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1978 Classic Film With Major No. 1 Hit Song Ranked Among ‘Greatest Rock and Roll Movies’ of All Time
Biopics have been a staple in Hollywood since the dawn of cinema, and as the genre becomes increasingly saturated, the classics remain even more impressive.
In 2019, Consequence ranked the 50 best rock and roll films, curating a list of the greatest movies that incorporate the genre through both soundtrack and plot. Ranked among classics such as Robert Zemeckis' 1994 film Forrest Gump at No. 44 and Ken Russell's 1975 film Tommy at No. 41, Steve Rash secured the No. 43 spot with his biopic The Buddy Holly Story.
Released in the U.S. on May 18, 1978, The Buddy Holly Story was an immediate success. Praised by both critics and fans alike, the film flourished at the box office, grossing over $14.3 million against a budget of approximately $1.2–$2 million. The movie featured several up-and-coming talents, including Gary Busey, Don Stroud and Charles Martin Smith—performances that helped further establish their respective careers.
Gary Busey, Leon Russell and Jeff Bridges attend a screening of 'The Buddy Holly Story' in Los Angeles, California, on June 15, 1978.Alan Berliner/WWD/Penske Media via Getty Images
Due to its undeniable critical recognition, The Buddy Holly Story was lauded during the 1979 and 1980 awards seasons. The film earned three Academy Award nominations, winning for Best Adaptation Score, as well as Golden Globe and BAFTA nominations. Busey, who starred as Buddy Holly, was especially praised for his riveting portrayal of the '50s rock and roll star, with many of the film's accolades stemming from his acting prowess.
The film's plot follows a similar formula to most traditional biographical pictures. The Buddy Holly Story acted as a chronological retelling of his rise to fame, his career peak and his untimely death. Overlaid on the film is a stunning soundtrack that features Holly's most beloved hits, including "Peggy Sue," "Oh Boy!," "Everyday" and "Rave On."
Most notably, the film utilized Holly's 1957 No. 1 hit, "That'll Be the Day," which topped both the Billboard Hot 100 and the U.K. Singles Chart. The song ultimately became the standout track of the film, refocusing attention on the '50s star and reviving Holly's preeminent hits for a newer generation.
Today, The Buddy Holly Story is still recognized in cinema as an enduring work in the biopic genre. Its ability to bridge the gap between generations through heartfelt performances and a timeless soundtrack has solidified its legacy as a definitive musical biography.
You Might Not Be Getting Your May Social Security Check Today
Retirees who rely on Social Security payments usually eagerly await their monthly payments. And while there's a certain rhythm to when the Social Security Administration (SSA) sends benefit payments, the schedule doesn't always look the same from month to month.
That means many folks won't be getting their Social Security deposits today. Were you already aware that your money wouldn't be deposited into your bank account today? If not, keep reading to learn more about why you're not getting your Social Security payment today, and when you can expect to see it instead.
Your Social Security Check May Not Arrive TodayOnly those with birthdays between the 1st and 10th of the month can expect to receive their payment today. That's because the SSA has staggered its payment rollouts over several weeks of the month, with payments being sent out each Wednesday for the latter part of the month.
However, some Social Security recipients may have already received their payments prior to today. That's true of anyone receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) as a standalone payment, those receiving both SSI and Social Security, and those who began collecting benefits prior to May 1997.
Related: The Secret To Boosting Your Social Security Check by 30 Percent
When Will Your Social Security Payment ArriveIf your birthday falls between the 1st and 10th of the month, you may still be waiting for your payments. According to the Schedule of Social Security Benefit Payments for 2026, payments will be sent out according to the following order:
- Those born between the 11th and 20th will receive payments on May 20
- Those born between the 21st and 31st will receive their payments on May 27
Related: Why Your Social Security Benefits Might Be Taxed for the First Time Ever
What If My Social Security Payment Is Late?Of course, there's always a chance that your Social Security payment doesn't arrive on those days, even if it's supposed to. According to the SSA, if your payment due date has passed and you have not received your payment, contact your bank or financial institution before contacting the SSA.
That's because sometimes wire transfers can get held up by your bank, and it will be up to the financial institution to disburse those funds to your account. Of course, if your bank is unable to help you or says it never received the money, you can always reach out to the SSA for assistance. Just beware that you may experience delays, especially around payment dates, as the SSA lost thousands of employees in 2025 and is operating at reduced capacity as it attempts to address staffing issues.
Additionally, some SSA offices are closed for in-person visits right now, and are only taking meetings virtually. You can find out which offices are closed and which are open by visiting the SSA's Office Closings and Emergencies page, which provides state-by-state information on office availability, showing which locations are open for business as usual and which are experiencing delays or closures.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
Joey Fatone and Lance Bass Just Reunited on Broadway—and Fans Are Losing It Over Their ‘It’s Gonna Be Me’ Singalong
It's gonna be May! An impromptu concert on Broadway featured none other than NSYNC's Joey Fatone and Lance Bass.
As reported byPEOPLE, the boy band icons reunited onstage during an &Juliet post-show sing-along to perform the group's hit track, "It's Gonna Be Me." The surprise reunion was even more special because Bass, who had been attending Broadway'sTitanique, managed to arrive just in time. He admitted, "I almost got hit by six taxicabs, but I made it by the last note!"
Joey and Lance's performance playfully referenced the "It's Gonna Be May" meme, which trends on social media every year on May 1st. The meme originated from the way Justin Timberlake pronounces the word "me" in the song. Both have an established Broadway presence: Fatone made his debut in Rent, starred in Little Shop of Horrors, and briefly played Lance DuBois in &Juliet in 2025. Bass debuted as Corny Collins in Hairspray in 2007 and is currently co-producing Titanique with fellow NSYNC member JC Chasez.
Recently, NSYNC fans have enjoyed an abundance of on- and off-screen appearances from the beloved group members. Fatone's docuseries, Boy Band Confidential, which debuted this April on the Investigation Discovery channel, offers an exclusive look at the pitfalls of boy band fame through interviews with Fatone, Bass, and members of other iconic groups from the 1990s and 2000s. Fatone also performed at this year's NBA All-Star Weekend in February.
(L-R) Joey Fatone, Lance Bass, Justin Timberlake, JC Chasez, and Chris Kirkpatrick of NSYNC; Photo by Theo Wargo/Getty Images for MTVAdditionally, Chasez appeared at Rewind Washington in March, marking his first-ever convention appearance. Chris Kirkpatrick is currently performing alongside O-Town, BBMAK, LFO, and Ryan Cabrera on the Pop 2000 Tour. Meanwhile, Timberlake has made headlines recently following his 2024 DWI arrest and rumored marital issues with his wife, Jessica Biel.
NSYNC fans can look forward to seeing more of Joey Fatone and Lance Bass as co-hosts of their upcoming mixology competition series,Cocktail Wars, airing on E! this summer.
A 'Fourth Wing' Amazon Series Is Coming—Here's What We Know So Far
Romantasy fans, rejoice! Fourth Wing is coming to TV.
The hit book series by Rebecca Yarros has officially been greenlit for Amazon Prime Video, and we have Oscar winner Michael B. Jordan as one of the people to thank for that, as he's signed on to be one of the executive producers of the project.
The TV show first went into development in October 2023, but didn't get an official greenlight until May 2026 after switching showrunners (more on that in a minute).
The series follows Violet Sorrengail, who thought she'd live a quiet life as a scribe until her mother, a general, enrolled her in Basgiath War College, where Violet has to learn to ride dragons in order to survive. (We don't want to say much more for fear of spoiling anything for you!)
Yarros told Variety that the series will likely be loyal to the source material, though she's still writing more installments of the books.
"All I can say is that when I met with them in L.A., they did ask if I wanted to come sit in the writers room, and I would never get in somebody’s way," she said. "But I just want to be like, 'Hey, that plot point might mess with a point in Book Four, just a heads-up, just in case you want to do that!'"
Yarros' Empyrean book series began with Fourth Wing in May 2023. Iron Flame debuted in November 2023, followed by Onyx Storm in January 2025. A fourth and fifth book are in the works, and she promises that the Amazon adaptation won't run into the timeline issues that Game of Thrones did with George R.R. Martin's book series, which still isn't done.
" I can promise, unless something happens to me, we’re not going to have that situation. We do have a publication schedule, it is just not public yet," Yarros assured Variety. "I’ve already said publicly that I’m slowing down slightly, enough that I can put out books and still be healthy. I think I wrote like 851,000 words in 15 to 18 months—I was just wiped out. I want to be able to deliver the best books possible, so I need to sleep a little. I’ll be writing, I just need to write and sleep, not just write. We’re slowing down a tiny bit, not every six months."
Here's what we know so far about the Fourth Wing TV show—be sure to check back for updates!
"Fourth Wing," "Iron Flame" and "Onyx Storm" books by Rebecca YarrosEntangled Publishing
Is Amazon making Fourth Wing into a show?Indeed!
The details are scant so far, but here's what we do know: Meredith Averill, producer of Netflix hit series The Haunting of Hill House and Locke & Key) will serve as the Fourth Wing showrunner and executive producer, and she'll have some serious talent helping her along the way.
Fallout executive producer Lisa Joy is slated to direct the Fourth Wing pilot, as well as to serve as an executive producer alongside Jonathan Nolan, Athena Wickham, Michael B. Jordan, Elizabeth Raposo, Liz Pelletier and Sherryl Clark.
Related: Fourth Wing Author Rebecca Yarros Shares Update Fans Have Been Waiting For
When is the Fourth Wing TV show release date?No release date has been announced just yet for the Fourth Wing TV series, but watch this space for updates!
"Fourth Wing" books by Rebecca YarrosPhoto by Geography Photos on Getty Images
Who is in the Fourth Wing TV show cast?No casting announcements have been made just yet for the Fourth Wing TV show. Yarros told Variety of casting for the show, "I honestly don’t have an opinion on it. I’ve never done this before, so I don’t have an opinion on if they should be established or if they shouldn’t, or what attention that brings, because I’m out of my depth of knowledge here. I’m going to trust that they bring in the right people when they start casting. And then I’m gonna hope that they fit who’s described in the book, and I think we’ll know when we know. But I honestly don’t have a preference, just whoever can fit the character."
Related: Fans of Fourth Wing Are Already Buzzing About Rebecca Yarros’ New Romance Peculiar Stars
Who is going to play Violet Sorrengail?No casting announcements have been made regarding the series, nor for Violet Sorrengail specifically. That said, some fan fantasy casting is already underway.
Dove Cameron Dove CameronPhoto by JC Olivera on Getty Images
While some fans clamor for Dove Cameron (best known for Schmigadoon!, Descendants, Shameless and Liv & Maddie) for the lead role.
Related: Disney Drops First Look at Descendants: Wicked Wonderland — See the Teaser and Full Cast
Mackenzie Foy Mackenzie FoyPhoto by Steve Granitz on Getty Images
Others have speculated that Mackenzie Foy, best known for her work in The Nutcracker and the Four Realms, The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 2 and Interstellar, among others, may be in the running for the starring role of Violet.
Australian unknown Callie Brutnell was also speculated to possibly be in the running, but that was based solely on her partner sharing an Instagram photo of her in costume as Violet.
Related: Ryan Gosling’s Latest Film Compared to Massive Hit Ranked Among ‘Best Movies of All Time’
Who is rumored to play Xade Riorson?No casting news has been announced yet for Xade Riorson, the tall, dark and handsome Duke of Tyrrendor and Violet Sorrengail's love interest in the books, but Yarros did say she has sway with his casting and that it would be loyal to the source material.
"We’re just going to say he's POC; we’re just going to leave it at that," she told Variety, adding, "I didn’t rise to the bait of a lot of those [fan casting] posts, which I think probably got me some flack, but I knew we were already in development for TV, and I want to make sure that role is open to as much diversity as possible. So I was never going to give the readers my vision because I know that once you give the readers your vision, that’s what they’re gonna stick to. And I wanted to make sure we left it open to as much diversity as possible."
That said, once again, some stars are really putting themselves out there to get attention and consideration for the role.
Josh Heuston Josh HeustonPhoto by Theo Wargo on Getty Images
Aussie actor Josh Heuston, who appeared in Thor: Love and Thunder and stars as Dusty Reid in Netflix's Heartbreak High and as Constantine Corrino in Dune: Prophecy, has made it clear he's into the series. Heuston frequently engages in social media discourse about the Fourth Wing book series, telling CinemaBlend that he's seen the #BookTok casting ideas pointing towards him for the male lead.
"I'm on social media, so I've seen some stuff," he said. "But yeah, I think if the story's there and I resonate with it, then I'm open to doing things in general."
He echoed the sentiments in an interview with PEOPLE, and considering it was at an Amazon Upfronts event, that may bode well for him.
"I've definitely seen some things. These books are amazing, and I love fantasy and everything involved in that genre," he said. "So who knows?"
When asked directly if he'd be down for a role in the show, he replied slyly, "We'll see what happens ... I don't know what you want from me here! Well, I do know what you want."
Related: That Complicated Dune: Prophecy Premiere, Explained in Simple Terms
Emilio Sakraya Emilio SakrayaPhoto by Michael Loccisano on Getty Images
Warrior Nun star Emilio Sakraya has been hinting that he either is or wants to be involved in the Fourth Wing series, and fans have him as one of their picks for Xade Riorson. That said, most of his hints have been quite subtle, if that's even what they were, ranging from social media likes to simply using a dragonemoji with a selfie from a workout.
Is the Fourth Wing TV series confirmed?It sure is! Amazon officially announced that the series was greenlit on May 11, 2026.
Is Fourth Wing a series on Amazon?It will be! The streaming giant announced on May 11, 2026 that the book series would be a series on Prime Video.
Related: Amazon Announces Romance TV Series Based on Hit Books
Who would star in a Fourth Wing series?No official casting announcements have been made for Fourth Wing, but watch this space! That said, there have been some fan castings for other characters besides Violet and Xade.
Nepo baby Hero Fiennes-Tiffin, Hunger Games and Five Nights at Freddy's star Josh Hutcherson, Stranger Things alum Dacre Montgomery, Charlie Rowe, Freddie Thorp and Brenton Thwaites have all appeared in fantasy castings for Dain, Violet's childhood platonic best friend. Charlie's Angels star Ella Balinska, You and Mortal Kombat 2 star Tati Gabrielle and Hunger Games and Star Wars: The Acolyte star Amandla Stenberg have all been floated as potential stars for Rhiannon, Violet's BFF at Basgiath War College.
Related: 21 Books Like 'Fourth Wing,' According to Librarians
Jon Voight, 87, Hits the Red Carpet Amid Rumors He Wants Peace With Angelina Before She Leaves the US
Legendary actor Jon Voight stepped out amid rumors that he's hoping to make peace with his daughter, fellow Oscar winner Angelina Jolie.
The Oscar-winning actor, 87, known for memorable roles in films including Coming Home, Midnight Cowboy, and Deliverance, hit the red carpet to attend the 2026 Los Angeles Jewish Film Festival's Opening Night Gala at Saban Theatre on Sunday in Beverly Hills, California. Looking dapper in a gray sport coat and pants, the screen titan worked the red carpet like he's done it a million times below. (And he probably has!)
Photo by Paul Archuleta on Getty Images
Angelina Jolie is Planning on Leaving the United StatesWhile times have been tough over the years between Voight and his daughter, word on the street is that the actor is hoping to make peace with her before she leaves the United States for good.
Back in 2024, Jolie shared with The Hollywood Reporter that when her kids are of age, she intends to high-tail it out of the United States and start a new life abroad. Her twins with her ex Brad Pitt, Knox and Vivienne, will turn 18 in July 2026, which will allow her to spread her wings wherever she chooses.
"I am here because I have to be here from a divorce, but as soon as they’re 18, I’ll be able to leave. When you have a big family, you want them to have privacy, peace, safety. I have a house now to raise my children, but sometimes this place can be … that humanity that I found across the world is not what I grew up with here. [After Los Angeles,] I’ll spend a lot of time in Cambodia. I’ll spend time visiting my family members wherever they may be in the world," Jolie shared.
Her home is already on the market for just under $30 million.
Voight's Granddaughter, Zahara, Raved About Her MomZahara took the stage at a mother-daughter brunch for the Pearls of Purpose Foundation on Sunday, April 26, in Atlanta, where she was featured as the special guest. In her speech, the college student opened up about her relationship with her mother, as Jolie stood beside her.
“When asked to speak with you all today on the value of mother-daughter relationships, it felt challenging to find the words,” Zahara began, according to a video on Instagram. “Not challenging because I don’t value it, but because my mom and I have a unique, almost kindred, relationship that can be hard to put into words.”
View this post on InstagramWalmart’s 'Cute' and 'Comfortable' $22 Waffle Knit Lounge Set Is the Ultimate Spring Find
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As warmer weather starts to roll in, a comfortable lounge set can easily become one of the most reached-for pieces in your wardrobe. These coordinated outfits are easy to slip on and create an instant outfit without much effort. Whether you’re relaxing at home, logging on for a work-from-home day, or stepping out for a quick coffee run, a matching set helps you look intentional while still feeling comfortable.
While some lounge sets can easily cost over $100, there are still budget-friendly options that look just as stylish. One standout deal right now is the Sunbs Two-Piece Waffle Knit Lounge Set. It’s currently on sale for at Walmart, bringing the price down from $50 to as low as $22. Prices vary slightly by color, but most are under $30, so there are plenty of opportunities to save big on this popular lounging duo.
Sunbs Two-Piece Waffle Knit Lounge Set, From $22 (was $50) at Walmart Shop at WalmartThe set is available in sizes small through 2XL and is made from a breathable blend of 96% polyester and 4% spandex. The fabric is designed to feel lightweight and skin-friendly, which makes it comfortable for long days at home or casual outings. It’s also machine-washable, so you won’t have to worry about complicated care instructions. You can choose from four easy-to-style colors: black, brown, khaki, and navy blue.
Design-wise, the waffle-knit texture adds a relaxed but elevated feel. The top features a slightly oversized, boxy silhouette with capped sleeves and extended shoulders, creating a flattering structure without feeling restrictive. The bottoms are high-waisted shorts with an elastic waistband and an adjustable drawstring, so you can customize the fit while staying comfortable.
Related: Walmart’s 'Dainty' $28 Initial Ring Is a Personalized Gift for Graduation and Beyond
The versatility of this set makes it a practical choice for everyday life. It’s comfortable enough for chores, relaxing at home, or working remotely, yet stylish enough for quick errands or a casual lunch with friends. Many people also choose sets like this for travel days because they’re soft and flexible while still looking polished at the airport. Another benefit is how easy it is to style — you can wear the pieces together for a coordinated look or mix them with other items in your wardrobe to create different outfits.
Shoppers seem to love it as well. One reviewer described the matching set as “light and comfortable,” noting that it’s “great for summer.” Another shared that it’s “cute enough for brunch and sturdy enough for hiking,” highlighting its “strong material and functional pockets.”
Shop More Deals- Mintreus Short-Sleeve Lounge Set, From $18 (was $31) at Walmart
- Fantaslook 2-Piece Lounge Set, From $19 (was $35) at Walmart
- Dokotoo Short-Sleeve Lounge Set, $27 at Walmart
If you want to get your warm-weather wardrobe ready early, the Sunbs Two-Piece Waffle Knit Lounge Set is an easy pick. It’s comfortable, versatile, and stylish enough to wear well beyond the couch. With Walmart’s current discount, you can snag it for as low as $22 and save $28 on a set you’ll likely reach for all season long.
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.
The Children’s Book Banned in 1986 Because of One Scene
There are often some absurd reasons for books to be banned and challenged. While the themes of the overall book come up with the likes of The Handmaid’s Tale and Nineteen Eighty-Four, there are some books banned purely because of one scene.
In the case of this 1986 ban, it was a scene that was completely misinterpreted. It brings up the question of whether books should be banned or not.
‘James and the Giant Peach’ Was Banned in 1986Roald Dahl fans are no stranger to finding out that his novels were banned from time to time. When it comes to absurd reasons, James and the Giant Peach takes the cake! A Wisconsin town decided to ban the book in 1986, and it was because of a scene that wasn’t even physically possible.
Religious groups in this town decided that a spider licking her lips could be taken in a sexual nature. It didn’t matter that spiders don’t even have tongues, so it couldn’t even be done! It led to a ban.
It wasn’t the only ban to happen that year — just the most absurd — with another ban happening in Tennessee. This ws due to families objecting that the children’s book be included in classrooms, as it wasn’t considered suitable reading material. It had nothing to do with the spider, but everything to do with the rebellion against parents.
‘James and the Giant Peach’ Was Rewritten in 2023It wasn’t just a decades-old ban that put James and the Giant Peach on the map. In 2023, Puffin Books, a division of Penguin Random House, chose to rewrite some of Dahl’s books. This was done posthumously, and it was against everything that he stood for while he was alive.
The writing was to “make the novels accessible” to everyone, removing certain language. It came with criticism from many, including Queen Camilla, Salman Rushdie, and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Even PEN America was completely against the decision.
Phrases like “his face white with horror” and “lovely pink skin” were changed to remove the use of color. The Sponge was no longer referred to as fat, and “Cloud-Men” was changed to “Cloud-People.” Due to the backlash, the original version of Dahl’s works was also rereleased, although the revised versions have not been retracted.
Sharon Stone Suffers Devastating Loss as Fans Shower Her With Prayers
Sharon Stone just suffered a devastating loss—the death of her brother, Michael Stone—and fans showered her with prayers.
On Wednesday, May 13, the Basic Instinct and Casino actress, 68, took to Instagram to announce the sad news.
"Mike Stone, my oldest brother, has passed away following an extended illness," Stone revealed. "We wish him peace." The actress concluded the death announcement by signing her name, along with her three sons, Roan, Laird, and Quinn."
Stone's younger brother, Patrick, died at 57 in 2023. She also has a sister, Kelly.
View this post on InstagramRelated: Couple Featured in Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives Found Dead in Tragic Incident
Stone's fans showered her with condolences and prayers in the comments of her post, which featured a photo of Michael. Will & Grace star Debra Messing wrote, "So so sorry S💔."
Another Instagram user shared, "Sharon, I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Your family is in my prayers ❤️."
Someone else echoed, "So sorry for your loss. Sending love and prayers to you and your family 🙏❤️."
A different follower commented, "I’m so sorry Sharon. ❤️I hope you’re surrounded by love, support and as much peace as possible during this hard transition. ❤️."
Meanwhile, yet another fan wrote, "Sending you love. My deepest condolences to your family."
In 1995, Michael appeared in Stone's film The Quick and the Dead as a counselor. He also appeared in the '90s moviesEraser and Malevolence. Additionally, Michael starred in three episodes of The Bold and the Beautiful in 2000, and more recently had an acting credit in the 2021 short film Renaissance Man.
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Costco Is Selling a 'Stunning' Acacia Butcher Block Countertop at a Price That Can't Be Beat
The beautiful thing about Costco is you never know what you're going to find. From grocery staples and cleaning supplies to electronics, home decor, outdoor essentials, apparel and more, you'd be hard-pressed not to leave without finding something useful after any visit.
With spring officially here and a seasonal refresh on everybody's mind, Costco is delivering a home and kitchen upgrade that shoppers are already racing to grab. Retailing for just $129.99, the Vision Home Acacia Wood Butcher Block Countertop brings a warm, rustic vibe to any room, perfect for replacing an old and outdated kitchen counter or repurposing as a stunning home office desk. Available only in stores, it's easy to see why this must-have upgrade is already such a hit.
Vision Home Acacia Wood Butcher Block Countertop, $129.99 at Costco View this post on Instagram"POV: your Pinterest dream home just got easier," @costcochika captioned their post. "These gorgeous unfinished acacia butcher table tops are now at Costco and they're perfect for kitchen islands, custom desks, laundry rooms, coffee bars and so much more. The smooth wood finish is STUNNING."
Ready to make a difference in your home, the Vision Home Acacia Solid Wood Butcher Block Countertop brings natural beauty and unrivaled durability to any room. Measuring 74 inches long, 25 inches wide and 1.5 inches thick, this acacia hardwood surface features a finger-jointed construction for added strength and stability, with rich brown undertones, soft blonde hues and a unique grain pattern. It also weighs roughly 65 pounds, giving it a hefty construction that can last a lifetime.
With each grain pattern slightly different from the rest, you get the pleasure of taking home a butcher block that feels unique in its own right. Even better, this piece is sold unfinished, so you can customize it to look exactly how you want. It can be stained, oiled or sealed to match your personal style, making it blend seamlessly in kitchens, laundry rooms, home offices, creative workspaces and beyond.
Related: Costco Just Dropped the Final Boss of Ninja Products: 'This Masterpiece Does Everything'
Benefits of a Butcher Block CountertopButcher blocks are more than just a pretty wooden work surface. They're durable, versatile and extremely easy to work with. Along with adding a rustic touch to your home, butcher block countertops come with a long list of benefits:
- Warm, natural look that adds character to any room
- Durable solid wood surface that holds up to daily use
- Can be sanded and refinished over time to remove scratches and wear
- Naturally repairable and easy to maintain with regular mineral oil treatment
- Ages incredibly well and only looks better with time
- Easy to cut and customize to fit unique spaces or layouts
- More affordable than stone, marble and granite
- Adds a rustic, high-end aesthetic without being overly formal
"Wow that is so cool," one fan responded to @costcochika's post. "Perfect for a desk," another added.
"What a cool find," a third fan chimed in, adding, "The wood is so pretty!"
"I would love these," another fan said. "I'm already thinking where I could use this, maybe my laundry room?"
FSC-certified, moisture-resistant and available with a straight-edge design that provides a clean, modern profile for a refined, contemporary look, this must-have Costco butcher block countertop is a solid home investment. If you happen to snag one for yourself, make sure to apply your preferred finish before use. From there, you can clean it with mild soap and water as needed, but you'll also want to refinish it periodically for lasting protection.
And if you really like what you see, don't miss out on Costco's adorable avocado lounge chair and ultra-cozy summer-ready pool float.
Related: Aldi's Popular $15 Kitchen Essential Is Made for Summer Cookouts
2011 Horror Film, Written in Three Days, Beloved By Fans as 'Underrated Gem'
Horror movies tend to have their character archetypes: the jock, the stoner, the bookworm, etc.
A pair filmmakers once took these conventions and flipped the whole notion on its head. What if these clichéd personas are needed to quite literally save the world from destruction? If you've seen the movie, you're aware of the miraculous and often underrated end result that's nearing 15 years since its premiere.
Simply titled The Cabin in the Woods, the genre-blending hit features big names such as Sigourney Weaver and has an impressive 92% average critics' rating on Rotten Tomatoes, based on nearly 300 reviews. Here's the official synopsis offered:
"When five college friends (Kristen Connolly, Chris Hemsworth, Anna Hutchison, Fran Kranz, Jesse Williams) arrive at a remote forest cabin for a little vacation, little do they expect the horrors that await them. One by one, the youths fall victim to backwoods zombies, but there is another factor at play. Two scientists (Richard Jenkins, Bradley Whitford) are manipulating the ghoulish goings-on, but even as the body count rises, there is yet more at work than meets the eye."
And if you've ever been impressed by how quickly you finished writing a lengthy assignment, essay, article etc., think about completing a feature-length screenplay in just three days. Joss Whedon once opened up about his memorable Cabin in the Woods writing process with co-scribe and director Drew Goddard.
"Drew and I got a bungalow in a hotel in Santa Monica. He had the upstairs, I had the downstairs," Whedon, 61, told Den of Geek in 2012. "We already had ten pages and our outline, and we'd already broken it into three acts. Then we'd wake up in the morning, we'd take an act, go through it very specifically, divvy it up, and we both had to do a minimum of 15 pages a day in order to create a screenplay. And we did not talk about anything else."
1933 Hit Film Classic Ranked No. 1 Above All Remakes—And There Were a Lot of Them
The original King Kong has been ranked the greatest film from the monster movie franchise, 93 years after it was released.
In a list of 10 King Kong movies compiled by Rotten Tomatoes, the 1933 original ranked above nine other remakes and sequels, including King Kong Escapes (1968), King Kong Lives (1986), King Kong Skull Island (2017), and Godzilla vs. Kong (2107), as well as Dino De Laurentiis’ star-studded 1976 remake of the classic monster film and more.
Rotten Tomatoes' critics consensus noted, “King Kong explores the soul of a monster -- making audiences scream and cry throughout the film -- in large part due to Kong's breakthrough special effects.”
Collider posted a similar list that also ranked the 1933 film as the best of the bunch. “You can't beat the original King Kong,” the outlet noted, adding that it was “one of the most technically groundbreaking films of its era.”
“It's mind-blowing what the filmmakers were able to accomplish here, in 1933, and watching the film makes it easy to understand why the title character's now legendary,” the Collider review added. “1933's King Kong is one of the best movies of the 1930s, and remains the best of its series.”
An unexpected leading manThe original King Kong starred Fay Wray, Robert Armstrong, and Bruce Cabot as it told the story of an enormous ape who fell in love with a beautiful young actress (Wray) who was offered to him as a sacrifice. The film was a massive hit and reportedly saved RKO Radio Pictures from bankruptcy, per NPR.
In a 1969 interview with The New York Times, Wray recalled that producer Merian C. Cooper jokingly promised her, “You will have the tallest, darkest leading man in Hollywood.”
When she first saw sketches of the monstrous lead, the actress admitted her heart sank. “This absolutely enormous gorilla was staring at me. ‘We’re going to make him look about 50 feet high. All in animation,’” she was told.
Wray said she was initially reluctant to make the horror film. “Cooper’s having called the Kong story a kind of Beauty and the Beast concept in no way made the thought of the ape more appealing!” she shared. “Although the entire country was in an economic depression and I was eager to make a movie, I wondered how I could bring myself to face such an animal. Gradually, my enthusiasm for the strangely wonderful humor, imagination, and talent of the Cooper-Schoedsack team overcame the original shock."
The actress expressed gratitude for being part of “one of the great successes of motion pictures.”
RELATED: 1970 Hit Film, Nominated for Rare Academy Award, Ranked Among Best Movies of All Time
Critics questioned the 1976 ‘King Kong’ remakeFifty years ago, one of the biggest King Kong remakes came courtesy of Italian film producer Dino De Laurentiis.
The 1976 $25-million remake starred Jeff Bridges, Charles Grodin, and Jessica Lange. It was described by The New York Times as “a dazzling display” of special effects, but it was noted, “The nicest thing about the 1933 King Kong, made by Merian C. Cooper and Ernest B. Schoedsack, was that it was no big deal. One could marvel at the wizardly special effects created by Willis O'Brien and not be overwhelmed by an awareness of the terrific time and expense that went into them. Its heart was genuinely light. Not this time. Why, I think we have a right to ask, would anyone want to remake it?”
Not only did De Laurentis remake the film with a modern-day twist, but he also hoped to outdo the previous summer’s blockbuster, Jaws.
“No one cry when Jaws die," De Laurentiis reportedly said. "But when the monkey die, people gonna cry. Intellectuals gonna love Kong. Even film buffs who love the first Kong gonna love ours.”
'90s Movie Star Celebrates Birthday by Restaging Childhood Birthday Party
Actress Ashley Judd celebrated her 58th birthday in an unusual and nostalgic way. The Double Jeopardy star shared on social media that she was trying to recreate her 12th birthday party, posting images of herself smiling beside a brown-and-yellow iced cake.
“My inner 12-year-old was ready to receive love, care, attunement, delight, protection, and provision,” the actress said in the caption of her Instagram carousel.
“Have you ever considered, from your adult perspective, restaging for your sweet inner child an experience she either never had at all?” she added. “Or an experience that did not unfold with the safety and attention it should have?”
It has become something of a tradition for the star, who is the daughter of Naomi Judd and Michael Cininella. The year prior, on her 58th birthday, she celebrated with a party for her nine-year-old self.
“Many of us grew up with unmet needs,” she wrote. “Today, as adults, we can listen carefully to those missings, identify what happened that should not have happened — and, crucially, what did not happen that should have happened — supplying that, now, with love and humor to ourselves.”
“We backfilled what was always missing and no longer is, thanks to vulnerable imagination,” Ashley wrote. “We laughed, frolicked, square danced, took a Scopes Monkey Trial True or False quiz (including quite a bit Mrs. Minor did not cover in 1979), and ate a dream cake any 12-year-old would adore.”
Ashley also created a jar where party goers could anonymously confess their sixth-grade embarrassments. “Shame reduction! Who knew others were also awkward and scared at times.”
Naomi, Ashley and Wynonna Judd attend the ACM Awards, Los Angeles, Circa 1990s. (Photo by Ron Wolfson/Getty Images)Last year, Ashley opened up about using these parties to please her inner child, describing her difficult youth on social media. "As a teen (& even 9 year old) I was left alone for months (& lived alone in 10th and 11th grades) with no adults or caregiver in my homes. My teen endured so many grave boundary violations."
She described these celebrations as a way to be there for her "inner teen as she heals," and to "deparentify" her younger self of all "those responsibilities that never should have been hers as an adolescent."
Ashley has been open up about her traumatic childhood, which included, according to ABC News, attending 13 schools before she was 18. She struggled with depression as a young woman and has written about being abused by numerous men, including an unnamed family member.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, help is available 24 hours a day through RAINN's National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673.
These 4 Birth Dates Have a Way With Words
Whether through writing, conversation, or presentation, some people have a way with words. Their diplomatic tone carries tact. With personable persuasiveness, they captivate others with detailed stories. While they win people over with ease, it doesn't often come from a place of manipulation. Rather, they simply have a vision that pierces through the mundane, revealing intriguing facets of life left unturned by the unexamining mind.
According to numerologists and astrologers, four birth dates are most likely to have a way with words. Call it what you will: a skill, a gift, or a developed trait. At the end of the day, their language undeniably creates a beautiful picture that others cannot help but admire with poetic longing, pulling at their heartstrings.
Which Birth Dates Have a Way With Words?Check for your birth date. Disregard birth months.
Born on the 14th — The Quick-Witted CommunicatorPeople born on the 14th of any month are full of intellectual wisdom. Ruled by Mercury, the planet of communication itself, how could they not? These individuals are students of life. They never graduate from their curiousity, always eagerly grasping for what will expand their minds and life experience. This youthful aspiration to evolve captures others. Embracing dynamic perspectives and living in between nuances, they bring contrasting perspectives into unity. Intriguing to many, these people make you consider what opportunities lie beyond your limited beliefs, all through charming chat and the gift of gab.
NEXT: These 4 Birth Dates Never Crack Under Pressure
Born on the 15th — The Charming WordsmithVenus, the planet of charming love, rules this birth date. As natural caretakers, they effortlessly tune into the emotions of others. People easily connect with their words; it's not only what they say but also how they convey their messages. Being adaptable and socially aware, they tailor their communication to the listener's level, ensuring their words are eagerly received and leaving others feeling understood and validated. With a heart full of love, they have much to give. Their rose-colored lens shines through their choice of words, helping to bridge gaps and foster harmony.
RELATE?: Which Wildflower Matches You, Based on Your Birth Month
Born on the 21st — The Natural StorytellerPeople often lean in closer to hear the stories from someone born on the 21st. Their enthusiastic voice draws you in, and the rollercoaster highs and lows of their accounts hook your attention. As leaders, these individuals understand the power of a captivating narrative. Ruled by the lucky planet Jupiter, known for philosophical expansion, they seek to explore uncharted territory daily. With their wealth of firsthand accounts, they expose others to fresh perspectives, emerging trends, and even the latest gossip. Their playful personality and self-assuredness make them engaging conversationalists, often transforming the mundane into art through their exaggerated, theatrical storytelling.
Born on the 25th — The Poetic SoulNeptune, the planet of spiritual awakening, governs those born on the 25th. As a result, individuals with this birth date often possess a heightened perspective. They have a rare blend of intellect and intuition, which grants them exceptional observational skills, pattern recognition, and poetic insight. Their words have the power to draw others away from logical analysis and into a deeper, soulful part of their being. An air of mystery surrounds them, making others feel compelled to draw closer. Even when their words are infrequent, people are eager to listen to the interesting and emotive truths they share.
UP NEXT:
Watch as Sigourney Weaver Does a Perfect 'Star Wars' Impression — and Says She Should Do it on Film
Sigourney Weaver has been in Ghostbusters, Avatar, and Aliens, a franchise celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. Now she can add Star Wars to the list, and she showed up to The Tonight Show on Tuesday with a pitch for Star Wars runner Jon Favreau.
Weaver sat down withJimmy Fallon to promote Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu, which opens in theaters and IMAX on May 22, and the conversation quickly moved on the film's other undeniable star. When Fallon asked whether Grogu is as cute in person as he looks on screen, Weaver didn't hesitate.
'I have sat next to Grogu now a number of times,' she said. 'And he is so real. And he is irresistible, honestly, I have to say.'
And after enough time studying the character up close, Weaver told him, she had already pitched Favreau on a new role for herself. 'I have already offered to Jon that I can do the soundtrack for him,' she said, 'because I can do...' and then produced a note-perfect Grogu impression, complete with the character's signature wide-eyed sounds and expressions.
Fallon's reaction: 'You could be the voice of Grogu!'
Weaver said that five puppeteers operate Grogu on set, and that the character never really switches off. During her first scene with Pedro Pascal's Mando and Grogu, she said the crew kept him running between takes without telling her. 'I didn't realize, but they were under the table keeping him going,' she said. 'He is alive in your head. He's real.'
Her praise for Pascal was equally warm. 'He is divine,' Weaver said. 'I think he's such a wonderful actor, performer, dancer. I don't know if he sings. He probably does.'
Weaver plays Colonel Ward, a veteran of the Rebellion who came up alongside Princess Leia's generation and now commands a remote base in the Outer Rim. Her mission is to root out lingering Imperial warlords before they destabilize the fledgling New Republic. Her solution, reluctantly, is the man in the Mandalorian armor and his small green companion. 'Without looking in this man's eyes, I have to look at these two and go, 'Yes. I trust you. You are the best chance we got,' she told Fallon.
Weaver also revisited Aliens at length, marking the film's 40th anniversary. She addressed the story behind the most famous line in the franchise, 'Get away from her, you b*tch', revealing that her first take went up in pitch at the end, which she immediately second-guessed. 'The acting student said to myself, 'That's the wrong way. It should go down,' she recalled. Director James Cameron disagreed and kept the take. It became one of the most quoted lines in science fiction history.
Fallon closed the interview by announcing that everyone in the studio audience was going home with IMAX tickets to the film.
Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu opens in theaters and IMAX May 22.
Aldi's Pretty New Cordless Table Lamps Add a Pop of Dopamine Decor to Your Space
Dopamine decor is all about making your space joyful and completely your own. In other words, if something brings you joy, it belongs in your space. Dopamine decor is often bright and cheery, focusing on creating feelings of well-being and happiness. Think bright colors, fun shapes and items that are specifically meaningful to you. Of course, having good lighting is a must in any happy home, and these cutesy new cordless table lamps at Aldi just scream dopamine decor. Even better, each one retails for just $12.99.
Aldi's private-label brand Casalux is now offering a Cordless Table Lamp in three chic shades, including powder blue, egret (off-white) or light gray, giving you a few options to choose from for your space. Each cordless lamp features a charming dome-shaped shade and a bubbled base, together creating a unique and quirky silhouette that's pure dopamine.
Casalux Cordless Table Lamp, Blue, $12.99 at AldiAldi
Because these lamps are cordless, you can place them wherever you please, from your kitchen table to your nightstand to your desk. You can even move them around your home for a quick design switch-up. It's totally up to you. We think these lamps would work great as reading lights, and they would also be beautiful to use as ambient lighting to create a relaxing mood.
Related: Shoppers Are Upgrading Weekend Plans With Aldi's $15 Lounging Essential
These lamps are battery-operated via USB-C charging, only adding to its convenience and ease of use. Once fully charged, simply hit the on button on the base of the lamp whenever you need some extra light.
These cordless table lamps are available now as part of Aldi's current rotation of Aldi Finds, which are the weekly product specials that change in and out every single Wednesday. Aldi Finds can be shopped in Aldi stores' center aisles. Remember, Aldi Finds are limited-edition and are only available while supplies last, so if you see an Aldi Find you love like these lamps, make sure to grab it while you can! Aldi Finds never stick around for a terribly long time.
If you are interested in other Aldi Finds, be sure to check out these 100 percent cotton 2-piece kitchen towel sets that add a vibrant pop of color to your kitchen, this sleek two-burner griddle that's a game changer for summer cookouts or this pretty washable patio rug that brings a ton of boho charm to any outdoor space.
Related: Aldi's Whimsical Solar Light Looks Like a Piece of Art
‘X-Files’ Legend Gillian Anderson, 57, Transformed Into a Curly Blonde Goddess on the Red Carpet
Gillian Anderson pulled off an amazing red carpet transformation in Cannes.
The beloved actress, 57, who rose to stardom in the role of Dana Scully on The X-Files, is having quite a renaissance. She made waves in recent years for roles in shows like Sex Education, in which she plays a sex therapist. Last year, she released a book, Want, an anonymous collection of sex fantasies, which she edited. The anthology was so successful that Anderson recently announced a follow-up. Now, she's hitting the red carpet at the 79th annual Cannes Film Festival at the Palais des Festivals, during a photocall for Teenage Sex And Death At Camp Miasma. The beauty was absolutely stunning with long, curly blonde hair, which is quite the contrast from her days as Dana Scully. However, she worked those curls with pride.
Photo by Amy Sussman on Getty Images
Photo by Aurore Marechal on Getty Images
Finding Her Worth As She AgesBack in March, Anderson participated in L'Oréal's Lessons of Worth campaign, which pushes back against the idea that women become invisible with age.
When you're young, “you’re noticed, you’re needed, you’re whistled at, you’re even hit on. And then a few years later, poof, you don’t exist. You’re in the way," Anderson shared in her campaign video. "I don't believe that we will ever be able to change the minds of men in terms of how they perceive women and aging," Anderson told InStyle. However, she said age has only improved her experience of herself. “I’ve never felt more alive, in my skin, clear-headed, purposeful, free of self-judgment."
When it comes to what advice she'd give herself in her twenties and thirties, Anderson spoke candidly.
"To care less about what other people think and do more for other people," she shared.
Check out Anderson's campaign video below:
Related: ‘X-Files’ Icon Gillian Anderson, 57, Is Ageless in Leather Dress
Lori Loughlin Makes Sweet Appearance In Daughter Olivia Jade's Makeup Video: 'So Proud Of You'
Lori Loughlin is a proud mom.
Following the launch of her daughter Olivia Jade Giannulli's makeup line, Loughlin joined in a fun video where the two were showing off a specific product in the beauty range, named o.piccola.
"Okay my mom just came in and asked me to put some Bronze & Glow Balm on her and of course I'm making her film it," Giannulli said, who mentioned "Aunt Becs" in the video's caption, referencing her mom's iconic Full House character, Rebecca Donaldson-Katsopolis.
View this post on InstagramIn the clip, Olivia, 26, helped apply the product, which received a rave review from her mom.
"That looks pretty, it's giving cheek bone, who knew?" she said.
"I love that," she said, as her daughter continued to apply the product. "Just a little color and a little glow, that's beautiful."
However, the two had a funny moment when her daughter mentioned that followers were wondering if the product worked on "old skin."
"Not that you have old skin," Giannulli said.
To which Loughlin, 61, replied: "I have old skin, let's call a spade a spade."
But the mom-and-daugher duo put any snark aside to conclude the clip.
"I'm so proud of you," Loughlin said. "I know how hard you worked on this. It really, really is gorgeous."
Related: 'Full House' Actress, 61, Looks Nearly Unrecognizable as She Debuts Brand-New Look
Fans in the post's comments were also loving the pair together.
"Good lord she's gorgeous as always!!" one commenter said. "Can't wait to try these!!!!"
"Can’t believe how much you and your sister look so much like your beautiful mama." added another, mentioning her older sister Bella Giannulli.
"Her mom is such an underrated actress," added a third. "And woah she looks amazing aging backwards.
Kelly Rizzo, widow to Loughlin's late co-star, Bob Saget, also chimed in the comments.
"Love you guys...also can't wait to try!" she said.
Olivia Jade Giannulli and Lori LoughlinPhoto by Michael Buckner on Getty Images
The video comes as Loughlin recently debuted a new hairstyle that made her almost unrecognizable during a red carpet appearance in Los Angeles.
The Full House star shares Olivia and Bella with estranged husband Mossimo Giannulli. The two separated last year in the aftermath of their participation in the college admissions scandal which led to Loughlin going to jail for two months in 2020.
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Wayfair’s 'Beautiful' Farmhouse Console Table Is Now $80, and It's 'Perfect for Small Spaces'
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If you need something to fill an entryway, hallway, or open wall space, the Longshore Tides Mahler 42-Inch Console Table is a super practical addition to any home. Right now, Wayfair has it on sale for as low as $80 for the white option, down from $147. The black option is $95 (originally $160), espresso is $88 (originally $152), and gray is $87 (originally $152).
The table measures 31.5 inches high, 42 inches wide, and 14 inches deep, making it narrow and ideal for smaller spaces. It’s made with manufactured wood and a solid wood base, and it has three tiers total with two open shelves underneath. The X-brace supports help increase stability, and the table has a 176-pound weight capacity. It also features a scratch-resistant and stain-resistant surface, plus a finished back.
Longshore Tides Mahler 42-Inch Console Table, From $80 (was $147) at Wayfair Shop at WayfairYou can use it near the front door for keys, bags, or mail, but it also works well behind a sofa, under a window, or along a hallway wall. The shelves provide extra storage, and the top surface is spacious enough for decor, framed photos, or a lamp.
One shopper called the table "beautiful," while another said it’s “sturdy and super easy to put together!" Other reviewers said it offers "plenty of space" and is "perfect for small spaces.” Some people said they used it in an entryway for diaper bags and book bags, while others used it in a guest bedroom, office, TV room, or hallway for family pictures and decor.
You can keep it simple with a mirror and a tray in an entryway, or use baskets on the lower shelves for more hidden storage. It also works nicely in a living room or office, with books, candles, photo frames, or even board games if that’s what you need the space for.
Shop More Deals- Sand & Stable Laguna Solid Wood Coffee Table, $187 (was $200) at Wayfair
- Union Rustic Larenda Entryway Table, $163 (was $415) at Wayfair
- Three Posts Lorraine TV Stand, $200 (was $390) at Wayfair
The Longshore Tides Mahler 42-Inch Console Table offers extra storage, surface space, and a more finished look than many other console table styles. Now under $100, it’s a great price for a piece that can work in so many different spots around the house. Be sure to snag yours while it’s still marked down this low at Wayfair.
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'MasterChef's Tiffany Derry Reveals the Biggest Mistake Contestants Keep Making (Exclusive)
This season, MasterChef has taken on the theme of Global Gauntlet, and it has divided the world into four areas: Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Americas. After four weeks of auditions, white aprons have been awarded to five of the best home cooks in each of the regions, who are based in the United States but cooking to reflect their heritage.
So, the season is focusing on the contributions that immigrants have made to the food culture in the United States.
“What makes the food and the culinary scene that we have in the US amazing is that it truly is a melting pot of cultures from all over the world,” judge Tiffany Derry tells Parade in this exclusive interview. “One of the things that we’re doing is highlighting and celebrating the four regions, but even within every region, there’s so much, right? When you think of Africa, the continent of Africa is incredible with cuisine and so different – the spices, the flavors. You’re dealing with Egyptians, Moroccans, South Africans, all of that is just completely different.”
As the show highlights the breadth and width of the food scene and the diversity of the people who create the food, it does somewhat change up the challenges from previous seasons, but not completely.
“It changes it a little bit because you’re a team, but you’re not really. In the beginning, you’re cheering for the group. You want Team Asia Pacific, or you want Team Europe to win because when a team wins, you feel safe as well. If you didn’t have maybe the best dish, then perhaps if your team can win, then all of a sudden you’re safe. So, you’re going for your team, [as] you do in any team sport. But at the end of the day, it’s only one person that’s winning. So, you’re also calculating and figuring out, ‘Okay, I got to watch such and such over there, and I got to be careful with this person,’ right?"
Every season the judges say that the home cooks get better, which is hard to imagine after 16 seasons. But this season, what makes it different is that in celebrating food from all over the world, dishes that may be familiar are done a different way.
“You have people cooking foods from where they’re from, where their family heritage is from, which is very different sometimes than how you would cook if you’re just cooking your everyday. You might want to experiment with cuisines and different flavors. But here they’re highlighting their family heritage,” Derry says. “And so yes, they’ll change it up to whatever that challenge is, but there’s always still that North star of what exactly makes this dish fit within, whether it’s Africa, whether it’s Asia-Pacific, wherever you are, there’s still that thread that is still consistent.”
Parade also spoke to Derry about her days as a contestant in cooking competitions, what we might not know about Gordon Ramsay or Joe Bastianich, and her surprising favorite food.
Related: ‘Chopped Castaways’ Season 1 Cast Includes ‘Top Chef,’ ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ Stars
One thing that you bring to this that, that Gordon and Joe don’t have is you actually competed in a competition on Top Chef.
Many actually! Many competitions.
Does that make you different somehow as a judge? Do you look for different things? Are you more empathetic?
I think it does make it a little different. Both Joe and Gordon have done this for so long [that] there’s just not much that can ever pass them. And I mean, I’ve competed for a really long time; I think I’ve heard it all. I have been happy, been sad, cried, overjoyed, like every emotion that you can get from competition. And I remember thinking that the day that I am on the other side of this, I am going to always tell them something that makes them better. I am going to be honest with them in hopes that they’ll make it to the next round and be able to use what we’re talking about.
And so, whether I seem like I am being straightforward – I prefer the word straightforward – if I’m being straightforward or not, it’s all with the idea of, I hope that they learn from this and grow. So yes, sometimes I feel like I am in a really good position, considering that I’ve been on both sides for a long time now.
What’s it like during the actual competition when the three of you are in the back room, and you have to pick the best dish and the worst dish because somebody wins and somebody goes home? Is there consensus on that? Do you disagree a lot? What happens when you disagree?
I don’t really hide much. I don’t really care to. I just feel like I’m at a point where if I disagree, I just say I disagree. My mom used to say, “Fix your face.” And so, my face is exactly how I feel usually. You’ll see that.
But what we do well is, at the end of the day, each of us, whoever we’re fighting for, I’ll say, we have a good case that we’re making. We all don’t always agree, but there are always points that we do agree on. When we start really getting into the season, it can get tense. And it’s gotten to a point where it’s tense, even after we finish. And I’m like, “I don’t agree, but okay.” Or they get that way as well. And then sometimes we’re like, “Yeah, I agree.”
But most of the time, we’ve made the right decision, and you’ll see a few episodes later, you’re like, “Okay, this person was perfectly right for this one”. So, there’s just different ways to go about it. There are always feelings involved in it as well.
Photo credit: FOX
You’ve completed two seasons now, even though we are just starting to see the second one. Talk about what surprised you about working with Gordon or Joe, or something that we as fans would love to know about them.
I don’t think people see the side of Joe that I see every day. Gordon, you see who he is. He’s exactly who you think he is. Whether he is critiquing a dish and trying to make you better, or whether he’s joking and laughing and having a conversation with you.
I feel like most people don’t see the side of Joe that is funny and a little silly. There are moments where he cooks and does things and he sings. I just feel like there’s layers to it that. I feel like I get a little chance, little glimpse to see. So, the rapport between us three, I feel like being together that long and doing those two seasons… it definitely was different than even last year, which was fabulous.
What do you think is the thing that contestants mostly do wrong? What do you think is the biggest mistake that we’re going to see this season?
There’s always technical difficulties. But sometimes you can get over a technical difficulty of whether it means that they didn’t sauté something perfectly. They didn’t braise something long enough. They didn’t season something with enough salt or acid or spice. For me, it’s always, what was the challenge? This was a challenge we gave you, and you disregarded the challenge and decided to just do whatever you wanted to do. And that is something that I see where it’s like, “I’m maybe not comfortable cooking or doing something, and I don’t want to take that gamble, so I play it a little safe.” And it’s not what you want to do on MasterChef. You do not want to play it safe. You want to make sure that every dish you put out is a representation of you, and you have truly gone for it.
Related: Gordon Ramsay’s Net Worth in 2026 Makes Him a Truly ‘Next Level Chef’
Do you have a favorite region of the world where you love the cuisine?
It’s such a hard question. It’s like picking your favorite child. I am often prone to go into Asia, like more Southeast Asian food. I cook a lot of it. I eat a lot of it, more than most people realize. And it’s even funny because during the show, both Gordon and Joe are now realizing how much of that I eat and what I know about it.
They’re like, ‘wait a minute,’ and so they’ll look at me and go, “What do you think?” And I’m like, “Well, you know, this and that.” So, it’s really nice to see. It’s cool.
Is there a food that you won’t eat?
I haven’t found it yet. I’ve eaten some crazy stuff. And because I do travel a heck of a lot, I’m always looking for something. I don’t know anything that I wouldn’t eat right now. I mean, I’ve had some crazy stuff.
Like bugs and stuff like that?
Oh yeah. Those little crunchies, you know?
And what about a guilty pleasure? What would you consider your guilty pleasure? I talked to Gordon years ago and he said he liked In-N-Out burgers.
Actually, I like them, too, but you know what? I am a shaved ice fanatic. I would have it over any dessert. I will have it over any chocolate in the world. I love the texture of perfectly shaved, fluffy ice. I love a sweet and sour syrup. So, any kind of citrusy fruit with a bit of acid, too. Ooohhh and then top it off with the cream. That is my jam. In fact, I wish I had one right now.
I actually have a machine that does shave ice. But because I grew up in East LA, I grew up knowing raspados, which are snow cones.
Yes, absolutely. In Mexico, yeah.
But then lately we have Hawaiian shaved ice trucks. So, it’s more universal than you would think.
Oh, it’s very universal. In fact, I’m actually getting ready to open a shaved ice shop next month. It’s really such a global thing like in Korea, they do one called Bingsu, to obviously the shaved ice, Kakigori, from the Japanese and to Louisiana as well. It’s sooooooo much that people are like, it’s a universal love. Honestly, it is.
Where’s your store going to be?
It’s going to be in Grand Prairie, which is like the suburbs of DFW. It’s called Surf and Snow.
MasterChef airs Wednesday nights at 8 p.m. ET/PT on FOX. Streams next day on Hulu.
Related: 'MasterChef' Returns With an International Theme for Season 16 in 2026 — What to Know
Sydney Sweeney Shares Rare & Intimate Glimpse Into Romantic Australian Getaway With Major Music Mogul
Sydney Sweeney may be in Australia to work, but the Euphoria star is making sure there's time in her schedule to play, as well. On May 13, she posted a heartwarming, romantic montage of her side excursions with her new love, Scooter Braun, to her Instagram stories.
The video begins with Sweeney and her beau standing on a beach as Layup and Katelyn Tarver's song "Who You Share It With" plays. As she attempts to take a video selfie, Braun kisses her all over her face. In the next scene, the two are dancing playfully before it cuts to them holding hands on a helicopter, flying over the Great Barrier Reef.
After landing on a reef pontoon, they take more sweet and goofy video selfies before changing into dive skins and plunging into the water. After swimming and snorkeling, they're at a wildlife park, petting a koala and snuggling with a dingo. The medley ends with the loved-up couple in a house, dancing together. Braun also shared the Instagram story, which marks a turning point for the couple.
While rumors swirled that the couple began dating after meeting in Sept. 2025 at Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez's wedding in Venice, they both stayed mum. Then, on April 15, he shared a photo of himself and Sweeney on his Instagram stories. Two weeks later, Sweeney and Braun hard-launched their relationship, posting very coupley photos of their time at the Stagecoach Music Festival.
View this post on InstagramSweeney was previously linked to businessman Jonathan Davino. The former couple began dating in 2018 and got engaged in 2022. In March, she confirmed that they had split up, and she was single.
"I’m learning a lot about myself, spending more time with my friends," she told The Times. "And I’m loving it."
Netflixconfirmed in April that filming for the live-action Gundam had begun in Queensland, Australia. Based on the Japanese anime franchise, Gundam is a sci-fi adventure film centered around giant robots (mechs). "With awe-inspiring battles, intimate human emotion, and an epic cinematic scale, this is Gundam like it’s been seen before," the synopsis reads.
Sweeney is starring in the film alongside Noah Centineo (Street Fighter), Jackson White (Tell Me Lies), and Jason Isaacs (The White Lotus).