Parade
Maison Perrier’s New Release Hops on Popular Health Trend
Maison Perrier just dropped a "bold" new bubbly beverage, and it's unlike any other product it offers.
The popular sparkling water brand sees just how popular prebiotic soft drinks have become, so like Trader Joe's, PepsiCo and even Ben Stiller, it's getting in on the action and releasing its first-ever prebiotic sparkling beverage made without an overwhelming amount of added sugar.
Joining the lineup of gut health-focused beverages available nationwide is the all-new French Kiss by Maison Perrier.
French Kiss by Maison Perrier: What to Know About the New Prebiotic Sparkling Juice BeverageThe better-for-you line of sparkling beverages promises "irresistibly bold" flavor, making it Maison Perrier's first-ever release of a sweetened sparkling water with prebiotics. While other brands have offered similar products (such as Wildwonder, tru and GoodBelly), Maison Perrier's recipe contains significantly less added sugar than the competition.
Related: Sanpellegrino Drops ‘Bright’ New Sparkling Water Flavor
According to an official description shared in an email with Parade, the new recipe blends "the signature grand bubbles of Maison Perrier" with real fruit juice, natural flavors, and prebiotics to promote gut health. In other words, this isn’t your run-of-the-mill sparkling water, "it's sexy French water" that's crafted with 10 percent real fruit juice, six grams of fiber from soluble corn fiber (which is double that found in Pepsi's new prebiotic soda), and less than one gram of added sugar per can. That said, it contains a small amount of sucralose, so if you're one to avoid artificial sweeteners, this one may not be for you.
French Kiss by Maison Perrier is debuting in four "delectable" flavors that the brand is sure consumers will "fall hard" for: Blackberry & Lemon, Peach & Cherry, Mango & Coconut, Raspberry & Lime.
French Kiss by Maison Perrier debuts in four flavors (L-R): Raspberry & Lime, Peach & Cherry, Blackberry & Lemon, Mango & Coconut.Maison Perrier
- Blackberry & Lemon: A sweet-tart combo that the company describes as a "zesty duo with the berry best vibes."
- Peach & Cherry: Two stone fruits blended up to make a sip as "juicy as a summer fling."
- Mango & Coconut: Sweet and subtle nutty flavors that "flirt with tropical beach bliss in every sip."
- Raspberry & Lime: A classic tart and sweet flavor profile, the "power couple you’ll want to toast with every day."
According to a spokesperson, a six-pack of the flavors will retail for approximately $8.49 (which breaks down to about $1.42 per can), and there does not appear to be a variety pack of flavors available at this time (though that could always change).
Maison Perrier's new French Kiss line is not exclusive to any one family of stores, either, so fans should be able to find them at local grocery retailers or wherever they purchase other favorites from the brand, like its Forever Sparkling Water, juice-infused sparkling bevs, Chic range (sparkling water with herbal flavors), or its Energize subline (made with B-vitamins and caffeine). The new line is also available to purchase in bulk via Amazon (24-count for $29.98, or $1.25 each).
Next: Reimagined Soda Brand From the '80s Debuts New Flavor Inspired by a Sweet Summer Staple
‘RizGod’ Returns: Rizo Velovic Back on 'Survivor 50' Just Days After Season 49 (Exclusive)
In our very first conversation, Rizo Velovic called his shot. He built a persona for himself as "the man, the myth, the legend, R-I-Z-G-O-D, RizGod, baby," but kept it entirely self-contained in his confessionals until he was getting his torch snuffed. Unfortunately, he did not have the luxury of repeating this tactic. Given the fact that Survivor 49 had not aired before Survivor 50 filmed, the only perception the other returnees got of Rizo was the 49 trailer — where he reveals his entire extended moniker.
Despite having that swagger outed, the 26-year-old has not lost a step when I talk with him a month later for Season 50. If anything, he has reverence for playing alongside the people he grew up watching, as well as confidence he could beat them and cement his legacy as one of the best to ever do it. Ironically, his prevailing strategy is ego management, and his lack of new era connections has him looking to buddy up to more of the old-schoolers. And so, while he started his Survivor career as the "RizGod," he may segue into a brand-new title by the end of Season 50: "The Prodigy."
Read on for my interview with Rizo, and check in with Parade daily for interviews with this season's contestants and other tidbits. Survivor 50 premieres on Feb. 25 with a three-hour episode on CBS.
[Author's note: As Survivor 49 had not aired during the filming of Survivor 50, the press was told to not ask Rizo and Savannah any specifics about their original season. If you'd like to check out them getting into specifics about their Season 49 games, be sure to read our post-finale interviews from the end of 2025!]
We're back, baby!
We're back! Like I never left.
We've officially entered the church again of "the man, the myth, the legend, R-I-Z-G-O-D, RizGod, baby!"
We have. I'm super pumped. I mean, I'm sure you're gonna ask; we'll talk about it. But literally, maybe it's 12 days ago now that I was literally just here playing Season 49. And 12 days later, here I am talking to you about Season 50. So you know it's been done before: Russell, Malcolm Rupert. But the fact that now I am in one of that illustrious company is pretty f—king unreal.
Let's talk about that quick turnaround. What's your headspace right now? Is it a matter of keeping your heart rate up, like a light jog? Or did you have to take time to decompress and reset before your second season?
I think I'm one of the more sadistic people in terms of my love for Survivor. After 49 finished, I was like, "Dude, I can do this thing again. This was the best thing I've ever done in my life. Like, I'll literally do it again." And to put it into perspective, hours before I board my flight back home from Fiji, production pulls me to the side. And I walk into a room, and Jeff Probst is on a Zoom call. I'm like, "Oh my god, Jeff does this with everybody. This is great." I'm like, "Jeff, what's up, man!" We're best friends at this point. And then he does his whole spiel. I even forget what he said. But long story short, he basically said, "How do you feel about coming back for 50?"
So I knew I was gonna be on 50 before I even talked to my family. So I went home and my parents, my girlfriend, everybody's waiting for me. They start crying, "Oh my god, Rizzo, blah, blah, blah." And I'm like, "Damn it, I'm gonna start crying now!" And I was like, "Guys, you've got to stop crying. Because in nine days, I'm gonna be back in Fiji playing Survivor 50."
And the turnaround, honestly, the whole time, has just been reflecting and like, "I just did that." Three months ago, the premiere of 48, when it's all "this is what you're gonna vote for, for Survivor 50," I didn't even know I was playing Survivor 49. So I'm literally voting for what legends I want to see play 50, and how I want the game to be. Only later to find out that I'm not only playing Survivor 49, but I'm now playing Survivor 50 with all these people I idolized growing up watching. I basically voted for the game I'm playing now.
So, to go back to your question, I don't feel mentally or emotionally taxed at all. The only thing I'd say is physically, I was already a skinny guy. So the weight that I lost, I didn't gain back. But it'll come back eventually. You don't get to play Survivor twice, let alone Survivor 50. So I couldn't care less.
Let's talk about your perception right now. When we talked before 49 started, you had spoken about the "RizGod" persona, and how you wanted to keep that in the confessionals. Unfortunately, you and the "RizGod" moniker are highlighted in the trailer for 49, which this cast saw just before coming here. So how do you think people are viewing you, considering what they got of you in that 15-second clip?
So I'm actually super stoked that my preview to the whole world is literally my schtick. It's so great. But in terms of my perception, I'm maybe 10% worried, 90% I'm really not. Because at the end of the day, I'm playing with Coach, I'm playing with Q. I'm playing with literally insane people. And I'm playing with great strategists like Aubry, Cirie. I'm playing with comp beasts like Jonathan, Joe, Colby.
Everybody has a reason for being here. And if they think my reason for being here is I'm this young super fan that has a self-proclaimed nickname, I'd honestly rather that be my perception than if they had the opportunity to actually watch 49. Because I think if people watch 49 and I came back, I would have been in a lot more trouble than my little silly nickname, to be honest. And that's the most I'll go into it.
And the "RizGod" thing, I told you back in 49, it's kind of endearing. It's a confessional kind of thing. But once you get to talk to me and get to talk to Rizo, I don't really come across that way. And this is the oldest average age cast we've had in a long time. I mean, besides Charlie and Dee, I'm the youngest by a long shot. There's a lot of people in their late 40s, early 50s. I'm probably the same age as most of these people's kids. So that's kind of what I'm gonna play into. Like, "Listen, I'm a big superfan. I had this 'RizGod' thing, but let me explain why I call myself 'RizGod.'" That's kind of the direction I'm heading.
Are you going to tell the truth about what happened on 49 when asked? Or are there some things you're not going to disclose to everyone else?
So if I was by myself, I think I would have fabricated the truth. However, knowing that Savannah is here with me, I'm telling everything.
You didn't collude on a story going into this season?
Well, the thing is — I can't go more into detail, that's all I'll say. We didn't, no. Because the thing is, if I could say one thing, and if Savannah says another thing, both of us are screwed. And I think the better mantra is just to be honest and forthcoming. Because when I think of all the people who have done back-to-backs, historically, they've all done really well. Russell went back-to-back FTCs. Amanda went back-to-back FTCs. Rupert went to the Final Four. Everybody's done well.
I mean, I'm hopeful that nobody really cares. Because I look at people like Colby and Ozzy, and I bet my bottom dollar they haven't watched Survivor in the last few years. So I don't think they really care about me being on 49. But these new era people definitely care. Kyle won and then saw my face.
And, in my opinion, I might be wrong. But I think the new era players are a lot more intertwined than maybe the old-school players. I don't know when the last time Cirie and Colby had a heart-to-heart conversation. Obviously, they played Heroes vs. Villains. People have played other games with each other. But as a fan, looking at new era, they go to all these charity events, all these meet and greets. They go to all these watch parties. Just because Genevieve is the only one from 47 doesn't mean that she doesn't know Q or Tiffany or Charlie. So I think the new era players are going to be more threatened by me than the old school players, which is why I prefer to work with pre-new era personally. Because I think I can intermingle with them better.
Related: Meet the Full Cast of Survivor 50
Well, let's give you a chance to showcase that preseason philosophy. We're gonna play a game called "Friend or Foe." I'm going to give you a name of someone on the cast, and you have to tell me if they're someone you want to work with, or someone you see as an enemy or threat. Starting with Jenna.
Friend. What better way to have a story? Because, well, the first time Jenna Lewis played Survivor, I couldn't even walk yet. She's the first season; I'm the most recent season. And honestly, I like how Jenna played Al-Stars. She was loyal, and she did target all the winners. But with two winners being here, that means she's not going to target me first. And I feel like she's looking for a home. She's only played with Colby. If I'm forthright with, "Jenna, I want to work with you," I think we should go a long way.
How about Colby?
Friend. I think Colby isn't threatening to me at all. I think if Colby was 26, like in Australian Outback, I'd be like, "Holy s—t." But Colby is in his 50s now. If he plays this season like how he played Heroes vs. Villains, I'd rather him work with me and just be a number. And I think that's what I anticipate. Maybe I'm wrong. Maybe Colby comes out and is bats—t crazy. But I don't think so, so I'm gonna go with Friend for Colby.
Stephenie.
Friend as well. I am a big Stephenie fan. And I know she's played Snake in the Grass and Traitors with Cirie, and this is her fourth time. But I think she has a lot to prove in terms of Survivor. When she played Heroes vs. Villains, I think she was the second boot. And then Guatemala, she went from hero to villain. And I feel like she still has a lot to prove left in her Survivor journey. And why not let me help her?
You mentioned her before. Give me your thoughts on Cirie.
Oh my god, Twitter, don't hate me. But I'm gonna go with Foe. Because listen, as a fan, sure, I love Cirie. But as a player, it's a totally different ball game. Cirie's played Survivor six times now with Australia vs. the World. She's won The Traitors. She almost won Big Brother. I think she won Snake in the Grass. You name it, she's done well in everything. Okay, maybe [I'll work with her] for a vote or two. But she is not on my long-term plans.
I know you're a Big Brother fan as well. Are you gonna try to talk to her about her time in the house?
I'll ask. But I don't want to be a kiss-ass. Be like, "Oh my God, how was playing with your son on Big Brother?" I don't think so.
How about Ozzy?
I'll lean Foe. Because I just don't have any intention with working with Ozzy. Ozzy literally has played four times, and it's been the same game every single time. It's either he comps his way to the end, or he gets super arrogant and cocky, and he gets blindsided as one of the first few jurors. So I would go with Foe.
Coach.
100% Friend. And here's the reason why. If I get South Pacific Coach, Foe. But if I get the Coach that I fell in love with…If you remember, I talked about Survivor: Tocantins being my love. JT and the tooth is who I love. And I still remember as an eight-year-old kid watching the Final Five episode with Exile Island, which is doing the tai chi and literally breaking down mentally. And if you would have told eight-year-old Rizzo, 18 years later, he would be playing Survivor 50 with Coach, I would have thought it's a fever dream. Coach and RizGod speaking strategy is something I never thought would happen. But it's a very good possibility. If I can make that happen, I will make it happen. So Friend.
He could give you another nickname!
Oh my god, the Prodigy. I already know. I've already had it planned. Mike, you don't understand. I've been thinking of this very moment my entire life. I don't want to even call me the "RizGod." You have the Warrior, the Wizard. Now I want to be the Prodigy. Because I want to be the next generation. I want to be the next JT for the next era of people. So I want to be the Prodigy by Coach.
How about Aubry?
I lean more Friend than Foe. I think Aubry is another one that has a lot to prove, because obviously, and we'll get to the next person that is going to come up. But the word "robbed" gets thrown around so much nowadays. And Aubry played a great game, but I don't think she was robbed. And then she comes back in Game Changers, has a pretty small edit, doesn't really show her Kaôh Rōng Aubry. And then she gets dog walked by new players on Edge of Extinction. So I think Aubry has a lot to prove. And as a strategist, and someone that feels like they have a good strategy for the game, I feel like we can align more than we'll be against each other.
You were just alluding to her. Give me your thoughts on Chrissy.
Chrissy is Friend. She is the number one person I want to work with in this cast. She is top of my list. Ryan is my mom's favorite player. And the reason why we love HHH is because I viewed Chrissy like my mom, and my mom viewed Ryan as me. It almost felt like, if we ever played Survivor, we'd play like that. So this is almost me paying homage to my mother and working with Chrissy.
But Chrissy, and there's a lot of people that agree with me. But I genuinely feel like she was robbed, probably the most robbed person ever. And I'll give a brief explanation. When you think of Charlie, when you think of Ozzy, when you think of all these other players that were runner-ups, they could have controlled who they sat with at the end. Chrissy literally couldn't control it. Ben had an idol at eight, seven, six, five. And then she gets told it's Final Four Firemaking in the last minute. How can you even control that? I think it was just the "Ben bombs" the jury was eating up.
I think Chrissy played a complete game that she should have won, which is why I want to work with her, because she has a lot to prove. But also, out of 24 people on this cast, 21 people have played with someone. Only three people haven't: Chrissy, Genevieve and Jonathan. And as someone that is an unknown — I mean, I'm gonna tell everyone how I did. But I want to be that known factor to Chrissy. I want her to feel like I'm her new Ryan, and I hope we can turn the tables.
I don't know Chrissy's relationships in terms of the alumni. The only thing I know is that her and Angelina are pretty close, because I saw a picture on Twitter before I got out here. But also, in terms of pregame, everybody is doing a lot better of a job than 49 in terms of not giving it away — for many reasons. But I will say Chrissy has shown that her and Angelina are really cool. Like, they'll giggle or whatever from time to time. So that's probably my only worry. But Chrissy is number one on my list.
So then talk to me about Angelina. Does that give you any pause on the possibility of working with her?
Honestly, all the David vs. Goliath people are all Foes for me, and I'm gonna tell you why. Angelina, if she was by herself, would be a Friend for me. But I think the tightest group of people from that season are literally all here. I mean, Mike White, Christian and Angelina, obviously, were all on White Lotus. I don't really care about White Lotus, but that's nothing to ignore. Angelina literally went to the end with Mike. And already, right off the bat, if she's close with Chrissy, if she's close with Mike White and Christian, I'm nowhere near the top of her list. So with 24 people, if I'm not at least in your top two, I don't need you. RizGod, next!
Same thing with Mike White. And already Mike White's gonna have his ass kissed because people want some 10 seconds of fame after this show. I'm not here to get on White Lotus. I'm here to submit my legacy as one of the greatest players of all time. So while I would love to vote with you for a vote or two, I couldn't care less. And then Christian I would want to be a Friend. If I meet up with him, and Angelina and Mike White are not here, that would be a Friend. But same premise as the other David vs. Goliath cast members. I'm not gonna be in the top of his list. So it's a Foe for me.
Rick.
I'm gonna have to go Foe. I think Rick Devens is just too much. I think Rick Devens is kind of cracked like me, in a sense. We're really out there, we're really energetic, we're a lot. But I don't know. I loved watching Rick Devens. I don't know if I'd like playing with Rick Devens. There's a reason he got voted out in the premerge. The Edge helped him come back, and he, like Ben, found idol, idol, idol, and then lost in the firemaking. So to me, that's a great shield, but I don't see myself aligning with Rick Devens.
Robert Voets/CBS
Let's get into the new era, the people you want to keep at arm's length. And we'll start with Jonathan, the man who has quite the arm length himself.
He's actually who I want to be first boot. Jonathan is a big Foe for me. I mean, I will say I am in awe for how massive he truly is. He's not represented on a laptop, dude. He's actually f—king ginormous. But the reason why is, reflecting back on 42, Jonathan never really was open to compromise. And in a season like this, for me, it's about ego management.
A lot of these people have Survivor God complexes, which is funny coming from me. But I could put RizGod to the side. I feel like a lot of these people can't put their egos to the side, which is why I'm kind of down on Rick Devens. And I'm down on Jonathan.
Because Jonathan walks around Ponderosa, he feels like s—t don't stink. And we actually had the opportunity to see the CBS Mornings cast reveal. And Jeff goes, "The biggest physical threat ever, Jonathan!" And I think Jonathan feels that. And for me, assuming that we're gonna drop like flies in the premerge — I don't know what's gonna happen, but I'm just assuming — I don't want Jonathan to be there. That's a reason people [could] keep him around, because they think it's about challenges. Realistically, we're all gonna go to Tribals. I'd rather him go home early.
How about Dee?
So she's a Friend. And I want to work with the winners, because they — God, do I want to air people out?
Of course you do!
I think the new era people probably pregamed a lot more than the pre-new era. I could be. But just from the little inklings that I've heard. And listen, I was only out of Survivor for nine days. I think Dee is very well-connected, even though she's a winner. Arguably, I think she's the best winner in a long time. I want to work with Dee, because Dee's very loyal. I know what I can get out of Dee. She either likes you or she doesn't. So I'm hoping I can be on her good side and we can work together. Now, do I want her to be my ride or die to the end? Absolutely not. But could I see making a deep run with Dee in this game? Absolutely.
Emily.
She's hard to read, honestly. Jeff put her story great: "From abrasive to embraced." And I think if I can get that embraced side of Emily Flippen. I would lean more Friend. But if I get that early 45 Emily Flippen, where she's calling people out on their bullshit, I don't want to work with that. So I'll lean Foe right now, because I do want to remain true to working with pre-new era. So I'll say Foe.
Charlie
So Charlie is one of the three new era people — well, I guess four, if I count Dee — that I actually really want to work very closely with. And I'll explain why. Charlie, very similar to Chrissy, I feel like has a lot to prove. I don't think Charlie was robbed like Chrissy. But I feel like Charlie is one of the more talked-about runner-ups in the last few years, where it's like "Charlie should have won," right? And I feel like Charlie has that feeling in the back of his head where it's like, "I should have won."
He probably has a lot to prove. And Charlie is the second youngest person behind myself. I think we have a lot of similarities in terms of the fandom and how we look at the game. So I want to work with people that want to play this game hard. Because you're not gonna be able to skate by with 26 days and 24 people. Like I said, we're gonna have to play right off the jump. And I want to play with people that want to play. And I get the vibe that that's what Charlie wants to do.
How about Q?
Alright, I'm going to answer this in two ways. As a fan of the show, he's a Friend. Because I'm literally salivating at the mouth to have a moment where Q, Coach and Riz God are all talking strategy. I need it to happen. But as the player on the island, Q is a Foe. I can deal with a lot of egos; I can ego-manage a lot of people. But I can't ego-manage revisionist history. And I think Q has that.
I think Q thinks, if he played his idol, he would have won Season 46. That's just the vibe that I get from preseason, postseason, Ponderosa here. He feels like he could have been one of the greatest players of all time. And I would love nothing more to go in that voting booth and say, "Q, this is not a big mistake. You can cancel Christmas this year. Because the man, the myth, the legend, R-I-Z-G-O-D, RizGod, baby" is voting your ass out of here!" I just think he was a little too much for me to handle. So he's gonna be a Foe for me.
Tiffany.
Tiffany's like Emily Flippen. I love Kenzie, and I actually know Kenzie loosely outside of Survivor. She actually reached out to me when I got revealed, like, "Oh my God, Rizo. You actually made it! Hell yeah!" She's the best, and I know her and Kenzie are really close. So I feel like, if I lean into that and be like, "Listen, I know Kenzie. Kenzie told me to work with you." I mean, that's bulls—t.
[Laughs.] She doesn't need to know that!
Exactly, I think we can work well together. But very similarly to why I don't want to work with the new era, I see Tiffany was with Kyle in pictures at the 48 finale. I see Tiffany is very well integrated in the new era survivor alumni. And I don't know if I'm on the top of her priority list. So if I can change that, it would be Friend. But as of right now, in the preseason, it's Foe.
Related: The 50 Best ‘Survivor’ Challenges Ever — According to the People Who Made Them (Exclusive)
How about Genevieve?
So like I mentioned with Chrissy and Charlie, Genevieve is a big, big Friend for me. And I think just looking at her game, and looking at the cast, it's people that have a second chance. It's people that trying to correct their mistakes. It's people that are trying to not tarnish their Survivor reputation. And then there's people that are trying to cement their legacy. I feel like I'm in the "cement their legacy" part. I think Genevieve is probably trying to correct some mistakes.
And I don't think Genevieve played a bad game at all. I think Genevieve is one of the better strategic minds of the new era. But I think her dealing with the emotional side of Survivor really tripped her up, and really maybe lost sight of the end for her. And looking at her endgame, she was very closely aligned with Sam. And I feel like I have a lot of similarities to Sam in terms of our age, our likes and not likes. I think I could get along with Genevieve very well. And she has not played with anybody. She needs somebody to play with. Why can't it be me? And I don't think I come across as this — this is so funny — egotistical person.
Let's just rewind and show that promo again.
Right! But I am a very down-to-earth person. And I think she is as well, and I think we can align in that fact.
Let's get into 48. Because when you played, you had only watched the first half of the season. So you really didn't get to see the dominant performance Joe put together in the endgame. What are your thoughts on him based on what you know, going into this season?
So, while Chrissy is the number one person I want to work with of the women, in terms of the men, it's Joe. Joe's number one on my list. And I think it's very simple. And I know Reddit, Twitter, everybody was like, "Joe's boring. He doesn't need to come back." Now I'm playing. Joe's literal entire story of 48 was, "This is not about me anymore. This is about me helping Eva win, or me helping Kyle win." Like, what the f—k?! Help me win! That's who I want.
Joe is the epitome of the best ally you can ask for. Someone that's honest, someone that's truthful, and someone that's predictable. That's exactly what Joe is. And Joe can win a lot of challenges, which is fine, that's a shield for me.
And honestly, game aside, on some real personal s—t, I love Joe. Because, like I told you, my brother is autistic. And going through the whole process, obviously, I didn't see 48. So my story was, "I want to inspire my brother." And autism was never spoken about on Survivor. And literally, I think the last episode before I came out here, or the second to last, Joe having that moment with Eva. To me, it was like, "Wow."
On a human level, we need more people like Joe in this world. And I'm dying at the fact that just literally thanking him personally. It's not like my brother would ever play Survivor. But if he did decide to play, knowing that there are people like Joe out there who will help somebody who probably needs that kind of help, it means the world to me. So personally, I want to work with Joe. But strategically, he just makes so much sense as an ally.
How about Kamilla?
Foe, 100%. I think Kamilla played a great game watching as a fan. But Kamilla's whole mantra was, "I will throw you under the bus. I will lie. I love lying. Lying is fun." And I agree; lying is fun! But lying is not fun when we're working in this game together.
And I didn't have that much opportunity to hear exit interviews. I tried a little bit, but I was so locked into 50. But I feel like maybe Kyle and Kamilla weren't as tight at the start as the show kind of led on. And to me, that just means, who was Kamilla truly loyal to? Kamilla was loyal to all, and if you're loyal to all, you're loyal to none. And to me, I don't want to play that game. And I don't want her, because a lot of her game was literally just making up lies, and people believed it. So that means that she's good at doing that, which is not something I want to align with.
Kyle.
Kyle is like Dee. But I prefer going farther in the game with Dee than I do Kyle. Only because I think recency bias is against Kyle. I think if Kyle and Dee were flopped in terms of [timeline], and I had time to reflect, I would feel what I feel with Dee with Kyle. But listen, Kyle's loyal. Kyle is not a disloyal person. He made strategic moves and did everything, but he was a man of his word to the people that he was loyal to. So that's enticing for me. And he's always gonna be a bigger threat than I am, and that's what I want to work with.
And listen, Kyle has two other people on his cast here, and he's tight with both of them. Dee and Emily Flippen, on their season, weren't tight. Dee literally idoled Emily out. But I know postseason 45 is like a cult. They all love each other. So 48, it's like Kyle, you have too many options! And very similar to how I feel about David vs. Goliath, I don't think I would be a top priority. We're both New York natives, so I feel like we can connect. So right now, I lean Friend. But in entirety, it would be a Foe.
Obviously, you can't get into any specifics on what happened on 49 right now. But what are your thoughts on your relationship with Savannah going into this season?
I will say this, I think I'm not shocked they picked both of us to be on 49. I don't know if I can give an answer to Friend or Foe, but I'll say this. If there was anybody on 49 to be picked, I'd prefer it to be her.
Which previous player do you wish were out here on the island with you right now?
I can literally give you 10 names. I'll give you four: Two men and two women. Every era has been represented in 50 besides 21 through 29. Obviously, Ozzy and Coach played in South Pacific. But to me, when I think of that era, I think of Malcolm. And the fact that he's not here is crazy to me. Because Jeff, production, the fans, the casual audience, online, all love Malcolm,. And I feel like Game Changers isn't a good way to end his story. And I thought, "What better way than a legends season?" Well, Survivor 50's not legends, but you know what I mean. This is his time to come back. And the fact that he's not here, and nobody from 21 to 29 is not here is shocking.
In terms of women, Jerri Manthey not being here sucks. Not only because Colby is here, butshe is literally the OG of Survivor icons. I mean, Jenna Lewis is great. I love Jenna Lewis and Borneo representation. But I feel like Jerri is the first most notable Survivor woman to ever play. So her not being here sucks.
In terms of the next man, I'm gonna say Sean Rector. But I feel like a lot of people say that, so I'm gonna switch it and do Dom from Ghost Island. Ghost Island sucks, but Dom is the closest Survivor that didn't win Survivor. And I'm shocked that he's not here. Because I feel like we need a lot more strategic minds on 50.I feel like we have a lot of comp beasts, a lot of legends and a lot of good social players, but not a lot of strategists. I think there's maybe five that I can count, so maybe that's a lot. But Dom not being here is shocking to me.
And then I know I'm not shocked that she's not here, because she made it very apparent online. But put the pride aside, Survivor. Why is Carolyn not here? I can assume her going on Traitors was like her Survivor 2.0. That was her redemption arc. So Survivor's like, "You did that. We don't have that opportunity." So I get why she's not here. But she is such an interesting character that we really never seen before, and she played the game well. And for her to not be on 50, to me, is almost a travesty.
Finally, what celebrity or fictional character would you bring out for a Loved Ones visit? When we did this only a couple of months ago, you went with John Cena and Derek Jeter. Do you want to double down on that double dose?
No, because it's fun, we'll do it again. So the one answer that I didn't say was Luka Dončić. Luka Dončić means a lot to me, because I told you on 49, being a part of an Albanian representation means a lot. Tere isn't many Albanian people out there. And Luca is not Albanian, but he's from the Balkans. And we're the same age, so as a 16-year-old kid, I followed his journey playing at Real Madrid and then going to the NBA and being one of the biggest NBA stars. That is inspirational to me. It's like, dude, if you made it from the slums of Slovenia, I can make it too. So I would love nothing more for him to come out here and say his little spiel, "Lock in, man." He's a man of very few words, but those few words would go a long way.
And then if I had to pick another one, I'm gonna go with Paul Walker. I know he's no longer with us, but another person that I looked for inspiration as a kid was Paul Walker. Brian O'Connor was the coolest person to me. The Fast and the Furious is my favorite franchise. Because, when I look at Brian O'Connor or Paul Walker, this guy goes from a police officer to a bandit to the most wanted man in America. Fast 7 had such a good ending. It's cinema. I remember as a 13-year-old kid watching that, and I cried.
And it's so f—king crazy how the world works. Because he literally said — I forget the quote now. But it's basically like, "If I die behind the wheel, don't worry. That's how I wanted to die." And that's literally how he passed away. So it's so fitting. And I would love for him just to come here and like, have that moment with me.
Bad Bunny Sees 'Global Surge' After Super Bowl Halftime Show
Bad Bunny’s Super Bowlhalftime show did more than entertain millions of viewers; it immediately reshaped global music charts.
New data released by Apple Music reveals a massive spike in listening, discovery and chart performance for the Puerto Rican superstar in the hours following his historic appearance, marking one of the most powerful post-halftime surges the platform has ever recorded.
According to Apple Music, Bad Bunny landed 24 songs in the Top 100, nine tracks in the Top 25, and five songs in the Top 10 shortly after the show. His track “DTMF” climbed straight to No. 1, leading a chart takeover that unfolded almost in real time as fans rushed to replay what they had just seen on football’s biggest stage.
Bad Bunny performs onstage during the Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show at Levi's Stadium.Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
The surge was publicly confirmed by Apple Music in an Instagram post, where the platform highlighted the scale of the moment. Apple Music also revealed that Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl press conference became the most-watched in Super Bowl history.
View this post on InstagramApple Music, a sponsor of the Super Bowl halftime show, said Bad Bunny’s official show playlist became the most-played set list on the platform shortly after the performance ended. That momentum translated quickly into chart dominance across regions and formats.
View this post on InstagramSeveral of the songs charting after the halftime show marked notable comebacks. Six tracks re-entered the Apple Music Daily Top 100 Global chart for the first time since at least February 2025, showing renewed interest in earlier releases. His collaboration “I Like It” with Cardi B and J Balvin also re-entered the chart for the first time since January 2020, signaling how the halftime exposure reached beyond new fans and reactivated longtime listeners.
Internationally, the numbers were just as striking. Apple Music reported that Bad Bunny’s album Debí Tirar Más Fotos appeared on album charts in 155 countries, reached the Top 10 in 128 countries, and hit No. 1 in 46 territories, including Mexico, Colombia, Chile, Brazil, Germany, France and Spain.
In the United States, Apple Music identified Los Angeles, New York, Chicago and Dallas as the top cities driving Bad Bunny’s listening activity over a six-day period. The surge extended beyond streaming and into music discovery. Apple Music reported that Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime performance marked the biggest day ever on Shazam for any Latin or non-English-language artist.
Across his catalog, Shazam recognitions jumped by more than 400% during and immediately after the performance compared to daily averages, per The Washington Post. Among the most-Shazamed moments were “Die with a Smile,” featuring Lady Gaga, and “Lo Que Le Pasó a Hawaii,” featuring Ricky Martin, both of which drew strong real-time curiosity from viewers.
For many fans watching at home, the data simply confirms what the halftime show made obvious: Bad Bunny’s reach is no longer defined by language or borders.
Screenwriter Claims Canceled 'Star Wars' Movie Might Not Be Dead After All
Even years after it was reportedly shelved, Star Wars: Rogue Squadron continues to resurface in conversation. The Patty Jenkins-directed project, first announced in 2020, remains one of the franchise’s most talked-about unrealized films, and a new update from screenwriter Matthew Robinson offers a clearer picture of what might have been.
In a recent interview with Polygon, Robinson reflected on writing the film alongside Jenkins, acknowledging both the uncertainty surrounding its future and the personal importance of the project. While reports in 2023 suggested the movie had been canceled, Robinson said he does not currently know what Lucasfilm plans to do with the script, especially following the departure of longtime president Kathleen Kennedy.
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Robinson spoke highly of his experience working with Jenkins, describing the collaboration as creatively fulfilling. He emphasized that Rogue Squadron was not designed as a standard 'Star Wars' entry, but as a character-driven story centered on fighter pilots. That focus was deeply tied to Jenkins’ own background.
'It was very much a movie about fighter pilots,' he said. 'Her father was a fighter pilot. It was very personal to her, and we were trying to tell a really great personal story about fighter pilots and Rogue Squadron pilots in the Star Wars universe.'
According to Robinson, the film aimed to explore what it actually means to be a pilot in the Star Wars universe, rather than just seeing them as flashy parts of a space battle. The story was built around the psychology, risk, and discipline of flying.
Robinson also commented on the broader state of Star Wars, noting that the franchise has found success on television in recent years. Projects like The Mandalorian have helped stabilize interest, but theatrical releases remain less certain following the mixed reception to The Rise of Skywalker. Against that backdrop, Rogue Squadron stands out as a missed opportunity for a shift from the epic galaxy-at-risk stories of much of the franchise's big-screen entries.
Whether the film will ever move forward remains unclear. Jenkins previously indicated she had returned to the project after other plans fell through, but any future approval would now come from new leadership with its own creative priorities.
For now, Rogue Squadron exists as a completed script without an immediate way forward. But Robinson hasn't given up hope. 'I think we did a great job with it,' he says, 'and I really hope one day we get to see a version of that."
Ben & Jerry's Adds Three New Flavors to Expansive Ice Cream Lineup
Like every major ice cream brand in the freezer section, Ben & Jerry's always finds a way to deliver quality flavors in each and every one of its conveniently packaged pints of ice cream.
While the iconic ice cream company has more than managed to showcase this talent in the past, Ben & Jerry's is once again showing why they're one of the most popular ice cream purveyors in the country with their three new releases.
According to a recent press release from the company, Ben & Jerry's is set to release three new flavors as part of their expanded Sundaes lineup. These flavors include:
- Straw-Bae Shortcake - Sweet cream ice cream made with shortcake cookies and strawberry swirls, topped with strawberry-swirled shipped topping and shortcake crumble.
- PB Blondie Bestie - Peanut butter ice cream with blonde brownies and graham cracker swirls, topped with caramel-swirled whipped topping and mini peanut butter cups.
- Mocha Mood Pie - Chocolate cold brew ice cream with chocolate cookies and chocolate cookie swirls, topped with fudge-swirled whipped topping and fudge chips.
The three new flavors are all aimed to further explore Ben & Jerry's recently released Sundaes collection, which already features such memorable flavors as Dulce De-lish! Sundae, Choco-lotta Cheesecake Sundae, Turtle Sundae and Cookie Vermont-ster.
"Knowing how much our fans LOVE our Sundaes, it only made sense to add more flavors just in time for Valentine's Day," said Haylee Nelson, Ben & Jerry's Flavor Guru, as part of the announcement. "Bringing the sundae experience home was all about convenience, fun and flavor… and our fans told us we more than delivered on that excitement."
"Who has time to find all the ingredients, the toppings, and even if you can - can you make it to perfection?" Nelson continued. "These Sundaes deliver the perfect Ben & Jerry's Sundae experience for you, your bestie or your bae, every time!"
‘American Pie’ Singer Don McLean, 80, Celebrates Tenth Anniversary With Girlfriend Paris, 31
"American Pie" singer Don McLean, 80, is celebrating his tenth anniversary with his girlfriend, Paris (Dunn) Dylan, 31.
The popular singer is best known for his historic eight-and-a-half-minute folk rock song about "the day the music died." The lengthy tune, which first debuted in 1971, refers to the tragic 1959 plane crash that killed Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper. However, McLean's career extends long beyond the song, with over 20 studio albums under his belt.
In his Instagram post, McLean honored Dylan and their decade-long relationship with a photo of the duo during an appearance at the White House back in 2024.
"Happy anniversary Paris. We’ve been together for more than 10 years and you are the love of my life," McLean captioned the photo of the duo.
In the comments, Paris, who wears a hot pink suit dress in the photo, replied, "love of my life ❤️."
View this post on Instagram Speaking About Their Age-Gap RelationshipMcLean previously told Fox News Digital that he is utterly devoted to Dylan, who follows him around the country as he navigates his hectic touring schedule.
"She is better to me, I think, than anybody I've ever known," he said. "She's a very pure-hearted person. And, my God, she travels everywhere with me. We've probably been to 501 nighters, you know, and she still doesn't get sick of hearing me sing."
He also doesn't worry about the couple's 48-year age gap.
"As long as she's happy and I'm happy, we take it one day at a time, and we'll move ahead, obviously, and who knows what the future holds, but nobody knows what the future holds anyway. So I'm just out there on the edge, dancing," he stated.
McLean Wrote a Song Inspired By His GirlfriendMcLean also noted that he was inspired to write the song "Mexicali Gal" by his devoted girlfriend. Part of his 2024 album "American Boys," the song features lyrics that say "I got a Mexicali Gal/ The best you've ever seen/ I got a Mexicali Gal/ She's a movie queen." Now that's love!
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The 'Sesame Street' Episode So Scary It Disappeared
Sesame Street has always been a place where children feel safe and included, so what led the show to create an episode so frightening that it was pulled from the air?
The 1976 installment wasn't meant to upset viewers. However, due to backlash from parents, the episode aired less than a handful of times before it disappeared forever.
Margaret Hamilton, who famously played the role of The Wicked Witch of the West in The Wizard of Oz, was reportedly a fan of the series, and her grandchildren were avid viewers. So, almost four decades after first donning the green face paint and black costume that made her character iconic, Hamilton once again portrayed the character for Sesame Street's viewers.
However, the response to her appearance appeared to frighten children, per the Muppet Wiki page. The website featured letters from parents which reportedly detailed their children's fear of the character.
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The backlash was so intense, to the character's appearance, that an internal memo restricted further airings of the episode. It read, "Due to the parents' reactions, the contents of their letters, and our impressions from group observation data, we suggest that the Margaret Hamilton show not be re-run."
Ironically, while Hamilton did portray the witch as well, wicked, the episode's lesson was about respect and dignity. The actress was also seen in a separate scene as herself, to show children that she was wearing a costume.
The Memphis Press-Scimitar reported that Hamilton was very familiar with educating children. Before her superstar role, the actress taught kindergarten in Cleveland and operated her own nursery school.
One year before her Sesame Street appearance, Hamilton appeared on another PBS series, Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood. She appeared as herself, alongside the series' star, Fred Rogers.
The episode was intended to show children that the Wicked Witch of the West was just a character she played, and not a real person. Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood addressed the concern as a way to show children that the character wasn’t real.
The actress tried on the iconic black outfit over her regular clothing to demonstrate that the outfit was just a costume. Rogers explained, "You're a real lady who got dressed up to play this part." Hamilton reassured the series's young viewers that the witches' outfit was "just like a Halloween costume."
Margaret Hamilton died on May 16, 1985. She was 82.
Marc Anthony Breaks His Silence on the Beckham Family Fallout: Why Brooklyn’s ‘Hijacked’ Wedding Story is ‘Hardly the Truth’
The guest list for Brooklyn Beckham and Nicola Peltz’s 2022 wedding was a star-studded affair, but years later, one of the most high-profile attendees is finally breaking his silence on the tension that followed. Marc Anthony, a longtime confidant of the Beckham clan and godfather to Cruz Beckham, has addressed the bombshell allegations involving a "hijacked" first dance and a fractured family dynamic.
While sitting down for a discussion about his Las Vegas residency, the Latin music icon didn't hold back his frustration with the current narrative surrounding his close friends David and Victoria Beckham.
Despite the swirling rumors of a multi-year rift, Anthony remained steadfast in his support for the parents of the groom. He emphasized that his bond with the Beckhams spans decades—well before the public drama began to dominate social media feeds.
"I have nothing to say about what’s happening with the family. They’re a wonderful, wonderful family," Anthony told The Hollywood Reporter in an interview published on February 10, 2026. "I’ve known them since before the kids were born. I’m godfather to Cruz. I’m really close to the family."
The singer’s comments come at a pivotal time. Just last month, Brooklyn shared an explosive six-slide Instagram statement detailing his decision to step away from his family. Among the claims, Brooklyn alleged that his mother, Victoria, effectively took over the first dance at his wedding after Anthony called her to the stage instead of his bride, Nicola.
The drama centers on a specific moment during the reception where Brooklyn claimed he felt "humiliated." According to Brooklyn and supporting accounts from DJ Fat Tony, Anthony allegedly introduced Victoria as "the most beautiful woman in the room" and invited her for a dance that was originally intended for the newlyweds.
Brooklyn described the moment as one that left him "more uncomfortable or humiliated" than he had ever felt, citing it as a major reason he has no desire to reconcile with his parents. Anthony, however, suggests that the public version of these events doesn't match the reality behind closed doors. "I have nothing to say about what happened there," Anthony continued. "It’s extremely unfortunate how it’s playing out — but [how it’s playing out] is hardly the truth."
While Brooklyn remains vocal about his independence—stating that his "anxiety disappeared" since distancing himself from the Beckham brand—David and Victoria have largely opted for a "business as usual" approach. The couple has yet to issue a formal rebuttal to their son’s claims, though David recently made headlines with a subtle post noting that "children are allowed to make mistakes."
Anthony’s defense adds a new twist to the saga. As one of the few people present for the most controversial moments of the wedding, his insistence that the story is "hardly the truth" hints at a much more complex side to the story that has yet to be told.
For now, the distance between the Peltz-Beckhams and the original "Brand Beckham" remains wider than ever, even as family friends like Anthony attempt to preserve the reputation of the people he’s called family for years.
‘King of Romance,’ 89, Announces Major 2026 Tour — His First in 7 Years
After seven years away from New Zealand stages, the legendary “King of Romance” is officially returning.
At 89, Engelbert Humperdinck has announced a major 2026 tour expansion that will bring him back to New Zealand for the first time since 2019, followed by a long-awaited run of dates across Australia as part of his ongoing Celebration Tour.
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In a video message shared with fans (via 13th Floor New Zealand), Humperdinck expressed his excitement about bringing his music back to the region.
“I’m thrilled to tell you that I’m coming to New Zealand in June of 2026,” he said, promising to share songs from across his career, including fan favorite “Ten Guitars.”
Engelbert Humperdinck's Message for His Fans in New Zealand (0:35)The Australasian dates extend a broader 2026 tour that begins in the United States later this month. Humperdinck, who turns 90 on May 2, continues to defy expectations with an active touring schedule and a career that spans more than six decades.
Humperdinck rose to fame in the late 1960s with hits like “Release Me,” which famously spent 56 consecutive weeks on the charts and reached No. 1 in 11 countries. Altogether, he has sold more than 140 million records worldwide, with nearly two dozen platinum albums.
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His music has also found new life with younger audiences through film and television, including appearances in The Umbrella Academy and Bullet Train.
Tickets for the newly announced shows go on sale this week, with presales beginning Tuesday, Feb. 10.
Engelbert Humperdinck 2026 Tour DatesFeb. 19 – Chandler, AZ – Gila River Resort & Casino
Feb. 21 – Coachella, CA – Spotlight 29 Casino
Feb. 22 – Anaheim, CA – The Grove
Mar. 20 – Glenside, PA – Keswick Theatre
Mar. 21 – Lynn, MA – Lynn Auditorium
Mar. 27 – Warren, MI – Andiamo Celebrity Showroom
Mar. 28 – Warren, OH – Packard Music Hall
Apr. 17 – Las Vegas, NV – Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino
Apr. 18 – Las Vegas, NV – Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino
June 26 – Wellington, NZ – Michael Fowler Centre
June 28 – Christchurch, NZ – Christchurch Town Hall
June 30 – Auckland, NZ – Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre
July 4 – Brisbane, AUS – QPAC Concert Hall
July 6 – Gold Coast, AUS – The Star
July 8 – Melbourne, AUS – Hamer Hall
July 10 – Adelaide, AUS – Her Majesty’s Theatre
July 12 – Perth, AUS – Riverside Theatre
July 14 – Sydney, AUS – State Theatre
Oct. 2 – Las Vegas, NV – Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino
Oct. 3 – Las Vegas, NV – Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino
Dutch Bros at Home Line Expands Nationwide
Dutch Bros is now going to be available more broadly, allowing more fans than ever to enjoy its lineup of coffee, creamers and ready-to-drink bevs no matter where they live.
The rapidly expanding coffee chain is predominantly located on the West Coast, where it's become a cult favorite for several reasons, including its menu items. Dutch Bros currently operates over 1,100 stores, with higher concentrations scattered across the western half of the country through Texas. As the chain's physical presence grows, so is its lineup of packaged products, including ground coffee and pods, creamers and ready-to-drink beverages.
On Tuesday, Dutch Bros announced its at home assortment would be stocked at more stores than ever before—even better, the lineup is heading out nationwide.
"We've loved seeing the excitement around our Dutch Bros at home assortment, and we're thrilled to keep expanding availability," Dutch Bros' chief executive officer and president Christine Barone shared in a statement. "It's a new way for customers to bring the flavors they love into more of their everyday moments."
Dutch Bros At Home Assortment Goes NationwideIt's not just select Dutch Bros products receiving a wider release; it's the entire collection—including bags of ground coffee, full-size creamers, single-serve ready-to-drink iced lattes, multi-serve ready-to-drink iced coffee and lattes, and single-serve coffee pods.
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If you prefer to brew it yourself, Dutch Bros ground coffee and K-Cup pods are now available in six varieties, including a few inspired by popular menu items. Shoppers will soon find Dutch Bros' OG Medium Roast, Mafia Dark Roast, Chocolate Macadamia Nut (inspired by its Annihilator), Vanilla Caramel (inspired by its Golden Eagle), Caramel Mocha (after the Caramelizer) and Coconut Mocha (AKA the Cocomo) on shelves near them.
Five Dutch Bros creamers are now available more widely, as well. Find them in the refrigerated aisle: Chocolate Macadamia Nut (inspired by its Annihilator), Caramel Mocha (after the Caramelizer), Coconut Mocha (AKA the Cocomo), and Dutch Bros Irish Cream (inspired by its Kicker).
The collection features signature ground coffee, ready-to-drink iced lattes, creamers, and single-serve coffee pods in shop-inspired flavors, including fan-favorites like the Golden Eagle and Annihilator.Dutch Bros
As for ready-to-drink lattes and coffee drinks, they're available in 13.7-ounce single-serve bottles and 48-ounce share-size bottles. Fans will find Dutch Bros Chocolate Macadamia Nut (inspired by its Annihilator), Caramel Mocha (after the Caramelizer), Coconut Mocha (AKA the Cocomo) and Vanilla Caramel (inspired by its Golden Eagle) available in single-serve containers and multi-serve bottles. Dutch Bros OG Medium Roast is also available in the larger size.
"This is an ideal time for Dutch Bros to enter the CPG market," Matt Knox, vice president of marketing at Trilliant Food & Nutrition (the manufacturer of Dutch Bros at home), added. "The coffee category is primed for disruption, and we are pleased to partner with Dutch Bros to help drive that change."
This collection not only marks a "bold" new chapter in Dutch Bros' history, but it's also furthering its tradition of giving. According to the release, a portion of the proceeds from its at home line will be donated to the Dutch Bros Foundation, its charitable organization that invests in the futures of the communities it serves and the people who call them home.
Dutch Bros' at home assortment is available now on Amazon ($8.99+) and on shelves at select Walmart, H.E.B, and Albertsons locations nationwide (prices vary). Its availability is expected to continue to roll out across additional grocery, mass, and e-commerce retailers in the near future, per the release. To find it at a store near you, use the official Dutch Bros at home product locator on the company's website.
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Bill Maher Admits 'Jimmy Kimmel is Very Mad at Me' After Commenting on His Wife
Despite maintaining a friendly view of his late-night colleague Jimmy Kimmel, Bill Maher admitted that the Jimmy Kimmel Live! host is "very mad at me" on a recent podcast interview.
Appearing on an episode of Adam Carolla's Club Random, the 70-year-old Real Time host discussed he and Kimmel's recent falling out over their differing views on American politics, something Maher believes was blown unnecessarily out of proportion.
“Jimmy Kimmel, you know, he’s very mad at me and I know you’re close to him,” Maher said to Carolla, who co-hosted Comedy Central's The Man Show alongside Kimmel from 1999 to 2004. “I hope you tell him that I’m sorry that it got bent out of shape. I don’t think I did anything wrong. We can have disagreements. I mean, you and I don’t agree on everything, look at this clash now, and yet we’re cool.”
In his view, Maher cited his main issue with many late-night comedians as their inability to mock both sides of the political spectrum, with the HBO host pointing out the fact that he's able to satirize both Democrats and Republicans alike.
“I don’t just buy into the left-wing bullsh*t, and I never stop making fun of the right-wing bullsh*t at all!” Maher said. “And like, if that’s not good enough for you, then I think you’re the a**hole, and I don’t think Jimmy is an a**hole… I think he’s a great guy, and it bugs me that, you know, because of what the latest thing was, that, you know, we may never talk again.”
While Maher did not directly bring it up, Maher's fractured relationship with Kimmel likely comes as a result of Maher speaking out on his colleague's wife, who revealed that she had cut ties with family members who had voted for Trump in the last presidential election.
“She says she’s lost relationships with relatives because she wrote them an email before the election with ten reasons why they shouldn’t vote for Trump, and some still didn’t obey, so you know. Ultimatums," Maher said on Real Time in response to the story. "Ten reasons? I can think of 100. But I would never present it to someone as an ultimatum. Ultimatums don’t make people rethink their politics. They make them rethink you.”
The $100K Burrito Debate: Behind Chipotle CEO's Viral Audio and Why Fans Say They’re Being Priced Out of Their Favorite Bowl
Chipotle fans are reaching their breaking point, and a viral clip from the company's latest earnings call isn't helping. CEO Scott Boatwright sparked a firestorm of social media outrage after revealing that the fast-casual giant’s "core" customer isn't exactly the budget-conscious college student of years past. Instead, the brand is pivoting its gaze toward a much more affluent diner.
During the fourth-quarter 2025 earnings call on February 3, Boatwright shared internal data that many interpreted as a green light for more expensive bowls. “We learned that 60% of our core users are over $100,000 a year in income, in average household income,” Boatwright said in audio that quickly went viral. “That gives us confidence that we can lean into that group in a more meaningful way.”
The remarks surfaced as Chipotle reported a challenging year, with comparable restaurant sales declining 2.5% in the fourth quarter and transactions dropping 3.2%. By focusing on the 60% of guests making six figures—who are still spending despite the tough economy—Chipotle appears to be shielding its bottom line from the "convenience plateau" hitting the industry.
CEO of Chipotle caught on a recording indicating they’re going to keep raising prices because they can
“We learned that 60% of our core users are over $100,000 a year in income, in average household income. That gives us confidence that we can lean into that group in a more… pic.twitter.com/5nYcigMgJo
While many fans heard a threat of higher prices, Chipotle’s leadership maintains the strategy is about marketing, not just the menu. Chief Corporate Affairs Officer Laurie Schalow emphasized that the goal is to give high earners more reasons to visit, such as solo dining innovations or group catering.
"Pricing was never mentioned regarding this consumer cohort," Schalow said in a statement. She noted that Chipotle’s price increases this quarter hovered around 0.7%, significantly lower than the industry average of 4%.
However, the "confidence" Boatwright mentioned comes at a tense time. Record-high beef prices and labor inflation are squeezing margins. CFO Adam Rymer recently suggested that additional nationwide increases of 1% to 2% could be on the horizon for 2026. The internet hasn't been kind to the CEO's remarks, with many arguing that even the "affluent" demographic isn't impressed. On Reddit, the backlash was swift, with users slamming the company for prioritizing profits over the quality and portion sizes that made the brand a household name.
"What an absolute mess," one fan wrote. "The CEO is caught on a recording saying that he doesn't want the poors in his store... We got Campbell's up outta here, sir. We can get you outta here too!"
Even those within Chipotle’s new target demographic aren't biting. One mother with a household income over $150,000 shared that she rarely visits anymore because "the food is complete ass and the portion sizes are a joke." She added, "Rather give the local Mexican joint our money. More food & better quality at a similar price."
Others noted that as prices climb toward the $20 mark, the "value for dollar" disappears. "If they cared about six figure earners they’d improve the quality and portion sizes which have both cratered," another user added.
For the six-figure earners Chipotle is courting, the decision to dine out often comes down to flavor over price—but that may be where the brand is failing. One diner mentioned spending $40 on a beef wrap for hotel delivery specifically because they wanted high quality, noting, "I checked the reviews... what I cared about was quality of food, and flavor over value for dollar. That said, I don't think I would ever order from Chipotle anyway."
To win back those who are drifting away, Chipotle is planning a major relaunch of its Rewards program this spring, featuring AI-powered personalization and gamified challenges. But with a "K-shaped" recovery seeing lower-income diners cut back and higher-income diners becoming more selective, a digital-first strategy might not be enough to fix the sting of a shrinking burrito.
‘Brady Bunch’ Star Reveals the Secret Behind the Show’s Timeless Appeal 50 Years Later
Barry Williams shared his take on why The Brady Bunch is still a phenomenon more than 50 years after it first aired on TV.
The classic sitcom, which originally ran on ABC from 1969 to 1974, was about a blended family of six children (played by Williams, Maureen McCormick, Christopher Knight, Eve Plumb, Mike Lookinland, and Susan Olsen), their newly married parents (Robert Reed and Florence Henderson), and their live-in housekeeper (Ann B. Davis). It was popular enough to spawn several spinoffs and big-screen movies.
Speaking with Women’s Weekly in a February 2026 interview, Williams, 71, explained why the show still resonates with fans who watch it in syndication and on streaming platforms decades later.
“This was a show asking, if there was a functioning family, what would it look like? And so there’s kind of that idealistic role model for people to see, okay, that’s a functioning family. The dad is helpful, and mom listens to the kids, and the kids, they have arguments but try to get along,” Williams said.
“In fact, the whole show is about how do you get along? Coming from different places, the girls meeting the boys and the parents getting married, how do you make that work? And so we were ‘all for one and one for all,’” the Greg Brady actor continued. “We had very good morals. I think in timeless kinds of morality, where honesty, truthfulness, good-naturedness, good intention, you know, wins out.”
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Other Brady stars agreedWilliams’ Brady Bunchsister, McCormick, made similar comments in 2025. In an interview with Digital Journal, McCormick shared that she had met fans who “actually start crying because the show meant so much to them.”
“The Brady Bunch was a place to escape, or to dream, or to actually feel like they were a part of that family,” she explained. “I think The Brady Bunch was a very inclusive family. I love that people feel like they’re a part of it.”
Knight, who played middle brother Peter Brady on the beloved comedy series, admitted that his real family was nothing like the Bradys.
During a Q& A episode of The Real Brady Bros. podcast, Knight, 68, said The Brady Bunch was difficult for his mother to understand because “her family wasn't like that and there was no way she was able to make her family like that.”
“I think that our family wasn’t working really well… the Bradys was,” he said, adding that he looked at the fictional family on the show as “aspirational.”
The Brady Bunch stars all echoed the sentiments of showrunner Sherwood Schwartz. Several years before his death in 2011, Schwartz told Retrocrush that the secret to The Brady Bunch’s appeal was that they were a role model for viewers' own families.
“I think that people growing up might see a family that they would try to emulate because they have deficiencies in their own family,” Schwartz said in 2003. “They don’t talk to their parents as well as the Brady kids talk to theirs. If they’re similar, they have something in common. Either way, families tune in to see The Brady Bunch. We just wanted an entertaining show that had certain moral qualities.
20+ Free Printable Valentine's Cards for Your Sweethearts This Valentine's Day
There's no better time than Valentine's Day to let someone know how you feel about them. And there's no better way to do that on February 14 than with a Valentine's Day card! While there are beautiful Valentine's Day cards for sale at just about any store, there's something special about receiving a homemade note.
Below, you'll find a roundup of free printable Valentine cards that are perfect for sending to a romantic partner, your group of Galentines, your child's classmates at school, teachers, delivery drivers and just about anyone else!
These cards are all a cinch to download and then print out at home for that do-it-yourself feel. Some will let you personalize the inside message with a cute Valentine's Day quote for your honey or include a picture. No matter which you choose, it's a great way to wish someone a Happy Valentine's Day!
Related: 65 Best Valentine's Day Pick-Up Lines to Get You Noticed This February 14
Homemade Gifts Made Easy
Who doesn't love donuts? Show your Valentine just how a-glaze-ing they are with this printable donut-themed card from Homemade Gifts Made Easy. Once you download the PDF, you can print out the foldable card and write a sweet message inside.
2. Nintendo CharactersPlay Nintendo
The little gamers in your life will love getting a card featuring their favorite Nintendo character! Play Nintendo—the gaming system's official activity site aimed towards kids—has six free Valentine cards that can be downloaded and printed out, featuring Daisy, the Inklings, Link, Reese, Yoshi and Mario!
All six images download in a zip file, and you can then print as many as you'd like!
Related: Why My Husband and I Do a 'Relationship Inventory' Every Valentine's Day
3. Beary CuteThe Incremental Mama
These printable panda cards from The Incremental Mama are a sweet way to wish someone a Happy Valentine's Day in black and white. (Um, and pink. And turquoise. And lavender.) There are four different designs that you can download and print out at home using a color printer.
4. Llama Be Your ValentineArtsy Fartsy Mama
Take your pick from these eight woolly cute llama Valentine cards from Artsy Fartsy Mama. The free printable includes eight brightly colored cards (four vertical and four horizontal) with adorable llama puns. All eight designs will download as a PDF for easy printing at home.
5. Double-Sided Heart ValentineSmart Ink
Smart Ink—the printer ink retailer—has a template for five free printable Valentine Cards. Four of the designs are double-sided heart cards that you can print with two-sided printing, cut out and fold in half; then, sign the inside of the card with a message for your sweetie.
There is also a postcard-sized card to print and fold in half, with plenty of space inside for you to share a Valentine's Day joke.
Related: Why I Use the Most Romantic Day of the Year to Virtually Stalk My Exes
6. Un-Frog-EttableXerox
Xerox has a wide selection of free printable Valentine cards, ranging from beautifully designed images of classic bouquets to adorable postcards for kids, as well as cute cartoonish renderings of animals like this hoppy frog.
The free templates from Xerox come in four different sizes (except the kids' postcards, which are four to a page), and each design allows you to customize a personal message in the PDF if you'd like to do double-sided printing.
7. Candy-Coated ValentineGreetings Island
This candy-themed free printable card from Greetings Island would be a perfect complement to a box of Valentine's chocolates for your sweetheart. The card can be customized to include your own personalized message (and up to three photos) inside.
8. Valentines Fur-EverI Should Be Mopping The Floor
Designed specifically to fit an A6 greeting card envelope, these dog cards from I Should Be Mopping the Floor are paws-itively perfect to send in the mail to someone special to wish them a Happy Valentine's Day.
You can also download these free printable puppy cards four to a page for smaller Valentines to hand out at school.
9. Totally Roar-SomePineapple Paper Co.
If your kiddo's school is requesting non-food treats on Valentine's Day, check out these free printable dinosaur cards from Pineapple Paper Co. The free download prints six cards to a page, and there are two different designs: muted pastel shades for girls, and cards with primary colors for boys.
You can mix and match the number of cards that you need for the students in the class. Once you are done printing and cutting the cards, attach a small toy dinosaur to the center of each card for a t-riffic prize!
10. I Heart MomMy Free Printable Cards
Don't forget about mom! This "I love you, Mom" card from My Free Printable Cards has a cute crossword-style message on a pink and white pinstripe background.
Related: 15 Seriously Sweet Valentine's Day Cupcakes We Love
11. Slime So Glad You're My ValentineNatural Beach Living
The cloud dough and slime fads are still going strong among kids these days. Natural Beach Living combines a DIY dough-making craft (that you can easily make alongside your little one) with six free printable Valen-slime cards. It's sure to be a gooey hit among the students in your child's classroom!
12. Pop to ItThat's What Che Said
Your kids can wish all of their friends and classmates a popping-good Valentine's Day with this free printable from That's What Che Said. The free download includes eight colorful tag-shaped cards that you can attach to a mini pop-it keychain for a Valentine's Day gift that keeps on giving!
13. Yoda BestThe Farmgirl Gabs
Star Wars fans will love giving and receiving these Mandalorian Valentine Cards from The Farmgirl Gabs. The free printable includes six adorable Baby Yoda designs that you can download and print out—just sign up with your email address, and you will get the file in your inbox!
Related: 60 Epic Anti-Valentine's Day Quotes and Captions for February 14
14. A Colorful WorldHomeschool Of 1
Free, printable folded notecards from Homeschool of 1 feature eight different designs that can be colored in (by the giver or receiver) on one side and a Happy Valentine's Day message on the reverse.
The inside of each card is blank, so the space can be filled with a message of your own or another drawing. Pair a coloring page with one of these Valentine's gifts for kids for the little ones in your life.
15. Juice the CutestReally Are You Serious?
You will have juice the cutest Valentine's Day cards when you print this fun maze on 2" X 4" label stickers and attach them to a drink box. Get the free template from Really Are You Serious?
16. It's Cool to Be KindCoffee and Carpool
Encourage children to spread kindness this Valentine's Day with these free printable cards from Coffee and Carpool. A charming project that can be used by caregivers at home or educators at school, the free printables include notes with prompts that children can fill out themselves and blank notes that they can write their own message on.
The notes can also be signed with a name or sent by a Secret Valentine. There are even kindness notes to send to the adults at school, like the principal, custodian and teacher!
Related: Free Printable Valentine's Day Coloring Pages
17. Whale, HelloThe Cards We Drew
This cute narwhal card from The Cards We Drew is another adorable free printable that includes a sweet Valentine's Day treat. The bright card says, "Whale you be my Valentine?" and has a narwhal in front of a rainbow.
Attach a twisty lollipop as the narwal's horn, and you have a perfect little treat to hand out to neighbors, classmates, grandparents or even the delivery drivers!
18. You Make My Heart FlutterShutterfly
Visit Shutterfly to get the template for these pretty butterfly pencil toppers. The free printable includes red, pink and white butterfly wings as well as a blank one that your kids can color in themselves. Don't forget to have your child write their name on the back!
After you print them out, cut along the dotted lines of the butterfly wings and bend them slightly. Gently cut the two dotted lines in the center of the wings and slide a pencil down the center. You can find the rest of Shutterfly's free Valentine printables here.
Related: 110 Romantic Gestures for Him That Will Definitely Make His Day
19. Leapin' WizardsDiary of a So Cal Mama
Have a Harry Potter-obsessed witch- or wizard-in-training at your house? They're going to love sharing these Harry Potter Valentine Cards with their friends! The blog of Diary of a So Cal Mama no longer exists but perhaps they will share the designs if you contact them on Instagram.
20. Wheely Great ValentinesLife Over C's
Over at Life Over C's, you can find a racecar printable that your little speedster will be super excited to send out to his or her friends this Valentine's Day. Each page will print out four different race car designs, with a space for your child to write his or her name.
The cute sayings on the cards are: You're a wheelie great friend, You're first place in my heart, You really drive me wild, and I like how you roll.
21. Stick to ItWatch Them Grow
Kids love stickers, and these super-cute sticker cards from Watch Them Grow are a fun alternative to a sugary Valentine's treat. The free printable gives you six cards that say "I'm stuck on you" in a cute pink, red and turquoise color palette, and a place for your child to write their name.
Once you print them and cut out each card, glue or tape a favor-sized box of stickers (available in the seasonal Valentine aisle at most stores) to the plain white side of the card.
22. Woodland CreaturesLittle Girl's Pearls
How darling are these forest friends from Little Girl's Pearls? This free PDF includes six vintage-inspired designs: three deer, two bunnies and a flower-toting bear, each with a cute Valentine's Day message—like "Happy Valentine's Day, My Deer" and "Some bunny loves you"—and a space on each card for the "to" and "from" names to be written in.
23. The S'more, the MerrierThe Homespun Hydrangea
There are four different cards in this set of great outdoors printable Valentines from The Homespun Hydrangea. Bright and colorful, these cards include one kid-friendly option ("You make me a happy camper") and three flirty cards to send to someone you'd like to be "s'more than friends" with!
Related: You're Welcome—30 DIY Valentine's Gifts That You Can Actually Pull Off Before Feb. 14
The First-Ever 'Dancing With the Stars' Con Is Happening — And the Guest List Is Huge
Dancing with the Stars revealed today that it is holding its first-ever Dancing with the Stars Con this coming summer in Palm Springs, CA at the Acrisure Arena.
Dancing with the Stars Con 2026 will be a celebration of all things DWTS. Fans of the hit ABC reality series will be able to get close to all the action when the ballroom comes to life, including live dance performances, live panels, interactive photo experiences, exhibitions and more.
Here's everything to know about the first-ever "Dancing with the Stars Con."
When is Dancing with the Stars Con 2026?Dancing with the Stars Con 2026 will take place Friday, July 31 to Sunday, August 2.
Where is Dancing with the Stars Con 2026?Dancing with the Stars Con 2026 will be held at the Acrisure Arena.
What will happen at Dancing with the Stars Con 2026?Designed to celebrate the iconic television series and its passionate fan base, Dancing with the Stars Con will offer two live dance performances featured on the ballroom floor, interactive live panels with your DWTS favorites, interactive photo experiences, exhibits, Q&A sessions, exclusive merchandise and unique fan experiences inspired by the hit show that’s just celebrated 20 years on air.
Courtesy: Disney
Which former DWTS celebrities will be at Dancing with the Stars Con 2026?The guest list for Dancing with the Stars Con includes standouts from a number of different seasons, including a few Mirror Ball Trophy winners! Here's the full lineup:
Hannah BrownDanielle Fishel
Xochitl Gomez
Joey Graziadei
Elaine Hendrix
Rashad Jennings
Amanda Kloots
Whitney Leavitt
Phaedra Parks
JoJo Siwa
Johnny Weir
Rumer Willis
Kristi Yamaguchi
Ginger ZeeWhich DWTS pros will be at Dancing with the Stars Con 2026?
Of course, where there's DWTS, pros can't be far behind! Here are all the seasoned professionals who will be at the con:
Brandon ArmstrongLindsay Arnold
Rylee Arnold
Alan Bersten
Hailey Bills
Sharna Buress
Witney Carson
Val Chmerkovskiy
Sasha Farber
Jenna Johnson
Daniella Karagach
Pasha Pashkov
Jan Ravnik
Gleb Savchenko
Emma Slater
Ezra Sosa
Britt Stewart
Related: Emma Slater Teases What to Expect from the Dancing with the Stars Live 2026 Tour (Exclusive)
Which Dancing with the Stars judges will take part in Dancing with the Stars Con 2026?Carrie Ann InabaBruno TonioliHow to get tickets to Dancing with the Stars Con 2026
Tickets and VIP Packages go on sale Saturday, Feb. 14 at 10 a.m. PT at DWTSCON.com. 3-Day Early Bird tickets start at $199 plus fees.
Verizon will offer customers an exclusive presale for Dancing with the Stars Con 2026 in the U.S – no strings attached, simply for being a Verizon customer. The presale runs from Thursday, Feb. 12 at 10 a.m. PST to Friday, Feb. 13 at 10 p.m. PST. Visit myAccess in the My Verizon app for more details.
Fans who want early access to the best seats and VIP perks can sign up for a Mirrorball Membership. This membership is free. Mirrorball Member Presale starts Thursday, Feb. 12 at 12 p.m. PST. Visit DWTSCon.com to sign up now.
VIP Packages and VIP Upgrades will be available for DWTS CON 2026. VIP packages and upgrades vary and may include solo or group photos with a selection of DWTS CON talent, VIP Hospitality Area, Friday welcome event with select DWTS CON talent, Exclusive Merch, crowd free shopping and much more. Head to DWTSCon.com for more information.
Hollywood Legend Celebrates 96th Birthday
Hollywood legend Robert Wagner celebrates his 96th birthday, marking decades of unforgettable roles on the small screen.
After signing with 20th Century Fox, Wagner became a wildly popular teen idol following a role in the 1952 film With a Song in My Heart. He soon booked roles in the moviesHalls of Montezuma (1951), With a Song in My Heart (1952), Titanic (1953), Prince Valiant (1954), Broken Lance (1954), and The Mountain (1956).
The actor found even greater success on the small screen, per Biography. He starred in the television series' It Takes a Thief (1968-1970), Switch (1975-1978), and the wildly popular Hart to Hart, alongside Stefanie Powers from 1979 through 1984.
The series starred Wagner as Jonathan Hart, a wealthy and suave businessman, and Powers as Jennifer Hart, his adventurous and charming wife. The couple led a glamorous life, filled with luxury, travel, and high-society events, and solved crimes and mysteries along the way.
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View this post on InstagramAfter Hart to Hart ended its run on ABC in 1984, Wagner maintained a steady career in both movies and television, most notably playing Number 2 in the Austin Powers film trilogy (1997–2002) and enjoying recurring roles as Anthony DiNozzo Sr. on NCIS (2010–2019) and Teddy Leopold on Two and a Half Men (2007–2008). The actor has also guest-starred on Hot in Cleveland and voiced characters in Futurama, per IMDb.
Per Biography, the actor was married to Natalie Wood from 1957 through 1962. Wagner then married Marion Marshall in 1963, welcoming daughter Katherine before the couple divorced in 1971. Wagner and Wood rekindled their love affair, remarrying in 1972. Their daughter Courtney was born in 1974.
View this post on InstagramSadly, Wood died in 1981. The couple was on a boat with actor Christopher Walken during Thanksgiving weekend when the actress disappeared.
Wood's body was found floating a mile away from the boat. Her death was ruled an accidental drowning.
“We were such a romantic couple, actually. The highlight of our lives was when we got back together. And then this horrible tragedy . . . good God," Wagner revealed to The Los Angeles Times in 2008.
Robert Wagner has been married to actress Jill St. John for over 35 years.
Selma Blair and Jerry O'Connell Join the New Spinoff of This Hit Action Series
A pair of longtime actors whose work dates back to the 1990s and beyond are making a return to the small screen.
A new spinoff to CBS' long-running action-drama series S.W.A.T. has just welcomed Selma Blair (Legally Blonde) and Jerry O’Connell (Billions) as guest stars, Variety reports. S.W.A.T. Exiles, the upcoming 10-episode show, is led by star and executive producer Shemar Moore.
Besides Moore, 55, the new series stars:
- Lucy Barrett (Deep Water)
- Adain Bradley (Warfare)
- Zyra Gorecki (La Brea)
- Freddy Miyares (When They See Us)
- Ronen Rubinstein (9-1-1: Lone Star)
Here’s the new series' logline, as Variety noted on Monday, Feb. 9: “In this spin-off from Sony’s iconic S.W.A.T. IP, which has spawned multiple series and films, after a high-profile mission goes sideways, Daniel ‘Hondo’ Harrelson (Moore) is pulled out of forced retirement to lead a last-chance experimental SWAT unit made up of untested, unpredictable young recruits. Hondo must bridge a generational divide, navigate clashing personalities, and turn a squad of outsiders into a team capable of protecting the city and saving the program that made him who he is. S.W.A.T. promises to deliver the same high-stakes drama and intense action sequences that fans have come to know and love."
Last month, Blair made headlines when she revealed Kylie Jenner's brand is her go-to when it comes to mascara. More specifically, the Cruel Intentions star's favorite is the Kylash Volume Mascara, as Blair noted in The Strategist’s “Can’t Live Without” column released late January.
“No one’s ever heard of Kylie Jenner, so I should probably promote her a bit,” Blair said in the column. “I’m just kidding.”
O'Connell, meanwhile, was in the news late last year when he paid a sweet tribute to the late Rob Reiner, who directed him at a young age in the classic film Stand By Me. "Love you, Rob. Sincerely,” O’Connell captioned the picture he shared on X hours after news broke that Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, had been found dead.
Love you, Rob. Sincerely. pic.twitter.com/sGRt5euoXd
— Jerry O'Connell (@MrJerryOC) December 15, 2025Beloved '90s Alt-Rockers Announce New Album 36 Years After Going Platinum
Even people who don't think they know the music of They Might Be Giants almost definitely know at least a song or two, especially considering founding members (and childhood buddies) John Flansburgh and John Linnell wrote the super-catchy and Grammy-winning theme song for Malcolm in the Middle, "Boss of Me," and their 1990 album Flood (featuring "Birdhouse in Your Soul" and "Instanbul (Not Constantinople)") went platinum. (Plus, parents are more than likely familiar with the alt-rockers' super popular children's music albums.)
Thankfully for fans and new listeners alike, They Might Be Giants (TMBG) have been busy making new music, too. Following the recent release of their Eyeball EP, TMBG just announced a new LP scheduled for release in April called The World Is To Dig (their first TMBG album since 2021's BOOK), and fans can already hear and download the first single: "Wu-Tang."
View this post on InstagramCommenters on the Instagram post announcing the new music were beyond excited to hear the news.
"THIS IS KEEPING ME GOING," declared one person, with a second adding, "OH MY GOD ITS HAPPENING."
"I can't wait for the whole album to come out! This song is amazingly good. Thank you for bringing some joy into this world!!!" raved another fan.
How TMBG developed their 'obtuse, snobby art rock sensibility'In a 2024 interview with SPIN, Flansburgh opened up about the evolution of TMBG's unique sound.
“We were high school kids writing quirky and idiosyncratic songs. But there were antecedents, breadcrumbs there that would kind of lead to where we ended up," Flansburgh recalled. “We did a cover of ‘Don’t Worry Kyoko (Mummy’s Only Looking for a Hand in the Snow)’ by Yoko Ono, but we were both singing in Rod Serling voices…apropos of what, I’m not exactly sure.
“Alternative rock was barely even a thing in Brooklyn," Flansburgh continued. "I would hear about all these bands like Green On Red or the Pandoras; I’d read about them in SPIN, but I would never hear them. There was no college radio we heard that was playing that stuff. Where we lived, we didn’t get MTV. Most of my ’80s and ’90 was neck-deep in hip hop."
Flansburgh went on to say that Linnell had been in a band called the Mundanes, "a big college rock band in Providence, R.I. that was very successful on the Brown campus."
"They wanted to have careers in music, but over time, a sense of gloom kind of came over them. And that informed us professionally; we thought, ‘If we do something that seems interesting to us, we will never regret however much time we invest in it.’ And that led us to an aesthetic that combines our sense of humor and our obtuse, snobby art rock sensibility," he explained.
One thing's for sure: What TMBG does is anything but "mundane."
Related: '90s Alt-Rock Icons Announce First 2026 Concert After Resurgence
Did Mariah Carey Lip-Sync at the Winter Olympics?
Mariah Carey’s performance at the 2026 Winter Olympics opening ceremony in Milan quickly drew attention, both for its spectacle and for questions about whether she sang live. Carey opened with 'Volare,' the classic Italian song, performing in Italian before transitioning to her own 'Nothing Is Impossible' at San Siro Stadium. The set was intended to honor the host country while celebrating the Olympic theme of perseverance.
Carey, one of the best-selling female artists in music history with more than 200 million records sold worldwide, is known for her signature vocal range and high notes. Singing 'Volare' in Italian marked a rare moment in her career where she performed in a language other than English. Carey's choice was praised for its ambition, but that didn't stop a potential controversy from sprouting. It was big enough that even the AP picked up on it.
You can see it here:
While the stadium applauded her rendition, viewers online questioned her performance. There was a large teleprompter with phonetically spelled Italian lyrics, which would make sense if Carey was singing live. But many fans noted that Carey's lip movements did not actually match the audio, and not in a way that just suggested lag.
'I don’t understand,' one fan said. 'Something looked incredibly wrong. Sound and lip syncing aside, her expression and lack thereof was very troubling to me. It’s like she wasn’t even there, despite her physical presence. I hope she is okay.'
Another viewer added that they felt Carey 'made ZERO effort to match her lip syncing with the song lyrics, and spent the ENTIRE performance in a very strange, zoned out state.'
Related: Mariah Carey Proves Diamonds Are an Olympic Sport
Others weren't sure, but suggested if she did, there was a reason. 'The vocal was always going to be pre‑recorded because they usually are for these things,' one viewer added. 'But Mariah didn’t try to match her expressions and motions to the vocal at all. One highly upvoted comment said: 'I’m not sure if she was lip‑synching, but she seemed fully present in the moment, and her voice sounded fantastic.'
Organizers did not confirm whether Carey sang live, noting that pre-recorded elements are standard in large-scale, globally broadcast ceremonies to ensure sound quality and timing.
Even with criticism, Carey’s appearance was one of the most visible moments of the opening ceremony. Her choice to sing in Italian and her unique, glittering dress added a stunning visual and respectful nod to the Olympic host country.
In a career spanning more than three decades, Carey has repeatedly delivered ambitious, high-stakes performances. The Olympic stage was another example of her ability to command global attention, even if she may have had a little help.
Disney Hotel Perks Are Shifting in 2026—What’s Staying, What’s New, What’s Ending
Planning a Disney vacation always comes with a lot of moving pieces—from tickets and park days to dining reservations and hotel choices. For many park fans, where you stay is a big deal, because Disney hotels often come with extra conveniences that can make trips feel smoother, like earlier park access, built-in transportation or small bonuses that help you fit more into a day.
Those perks are part of how many families plan their itineraries, but they don’t stay exactly the same year to year. For 2026, some Disney hotel benefits are staying exactly as they were last year, a few are expanding—especially during the summer—and others are being scaled back, depending on whether you’re visiting Walt Disney World or Disneyland. Here’s what to know as you plan.
Related: One of Disney's Beloved Rides is Making a Comeback
Walt Disney World: Most Perks Are Staying—and Summer Adds More Value Disney is offering a summer of savings this year.Disney
Though you may have heard social media reports saying differently, at Walt Disney World, the core hotel perks that guests relied on in 2025—namely early park entry and dining access—are continuing into 2026.
Disney Resort hotel guests will still receive 30 minutes of early access every day of their stay, including arrival and departure days. What’s new for summer 2026 is an added layer of fun: during Cool KIDS’ SUMMER, Disney is introducing special character appearances that happen specifically during Early Entry hours across all four theme parks.
Dining access is also easier than it’s been in recent years, with Disney restoring a planning advantage that many guests had missed. In 2026, hotel guests can once again book dining reservations 60 days before check-in and reserve meals for their entire stay—up to 10 nights—in one booking window. This restores a planning advantage that had been partially rolled back in prior seasons.
Lightning Lane access at Walt Disney World is continuing without change. Guests staying on property can begin booking Lightning Lane selections seven days before their trip starts, covering their entire stay (up to 14 days), compared with three days for off-site visitors.
The free water park perk is returning, but it is more limited than in previous years. For 2026, Disney Resort hotel guests can visit a water park for free on their check-in day only for stays between May 26 and September 8. The benefit is now seasonal and subject to blackout dates and availability, making it narrower than earlier versions of the perk—but still valuable during peak summer travel.
Cool KIDS’ SUMMER itself brings some of the biggest value increases of the year. Disney is offering:
- Two free room nights and two free theme park days when guests purchase select 4-night, 4-day (or longer) Walt Disney Travel Company packages
- Room discounts up to 30% for the general public, with steeper savings for Florida residents (up to 35%) and Annual Passholders (up to 40%)
- Free dining plans for kids ages 3 to 9 when adults purchase qualifying dining plans
- Extended park hours, seasonal entertainment, and new character-driven activities at both the parks and select resorts
These offers are available for most stays between late May and mid-September 2026 and can be combined, making summer one of the most deal-heavy periods Disney has offered in years.
Related: Disney Rolls Out New Summer Deals as Park Costs Rise
Disneyland Resort: Early Entry Ends, New Lightning Lane Perk BeginsAt Disneyland Resort, hotel perks are changing in a more noticeable way.
Early Entry for Disneyland Resort hotel guests officially ended on January 4. Beginning January 5, the long-running 30-minute early park access was replaced with a new benefit: one Lightning Lane Multi Pass entry per guest, per stay.
This new perk can be redeemed at one eligible attraction across Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure, from a defined list that includes rides like Space Mountain, Indiana Jones Adventure, Guardians of the Galaxy–Mission: BREAKOUT! and Incredicoaster. The benefit becomes available at check-in or shortly after 7 a.m. on arrival day and must be redeemed in-app.
Unlike Early Entry, this is a single-use benefit, not a daily advantage. Pixar Place Hotel guests will also lose their dedicated entrance to Disney California Adventure and will need to use the Grand Californian entrance instead.
Understanding those differences upfront can help Disney fans decide not just when to go, but where staying on property still delivers the most magic for their trip.
Related: The 10 Most Anticipated Theme Park Launches of 2026
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