Parade
2004 Timeless Anthem Named 'Top Party Song' as Fans Groove to Summer Playlists
When chanted a certain way, the word "yeah" evokes a clubby sense of nostalgia for several generations of partygoers.
Usher and company won Grammy gold for their 2004 anthem, and it's been thumping at parties, weddings and events of all sorts ever since.
Featuring Lil Jon and Ludacris, "Yeah!" is also featured across countless party playlists these days as well, especially when the sun is out.
As 70% of Americans are searching for “summer party” this season, they might actually be hunting for the right tracks. To make it easier, experts at HelloMillions analyzed Spotify data to reveal the songs set to start the party this summer time. And you can guess which one topped the list.
To do this, data was collected on the following metrics for the 20 most-followed U.S. party playlists on Spotify:
- Playlist appearances — the number of playlists each song was featured in
- Danceability (0-100) — a measure of how suitable a track is for dancing
- Spotify Popularity (0-100) — the platform's own metric reflecting how many times a track has been played recently, with 100 being the most popular
- Tiktok usage — the number of videos using the sound
Each variable was then given an appropriate weight and a final Party Song score was calculated for each track: Playlist Appearances (45%), Danceability (25%), Spotify Popularity (20%) and TikTok usage (20%). Songs were ranked by their final Party Song score to produce the definitive list.
The data revealed Usher’s “Yeah!” tops the ranking as the top party song for 2026, scoring 9.37, and highest danceability score with 89/100. Close behind is “No Broke Boys” by Disco Lines and Tinashe (8.27), the most recent track in the top 5, with the highest Spotify popularity of any track at 93/100 — proving that a modern dance hit can still rival the classics.
Jerry Seinfeld Says There is Only Comedian He Truly Hates – And Fans Think it Might be Bobcat Goldthwait: 'I Don't Like Him at All'
Everyone has their own distinct tastes when it comes to comedic subject matter, with comedians themselves certainly no exception.
Yet even then, Jerry Seinfeld's intense dislike for one unnamed comedian's work goes above and beyond pure comedic preferences, as seen from his fiery criticisms of the comedian on a 2019 episode of Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee.
In said episode, Seinfeld appeared alongside fellow comedian Bridget Everett, who began discussing a personal friend who also happened to be a fellow comedian.
Hearing the name of the comedian in question, Seinfeld went on a lengthy tirade about Everett's friend, criticizing his stand-up routine and the comedian's own differences with Seinfeld's comedic style.
"I don't like him at all. At all," Seinfeld started by saying. "I had kind of forgotten about him, and then there was a little article about him in the paper, and even in that there was a veiled reference to his dislike of what I did. It didn't have my name, of course."
"He used to rail against comedians because they weren't as 'wild' and 'dangerous' as he was, because he sucked," Seinfeld continued. "He wasn't funny. And that's why he didn't get anywhere, period."
"Because in comedy, nobody gives a f**k if you're cool, if you're lame. If you're funny, you win. If you're not funny, you don't. And he's not funny. That's why he had to do that stupid f**king voice, because you have no f**king act."
While the comedian's name is bleeped out in the final edit of the episode, many fans have speculated that the talent in question is Bobcat Goldthwait, based on various context clues and the two comedians' decades-long feud with one another.
The shrill-voiced comedian best known for his work in films like Hercules, Scrooged and Police Academy, Goldthwait has long been outspoken about Seinfeld's comedy routine, as well as Seinfeld's controversial relationship with 17-year-old Shoshanna Lonstein when the comedian was 39-years-old.
"For the ones who are curious, this is about Bobcat Goldthwait," one YouTube account commented in the clip of Seinfeld's tirade. "At the beginning, I thought it was about Dice Clay but after a small search it is clear it is about Bobcat."
"Jerry’s voice stays at the same pitch and he still has the same comic delivery but when he hears Bobcat’s name you can almost see his pupils dilate," another fan similarly said.
"Jesus Jerry, PLEASE tell Bobcat how you REALLY feel!" another user remarked.
Beloved TV Comedy Gets Fan-Voted 20th Anniversary Marathon
Twenty years ago today, one of television's most beloved detective comedies made its debut.
Psych premiered on USA Network on July 7, 2006, introducing viewers to Shawn Spencer (James Roday Rodriguez), whose extraordinary powers of observation convinced the Santa Barbara Police Department that he was psychic, and his best friend Burton "Gus" Guster (Dulé Hill), who reluctantly joined him in solving increasingly bizarre mysteries. Over eight seasons, three movies and countless running jokes, the series built one of television's most devoted fan bases.
To celebrate the milestone, Great Entertainment Television is airing a special fan-voted Psych marathon on Saturday, July 11, and Sunday, July 12, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET. Fans voted online for their favorite episodes, with the 16 winning installments making up the anniversary event.
Part of what made Psych so enduring was its unique blend of mystery, comedy and pop culture references. Shawn's ridiculous nicknames for Gus, the hidden pineapple tucked into every episode, and a steady stream of memorable guest stars became beloved traditions that kept fans watching long after the show's original run ended. The series was also the highest-rated scripted basic cable premiere of 2006 and eventually spawned three reunion movies, with additional films reportedly still in development.
The fan-selected marathon includes several episodes that are consistently ranked among the show's very best.
The lineup kicks off with the spooky fan favorite "Scary Sherry: Bianca's Toast," before revisiting the telenovela-inspired "Lights, Camera… Homicidio" and the tense hostage episode "Gus Walks Into a Bank."
Among the biggest highlights is "Dual Spires," the acclaimed Twin Peaks tribute featuring guest appearances from several stars of David Lynch's cult classic: Sherilyn Fenn, Sheryl Lee, Dana Ashbrook, Robyn Lively, Lenny Von Dohlen, Catherine E. Coulson and Ray Wise. Fans will also get another visit from suave master thief Pierre Despereaux, played by Cary Elwes, in both "Extradition: British Columbia" and "Extradition II: The Actual Extradition Part."
Sunday's lineup features several of the series' most acclaimed episodes, including the Hitchcock-inspired "Mr. Yin Presents…," the musical mystery "High Top Fade-Out" featuring Boyz II Men on the intro, the Clue-inspired "100 Clues" with Christopher Lloyd, the unforgettable singing competition parody "American Duos" starring Tim Curry and the wildly popular "Last Night Gus," which many fans consider one of the funniest episodes of the entire series.
Although Psych concluded its original run in 2014, its popularity has only grown in the years since. The show's cast has reunited for three television movies, and series creator Steve Franks has previously said he hopes to continue the franchise with additional films, giving longtime fans reason to believe Shawn, Gus and the rest of the Psych detective agency may not have solved their final case just yet.
Complete Marathon ScheduleSaturday, July 11- 11:00 a.m. ET: "Scary Sherry: Bianca's Toast"
- 12:00 p.m. ET: "Lights, Camera… Homicidio"
- 1:00 p.m. ET: "Lassie Did a Bad, Bad Thing"
- 2:00 p.m. ET: "Gus Walks Into a Bank"
- 3:00 p.m. ET: "The High School Reunion"
- 4:00 p.m. ET: "Heeeeere's Lassie"
- 5:00 p.m. ET: "Dual Spires"
- 6:00 p.m. ET: "Extradition II: The Actual Extradition Part"
- 11:00 a.m. ET: "Extradition: British Columbia"
- 12:00 p.m. ET: "Office Space"
- 1:00 p.m. ET: "Mr. Yin Presents…"
- 2:00 p.m. ET: "High Top Fade-Out"
- 3:00 p.m. ET: "100 Clues"
- 4:00 p.m. ET: "An Evening With Mr. Yang"
- 5:00 p.m. ET: "American Duos"
- 6:00 p.m. ET: "Last Night Gus"
Amazon's $24 6-Pack of 'Durable' Zippered Storage Bags Is 'Useful for Dorm Moving Days'
Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
Moving any time is a pain, but moving your kid into their college dorm in the middle of August is a whole other ordeal. Between the heat (you're going to want a fan) and the emotions (bring tissues!), the last thing you want is a busted cardboard box falling through your arms, sending an embarrassing array of unmentionables flying across the quad. What you need is a simple storage solution that makes packing up someone's entire childhood and moving it into a tiny thimble of a dorm room just a little easier on everyone.
Thankfully, Amazon has an excellent option that's currently on sale. Normally $40, the Fygrip 6-Pack Heavy-Duty Moving Bags are now just $24, which means you're getting each bag for just $4. Unlike cardboard boxes, these oversized bags have handles, which makes them easier to carry. Plus, they're reusable, making this set a worthwhile investment for all your future moving and storage needs.
Fygrip 6-Pack Heavy-Duty Moving Bags, From $24 (was $40) at Amazon Shop at AmazonMade of extra-thick, water- and tear-resistant polyethylene, each bag measures 29 inches long, 14 inches high, and 13 inches wide with a 23-gallon capacity. Hardy straps that wrap completely around each bag provide ample support, holding up to 65 pounds. The flexible zippered exterior has a wide opening, so you can easily pack a lot into each bag. When you're not using them, these bags fold down small and flat so you can easily tuck them away in a cabinet, closet, or under a bed, making them a great alternative to plastic storage bins when you're short on space.
More than 100 Amazon shoppers mentioned using these "spacious" bags to move in and out of college dorms. "I was able to pack up everything in my fairly large dorm into all six of these bags, including pillows, a comforter, and other bulky items," one person shared. Another reviewer called them "useful for dorm moving days" because the bags were easy to carry up and down stairs.
Shop More Deals- Dayseon 8-Pack Heavy-Duty Moving Bags, $30 (was $45) at Amazon
- Ticonn 4-Pack Extra-Large Moving Bags, $20 (was $25) at Amazon
- Rmohro 6-Pack Moving Bags, $24 (was $36) at Amazon
With over 9,500 five-star ratings on Amazon, it's clear that shoppers were impressed with the performance of these bags beyond college campuses. "Whether you're moving, organizing, or storing seasonal items, these are definitely worth having," one reviewer raved. "The zipper is smooth, and the bags feel durable enough to use over and over again," another person shared, noting that they're "perfect for moving and storage."
Available in six colors, the blue bags are currently priced the lowest at just $24. All other colors are on sale for $27, which is still a significant savings over the usual $40 price tag. They also come in a 12-pack, which is on sale in blue for $47.
Whether you're moving soon or just need a convenient way to store items around your home, the Fygrip 6-Pack Heavy-Duty Moving Bags can handle it all. You can snag the set now while it's 40% off at Amazon ahead of college move-in and be fully prepared for when it's time to pack up and go.
Don’t miss future deals!Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.
'70s Rock Band, Disbanded for 31 Years, Ranked Among 'Greatest Supergroups' of All Time
The iconic British rock band UK, formed by influential members from bands like King Crimson, Yes, Roxy Music and Soft Machine, has earned its place among the greatest supergroups of all time.
The legendary quartet was among the 23 all-star lineups listed by BBC Music Magazine as one of the most celebrated supergroups ever formed.
While Emerson, Lake & Palmer, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Asia and Cream secured the top four spots in the ranking, UK landed at No. 5.
Described by the publication as a “ferociously talented prog supergroup,” the band was founded by drummer Bill Bruford and bassist John Wetton, both former members of King Crimson.
Completing the original lineup were violinist and keyboardist Eddie Jobson of Roxy Music and guitarist Allan Holdsworth, forming a powerhouse lineup that quickly became one of progressive rock's most acclaimed groups.
British progressive rock supergroup UK Eddie Jobson, John Wetton, Allan Holdsworth, Bill Bruford in 1978.Watal Asanuma/Shinko Music/Getty Images
UK made its debut in 1978 and released its self-titled debut album, U.K.
With its members bringing together decades of musical experience and influence, the album peaked at No. 65 on the Billboard 200 and No. 43 on the UK Albums Chart.
The album includes the band's hit track "In the Dead of Night," which the keyboardist and electric violinist once described as the band's “signature song.”
“In The Dead of Night was probably the song that came together the quickest and easiest, which is probably why it became the U.K.’s signature song,” Jobson mentioned in an interview as reported by Music Aficionado. “I brought the piece in as a virtually complete three-part suite—mostly written out on sheet music—but it turned out to be one of those songs that everyone just started playing and it immediately worked.”
Shortly after the album was released, guitarist Allan Holdsworth left in 1978 due to creative differences.
At the same time, Bruford also left the band to rejoin King Crimson. He was then replaced by Terry Bozzio from Frank Zappa's band, creating the second lineup of UK alongside Wetton and Jobson.
The trio released their second and final album, Danger Money, in 1979.
Although the album received positive reviews, the band disbanded the following year after struggling to achieve significant commercial success.
Following its disbandment in 1980, UK held its first reunion tour 31 years later, performing in New York City and staging a special four-night residency in Tokyo.
At the time, the lineup featured Wetton and Jobson with backing musicians Alex Machacek on guitar and Marco Minnemann on drums.
Related: '80s Rock Band, Formed by Accident, Ranked Among 'Best Supergroups' of All Time
The Perfect Theme Song to Your Summer Is Written in Your Birth Date
Every generation has certain songs of the summer that immediately fuel memories of lazy, sun-soaked, poolside days. If you grew up in the ‘70s, Eric Burdon & War’s “Spill the Wine” or Donna Summer’s “Hot Stuff” might be forever associated with summertime for you. If you came of age in the ‘80s, it’s possible that between Memorial Day and Labor Day, you can’t help but think of effervescent summery pop hits from bands like Bananarama or The Go-Gos. And if you were a kid in the ‘90s, artists like Ricky Martin and Mariah Carey bring you back to the heat waves of your adolescent era. But which classic summertime hit best matches you, based on your birth date? Read on to find the tune you might adore streaming all season long.
RELATED: The Theme Song to Your Life, Based on Birth Month
View this post on Instagram The Classic Summer Song That Best Reflects Your Personality, Based on Your Birth DateRead on to find out which “song of the summer” fits your personality and point of view.
✦ Learn more about your birth date numerology ✦
Born on the…
1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | 5th | 6th | 7th | 8th | 9th | 10th
11th |12th | 13th | 14th | 15th | 16th | 17th | 18th | 19th |20th
21st | 22nd |23rd | 24th | 25th | 26th | 27th | 28th | 29th | 30th | 31st
Born on the 1st, 10th, 19th, or 28th: “Raspberry Beret” by Prince & the RevolutionYou were born on a date associated with the sun, the luminary that rules self-image, confidence, and purpose in astrology. Upbeat, fun, and self-assured, your vibe matches Prince and the Revolution’s summer hit that was released on May 15, 1985. The bright, colorful, psychedelic music video features Prince surrounded by florals and features electrifying dancing that matches the positive way you move through life. And the lyrics, which find Prince swooning over a girl in a raspberry beret, is the kind of sultry, fun, and romantic storyline you can get behind.
Born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, or 29th: “Dreams” by Fleetwood MacYou were born on a day that’s connected to the moon, which rules intuition, instincts, and emotions. You’re sensitive, dreamy, and whimsical. Released in March 1977 as the second single from Rumours, the Stevie Nicks-penned track is arguably a hit for all seasons but it was one of the songs of the summer of ‘77. Its vivid lyrics, which call to mind thunder, rain, crystal visions, all match your intuitive style while Nicks appeal to sentimentality (“In the stillness of remembering/What you had and what you lost”) also aligns with your emotions-informed perspective.
OTHER: 1984 Rock Song, Originally Rejected by a Hit Band, Became a Nostalgic Summer Anthem
Born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, or 30th: “Vacation” by The Go-GosAs someone whose birth date reduces down to three, a number ruled by Jupiter, the largest planet in our solar system that oversees abundance, expansion, and good fortune, you live large and might also be a bit fan of tapping into your wanderlust to travel extensively. That said, to you, summertime is an opportunity to hit the road and make the most of the sunniest season of the year, which aligns with The Go-Gos’ 1982 summer anthem. Featuring surf guitar, team water skiing, and a celebration of travel as a way to get over an unrequited love, “Vacation” matches your go big or go home, buoyant point of view.
Born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, or 31st: “Don't You Want Me" by Human LeagueYour birth date reduces down to four, which is associated with Uranus, the planet of rebellion, electricity, and sudden change. You’re an innovator, a futurist, and a trailblazer. “Don’t You Want Me” by the Human League had been around for several months (it was released November 1981), but its three-week stint topping the Billboard Hot 100 in the US didn’t occur until July 1982. And in addition to being Uranian in that it was a major hit to come out of the synth-pop/new wave genre, MTV’s heavy play of the music video (another exciting innovation of the era) also contributed to its success.
NEXT: 1965 Rock and Roll Staple Is Considered One of the Greatest of All Time Songs of the Summer
Born on the 5th, 14th, or 23rd: "Livin' La Vida Loca" by Ricky MartinBecause you were born on a day that reduces down to the number five, your numerological planetary ruler is Mercury, the planet of technology, transportation, storytelling, and cerebral energy. In the summer of 1999, Ricky Martin’s hit single was everywhere—from MTV to the radio to Discmen spinning all over the country. The pure popularity of the track matches your social, buzzy nature, and the playful blend of salsa, surf, ska, and upbeat dance mirrors how you are always up for learning, exploring, and flitting from one thing to the next.
Born on the 6th, 15th, or 24th: “Always Be My Baby” by Mariah CareyIf you came into the world on one of these dates, you were born with the influence of Venus, the planet of romance, pleasure, art, and music. You prioritize relationships, connection, love, and expressing yourself creativity, all themes that weave throughout Mariah Carey’s catalogue—and of course are also present in her summer hit “Always Be My Baby.” Released March 1996, the heavily radio and MTV-played track had an accompanying music video with major Venusian vibes, featuring Carey on a tire swing above a lake and teen lovebirds at a summer camp. The song’s sweet lyrics that are full of heart are all you.
RELATE?: Your Classic Summer Movie, Based on Your Birth Month
Born on the 7th, 16th, or 25th: “Spill the Wine” by Eric Burdon & WarYour mystical, sensitive, imaginative, even slightly psychic perspective is colored by the fact that your birth date reduces down to seven, a number aligned with Neptune, the planet named for the God of the Sea that oversees illusion and spirituality. You’re a dreamer, which is why “Spill the Wine,” which was released May 1970 and made a resurgence when it appeared in Boogie Nights in 1997, is so in tune with your M.O. Detailing a dream that Burdon had, in which he starred “in a Hollywood movie,” the hypnotic lyrics take the listener on an ethereal, hazy summertime journey—an experience that feels particularly Neptunian.
Born on the 8th, 17th, or 26th: “Cruel Summer” by BananaramaBecause you were born on a date that reduces down to the number eight, you’re industrious, mature, wise, and grounded, because you were born on a date that’s associated with Saturn, the taskmaster planet. A time-honored summertime classic, Bananarama’s 1983 hit tackles the truths of summer that are hard to deny, such as what the season feels like when you live in a crowded city—especially when your friends head out of town to escape the heat. And Saturnian as you are, you appreciate the reality checks Bananarama dishes out and its timelessness is also aligned with your desire to create something that lasts.
Born on the 9th, 18th, or 27th: “Hot Stuff” by Donna SummerIf your birth date reduces down to nine, you’re fiery, impulsive, competitive, and action-oriented, because the day you were born is associated with Mars, the planet of energy, sex, and action. For a song the summer that matches your bold, red-hot vibe, look no further than Queen of Disco Donna Summer’s 1979 smash “Hot Stuff,” which was released as the lead single from her seventh studio album, Bad Girls. As someone who is constantly vying to be #1, you have to love just how much acclaim the track got, remaining at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for three non-consecutive weeks and spending 14 weeks in the top 10 that year. The driving, disco-meets-rock beat and spicy lyrics (“Wanna share my love with a warm-blooded lover/Wanna bring a wild man back home”) also mirror your sultry, go-getter approach to life.
UP NEXT:
1974 Power Ballad, Famously Resurged 17 Years Later, Became a Soft Rock Anthem
Fifty-two years ago, legendary rock star Elton John released "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me"—a hit that became a timeless soft rock anthem and experienced a major resurgence 17 years later.
Released in the U.S. on June 10, 1974 as the lead single from his eighth studio album, Caribou, the track became a massive hit. Upon its release, the single climbed up the Billboard Hot 100 chart, peaking at No. 2 during the summer and holding the spot for four consecutive weeks.
Despite never officially claiming the No. 1 spot during its original run, the track achieved the feat 17 years later with a live duet version. During a George Michael concert at Wembley Arena in 1991, Michael brought John out onstage as a surprise guest. The pair performed an electrifying rendition of "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me," eliciting a thunderous crowd response.
Pop star Elton John congratulates George Michael on winning the Ivor Novello Songwriter of the Year Award at London's Grosvenor House Hotel on March 13, 1985.Dave Hogan/Hulton Archive/Getty Images
Following the show, the duo decided to release the live duet rendition of the song, dropping it as a single on November 20. The duet provided the final push the song needed to top the Hot 100 chart, holding the No. 1 spot in both the U.S. and U.K.
Aside from chart dominance, both versions of the song experienced major critical recognition. The original 1974 version earned two Grammy Award nominations at the 17th Annual ceremony for Record of the Year and Best Pop Vocal Performance. At the 1993 Grammy Awards ceremony, the live duet version was nominated for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals—attesting to the track's lasting ability to bridge generations of music fans.
Produced by Gus Dudgeon, "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me" is recognizable as a quintessential power ballad for its building score. The track starts slow, with John's vocals crescendoing from a whisper to a soaring vocal climax by the end. Accompanied by John's signature acoustic piano and a marching rhythm section, the track's grand atmosphere perfectly complements its vulnerable lyrical themes of emotional burnout and identity struggles.
Over five decades after its initial release, "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me" continues to connect with listeners through the digital era. On Spotify alone, the song has accumulated over 347 million streams across its multiple versions, proving its unique ability to remain relevant to several generations of soft rock lovers.
Related: 1972 Rock Classic, Once Spent 12 Weeks Charting, Became a Timeless Breakup Anthem
1975 Power Ballad, Reimagined 21 Years Later, Became a Timeless Soft Rock Anthem
When thinking about timeless songs about heartache, one song stands out: Eric Carmen wrote "All By Myself," which would be a hit release for him and another music icon decades later.
"All By Myself" was released in 1975 as part of Carmen's self-titled debut album, but the catch was that he developed the track using an old recording by the Raspberries. The power ballad was developed shortly after Carmen left the power pop group, with him having reportedly written the solo section first over two months.
Carmen needed more to get the track fully developed and was struck with inspiration using Sergei Rachmaninoff's second piano concerto. There was a slight issue when he adapted the melody for his own track. The composer's work was in the public domain, and Carmen believed there were no copyright issues in using it. He had no idea the concerto was protected in other countries and had to come to an agreement over royalties.
Alongside the concerto, a previous hit by the Raspberries, "Let's Pretend," was also used to develop the chorus of "All by Myself." According to SmoothRadio, Carmen felt the Raspberries track didn't go as far as he had hoped and thought, "I'll go back and steal from myself for this."
The track was praised by critics as a superb rock ballad that landed at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and No.1 on Cash Box. For Carmen, the ballad focused on lost love, friendships, and loneliness, with him calling the track "miserable."
“There’s not nearly as much fuel in being happy as there is in being miserable,” said Carmen, according to American Songwriter. “Being miserable is a great catalyst for songwriting, for me anyway."
When it came to the song's effect on people, the musician said it's self-explanatory once hearing it. He explains that "you’d know what the song was about, and it’s an emotion that everyone has felt at some point in their life. Therefore, it’s a song that goes immediately to your heart. The lyrics are as simple as I could possibly make them. Sometimes my melodies are so dramatic that if the lyric is that dramatic, it’s overkill."
"All by Myself" would become a soft rock anthem and pop culture sensation that would be covered by multiple artists. One of the most recognizable covers was done by none other than Celine Dion in 1996. Her "out-of-this-world voice" was praised by critics as one of the few capable of lifting the song's emotional chords. Dion's cover would land her at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and No.1 on the Adult Contemporary chart.
Related: 1978 Rock Ballad, Written as an Apology to a Bandmate, Remains a Classic Soft Rock Anthem
Best-Selling Contemporary Romance Novel Among 'Most Read Books' on Goodreads
Some books take a while to gain popularity, while others skyrocket to stardom shortly after publication.
The latter is true for Lily King's best-selling novel, Heart the Lover, which has been voted among the most read books on Goodreads in 2026 thus far. Placing at no. 2 in the list of the "top 12 most read contemporary fiction novels of the Challenge (so far)" and no. 12 on the "overall most read books of the Goodreads Reading Challenge (so far)," the contemporary romance is a fan-favorite that has enthralled keen readers across the globe.
Published on Sept. 30, 2025 by Grove Press in the U.S., the book has cemented itself as one of the most popular books in recent history, despite being published less than a year ago.
Shortly after its release, Heart the Lover was nominated in the Readers' Favorite Fiction category of the 2025 Goodreads Choice Awards. Earning an average 4.2 stars out of five at the time of writing, the beloved book has received rave reviews from Goodreads users, with many proclaiming to to be their favorite book of the year.
"Soon into reading this I felt giddy," wrote one reviewer. "I knew almost from the start that the pained-heart sensation, the propulsive forwarding of the pages, the visceral reality of this world and these people and their relationships to each other meant I was never going to forget this book."
View this post on Instagram"This was my first Lily King novel and will definitely not be my last because the emotional rollercoaster of these characters and their relationships was so well done," explained a second. "I was a blubbering mess by the end and when a book can evoke that kind of emotion out of me. 5 stars."
Heart the Lover is divided into three distinct parts and explores a decades-long college love triangle that haunts its narrator. A companion book to King's 2020 novel Writers & Lovers, Heart the Lover serves as both a prequel and a sequel to the earlier book.
Mariska Hargitay to Host 2026 Emmy Awards
Mariska Hargitay is adding another title to her resume: host.
Announced Tuesday, the Law and Order: SVU icon will be taking the stage at the 78th annual Emmy Awards in September as emcee for the ceremony.
“Bringing important stories into the light has been the heartbeat of my career," she said in the announcement. "It’s my great honor to host the 78th Emmy Awards — in the 100th birthday year of my beloved NBC — and celebrate this extraordinary community of storytellers."
"Whether it’s an actor or a director, a costumer or a sound designer, we are all so privileged to take part in creating television that unites us," she added. "Regardless of how, where or when we watch, we are together in our laughter, our tears, our love of stories — and our delighted anticipation to see what happens next.”
According to Variety, Hargitay will be the first woman to host the ceremony in 15 years. The most recent woman to host the award show was Jane Lynch in 2011 when the Emmys aired on Fox.
Related: Mariska Hargitay Celebrates ‘Incredible’ Career Achievement: ‘My Heart is So Full’
Hargitay, 62, is of course synonymous with her dozens of seasons on crime drama which has been airing since 1999. Her role as Olivia Benson has scored her an Emmy award of her own along with several nominations.
“Mariska is one of television’s most beloved stars, whose talent, authenticity and extraordinary connection with audiences have made her an enduring force in our industry and in culture,” Television Academy chair Cris Abrego said in the announcement. “We’re so delighted to have her join us as the host of this year’s Emmys telecast and know that she will create an unforgettable evening honoring the very best of television.”
Recently, Hargitay metaphorically turned in her badge for a bit as she made her Broadway debut in Every Brilliant Thing in May during a six-week run that just wrapped. Last year, she directed and starred in My Mom Jayne, a documentary which followed her process of learning about her late mother Jayne Mansfield.
The awards ceremony will air live on NBC and Peacock from Los Angeles' Peacock Theater on Monday, Sept. 14 at 8 p.m. ET.
🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬
Sam's Club's $40 16-Piece Stoneware Kitchen Upgrade Is So 'Beautiful,' Shoppers Are Snatching It Up in Pairs
Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
If you're on the hunt for kitchen upgrades that don't break the bank, it's always worth checking to see what your local Sam's Club has in store. Always a reliable choice for any and all of your bulk essential needs, where the retail giant tends to catch shoppers by surprise is with its extensive collection of kitchen tools and home staples.
From reliable appliances to elegant serveware, there's a little something for everyone under the warehouse giant's vibrant blue roof. And with a seasonal refresh at the top of everyone's mind heading into summer, finds like the Member's Mark 16-Piece Bubble Reactive Dinnerware Set are a perfect reminder of why Sam's Club remains a go-to destination for affordable kitchen upgrades.
Member's Mark 16-Piece Bubble Reactive Dinnerware Set, $39.96 at Sam's Club Shop It!Transforming everyday meals into memorable moments, the Member's Mark 16-Piece Bubble Reactive Dinnerware Set features sleek, durable stoneware with both modern and artisanal charm. Retailing for just $39.96, this set hardly breaks the bank while easily serving as an elegant kitchen upgrade, including four dinner plates, four salad plates, four pasta bowls and four cereal bowls.
Available in cream, green, taupe and orange colorways while supplies last, this set can easily complement a variety of seasonal themes, whether you bring it out for special occasions or use it as your everyday dinnerware. Even better, with a bubble rim and concentric pattern, it brings a relaxed, modern feel to your tablescape, while its reactive glaze adds a unique finish that makes each piece stand out.
Related: IKEA Is Selling a $25 2-Tier Kitchen Upgrade That Declutters Messy Counters
Online, reviews are just starting to pour in, with one fan giving it a five-star rating and calling it a "chic, modern and beautiful" collection. They added, "I bought two sets and I will buy even more in the beautiful taupe and orange colors."
As for the details that matter, each piece in the set is microwave- and dishwasher-safe for everyday convenience, making everything from meal prep to cleanup a total breeze. And in terms of sizing, the set includes 10-inch dinner plates, 8.27-inch salad plates, 7.48-inch pasta bowls, and 6.42-inch cereal bowls, giving you plenty of variety for all of your hosting needs.
If durable elegance and versatility across a variety of occasions sound intriguing to you, you definitely won't be disappointed adding this gorgeous set to your collection. Use it for weeknight dinners, special occasions and quiet nights alike, whether you're hosting a crowd or enjoying a solo meal after a long day of work.
While you're at it, you can elevate your kitchen even further with Sam's Club's beautiful Checkered Wooden Cutting Board and 30-Piece Pyrex Food Storage Set.
Related: Target's $40 Boho Kitchen Essential Is a 'Stylish and Functional' Solution for Tight Spaces
Fan-Favorite Comedian Chris Parnell Recalls What it Was Like Being Fired, Rehired, Then Fired Again From 'SNL': 'It Was a Big Shock'
Many different comedians have come and gone on NBC's Saturday Night Live over the past five decades, but only one has ever been fired twice from the hit sketch comedy series.
Originally joining SNL in the fall of 1998, fan-favorite cast member Chris Parnell was eventually removed from the show in 2001 due to ongoing budget cuts and the hiring of four new cast members on the show.
Ultimately, the comedian was brought back to the show one year later, only to once again find himself let go from SNL due to budget cuts in 2006.
Opening up about his experiences being the only SNL cast member to be fired twice from the series, the 59-year-old Parnell told fellow SNL alum Jay Mohr that his initial dismissal and subsequent rehiring came as certainly surprising at the time.
"It was a big shock, and there was enough of an outcry from the cast and the writers that I felt like, 'Okay, I'm not the only one who thinks this is crazy," said on the Mohr Stories podcast.
At the time, Parnell said that he naturally assumed that SNL would bring back all of its established players following the end of season 26.
"I was on the phone with [fellow cast member] Rachel Dratch and some other people. We just assumed we would all be back. So it was a big surprise," the 30 Rock actor continued.
Fortunately, Parnell said that he kept hearing rumblings that Michaels would reverse his decision and rehire the comedian, allowing him to once again continue on as one of SNL's best players in the early to mid 2000s.
"I just kept hearing that [SNL showrunner Lorne Michaels] might be bringing me back," Parnell explained.
Throughout his tenure on SNL, Parnell remained known for playing the hilariously clueless straight man to many of the show's most energetic performers, including Will Ferrell, Rachel Dratch and Chris Kattan, as seen from his supporting role in the now iconic "More Cowbell" sketch.
Bette Midler Posts Behind-the-Scenes Photo From 'First Wives Club' With Diane Keaton and Goldie Hawn
Bette Midleris giving fans a dose of bittersweet nostalgia with her latest Instagram post.
The iconic actress took to social media on Tuesday with a black-and-white photo of her with her First Wives Club castmates Goldie Hawn and the late Diane Keaton, as well as the film's composer Marc Shaiman.
"It was the best of times," she captioned the sweet pic.
View this post on InstagramFans, delighted by the photo, immediately took to the comments praising the 1996 film and remembering Keaton who died in October at age 79:
- "Movie was such an authentic needed script of 'real life' for the women when we are in the thick of it," one said. "Thank you."
- "I saw this movie when I was 11 and it was so formative. Sweet Diane is so missed," said another.
- "Love seeing this!!!" a third said, while another fan suggested, "Frame this in the Louvre."
Plenty of other fans also recited lyrics from the song, "You Don't Own Me," by Lesley Gore, which iconically closes out the film. Speaking of the film's music, another fan brought up Shaiman's book Never Mind The Happy.
"It is a fast and terrific read. This photo is included in the book," they said. "It is obvious that Marc loves you do [sic] death and is forever grateful for all that you did to help him make it in the business. We loved reading his stories especially about you."
Following Keaton's death, both Midler and Hawn both shared tributes to their longtime friend.
"I cannot tell you how unbearably sad this makes me," Midler wrote of the Annie Hall star's passing at the time. "She was hilarious, a complete original, and completely without guile, or any of the competitiveness one would have expected from such a star. What you saw was who she was…oh, la, lala!"
Hawn, in a speech at the The Hollywood Reporter’s Women in Entertainment Gala in December, referred to Keaton as "lightning in a bottle."
“She just brought so much joy, so much life, so much exuberance," she said. "She was like lightning in a bottle. There wasn’t anything that she couldn’t do, there wasn’t any world that she couldn’t live in.”
🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬
Who Is 'Moana' Star Catherine Laga'aia's Famous Father?
Newcomer Catherine Laga'aia plays Moana in the live action movie. The 19-year-old actress is already familiar with filmmaking because her father acted in multiple Star Warsmovies.
Here is everything to know about her father and what she said about following in his footsteps.
Jay Laga'aia played Captain Typho in 'Star Wars' Jay Laga'aia and Catherine Laga’aiaHanna Lassen/Getty Images for Disney
Catherine is the daughter of Jay Laga'aia and Sandie Jane Laga'aia. He was Captain Gregar Typho in the Star Wars prequels. The character worked with Padmé Amidala (Natalie Portman) as a captain for Naboo's forces.
Laga'aia, 62 is from New Zealand and Australia. He acts mostly in sci-fi and fantasy projects like Legend of the Seeker, Daybreakers, and Shadow Wars. However, he did have a long run on the Australian soap opera, Home and Away as Elijah Johnson. Catherine told PEOPLE that she wants to make her father proud with the Disney movie.
"I think having my dad in the industry, as well as wanting to do the OG proud, and wanting to do the people who love the movies proud, I feel my biggest thing was I wanted him to be proud," she said.
The daughter said she asked herself what her dad would do throughout the process. "He knows what’s good, he knows what he likes," she continued. "I’m someone on his side. That’s the part of my family that I’m representing."
Related: ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ Drops ‘Happy Birthday Haymitch’ Video
Catherine also has seven siblings named Sefa, Jeremy, Tana, Georgia, Jessica, Katie, Bella and Matthew. Some of them are also in the entertainment industry, which wasn't her father's goal.
"It's the last thing I wanted them to do," he told ABC News. "I've been doing this 42 years and it's something that I love doing. It is my calling. But at the end of the day, somebody said to me, 'if this is their forever job, then who am I to stand in their way?'"
When Does the Live Action 'Moana' Come Out?The new movie will be in theaters on Friday, July 10. Dwayne Johnson reprises his role as Maui in the live-action film. He's not the only one from the animated movie to make it into this version. Jemaine Clement returns as the narcissistic crab Tamatoa. Johnson, 54, confirmed there will more to Moana's story.
"Yes, we have talked about ‘Moana 3,’ yes," the movie star said at a press conference, according to Variety. "But first, live-action ‘Moana,’ we’ll let that come out first. We have [the] amazing Jared Bush and Dana Ledoux Miller, who have been our writers … they will pen ‘Moana 3.’"
Bush, 52, was a writer on Zootopia, Zootopia 2, Encanto, and Moana 2. Miller created the story for the Moana sequel.
Auli'i Cravalho voiced the main character in the second movie. There is a chance she could return, but she has moved on to other roles. It was recently announced she's playing Jessica Cruz in My Adventures with Superman.
Related: Will Hugh Jackman Help the Next Actor Who Plays Wolverine?
'Shark Tank' Season 18 Adds MrBeast and Mindy Kaling to Powerhouse New Lineup
Shark Tank returns for Season 18 with a powerhouse roster of guest Sharks, as Kendra Scott and Rashaun Williams step into expanded roles as permanent Sharks.
Scott and Williams will join real estate mogul Barbara Corcoran; prolific inventor and entrepreneur, acclaimed brand builder and humanitarian LoriGreiner; cybersecurity technology innovator Robert Herjavec; fashion and branding expert Daymond John; social entrepreneur, investor and civic leader Daniel Lubetzky; venture capitalist Kevin O’Leary; philanthropist, bestselling author, and executive chairwoman and chief visionary officer of the eponymous lifestyle brand Kendra Scott; and venture capitalist and chief investment officer of Harbinger Sports Partners Rashaun Williams; who will face a fresh group of entrepreneurs seeking financing for their ideas.
This season’s all-star lineup of guest Sharks includes:
Jimmy Donaldson (aka MrBeast), creator of the YouTube channel MrBeast and founder of Beast Industries, and Jeffrey Housenbold, chief executive officer of Beast Industries.
Jimmy Donaldson aka MrBeastPhoto credit: Beast Industries
Mindy Kaling, award-winning writer, producer, director, actor and author.
Mindy KalingPhoto credit: Ari Michelson
J.J. Watt, founder of the Justin J. Watt Foundation and former NFL defensive lineman.
JJ WattPhoto credit: JJ Watt
Erin Foster and Sara Foster, co-founders of Favorite Daughter, producers and entrepreneurs.
Erin FosterPhoto credit: David Roemer
Steven Bartlett, entrepreneur, investor, Dragon on “Dragons’ Den” (the U.K. version of “Shark Tank”) and host of “The Diary of a CEO,” the second-largest podcast in the world.
Steven BartlettPhoto credit: FlightStory
Related: ABC Announces Historic Fall 2026-2027 Schedule, Including The Rookie: North Spinoff
The multi-Emmy® Award-winning business-themed unscripted series Shark Tank has become a culturally defining series and inspires a nation to dream bigger has amassed over $11 billion in retail sales from deals offered in the Tank. The Sharks will once again give people from all walks of life the chance to chase the American Dream and potentially secure business deals that could make them millionaires.
Season 18 of Shark Tank will air Wednesdays this fall on ABC and stream next day on Hulu. The premiere date will be announced at a later date.
Next, Is Your Favorite Show Coming Back or Canceled? See Our Fall TV 2026–2027 Guide
2000s Rock Band Announces First Album in 11 Years
There's no better feeling than when you're favorite band announces new music, especially after a long hiatus without a fresh LP to indulge in.
After an 11-year wait, Alabama Shakes have announced their upcoming album, I Must Be Dreaming, set to be released on Aug. 28 via Island.
The beloved rock band, which went on hiatus in 2018, has been slowly trickling out new music, with the two singles of the forthcoming album having been released over the last few months. Last summer, the group dropped "Another Life," their first original track in 10 years, and "American Dream" followed in Apr. 2026.
"There’s a double meaning to it," lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Brittany Howard said in a statement, explaining the title of their third studio album. "It could be saying, 'I must be dreaming, because the world is so f---ing crazy right now.' But it could also mean, 'I must be dreaming, because the world is so incredibly beautiful.' Both those things can be true at once."
On June 10, the band will release the third single from I Must Be Dreaming, titled "I Feel Hope Coming". Howard said that the latest single pays homage to the "younger generation," and the hope that they bring during turbulent times.
Howard continued, "They can see through all the political lies — that song’s about holding onto that hope, and refusing to give up.”
Guitarist Heath Fogg added: “I’m really happy that song exists. It came from such a joyful moment of collaboration, and exemplifies everything I love about this band being reborn.”
Later this month, the Grammy Award-winning three-piece continue their much-anticipated tour, stopping at major cities across the U.S. and North America. The tour kicked off in Richmond, VA on April 16, playing both newer hits and the old classics. During the upcoming leg, which resumes in Tacoma, WA on July 24, the rockers may debut some of the brand new tracks from I Must Be Dreaming.
Related: Iconic ’80s New Wave Band Faces Uncertain Future After 2 Members Quit Touring
Yotel's New Worldwide Launch Is the First of Its Kind
It's time to put your phone down and enjoy the moment—and Yotel launched a program to help travelers do just that. The first-of-its-kind initiative, Anti-Appy Hour, officially went live on World Wellness Day, but it's continuing far beyond the summer holiday (recognized on June 13).
The brand announced its new agenda, which is meant to help with digital fatigue in an ever-changing world that's largely dependent on technology, via press release. The hotel chain's ask is simple: take an intentional hour (or more...) away from your devices to be present, mindful, and engaged in the real world around you.
And the push to make that small shift is needed now more than ever. According to a survey on screen addiction, on average, Americans spent five hours and 16 minutes per day on their phones last year, a 14% increase from 2024. Meanwhile, Hilton's Trends Report found that the demand for unplugged travel is rising: one-third of adults are seeking more opportunities to decompress when away from home.
"We're all a bit overloaded right now—phones constantly buzzing, tabs multiplying, attention pulled in every direction before you've even had your morning coffee," Olivia Donnan, Senior Vice President, Brand, Culture and Growth at Yotel, noted of the need for such a program. "Anti-Appy Hour is our way of giving guests—whether they're staying with us or just need a reset mid-city—a genuine reason to put it all down for a bit. Not a digital detox, not a wellness lecture, just a proper pocket of time that's actually yours to reset, recharge or reconnect."
To participate, visitors are invited to tap a Bloom card—a stainless steel, app-blocking keycard recently seen on Shark Tank—on their phone to temporarily block selected apps for the allotted time. In place of the hour spent scrolling, guests can choose to "sip on a Bloom cocktail, strike up conversations with fellow travelers, or embrace a moment of quiet reflection with complimentary postcards available throughout the space." Bloom cards will be available on-site.
Yotel's Anti-Appy Hour has already gone into effect globally, from its hotspots across Europe, to Tokyo, Japan, and the U.S. (Washington, D.C. and Boston).
Things to Do at YotelYotel offers different amenities at each of its properties, but the Washington, D.C. location is a standout in the nation's capital. From self-service and mobile check-in/out to modern, unique ambient LED mood lighting throughout each room, motorized, adjustable (not to mention comfortable) SmartBeds, and chic bathroom spaces, you're bound to settle in nicely.
The rooftop pool with relaxing cabanas and a bar serving a selection of drinks, frozen beverages, and bites adds a nice touch, especially for hot summer days. Plus, downstairs on the ground floor, the award-winning Art & Soul restaurant is open for breakfast/brunch (the fresh banana bread is a must-try!), lunch, and dinner, with flavorful, seasonal dishes.
Additionally, the central Capitol Hill location offers easy access to a variety of nearby attractions—the U.S. Capitol building, Botanic Gardens, Eastern Market, and the Library of Congress (the largest library in the world), to name a few—whether just visiting the city or enjoying a weekend staycation.
Related: 9 Super Cool Things to Do in Washington, D.C. That Won't Break the Bank
55 Years After Reinventing Healthy Cuisine, This Chef is Teaming Up With Sweetgreen
The fast-casual giant sweetgreen recently announced a partnership with Alice Waters, the legendary chef who birthed healthy cuisine at Chez Panisse, to bring a seasonal Peach and Goat Cheese Salad to its menus. For the iconic chain built on the promise of scalable sustainability, landing Waters is the ultimate co-sign. For Waters, it is a direct line to the office workers and commuters she has spent decades trying to reach outside of Berkeley.
The salad itself is a stripped-back, summer-heavy assembly. It pairs ripe peaches with fresh goat cheese, built over a base of shredded kale and arugula. Mint leaves and roasted almonds add texture, while a simple cucumber-tomato mix rounds out the bowl. It is dressed in a basic balsamic vinaigrette. There are no trendy grains here; the success of the dish focuses on the balance of ripe fruit with crisp leafy greens. The brand announced the new salad on Instagram, with the caption, "Every bite gives back." Fans went wild over the announcement, with comments ranging from "ICONIC!!!!" to "Obsessed."
The real engine of the collaboration is a worthy cause: a portion of the proceeds from every salad sold goes directly to The Edible Schoolyard Project, the non-profit Waters founded in 1995 at Berkeley’s King Middle School. The organization integrates organic gardening and kitchen education into public school curriculums, arguing that food education is a core academic subject.
View this post on InstagramBy tying the menu item to school lunch reform, sweetgreen is attempting to claw back some of its original, mission-driven credibility. Critics of the company say it has faced the inevitable pressures of a public corporation, often pushing it closer to standard fast-food mechanics than local farm networks. This partnership positions the brand as a bridge between agricultural activism and the reality of a twenty-minute lunch break.
Whether the partnership can shift systemic food access remains an open question. But by leveraging Waters' culinary authority, sweetgreen is enabling a conversation about food education into the middle of the corporate lunch rush. The salad is available nationwide on the sweetgreen app and website for a limited time through the peak of the summer peach season.
'Full House' Star Jodie Sweetin Reflects on Her Relationship With the Olsen Twins and Their Private Lives
It's been more than 30 years since the end ofFull House, and Jodie Sweetin looks back at the relationship she had with Mary-Kate Olsen and Ashley Olsen as children and where they are now as adults.
Sweetin played the older sister to the Olsen twins on Full House when they were only six and three years old. The actor reveals on a recent appearance on The McBride Rewind podcast that growing up beyond the young characters they once were changed their dynamic as friends.
As kids on the show, Sweetin revealed that the Olsen twins would often spend the night at her house and even join her and her parents on a weekend trip to their cabin. They would do everything from horseback riding to Disneyland, and even play dress-up. Sweetin admits that over the years, the reality of fame at a young age drifted them apart.
“I think after Full House and growing up and everything, they’ve had an extremely different trajectory than any of the rest of us. They were 8 years old when the show finished. If you knew somebody the first eight years of your life, and then you sort of drifted away, like, how many people do you still talk to from that? It’s not like it’s a bad thing," explained Sweetin.
She added that the Olsen twins also likely had less recollection of their time on Full House compared to everyone else. Due to having starred on the show since being infants, Sweetin believes they only had a few years of really remembering "and then moved on and did a whole host of other things in their life."
In the years following the end of the series, the Olsen twins became known for preferring life away from the spotlight as they grew older after being known as teen icons. For Sweetin, she believes it was their decision due to having worked their entire childhood and not having moments to be normal.
“Those girls worked their entire childhood. They did not have as many advocates making sure that they had a balanced childhood,” she explained. “So I can only imagine that their experience was very different than mine or Candace’s. We would take a hiatus, and I’d get a few months off. I’d go be a kid, we’d go on vacation, we’d do these things. And they would be doing movies, and the mystery series, and product launches, and all of this stuff. And it was a lot. It was a lot for them.”
Sweetin adds that they likely came to a point of realization that they didn't want to be doing this forever and wanted a way out. For Sweetin, the Olsen twins are "very private people because they lost that. And so I think they fiercely protect that privacy."
Elvis Broke One of His Biggest Hollywood Rules for This Movie
For more than three decades, Elvis Presley starred in dozens of Hollywood films, but only one gave fans a look they never saw before or since.
Released in 1969, Charro! remains the only movie in which Presley appeared with facial hair, sporting a rugged beard as he took on the role of former outlaw Jess Wade. The film also marked another major departure from the formula that had defined nearly all of his movie career.
Unlike the musical comedies that made Presley a box office staple throughout the 1960s, Charro! was a straight Western. Aside from performing the title song over the opening credits, Presley didn't sing at all during the film, making it the only movie of his career without an on-screen musical performance.
The change was intentional. After years of starring in lighthearted films packed with songs, Presley hoped Charro! would allow him to prove himself as a serious dramatic actor.
Instead, the movie received mixed reviews from critics upon its release.
Varietycriticized the film's slow pacing and screenplay, arguing that the script gave Presley little to work with despite his efforts in the leading role. Other reviewers suggested the film never fully capitalized on the dramatic direction it promised.
Even so, Charro! has become something of a curiosity among Elvis fans over the years.
Beyond the beard and the absence of musical numbers, it was also the only Presley film produced by National General Pictures. It featured a grittier, spaghetti Western-inspired score by composer Hugo Montenegro. It leaned into a more serious tone than audiences had come to expect from the King of Rock 'n' Roll's Hollywood output.
Although Charro! never achieved the lasting popularity of classics like Blue Hawaii, Viva Las Vegas or Jailhouse Rock, it occupies a unique place in Presley's filmography.
More than five decades later, the movie remains a fascinating and rare glimpse at the dramatic actor he hoped to become and the only time fans ever saw the music legend sporting a beard on the big screen.
RELATED: The Kinks Founders Reunite Thanks to One Unforgettable Photo
