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75 Gorgeous Girl Names That Start With 'G'
Choosing the name of your newborn can be one of the heaviest and simultaneously most exciting decisions of your life. There are countless options, from timeless vintage names to more modern variations and everything in between.
Many families like to provide their children with names that all begin with the same letter. It’s an adorable way to foster unity between siblings for some families. And for others, they might just like the sound or look of a specific letter. So if that's you but with the 7th letter of the alphabet, and you're expecting a daughter, then you're in the right place because we gathered a list of eye-catching girl names that start with "G"!
Whether you’re looking for unique girl names that begin with the letter “G” or a short moniker that rolls off the tongue, we’ve done all of the research so you don’t have to. In addition to providing you with 75 gorgeous letter “G” girl names to consider, we’ve also included their origins and meanings so you can make your decision with knowledge and confidence.
While you might have your heart set on a certain baby name, there are many different variations, spellings and origins that you may not have initially considered, which you might learn about and love even more.
Keep reading to discover which of these girl "G" names are your favorites!
Related:125 Charming Baby Girl Names That Start With ‘C’ and What They Mean
75 Best Girl Names That Start With 'G'Canva/Parade
- Greta — With German and Scandinavian origins, the name Greta means "pearl."
- Gloria — Of Latin origins and Christian historical tradition, this name means "glory," "fame" or "renown."
- Georgina — The feminine form of the masculine name George, this Greek name means "farmer" or "earth worker."
- Gwyneth — Stemming from Celtic history, this name means "blessed," "happy," "white" or "fair."
- Gracelynn — A modern American combination of the Latin name Grace and the Welsh suffix -lyn, the name Gracelynn means "graceful lake" or "Grace by the lake."
- Ginger — As a nickname for the English Virginia, this name means "pure." Inspired by the spice, it means "pep" or "liveliness."
- Gretchen — This German name means "pear" or "little pearl."
- Glenda — Of Welsh origins, this name means "holy and good" or "clean goodness," while its Gaelic origins hold the meaning of "valley."
- Gabriella — With Italian and Hebrew roots, this name means "God is my strength" or "heroine of God."
- Gelsey — Meaning "flower" or "jasmine," the name Gelsey has both English and Persian origins.
- Giabella — This modern Italian name means "beautiful grace" or "gracious beauty."
- Genoa — Linked to the Latin wordianua, this name means "door" or "passage."
- Geneva — With French and Latin roots, the name Geneva means "juniper tree" or "bending river."
- Gianella — Meaning "God is gracious," this name has Italian, Greek and Hebrew origins.
- Gracyn — A modernized variant of the name Grace, Gracyn holds the meaning of elegance and goodwill.
- Gertrude — This German name means "strong spear" or "spear of strength."
- Giulietta — With both Latin and Italian roots, this name means "youthful."
- Grainne — This Irish name is pronounced "GRAWN-ya" and means either "grain" or "charm."
- Gabrielle — Meaning "God is my strength" or "hero of God," Gabrielle is the French feminine form of the Hebrew name Gabriel.
- Giselle — With French and German origins, this name means "pledge" or "promise."
- Glory — Derived from the Latin word gloria, the name Glory means "honor," "fame," "splendor" or "renown."
- Gloriana — A more elaborate form of the name Gloria, Gloriana is Latin and means "glory" or "fame."
- Galilea — This feminine Hebrew name means "from Galilee" or "district of nations." It is derived from the Hebrew word for "circle," "circuit" or "province."
- Giannah — Meaning "God is gracious" or "God has shown favor," this moniker holds Italian roots.
- Giuliana — The Italian feminine form of Julian or Julius, this name means "youthful" or "young."
Related: Go Ahead and Toss Out Your Old List—Here Are 300+ Unique Baby Names From the Last Decade!
Unique Girl Names That Start With 'G'Canva/Parade
- Gwendolyn — This Welsh name means "white ring," "blessed ring" or "fair bow."
- Giada — This Italian name means "jade" and signifies the green gemstone.
- Geraldine — The German feminine form of the name Gerald, Geraldine means "spear ruler" or "ruler with a spear."
- Gudrun — Meaning "divine secret," this Norse moniker is pronounced "GOOD-run."
- Guinevere — This literary famous name from King Arthur is of Welsh origins and means "white fairy," "white phantom" or "fair one."
- Guendalina — This Italian name means "white ring" and holds connotations of beautiful purity.
- Gretel — Meaning "pearl" or "little pearl," this precious name holds both German and Dutch origins.
- Grey — Gender-neutral and of British and Old English origins, this name means "grey-colored" or "grey-haired."
- Gitty — A diminutive of the Yiddish names Gittel or Gitl, this name means "good" or "blessed."
- Gemini— Derived from the Latin word for "twins," the name Gemini is primarily rooted in astronomy and mythology and symbolizes duality and balance.
- Galia — The Hebrew origins of this name mean "wave," "wave of God" or "God shall redeem," while its Slavic roots hold the meanings of "calm" or "serene."
- Gersemi — With Norse origins, this name means "treasure" and is pronounced "GER-sem-ee."
- Gia — A diminutive of Italian names such as Gianna or Giovanna, Gia means "God is gracious."
- Grecia — Of Latin and Greek origins, this name means "Greece" and includes the symbolism of rich culture.
- Genesis — This ancient Greek name means "creation," "birth" or "origin."
- Gardenia — Of English and Scottish origins, the name Gardenia means "Garden's flower."
- Gwyneira — Meaning "white snow," this beautiful Welsh name is pronounced "gwin-AY-ra."
- Greer — A gender-neutral Scottish name, Greer means "alert" or "watchful."
- Gioconda — In Italian, this name means "joyful one" and is pronounced "jo-KON-da."
- Ginevra — A strong Italian name, Ginevra means "white phantom," "white spirit" or "fair one."
- Galadriel — This popular literary name means "radiant garland" and was made widely known by J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings.
- Gratiana — Meaning "grace" in Latin, this name is pronounced "gra-tee-AH-na."
- Genevieve — This French name is derived from the Celtic and Welsh name Guinevere and means "woman of the family" or "tribe woman."
- Galatea — This Greek name means "white as milk" and holds connotations of innocence.
- Gentry — An English name with Old French origins, Gentry is a gender-neutral name that means "well-born," "noble" or "aristocracy."
Related: 210 Adorable Baby Names That Mean ‘Love’ for Your Sweet Boy or Girl
Cute Girl Names That Start With 'G'Canva/Parade
- Gemma — With Latin and Italian roots, the name Gemma means "gem," "jewel" or "precious stone."
- Giovanna — Meaning "God is gracious" or "God has been gracious," this is the Italian feminine form of the name Giovanni.
- Gaia — An ancient Greek name inspired by nature, Gaia means "earth" or "land."
- Gina — With Italian, Latin and Greek origins, Gina is most often used as a diminutive of names such as Regina, meaning "queen," Georgina meaning "farmer," or Eugenia meaning "well-born."
- Grace — Derived from the Latin word gratia, this name means "favor," "blessing" or "charm."
- Golda — Symbolizing wealth and warmth, this Yiddish and English name means "gold."
- Gabby — With Hebrew roots and as a diminutive of the name Gabrielle, Gabby means "God is my strength" or "hero of God."
- Gigi — As a German nickname for Giselle, Gigi means "pledge." It is also a nickname for the Greek Georgina or Georgette and means "farmer" or "earth-worker."
- Gitana — Meaning "wanderer" in Spanish, this mystical name is pronounced "hee-TA-na."
- Gillian — Tied to the Roman god Jupiter, Gillian is derived from the name Julianus and means "youthful" or "downy-bearded."
- Gwen — This pretty Welsh name means "white," "fair," "holy" or "blessed."
- Gianni — An Italian name that means "God is gracious," Gianni stems from the Hebrew name Yochanan.
- Graciela — This Spanish name means "grace," "favor" or "blessing" and holds connotations of delicate elegance.
- Gabie — A diminutive of the Hebrew name Gabriella, Gabie means "God is my strength."
- Georgia — A feminine form of the name George, this Greek name means "farmer" or "earth-worker."
- Gala — With Spanish and Italian roots, this name means "festive celebration" or "joyful party."
- Georgiana — With English and Greek origins, Georgiana is another feminine form of the name George and also means "farmer" or "earth-worker."
- Goldy — Symbolizing high value, this English and Yiddish name means "gold," "golden" or "made of gold."
- Griselda — This strong German name means "grey battle."
- Graylynn — A modern English name combining the color gray with the suffix -lynn, this name means "gray lake" or "gray land."
- Giulia — An Italian variant of the English name Julia, Giulia means "youth" or "youthful."
- Gracie — With English and Latin origins, this name means "grace," favor" or "blessing."
- Geanna — Of ancient Greek and Hebrew origins, the name Geanna means "God is gracious."
- Gladys — Derived from the ancient Welsh name Gwladys or Gwladus, this name means "princess" or "ruler."
- Galena — Pronounced "go-LEE-na," this Greek name means "calm" or "healer."
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The Best 'Black Mirror' Episode, Inspired by a 1987 Rock Song, Was Written in Only 4 Days
“San Junipero” was the fourth episode in season three of Black Mirror, which is currently streaming on Netflix. The episode won two Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Television Movie and Outstanding Writing for a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie. TV Line also recently named it the best Black Mirror episode.
The episode, which was written by the creator and showrunner Charlie Brooker in four days, was originally going to have an unhappy ending, culminating in a scene that took place in a hospital. However, Brooker told the Daily Beast, “When I sat down to actually write it, I was enjoying it so much that I thought, no, I'm going to keep going.”
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The ending of the episode was inspired by the 1987 song, “Heaven Is a Place on Earth,” which Brooker immediately knew he wanted to license for the episode. The song, sung by Belinda Carlisle, played at the beginning of the episode and over the ending credits.
When speaking about the inclusion of the song, he told Entertainment Weekly, ”I started writing the script, and I put together a Spotify playlist of music from 1987. I go running every so often, and that song came on while I was jogging. I was like, ‘Well, that’s gotta go in.’ And that basically gave me the ending scene. So one of the first things we did is check if we could clear this song [for use in the episode], and I would have been absolutely distraught if we couldn’t have done it."
He continued, "It’s something we’ve done in previous episodes, where we have a story continuing to unfold throughout the end credits, but it’s the only time we do it in this season. It feels like a nice way of adding an extra coda. It’s also a wry joke in a way that heaven is literally a place on earth, as we reveal the absolute cold reality of what’s going on. Hopefully, it leaves people with a smile on their face, which is an alien experience after watching Black Mirror.”
Related: 1960 ‘The Twilight Zone’ Episode Ranked Among ‘Best Endings Ever Written’ Was the Hardest To Film
When answering questions on Reddit along with executive producer Annabel Jones, he spoke about the fact that the episode resonated so much with the LGBTQ+ community and TV lovers in general. “We've been delighted by the response to it,” he replied. “We see it as a universal love story--the fact it's about two women is both significant and insignificant. Significant in that they [SPOILER ALERT!] get married in 1987, which wasn't possible at that time in reality, and that kind of chimed in with the whole theme of reliving your life and exploring possibilities afresh. And insignificant in that it's a love story between two people. So it's been great to see a positive reaction from across the board.”
On This Day in 1978, the Manufacturing of This Famous Rock Album Is Halted Due to Celebrities Featured on the Cover
Go into your record collection and check your vinyl copy of Some Girls - you just might be holding a rare version with discontinued cover art.
On this day (July 5) in 1978, the manufacturing of Some Girls by The Rolling Stones was halted at EMI's pressing plant after celebrities featured in mock advertisements on the album sleeve - including Lucille Ball, Farrah Fawcett, Liza Minnelli (representing her mother Judy Garland), Raquel Welch, and the estate of Marilyn Monroe - threatened legal action.
When the band released Some Girls on June 9, 1978, no one expected the cover to cause more controversy than the music. The sleeve, designed by Peter Corriston and illustrated by Hubert Kretzschmar, featured an elaborate die-cut design inserting the faces of the Rolling Stones alongside famous female celebrities into a vintage advertisement. Visually striking? Yes. But there was one small problem - nobody had asked permission. The stars were furious, many feeling the album made a mockery of their appearance.
The album was quickly reissued with a redesigned cover removing all the celebrities (whether they had complained or not), replacing them with punk-style garish colors and the phrase "Pardon our appearance, cover under reconstruction." (*Mick Jagger later ran into Liza Minnelli at Studio 54 and personally apologized.) Notably, the only celebrity whose face was not removed was former Beatle George Harrison. Valmor Products also took legal action and received an undisclosed cash award for unauthorized use of their ad design.
Despite the drama, Some Girls became one of the Stones' greatest triumphs. It was not merely a record but a cultural artifact: a vivid document of its time that redefined rock music with its infusion of disco and punk sounds. It hit number one on the US Billboard 200 and earned The Stones their only Grammy nomination for Album of the Year. Turns out the band was prophetic - *The title track does include the line "Some Girls take my money…".
A little controversy never hurt anyone. Except maybe their legal bills.
Bryan Cranston Gets Hilariously Roasted for His Old Phone: ‘Is This the Same Phone U Had in Breaking Bad'
Bryan Cranston played an iconic role in the AMC series Breaking Bad, but the beloved actor has fans thinking he hasn't upgraded his phone since then.
Cranston, 70, made us laugh on Seinfeld and Malcolm in the Middle, but made television history in his role as Walter White on Breaking Bad, which ran from 2008 to 2013 on AMC. The show follows a high school science teacher facing cancer who turns to making meth and becomes a kingpin, and Cranston showcased a talent playing White that earned him endless awards.
But in a new video celebrating America's 250th birthday on the Fourth of July, Cranston had followers hilariously roasting him thanks to his low phone quality. While the star shared a poignant message for the holiday, the fuzzy phone quality sent comments into a fury of jokes. The responses will have you gasping for air with laughter.
Check it out below:
View this post on Instagram The Comments Section Was HilariousIn the comments section, fans and followers were lovingly roasting Cranston for the low quality of his phone.
"rumor has it today is also the 300th birthday of Bryan’s phone," one person said.
"Is this the same phone u had in breaking bad," another person chimed in.
"Bro filmed this on a pimento cheese sandwich," a commenter shared.
"Bros recording using gus’s camera in the lab," said a BB fan, referencing the haunting character played by Giancarlo Esposito.
"Yoo heisenberg you short on money gang time to upgrade your phone," another BB fan said, referencing his character's alter ego.
"I think you accidentally used your "other phone"...," someone added.
"The higher quality the person the lower quality the phone," one sweet fan laughed.
Bryan Cranston’s Daughter, Taylor Dearden, Stars on The PittClearly, talent runs in the family. Cranston’s daughter, Taylor Dearden, is a rising star in her own right. The actress, 33, has earned raves as Dr. Mel King on the hit HBO medical series The Pitt. Cranston couldn’t be more thrilled.
“Well, Taylor is a wonderful, hard-working actor,” Cranston told Craig Melvin during a recent appearance on TODAY. “She grew up in this business with my wife and I being actors. And so, we’re so proud of her.”
Cranston went on to say that there’s nothing better than hearing his daughter is thriving.
“When I hear praise for Taylor’s work on The Pitt, it means more to me than anything anyone could ever say to me about my work,” he said. “You know, you’re a proud dad. And I’m OK. I could retire after you hear that.”
Dearden’s mother, actress Robin Dearden, is also overwhelmed with pride for her daughter.
“There is nothing more gratifying than when your kid receives praise. Nothing,” Cranston told the Associated Press, of what he and his wife believe about their daughter’s success. “No one can say anything to me that’s better than that.”
“Her mom and I are just over the moon with her work on it,” he noted.
‘Jerry Maguire’ Star Jonathan Lipnicki, 35, Is So Handsome With His Stunning Girlfriend on the 4th
Jonathan Lipnicki was just a little kid in Jerry Maguire, but the actor is a handsome adult alongside his girlfriend while celebrating the 4th of July.
Lipnicki, 35, skyrocketed to superstardom at age 5 alongside Tom Cruise and Renee Zellweger in the iconic film Jerry Maguire. For those of you who don’t remember the legendary Cameron Crowe-directed film, the romantic-comedy-drama follows a sports agent who loses his job, leaves the office in a dramatic exit, and takes a low-level employee, named Dorothy Boyd (played by Zellweger), along for the ride. Lipnicki, of course, played Boyd’s adorable son. Spoiler alert: Maguire and Boyd fall in love, as you’d expect.
But in a new photo shared to his Instagram Stories, Lipnicki showed how far he's come since his days in the iconic '90s film. While he still boasts a classic smile and blonde hair, it's safe to say he's all grown up. He was joined for the holiday cruise by a lady friend, whose name was not provided.
"Happy 250th America," the text on the fun photo reads.
(Instagram/Jonathan Lipnicki)
The Advice Lipnicki Would Give HimselfWorking hard on his acting career, Lipnicki recently shared on his Instagram page the advice he’d give himself early on in his career.
View this post on Instagram He’s Looking to Get His Career on TrackWhile Lipnicki thrived as a child star, the transition years were a bit challenging.
“I had some really good things that happened when I was younger,” he told PEOPLE earlier this year. Still, he feels at peace with his situation. “It’s totally fine to say I’m not where I want to be career-wise. Everything we’re doing in this life is nearly impossible.”
Lipnicki intentionally cut back on work during high school so he could experience the years fully. He says he has “no regrets” about doing that and went on to study acting after. Now, he’s ready to tackle his career head-on.
“And I pray every night for clarity on where I need to go, and I’m confident the best is yet to come for me,” he told the publication. “And I think you just have to believe that. If you’re going to pursue this, you’re doing yourself a disservice not to dream big.”
He’s Got Several Irons in the FireLuckily, Lipnicki has been able to be choosy about the projects he picks.
“To be quite honest, I said no to about five movies in the last year,” he continued. “I just really want to turn this ship around.”
He completed 10 episodes of TBS’s The Joe Schmo Show and appeared alongside Ron Perlman in Cottonmouth. But he also has a burgeoning career as a producer. Last year, he announced on Instagram that production wrapped on Dog Years, calling the film “a contemporary romance that explores early adulthood, identity, and love over time.”
“We can’t wait to share it with you!” Lipnicki noted.
View this post on InstagramRelated: ‘Jerry Maguire’ Child Star Jonathan Lipnicki Turns 35 and Is as Handsome as Ever
An Important Man in Taylor Swift’s Life Died on Her Wedding Day
Taylor Swift’s wedding to Travis Kelce on July 3rd occurred on the same day that someone close to the singer passed away. Kirk Schwabe, who taught her criminal justice at Hendersonville High School in Nashville and worked as her security guard, died after a battle with metastatic kidney cancer. When Swift appeared in the 2010 comedy, Valentine’s Day, her character’s teacher was named Mr. Schwabe in honor of her favorite teacher.
On June 2, Schwabe’s daughter posted on Facebook to say, “Over the past several weeks, his health has declined rapidly, and he has now been moved to hospice care. If you know my dad, you know he has poured his heart into everything he’s done. He has always loved teaching. He loves his students.”
Related:‘Gidget’ Star Dead of Natural Causes at 92
According to Page Six, the post from Sarah Gordon included a photo of the singer. “Gordon posted a photo of Swift with her dad while holding a framed record plaque commemorating the release of her 2006 self-titled debut album, Taylor Swift,” the outlet reported.
Schwabe spoke with The Telegraph about Swift in an interview published on July 2, stating that he thought Kelce was the right partner for her. “I do trust Taylor’s judgment. She knows what’s best,” he said. “I told her, you’re a superstar. This is not fun and games no more. You are it. Everything keeps going up and up and up, and the sky’s the limit for you.”
Related:‘Mad Max’ Star Dead at 76
Schwabe started as a police officer in Chicago, then became an educator who taught Swift from 2004 to 2006, when she was in her teen years. He worked as her security guard for a while before leaving the job after becoming burnt out. He once admitted that her fame caused some panic and said, "If anything happens, I’m the guy. We got four or five hundred people in here, and I got some extra security guards, but I don’t know a lot of these guys who got hired. I don’t know what their qualifications are.”
Schwabe's wife, Jane, also spoke about her husband's connection to the singer, saying, “He treated [Swift] like he did his daughters.”
Why Barbara Eden Thought She Was Completely Wrong for 'I Dream of Jeannie'
It’s hard to imagine anyone other than Barbara Eden in the starring role of I Dream of Jeannie. But the actress herself wasn’t originally sure she would be a good fit for the role in the iconic 1960s sitcom.
Eden, 94, played the mischievous blonde genie opposite Larry Hagman’s astronaut character, Major Tony Nelson, for five seasons on the NBC fantasy comedy, from 1965 to 1970. She became famous for her signature eye blink and belly-baring chiffon harem outfit, but initially assumed an exotic-looking brunette would be hired for the part.
In a new interview, Eden told People magazine she “didn't audition” for the role of Jeannie but knew the type of women who were in the running.
“They had every tall brunette, winner of many beauty contests, they were testing,” she told the outlet. “I thought, 'Oh, it's not for me.' The Middle Eastern girl, and that's what they wanted. I'm a blonde, short blonde.“
Eden added that her agent sent her a script and told her that series creator, Sidney Sheldon, wanted her for the role.
"He said, 'You have the part,’” Eden recalled. “And I said, 'Do they know what I look like?'”
Once she accepted the role, Eden found out unexpected news.
“I was so happy during those years. I was doing what I wanted to do to make my living,” she once told Buzzfeed. “My husband (Michael Ansara), at the time, and I really wanted to have a baby, and it wasn't happening, Then NBC picked up I Dream of Jeannie, and we got pregnant!"
“I didn't expect to stay in the show, and I really didn't care at that time,” she admitted. “I was just so happy to have a baby.”
During an appearance on the I Choose Me with Jennie Garth, Eden noted that she found out about her pregnancy on the same day she was told that Jeannie was going to go on the air. She immediately called Sheldon, fully expecting that her role would be recast.
“I sat down there with a big grin on my face and said, ‘You know, I'm pregnant, and I can't do your show. I just had to let you know so you could recast it,’“ she recalled telling the showrunner.
Sheldon said he still wanted to see if it could all be worked out, and in the end, producers decided to hide Eden’s pregnancy with strategic props and flowy clothing to cover her belly.
Eden was nominated for two Golden Globe Awards for her role in I Dream of Jeannie.
Related: Erin Murphy Announces New TV Show 54 Years After ‘Bewitched’
AMC CEO Leaks, Then Deletes, Inside Details From Taylor Swift's Wedding
For a few hours on Friday night, the internet knew more about Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding than it was supposed to. The couple had wrapped their Madison Square Garden ceremony in phone bans, staff NDAs and a press blackout tight enough that reporters camped outside for days without a single confirmed detail. Then AMC Theatres CEO Adam Aron posted a lengthy account of what he saw inside, and deleted it almost as fast as it went up.
By then it was too late. Screenshots had already spread across X and Reddit, and outlets from TMZ to CNN were reading portions of his post on air by Saturday morning. Aron, who oversaw the theatrical release of Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour, opened with, "It was such a privilege to be THERE," before describing how Madison Square Garden had been transformed for the night. "Immediately upon entry, everything ... floors, walls, ceiling ... was draped in peach and white," he wrote, adding that oversized photos of Swift and Kelce at every age lined the space. He said the arena floor had been reworked into "an outdoor garden at a lush countryside retreat," with real flowers and roughly 75 chairs arranged in fifteen rows, despite a reported guest count near 1,000.
Aron went further, describing the ceremony itself as "long, entertaining, personal, charming, emotional, irreverent and endearing," and calling the couple's love "no small love." He didn't name the officiant, though a release afterward confirmed it was Adam Sandler, and Aron left out most performer names as well. What he did make clear was how tightly the event had been locked down before his post exposed a piece of it. Bloomberg's Myles Miller reported that Madison Square Garden had already parted ways with staff members over NDA violations, and that every phone, including law enforcement's, was bagged at the door.
Related: Knicks Radio Host Caught on Hot Mic Dismissing Taylor Swift at NBA Finals
The timing of Aron's slip gave a ravenous public a taste of the info they wanted. Reporters and fans had spent days working off nothing but delivery trucks and closed streets, and Good Morning America's own anchors had appeared to sidestep questions about what they'd seen while attending.
Aron's account still hasn't been confirmed or denied by representatives for Swift or AMC. But between the leaked details and the official statement that followed, confirming the Dior gowns, the Sandler officiating and a reported $26 million in wedding-weekend charitable donations, the wedding that was built to stay private ended up publicly detailed within a day, thanks in part to the very executive whose company helped make Swift a movie-theater fixture in the first place.
This Specific Travel Insurance Upgrade Is Spiking by 30% This Summer
If you're currently mapping out a major vacation or locking down a high-ticket international itinerary, you might want to take a closer look at the fine print on your travel insurance policy.
With record-breaking heat domes across Europe forcing abrupt, mid-day closures of major attractions like the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower—and even causing infrastructure failures that have halted ticket sales at Florence's Uffizi Galleries—travelers are completely rethinking how they protect their trip investments.
Data from Squaremouth, the nation's largest travel insurance marketplace, reveals a massive shift in what people are looking for before they head to the airport.
Related: How to Navigate Extreme Heat in Europe This Summer—and Is It Time for a ‘Coolcation’?
View this post on InstagramOver the last three months, the marketplace fielded more than 2,700 customer service calls specifically about a premium upgrade known as "Cancel For Any Reason" (CFAR) coverage, which now accounts for over a quarter of all their customer interactions. It tracks with a broader trend across the industry, with searches for the benefit spiking nearly 30% compared to last year.
The reality of standard trip cancellation insurance is that it only kicks in for very specific, contractually defined emergencies, like a sudden medical crisis or a severe weather event that completely halts operations.
If you simply change your mind, feel uneasy about a destination, or have a scheduling conflict, a basic policy leaves you completely on the hook. CFAR fixes that loophole by putting the decision entirely back in your hands, reimbursing up to 75% of your prepaid, non-refundable trip costs no matter why you decide to stay home.
Related: Why Everyone Is Swapping the Mediterranean for a ‘Coolcation’ Cruise This Summer
When looking closely at why travelers are suddenly flooding phone lines to secure this upgrade, Squaremouth uncovered five very distinct, real-world anxieties driving the trend:
Geopolitical instability and global conflicts are the top concern, driving a third of all inquiries from travelers who want the freedom to pull the plug if they no longer feel safe heading to a specific region.
Another 27% of callers are simply staring down the general unpredictability of the future, unwilling to risk thousands of dollars on an expensive trip booked months in advance when "life happens." Work-related uncertainty—like shifting corporate deadlines or unapproved PTO—accounts for 21% of queries, while 11% are managing the logistics of caring for aging parents or family members with pre-existing medical conditions.
Interestingly, the final 8% are travelers who have simply been burned by a previous insurance claim denial and are opting for CFAR specifically to avoid the standard paperwork headache altogether.
"Cancel For Any Reason isn't for every trip, but it's the one benefit that puts the cancellation decision entirely in the traveler's hands," says Chrissy Valdez, Senior Director of Operations at Squaremouth.
So, how do you know if it's actually worth the extra investment for your next getaway? The upgrade does come with a premium, typically adding about 40% to the base cost of a standard plan.
Industry experts suggest asking yourself a few quick questions: Is your destination currently dealing with political turmoil or active travel advisories? Are you worried about an exclusion that standard plans won't touch, like a named storm? Or are you just generally uncomfortable with the current travel climate and want an absolute safety net?
If you answer yes to those, the extra layer of protection is likely worth the peace of mind. Otherwise, if your primary worries are straightforward medical emergencies or standard job losses, a classic, less expensive policy will usually have you completely covered.
Related: Disneyland Paris Suspends Outdoor Attractions Amid Historic Heat Wave This Week
We Asked 5 Chefs Their Favorite One-Pan Meals—and They're Anything but Basic
One-pan meals have become the unofficial heroes of weeknight cooking. They save time, keep the sink from overflowing with dishes and somehow make the idea of cooking dinner feel just a little less daunting after a long day. And if you think the phrase "one-pan meal" means bland meat and uninspired vegetables, the five chefs we spoke to are about to change your mind.
The real beauty of cooking everything in one pan isn't just the easy cleanup—it's the way the flavors build as everything cooks together. Those caramelized bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet? That's pure flavor. Potatoes nestled beneath a roasting chicken don't simply cook alongside it—they soak up the savory drippings that would otherwise be lost. Even yesterday's stale bread can become the foundation of a deeply comforting meal when it's given a second life in a flavorful broth.
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Professional chefs know these little tricks, and while they may spend their days cooking elaborate dishes in restaurants or for their clients, many turn to surprisingly simple one-pan meals when they're feeding themselves, their families or friends at home. They're comforting without being heavy, impressive without feeling fussy and practical enough for a Tuesday night without tasting like you phoned it in.
We asked five chefs to share the one-pan meal they come back to again and again. Their answers span everything from a fragrant South Indian chicken biryani passed down through family to rustic Tuscan bread soup that gives stale bread a delicious second life. Along the way, they also shared the smart techniques that make these dishes taste like they took far more effort than they actually do. Different cuisines, different techniques and different ingredients—but every one proves that cooking dinner in a single pan doesn't mean settling for ordinary.
Our Panel of ChefsThese are the five chefs we spoke to that shared their best one-pan meals.
- Erin O'Brien is the New York Times bestselling cookbook author of Dig In! O'Brien grew up in the restaurant business helping at her grandmother's Mexican restaurant in La Jolla, California.
- Aarthi Sampath is a Michelin star chef and founder of Drāvida, a New York-based restaurant celebrating South Asian diaspora cuisine. She has appeared on Food Network's Last Bite Hotel, and has been crowned champion on both Chopped and Beat Bobby Flay.
- Whitney Otawka is a chef and cookbook author of the highly acclaimed The Saltwater Table. Chef Otawka is a graduate of Le Cordon Bleu, the former culinary director at The Greyfield Inn on Cumberland Island and currently an education ambassador at Corto Olive in Lodi, California.
- Meg Walker is a Michelin star recipient and Le Cordon Bleu graduate and the chef behind the esteemed Made by Meg catering in Los Angeles.
- Brooke Bedell is a personal chef and the founder of Red Fennel Kitchen in Boston. She cooks for busy families, athletes and new parents, creating practical meals that fit real life.
Here are the one-pan meals these chefs swear by to help you lighten your cooking load.
1. One-Pan Chicken Marsala and OrzoCourtesy Erin O'Brien/ Photo byMatt Armendari!
Some one-pan dinners are all about convenience. Chef Erin O'Brien's favorite—chicken Marsala and orzo—is all about proving convenience and great flavor can go hand in hand.
The bestselling cookbook author says one-pan meals sometimes get an unfair reputation for being "kind of blah—like you're trading flavor for fewer dishes to wash," but Chef O'Brien's chicken Marsala and orzo was created to challenge that idea by building every layer of flavor in the same skillet. Chicken thighs crisp first, mushrooms soak up the rendered fat and Marsala wine reduces into a rich sauce that then gets absorbed by the orzo so that none of those savory flavors are wasted.
Her favorite technique starts before the pan is even hot. Rather than dropping the chicken into a preheated skillet, O'Brien places the thighs skin-side down in a cold pan and slowly raises the heat. According to the chef, "it renders the fat gently, so you get really crispy skin" before the remaining ingredients even touch the skillet.
It's the kind of small detail that makes the finished meal taste like something you'd order at a restaurant, even though it all comes together in a single pan in your kitchen. This one-pan chicken Marsala and orzo proves that fewer dishes doesn't have to mean sacrificing flavor.
2. South Indian Chicken Biryani View this post on InstagramSome one-pot meals fill your stomach. Others take you home again.
For Chef Aarthi Sampath, her mother's South Indian chicken biryani does both. Every Sunday, her family gathered on the floor to eat the Chettinad-style biryani while watching Mahabharat, one of India's most beloved television series. "The aroma of the caramelized onions, the spices and the fresh mint instantly takes me back to those afternoons," Sampath says. Today, it's still the dish she turns to whenever she wants to recreate a little piece of home.
The Chettinad style, which originated in the Chettinad region of Southern India, is known for its bold spices and deeply layered flavors.
At the heart of Sampath's family recipe is what she calls the real secret: a mountain of sliced red onions. More than two pounds of onions slowly cook down until they're deeply caramelized, creating a rich, sweet foundation for the biryani. Yogurt-marinated chicken joins green chilies, tomatoes, cilantro stems, fresh mint, and warming spices like cinnamon, cloves and green cardamom before fragrant rice is added. Everything steams together in a single pot, allowing the rice to absorb every layer of flavor.
The result is a meal that's deeply aromatic, comforting and surprisingly straightforward despite its complexity of flavor. "It's the dish I make whenever I want to feed family, friends or simply make myself feel at home," Sampath says. It's a one-pot dish that's equal parts comfort food and family tradition.
Related: I Asked 3 Chefs Their Favorite Way to Make Eggs, and They All Said the Same Thing
3. RibollitaBarbajones / Shutterstock.com
Sometimes the best one-pan meal starts with leftovers.
Chef Whitney Otawka's favorite one-pan meal is ribollita, a traditional Tuscan soup whose name literally translates to "reboiled." Originally created as a way to repurpose leftover vegetables, bean stews and stale bread, the humble dish has become one of Italy's most beloved comfort foods. White beans, carrots, lacinato kale, tomatoes, garlic, broth, Parmesan rind and torn pieces of rustic day-old bread slowly cook together until the bread practically melts into the soup, creating a rich, satisfying texture that's far greater than the sum of its parts.
For Otawka, ribollita is proof that simple ingredients often make the most memorable meals. "There is something luxurious about eating bread that has been bathing in an aromatic broth, olive oil and cheese for hours," she says. It's also a reminder that one-pan cooking isn't always about speed. Sometimes, it's about giving everyday ingredients enough time to transform into something special.
While Otawka's bread soup leans vegetarian apart from the chicken broth, other versions, like the one from Instagrammer Julius Roberts, add a heaping dose of pancetta for an additional dose of savory richness. No matter how you dress it up, this rustic comfort meal turns leftover soup and day-old bread into something rich, hearty and incredibly satisfying.
Photo by Cisco Lin on Unsplash
Few meals make a house feel like home quite the way a roasting chicken does, and Chef Meg Walker's version turns the roasting pan into part of the recipe.
Instead of cooking vegetables separately, Chef Walker surrounds the chicken with Yukon Gold or Red Bliss potatoes, halved shallots, and an entire head of garlic, all tossed with butter and fresh herbs. Before it goes in the oven, the chef bastes the bird outside and under the skin with unsalted butter and fresh-cut herbs.
As the chicken roasts, those vegetables slowly absorb the flavorful juices dripping from above, creating a complete meal without needing extra pots or pans. Fresh oranges tucked inside the bird add brightness while filling the kitchen with an aroma that's every bit as inviting as the finished dinner.
This is a one-pan meal perfect for entertaining. Chef Walker says it's one of her favorite meals because "it’s perfect any time of year, especially when you have company over because it fills the house with warmth and a yummy scent."
Her biggest tip is simple: don't rush it. Giving the chicken enough time in the oven allows the meat to stay juicy while the skin becomes beautifully crisp.
5. Red Pepper ShakshukaPhoto by AN Photography on Unsplash
Chef Brooke Bedell's favorite one-pan meal proves that eggs can be every bit as satisfying for dinner as they are for breakfast.
Her shakshuka begins with onions, peppers, zucchini, garlic, warm spices, tomatoes and spinach before eggs are cracked directly into the simmering sauce to gently poach. The result is colorful, hearty and flexible enough to work for breakfast, brunch or a quick weeknight dinner. Chef Bedell even suggests adding meatballs if you're looking for an extra boost of protein.
As a personal chef, Bedell appreciates meals that adapt to the people she's cooking for. She says that her reason for loving this dish is that "it's forgiving, it's loaded with vegetables without anyone feeling lectured and it tastes like you fussed when you didn't."
Her favorite tip is to create small wells in the sauce before adding the eggs, then keep an eye on the egg whites—not the clock. Removing the pan from the heat as soon as the whites set keeps the yolks perfectly runny.
3 Genius, Chef-Approved Ways to Simplify MealsAlthough their favorite dishes couldn't be more different, these chefs shared three ways to make cooking one-pot meals even easier.
1. Layer UpDragos Rusu / Getty Images
First, don't be afraid to build flavors in layers. Browning meat before adding vegetables or grains creates a flavorful base that carries through the entire meal.
2. Bring Everything TogetherGMVozd / Getty Images
Second, let your ingredients work together. Instead of cooking vegetables separately, allow them to roast beneath proteins or simmer in sauces where they'll naturally absorb extra flavor. It's one of the easiest ways to make a meal taste more complex without adding extra effort.
3. Follow Your SensesPeopleImages / Shutterstock.com
Finally, trust your senses more than the timer. Whether it's waiting for chicken skin to crisp naturally or watching egg whites instead of counting minutes, paying attention to what's happening in the pan often produces better results than following the clock alone. As Chef O'Brien points out, "even though it all happens in a single skillet, it's built on technique, not shortcuts."
Perhaps that's why one-pan meals continue to stand the test of time. They're easy enough for busy weeknights, satisfying enough for weekend dinners and, as these five chefs prove, anything but basic.
Jake Bongiovi Inspired This Romantic Scene in Millie Bobby Brown’s New Film
Millie Bobby Brown has been with Jake Bongiovi, the son of Jon Bon Jovi, for over five years. The pair got married in 2024 and adopted a child together in 2025. Recently, Brown revealed that a romantic scene in her new film, Enola Holmes 3, was inspired by a real gesture that her husband performs every night before bed. He braids her hair.
“That was my idea; I wrote that into the script,” Brown explained, when speaking about the scene with The Independent. “We had this big scene, and we were like, is it going to be a kiss that’s going to make the audience swoon? What is it?”
She continued, “My husband, at night, he braids my hair, and I think it is the most adorable, loving thing. I’m obsessed with the fact that he does that for me. And so I thought, that’s what I want to do.”
Related: ‘Stranger Things’ Star Reveals the Secret to His 8-Year Relationship, Which Started at Age 15
In the film, Louis Partridge plays her love interest. Partridge also appeared in the original Enola Holmes and Enola Holmes 2, as well as Paddington 2, Argylle, and House of Guinness. From 2023 until 2025, he was in a relationship with Olivia Rodrigo.
“I don’t think we could ever be awkward,” Partridge said when speaking about filming with Brown. “It’s been awesome growing up together because it’s like anything goes, in this fun, creative way. I’m not afraid to make a complete fool of myself, so that gives us license to mess around.”
Brown agreed, adding, “Sometimes we’ll be just about to kiss, and the director will ask us to hold there and stare at each other for two minutes. Those are the moments that I think, if it were a stranger, I would want to die. But with Lou, it’s easy.”
Related: ‘Minions’ Co-Creator Says Female Minions 'Would Be the Beginning of the End'
Enola Holmes 3 is currently streaming on Netflix. The mystery film, which is an adaptation of The Enola Holmes Mysteries by Nancy Springer, is about Enola attempting to get married when Sherlock Holmes disappears.
As one review on Rotten Tomatoes stated, “Light on story but lavishly designed with a romantic Maltese backdrop, the latest Holmes whodunit gifts us another compulsively watchable escapade."
Recalling the 2010 Taylor Swift Breakup Song and Her Relationship With John Mayer
The 2010 break-up ballad, "Dear John," from Taylor Swift's third studio album Speak Now, recalled her toxic relationship with John Mayer.
The musicians collaborated and dated when she was 19 years old, and he was 32. While neither publicly confirmed the romance, both released breakup tracks — Swift's "Dear John" and Mayer's "Paper Doll" — widely believed to be inspired by the short-lived relationship.
Swift called “Dear John” the “most scathing” song she has ever written in the prologue note included in her re-release of the album
The lyrics to "Dear John" seemingly refer to the couple's fallout, with some pointing to the line, "Don't you think nineteen is too young. To be played by your dark twisted games. When I loved you so?" as a strong indicator that the track is about Mayer.
Speaking to People about the song's inspiration, Swift declined to say who "Dear John" was about. "A lot of times when people's relationships end, they write an email to that person and say everything that they wish they would have said," she said in response, noting, "A lot of times they don't push send."
The singer added that the song was "a tough one to write" and that "putting it on the album was pushing send."
Asked in 2012 how he felt about the break-up track, John Mayer told Rolling Stone how affecting it was. “It made me feel terrible, because I didn’t deserve it. I’m pretty good at taking accountability now, and I never did anything to deserve that. It was a really lousy thing for her to do.”
He added that he never received a warning that she would release a song about him and how "humiliated" he felt while at a low point in his life. He felt that Swift mining past relationships for lyric inspiration was "cheap songwriting."
"I know she's the biggest thing in the world, and I'm not trying to sink anybody's ship, but I think it's abusing your talent to rub your hands together and go, 'Wait till he gets a load of this!' That's bulls—," he scathingly said.
Swift continued to shoot down the idea that "Dear John" is about Mayer. In a Glamour 2012 cover story aid: "How presumptuous! I never disclose who my songs are about."
The singer admitted she didn't read his comments about her but was aware they were less than positive. "I put a high priority on staying happy, and I know what I can't handle."
She continued, "It's not that I'm this egomaniac and I don't want to hear anything negative, because I do keep myself in check. But I've never developed that thick a skin. So I just kind of live a life, and I let all the gossip live somewhere else. If you go too far down the rabbit hole of what people think about you, it can change everything about who you are."
Related: John Mayer Breaks Down in Tears During His Eulogy for Grateful Dead's Late Bob Weir: Watch
Walmart’s ‘Super Fast’ E-Bike Is Now Nearly 50% Off, and It’s an 'Amazing' Way to Stay Active
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An e-bike is one of the simplest ways to add low-impact exercise to your routine. You can pedal when you want a workout and let the motor take over and cruise when you need a break, which lets you gradually build endurance at your own pace. The only downside is often the price — which is exactly why we love this Walmart deal so much. Right now, the 5th Wheel WLB17 26-Inch Electric Bike is marked down to $370 — nearly 50% off its original $700 price.
Beyond fitness, this commuter-style e-bike is built for everyday use. It's quick enough for short rides into town and comfortable enough for errands, making it a practical option for both exercise and transportation. It comes in two colors, black and white. Walmart shoppers love this model, with one calling it "reliable," "fast," and "easy to handle and maneuver."
5th Wheel WLB17 26-Inch Electric Bike, $370 (was $700) at Walmart Shop at WalmartIt runs on a 500W motor that reaches speeds up to 20 miles per hour and powers up inclines as steep as 25 degrees, which just means that the bike is powerful and can handle hilly terrain. That combination of speed and power may be why one shopper called it "amazing and super fast." The bike is also built with a high-carbon steel frame that supports riders up to 330 pounds.
It comes with a seven-speed gear system that adjusts to different terrain, whether you're climbing a hill or cruising on flat roads. It rolls on 26-inch pneumatic tires with a rear spring shock absorber, so bumps and rough pavement feel smooth. An LCD display keeps track of your speed, battery level, and distance as you ride.
Related: Walmart's 'Lovely' $11 Solar Hummingbird Wind Chime Is 'Truly Beautiful' at Night
The removable lithium battery covers up to 31 miles in full electric mode, or up to 48 miles when using pedal assist. Charging takes about six and a half hours. The bike arrives about 85% pre-assembled, which reviewers say keeps setup manageable at home. One Walmart shopper ordered it for her teen son and noted, "The bike was easy to put together and made very well."
For added safety, the bike has front and rear disc brakes plus an LED headlight and tail-light that come in handy after dark. It’s safety-certified and backed by a 12-month warranty.
At under $400, the 5th Wheel WLB17 26-Inch Electric Bike packs plenty of features into one ride, making it a standout at its current price. Deals like this don’t tend to last long, so it’s worth heading to Walmart soon if you want to snag one before it’s gone!
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.
1967 Rock Song, Written by a Band Member Who Was Kicked Out, Became an Early Hit for an Iconic Group
In 1967, 59 years ago today, Pink Floyd made their first television appearance. They performed “See Emily Play” on Top of the Pops, a BBC music program. “See Emily Play” was the group's second single, following “Arnold Layne."
The song, which was originally called “Games For May,” was written by Syd Barrett, who was the band’s original frontman. He claimed he was inspired by a girl he saw when he woke up in the woods after one of the band’s performances.
"I thought, gosh, that's nice, a song with my name, but I didn't think it was about me,” Emily Young, the woman whom many people believe the song was written about, told Mojo. “And I don't think it was now because Syd and me didn't have a love affair, and he didn't really know me. It could have been some other girl who played a part in his dream. It could have been Jenny, but Emily scanned better."
Nick Mason, the drummer for Pink Floyd, spoke about the song with Louder Sound. “The attraction of Emily is that, in some ways, it’s a jolly pop song,” he said. “But then there’s a slightly blue mood about it, the minor key. ‘Wistful’ is the word.”
When asked about the songwriting process for “See Emily Play,” Mason admitted the details were hazy. “Back then, we didn’t have a clear way of working, but we’d collaborate once presented with an idea and improvise until we got a song. Syd [Barrett] was prolific, and the subjects and sounds were a curious mix, but we were really happy to try anything. It was so interesting that Syd would write something folky like the 'Scarecrow' but also have a load of ideas and sounds to put into 'Interstellar Overdrive.'”
Related: 1964 One-Hit Wonder Became a No. 1 Song When the Singer Was Only 16
Unfortunately, Barrett was kicked out of the band in 1968 due to his erratic behavior. “It’s guesswork what happened,” Mason said. “It might have been a breakdown, the use of LSD… I think he wanted to go back to painting.”
Barrett went on to have a brief solo career before leaving the music industry in 1974. He died in 2006 of pancreatic cancer. He was 60.
Disneyland Just Reached 'Billionaire' Status—And the Way They Celebrated Will Give You Goosebumps
If you've ever strolled down Main Street, U.S.A., and paused to look up at the iconic Disneyland Railroad station, you have probably noticed the charming, old-school sign tracking the park's "population."
For over a decade, that number held steady at a staggering 650 million. But on July 3, 2026, that familiar landmark quietly changed forever, cementing a historic moment that very few places on the planet can ever claim.
Right in the middle of its massive 70th Celebration, and on the literal eve of America's 250th anniversary, the Disneyland Resort officially entered the "billionaire" club, welcoming its honorary one billionth lifetime guest through the gates.
Related: Disneyland Just Dropped a Major Summer Offer—And It's the Perfect Excuse for a Nostalgic Stay
The best part of the entire historic milestone? The unsuspecting family chosen for the honor had absolutely no idea it was coming. Eight-year-old Andres Robles of Arizona was simply walking into the park with his parents, Alejandra and Jose, expecting a normal, fun day out to celebrate his birthday.
Instead, the family was immediately swept up to the train station platform for a surprise ceremony alongside Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Disneyland Resort President Jill Estorino to help unveil the park's brand-new, jaw-dropping marker: "Population 1,000,000,000."
Related: Disneyland Reveals Its Fall Lineup, and Spoiler—It's Wicked Fun
"Welcoming our one billionth guest is a remarkable milestone for Disneyland Resort and a testament to the generations of guests who have made this special place part of their lives," Estorino shared in an official statement. "For more than 70 years, Walt's original park has been a timeless symbol of Disney storytelling, where memories are made and shared, and we are honored to carry that legacy forward for guests today and for generations to come."
To ring in the monumental occasion, the birthday boy and his family were handed the keys to the ultimate VIP treatment for the day. Led by a private tour guide, their dream itinerary featured exclusive, bucket-list experiences that regular park goers spend lifetimes trying to secure.
This included an intimate tour of Walt Disney’s deeply personal, private apartment hidden away above the Main Street Fire Station, alongside front-row access to the resort’s newest heavy hitters—including the freshly debuted Soarin’ Across America attraction over at Disney California Adventure.
Related: This Moving Detail Hidden in Disney’s New ‘Soarin’ Across America’ Has Us Emotional
It is a milestone that beautifully mirrors the explosive growth of Walt Disney's original 1955 "impossible dream." What started as a single, handcrafted theme park carved out of the Anaheim orange groves has blossomed into a multi-park global powerhouse, complete with two world-class theme parks, three resort hotels, and the bustling Downtown Disney District.
As the park gears up to welcome its next billion fans, it is clear that the foundational magic hasn't shifted a bit. The milestone functions as a beautiful reminder of Walt's timeless promise that Disneyland will never be completed, continuing to reinvent itself through groundbreaking technology and meticulous storytelling as long as there is imagination left in the world.
Related: Disneyland Is Offering a Rare Evening Ticket Deal This Summer
'70s TV Icon, Who Captivated Viewers Every Tuesday Night, Named the Greatest TV Character of the Decade
Ask anybody who grew up in the late 1970s and early 1980s what they did on a Tuesday night, and they'd likely tell you it involved the entire family gathered in the living room watching Happy Days. The Ron Howard, Tom Bosley, and Marion Ross-starring sitcom began as a family comedy with the coolest supporting character on television: Arthur Fonzarelli, better known as "Fonzie," played by Henry Winkler. Originally introduced as a humorous addition to the Cunningham family's story, Fonzie's popularity exploded. By Season 2, the lovable greaser had overshadowed the Cunninghams and evolved from a side character into the heart and soul of the series.
Henry Winkler's Fonzie Named the Greatest TV Character of the 1970shttps://www.youtube.com/shorts/B6uZyTHnGEs
A new ranking has named the greatest TV character of the 1970s. Despite legendary characters like Archie Bunker, played by Carroll O'Connor, and Hawkeye Pierce from MASH*, played by Alan Alda, being in contention, Winkler's leather-clad tough guy earned the top honor. Here's why:
"What made Fonzie such a brilliant character was that he wasn't a stereotypical bad boy, as biker characters were often portrayed in the media. Instead, Winkler brought an effortlessly cool, kind, and sympathetic greaser to the screen. Even with slicked-back hair and a leather jacket, audiences connected with his charm and confidence. By adding depth to the humble and slightly vulnerable character, Fonzie drifted away from cliché, allowing future performers the freedom to play and explore beyond the expected. From loner to mentor, even if the character lived in the past, he was the epitome of the present."
Why Fonzie Became a Pop Culture IconAt a time when television and film were shifting toward more youth-driven storytelling, Fonzie embodied a new kind of TV star. Cool, self-assured, instantly iconic, and known for catchphrases like "Ayyy!," Fonzie's leather jacket, motorcycle, and quiet vulnerability resonated because he balanced toughness with heart.
Unlike many rebellious characters of the era, Fonzie wasn't defined by intimidation or defiance. Instead, he became someone audiences admired for his loyalty, confidence, and willingness to help others. That combination made him one of television's most beloved and enduring characters.
How Happy Days Captured a GenerationAs Americans navigated the post-Vietnam War and post-Watergate years, Happy Days became one of the ultimate comfort watches of the late 1970s and early 1980s. The nostalgic sitcom attracted massive weekly audiences and secured its place in television history, but it was Winkler's portrayal of Fonzie that became its defining image.
The character reflected an idealized version of America's past while offering viewers an escape from the uncertainty of the present. For many fans, Fonzie represented confidence, optimism, and a simpler way of life.
Fonzie's Legacy Lives Onhttps://www.youtube.com/shorts/4UUGztknboI
Decades later, Fonzie remains one of television's greatest cultural touchstones. His influence can still be seen in modern sitcom characters who blend humor with emotional depth, while his signature look and catchphrases remain instantly recognizable across generations.
Perhaps that's why Arthur Fonzarelli continues to define what it means to be effortlessly cool. After all, not everyone could walk into a diner, smack a jukebox with a single fist, make the music start playing, and become a television legend.
Inside Bettina Trump's Understated, Endlessly Chic Summer Style
Say what you want about Bettina Trump’s politics, but the new Mrs. Donald Trump Jr.’s style isn’t up for debate. The Palm Beach socialite’s effortless chic looks are always on-point—from her bespoke silk Safiyaa wedding slip dress that gave major Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy vibes to the sleek black Elie Saab ensemble she wore for UFC Freedom 250 at the White House, the president’s daughter-in-law just doesn't miss.
With events galore leading up to and including the country’s 250th birthday, Bettina has been on the go and showing up in style. So what has Don Jr.’s new bride worn recently? Here are a few of her standout summer looks:
Father’s Day Weekend at Camp David View this post on InstagramThe Trump clan spent Father’s Day weekend at Camp David, and Bettina was photographed in a classically elegant (and surprisingly simple) white tank and flowy striped skirt. But that wasn’t the best ‘fit of the trip. Her lacey white button-down shirt dress (paired with a black bow-tied belt) stole the show.
The Maiden Flight of the New Air Force One (L/R) Eric Trump, Donald Trump Jr., and Bettina Trump look on as US President Donald Trump speaks to the press before he boards Air Force One. (Photo by SAUL LOEB / AFP via Getty Images)Several of the president’s children, along with key members of his administration, boarded the brand-new Air Force One for its first flight. Bettina’s tailored cream pants and a matching tunic top were the perfect pairing for this historic event.
The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Dedication Donald Trump Jr. (R) and his wife Bettina Anderson stand on the tarmac of Bismarck Municipal Airport before boarding Air Force One as they travel with US President Donald Trump to Bismarck, North Dakota, July 1, 2026. (Photo by SAUL LOEB / AFP via Getty Images)Bettina jetted off to North Dakota to attend her father-in-law’s speech, and again paired a tastefully chic dress (a tan tea-length design with spaghetti straps) with a slim black bow-tied belt. And yes, it does look strikingly like the same accessory she sported at Camp David.
Donald Trump’s Mt. Rushmore Speech Donald Trump Jr. with his wife Bettina Anderson. (Photo by Mandel NGAN / AFP via Getty Images)Trump (Bettina, that is) channeled a different Kennedy in her Mt. Rushmore event look. This time, the first daughter-in-law wore a red skirt suit reminiscent of Jackie O.
Donald Trump Jr. with his wife Bettina Anderson returning from Mt. Rushmore. (Photo by Mandel NGAN / AFP via Getty Images)While Bettina donned a leg-baring mini on the way to the event, she switched things up, pairing the red three-quarter-sleeve jacket with fun floral capris and flats on the way home.
The Great American State Fair WASHINGTON, DC - JULY 03: Donald Trump Jr. walks with his wife Bettina Trump as they visit the Great American State Fair on the National Mall. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)Mr. and Mrs. Trump Jr. walked the fairgrounds, both looking completely casual. Bettina wore a basic, fitted white tee and jeans, yet somehow didn’t blend in with the crowd.
Washington, D.C., July 4thWhat did Bettina wear to July 4th at the White House? Not a flashy flag-covered outfit. Instead, she chose an understated, summery, white strapless dress accented with a thin white-and-gold belt!
1975 Classic, Initially Rejected by Record Label, Became This Country Icon's First No. 1 Hit
One of the most iconic songs from Willie Nelson's discography almost didn't make it on to the album.
"Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain," one of the signature hits from Nelson's catalog, helped put him on the map and cement his breakthrough on the country music scene, even though his record label initially had reservations about his version of the song.
According to Wide Open Country, Columbia Records was skeptical of Nelson's stripped-down rendition of the song, which still ended up making it onto his concept album Red Headed Stranger in May 1975. By July of that year, the label ultimately agreed to release the song as a single — a decision that would unexpectedly launch Nelson into mainstream success.
The song soared to the top of Billboard's Hot Country Songs chart, becoming the first No. 1 hit of Nelson's career. It also peaked at #21 on the Billboard Hot 100, and later secured Nelson his first Grammy win for Best Country Vocal Performance in 1976.
To this day, with more than 20 No. 1 country songs under Nelson's belt, "Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain" is still regarded as one of the defining songs of his career. Rolling Stone named it as the No. 1 Best Willie Nelson Song and ranked it #27 on the list of the 200 Greatest Country Songs of All Time.
Even though the timeless track is frequently associated with Nelson, he actually wasn't the original singer or songwriter behind it.
Originally written by Fred Rose in 1945, "Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain" was first sung by Roy Acuff in 1947, and it had already been covered by several other stars, including Conway Twitty (1970) and Elvis Presley (1976), before Nelson put his spin on it.
Related: Powerful Country Song, Inspired by an American Tragedy, Became a 5-Week No. 1 Hit
Disney Just Announced a Major Throwback Event for '80s and '90s Kids
If you're a child of the ’80s or ’90s who remembers the distinct click of a plastic VHS tape sliding into the VCR, you might want to start looking at flights to Southern California immediately.
D23: The Official Disney Fan Club has just revealed a spectacular lineup of afternoon programming for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, happening in Anaheim from August 14 through 16, 2026. And to say that the schedule leans heavily into heart-warming, pure childhood nostalgia is an understatement.
The absolute crown jewel of the newly announced slate is the Disney Rewind Concert, which is being billed as the ultimate throwback musical event. Designed to completely relive the magic of "VHS vibes," this live mixtape concert will feature the very best Disney hits of the 1980s and 1990s.
Related: Disney Just Announced a Massive, Retro-Chic Revamp of a Beloved Classic Attraction
View this post on InstagramThe setlist will span everything from the pop-star energy of Powerline (hello, A Goofy Movie fans!) to the classic Saturday morning tunes of the Disney Afternoon block and the gospel-infused harmonies of the Muses fromHercules.
To bring these nostalgic anthems to life, Disney is assembling an elite cast of Broadway and animation royalty backed by full rock-concert lighting and massive, larger-than-life visuals.
The lineup includes Jared Dixon, Alyssa Fox, Arielle Jacobs, Josh Strickland, and Raena White, alongside highly anticipated special appearances by Disney Legends Bill Farmer, Jodi Benson, and 2026 Legend recipient Susan Egan. The concert officially premieres at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, August 14, with a second encore performance scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, August 15.
Related: Disney's New Class of Legends is a Total Love Letter to Our Favorite Childhood Memories
If that wasn't enough to make you emotional, the weekend concludes on Sunday, August 16, at 6:00 p.m. with A Whole New World of Alan Menken. This rare, one-man concert event features the eight-time Academy Award-winning Disney Legend sharing the iconic songs—and the intimate personal stories behind them—that shaped generations of music lovers.
Menken will perform his legendary work from historic animated features like The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Pocahontas and Hercules, alongside his celebrated stage and screen musicals.
Beyond the headlining musical events, the convention center show floor and panels will be packed with historical retrospectives tailored for lifelong fans. On Friday, guests can attend Walt Disney: 125 Years of Inspiration to salute Walt Disney's 125th birthday milestone with performances and stories from those who knew him, or check out 20 Years of Enchanted: A Love Letter to Disney hosted by director Kevin Lima and Nina West, which features an Easter egg-filled tribute using rare items straight from the Walt Disney Archives.
On Saturday, Worlds of Tinker Bell: Never Land to Pixie Hollow will explore the magical evolution of everyone's favorite fairy since 1953, and Sunday brings Searching for the Swiss Family Robinson Tree House, where artist Kevin Kidney shares rare details from his real-world journey to the original 1960 island filming locations.
Related: My Dad Hadn't Been to Disney World Since the '80s—So We Planned an '80s-Style Nostalgic Trip Back
The best news for fans who haven't locked down full weekend plans yet is that Disney has made experiencing these afternoon events surprisingly accessible. Afternoon-Only Fan Passes for Friday, Saturday and Sunday are still available for just $49, alongside full-day Sunday Fan Passes for $99. These passes grant access to the main stages as well as the massive, interactive show floor activations, including the immersive Disney+ Hulu Experience and sneak previews of upcoming features like Frozen 3 from Walt Disney Animation Studios.
Whether you want to belt out the lyrics to your favorite childhood cartoon theme songs alongside Broadway stars or listen to Alan Menken play the first chords of "Beauty and the Beast" live on a piano, your August travel calendar just got a lot more magical. Tickets can be secured right now by visiting the official event portal at D23.com.
Related: How to Score Disney D23 ‘Fan Superbowl’ Tickets Today Before a Total Sell-Out
9 Books Releasing This Week That Will Disrupt Your Sleep Schedule — And One Is a Long-Awaited Sequel!
Another week is here! Can you believe it? We’re now into the dog days of summer, with the heat intensifying. All you want to do is sit back and relax, and the books releasing on July 7 make that easy!
There is something for everyone, with thrillers for a Summerween vibe and romance for those must-have beach reads. There’s even a highly anticipated sequel to one of the best romantasies of the decade, so you can guarantee that your sleep schedule will be well and truly disrupted.
Courtesy of HarperCollins ‘The Brides’ by Charlotte CrossBefore Dracula, there were the Brides. And there were meant to be four of them, not the three that we know from the stories. The Brides by Charlotte Cross takes us into the dark tale, starting off in 1884 with Mafalda Lowell as he travels to Budapest to help her recently widowed aunt.
When she writes to her secret lover, Lucy North, about the chilling truth about her uncle’s death, Lucy decides to travel to Budapest with her former school friend Eliza and lady’s maid Alice. That’s when things take a turn, as Alice is beset by nightmares, and there’s a black-clad man following them. The story is also told through physician reports in 1903, as Sir John Seward relives being one of Count Dracula’s survivors.
Courtesy of HarperCollins ‘Hide & Seek’ by Søren SveistrupYou’ll know Søren Sveistrup for his television series The Killing. Now it’s time for his psychological thrillerHide & Seek, which is going to have you second-guessing that innocent children’s game!
When a woman starts to get messages repeating the childhood rhyme “Count to one, count to two…” she questions who could send them. Then she disappears! Now Detectives Naia Thulin and Mark Hess need to get to the bottom of the disappearance, which brings a terrifying turn that is linked to a decades-old cold case. Can they stop this violent killer before he strikes again?
Courtesy of Putnam ‘We Will See You Bleed’ by Ron Currie Jr.Need another perfect read for Summerween? We Will See You Bleed by Ron Currie Jr. is the next on the list, set in the summer of 1984 in Waterville, Maine. The town is on the verge of collapse, and with everyone broke and exhausted, it’s neighbor against neighbor.
Babs has been through this before, and she took a dark turn to survive then. She refuses to become that woman again, but she may just need to. The women of the town need her to be the merciless creature that came out of the woods drenched in blood 15 years earlier. It is worth reading The Savage, Nobel Death of Babs Dionne first, but that’s not necessary to enjoy the crime thriller.
Courtesy of Penguin Random House ‘Star-Crossed Summer’ by Devon DanielsWith summer love and a second-chance romance, Star-Crossed Summer by Devon Daniels is the perfect beach read. It follows a Hollywood starlet reunited with the co-star who broke her heart, and, of course, their chemistry is off the charts. Just how much of it is real?
Scarlett Everhart fell hard for Ryder Perry when they filmed The Lost Letter 10 years earlier. While they enjoyed an off-screen romance, it ended with shattered hearts. Well, Scarlett’s shattered heart, and she is determined to never think of that time again. Only when Ryder is thrust back into her life do things take a turn, but is this the right time for a second chance at love?
Courtesy of MacMillan Publishers ‘Pretty Dead Things’ by Kelsey CoxWhen it comes to thrillers, Kelsey Cox excelled with Party of Liars. Now she’s back with her second novel, Pretty Dead Things, and it’s perfect for those who love stories from multiple POVs, pageants, and unreliable narrators. It does take some time to get into at first, but once you’re into the mystery, you’ll be hooked.
Set in 2025, a small town is getting ready for the Lone Star Princess Pageant. Everyone is excited, but they also can’t help but think about the events from 25 years ago. The night of the same pageant, Isabelle Whitmore went missing, and then her sister just left town. Now, Ingrid is back, and it looks like secrets are about to be revealed. Will Ingrid get answers about what happened to her twin sister all those years ago?
Courtesy of Penguin Random House ‘Our Wicked Gifts’ by Kathryn FoxfieldThe cover for Our Wicked Gifts by Kathryn Foxfield immediately gives me Clue vibes, and it’s just a hint of the style of book you’ll get to read. However, there’s also a mixture of House of Hollow and Succession thrown in, as the daughter of a sinister magical family needs to stop the man who is killing them off.
Cicely was always the black sheep of the family, and Soren was the boy her family banished ot the underworld when making a deal with the devil. When Cicely’s Uncle Dorian turns up murdered, Cicely knows that she has to try everything possible to save them. However, is family worth it? What happens as she gets to know more about Soren?
Courtesy of Simon & Schuster ‘Helpless’ by Jessica KnollIf you’re in the mood for something similar to Misery by Stephen King, then Helpless by Jessica Knoll is the book for you. This story takes place 12 years after Faye left her college boyfriend behind. Now she’s back, and while she knows she hurt Henry, she didn’t think he would ever drug and kidnap her.
Now, Faye finds herself in a remote mountain cabin. Henry is out to punish her for her actions years earlier, especially for writing an episode of TV based on their breakup. Just how reliable is Faye as a narrator, though? Did she embellish the truth, or is Henry a danger to her and others?
Courtesy of Ace, a Penguin Random House imprint ‘The Exquisite Torment of Loving Your Enemy’ by Brigitte KnightleyIf you loved The Irresistible Urge to Fall for Your Enemy, then you’ll be more than ready for the sequel. The Exquisite Torment of Loving Your Enemy by Brigitte Knightly picks up right where the first book left us. Osric is struggling with his feelings for Aurienne, as they both continue to find a cure for his seith rot.
However, there are many more issues. After all, Osric killed to protect Aurienne, and people are looking out for his victim. If his secrets come out, it could mean the end of everything for him, including his life. At the same time, it could cause problems for Aurienne, as she tries to get to the bottom of the deadly pox deliberately unleashed.
Courtesy of Penguin Random House ‘An Infinite Love Story’ by Chanel CleetonSometimes, you just need a tale of love and loss, and that’s something The Infinite Love Story by Chanel Cleeton offers. It’s a story told in the past, with the backdrop of the Space Race. It’s 1968, and Joe Mitchell has launched into space. His wife, Vivian, is home with everyone else, watching and waiting for his return.
However, when there’s a knock at the door, Vivian gets the news no astronaut wife wants to get. Her husband’s spacecraft lost contact, and everyone onboard is feared to be dead. As Vivian looks back at her memories with her husband, she finds herself unable to accept the truth. Something has happened, and her husband needs her help; now she needs to get to the bottom of it, especially when she starts to get strange messages that only Joe could send.
