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Dorothy Hamill was just 19 years old when she delivered one of the most iconic and beloved performances in Winter Olympics history at the 1976 Games in Innsbruck, Austria. Her legendary gold medal-winning performance made her an overnight sensation, quickly earning her the nickname "America's Sweetheart."

Hamill's Olympic performance inspired generations of young women both on and off the ice, not to mention creating one of the biggest hair trends in modern history. One of the most influential Olympic figure skaters of all time, Hamill's performance at the 1976 Winter Olympics remains one of the greatest ever.

How Dorothy Hamill Captivated the 1976 Winter Olympics

From the moment Dorothy Hamill seemingly floated onto the ice at the 1976 Winter Olympic Games in Innsbruck until she took her final bow following her gold medal-winning free skate, few stories captivated the world quite like the rise of the 19-year-old American.

Born in Chicago and raised in Connecticut, Hamill quickly became a fan favorite with her graceful free skate, performed to a medley of music from Errol Flynn films.

Having entered the 1976 Winter Games carrying enormous expectations after appearing on the cover of Time magazine, it was Hamill's grace, poise, and composure under pressure that turned her into an international star. Quickly dubbed a "skater's skater," she delivered a masterful performance that featured her signature "Hamill camel" spin and showcased the athleticism and artistry that defined her career.

Related: Olympic Skating Legend, Who Captivated Fans at the 1984 Winter Olympics, Names the Greatest Performance of His Career

The Olympic Performance That Sparked a Cultural Phenomenon

Hamill's Olympic performance was watched by millions of television viewers, but its influence extended far beyond the rink.

Known for her signature wedge haircut, Dorothy Hamill inspired generations of women and girls to ask for "the Dorothy Hamill" hairstyle—a short, layered cut that was longer in the front and bounced as she skated. The look became one of the defining fashion trends of the late 1970s.

A testament to her lasting influence, Hamill wasn't just a gold medal-winning Olympian. She became a rare athlete whose success transcended sports, shaping popular culture while helping fuel a boom in figure skating's popularity across the United States.

Why Dorothy Hamill Is Still Relevant Today

Now 69, Hamill remains closely connected to the figure skating world. She mentors young skaters, advocates for athlete mental health, and frequently serves as a trusted voice during Winter Olympics coverage, offering perspective on the sport's biggest moments.

Nearly 50 years after winning Olympic gold, Hamill's influence continues to be felt both on and off the ice. Her unforgettable performance remains a benchmark for excellence in figure skating, while her impact on American culture—from inspiring future champions to creating one of the most recognizable hairstyles of the decade—has ensured her legacy endures for new generations discovering her remarkable Olympic moment.

Related: Olympic Skating Legends, Who Captivated the World With 'Boléro' at the 1984 Winter Olympics, Honored by King Charles

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One of Nintendo's most-downloaded mobile games is nearing the finish line.

On Tuesday, July 8, Nintendo officially announced that the free-to-play racing game is shutting down for good, ending service on Sept. 30 after nearly seven years.

The servers go dark at 2 a.m. ET on Sept. 30 (11 p.m. PT on Sept. 29), and once they do, there is no way back in. Nintendo confirmed it has no plans for an offline version, so Mario Kart Tour will disappear entirely, including content players paid real money for over the years.

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What Happens to Your Rubies and Gold Pass

Nintendo has already started winding things down. It stopped selling the game's in-app currency, rubies, and its paid Gold Pass subscription on July 7. Players who still have an active Gold Pass can keep most of their benefits until service ends, minus the perks tied to an ongoing subscription, and anyone with leftover rubies can spend them right up until the shutdown.

Related: 1988 Arcade Classic, Ranked Among Best Video Games of All Time, Became a Timeless Hit

The End of a Record-Breaking Run

Mario Kart Tour launched in September 2019 and became Nintendo's biggest mobile launch ever, pulling in about 90 million downloads in its first week and passing 200 million by 2021. It let fans race as Mario, Luigi, Bowser and the rest of the roster on tracks based on real cities around the world. The game stopped getting new content back in October 2023 and had been running on recycled tours since, so the shutdown is not a total shock. Still, the confirmation stung for longtime players.

"Thank you for your support throughout the years," the official message wrote.

For fans who want one last lap, the clock is now ticking toward Sept. 30.

Next: Long-Awaited British Spy Franchise’s First Major Video Game in Over a Decade Launches to Rave Reviews

Suicidal Tendencies, the crossover metal band, announced the expansion of its highly anticipated 2026 U.S. tour.

Apart from festival runs, the five-piece band, composed of lead vocalist Mike Muir, lead guitarist Dean Pleasants, rhythm guitarist Ben Weinman, bassist Tye Trujillo and new member Xavier "X" Ware on drums, announced a new run of headlining shows across the U.S.

In an Instagram post, the band updated fans on its upcoming concerts scheduled this year. 

Fans will get to see Suicidal Tendencies headline one-night concerts in Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Michigan.

Joining them are pioneering hardcore band Cro-Mags and supergroup New World Man as special guests.

Brandon Pertzborn, Ty Trujillo, Mike Muir and Dean Pleasants of Suicidal Tendencies perform on stage at Wizink Center on May 21, 2022 in Madrid, Spain.

Aldara Zarraoa/Redferns

Tickets for the upcoming shows will go on sale on July 19 at 10 a.m. local time.

Aug. 30: Worcester, MA - The Palladium
Sept. 1: McKees Rocks, PA - Roxian Theatre
Sept. 2: Detroit, MI - Saint Andrew's Hall

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Currently, the band is keeping busy with festival appearances, a brief headlining run and support slots for high-profile rock acts.

Suicidal Tendencies had a successful U.K. and European run this June, performing at Copenhell in Denmark, Tons of Rock in Oslo, Norway, Jera On Air in the Netherlands, Vainstream Rockfest in Münster, Germany and Outbreak Fest in Manchester, United Kingdom.

The five-member band will remain on the road for the rest of the year, with shows scheduled from August through December.

Suicidal Tendencies' 2026 Tour Schedule:

Aug. 28, 2026: Scranton, PA
Aug. 29, 2026: Wantagh, NY
Aug. 30, 2026: Worcester, MA
Sep. 1, 2026: McKees Rocks, PA
Sep. 2, 2026: Detroit, MI
Sep. 4, 2026: Shakopee, MN
Sep. 6, 2026: Pryor, OK
Sep. 17, 2026: Louisville, KY
Oct. 4, 2026: Sacramento, CA
Nov. 19, 2026: Uncasville, CT
Dec. 5, 2026: Denver, CO

Suicidal Tendencies New Album Release Date and Latest Updates

Amid its packed 2026 schedule, the band has yet to release a new full-length album.

Muir previously revealed the band has been recording while continuing to work toward a potential new album sometime this year following the release of their 2025 single "Adrenaline Addict," their first in seven years.

During an interview with Australia's Wall of Sound, the frontman revealed that Suicidal Tendencies is seriously considering making a new album, but only when the time and purpose feel right.

“I wanna make a record like that, that someone, wherever they're at, whatever they're doing, when they hear it, they go, 'Whoa. What is this?'' And it sticks out,” Muir said, as translated by Blabbermouth, referring to Weinman's experience of first hearing the band when he was a teenager. “And the same thing with Jay. He's got a different perspective from the SUICIDAL thing and the way that he came into music and being introduced to SUICIDAL and then being in a band and having that understanding. I think it's kind of, like, going, well, if we do a new record, it's gonna be for the right reason. So we're always recording, but whether there will be a new record — I actually, at this point, think there probably will be next year."

While a new album appears to be on the horizon, the band's ongoing tour will keep fans occupied in the meantime.

Related: Iconic ‘80s Band Announced as Performers for Metal Festival 2026

Justin Baldoni has finally broken his silence, nearly two years after the release of his film It Ends With Us.

The Colleen Hoover novel-turned-feature film was the center of endless drama and court battles between Baldoni — who directed and starred in the film — and co-star Blake Lively.

"We have not spoken publicly for the better part of the last two years," Baldoni began in a video shared via Instagram on Wednesday, July 8. "And it's not because we haven't had anything to say. Because lord knows we have. But it just felt like every time we went to make a video like this, we wanted to speak, something was telling us not to. It just didn't feel like the right time."

Baldoni's wife, Emily Baldoni, who joined him in the video, went on to discribe the "injustice" and the "pain" they have felt over the last two years.

The Jane the Virgin star continued, "We don't even know if this is the right thing to say. We just know that we need to share something. What I will say is that there have been so many painful things that have been spoken into existence over the last couple of years. And that created so much noise. We didn't want to add to the noise."

"We just wanted to let the justice system run its course," he explained. "

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"We are healing. And if you've ever been through something traumatic, you know that healing isn't linear. It looks different every day. We have had to rethink for ourselves what is real. And what matters. It's our family. It's our friends. It's our community who have been there for us. It's our faith."

The actor went on to share his gratitude to fans who have publicly voiced their support over the past 18 months.

"We're here, in large part, because of so many of you," he shared.

Baldoni's statement comes just one month after his lengthy lawsuit against the Gossip Girl star came to an end.

Following the film's August 2024 release, rumors began circulating of a rift between the stars. After more than a year of back and forth in court amid allegations of sexual harassment, a smear campaign, defamation and breach of contract, a judge dismissed a majority of the claims in April.

Over the following two months, the legal teams hashed out the final allegations and settled the case. Baldoni was ordered to pay Lively's attorneys' fees.

Less than two years after departing Slipknot, Jay Weinberg is carving out an entirely different creative path.

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Modern Drummer’s three-time Metal Drummer of the Year has just released his latest single, “Drown Fountain,” a hazy, atmospheric track featuring Canadian grunge-gaze duo Softcult. It’s the latest team effort in his series of collaborations, led by the human metronome of mayhem.

Released earlier today, “Drown Fountain” is a departure for the drummer, whose trademark aggressive drumming gives way to distortion-heavy, yet ethereal guitar strums and dreamy, yet haunting vocals. The track also marks Weinberg’s vocal debut, with the multi-instrumentalist whispering lyrics and blending into twins Phoenix and Mercedes Arn-Horn’s ambient harmonies.

“‘Drown Fountain’ is this weird song I started writing back in 2013 that I’d keep revisiting over the years,” Weinberg said, via Blabbermouth, “but I could never figure out how to get it across the finish line.”

After stumbling upon the meditative sound of Softcult, he said the song finally came to fruition. He also admitted that the track is one of the most personal recordings he’s ever released.

“It’s an honor to work with them on this song,” he said, “especially because it feels more vulnerable than anything I've created in the past. I've never sung before; I've always had my loud drums to 'protect me' in a way. … It's all new and exciting territory, and having Mercedes and Phoenix help me bring it to life in this beautiful way has been an artistic dream.”

Along with the song, Weinberg released an official lyric visualizer (see above) featuring shifting artwork by Paul Romano, known for his work with Mastodon, Trivium, and other metal acts.  

"I've been an avid fan of Paul's work ever since I was in an Ozzfest mosh pit seeing this insane painting of Moby Dick (Romano's cover for Mastodon's Leviathan) raised up as a stage banner. Ever since then, I've been enamored with the worlds that he creates for the artists he works with."

“Drown Fountain” follows Weinberg’s other collaborations, including “Sandstone,” featuring George Clarke of Deafheaven, and “Drone Operator,” featuring Nowhere2Run, which includes members of Code Orange. Each track, he said, is tied to a color of the rainbow, and a way for him to tap into his roots while also stretching his range with friends in the biz.

"That's pretty much the spirit of this project anyway," he said, "not really starting a full-on new band with different groups of friends, where we all have busy creative lives and responsibilities filling our schedules … but rather a low-pressure, single-song way to make something that's eclectic and exciting, that creates a larger, dynamic picture altogether. I'm so stoked to see where it goes from here."

Beyond his latest collabs, the son of Max Weinberg, legendary longtime drummer for Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band, also performs with Fuming Mouth, whose next album, The Ringing Bell, is set for arrival next week, July 17.

Busy, busy.

Related: ’70s Heavy Metal Legends Debut at No. 1 With New Release

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You don't have to break the budget to curate a great wardrobe. In fact, retailers like Walmart, Nordstrom Rack, and JCPenney are amazing options for those looking for dependable clothing and footwear styles at low prices. JCPenney's shoe section is currently booming with highly-rated footwear like the Clarks Cloudsteppers Arla Daisy Wedge Sandals, which are 50% off now.

The sandals originally cost $75, but have been reduced to just $38 during a limited-time sale. The shoes are sold in navy and black colors, which is perfect for those in need of a minimalist hue that they can sport everyday. The available sizes range from 5 to 12, including half sizes, at a standard medium width. The style is marked to run large, so it's worth considering ordering a smaller size for best results. 

Clarks Cloudsteppers Arla Daisy Wedge Sandals, $38 (was $75) at JCPenney

Courtesy of JCPenney

Shop at JCPenney

The shoe design features a round toe, hook and loop tape closure that allows you to adjust it accordingly and a 1.5-inch wedge heel. The footwear is made of a fabric upper and lining with a thermoplastic rubber sole that's intended to provide slight traction so that you don't slip. The breathable insole has targeted cushioning that caters to your foot shape, prevents overheating, and provides all day support. 

Clarks Cloudsteppers Arla Daisy Wedge Sandals, $38 (was $75) at JCPenney

Courtesy of JCPenney

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These Clarks sandals are great for travel, as one shopper wrote that they're "sturdy but comfy for all day excursions, treacherous roads, and cobblestone streets in need of repair." Other customers described the shoe as "super cute," "extremely comfortable," "very well-made," "excellent," "stylish," and "very cushiony." 

Related: JCPenney’s ‘Super Soft’ Reversible Botanical Comforter Set Is the ‘Perfect Weight’ for Hot Sleepers and Nearly 50% Off

"I had back surgery and ankle surgery and need a knee replacement and Clarks are the only brand I find comfort in wearing," another reviewer wrote. Several shoppers additionally said that you can dress the sandals up or down, as you can wear them with casual jeans or fashionable skirts. Plus, since they're "lightweight," they're a great option to put in your suitcase. 

Shop More Deals

• East 5th Ravena Wedge Sandals, $34 (was $65) at JCPenney
• Clarks Cloudsteppers Breeze Opal Flip Flops, $28 (was $60) at JCPenney
• Clarks Cloudsteppers Drift Twist Wedge Sandals, $28 (was $60) at JCPenney

After you purchase these supportive Clarks sandals, you'll have the perfect seasonal shoe collection. You may even want to stock up on both colors while they're on sale. Add the sandals to your JCPenney cart, while they're 50% off! 

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Although Star Warswas officially sold to Disney in 2012, the franchise hasn't stopped being synonymous with creator George Lucas, and that's not just because Lucasfilm remains an integral part of Star Wars' present and future.

For decades, Lucas was the guiding force—pun intended—behind Star Wars, and even in the 14 years since he handed the reins over to the House of Mouse, fans have continued to see him as inseparable from the galaxy far, far away that he created.

However, that legacy and lingering presence hasn't directly translated to Lucas actually being involved on the big screen. In fact, the last time Lucas was both a director and a writer on a project was the final installment of the Star Wars prequel trilogy, Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith.

In the time since, in terms of feature films, Lucas has only worked on the animated prequel trilogy era movie Star Wars: The Clone Wars (his final official Star Wars project), as well as Red Tails, Strange Magic and Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, for which he served as executive producer.

This context only makes it all the more shocking and hilarious that Lucas just returned to movies in his first acting role in nearly 20 years in perhaps the most unexpected project imaginable: the brand-new Minions movie, Minions & Monsters.

That's right, the blue overalls-wearing, banana-demanding little yellow Minions are what finally brought the Star Wars creator back to the movie screen—and, surprisingly, the cameo is genuinely charming.

This new Minions movie is set primarily in 1920s Hollywood, and the whole movie centers on the film industry. For that reason, early in the movie, various major touchstones in cinema history are depicted. Among them, along with Keanu Reeves' Neo in The Matrix, was George Lucas. The legendary filmmaker wasn't just shown on screen, though; he also voiced the part.

It's a brief cameo, mainly consisting of a joke about Lucas being trapped in a museum, but notably, it's one that perfectly captures Lucas' appearance in animation. And after such a long hiatus, the return of George Lucas to the big screen was very welcome.

An Academy Award-winning sci-fi hit returns to movie theaters worldwide, marking the 35th anniversary of James Cameron's acclaimed sequel film. The restored Terminator 2: Judgment Dayunleashes Arnold Schwarzenegger just in time for the movie's fabled end of days.

Related: Arnold Schwarzenegger Is the Sweetest Grandpa With His Grandkids in New Family Photos

Tickets will soon be available for the limited theatrical engagement of the film from August 28 through September 2, 2026. Presented by StudioCanal, Rialto Pictures, and Fathom Events, the 4K redux is touted by director James Cameron in the official release, urging fans to see it in modern formats, including 3D. “T2 was made for theaters, and our lovingly-prepared 3D version, coming back to the big screen, is the absolute best way to see the film," the Avatarfranchise filmmaker touted.

He continued, "I believe it's safe to do spoilers after 35 years, so SPOILER ALERT: the good guys win against the AI superintelligence! And maybe that’s a message of hope we all could use this summer.” Cameron, of course, is referencing the film's victory against the machines, in particular the liquid-metal T-1000 (Robert Patrick), led by Sarah Connor (Linda Hamilton), John Connor (Ed Furlong), and their Terminator protector (Schwarzenegger). As CBR stated, it is considered by some to be the "greatest action movie of all time."

Related: James Cameron Reveals What Sparked His Blockbuster Career

Here's a rundown of important Terminator 2: Judgment Day worldwide release dates for its 35th anniversary theatrical re-release:

• August 27, 2026 - Germany, Latin America, and the Czech Republic
• August 28, 2026 - United States of America, Italy and Poland
• August 29, 2026 - The Terminator 2 in-universe date for Judgement Day
• September 2, 2026 - France
• September 3, 2026 - Australia, new Zealand, Netherlands, Sweden and Hungary
• September 4, 2026 - The United Kingdom

Ray Nutt, the chief executive officer of Fathom Entertainment, said of their special engagement, “Terminator 2: Judgment Day was a cultural phenomenon in the U.S. upon release and 35 years later, remains a timeless, non-stop thrill ride that audiences – new and old - will love to see."

Here's a look at the special retro poster release for the cinematic celebration:

StudioCanal

StudioCanal

Tickets go on sale July 17, 2026, and for more information, visit here.

Martin Scorsese's daughter Francesca is opening up about a time her dad caught wind of criticism she was receiving online.

Chatting on the most recent episode of the Zach Sang Show, Francesca, an actress and director herself, got to talking about her dad's fierce reaction to internet trolls who were bashing her. Specifically, the incident was sparked from when she starred in a Chanel ad that he was directing. In behind-the-scenes footage, that ultimately turned into a viral video, Francesca was next to the commercial's star, Timothée Chalametfor a scene where he accidentally got hit with the camera while filming.

"That video went viral and I was in it," she recalled. "I was also like very overweight, I was almost over 200 pounds, and I was just not happy with myself. I remember being on that set crying to my dad, and I was like, 'I don't even want to do this.'

And it was at that moment that a Raging Bull of sorts came out of the famed director.

"He was like, 'F--- them, f--- them, who cares? Literally, who cares?'" she recalled. "'Don't look at these dumb people,' like 'They're just losers and lame and sad, they are sad, sad, sad people.'"

"I'll never forget, he was pissed," she added. "He really wasn't fully aware of all of the comments that I was getting and the attention that I was getting on social media, and how much of social media can just be a cesspool of like nasty, nasty sh--."

Related: Martin Scorsese’s Daughter Claps Back at ‘A Cesspool of Disgusting Comments and Negativity’

Francesca, 26, who is no stranger to dealing with online criticism — she said she's "gotten it for years" — also addressed a TikTok that she posted in response to what she referred to as "some of the worst comments I have ever seen about me."

"I did let [them] affect me, and yeah, I was just really upset," she said of the comments she received. "So I just made a stupid little video, I was like, 'People will either watch it or just click away. I don't really care.' I just want to, like, give my two cents."

While those close to her told to delete it and to expect backlash she said, "I really got the opposite. I got a lot of support."

The famed daughter was recently cast in second season of Prime Video's Mr. and Mrs. Smith. She also directed Fish Out of Water, a short film inspired by her mother's early onset Parkinson's diagnosis.

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If you are a DIY lover, you know the struggle of keeping all of your arts and crafts supplies organized. From paint brushes and colored pencils to washi tape and yarn, there are plenty of items to organize for all of your creative projects. This is why it's so important to have good storage systems in place to make it much easier to navigate your DIY essentials.

Luckily, you do not have to break the bank in order to keep it all together. Stores like Five Below offer affordable organizational solutions that make keeping your space tidy a total breeze. Take, for example, this new $5 six-compartment organizer available right now. It is a DIY lover's dream come true.

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Art Supplies Storage Organizer White, $5 at Five Below

Five Below

Five Below's Art Supplies Storage Organizer comes in a sleek storage solution for your DIY staples. It has six cube compartments, a drawer and two shelves where you can store all of your arts and crafts tools. The six cubbies are removable, so you can easily slide them out when it's time to use the products.

Related: Dolly Parton's New 2-Piece Cotton Kitchen Towel Set Is 'Just About Too Pretty to Use'

These cubes are particularly great for storing items such as paint brushes, colored pencils, markers and pens. The drawer is the perfect spot to keep similar items corralled. Bulkier items like rolls of tape, erasers and pencil sharpeners would be perfect to keep on either shelf. You could also opt to keep your most-used supplies there to make them easy to grab. It's totally up to you and your specific needs.

This storage organizer is perfect to keep on your desk or wherever you do your creative pursuits. It won't take up too much room and will keep everything sorted and easy to find so you can spend more mental energy on your DIYs rather than trying to find the perfect paintbrush.

You can find this arts supplies storage organizer in select Five Below stores or on Five Below's website. It retails for $5. It is available in two colors, either white or pink, giving you options. You can check in-store availability by entering your ZIP code at fivebelow.com. If ordering online, you can expect it to arrive within five to seven business days.

Related: Aldi's Vibrant New Kitchen Rug Is Giving Rifle Paper Co. Vibes for Less

Popular actor and musician Dennis Quaid may have a noticeable southern drawl, but the truth is he's been a long-time California resident.

Like many celebrities impacted by the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires, they became just another face in the crowd as they gathered their belongings only to sit in a sea of headlights to get out of dodge, whether it be Malibu, Pacific Palisades, or the Hollywood Hills.

Dennis was kind enough to speak with local news outlet KNBC amidst the chaos, which ultimately went viral on socials as he expressed shock, sorrow and fear of flying embers, saying he was ready to "put a hose on a roof" as if he were channeling his Frequency character in real life.

Seeming disheveled, he swiftly packed his sedan full of valuables — in a trash bag, no less — to evacuate his Brentwood home. Fast forward just over a year and a half, let's just say don't expect to see the famous Parent Trap dad in line any time soon, forking over $19 for an Erewhon smoothie.

Dennis Quaid Confirms California Exodus

Getty Images

Per SFGate, Dennis put the kibosh on ever coming back to the "Golden State" — as a resident anyway.

He didn't mince words either. As many reports have said key reservoirs were empty as residents were forced to battle flames themselves, the Texas-born entertainer stated L.A. "used to be such a great town and the ’90s was nice." Further adding, "it’s been kind of going downhill and I feel like people pay these taxes for no services is what it gets down to."

While he did keep one of L.A.'s most sought-after zip codes, he's actually been living a quiet life in Tennessee with his wife, Laura Savoie, since 2020, though he did endorse former reality TV star Spencer Pratt for L.A. mayor.

Quaid's 5-bedroom Brentwood mansion is now on the market for a whopping $5.2 million as he says goodbye to L.A. for good. Reflecting on the city, he said he hopes it "comes back," adding that it "used to be such a fantastic town."

Nearly 46 years since its release, AC/DC’s album Back in Black was just named the No. 1 album of the 1980s by Ultimate Classic Rock.

Back in Black was AC/DC’s first album after the death of the band’s frontman, Bon Scott, who passed from acute alcohol poisoning. He led the band in their classic Highway to Hell album, and Murray Engleheart recalled that AC/DC were on track “to be one of the biggest acts on the planet.”

"The next album was going to be the one that was really going to kick them over the goal posts,” Engleheart, author of AC/DC Maximum Rock and Roll, said.

However, Scott’s friends began to notice a change in his state of mind, ABC reported. He began drinking more, which ultimately led to his tragic death.

"Bon's passing as he did, on his own, in a car in the freezing cold, after all his hard work and all his heartbreak getting there, was just an incredibly sad, lonely and unglamorous way to go out," Engleheart said.

When it was announced that Brian Johnson would be replacing Scott, fans began to wonder if AC/DC could continue their momentum. They did with Back in Black.

“Johnson arrived with a dangerous rasp and a cool cap amid their reliable lyrical mix of sex and excess,” Ultimate Classic Rock wrote. “AC/DC somehow reached still greater heights.”

In an interview with AXS TV, Johnson recalled that joining the band was “beautifully scary.”

“It was scary,” Johnson said. “I was 32 years old. I thought, ‘What am I doing here?’”

Despite his fear, Back in Black went on to enter the Grammy Hall of Fame and has been certified Platinum 27 times by the RIAA. Since they formed 53 years ago, the band has sold over 200 million records worldwide, and they continue to climb the charts today.

Find Ultimate Classic Rock’s top 100 albums of the ‘80s here.

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Refreshing your dining space doesn’t always require a full kitchen makeover. Sometimes, a simple swap like upgrading your everyday dinnerware is all it takes to make meals feel a little more special — whether you’re setting the table for a quiet weeknight dinner or or hosting guests.

Right now, shoppers are loving Walmart’s latest flash deal on the Vesteel Stoneware Plate Set, which is marked down to just $22 (down from $38). The stoneware plates feature a charming speckled design and glossy glazed finish that gives them a handcrafted, high-end look. Shoppers are impressed, with one calling the set “lovely” and another saying the plates are “very pretty and durable.”

6-Piece Vesteel Stoneware Plate Set From $22 (was $38) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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The Vesteel Dinner Plates Set includes six 7.9-inch round stoneware plates. It’s a practical option for everyday meals, dinner parties, or anyone looking to refresh their tableware on a budget. 

Crafted from premium natural clay and high-quality glazed stoneware, the plates are designed to be scratch and chip-resistant. They’re fired at high temperatures to create a lead-free, non-toxic finish, so shoppers don’t have to worry about harmful substances leaching into their food. Plus, they’re microwave-safe, dishwasher-safe, and freezer-safe.

The plates are available in five colors, including brown, light green, light grey, black, and white, giving shoppers plenty of options to find a style that feels right for their kitchen. While most shades are on sale for $22, the white and brown options are slightly more at $23. That’s still a bargain for six plates made from stoneware, a material that has grown increasingly trendy in 2026 due to its durability and luxe look. 

At this affordable sale price, you can easily grab multiple sets and mix and match colors to create a table setting that feels more personal. Whether each family member has their own plate color or you like changing up your table decor for different occasions, the variety of shades makes it easy to create a look that’s uniquely yours. 

Shop More Deals

• Dolly Parton Jeweled Mosaic Tray, $24 at Walmart
• Fzbctldz 12-Inch Round Decorative Tray, $22 (was $26) at Walmart
• Vesteel Large Stoneware Bowls 4-Piece Set, From $27 (was $43) at Walmart

Related: Stoneware Dishes Are So on Trend in 2026, and Amazon Has an ‘Elegant’ 12-Piece Set for Over 40% Off

With its charming speckled design, durable stoneware construction, and $22 price tag, the Vesteel Stoneware Plate Set is a stylish way to upgrade your table. Don’t wait too long to grab one, as this Walmart flash deal is on for a limited time only!

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Love Island USASeason 8 is winding down to the most important fan vote. Which couple will get the chance to split $100,000 or person who will take the entire prize home alone? Here is when the final episode will stream on Peacock.

'Love Island USA' Season 8 Ends on July 12 Bryce Dettloff and Trinity Tatum on 'Love Island USA' Season 8

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There are 35 episodes in season 8, according to IMDb. Sunday, July 12 at 9 p.m. ET will premiere the finale and reveal the final ranking of couples based on fan votes.

Four couples go into the finale episode. Each couple has a final date to reflect on their time together on the island. It's also the last chance for them to take a new step in their relationship unless they say something in their final speech.

The couples write kind words to each other in front of the rest of the cast in their finale formal wear. Host Ariana Madix joins the cast to reveal the ranking, starting with fourth.

Madix, 41, gives an envelope to the man and woman of the first place couple. Only one envelope has the money. The person who has the $100,000 decides to keep the money for themselves or split it with their partner.

Related: ‘Love Island USA’: Gabriel Reveals if He’ll Date Beatriz Outside the Villa

Who Are the Strongest 4 'Love Island USA' Couples? Aniya Harvey and Carl Lee Schmidt on 'Love Island USA'

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The islanders are aware that no one is going to explore outside their couple after movie night. Melanie Moreno and Sincere Rhea had the biggest set back that night because his lies were revealed. He told Sol Dean that he was ready to choose her. Sincere also told Amora Robinson if they had more time in Casa Amor, then he would've chosen her.

Melanie is one of the most popular cast members as an original islander. She'll probably make it to finale with Sincere, but not win because of his actions.

KC Chandler matched with Tierra "Titi" Davis in Casa Amor. They shockingly didn't fall into the bottom karaoke test episode. But it's unlikely they'll surpass Zach Georgiou and Kayda Bosse again since they have been coupled up since the first week.

Mackenzie "Kenzie" Annis is also an original islander, but will likely fall to the bottom of the vote. She was at risk in the karaoke contest episode with Dylan Wrona, but they saved themselves by winning the contest.

Dylan told Kenzie that he doesn't trust her after watching her movie night clips and she kissed Gal Tshnieder. They are one of the newest couples and most of their time is spent arguing.

That leaves Aniya Harvey and Carl Lee Schmidt, and Trinity Tatum and Bryce Dettloff as the strongest couples. Public opinion could change when it's time for the finale. But the other couples have work to do to get in the top two spots.

Related: Who Is ‘Love Island USA’s Carl Lee Schmidt? Everything to Know About the Casa Amor Bombshell

Back in the summer of 1969, a psychological drama caused such a stir that it faced censorship battles, international controversy, and one of Hollywood’s most stigmatized kisses of death: an X rating. The film is Midnight Cowboy, and despite receiving that restrictive rating, it rode into the sunset as the year’s biggest cinematic triumph.

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A gritty and unvarnished take on male prostitution, drug use, and the underground scene in New York City, John Schlesinger’s film was adapted from James Leo Herlihy’s 1965 novel of the same name, with Waldo Salt writing the screenplay. It stars Jon Voight as a naive hustler from Texas, and Dustin Hoffman as his con-man buddy and roommate. The two anchor the film, showcasing the harsh realities of urban life, loneliness, and living hand to mouth.

Beyond the stellar cast and crew, the film features an incredible soundtrack. A compilation of folk-rock, pop, and original melancholic music, it was widely praised for capturing the mood of the late 1960s. It was also a massive commercial hit, peaking at No. 6 on the Billboard 200, achieving RIAA gold certification, and producing a Top 10 hit with Harry Nilsson’s "Everybody's Talkin’."

“Exploring the myth of the American dream, Midnight Cowboy is an essential text, telling a familiar story that sees a plucky young man journey from the country to the city seeking opportunity, only to be dismantled by its pace and brutal reality,” Far Out wrote of the film. “Worthy to be considered as one of the many excellent films that deconstruct the national dream, Schlesinger’s classic remains a pertinent piece of filmmaking that defies the stereotype of its X-rating.”

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the film initially received an R rating from the MPAA, but its studio, United Artists, appealed and pushed for an X rating rather than release the film with what executives felt was an inaccurate classification.

Though the film is pretty mild by today’s standards, at the time its portrayal of sex, drugs, and homosexuality was considered too provocative for mass audiences. Once some of the cast members got wind of the X rating, they thought their acting careers were kaput.

“We said, ‘We have big problems’ when we heard we got an X rating,” Hoffman told Larry King in 1994, “and we thought this could end everybody’s career. As a matter of fact, I was talked into doing a movie I wished I hadn’t done, because they had me so frightened that I had buried myself and reversed whatever good The Graduate did.”

The movie he’s referring to is John and Mary, a romantic drama co-starring Mia Farrow. Hoffman said his agent forced him into it to prove he was a “respectable person.” But even though Hoffman had his doubts, his co-star felt the opposite. In fact, Voight told Esquire in 2013 that he was positive they had an instant classic on their hands.

“The moment [Schlesinger] finished [the film], he was shaking,” Voight said, explaining how the director was having second thoughts about the film. “All of a sudden, he saw it as banal and vulgar. He’s having an anxiety attack, and I grabbed his shoulders to shake him out of it. I said, ‘John, we will live the rest of our artistic lives in the shadow of this great masterpiece.’”

The actor might have just been trying to calm his helmer down at the moment, but his premonition came true the following year, when Midnight Cowboy took home three of the seven Academy Awards it was nominated for. Winning Best Writing, Best Director, and BestPicture, the film revolutionized cinema, proving a rating is no match for great storytelling.

Nearly six decades later, it remains the only film to accomplish such a feat.  

Midnight Cowboy is streaming for free on Tubi.

Related: 1996 Film That Inspired One of Alternative Rock’s Most Haunting Ballads Became a Cult Classic

When former mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt posted a photo on Instagram earlier this week of himself, two mystery adults, and a little boy meeting with President Donald Trump in the Oval Office, everyone assumed that the child was his son. Now the reality TV star is confirming the theory, sharing more pics from his Washington, D.C. trip on X… and fans are divided.

On Wednesday morning, Pratt posted a photo of eight-year-old Gunner hanging in the Oval Office. And sure, the snapshot is certainly sweet. But that’s not what really sparked a backlash. Pratt also wrote, “You must love your country the way you love your child. Unconditional love. You make sure they play by the rules.”

The dad (he shares Gunner and three-year-old Ryker with wife Heidi Montag) continued, “But no matter what, you love them with your whole heart, you make up every day thinking about how to be of service to them, and you would die to protect them.” Cue the controversy.

You must love your country the way you love your child. Unconditional love. You make sure they play by the rules. But no matter what, you love them with your whole heart, you wake up every day thinking about how to be of service to them, and you would die to protect them. pic.twitter.com/wiU3xECRwR

— Spencer Pratt (@spencerpratt) July 8, 2026

Of course, the statement (like most of Pratt’s actions) seems like it’s meant to grab the public’s attention. And if that’s the case here, all we can say is mission accomplished! 

One X user commented on the post, “But parents also know when to discipline their children so they grow into good adults. Where is the same thing done for the country? Maybe the two shouldn’t be treated the same way after all,” and others said, “Absolutely not. Only a child has the innocence and potential to receive unconditional love” and, “Goal of turning One’s Child into a Political Trope is so Republican 2026.” 

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But the sea of social media skeptics weren’t the only ones posting on X. Others praised Pratt, his politics, and his parenting, replying to the photo with comments such as, “That boy looks so much like you! What a wonderful experience for him to be by your side”, “You and your family were born to do great things. Keep fighting”, “Imagine a world where that was true for every child! Parenting and patriotism two of the most impactful choices that can be made,” and “Your son is adorable. You are teaching him to fight for what matters. Love it.”

What’s next for Pratt and his family? While he won't be the next mayor of Los Angeles, the former The Hills star is currently working on the WAR Foundation—a movement he claims will: “Win the war against political corruption with innovative new media.” 

Six years ago today, on July 8, Glee star Naya Rivera died in a boating accident at Lake Piru in California.

Rivera was just 33 when she drowned on a boat trip on Lake Piru in Ventura County, while out with her 4-year-old son, Josey Hollis Dorsey.

She was declared missing after she failed to return from a boating excursion near her California home. Shortly after, they discovered her rental boat wit her unharmed son inside wearing a lifejacket.

After a search, Rivera was formally presumed dead. Her body was recovered on July 13 and she was pronounced dead from drowining. Her body was found on the seven year anniversary of the death of her co-star Cory Monteith.

According to the BBC, Ventura County Sheriff Bill Ayub suggested the lake's currents could have caused difficulties but she died saving her son's life. "The idea perhaps being that the boat started drifting - it was unanchored - and that she mustered enough energy to get her son back onto the boat, but not enough to save herself," he said.

Speaking to People, he parner Ryan Dorset said that "the last thing she said was his [her son's] name, and then she went under, and he didn't see her anymore".

"Something he's said over and over is that he was trying to find a life raft, and there was a rope, but there was a big spider on the rope, and he was too scared to throw it," Dorsey added in the heartbreaking interview from after her ultimely death.

Naya started her career as an actress and model before landing her big break playing Santana Lopez in Glee.

During her time on Glee, Rivera won a Screen Actors Guild Award and an ALMA Award. She also shared a nomination for a Grammy Award and Brit Award with her co-stars.

How Naya Rivera's Son Remember His Late Mother View this post on Instagram

Josey, was found safely asleep inside a life jacket aboard the drifting rental boat, with his mother saving his life during the accident. Dorsey believes the actress and singer is proudly “smiling down” on their son.

“He’s been taking piano lessons for a little over a year now, and he’s getting pretty good. It’s the one thing I connected with his mom,” he told Page Six on the anniversary of her tragic death.

He added: "I said, ‘Your mom — she’s always listening. … You don’t understand now, but one day when you’re an adult or maybe even a teenager, you’re going to thank me. You’re never going to quit as long as you’re living with me.'"

The duo keep the actress’ memory alive by having a“Mommy Garden” in their yard. “There’s roses and flowers and all these things that come back every year,” Dorsey explained to Page Six. “And [Josey] waters it when it needs to be watered and kind of takes care of that. It kind of looks like a wishing well. So we put that up for her.”

Perhaps a simple song on the surface, but George Jones’ country classic “He Stopped Loving Her Today” has gone on to become one of the genre’s major achievements. Over the years, the tune has topped numerous rankings, earning widespread recognition as the ‘Greatest Country Song of All Time.’  

One list, published byForbes in 2025, ranked the tune at No. 1 on the ‘Top 30 Country Songs of All Time,’ coming in ahead of songs like Patsy Cline’s “Crazy,” Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You,” and Lefty Frizzell’s “Long Black Veil.” 

Written by Bobby Braddock and Curly Putnam Jr., “He Stopped Loving Her Today” unveils the heartbreaking story of a man and his deep devotion to a particular love interest. Though the man’s relationship has ended and the person he loves fails to reciprocate the same feelings as he does, he makes a promise to remain committed to her in hopes she’ll one day return to him. 

The male character in “He Stopped Loving Her Today” hangs on to old memories in the form of letters and photographs from a time when he was romantically involved with his love interest, but things take a tragic turn when listeners are led to believe that, instead of moving on from the former relationship, as the title suggests, the man instead only stops loving the woman when he passes away.

A heartbreaking turn, indeed, but Jones’ subtle yet expressive vocal delivery over the gentle arrangement of piano and strings complemented the song’s narrative so much that it went on to win many awards, including a Grammy, and has become Jones’ most beloved signature hit. 

Released on April 14, 1980, as the lead single from Jones’ I Am What I Am album (the song also appears on Jones’ 2005 collection Hits I Missed…And One I Didn’t), “He Stopped Loving Her Today” served as Jones’ first No. 1 hit single in six years, ultimately reviving the singer’s career. The song not only topped the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, but appeared on the chart for 19 weeks. 

Jones, the beloved “Possum,” whose career spanned five decades, died on April 26, 2013, due to hypoxic respiratory failure. He was 81. In the days following the country legend’s passing, “He Stopped Loving Her Today” re-entered the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, where it rose to the No. 21 spot. 

Related: Country Music Star Announces Plans to Take a Break From Touring Following 10 Years on the Road

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Sometimes all you need is a small piece of jewelry to make an outfit feel more styled, and Anthropologie has a dainty option on sale right now. The brand’s Crystal Tennis Necklace is marked down to just $30 from $48, with a gold crystal design that can make even a simple top or dress feel more pulled together. It comes in one size, and the dangling teardrop stones give it a dressier look than a single-strand tennis necklace.

It’s made with gold-plated brass, cubic zirconia, and imitation rhodium. It has a convenient lobster clasp, a 16-inch length, and a 2-inch extender, so there’s room to adjust where it sits. The extender is especially helpful if you want to layer it with longer chains or slightly change the length depending on your neckline.

Crystal Tennis Necklace, $30 (was $48) at Anthropologie

Courtesy of Anthropologie

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This necklace is super practical if you like jewelry that can be worn alone or layered. The 16-inch length sits close enough to the collarbone to show above many different necklines, while the crystal strand and teardrop stones give it enough sparkle to wear with a simple dress or tank top.

One shopper who purchased the necklace in silver mentioned that it was smaller than expected but still called it “dainty” and said, “It looks like the real thing.” “I can wear it with so many outfits,” they added, noting that “it can be layered easily” with other jewelry.

Related: Nordstrom Rack's 'Fantastic' $100 3-Piece Gold Necklace Set Is Great for Layering and on Sale for $27

This necklace is the perfect middle ground between an everyday chain and a statement design. The teardrop stones add plenty of sparkle for dinner plans or dressier tops, while the shorter length and dainty size keep it wearable during the day, making it a much better fit for repeat wear than an oversized or heavily embellished piece.

Shop More Deals

• Corded Crystal Carabiner Necklace, $30 (was $48) at Anthropologie
• Soloist Crystal Mixed Chain Necklace, $30 (was $54) at Anthropologie
• Icon Post Earrings: Floral Edition, $20 (was $28) at Anthropologie

If you’ve been looking for new accessories to add to your summer jewelry rotation, this gold-plated Anthropologie find is a pretty pick that’s sparkly yet easy to wear. Be sure to add the Crystal Tennis Necklace to your cart while it’s still in stock and marked down to just $30.

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In 1997, the world was humming along to Hanson’s “MMMBop,” watching Ross and Rachel’s will-they-won’t-they saga unfold, and dodging Blockbuster Video commercials as if they were overdue rental fees. Then Bob Carlisle took over radio and music television like Michael Jordan in a Bulls playoff game.

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Released in April 1997, “Butterfly Kisses” wasted no time becoming a smash. A genre-defying ballad, it centers on sentimentality and a father’s love, tracing the rapid passage of time and emotional journey of raising a daughter from early childhood to saying "I do," all while blending soft rock, pop, and Christian music.

Say what you will about the saccharine nature of the bittersweet ballad, but people simply could not get enough “Butterfly Kisses.” Whether it’s the autobiographical nature of the song, co-written by Carlisle as a gift for his daughter on her sweet 16 birthday, or the fusion of a sweeping, piano-driven melody, an emotional crescendo, and soaring vocals, it resonated deeply with millions of music fans.

According to Billboard, “Butterfly Kisses” wasted no time ascending to the top of the mountain, hitting No. 1 on the adult contemporary chart just 3 weeks after its release and becoming one of the fastest non-holiday songs to achieve the feat. The track also catapulted its parent album to No. 1 on the Billboard 200, a monumental accomplishment as the world's first Christian album to top the chart.

“It’s thought that American Christian and Gospel music generates over $1.4 billion annually, with an extra billion or so around the rest of the world,” Far Out shared. The numbers are massive, yet Contemporary Christian Music struggles to find mainstream audiences. Despite rock legend Bob Dylan and country icon Johnny Cash wading into holy waters, CCM had largely remained a novelty.

That is, until "Butterfly Kisses" spread its wings.

Over on the Radio Songs/Hot 100 Airplay and Hot Country Songs charts, the song reached Nos. 13 and 45, respectively. Billboard doesn’t mention any chart action on the national Hot 100 because the track was released as a limited-edition single, not meeting the physical requirements for inclusion in the survey.

Not that it mattered: The song’s crossover success into mainstream pop and country radio led to a re-release of the album, which then went double platinum.

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Further, Carlisle won a Grammy for Best Country Song and three Gospel Music AssociationDove Awards, including Song of the Year. It’s a wild turn of crossover events for a contemporary Christian artist whose first two albums—Bob Carlisle (1993) and The Hope of a Man (1994)—established his tender, soul-influenced CCM sound but achieved only modest commercial success.

Today, the soft-rock anthem has become a beloved father-daughter dance song at weddings--Lainey Wilson even two-stepped to the classic with her father at her own wedding a few weeks ago--as well as an ode to fatherhood and a cultural touchstone that, sure, is overused and kitschy, but no doubt remains a clear statement of unconditional love.

Related: 1963 No. 1 Duet, Which Gave a ’70s Rock Band Its Name, Became an Era-Defining Classic