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OK bestie. It’s time to take a break from your daily doomscroll and give yourself a moment to think about something other than what seems like the hundredth food recall in the past month. We promise there’ll be plenty of time to spiral later, but for now, consider this your opportunity to pause and indulge in some much-needed ’90s nostalgia. And what specific brand of sentimentality are we talking about today, you ask? Cereal box toys. 

You know the ones you used to dig around for at the bottom of the box, hoping you got exactly the one you wanted? Well, it appears that those hunks of plastic modeled after our favorite cartoon characters might actually be worth some serious cash today. We’re talking in the neighborhood of up to $60 per toy in some cases. How’s that for a distraction?

Whether you’ve got a pristine collection out on display or you’ve stuffed your once-prized possessions into a cardboard box that’s now turned into a ’90s time capsule, you could be secretly sitting on a gold mine.

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And luckily for you, we’ve done a little digging for you to find out just how much moolah you could potentially net from your vintage ’90s cereal box toys. So, kick back, put on your favorite episode of The Wild Thornberrys and read on to find out which are the most valuable ’90s cereal box toys today. 

Why ’90s Cereal Box Prizes Are Highly Collectible Today

Before we get into all the deets, though, let’s talk about why ’90s cereal box toys are so sought after today. Although you’d be hard-pressed to find toys in cereal boxes today, during the pre-Y2K era of the ’90s, cereal toys were arguably at their heyday. Kids (yours truly included) went feral for these elusive collector’s items, and no matter how quickly the appeal wore off, they were our entire world back then. 

Today, nostalgia-starved millennials have helped spark renewed interest in these long-forgotten relics of the ’90s, and the buzz is driving prices for toys in mint condition to tick steadily upward. The good news is, you can cash in if you’ve got some of the more valuable prizes lying around somewhere.

Related: 6 Store-Bought Ice Cream Treats That Will Transport You Back to the ’90s

The Most Valuable ’90s Cereal Box Toys, Ranked

Mom won’t mind if we raid the attic next weekend, right? Here are the most valuable ’90s cereal box toys today. See if any of the below are in your stash for serious cash. 

1. Kellogg’s Aladdin Magic Color-Changing Spoons

There’s no denying that Aladdin is one of the most magical Disney movies of all time, and if given the chance, we’d love to take our own magic carpet ride. Unfortunately, magic carpets aren’t exactly cereal box-sized. Thankfully, Kellogg’s had a better idea: Magic Color-Changing Spoons. These figural plastic spoons used the magic of thermochromic pigment to change color when they came into contact with cold milk. It was a stroke of marketing genius, and today you can find individual spoons on eBay for upward of $20. By that math, the entire set of four could potentially net you $80. 

2. Kellogg’s Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace Mini Busts

The original 1977 Star Wars movie predates some of us millennials by a few years, but most of us remember 1999’s Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace. If not for the iconic three-way lightsaber fight scene better known as the “Duel of the Fates” or the introduction of Darth Maul and his epic dual-sided lightsaber, then definitely for the marketing campaign that included Kellogg’s putting mini character busts into boxes of cereal. The collection featured a whopping 10 characters, each turned into a bite-sized statue with facts about it scrawled on a scroll hidden inside. Today, you can find individual characters with the scrolls going for upward of $10, with more complete sets fetching $30 to $50, depending on their condition.

3. Kellogg’s Rice Krispies Wrist Watches View this post on Instagram

It’s a shame that kids these days will never know the joy of enjoying Rice Krispies Treats Cereal or the main character feeling of sporting a Rice Krispies Wrist Watch that you had to mail in your proof of purchase for to get (thanks Mom and Dad). These now highly sought-after timepieces were all the rage in the ’90s, with Kellogg’s stuffing some into specially marked boxes or allowing fans to acquire one by mail. The ones in the box were typically colorful, plastic character watches modeled after the eponymous Snap, Crackle and Pop characters, while the mail-in version was a bit more elevated-looking. Either way, these watches in pristine condition today can go for anywhere between $10 and $40, which is definitely a net positive.

4. Kellogg’s Breakfast Bunch Bean Bag Toys

Although nothing compares to dumping all the cereal out of a bag to find the toy hiding inside, there was something just as exhilarating about mailing off your proof of purchase and then frantically checking the mailbox every day to see if your prize had arrived. And back in the ’90s, these bean bag toys—better known as the Breakfast Bunch—were well worth the wait. Each one was modeled after an iconic Kellogg’s mascot like Tony the Tiger or Toucan Sam. Today, these adorable plushies resale for anywhere between $5 to $30, with more complete sets generating the most cash.

Related: 8 Kitchen Gadgets Every ’90s Mom Had on Her Counter (That Actually Worked Better)

Does Opening the Package Ruin the Toy’s Value?

JRomero04 / Shutterstock.com

Now that you know which toys are the most valuable ones in your collection, you’re probably wondering if they need to be in their original packaging or not to be worth anything. We get it, we weren’t exactly thinking about the resale value of our cereal box toys while we were scarfing down Froot Loops. The good news is that while unopened toys in their original packaging are typically worth more money, you can still sell opened toys for a relatively decent price. Sure, you’ll get a bit more for toys in mint condition, but as long as it’s not totally scuffed up or destroyed, you’ll still walk away with a little extra cash.

How to Appraise and Sell Your Vintage Cereal Toys

Photo by Erik LeFebvre on Unsplash

When it comes to selling your prized collection of cereal box toys, you’ll definitely want to assess their value before you do anything. Although they might hold outsized value to you, nostalgia doesn’t always translate to dollar signs. You can figure out what to price your collection at by finding comparable items in similar condition on eBay or Etsy, then landing on a number. 

You could also take your toys to a pawn shop, although you may not get a fair deal in terms of their actual value. Once you know how much they could potentially sell for, you’ll want to take high-quality photos and upload them to your resale site of choice. Make sure to note any marks or scuffs, as well as any notable features, such as the original packaging or limited-run status. From there, all you have to do is wait for the moolah to start rolling in. 

See, wasn’t that a much-needed and informative break in your day? Now you can doomscroll and make money at the same time! How’s that for multitasking?

Related: Check Your Cabinets: These ’90s Fast-Food Glasses Are Now Worth Hundreds

When Michael Jackson was working on Thriller, producer Quincy Jones wanted the album to have a harder-edged rock sound than Jackson’s previous albums. Jackson had written “Beat It” with a rock sound in mind. A true rock classic needs a standout guitar solo, and Jones knew just the axeman to call when it came time to record the infamous guitar solo in “Beat It.”

By the time Thriller was recorded, Quincy Jones was already a legend in his own time. Jones was one phone call away from the world’s most famous musicians. But when he picked up the phone to call Eddie Van Halen in hopes the guitar legend would help out with the guitar work on “Beat It,” Van Halen first thought the call was a joke. Once he realized he wasn’t on an episode of Candid Camera, Eddie Van Halen agreed to help Michael Jackson’s rock ’n’ roll dreams come true.

A notorious perfectionist on the guitar, Eddie Van Halen didn’t just show up to the studio, play the requested solo and leave. Van Halen reworked the section of “Beat It” where the solo would appear, helping to shape the arrangement before recording the infamous guitar solo.

What resulted was roughly 20 seconds of guitar that became one of the most recognizable instrumental moments in pop music. Giving “Beat It” a re-listen, the guitar solo is classic Eddie Van Halen. Remarkably, Van Halen did it as a favor to Jones. He wasn’t paid for the session and was initially uncredited on the recording at his own request.

Eddie Van Halen Gave “Beat It” Its Rock Edge

What was so remarkable about the collaboration was the contrast. Michael Jackson was one of the biggest pop stars in the world, his voice and style undeniable. Eddie Van Halen was one of the definitive guitar heroes of hard rock. Putting them together could have created a gimmick neither could live down, or an enduring rock anthem revisited for years to come.

The combination worked.

The Grammy Museum has described “Beat It” as Jackson’s trailblazing exploration into rock, with Van Halen’s solo becoming a defining part of the song’s legacy. This crossover wasn’t just an intriguing celebrity pairing. Van Halen’s guitar solo helped bring Jackson’s music to rock audiences while also putting Van Halen’s guitar work in front of an enormous pop audience.

“Beat It” would go on to become one of Michael Jackson’s signature recordings.

Related: 1977 Hit With an Uncredited Joe Walsh Guitar Solo Became an Andy Gibb No. 1 Hit

“Beat It” Became a Michael Jackson Classic

Released in 1983, “Beat It” became a No. 1 hit and won the 1984 Grammy for Record of the Year. Jackson also won Best Male Rock Vocal Performance for the song.

But the impact of “Beat It” transcends awards and accolades. “Beat It” became one of the defining songs of the Thriller era, demonstrating that the lines between pop, R&B and rock were far more malleable than they had once seemed.

In an era when music and musicians were often expected to fit into a specific genre, Michael Jackson’s collaboration with Eddie Van Halen showed that music didn’t have to fit into a strict boundary. Michael Jackson was the ultimate pop showman, but audiences quickly embraced his harder rock sound.

Eddie Van Halen Only Performed “Beat It” With Jackson Once

Eddie Van Halen only performed his “Beat It” solo live one time.

In 1984, Eddie Van Halen joined Jackson and his brothers onstage during the Victory Tour in Dallas, Texas. It’s one of the rare live performances where Jackson surrenders the spotlight to another music legend, his enthusiasm clear from the footage.

The moment is a fitting footnote to one of the most unexpected collaborations in music history. Van Halen had quietly contributed one of the most memorable pieces of the studio recording, but for one night, the two legends finally shared the stage.

Eddie Van Halen’s “Beat It” Solo Still Sounds Incredible

“Beat It,” from its infamous opening notes to its endlessly watchable video, was one of the defining songs of the Thriller era.

But more importantly, by recruiting a rock legend like Eddie Van Halen, Michael Jackson created the rare pop-rock crossover anthem that helped his music reach an entirely new audience.

Decades later, the collaboration still feels almost impossible to believe. Michael Jackson and Eddie Van Halen came from two very different musical worlds, yet together they created something that became bigger than either genre.

And that unforgettable guitar solo? It was Eddie Van Halen all along.

Related: The Killers’ 22-Year-Old Hit Spent 512 Weeks on the UK Chart and Still Gives Its Singer Chills

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From casual shopping days to dressy work events, Mary Janes are an easy shoe choice for nearly every season, but they have secured their spot as a reliable fall staple. Ready to handle fluctuating temperatures that come with the transitional season, they offer ample coverage while allowing your feet to breathe. They’re the definition of chic versatility, effortlessly elevating any outfit whether you wear them barefoot or with crew socks or tights for extra warmth. 

@yelle.g

it’s giving school girl?? 🧦

♬ original sound – Nikolcia_08

If you’re looking to add a pair to your fall shoe collection, be sure to snag one that strikes a balance between style and comfort, like these Dream Pairs Mary Jane Heels at Amazon, crafted with phenomenal arch support. Right now, you can score them on sale for a limited time. Normally retailing for $44, they’re now marked down to just $30 in four colors, including black, white, nude, and red. Sizes range from 6 to 11, and shoppers said they fit true to size. 

Dream Pairs Mary Jane Heels, $30 (were $44) at Amazon

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Designed with both comfort and style at the forefront, these Mary Janes add a polished touch to any ensemble and ensure that your feet remain pain-free. Boasting a 1.3-inch block heel, they offer a slight lift, giving you a little extra height while lengthening your legs. However, these shoes don’t sacrifice stability or comfort, so your feet should stay happy all day long. 

Made of thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), the outsoles are pebbled, offering a non-slip grip to keep you stable on all kinds of surfaces. The insoles and midsoles are made with three layers, featuring latex foam sandwiched between two layers of latex foam that absorb the impact of your steps to reduce the pressure on your feet and joints. The soles have ergonomic arch support, distributing the weight evenly throughout your feet. Additionally, the soles are flexible and bend along with your feet as you move around, preventing you from feeling fatigued or restricted. 

Dream Pairs Mary Jane Heels, $30 (were $44) at Amazon

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Giving them that classic Mary Jane look, these shoes have a strap that spans across the foot bridge, keeping your feet securely in place and doubling as a fun accent. One side of the strap has a button closure while the other is equipped with elastic, giving you the option to slip into these shoes without having to unbutton them. 

Crafted with faux patent leather, these Mary Janes have a glossy finish and a sleek appearance with almond toes and a streamlined silhouette. You can style them with nearly any outfit, ranging from elevated streetwear to elegant dresses. Their block heel dresses up all kinds of attire, giving you a refined and put-together look. 

“I’m a flight attendant, and I can wear these all day,” one reviewer said. “They’re so comfortable, super chic, and the perfect height.” A second shopper called them a “wardrobe staple” and described them as “cute and timeless.” They also mentioned that they didn’t cause any soreness or blisters from the first wear, meaning that they don’t require a break-in period! 

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• Dream Pairs Mary Jane Flats, From $29 (were $36) at Amazon
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Related: Adidas’ Nurse-Approved Sneakers Are ‘Light’ and ‘Comfortable’ for Long Days on Your Feet, Now 40% Off

Whether the forecast calls for clear, sunny skies or a breezy, overcast day, the Dream Pairs Mary Jane Heels are fit for any weather. If you want to be ready for whatever fall has in store, be sure to snag them at Amazon while they’re still on sale for just $30!

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A Coca-Cola commercial doesn’t sound like the obvious starting point for a pop song, but that’s exactly how “I’d Like to Teach the World to Sing (In Perfect Harmony)” began in 1971.

The jingle proved too catchy to stay an ad tune, eventually reaching the charts in versions by both The Hillside Singers and The New Seekers.

While delayed at an Irish airport, Coca-Cola advertising executive Bill Backer watched travelers gather over bottles of Coke, talking and laughing. He grabbed a napkin and jotted down a phrase, “I’d like to buy the world a Coke.”

The phrase became the basis for Coca-Cola’s now-famous “Buy the World a Coke” campaign. Songwriters Roger Cook, Roger Greenaway and Billy Davis worked with Backer to turn it into a song.

Greenaway later recalled that Backer had heard “True Love and Apple Pie,” a record he and Cook had previously written. “[Backer] heard ‘True Love’ and felt the lyric was not suitable for Coke,” Greenaway told Billboard. “He did like the melody” and shared the idea he had while waiting at Shannon Airport.

The song was first recorded as a commercial jingle by The New Seekers, but the group couldn’t appear in the television commercial because of its schedule. The Hillside Singers were brought in to perform the ad on camera instead.

The ad quickly became a sensation. Its image of people from different backgrounds gathering on a hillside to sing about sharing a Coke resonated with viewers, helping make the campaign one of the most recognizable advertisements of the era. 

The jingle’s popularity eventually led the writers to turn it into a full-length pop song. They removed the Coca-Cola references and rewrote it as “I’d Like to Teach the World to Sing (In Perfect Harmony).”

The Hillside Singers released their version first, and it reached No. 13 on the Billboard Hot 100. The New Seekers followed with their own recording, which climbed even higher to No. 7.

Decades later, the song found another audience when the original Coca-Cola campaign was featured in the 2015 series finale of Mad Men. The episode’s closing scene famously reimagined the creation of the “Hilltop” commercial, introducing the 1971 campaign to a new generation.

Related: 1964 Pop Song, First Recorded by Lulu, Launched a 15-Year-Old Singer’s Career

More than six decades after Peter Wolf began his music career, the former J. Geils Band frontman is getting ready for another run of shows.

Wolf has announced six new fall 2026 dates with his longtime backing band, the Midnight Travelers, beginning Nov. 5 in Derry, New Hampshire, and wrapping up with a hometown performance in Boston on Nov. 28. The concerts follow his return to the stage earlier this year after spending more than a year away from touring.

The new dates arrive during a particularly reflective chapter for Wolf.

In 2025, he released Waiting on the Moon: Artists, Poets, Drifters, Grifters, and Goddesses, an unconventional memoir filled with stories about the musicians, writers and other figures who shaped his life. Promoting the book kept him away from regular touring, but Wolf returned to performing in February 2026 and continued playing select dates through April.

His fascination with music stretches back to the early 1960s.

Wolf began his career in 1964, years before joining the J. Geils Band, and his formative experiences included seeing the burgeoning folk scene surrounding Bob Dylan in Greenwich Village.

“I was browsing through a record bin one afternoon when I heard a voice that caught my ear from behind the thin half-closed curtain separating the front of the store from the back,” Wolf wrote in his memoir. “I went back toward the curtain to listen more closely, attracted to the unusual style of this voice.”

The voice belonged to Dylan, whose arrival in New York and ascent through that community became an enduring point of reference for Wolf, who later found his own path through rock, blues and R&B.

“The work of all those people I’ve admired so much has defined a lot of my life,” Wolf The Guardian. “Because I was lucky enough to spend so many private moments with them, my mission was to be an observer and to share all that I got to see.”

By 1967, Wolf had joined the J. Geils Band, eventually becoming the charismatic voice behind songs including “Must of Got Lost,” “Love Stinks,” “Freeze-Frame” and the chart-topping “Centerfold.” After leaving the group in the 1983, he built a wide-ranging solo career while continuing to draw on the roots music that had captivated him as a young musician.

His latest shows will pull from both sides of that history.

At an April concert in Detroit, Wolf performed for nearly two and a half hours, mixing selections from his solo catalog with J. Geils Band favorites. The fall itinerary will take him through New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Connecticut before concluding at Boston’s Shubert Theatre.

Sixty-two years after beginning his career, Wolf is still returning to the music that first set him in motion. His latest tour adds another chapter to a journey that began amid the folk and rock revolution of the 1960s and continues onstage today.

Related: 1966 Folk Song, Covered by Rod Stewart, Is Still a Powerful Hit 60 Years Later

The Terminator franchise has created some iconic pairings. Arnold and Linda Hamilton. Claire Danes and Nick Stahl. Ed Furlong and Robert Patrick. Seeing two of those faces together again, decades after they chased each other across a screen, is the kind of moment that sends a whole generation straight back to the theater seats of their childhood.

Terminator 2: Judgment Day stars Robert Patrick and Edward Furlong reunited in London, 35 years after the film turned both into icons. Patrick, who played the relentless T-1000, and Furlong, who played a young John Connor, posed together for a photo that Patrick shared with a caption nodding to their onscreen war. “Found John Connor in London. Turns out the T-1000 just needed a plane ticket,” he wrote.

The two crossed paths at For the Love of Sci-Fi, a fan convention at London’s ExCeL, where both were appearing. John Connor was later played by other actors across the franchise, but Furlong’s version remains the one many people picture first.

Found John Connor in London. Turns out the T-1000 just needed a plane ticket 👍🏼@ftloscifi @EdFurlong pic.twitter.com/rEg84EsiYa

— Robert Patrick 🇺🇸 (@robertpatrickT2) August 21, 2026

Fans zeroed in on a detail in the photo almost immediately. Furlong wore a Guns N’ Roses t-shirt, read by many as a deliberate wink at the band’s “You Could Be Mine,” the track that blasted through T2 and became one of the defining songs of the era. The responses ranged were wild, with some fans joking about whether the T-1000 had finally forgiven the boy he was sent to terminate.

Related: Cookie Monster Gets Harrison Ford to Hum the Indiana Jones Theme

Off screen, the two actors took very different paths after the film. Patrick built a long, steady career across television and movies, while Furlong, who was a teenager when T2 made him a household name, stepped back from the spotlight for long stretches. That makes the simple selfie all the more special.

Terminator 2 returns to U.S. theaters on Aug. 28 through Sept. 2 for its 35th anniversary, presented in 4K and 3D by StudioCanal, Fathom Entertainment, and Rialto Pictures. The reissue is timed to the film’s fictional Judgment Day of Aug. 29. James Cameron’s 1991 sequel earned four Academy Awards and grossed more than $500 million worldwide, and it still tops many lists of the greatest action films ever made.

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If you’ve been searching for a quick and affordable way to declutter your bedroom, bathroom, entryway, or living space, Walmart has a smart solution that’s currently on sale for over 30% off. The Gunaito LED 5-Drawer Dresser is now available for just $49, down from $72, in two colors, and it offers ample storage space to stash clothing, toys, linens, accessories, and more. 

The versatile dresser comes in walnut brown and dark black, making it easy to match with any style of decor, from minimalist to farmhouse to mid-century modern. At 16 inches long, 11 inches wide, and 40 inches high, it has a tall, slim frame that’s designed to fit effortlessly in small spaces, including tight corners, narrow hallways, and more.  

Gunaita LED 5-Drawer Dresser, $49 (was $72) at Walmart

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Made with a thickened steel frame, the sturdy dresser has five large fabric drawers ideal for storing clothes, books, towels, and other essentials. Each drawer is constructed of high-quality non-woven material that’s durable and long-lasting, with a sleek round knob that allows for effortless opening and closing. The large wooden top offers additional space to display alarm clocks, candles, and photo frames, while the top shelf has a built-in charging station with two outlets, two USB ports, and a 1.5-millimeter power cord to easily charge up your devices. 

The dresser also features LED lighting with 20 colors and five adjustable speeds, allowing you to set the mood of your room through a mobile app. The lights can sync to your music to create a fun atmosphere, or you can keep them stationary and use them as a handy bedside lamp. Assembly is also simple. It comes with detailed instructions, an anti-tilting device, and adjustable feet to prevent floors from scratches or other damage. 

Related: Walmart’s ‘Roomy’ 3-Drawer Cabinet Is a ‘Beautiful’ Way to Declutter Bedrooms and Entryways

The Gunaita dresser is a Walmart bestseller, with over 750 five-star ratings online. Multiple reviewers praised the “sleek” and “modern” design. One reviewer said it adds “stylish, functional, and easy-to-assemble storage” to any space. Others also highlighted the spacious yet narrow build, calling it “perfect for small rooms.”

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With its clean, simple look, compact frame, and useful built-in features, this LED five-drawer dresser makes a versatile and practical storage solution for any home. Make sure to snag one (or two!) while it’s still on sale for under $50 at Walmart. 

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Today in 1985, Huey Lewis and the News scored their very first No. 1 hit when “The Power of Love” climbed to the top of the Billboard charts. The smash, famously penned for Back to the Future, remains a generational hit over four decades later.

The story behind how the song came to be is almost as iconic as the track itself. Frontman Lewis was approached by filmmakers, including Steven Spielberg and Robert Zemeckis, to write a theme song for the film. Initially reluctant (he famously didn’t want to pen something explicitly titled after the movie), Lewis was told he could write anything he wanted.

What came out of that freedom was “The Power of Love,” a high-energy pop-rock track that, notably, doesn’t reference the film’s plot at all. Instead, it leans into universal themes—romance, resilience, and emotional strength—helping it transcend its blockbuster origins.

Related: 1985 Pop Song, Once Spent 22 Weeks Charting, Launched the ‘Queen of the Power Ballad’s Career

“I knew it was a good song, but I didn’t actually think it was going to work for him because it had nothing to do with the movie, ostensibly,” Lewis confessed of the track, per Louder. “It was actually a love song, and Marty McFly had no love interest to speak of. That wasn’t what the movie was about.”

“But they loved it. When I sent the demo, they called back immediately to say it was fabulous. When we actually finished and mixed it, they flew up to see us – I think it was Zemeckis, Michael J. Fox, and a small entourage,” he added.

Released in June 1985, the song quickly became a commercial smash. It soared to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 on Aug. 24, marking the band’s first chart-topper in the U.S. And it didn’t stop there. It went on to hit No. 1 on the Mainstream Rock chart, it became the group’s only Top 10 hit in the UK, and even earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song.

The track’s success helped cement the band’s dominance in the mid-1980s, a period when they were already riding high off multi-platinum albums and a string of radio staples.

Next, 1986 Powerful Hit, a Cover of Their Own Rock Song, Revived Legendary Band Aerosmith’s Career

Terminator fans got a welcome treat when original star Edward Furlong posed for a photo with his on-screen parents and his enemy, the T-100, in a long-awaited cast reunion.

Terminator 2: Judgment Day was the 1991 sequel installment to the beloved sci-fi franchise by James Cameron. It was the last time Furlong reprised his role as John Connor, alongside Linda Hamilton, Robert Patrick, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Michael Biehn, and villain Robert Patrick.

On Instagram, Patrick shared a cast reunion photo with the caption, “Skynet definitely didn’t have this reunion in the original programming. T2 family back together.”

Seeing the cast back together may have been a blast from the past for fans, as Furlong has been more active in recent years at Comic Cons and special events in relation to some of his most well-known roles. He was only 13-years-old when he starred in the cult classic film and the sequel, as well as beoming one of the ’90s teen hearthrobs.

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The reunion marked a rare moment for Furlong, whose career was disrupted in his early 20s due to alcohol and drug abuse that led him to be unable to return for 2000’s Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines. Furlong was reported to have entered rehab in October 2000 when he was 23, and initially described his addiction as mostly involving alcohol.

The actor denied having used drugs like heroin and cocaine, but in a 2006 interview, he admitted having used them “on and off” for several years in his mid 20’s.

“When I lost Terminator 3. Oh my God, dude. So much drugs in my life,” Furlong admitted in 2024 on Inside of You With Michael Rosenbaum. “That was the contract: They were like, ‘We want you to not do any drugs.’ Whatever, just sign a clause in the contract, no drugs. And it was a sweet deal. It was the best deal that I had ever gotten in my life. For T3, it was like a lot of money, like millions. And I had never made that kind of money. So I called my friends, and I’m like, ‘Guys, I just signed this f‑‑‑ing awesome contract, we’re going to go to the club, we’re going to get a bunch of blow.’”

His night of celebration led the actor to overdose on cocaine and collapse on the floor of the club. As a result, Furlong lost his role in Terminator 3 as they decided, “we’re not going to do it with you.” He admits the ordeal was likely what was best for him, as he entered rehab around the time he lost the role. Since 2025, Furlong has been sober for seven years and returned to the franchise in 2019’s Dark Fate for a facial capture to create a younger version of himself for the film.

Related: Christopher McDonald Says He Was ‘Heartbroken’ When Geena Davis Left Him for Jeff Goldblum

Whenever two actors are married, there’s always the hope that they will appear in each other’s shows. So, when Morena Baccarin landed the lead on Sheriff Country, everyone looked out for signs that her husband Ben McKenzie would join her.

Then there were crickets. That is, until now, as Baccarin took to Instagram to share the exciting update. McKenzie has landed a guest spot on Sheriff Country Season 2, and there’s a new sheriff in town.

The reveal was pretty sweet, using trending audio from Family Guy. As Baccarin walks into a room, she is stopped in her tracks by McKenzie sitting down, dressed in some very similar clothing. With the line “Well, one of us is gonna have to change,” the reveal stops without revealing exactly who The OC actor will play.

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The good news is CBS revealed all. In the synopsis for the Sheriff Country Season 2 premiere, we learn that McKenzie will play Sheriff Wade, a neighboring sheriff who is called in to assist Mickey Fox. It turns out that there’s a dangerous criminal operation in Edgewater that threatens everyone there, but she can’t tackle this problem alone.

Of course, Wade has some secrets of his own. Are they connected to Mickey? That remains to be seen, but it’s possible that he could cause a few problems for her. Hopefully, she continues to listen to Boone if he gets a bad vibe from the new guy.

Fans couldn’t be more excited for the casting, with one Instagram user sharing, “Detective Gordon 👏 what an amazing actor, good choice”

Another stated: “Ha! The reunion we all needed!!”

“Cyclone” — CBS Original Series Sheriff Country, scheduled to air on Friday, October 9 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Pictured (L-R): Morena Baccarin as Sheriff Mickey Fox and Ben McKenzie as Sheriff Jim Wade. Photo: John Medland/CBS ©2026 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

The end of the first season left Mickey dealing with finding out that the DEA boss who had questioned her involvement in Wes’ underground activities was her mother, a woman she believed had died when she was just six. She only found out when she initially refused to work with her father in a new operation, only for Eva to pretty much blackmail Mickey into submission. As Wes walked into the room, he was floored by the reveal that his wife was still alive, also believing her to be long dead.

This isn’t the first time Baccarin has worked with her real-life husband. In fact, the two worked together on Gotham, which was where they met and started dating. Fans have waited for this on-screen reunion for years.

While leading Gotham, McKenzie is best known as Ryan Atwood on the 2003 teen drama The OC. He captured hearts, especially as he held a dying Marissa in his arms after the fiery crash — a TV death fans are still not over after all these years!

Related: CBS Cancels 4 Shows Including a Beloved Eight-Season Sitcom

If it feels like more items are being recalled lately, there’s now some merit to that perception, but not for the reason you might think.

The U.S. is currently at a four-year-high for recalled units across industries.

Sedgwick’s Product Safety and Recall Index report has been released for 2026. It examines recall activity across five major industries: automotive, food and drink, pharmaceutical, medical device, and consumer products. The latest edition analyzes data from January through June.

In 2026, the US is on track to exceed one billion units of recalled products in 2026 after reaching 941.2 million units in the first six months.

This year, there were 1,634 recalls in the first half of 2026, which is only two units off from 1,636 in the first half of 2025. The biggest change isn’t the number of recalls; it’s the volume of products affected.

Recalled units increased by 345.5% year-over-year. Recalls went from 211.2 million units in the first six months of 2025 to 941.2 million units in 2026. If you add July 2026, the total units exceed one billion. This is only the fourth time in the past 15 years that the annual total has surpassed one billion.

“Recall events remained flat at the half-year mark, but the number of products affected tells a very different story,” Chris Harvey, Senior Vice President, Product Innovation and Industry Engagement at Sedgwick, said in a Press Release.

“With 941 million units already recalled, businesses cannot mistake stable event totals for stable exposure risk,” Harvey continued. “Today’s risk environment is defined less by how often recalls occur and more by the scale and complexity of those that do. A single large recall can quickly transform a company’s operational, financial, and reputational risk, making tested response plans and accurate, rapid communication essential.”

Food and drink have been a major contributor to the increase in volume. Food recalled by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) grew by 2,432.1% to 37.2 million pounds. That marks 2026 as the third-highest year in more than 15 years.

Tom Selleck is heading back to television with a surprising role that’s a sharp contrast to his lengthy run on Blue Bloods.

Selleck, 81, became a TV superstar in the role of private investigator Thomas Magnum in the hit television series Magnum, P.I., which ran from 1980 to 1988. Set in Hawaii, the show follows Magnum (and his famous mustache) as he cruises around in a Ferrari. After Magnum ended in 1988, Selleck had several successful film roles like Three Men and a Baby, and a run on Friends as Dr. Richard Burke. He eventually found another powerhouse series in the aughts with Blue Bloods, in which he played NYC Police Commissioner Frank Reagan for 14 seasons alongside Donnie Wahlberg and Bridget Moynahan. But now, the star is tackling something pretty different: He’ll join the guest-starring cast of Apple TV‘s upcoming Elizabeth Banks comedy series, Deadline reported.

CBS Photo Archive / Getty Images

While the series doesn’t have a title yet, it follows Heidi (Banks), who is fresh off a messy divorce and sets out to secure a lively second act for herself and her kids. Heidi finds herself coordinating her father’s retirement community sexcapades and is forced into an unlikely alliance with his girlfriend’s perpetually single son, the piece noted.

Her father, by the way, is played by none other than Ted Danson, who famously appeared onscreen with Selleck in Three Men and a Baby. The stacked cast also includes Rob Delaney, Katey Sagal, Jared Goldstein, and Spencer Moss. Hamish Linklater, Michelle Buteau, and Simu Liu will also appear in recurring roles.

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Selleck Says He Initially Refused ‘Magnum, P.I.’—Here’s What Changed His Mind

CBS Photo Archive / Getty Images

In a recent interview with Danson and Woody Harrelson on the Where Everybody Knows Your Name podcast, Selleck admitted that he initially refused to take on the role in the way it was written.

“The show, incidentally, was called Magnum. And I hated it,” he said, Entertainment Weekly reported. “It was terrible.” 

Legendary Rockford Files star James Garner then explained to Selleck that he’d “never have more power than you do right now” if the studio really wanted him in the role, which he was contractually obligated to star in. As a result, he decided to wield his power.

“And I said no to the studio. And Jim Garner, in a way, just kind of saved my life,” Selleck said. “I would have been long gone from that version of Magnum. But it was a big fight for a long time.”

Selleck Met The Writer That Changed Everything

Originally dissatisfied with the direction the writing was going, Selleck met with three different writers to see how they’d pivot the role. He met Donald P. Bellisario, and it all clicked into place.

“[He] had lunch with me and he says, ‘What do you want to do?’ I said, ‘I want to do something like Rockford Files. I want a character with flaws and some heart.’ And he said, ‘Say no more,’” Selleck said. “He did it. And he came back in about two weeks with the best TV movie I had ever read at the time. And it was called Magnum.”

Related: Ted Danson Hit the Red Carpet With His Stunning Lookalike Daughter—and the Family Resemblance Is Uncanny

Chaka Khan says she’s officially “partnered out.”

The Queen of Funk, 73, gave a candid relationship update in a new interview with the UK’s The Observer, where she was asked about the inspiration behind a lyric on her upcoming album, “Chakzilla.” She declined to elaborate, explaining that talking too openly about what she wants tends to backfire. “I’m just going to mosey along and let life do what it do,” she told The Observer.

Khan has been married twice. Her first marriage, to Hassan Khan in 1970 when she was just 17, ended in divorce a year later. She later married Richard Holland in 1976; the couple had a son, Damien, before divorcing in 1980. Between the two marriages, Khan welcomed a daughter, Indira, now 52, with Rahsaan Morris in 1973.

The singer has been open in the past about how those marriages shaped her view of relationships. In a 2017 interview with The Guardian, she said both husbands left her unsure whether they loved her or the persona attached to her stage name. “It would take a man of biblical proportions for me to marry again,” she said at the time.

Three years earlier, Khan told the Daily Mail that the idea of being in a relationship again was actually one of her biggest fears. “Being in a relationship is my biggest fear because it renders one so helpless,” she said. She’s also joked in the past that she’s not even cut out to keep a pet, let alone a husband.

Khan’s dating remarks come as she gears up for the September release of “Chakzilla,” her first new album in years, keeping the 11-time Grammy winner, who received the Recording Academy’s Lifetime Achievement Award earlier this year, firmly in the spotlight well past her decades-long run atop the funk and R&B charts.

Which Cher song matches you, based on your birth month? Astrology reveals the answers. When it comes to singing, nothing beats the silky, sexy voice of a Taurus, and Cher is the perfect embodiment of this statement! Born on May 20, 1946, the Goddess of Pop launched her music and television career as part of a duo with Sonny Bono, reflecting her destined path towards partnership and creative self-expression.

Once her industrious Capricorn Moon took matters into her hands, her Mars in Leo confidence took her power literally off the charts, winning her an Academy Award, an Emmy, and a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction.

Over time, Cher’s regal musical art has evolved into a blend of euphoric liberation and emotional resonance, underpinned by feminist power. The minute a Cher song comes on, you know it’s time to hit the dance floor! 

The Cher Song That Reflects Your Birth Month

Check the month you were born for pro insights.

January: “If I Could Turn Back Time”

“If I could turn back time/ If I could find a way/I’d take back those words that have hurt you and you’d stay/If I could reach the stars, I’d give ’em all to you…” 

In this song about time and regret, Capricorn’s weight for the past meets the Aquarian desire to reach for the stars and rewrite a love story. Whether you’re a Capricorn or an Aquarius, It’s the ideal song to play when feeling nostalgic about the love story that never quite left your heart. 

MORE: Cher Defied Censors to Wear an Iconic, Forbidden TV Outfit in 1971

February: “Believe”

“It’s so sad that you’re leaving/ It takes time to believe it/ But after all is said and done/You’re gonna be the lonely one, oh/ Do you believe in life after love?”

There is nothing more Aquarian than the first song made with Auto-Tune, the robotic effect on voice for fun sound creation. Add to this the Piscean desire to surrender to what’s next after a painful breakup. February-born get happy and inspired when they are reminded that the power of love is forever infinite.  

March: “After All” 

“Well, here we are again/I guess it must be fate/We’ve tried it on our own/But deep inside we’ve known/We’d be back to set things straight…” 

A soft-rock melody that explores destiny and returning to a true love after taking separate paths. March Pisceans will enjoy the romantic melody, while March Aries natives see themselves taking second chances in love. After all, March is a month to embrace new beginnings. 

RELATE?: Your Dolly Parton Song, Based on Birth Month

April: “Strong Enough”

“Cause I’m strong enough to live without you/Strong enough/And I quit crying long enough/Now I’m strong enough to know you gotta go” 

Nothing is stronger than the month bridging fiery Aries with practical Taurus. Direct and confrontational, Strong Enough is the song that April babies must have on repeat when dealing with the turn of a relationship page, whether it’s in love, friendship, or even career dealings. 

May: “The Shoop Shoop Song”

“(Is it in his eyes?) Oh, no, you’ll be deceived/(Is it in his sighs?) Oh, no, he’ll make believe…If you want to know if he loves you so/It’s in his kiss (That’s where it is).”

Sensual but curious and playful, Cher’s 1990’s vintage soul-pop song is about discovering the truth about a new love interest. It connects the senses (Taurus) with the discoverability that Gemini energy is infatuated with. This breezy, feel-good song may be the perfect background when getting ready for a date. 

June: “I Got You, Babe”

“They say we’re young and we don’t know/We won’t find out until we grow/Well I don’t know if all that’s true/’Cause you got me, and baby, I got you/Babe/I got you babe, I got you babe…”

Dating back to Cher’s Venus-in-Gemini duo times with Sonny, this song approaches the conversation of a young couple weathering the challenges of long-term partnership. In it, June-borns also find the nurturing and devoted love so characteristic of the zodiac sign Cancer. 

July: “Gypsies, Tramps & Thieves”

“Gypsies, tramps, and thieves/We’d hear it from the people of the town/They’d call us gypsies, tramps, and thieves/But every night all the men would come around/And lay their money down…” 

A song that focuses on the out-of-the-ordinary upbringing of a girl feels like honoring her roots and family is very nostalgic, like only Cancer can be. The tone, however, is very Leo-like, full of pride and unapologetically bold statements about her past. Whether you’re a Cancer or a Leo, these lyrics may pull you into the world of melodic storytelling. 

August: “Woman’s World”

“Torn up, busted, taken apart/I’ve been broken down/Left with a broken heart/But I’m stronger/Strong enough to rise above/This is a woman’s world/This is a woman’s world…” 

Cher’s fast, loud, and celebratory Mars in Leo shines brightly in this upbeat dance-pop and EDM song. But the message it carries, which is about healing women by lifting their spirits and supporting them in taking up space, aligns with Virgo’s feminine side. August babies, this is your pick-me-up song! 

September: “Love and Understanding” 

“We’ve got enough cars to drive around the world/Enough planes to take us anywhere/We got more than enough, but there’s one thing/There’s just not enough of/Not enough love and understanding…”

No other Cher song feels more service-oriented and socially conscious than this one. September Virgos will enjoy the goddess of pop’s desire for bringing change to the world. September Libras cherish its message of prioritizing emotional connection and empathy over material wealth. A heartwarming song for September-born to feel inspired. 

October: “Dark Lady” 

“Dark lady laughed and danced and lit the candles one by one/Danced to her gypsy music ’til her brew was done… She told me more about me than I knew myself…” 

Cher’s most tragic song is about a woman who seeks relationship advice from a witch only to find out she’s involved with her boyfriend. Featuring the occult, relationship drama, and betrayal, this song is both Libra and Scorpio coded—the perfect background playlist for the witchy nights those born in October love so much. 

November: “Half-Breed” 

“Half-breed, that’s all I ever heard/Half-breed, how I learned to hate the word/Half-breed, “She’s no good,” they warned/Both sides were against me since the day I was born…” 

Being a song about the difficulty of identity and social acceptance, this song presents the story of a mixed-race woman. It blends the Scorpionic journey of inner strength with the truth-telling nature of Sagittarius. Listening to it may take you to the hardest moments in your life, while reminding you of what you’ve overcome that has made you stronger. 

December: “Take Me Home” 

“Wrapped in your arms tonight/Just making love/Music and candlelight/Stars up above/Take me home (take me home), take me home (take me home)…” 

Even superstars have success dips from time to time—and this song marked Cher’s epic return to disco after a few commercial flops. Whether you’re a Sagittarius who likes to live—and love—fast, or a nostalgic Capricorn loving all things vintage, this song about a one-night stand will get you dancing all night long. 

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One of Hollywood’s jaw-dropping relationship breakups was between Christopher McDonald and Geena Davis, with the former opening up about the Tootsie actor breaking off their engagement to be with her co-star.

Speaking in a recent career retrospective at the SAG-AFTRA Foundation, the Happy Gilmore star looks back at having been engaged to Davis in the mid-1980s before she met Jeff Goldblum. The two actors began dating sometime between 1983 and 1984 before they became major Hollywood stars.

“Geena Davis and I were engaged to be married for about five weeks and she fell in love with Jeff Goldblum doing her first movie over there in Europe,” McDonald shared. “And I don’t blame him. She’s stunningly beautiful and everything like that, but you know, what happens on sets — things sometimes happen.”

McDonald admits that while he understood what happened, he was still “broken” over her having fallen for someone else. The project in question was the film Transylvania 6-5000, a horror comedy about two reporters who travel to modern-day Transylvania to uncover the truth behind Frankenstein sightings. Goldblum starred in the leading role as Jack Harrison, alongside Davis as Odette Balu. At the time, McDonald was working on his own project and had plans to meet up with the actor.

“I was doing Hamlet at the time, playing Laertes, and I had another three weeks to finish and then I was going to go over and join her,” McDonald added. “So I got the bad news from Ed Begley. He did me that solid. I mean I was really, really devastated.”

Davis and Goldblum would end up getting married in 1987 and even starred together in The Fly and Earth Girls Are Easy. The two later filed for divorce in 1990, and it was finalized in 1991. Davis once said that her relationship with the actor “was a magical chapter” in her life.

It just so happened that McDonald and Davis would reunite on screen in 1991 for the buddy comedy-drama Thelma & Louise. Directed by Ridley Scott, Davis played the leading role of Louise Sawyer, and McDonald ended up playing her on-screen husband, Darryl Dickinson.

“It’s literally five years later and [Davis] said to [Director Ridley Scott], ‘Who’d you get to play my husband?’ and he said, ‘Oh, you’ll love him, he’s tall, he’s funny, uh …. what’s his name? Chris McDonald,” and then she said, ‘I used to go with him,’ and he said, ‘Even better, perfect!’” recalled McDonald.

He called working with his ex-fiancée “cathartic,” with the actor marrying actor Lupe Gidley a year later in 1992. The couple has four children.

Fantasy novels are alluring to many readers as they pull individuals away from the mundanity of everyday life and into vast worlds where orcs, elves, and dragons roam. Fantasy fans also enjoy protagonists who, no matter their status in their society, manage to give the good fight and vanquish evil, usually with a lovable team of friends at their sides.

The publication Collider highlighted a few of the best fantasy books published relatively recently. The ranking, titled “The 10 Greatest Fantasy Books of the Last 20 Years,” included magical novels like 2011’s Prince of Thorns by Mark Lawrence, George R. R. Martin‘s A Dance with Dragons, also published in 2011, and The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch, released in 2006. According to Collider, the “greatest fantasy book of the last 20 years” is Brandon Sanderson‘s Oathbringer, published in 2017. The New York Times Best-Selling novel, which is over 1,000 pages long, marks Sanderson’s third The Stormlight Archive installment.

Oathbringer has a rating of 4.60 out of 5 from 389,485 readers on Goodreads.

Brandon Sanderson Explained the Premise of ‘Oathbringer’ in 2017

While speaking to G3EK at a premiere party for Oathbringer in 2017, Sanderson shared what readers needed to know before opening up the book. He explained that The Stormlight Archive series, which currently has five books, is “kind of a combination between multiple characters’ storylines,” specifically Kaladin Stormblessed, Shallan Davar, and Dalinar Kholin.

Sanderson stated that Dalinar, the main protagonist of Oathbringer, “is a former warlord who gained conscience through certain events and came to kind of realize maybe I shouldn’t just be destroying.” However, Dalinar isn’t sure how to change his behavior.

“The first book [The Way of Kings (2010)] he started seeing visions that a lot of people thought he was going crazy. He’s like, ‘Why would I see visions? I’m a terrible person.’ And it’s kind of this story will do flashbacks to catch him up to where that first book began. And then also bringing his story along a little bit further, so a lot of mysteries are going get dug into in this book,” teased Sanderson.

During the G3EK interview, Sanderson also explained that his fantasy books mirror modern-day issues.

“I write the fantasy books because they’re reflections of all the things I’m thinking about right now. And so the fantasy books, we taught a joke about this, and actually, about the past, they’re kind of about the present, but seeing through the lens of these weird things happening in the fantastical worlds,” said the author in the 2017 interview.

As the Lindsay Clancy trial continues, a major update occurred today, following the lunch break. Dr. Kirk Heilbrun, a psychologist, has been called as part of the prosecution’s rebuttal and took the stand today. Dr. Heilbrun had already answered a number of questions and provided his perspective on various aspects of the case, including his understanding of whether Clancy has been appropriately diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

However, as the witness was describing the extent to which he felt Clancy was aware of her actions or not when she allegedly strangled her three children in 2023, and/or aware of the wrongdoing of her actions at the time, he began to discuss his understanding of the Catholic teachings, as that is the religion with which Clancy was raised. Clancy’s attorney, Kevin Reddington, objected, at which point Judge William Sullivan called the attorneys into a sidebar discussion.

Ultimately, when the attorneys and Judge Sullivan returned from the sidebar, without the jury present, Reddington moved for a mistrial on the basis of alleged inappropriate lines of questioning from the prosecution, specifically as it relates to Clancy’s religion. The prosecution then had a chance to argue against a mistrial. After hearing both perspectives, Judge Sullivan decided against a mistrial.

However, Judge Sullivan did bring the jury back into the room, strike Dr. Heilbrun’s testimony regarding Clancy’s religion and the Catholic faith and told the jury that it was “absolutely an inappropriate area of testimony” and “cannot be considered.” He then dismissed the jury for the day. He also told the prosecution, “In perhaps the strongest language, talk to [Dr. Heilbrun], and let him know he can’t go into that.” Court will return tomorrow morning.

If you or someone you know needs mental health help, text “HOME” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 or visit their website.

Even as airport lounges have moved past the days of lukewarm steam trays and stale coffee for sleek bars and high-end menus, many spaces still feel like glossy variations of the exact same luxury hotel lobby.

JetBlue’s brand-new BlueHouse Boston—which officially opened its doors at Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) Terminal C at 5 a.m. this morning—throws that playbook completely out the window.

Spanning 12,000 square feet in a prime, central location post-security, the airline’s second lounge location (following its award-winning debut at New York-JFK) is an unapologetic, high-style love letter to Boston and coastal Massachusetts. From Nantucket-blue wood finishes and copper accents to residential-style seating you’d actually want in your own living room, the space balances high-end boutique elegance with clever local nods.

“BlueHouse Boston is designed to feel like a warm, stylish New England home—welcoming, comfortable and full of details that spark inspiration and nostalgia,” said Stephanie Evans Greene, senior vice president, marketing and brand, JetBlue. “From the local partnerships and artwork to the playful surprises throughout the space, we wanted customers to feel connected to Boston just like JetBlue.”

Related: This Major Airline Just Dropped $54 Fall Flights—and $299 Tickets to Europe

Playful Easter Eggs, Curated Art, and Boston Landmarks

JetBlue

What makes the lounge truly stand out from the minute you cross the residential-inspired threshold is how much genuine personality is baked into every corner.

The space showcases 60 unique pieces of artwork, including two original creations by JetBlue crewmembers. In the private, quiet spaces, travelers will find charming nods like a Paul Revere peephole, Duck Tour-inspired wallpaper in the restrooms, and an exclusive, hand-painted wall mural by Boston-born author and illustrator Richard Scarry, featuring recognizable characters from his Busy World alongside a custom JetBlue aircraft.

Meghann Foye

Over in The Dugout—a dedicated game lounge celebrating local sports heritage—there is a replica of Fenway’s iconic Green Monster, complete with authentic baseball dents.

Meghann Foye

At the center of the lounge sits The Neighborhood Bar, framed by a warm Nantucket-blue slatted ceiling and a custom lighting fixture designed to sync in real time with Boston’s iconic Berkeley Building weather beacon (“Steady blue, clear view; flashing blue, clouds due; steady red, rain ahead; flashing red, snow instead”).

Meghann Foye

For travelers who want a bit of fun before a long flight, there’s a working photo booth and The Candy Closet—a hidden, retro-style confectionery station curated by Madeleine’s Candy Shop stocked with rotating seasonal treats and custom carry-on candy bags.

Related: JetBlue Plans to Launch a ‘More Affordable’ First Class Option for Travelers

Elevating the Culinary Standard: Chunky Avocado, Fresh Smoothies, and Local Craft Brews

Plenty of airport lounges promise gourmet dining—even if the reality is often more “fancy cafeteria” than fine dining—but the menu here actually feels like a cozy, high-end neighborhood brunch spot.

Morning travelers are greeted with a breakfast spread that includes fresh pastries, made-to-order smoothies, hearty breakfast sandwiches, and avocado toast topped with actual, generous avocado chunks (a true rarity in the airport dining world).

For coffee lovers, the lounge partners with local Massachusetts specialty roaster George Howell Coffee for single-origin espresso and pour-overs.

Later in the day, the kitchen transitions into hot, plated regional specialties like North Shore roast beef sliders, fresh crab and shrimp rolls, and craft pints from Brookline’s The Publick House. The craft cocktail menu—curated by renowned Boston bar director Jackson Cannon of Equal Measure—features both refined classics and creative, ingredient-forward drinks inspired by JetBlue liveries.

Related: JetBlue Just Launched a First-of-Its-Kind Monthly Subscription

Who Gets In—and How JetBlue Is Tackling Overcrowding

JetBlue

As lounge lines continue to plague terminals nationwide, JetBlue is keeping an eye on capacity while rolling out a major perk upgrade: all passengers traveling on Mint and Mint Flex fares (domestic and international) will now receive complimentary BlueHouse access starting August 27.

“Our customers choose Mint for an elevated travel experience, and we want to give
them more ways to shape that experience around what matters to them,” said Marty St. George, president, JetBlue. “BlueHouse remains a signature benefit for our most loyal customers, while access through eligible Mint fares gives customers another way to make their journey even more rewarding.”

Access rules at a glance:

• Complimentary Access: JetBlue Premier Cardmembers, TrueBlue Mosaic 4 members (both allowed one complimentary guest), and Mint/Mint Flex ticket holders.
• Paid Single-Pass Access (Subject to Space Availability): Mosaic 3 members ($59), Mosaic 1–2 members ($79), and JetBlue Plus/Business cardholders ($79).

Whether you’re settling into a green-banker-lamp desk in the quiet Library Workspace or grabbing a coffee before hopping on a transatlantic flight, BlueHouse Boston is setting a whole new standard for what a hometown airport lounge should feel like.

Related: JetBlue Joins ‘Basic Premium’ Trend With Cheaper First-Class Options

Once your favorite streamers started dominating the Emmy races every year, it was only a matter of time before they started immersing themselves in unscripted.

There’s a whole world out there in the reality TV space, as viewers from all generations are aware. Fans these days like to follow along with their favorite small-screen celebrities, whether it’s the Real Housewives or even a renowned chef.

Enter Being Gordon Ramsay, which premiered on Netflix earlier this year and was just renewed for a second season, Deadline reports. Other unscripted renewals include season 9 of Formula 1: Drive to Survive and season 4 of Love Is Blind: UK.

Here’s Netflix’s official synopsis of the chef’s reality show: “Follow celeb chef Gordon Ramsay behind the scenes as he juggles family life, global empire and his biggest launch yet in this all-you-can-eat documentary.”

On the narrative TV front, it was also reported Monday, August 24 that Netflix’s The Gentlemen has already been renewed for a third season — and the second hasn’t even premiered yet. What did drop on Monday, however, was a trailer for season 2 of Guy Ritchie‘s hit series. Check out the YouTube clip below.

The Gentlemen has made headlines in other ways of late after Meghan Markle was recently in talks to join the show — but then reports surfaced more recently that she had been dropped amid U.K. backlash surrounding the casting decision.

“The backlash in the U.K. was so intense, it became untenable to go forward,” Tina Brown, former editor-in-chief of Vanity Fair and The New Yorker, wrote on Substack Saturday, August 21. “This does not bode well for Meghan’s acting comeback in the U.K.”

One day earlier, The Hollywood Reporter claimed that the former Suits actress, 45, was in “advanced discussions” to join season 3 of the series, which films in the U.K.

It’s only natural that we want our children to feel great about themselves. They’re learning how to navigate the world, which isn’t exactly an easy task, so you want to bolster them and assure them that they’re doing a good job—right?

While this is certainly an admirable goal, you might be stepping into “overpraising,” which falls in line with toxic positivity in parenting. In fact, research shows that too much praise can actually lead to lower self-esteem in children.

An expert weighs in on overpraising kids: Dr. Brett Biller, PsyD, a child psychologist at Hackensack University Medical Center, says that praising is important for children to develop positive self-perceptions as well as develop feelings that form the foundation for motivation. 

But, “not all praise, even when frequent, will achieve the intent we desire unless the praise is specific.”  

For instance, using ambiguous praise, such as saying things like “Good job,” can imply that the child the praise is directed at understands the intent of the individual delivering the praise, as Dr. Biller says. 

“Specific praise, such as, ‘Good job sharing with your brother,” enhances positive feelings related to an identifiable action, thus increasing the likelihood of that desired behavior to be repeated,” he points out. 

While there are wise ways to go about it, there are some dangers of overpraising a child. Read on to learn more.

Related: The #1 Mistake Parents and Grandparents Should Avoid Making With Their Kids, According to a Psychologist

The Trap of ‘Person Praise’: Why ‘You’re So Smart’ Backfires

Dr. Biller defines “person praise” as “complimenting general qualities of a child and includes statements such as, ‘You are so smart’ or ‘You have a natural talent.’”  

“While praise of qualities or outcomes can be positive, when applying ‘person praise’ with children, we create a bind where the child is rewarded for a quality or feature of themself, rather than effort or intent,” he explains further. 

The psychologist goes on to say: “The trap of such praising style is evident when we recognize that praise is most effective when it enhances feelings about what they control, such as effort and/or intent, rather than simply making them feel good about a quality, as we have little ability to enhance a quality.”

Related: Parents Who Raise Confident Kids Tend To Avoid These 8 Phrases, According to a Child Psychologist

The Solution: The Power of ‘Process Praise’

As an alternative, there’s something called “process praise” you can turn to. When it comes to this versus person praise, process praise “speaks to the efforts or actions of the child rather than simply focusing on the outcome or a trait,” as Dr. Biller puts it.

“Process praise enhances the likelihood of an action that resulted in a positive outcome,” he adds, and says that this approach is most helpful when utilized to praise progress toward an end goal. These are the scenarios when you, as a parent, start to learn how to praise effort, not outcome.

What To Say Instead of ‘Good Job’

“The praise, ‘Good job,’ is not problematic—unless stated without a specific qualifier,” Dr. Biller explains.

So how do you fix this, while still giving your child the support they need?

“Be intentional with your praise, rather than accidental,” he suggests. “Specific praise ensures that your child is certain of what you are praising. Additionally, praise an action so that it can be repeated.”     

Phrases to build intrinsic motivation

Intrinsic motivation in children means that they have their own desire and drive to do something that won’t necessarily result in a reward. And there are ways to foster this. 

First of all, Dr. Biller says that you should focus on specific praise that speaks to a child’s actions toward an outcome, which will have a positive effect.  

As he points out, some growth mindset praise examples include: “I am so impressed by the effort you put in studying for your test,” “Great job keeping the ball moving throughout the game,” or “You are such a role model to your brother when you share.”  

“Each of the examples demonstrates that praise must be focused on the process, rather than the outcome,” he notes. 

Related: 6 Compliments a Child Psychologist Is Begging Parents and Grandparents To Stop Saying

When It’s Okay to Just Say ‘Good Job’

“‘Good job’ on its own can be intentional and reinforcing if the focus of the praise is certain,” Dr. Biller says. “Often, children are specific when speaking about the action we hope is replicated.”

He says that when you identify the action, “Good job” is appropriate, since adding specificity may be redundant.   

“For example,” he shares, “when a child exclaims, ‘My studying really paid off!,’ it would be appropriate to respond, ‘Good job,’ since the focus of the praise—studying—is clearly understood to be the effort rather than the outcome.”

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Related: We Asked 3 Child Psychologists What Compliment Is Best for Kids—They All Said the Same Thing

Sources:

• Dr. Brett A. Biller, PsyD, is a child psychologist at Hackensack University Medical Center.
• “That’s not just beautiful–that’s incredibly beautiful!”: the adverse impact of inflated praise on children with low self-esteem. (2014) Psychological Science.