would continue that momentum, reaching No 2 on the Alternative Airplay chart.

However, after the 9/11 attacks in New York and Washington, D.C., further pressings of the album were renamed simply to Jimmy Eat World (and the title track was renamed "Salt Sweat Sugar"). This was done out of respect for those affected by the terrorist attacks ("In 2008, the album reverted to its original title.

Jimmy Eat World's Bleed American 25th Anniversary Tour Dates

June 9: Denver, CO –– Red Rocks Amphitheatre
June 11: Chicago, IL –– Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island
June 12: Sterling Heights, MI –– Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre at Freedom Hil
June 13-14: Washington, D.C. –– Vans Warped Tour
June 16: Brooklyn, NY –– Brooklyn Paramount
June 17: New York, NY –– The Rooftop at Pier 17
June 19: Philadelphia, PA –– Highmark Skyline Stage at Mann
June 20: Boston, MA –– MGM Music Hall at Fenway
July 3: Calgary, AB –– Spruce Meadows
July 4: Fort McMurray, AB –– Hello Summer Festival
July 17: Bend, OR –– Hayden Homes Amphitheater
July 18: Seattle WA –– WAMU Theater @ Lumen Field
July 19: Vancouver, BC –– Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre
July 22: Sandy, UT –– Sandy Amphitheater
July 24: Concord, CA –– Toyota Pavilion at Concord
July 25-26: Long Beach, CA –– Vans Warped Tour
August 14: Halifax, U.K. –– The Piece Hall
August 15: Cardiff, UK –– Cardiff Castle
August 16: London, UK –– Gunnersbury Park
August 22: Montreal, QC –– Vans Warped Tour
August 23: Toronto, ON –– RBC Amphitheatre
September 6: Phoenix, AZ –– Chase Field (supporting My Chemical Romance)
September 9: Austin, TX –– Moody Amphitheater
September 10: Dallas, TX –– The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory
September 12-13: Mexico City, MX –– Vans Warped Tour
November 12: Nashville, TN –– Venue info TBA
November 14: Tampa, FL –– MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre
November 14-15: Orlando, FL –– Vans Warped Tour

Related: '80s New Wave Group Shares Tour Update With First Special Performance in 40 Years

A new Butterfinger flavor is officially here—and no, this isn't about the Marshmallow or Salted Caramel flavors fans saw start popping up a couple months ago, but the highly anticipated French Toast flavor.

The newly released candy bar was first teased last spring, and at the time, the company kept many details under tight wraps, sharing only that it would be available in early 2026.

Well, it's officially early 2026, and Parade can confirm the limited-edition flavor is finally on shelves at major retailers nationwide. We've also learned that Butterfinger is preparing for another, potentially even sweeter release scheduled for the end of the month.

Butterfinger French Toast Officially Arrives in Stores—Everything We Know About the New Candy, Including Its Flavor Profile and Ultra-Exclusive Spinoff

According to the official press release, the new Butterfinger bar takes its signature "crispety, crunchety texture and peanut-buttery center" and coats it in an "irresistible" French toast flavor. It delivers the "syrupy, cinnamony goodness of weekend brunch," just without the sticky fingers, per the brand.

Related: Crunch Bar’s Highly-Anticipated Flavor ‘Backed by Consumer Demand’ Is Finally Here

"French toast is a classic that hits across generations—mom made it, diners serve it at any hour, your friends beg for it at brunch, and it still feels like a treat every time," Yann Bastien, Butterfinger's vice president of marketing, shared in a statement. "We saw an opportunity to take that universal craving and transform it into something you can enjoy anywhere, anytime."

"Its comfort food meets candy innovation, and it tastes like the best breakfast memory you have," Bastien added.

Butterfinger French Toast is now available at major retailers nationwide through April (prices may vary), according to the Feb. 10 release.

Butterfinger French Toast flavor is now available for a limited time.

B

The French Toast Butterfinger bar isn't the only classic getting a reimagining this season. According to the release, the iconic candy company has partnered with Dominique Ansel, the James Beard Award-winning French pastry chef behind the legendary Cronut and the Dominique Ansel Bakery (189 Spring Street, SoHo), for a limited-edition release.

Beginning later this month, Ansel's Manhattan bakery will debut an exclusive Butterfinger French Toast Croquembouche. The new twist on the classic French dessert, which translates to "crunch in mouth," brings the textures and flavors of Butterfinger to an "elevated pastry experience" in three varieties available for one weekend only: starting Friday, Feb. 27, through Sunday, March 1.

• Peanut Butter Caramel—filled with peanut buttercinnamon ganache and Butterfinger crumbles, finished with a crisp caramel glaze
• Maple Cinnamon—filled with maple cinnamon ganache and glazed with creamy milk chocolate
• Butterfinger—filled with Butterfinger ganache, topped with caramel glaze and Butterfinger crumbles

"French Toast has always been one of my favorite brunch staples, so when I tasted the new French Toast flavor, it inspired me to create a different way of eating Butterfinger, one that transforms those classic flavors into something new," Ansel explained in a statement. "I thought a unique version of a French croquembouche - something that also has those familiar crispy crunchy caramelized textures - would be perfect."

Those looking to try Ansel's high-end pastry version of the French Toast Butterfinger will need to stop by the Spring Street bakery during the last weekend of the month (Friday, Feb. 27, through Sunday, March 1). Available while supplies last.

Next:Nutella to Get First New ‘Taste Innovation’ in Over 60 Years

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Easy, comfortable style is in for 2026, according to experts, and Walmart is one of our favorite places to shop for versatile, affordable picks. Classic everyday staples like your favorite long-sleeve top, a hoodie you never leave home without, and comfortable shoes you can wear with everything are pieces that will never go out of style. Right now, Walmart has a pair of supportive sneakers on sale for less than $10.

Normally priced at a reasonable $20, the No Boundaries Classic Lace Up Sneakers are now even more affordable with a 55% discount that drops the price to just $9 in three colors — and they're selling quickly. The red and oatmeal colors are currently available in whole and half sizes from 6 through 11, while the brown color has a bit less availability, with several sizes already sold out. Shoppers noted that these shoes fit true to size.

No Boundaries Classic Lace Up Sneakers, From $9 (was $20) at Walmart

If you want a pair of sneakers you can wear daily that will hold up through running errands, walking your dog, taking the kids to school, and getting all of your steps in, these are worth checking out. These low-top lace-ups have a clean, timeless design that works with jeans, leggings, shorts, skirts, and dresses — basically anything in your closet. Choose from the neutral color options or go with the bright red to add a pop of color to your outfits. 

These sneakers feature a flexible rubber sole that provides good traction, even in muddy or wet conditions, making them a great pick for transitioning your wardrobe from winter to spring. Built-in arch support, a cushioned memory foam insole, and sturdy canvas exterior are features that make these casual sneakers feel more elevated than their low price point suggests they would be.

No Boundaries Classic Lace Up Sneakers, From $9 (was $20) at Walmart

Courtesy of Wal

In my experience, proper support is paramount in a sneaker, particularly when you do a lot of walking or spend long days on your feet. Shoppers agreed that this shoe's memory foam insole delivers even more support than the comparable name-brand options that usually cost six times the price. "The memory foam in these sneakers is amazing," one shared. 

Related: Walmart's 'Dainty' $116 Heart Initial Necklace Is on Sale for $14, and It's a 'Classy' Valentine's Day Gift

Reviewers were quick to point out that these "very cute" shoes are "comfy sneakers you can dress up or down." Several noted that they own multiple pairs in different colors. One shopper even said they look similar to other, more expensive casual sneaker styles.

Shop More Deals

• Ecetana Casual Canvas Sneakers, $17 (was $26) at Walmart
• Aomais Canvas Fashion Sneakers, $19 (was $30) at Walmart
• Skechers Go Walk Joy Aurora Slip-On Sneaker, $40 (was $66) at Walmart

Don't miss your chance to snag the No Boundaries Classic Lace Up Sneakers for as low as $9 while they're on sale at Walmart. The brown color is already sold out in several sizes, so be sure to hurry to get yours while you still can!

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