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Shawn Johnson is finding herself at the center of an unexpected parenting debate after sharing a candid video with her young son, Bear. What she likely intended as a sweet family moment quickly turned into a spirited discussion, with social media users weighing in on whether the affectionate interaction was perfectly normal or crossed a line.

"What a smooch!! Hahahaha this guy came outta nowhere!!" Johnson captioned an Instagram video of her youngest son sitting on her lap while the two were on a boat. As Bear sat propped up on his mom's lap, he planted several kisses on her lips. Johnson and her husband, Andrew East, couldn't help but laugh as Bear showed his mom affection, but something else unfolded in the comments section.

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"My son used to do this and we would make an mmmm sound that increases in pitch and ended with mwaah! Loudly when it broke apart. So sweet!!!!" one mom wrote.

"It’s that age! They are so in love with their mommas. By 5 mine was back to the cheek. Enjoy every minute with your babies it goes quick!" another supportive comment read.

"Pecks are one thing… Only Dad should be kissing mom like that," a third comment read. This particular comment received more than 10,000 likes.

"This is weird. One little peck ok but this is a lot," another fan said.

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For now, Johnson appears content to let the conversation play out on its own. While commenters continue debating the moment, the video remains on her Instagram page, with plenty of Instagram users weighing in from both sides. Whether viewers found the interaction heartwarming or uncomfortable, the post has clearly struck a chord with parents across social media.

READ NEXT: Fans Send Prayers to ‘Dirty Dancing’ Star Amid Heartbreaking Personal Loss

Fine Young Cannibals released the song “Good Thing” in 1989. The song, which rose all the way to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, was from their second album, The Raw & The Cooked. The album won Best British Album at the Brit Awards in 1990.

The song was originally used in the movie, Tin Men, which was set in the 1960s, so it had an older sound. In the film’s production notes, director Barry Levinson said, "The sound of The Fine Young Cannibals has a sparseness to it, and reminds me very much of the uncluttered music of the early '60s. It's somewhat of a basic sound, yet it has an unusual kind of richness in combining modern rhythms with traditional soul music."

Fine Young Cannibals had a previous number one hit with their song, “She Drives Me Crazy," and reached No. 11 with “Don’t Look Back," which was also included on their second album. However, after “Good Thing” hit number one, they never had another top-charting hit again. The band broke up a few years later, in 1992.

When asked about the breakup in an interview with Classic Pop, frontman Roland Gift said, “I don’t know what the point would be to reform. You can never say never, but nobody’s ever made an offer that couldn’t be refused. I’m open-minded, but I don’t think it’s likely.”

He also explained exactly what led to the breakup. “We’d been working at Olympic Studios in Barnes, and later that evening, the three of us turned up at this screening room to see a Bertolucci film, Stealing Beauty. Earlier in the day, we all knew we were going to the screening, but I didn’t mention it to David [Steele] and Andy [Cox], and they didn’t mention it to me either. So when we all showed up, I just thought, ‘Oh, f--- this, this is pathetic.’ It wasn’t a very nice work environment when you’d previously been in a situation where you’d share stuff, and now we’re being really cagey with each other.”

Related: 1973 No. 1 Hit by ‘The 5th Beatle’ Became a Timeless Dance Song

He continued, “I don’t think any of us ever wanted to be in one of those bands where you turn up in your own limo. If we’d have been more experienced, we’d have probably been able to get through that for the sake of keeping the show on the road. In some ways, I think it’s good we didn’t, but in others, maybe there’s something to be said for toughing it out. But we did what we did. We came out of it okay. None of us had to see the repo man come for the Maserati.”

Although the band parted ways, they returned to the studio to record new music for their greatest hits compilation in 1996.

Bo Derek really thought about the prospect of having children before deciding to remain childfree.

The 10 actress, 69, appeared on Bill Maher’s Club Random podcast, speaking candidly about how societal expectations surrounding motherhood initially shaped her thoughts about having kids.

"Everyone says you’re going to have kids," she explained on the Monday, July 6, episode. "When I hit about 32, I thought, 'Uh-oh, I better start working on this and scheduling it.'"

At the time, Derek was married to first husband John Derek, whom she was with until his death in 1998. The director was nearly 30 years older than his wife and had children from a previous marriage, making the decision even clearer for the Tommy Boy actress.

"I kept waiting for my life to slow down. It never slowed down," Derek said. "He didn’t want kids. He’d had two kids from a previous marriage. He was older, so he’d done it."

She continued, "When I thought I wanted it, then I really started sitting down to scheduling and I thought, I’m not mother material. My husband certainly isn’t father material. He was the most judgmental oddball."

Derek said that in the end, she made the decision not to have children, comparing the care she took with the choice to the thought she puts into adopting a dog.

"I think I spend more time when I decide to have a dog, a new dog, than most people do when they have a kid," the animal activist confessed.

Derek is now happily retired from her life in Hollywood, telling Maher that she always felt that her life in the limelight was a bit of a "fluke," as she never had any movie star aspirations.

"It's very strange. People don't understand it," Derek explained of her decision to walk away from fame. "You know that expression: they would kill to do it, to be famous, to be in movies, and not for some of us."

The late 1970s was a golden era for music, but one unforgettable week in 1977 belonged entirely to a single voice.

Long before streaming and social media changed how we measure musical success, Linda Ronstadt accomplished a historic chart feat. She did the near-impossible: capturing two separate spots in the Top 5 at the exact same time, a rare moment of pure chart dominance.

"Blue Bayou" reached No. 3 on the Billboard charts in December 1977. The Roy Orbison and Joe Melson-written song was first recorded in 1963. Ronstadt first learned of the song during a late-night brainstorming session.

American Songwriter reprinted her statements from a 1977 Circus Magazine article. She explained, “J.D. Souther and Glenn [Frey] simultaneously suggested [the song] to me sorta like Twiddle Dee and Twiddle Dum."

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"We sat up all night talking like mice at incredible speeds, playing and singing half the song we knew, all of us singing in different keys. I’ve got a tape of it, and it’s the fastest tape I’ve ever heard. It sounds like [Star Wars character] R2D2.”

The song, from her LP Simple Dreams, competed with another of Ronstadt's hits from the same album, "It's So Easy." Both songs were in the Top 5 during December 1977, with "It's So Easy" securely in the No. 5 position while "Blue Bayou" held tight at No. 3.

This chart feat allowed Ronstadt to reach a milestone of being the first female solo artist to have two songs in the Top 5 simultaneously. She was the second artist, behind The Beatles, to achieve this feat.

In a 2017 interview with Pop Matters, Ronstadt revealed the song was originally set to be a duet. Instead, she used Don Henley and Kenny Edwards as backing vocalists.

“Originally, I was going to do it with J.D. as a duet,” she revealed. “J.D. must not have been available that night, so I had to get Don to substitute.”

For her vocals, Ronstadt said her inspiration came from Mexican vocalist Lola Beltrán. “She was the main influence on my singing,” she told Pop Matters. “Mexican music does that sort of belting thing and then goes into falsetto like I did at the end of the song."

Decades later, looking back at Linda Ronstadt's incredible week on the charts makes you realize just how massive a force she really was in the music world. It's a reminder that while pop culture trends come and go, a truly great voice never really goes out of style.

Related: 1977 Country-Pop Ballad, Named One of the Greatest of All Time, Became a Tearjerker by Accident

Kameron Marlowe, the country star dubbed as “one of our greatest living country singers” achieved another major milestone this year.

Apart from his ongoing tour, the 29-year-old has landed his first Billboard Hot 100 hit.

According to the renowned music publication, Marlowe made his debut on the Billboard Hot 100 with his single “No Need for Leavin'” at No. 99.

The Billboard post sparked a wave of heartfelt reactions and congratulatory messages from fellow musicians and fans.

“Long overdue! You’re the man!” country singer Trey Lewis wrote.

The same was true of prominent tour photographer and videographer Landon Bonneville, who said, “Longggg overdue! Congrats man!”

The singer’s wife, Meagan Marlowe, couldn't hide her pride, commenting, “My eyes are leaking. So proud of you @kameronmarlowe .”

Kameron Marlowe and wife Meagan Marlowe attend the 59th Annual CMA Awards.

Tibrina Hobson/FilmMagic

Fans also echoed the same sentiment, with one writing, “FINALLYY. Y’all have been SLEEPING on Kameron! It’s his year!!”

“THE MOST DESERVING,” a follower added.

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The “Giving You Up” hitmaker took to social media to thank fans and supporters for helping turn a dream he had since his teenage years into reality.

“No need for leaving is Number 99 on the Billboard Top 100. From the bottom of my heart, I cannot say thank you enough. This has been a dream of mine since I was 15 figuring out I even wanted to make music I owe everything to you all for listening to my songs and keeping me going truly I can’t do it without you,” he said in a post shared on Facebook.

Earlier this year, Kameron Marlowe released “No Need for Leavin',” a slow-burning track about heartbreak.

The former The Voice contestant revealed that the song was about a relationship on the verge of falling apart. However,  one person chooses to fight for love instead of walking away.

“This one isn’t about begging for someone to stay,” he said, as cited by MNPR Magazine. “It’s about that moment when you know things are slipping away and you decide you’re not done fighting yet.”

The musician’s latest achievement comes amid his extensive 2026 tour.

His Kameron Marlowe Live On Tour, which kicked off in mid-January in Mexico, wrapped up its spring headlining run from January through May across the U.S.

Currently, he is scheduled for a slate of summer festival appearances through August.

Later this year, the North Carolina native will join Ella Langley for her Dandelion Tour as one of the supporting acts alongside Dylan Marlowe, Kaitlin Butts, Gabriella Rose, Laci Kaye Booth and ERNEST.

Related: Country Music Star, With Best-Selling '90s Song, Involved in First-Ever Move

Harry Styles ended his record-breaking Wembley Stadium residency on a high note—and with one very relatable wardrobe malfunction. As the Grammy winner dropped to his knees during the emotional final moments of "As It Was," the last song of his historic 12-show run, he glanced down and realized his fly was down. So he quickly zipped up before the internet immortalized the moment.

The blink-and-you'll-miss-it mishap instantly became a viral talking point, with fans joking that the singer had nearly given more than 90,000 concertgoers "a free view of [his] premium package."

While some fans cracked predictable size jokes, others found it stranger that anyone was scrutinizing the fleeting wardrobe malfunction at all.

But the accidental reveal came at the end of a landmark night for Styles, who became the first artist ever to perform a 12-night residency at Wembley Stadium, surpassing the previous record of 10 shows set by Coldplay in 2025.

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The wardrobe malfunction was a small blip in the show that had some fans calling it "One of the best stadium gigs I have ever been to."

When Styles left the stage, he was clearly overcome with emotion as fans leaned into the moment. "Harry getting emotional and walking off stage at Wembley Stadium after his record-breaking 11th show in London, UK - 3 July," one person wrote on X, along with a video of Styles walking offstage before his final show.

Another person shared how glorious the show was, especially the finale. "How are we supposed to recover after Harry performed Sweet Creature on the final night at Wembley???" they wrote on Threads.

Fans also couldn't help but point out the timing. Just hours before closing out his Wembley residency, Styles performed "Two Ghosts"—a song widely believed to be about ex Taylor Swift—on the same day he was invited to her wedding. While his fiancée, Zoë Kravitz, attended the ceremony, Styles stayed in London to complete his record-breaking 12-show run.

Bijou Phillips shared a positive health update, revealing that she has undergone a kidney transplant.

"I am beyond, beyond grateful to everyone who rushed in to help me, get checked to donate, you are all [heroes]!” Phillips wrote on Instagram on Tuesday, July 7. “My wonderful brother donated in the kidney exchange! He saved a life, and the life he saved had a special person donate for them, and then a few weeks later! The voucher program found me a perfect match! So close it’s like I got the kidney from one of my parents!”

Along with the note, Phillips shared a selfie of herself in the hospital.

This comes after the actress revealed in February that she was hospitalized due to complications from her 2017 kidney transplant, having to be put back on dialysis after one of her kidneys failed. Phillips made a public plea, asking for help finding a kidney donor, asking as a "friend, a sister, an aunt, and, most importantly, a single mother to an incredible and brave daughter."

And in the end, it was her brother who was able to donate through the kidney exchange program, which allows a living donor to donate their organ to another person in exchange for a compatible kidney for a family member.

"I am so blow away by Dr Veale and the magic he does! The kidney exchange, voucher program, and his surgical skills!!!," she added in her Instagram post. "Thank you UCLA! And all the amazing drs and coordinators and nurses and everybody there has been so wonderful and amazing. Thank you so much!!!! @uclahealth love you Aron! Thank you the most! 🥰🙏🏼"

Phillips shares her daughter, Fianna, with her ex-husband, Danny Masterson, who was sentenced to 30 years in prison after being convicted of two counts of forcible rape in 2023. The actress filed for divorce just days after he was convicted following 12 years of marriage.

Jennifer Grey, best known for her role as Frances "Baby" Houseman in the 1987 film Dirty Dancing, is mourning the loss of her mother, Jo Wilder, who died on July 4, 2026.

In a candid Instagram post, Grey said that her mom died "by her own choosing, on her own terms, exactly as she lived" at the age of 94.

"A week earlier, she learned she had lung cancer. True to who she was, she chose grace over fear, understanding that leaving this world with dignity is an honor, not a tragedy," Grey continued. She went on to pay tribute to her "gorgeous and talented" mother, praising her for choosing to be a mom rather than pursuing a career.

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"Her passion found other outlets: she was a lifelong activist, fiercely attuned to right and wrong. And for years, many people discovered her extraordinary eye through Wilder Place, her store on Melrose," Grey wrote, adding, "She was brave and deep. I love you, Mom. Thank you for showing me how to do it all, even this, with grace."

The comments section of the post quickly filled with prayers and messages of love and support from Grey's friends and fans alike.

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"Sending love to you and your family. What a special woman she was. May her memory be a blessing," one person wrote.

"Jen, my heartfelt condolences. What a beautiful tribute to your mom. May her memory be a blessing. Sending you light and love," someone else said.

Grey has posted about her mom on social media from time to time over the years. In May 2024, for example, she posted a throwback photo of her alongside her mom in honor of Mother's Day.

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Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce got married on July 3 with Adam Sandler officiating. Countless celebrities attended the event, from Selena Gomez to Tom Hanks to Paul McCartney. However, some celebrities have revealed they turned down her invitation, like James Taylor, who was scheduled to perform on that day, and Ryan Seacrest, who had to cancel his RSVP after Disney hired him to do the Fourth of July 250 special.

An NBA legend recently revealed that he also skipped the wedding after receiving an invite—but it wasn’t because he had any other activities scheduled. Charles Barkley simply turned down the opportunity because he wasn’t interested, he revealed during Unfiltered With Ricky Bo & Bill Colarulo this week.

Related: An Important Man in Taylor Swift’s Life Died on Her Wedding Day

“I don’t go to weddings and funerals,” the NBA star said, as reported by Entertainment Weekly. “I did get an invite, and I did politely decline. Because I thought it was gonna be a crap show.”

He continued to explain why he wasn’t interested in the Madison Square Garden event. “That’s just too much,” he said. “I just wanna hang out and play golf, and I don’t wanna dress up and all that other stuff. But I appreciate the invitation; it was pretty special.”

During the conversation, Barkley admitted that he had only met Swift once. However, he appeared on Kelce’s “New Heights” podcast, and Kelce has appeared on Barkley’s podcast. During their conversation in 2023, they spoke about what it’s like to play in Philadelphia.  

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Barkley said, "Philadelphia is a great, great city. I loved playing there, but it's not for everybody. Everybody can't play in Philly. We had this guy who would get two quick fouls to start the game every game. I'm like, 'Yo man, what is your damn problem? Why do you get two fouls every game?' He says, 'Man, I can't take the crowd screaming at me... They leave me alone when I go to the beach.' I was mad, and I felt bad, because I understood."

He continued, "And the one thing I will say, as long as you play hard, they're cool. I never had an issue in Philadelphia because they know I am going to give you everything I had every single night."

If you've been keeping tabs on the Orlando theme park scene lately, you already know that Disney's Hollywood Studios is currently having a massive cultural moment.

For years, it was often brushed off as a transition park—a place you could easily finish in half a day. But thanks to the frenzy surrounding the new Muppet Coasters attraction and the recent, high-tech overhaul of Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and more updates on the way, theme park insiders and influencers have officially crowned it the ultimate "All Bangers" park. It's the one gate where practically every single ride is a massive, must-do headliner.

The only downside to a park with zero filler rides? The daytime standby lines are notoriously brutal, often requiring you to spend your vacation aggressively managing digital queues and checking wait times on your phone.

But if you're planning a late-summer trip to the mouse house, Walt Disney World just dropped a surprise schedule change that is about to become your ultimate secret weapon.

Related: Disney Just Revealed Its Fall 2026 Lineup—And The Magic Starts Sooner Than You Think

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According to the newly posted park hours, Disney is shifting its coveted Extended Evening Hours benefit directly to Disney's Hollywood Studios on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. This perk—which allows select guests to stay in the park for hours after it completely closes to the general public—almost always belongs to Magic Kingdom on Wednesday nights. However, because Magic Kingdom's calendar is getting packed out by Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party nights this fall, Hollywood Studios is stepping into the late-night spotlight.

For savvy travelers, this is a total jackpot. Having the keys to Hollywood Studios at night means you can bypass the blazing Florida sun and experience the park's heaviest hitters with virtually non-existent wait times.

According to WDWMagic.com, the official late-night operating list includes everything from the high-speed launches of Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring the Muppets and the drops of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, to family favorites like Slinky Dog Dash, Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway, and Toy Story Mania!. Plus, wandering through Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge to hit Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run under the stars is a completely different, deeply immersive experience compared to fighting the midday crowds.

Related: How Disney World Quietly Overhauls Iconic Rides Overnight—And What's Next.

The catch? This late-night after-hours access isn't open to everyone. To get past the touchpoints after regular park closing, you have to be a registered guest staying at a Disney Deluxe Resort, a Disney Deluxe Villa Resort, or select partner hotels like the Walt Disney World Swan, Dolphin, and Swan Reserve.

Whether you're already packing your bags or just strategically mapping out the best way to conquer Disney's most popular rides, keeping an eye on these fall calendar shifts is the absolute best way to ensure your vacation is all highlights, zero lines.

Related: 15 Free Things You Can Do at Walt Disney World Without Entering the Parks

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If you’re a Dolly Parton fan — or shopping for one — this $24 Walmart tray is a sweet little find that brings charm wherever it’s placed. It works just as well styled on your own table as it does as for gifting on special occasions.

Right now, the Dolly Parton Jeweled Mosaic Tray is available for just $24 at Walmart, which is a great price for piece made from durable, long-lasting stoneware. It measures 13 by 9 inches and features Parton’s signature butterfly motif in a shimmering jeweled mosaic design. It also includes one of her most-quoted lyrics from her 2014 song Try: “Dreams are of no value if they’re not equipped with wings.” 

Dolly Parton Jeweled Mosaic Tray, $24 at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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The star of this platter is the design. The blue mosaic pattern features glittery butterflies that bring sparkle wherever it’s placed  — whether that's a kitchen counter, a console table, or a dinner party spread. 

With Parton’s popular song lyric etched into the tray, it’s an inspiring gift for weddings, birthdays, and fans of the country icon. One shopper shared, “Lovely plate to give to my daughter with the quote from Dolly.” Another said they bought it for their daughter's wedding, and it "was more beautiful than expected.”

Beyond gifting, it’s just as practical for everyday use. Bring it out for charcuterie boards and movie night snacks, or even use it on a vanity to corral jewelry and perfume bottles. It’s also dishwasher safe, which makes cleanup easy after entertaining.

If you’re looking to build a matching set, the Dolly Parton collection at Walmart also includes a Dolly Parton Jeweled Mosaic 12-inch Sharing Plate for $25.

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• Fzbctldz 12-Inch Round Decorative Tray, $22 (was $26) at Walmart
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• Better Homes & Gardens Rectangle Two-Tier Wood Serving Tray, $17 at Walmart

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

For anyone whose tablescape could use a little sparkle, the Dolly Parton Jeweled Mosaic Tray is an easy pick for just $24. Head to Walmart to grab one while it’s still in stock. 

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Apparently, everyone is talking to Mitch McConnell these days—including Andy Cohen and Lisa Rinna.

The Bravolebrities joined the internet's latest viral meme after Senate Republican Whip John Barrasso's spokesperson said Barrasso had a "20-minute" phone call with the Kentucky senator. The claim came as online speculation continued about McConnell's health following unverified reports circulating on social media, prompting users to imagine increasingly absurd conversations with the longtime Republican leader.

While Barrasso said the pair discussed national defense spending, Rinna joked that McConnell had more pressing matters on his mind. "Mitch McConnell just called me and asked if my lips were real," TheReal Housewives of Beverly Hills alum quipped on Threads.

Not to be outdone, Cohen, who is gearing up for The Real Housewives of Orange County's milestone 20th season, wrote, "Mitch McConnell called me for scoop on RHOC season 20. Coincidentally, we talked for TWENTY minutes!"

Responses were just as funny as Cohen's Thread. "Did he ask you to get Ramona on the phone so they could celebrate 'Turtle Time'?" one person replied. Another added, "i heard Mitch McConnell misses RHOM" in a hint to Cohen to take The Real Housewives of Miamioff pause.

Some Bravo fans even claimed to have gotten exclusive Housewives insights from the senator. "I just talked to Mitch McConnell for about 20 minutes. We talked about Real Housewives of Rhode Island, he thinks Rulla is crazy and said he supports term limits and age limits," one user joked.

Naturally, someone also dusted off one of Bravo's most enduring memes, repurposing Erika Jayne's infamous explanation for husband Tom Girardi's erratic behavior during his legal scandal: "i spoke to mitch mcconnell for 20 minutes and he said tom's house was broken into and he confronted the burglar and then had to go have eye surgery, and his son had to go over and then his son he rolled his car five times on the way home so yeah he's under a lot of stress."

And, inevitably, Weekend at Bernie's comparisons began flooding social media as the meme took on a life of its own.

As a light sleeper who's struggled with her fair share of insomnia, I've always believed that nothing compares to a good night's rest in your own bed. But with the rise in sleep tourism in recent years, I've been thrilled to see many hotels stepping up their sleep game and revamping their rooms to help guests clock in some quality shuteye.

To be fair, I don't spend much time in my hotel room while traveling, especially since I tend to plan packed itineraries. But during a recent 10-day trip to Europe, I found myself appreciating the value of a well-designed bedroom that expedites your journey to la la land.

On the last leg of my trip, I checked into Canopy by Hilton Paris Eiffel Tower. As an avid Francophile, I was psyched to take in the stunning Eiffel Tower views from my room and the hotel's rooftop (spoiler alert: they're worth the hype). I was exhausted after visiting two other countries before arriving in France, yet I didn't really have sleep on my mind. But after walking 25,000 steps on my first day in Paris, I returned to my room and was relieved to sink into the sumptuous bed.

The room's sleek, sleep-friendly design got me thinking that I might want to give my own bedroom a makeover to capture the same tranquil-meets-luxurious vibe, so I reached out to Hilton's design and wellness pros to get some tips for designing a bed that'll give you the best sleep of your life.

1. Don't Overdo It

Photo by Allen Boguslavsky on Unsplash

Decorative pillows are cute and all, but the nightly ritual of removing them from your bed and finding somewhere to store them isn't exactly relaxing. When it comes to creating a sleep oasis, less is more.

"The best rooms feel inviting and effortless, helping people relax almost instantly. To recreate this at home, start with a clean, uncluttered bed setup and avoid over-styling the space. Hotel rooms often feel more calming because the bed looks simple, polished and thoughtfully layered," Amanda Al-Masri, Hilton's Global Vice President of Wellness, says.

2. Define Your Bed With Spatial Cues

Photo by Katie Puzatova on Unsplash

Thinking outside the box and focusing on unique design details can make a major difference while creating a luxurious bedroom.

"Subtle spatial cues, like a canopy, alcove, framed headboard or layered materials around the bed can help create a greater sense of comfort and definition within the room," Nick Solomon, Hilton's Global Head of Design, Lifestyle Brands, says.

For instance, many of Hilton's Canopy boutique hotels are known for using canopies to "define the sleeping area within the room" and reinforce the focus on "thoughtfully zoned, restorative spaces."

While selecting a bed frame, Solomon recommends looking for designs that "balance structure and softness while creating a sense of retreat."

"That doesn’t necessarily mean traditional drapery. It can take the form of an architectural frame, sculpted headboard or layered detailing that anchors the room," Solomon says.

3. Choose Natural Materials for Your Bedding

Photo by byMATTER MADE BETTER on Unsplash

With guests checking in and out of rooms every day, luxury hotel beds get a lot of traffic. Yet, the bedding always seems to be up for the job.

Solomon says high-quality cotton and polyester blend sheets are the key since they "offer a soft hand feel, breathability and durability." Additionally, a premium down-and-feather duvet insert is another great option to keep you cool during the summer months and warm during the winter.

Al-Masri calls high-quality linens "a must," but notes that you don't have to break the bank to upgrade your bedding.

"Quality doesn’t always have to mean luxury and high price tags," she says. "Natural, breathable fibers are always a good idea when it comes to bedding."

Above all, durability and consistency are critical.

"Sheets and pillows should hold their shape and softness over time," Al-Masri says.

4. Use Multiple Varieties of Pillows

Photo by Franco Debartolo on Unsplash

Everyone has their own pillow preference (personally, I prefer a side pillow), but luxury hotels do a good job of creating a universally appealing pillow setup for every type of sleeper.

To recreate that same vibe at home, Solomon suggests using two down-and-feather soft pillows and two synthetic firm pillows (or any mix of soft and firm pillows) to create a "welcoming sleep environment for stomach, back and side sleepers."

Related: Woman Transforms Apartment Into ‘Boutique Hotel’ With an Easy Fix

5. Consider Your Firmness Preference While Selecting a Mattress

Photo by Francesca Tosolini on Unsplash

Mattresses are known for providing a solid foundation to a supportive bed. Since every guest is different, luxury hotels specifically design their beds to account for a variety of sleepers and firmness preferences.

At home, we all have the luxury of playing favorites and selecting a high-quality mattress that suits our specific needs.

"Spend time learning your mattress and pillow preferences and do your research to ensure selections line up with how you sleep best," Al-Masri says.

Bonus Tip: Design a Calm Sleep Area

Photo by Collov Home Design on Unsplash

Your bed is the most important element of your bedroom, but you should also create an environment that's conducive to relaxation.

"Warm lighting, tactile finishes and a subdued palette all contribute to an atmosphere that feels inviting, relaxed and thoughtfully composed. The overall goal is to create a space that feels personal, intuitive and restorative," Solomon says.

If you're looking to recreate that zen feeling you get while staying in a luxury hotel, Solomon recommends prioritizing "tactile, refined materials."

Integrated features like lighting or shelving can also "enhance both function and comfort, supporting rest and relaxation," he says.

Al-Masri says there are several "crucial variables" that matter while creating a peaceful sleep oasis.

"It needs to be quiet, dark and the right temperature (usually cool), and you need to feel comfortable in the sleep environment," she says.

Sources:

• Amanda Al-Masri, Hilton's Global Vice President of Wellness
• Nick Solomon, Hilton's Global Head of Design, Lifestyle Brands

Related: Want To Sleep Better? This Is the Best Time of Day To Take Magnesium, Experts Say

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Easy, breezy staples are an essential in any summer closet. On sweltering days that could take you anywhere from backyard barbecues to the beach, it’s important to have pieces you feel comfortable subjecting to sweat, sand, sun, and physical activity. Amazon's Lomon Tank Top is a great budget-friendly pick for anyone looking to stock up on summer basics.. 

Usually $18, this top now starts at just $10 for a limited time. Shoppers raved that it's "perfect" for easy summer dressing, and it’s easy to see why. In a sea of basics,  the Lomon Tank Top strikes the perfect balance between style and comfort. The classic crew neck and sleeveless design are universally flattering, while the soft, stretchy blend of 60% polyester, 35% rayon, and 5% spandex delivers a cloud-like feel with every wear. The subtle button detail at the front adds a little extra charm, making this tank anything but ordinary.

Lomon Button Tank Top, From $10 (was $18) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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Available in a playful array of 26 colors and patterns, including stripes, florals, and bold solids, this tank is easy to mix, match, and style. Pair it with denim shorts for a picnic, tuck it into a skirt for brunch, or simply throw it on over leggings for a day of errands. Its loose, flowy silhouette is forgiving and cool, making it perfect for long, sunny days or layering under a cardigan when the evenings get a little breezy.

Related: Swarovski's 'Dainty' and 'Stunning' $119 Drop Earrings Are Just $70 at Amazon

One shopper noted that it’s “nice enough to wear to work, but also great when you dress down.”

Another shopper called it a “perfect summer tank,” adding: "The colors are really fun and look great on every skin tone. I've worn it with khaki shorts, olive capris and baggy retro jeans."

Lomon Button Tank Top, From $10 (was $18) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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Available in sizes small to 3XL, this shirt is machine washable and holds up beautifully to frequent wear. Many reviewers noted that it “washes well” and retains its “vivid” colors.

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This $10 Amazon tank top is one of those rare finds that manages to be cute, comfy, and endlessly wearable. Whether you're packing for vacation, updating your basics, or just want something that feels like summer, grab this while it's on sale.

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When a 1968 low-budget exploitation film was nominated for an Academy Award, nobody took it seriously. That underestimation turned out to be a big mistake.

Wild in the Streets was made fast and cheap by a studio that specialized in beach movies and biker flicks. Critic Pauline Kael called it "blatantly crummy-looking." Roger Ebert saw it in 1968 and wrote that "the fascist potential of pop music becomes inescapable." He wasn't wrong back then either.

The film stars Christopher Jones as Max Frost, a pop star who uses his fame and a loyal army of fans to grab political power. When a senator asks him to help bring out the youth vote, Max agrees, then goes completely off-script at a televised concert and proposes something nobody saw coming.

Things escalate quickly from there.

The cast nobody saw coming: Richard Pryor plays the man who spikes DC's water supply with LSD. The scene where it happens, resulting in a Congress full of hopelessly tripped-out senators, is exactly as crazy as it sounds. Barry Williams, two years before he became Greg Brady on The Brady Bunch, plays the teenage version of the villain.

The film was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Film Editing in 1969. Not Best Picture. Not Best Screenplay. Film Editing. For a beach-movie studio's quickie exploitation flick. And it's currently streaming free on Tubi.

Everyone has made the Idiocracy comparison by now. It's an easy one. Mike Judge's 2006 film imagines a future where the entire population becomes too stupid to function, and the parallels to recent political history have been hard to miss. But Idiocracy gets something fundamentally wrong, or at least incomplete. The problem it describes is stupidity. The people in it can't help their behavior. They don't know any better.

Wild in the Streets is about something completely different. Nobody in this film is ‘stupid’. Max Frost is completely aware of what he's doing. His supporters aren't dumb at all, they're just being played. Politicians who try to manage him discover pretty quickly that they can't. "I can handle him," one senator insists, with the confidence of someone who absolutely cannot handle him.

The Details Don't Need Much Explanation

Max's campaign slogan is "Down with experience!" He goes off-script at public events. His rallies send shockwaves through the political establishment. Politicians who refuse to deal with him get publicly vilified. Those who do a deal with him immediately regret it.

His girlfriend joins Congress, where she delivers a speech on the House floor that's nothing but her boss's talking points, delivered with glassy-eyed precision while wearing a low-cut dress and a gold-trimmed pirate hat. Max conducts his War Council by a pool. His State of the Union address contains the line: "You give me the tools. You give me the laws. Give. Me. The power!!!!"

Everyone over the age of 35 eventually gets rounded up and placed in detention facilities.

The film gets some things wrong, of course. Max Frost is 22, his inner circle are teenagers and the whole thing teeters on complete absurdity more than once. But exploitation movies aren't required to be accurate. They're just required to be urgent. This one still is.

Draw your own conclusions.

Related: 1981 Synth Classic, Almost Abandoned Before Release, Turns 45 on a Bittersweet Final Tour

The film ends with a plot twist worth knowing about. Max, now in his mid-twenties, gets confronted by a group of kids who've decided that everyone over the age of ten years old is next on the list.

Wild in the Streets was made in 1968, one of the craziest years in American history. Vietnam, the draft, civil rights, the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy, the baby boomer generation coming of age. The filmmakers were trying to cash in on those anxieties for a quick box office return.

They had no idea that what they were making was something that would outlast their own moment entirely.

It's 97 minutes of awesome, and it's been sitting there, waiting to be rediscovered, since 1968.

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Behind every great country music tearjerker lies a story, but few carry the emotional weight of a certain 1990 classic.

Long before the track became a staple on radio stations and ranked among the saddest songs of all time, it existed only as a quiet pact between then-fledgling country superstar Garth Brooks and songwriter Tony Arata. It was during this period of uncertainty that a simple promise between them altered the trajectory of their careers.

Arata told the story of how writing "The Dance" changed his life, and Brooks' forever. He shared the tale on his official website.

"I met the gentleman who cut it at an open-mic songwriter’s show at Douglas Corner. Garth and [ex-wife] Sandy had moved from Oklahoma about the same time Jaymi and I came up from Georgia. We were both doing whatever we could to stay in Nashville, trying to get our songs heard by anybody," he began.

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"The only folks listening, however, were other songwriters, as no one else was usually at our shows. And so it was at one of those nights at The Bluebird Café, Garth heard this one and swore if he ever got a record deal, he was going to do it. Well, he did, and I will always be grateful," Arata concluded.

Arata told The Tennessean he was inspired to write "The Dance" after seeing the 1986 film Peggy Sue Got Married, starring Kathleen Turner and Nicolas Cage. The film's Peggy Sue Bodell fainted and fell into a coma-like state at her 25th high school reunion, where she traveled back in time to her high school years.

Knowing how unhappy her marriage would become, Peggy Sue was determined to change her future. She turned down a date with her future husband, Charlie, only to realize that one choice could alter the entire course of her life, including the existence of the children she loves most.

"The Dance" was ranked at No. 19 on a list of the saddest country songs of all time by Taste of Country. Arata wrote the song in 1986, Brooks recorded it in 1989, and it went to No. 1 on the Billboard Country Chart in 1990.

Brooks would go on to include "The Dance" on several of his greatest hits albums, including The Hits in 1994 and The Ultimate Hits in 2007, and his Anthology, Part I.

The song celebrates the 36th anniversary of its climb to the top of the country charts on July 14, 2026. Luke Combs, Westlife, and Kelly Clarkson have covered it.

Garth Brooks announced his "Blame It All On My Roots Arena Tour" on July 7. It kicks off August 21-22 in Indianapolis at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

Related: Legendary Music Icon Surprises Fans With a Jaw-Dropping Announcement 30 Years in the Making

Travel + Leisure is touting one of America's most iconic islands as summer's "it" destination — but its major moment in the spotlight likely isn't what you think. Sure, it boasts more than 80 miles of pristine coastline and long-held acclaim as a retreat of choice for A-listers, where you never know who you'll come across.

It could be Dave Portnoy reviewing your favorite slice or a movie star grabbing coffee a few tables over, but the island's latest buzz comes from somewhere else this summer, and it all starts in your living room.

Nantucket was just ranked as the third best island in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure readers as part of the annual World’s Best Awards.

So, besides a plethora of fun-filled festivals packing the calendar, and obligatory seafood spreads, what's the next major draw this summer?

Peacock's New Must-Watch: The Five-Star Weekend

Those who fell in love with The White Lotus flocked to the Thai island of Koh Samui for a piece of the action they saw on HBO each week. While Season 4 is currently filming in France, there's a new luxurious destination to jet-set to the film set a lot closer to home: always-charming Nantucket.

Peacock is launching what's expected to be a huge hit, The Five-Star Weekend, starring Golden Globe winner Jennifer Garner and the ageless Regina Hall, based on the bestselling novel sharing the same name by Elin Hilderbrand about a grieving food influencer who reunites friends from various chapters of her life for an unforgettable weekend on Nantucket.

According to the Cape Cod Times, these Nantucket spots are set to appear in the series when it premieres on July 9:

• Nantucket Boat Basin
• Cru Oyster Bar
• Bartlett's Farm
• The Chicken Box
• Hatch's Package Store
• TownPool

Make Your Own Five-Star Weekend

There's no denying Nantucket is bougie.

As such, Travel + Leisure rattled off seven ritzy hotels to call home for your next island life splurge so you can vacay in style like your favorite celeb:

1. White Elephant Nantucket
2. The Wauwinet
3. Nantucket Resort Collection
4. 21 Broad
5. Nantucket Inn
6. Nantucket Hotel & Resort
7. Faraway Nantucket

It’s hard to think of a more haunting goodbye song than “Lady D'Arbanville."

Written by Yusuf/ Cat Stevens for his 1970 album, Mona Bone Jakon, the soft rock classic was a real-life goodbye to the singer-songwriter’s former girlfriend, Patti D’Arbanville. The somber acoustic guitar ballad featured a soft, folk-rock arrangement and lyrics about grieving the end of a relationship as though mourning a death.

Stevens’ official website confirmed that the song’s “mournful narrative, in which a lover grieves for the death of the eponymous Lady D’Arbanville, is a metaphor for the end of the relationship between Cat and the American model-actress Patti D’Arbanville.”

While “Lady D’Arbanville” was not a chart hit in the U.S., it went to No. 8 in the UK and remains an important piece in Stevens’ musical history—and one of his most mesmerizing songs more than 55 years later.

The song was inspired when Stevens and D’Arbanville ended their nearly two-year romance as her modeling career took off in the late 1960s. After Stevens wrote “Lady D’Arbanville,” the singer called his former love and played the song to her over the phone.

“I cried when I heard it, because that’s when I knew it was over for good.” D’Arbanville once said of the relationship, according to Stevens’ website.

D’Arbanville also once described Stevens’ goodbye ballad to her as “sad.”

“Look, Steven wrote that song when I left for New York,” she told Interview magazine in 1973. “I left for a month, it wasn't the end of the world, was it? But he wrote this whole song about 'Lady D'Arbanville, why do you sleep so still.' It's about me dead. So while I was in New York, for him it was like I was lying in a coffin... he wrote that because he missed me, because he was down... It's a sad song.”

RELATED: 1974 No. 1 Hit Named Among the ‘Saddest Songs of All Time’ Became Heartbreakingly True

In 2012, the model and actress opened up about being immortalized in song. (Stevens also  penned his classic “Wild World” in D’Arbanville’s honor.)

“I quite like 'Wild World', but 'Lady D’Arbanville' is about me – dead,” she said in an interview posted by Money Into Light. “I found that weird. I got a lot of publicity and interview requests from that song, but it was odd, because I didn't have much to do with it, apart from supplying the name. The period when I was with Steven was a bittersweet time. I was sorry to hurt him. But he fell on his feet. He was a sweetheart. I haven't spoken to him in years."

D’Arbanville actually did have a bit more to do with the song than just supplying a name. According to Rolling Stone, she appeared in a rare video for the song—one of the earliest music videos of all time—that resurfaced 50 years later.

The eerie video features Stevens and  D’Arbanville in a Gothic English mansion, although they don’t interact and she appears as a ghostly vision.

Stevens has said that his wife, Fauzia Mubarak Ali, whom he married in 1979, was not a fan of “Lady D’Arbanville"— so much so that he changed the song to appease her.

“My wife's a very possessive and jealous lady,” he told The Sunday Times in 2009, per Songfacts. “She hates 'Lady D'Arbanville,' so I changed it for her. I wrote a song called 'Angel of War,' based on the melody.”

Related: 1973’s Last No. 1 Hit Song Has a Heartbreaking Backstory

Is there anything better than biting into a perfectly crispy French fry that’s delightfully fluffy on the inside? Not having to leave the house to get it. Ore-Ida fans have been begging the brand to bring back one of its beloved offerings, and now, after years of requests and a national petition, their pleas have been answered. 

Related: Burger King Doubles Down on Iconic Sandwich With 2 New Versions

Crispers! (yes, the name includes an exclamation mark) are returning to freezer aisles in select regions permanently just in time for National French Fry Day on July 10. “Crispers! feature a signature crispy exterior and fluffy interior, offering a unique texture experience that’s unlike any other Ore-Ida fry while still delivering the brand’s quintessential taste,” the brand told Parade.

Ore-Ida Crispers! return to stores after fan petition.

Ore-Ida

This comes on the heels of a Change.org petition that garnered 1,837 signatures begging Ore-Ida “to reinstate the beloved golden crispers French fries.” Petition starter Al Sloan issued an urgent request for the fries, writing, “Ever since my childhood, the unique taste and texture of Ore-Ida Crispers, later renamed Golden Crispers, have been synonymous with comfort, nostalgia, and excellence in my kitchen. They weren't just my personal favorite French fries; they were a frozen legend that held special memories for countless households.”

Related: KFC Competitor Named ‘Best Fried Chicken in America’ Announces First-of-Its-Kind Dish Nationwide

The petition continued, sharing that “as an integral part of our meals and memories, it was heartbreaking to see the sudden discontinuation of Ore-Ida's Golden Crispers. They have been a preferred choice in kitchens for decades, adding a touch of crunch and comfort to countless occasions and meals. Their absence has left a void that no substitute can quite fill.” 

“We couldn't ignore the overwhelming demand from fans to bring Crispers! back, largely because of what makes the product so special – a signature crispy exterior and unique, fluffy inside texture. We’re very excited to welcome Crispers! back to the Ore-Ida lineup and give fans another way to enjoy Ore-Ida potatoes,”  Alonso Zorrilla Yep, Brand Manager, Ore-Ida, told Parade in a statement. 

Next: Coca-Cola’s New One-Of-A-Kind Flavor Is Super Exclusive–Here’s How To Get It

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Packing for vacation isn’t always easy, especially if you plan on only bringing a carry-on. Luckily, with the right pair of sandals, you don’t need any other footwear, creating more space for all your chic summer outfits. Comfy and supportive without sacrificing style, these Burudani Flip-Flop Sandals at Walmart are a fantastic choice. 

Ready for sightseeing, lazing on the beach, and everything in between, these sandals are all you need for your upcoming summer travels. Right now, you can score them on sale for a whopping 63% off. Normally retailing for either $39 or $40, these flip-flop sandals are now marked down to just $15 for a limited time with a flash deal.

Burudani Flip-Flop Sandals, $15 (were $40) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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These sandals are available in eight styles, including some with knit mesh straps and others with faux leather straps. You can choose from beige, black, blush, gray, and navy. Sizes range from 6 to 11, and shoppers noted that they fit true to size.

Crafted with comfort at the forefront, these flip-flops will cushion your feet and make every step feel as effortless as the last. The midsoles are made of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), which is a lightweight and cushy material that’ll cradle your feet. EVA is also great at absorbing impact, reducing the pressure on your feet and joints for a pain-free walking experience. 

These flip-flops are strategically molded to support the contours of your feet. With lifted arches and heel cups, they even out the pressure to prevent fatigue and pain. Shoppers with high arches and arthritis attested to this, mentioning that these sandals are very comfortable for their feet.

Reviewers raved that these sandals are “very comfortable,” “soft,” and “cushy” to walk in. Many shoppers also praised these flip-flops for their “excellent arch support.” One reviewer even called them “cloud flip-flops.”

Burudani Flip-Flop Sandals, $15 (were $40) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Ensuring stability and traction on nearly any surface, the outsoles are made of an EVA and rubber blend to prevent you from slipping. The soles are flexible, designed to bend with the natural movement of your feet instead of feeling stiff and restrictive. 

Ideal for muggy summer weather, these sandals have an open construction, allowing your feet to breathe. Designed for easy wear, they’re fixed with a Y-strap so you can slip in and out of them in seconds. However, they’ll also hold your feet securely in place. The post will sit snugly between your big and second toe, and span out to secure the tops of your feet. Made of fabric, the straps are soft and won’t uncomfortably chafe your skin. 

You can slip into these flip-flop sandals for nearly any casual summer outing. Delivering all-day comfort, they’re great for sightseeing on vacation, everyday errands, and anything in between. They’ll add a sporty aesthetic to any outfit, whether you’re wearing loungewear, athleisure, or streetwear. Shoppers love the style of these sandals, describing them as “super cute.”

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Related: Clarks’ Strappy Sandals Are 'Perfect' for Summer Travel and 50% Off at Amazon Right Now

Ready to tackle all your summer outings, the Burudani Flip-Flop Sandals are definitely worth adding to your seasonal wardrobe, especially while they’re 63% off. Be sure to snag them at Walmart while they’re still on sale for just $15! 

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