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As expected with any list ranking the 30 greatest living American songwriters, The New York Times was always going to endure their fair share of criticism, most especially when it came to the influential songwriters they chose to leave off of the list for one reason or another.

Case in point with the exclusion of musical legend Billy Joel, who was notably absent from The NY Times' list, which included the likes of Bad Bunny, Kendrick Lamar, Taylor Swift, Mariah Carey and Carole King.

When it came time to explain Joel's lack of presence on their list, the newspaper only seemed to fan the flames a bit more than necessarily intended, further earning the ire of longtime fans of Joel's work.

As the outlet wrote in a recent story explaining their decision, "Billy Joel is a very good example of a person who writes one or 1.5 kinds of songs really well," citing the singer's non-diverse discography as the primary reason for his absence.

In response, dozens of readers openly criticized The New York Times, defending Joel and citing his versatile musical style on some of the artist's best known albums.

"Hmm. That's a weird observation given Joel's breadth of work," one user commented on Facebook. "Barbershop, doo wop, jazz, swing, rock, Broadway, folk and there's more. So what is 1.5?"

"He wrote three great songs in one with 'Scenes From an Italian Restaurant,'" another fan added. "The man is a songwriting genius and anyone who argues the other way is just wasting their breath - they're objectively wrong."

Similarly, many social media profiles on platforms like Reddit seemed shocked by Joel's omission, with numerous accounts also citing their surprise at not finding certain other artists featured on The New York Times' list.

"Adrianne Lenker is absolutely one of the best living American songwriters, should’ve been included," shared one account.

"Not gonna even bother reading this list now knowing that Sufjan Stevens isn’t included," wrote another user.

Prince William and Kate Middleton looked elegant and very royal while hosting a garden party at Buckingham Palace on May 8.

William, 43, and Kate, 44, appeared on the steps to the royal gardens at 4 p.m. to mark the start of the event. The 8,000 partygoers stood for the national anthem before mingling, snacking, and enjoying the gorgeous weather. The guest list included representatives from the couple's respective patronages and the charities they champion, as well as local people making a difference in their community. William’s cousin Zara Tindall also joined the festivities, as well as his uncle, Prince Edward, and aunt, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh.

LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 8: Catherine, Princess of Wales and Prince William, Prince of Wales during a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace on May 8, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Aaron Chown - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

Aaron Chown - WPA Pool/Getty Images

Princess Kate looked particularly elegant for the occasion, wearing a cream-colored Self-Portrait polka dot midi dress. The full skirt featured black and white polka dots and a white belt, while the blazer-style top was adorned with a 3D flower appliqué. She paired the look with a vintage cream colored hat wrapped in black tulle and nude colored shoes. However, her jewelry was extra special. She accessorized with Queen Elizabeth II’s Bahrain Pearl Drop earrings, a prized item of the late monarch after the gemstones were gifted to her from the Hakim of Bahraim for her 1947 wedding to Prince Philip.

William, for his part, dressed formally for the occasion in a traditional morning suit with tails paired with a black top hat. He also carried an umbrella to block out the bright sun.

William and Kate’s garden party was the second of the season. King Charles IIIand Queen Camilla hosted a similar soiree two days prior, which was attended by Princess Anne, Edward, and Sophie. Garden parties have been held at Buckingham Palace since the 1860s, and are a traditional way for the monarch to recognize public service. Around 30,000 people total attend the different parties annually, celebrating all areas of public service and British society. 2026 marked the second garden party William and Kate have hosted as a couple, with 2025 being their first.

Britain's Catherine, Princess of Wales and Britain's Prince William, Prince of Wales arrive to attend a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace, in London, on May 8, 2026. (Photo by Jonathan Brady / POOL / AFP via Getty Images)

Jonathan Brady / POOL / AFP via Getty Images

The event comes at a busy time for the Prince and Princess of Wales. William was spotted cheering on his team, Aston Villa, as they won against Nottingham Forest on May 7. As for Kate, she’s gearing up for her first trip abroad since announcing her cancer diagnosis in 2024. In January 2025, the princess announced her cancer is in remission, and she has since been ramping up her schedule as her health improves.

Kate will travel to Reggio Emilia in Italy on May 13. The two-day trip will be to study the renowned early education approach on behalf of her Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood.

“The Princess is very much looking forward to visiting Italy next week and seeing first-hand how the Reggio Emilia approach creates environments where nature and loving human relationships come together to support children’s development,” her spokesperson said in a statement to People.

The Princess of Wales launched The Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood in 2021. The charity uses research-backed information to change how society views and prioritizes the first years of life.

Fans of the longest-running game show, The Price is Right,got to see history being made while tuning in for the Mother's Day episode on Friday, May 8. Vanessa from Virginia didn't know what was coming when she heard her name and the infamous line "Come on down!", but now, her life has been changed after winning a record-breaking prize while playing "The Lion's Share."

Vanessa won a whopping $240,000 while playing "The Lion's Share" on Friday's episode, making her the biggest winner in a single game in the history of The Price Is Right. Before her big win, the record was set when Michael Stouber pulled in $202,000 playing "Plinko" during a "Big Money Week" episode on October 14, 2019.

"From ‘Come on Down’ to playing ‘The Lion’s Share,’ it all felt so surreal - a dream moment that only kept getting bigger. I was nervous, excited and everything at once. Winning over $200,000 is life changing. I plan to invest wisely, enjoy a little and treat my mom to a special surprise," said Vanesa after her big win.

BetMGM/CBS

"The Lion's Share" is the first custom-branded game, sponsored by BetMGM, to appear on The Price is Right. The new game made its debut on Sept. 22, 2025, during the Season 54 premiere episode, and the first person to play it, Marian, won a trip to Tokyo, a hot tub, two guitars, and cash.

The maximum cash prize that can be won playing "The Lion's Share" is $500,000. To kick off the game, the player is shown a series of small items and a two-digit number for each of them. They are asked to determine if that price is "true" or "false" and, if correct, they will earn a ball. Up to five balls can be won in that part of the game and then, the contestant moves on to "The Wind Chamber," where they will have 30 seconds to grab however many balls they won from the 40 balls that are flying around inside the clear chamber.

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BetMGM/CBS

The third phase of the game is where the contestant gets a chance to reveal their balls, in order and they must be strategic. They can choose to stop at any time and leave with what they have won so far, or continue revealing balls. However, there are five balls in the chamber that say "Lose It All" and if one of those pops up during the reveal, they will lose everything they have won so far in the game. The remaining balls are marked with cash prizes and other items like cars, boats, and trips.

Now that BetMGM's game "The Lion's Share" has made Vanessa from Virginia the new record-holder on The Price is Right, it will be interesting to see how long she holds the title.

The Price is Right, hosted by Drew Carey, airs weekdays on CBS and streams on Paramount+.

Almost 50 years ago today, the legendary English rock band released an album that changed their lives forever.

The Cure debuted their record Three Imaginary Boys on May 8, 1979. The deluxe version included hits such as “Boys Don't Cry” and “Jumping Someone Else's Train.”

The band, originally called Easy Cure, was formed by lead singer RobertSmith in 1976 with classmates Michael Dempsey, Lol Tolhurst, and PorlThompson. Thompson left in 1978, and they rebranded to The Cure.

While the album did not become an instant sensation, it saw commercial success and was generally admired by critics… except one. 

NME journalist Paul Morley wrote a negative review of Three Imaginary Boys, and the band did not take well to it. The Cure responded with the unreleased song “Desperate Journalist.” It included jabs at the writer's word choice and called him an “insubstantial froth.”

Through stunts like these, The Cure earned their spot in the alternative rock community. The group has produced 14 studio albums, with the most recent released in November 2024.

Throughout the years, the lineup has fluctuated. Smith has remained the only consistent member. He reflected on the band’s history in a 2018 interview with Rolling Stone magazine.

“One of the lovely things about the band is that we’re able to headline Glastonbury, play Hyde Park, and be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but we’re still considered to be slightly weird and outsider kind of band,” Smith said. “It’s a perfect position to be in.”

After 50 years, he is content with what The Cure has accomplished.

“As a band, I think probably the fact that we achieved a certain degree of success and maintained it on our own terms, I think that would be the legacy that I’d be proud of, as I enter old age, to think I was part of it,” he said. “But when we play as the Cure, I want it to be something that makes other people feel something. It’s not really just about me. It’s just that spark.”

The Cure has an upcoming European tour this summer.

Is Jackson Olson from the Savannah Bananas joining next season of Dancing With The Stars?

Speculation started back in April when the baseball star alluded to having a big secret he couldn't share with fans just yet.

"I have been so happy the last couple months and everything feels so new and exciting for the first time in a long time," Olson wrote on Instagram. "My life is going to change a lot in the next year but in the best ways possible (yes there are a couple ways👀) and I can’t wait to share all of it with you soon."

In the comment section, DWTS judge Derek Hough commented, "👀."

Rumors intensified on Thursday, May 7 when Olson posted an Instagram Reel of himself dancing underneath the text, "Jackson when can you share the secret you've been keeping from us?"

"Soon…👀," Jackson captioned the post, adding #secret, #baseball, #NYC, #reveal.

RELATED: Witney Carson and Ezra Sosa Reveal the ‘Villains’ of ‘DWTS’

In the background of the video, which was filmed on a baseball field, eagle-eyed fans noticed a small mirrorball tucked in the corner of the dugout.

Others claimed in the comment section that Olson's original caption was "Don't Worry guys i Will tell you Soon," capitalizing the letters of DWTS before changing it to be less obvious.

The last big hint? Olson put the hashtag for New York City in his post, and Disney and ABC’s Upfront is in NYC on Thursday, May 12. The Upfront is used to showcase the network’s upcoming lineup of shows for the fall, including DWTS.

If announced at the Upfront, Olson would be the third confirmed contestant for the upcoming season—following reality stars Maura Higgins and Ciara Miller.

RELATED: Priscilla Presley Opens Up About ‘DWTS’ Experience: ‘Could Not Wait to Get Kicked Off’

Olson first expressed his desire to join the reality competition show in a TikTok posted in December 2025.

“Jackson, would you go on Dancing With the Stars next season?” read the text above his head in a mock-interview style video. Shaking his head, Olson replied: “No I wouldn’t, it’s just not my style.” 

The video then cut to a montage of clips featuring Olson showing off his best dance moves. 

“Long story short…yes, yes I would,” he captioned the post.

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Lab-grown diamonds are a major trend right now, and for good reason. Although they’re more affordable than natural diamonds, they have the same sparkle and overall look, so much so that it’s hard to tell the difference between the two. If you’re in the market for your first lab-grown diamond piece, or just want to add a sparkly accessory to your jewelry collection, consider this dazzling Gold Plated 0.20ctw Diamond Heart Pendant with Chain. It’s gorgeous, and it’s on sale for just $90 on ShopHQ.

Gold Plated 0.20ctw Diamond Heart Pendant with Chain, $90 (was $180) at ShopHQ

Courtesy of ShopHQ

It’s been marked down a jaw dropping 50% from its original $180 price tag, which makes it an incredible deal. Plus, through May 11, you can save 20% off all Jewelry orders $99 and over sitewide, so grab one before the weekend is out if you’re eyeing it. The stunning necklace has a 14K gold-plated, heart-shaped pendant that is topped with .20 carats of sparkling lab-grown, round-cut diamonds. 

Save 20% off all jewelry orders sitewide $99+ from May 8-11. 

The diamonds are near colorless, giving them a bright white appearance, and they have a I2-I3 clarity grade, which means they may have imperfections, but they aren’t easy to see, particularly at the size of the diamonds in the pendant. The pendant is small, measuring about 1.2 inches long, 0.75 inches wide, and 0.2 inches deep, and it weighs about 5 grams. So, it has a delicate look and feel that you can wear every day without overpowering your ensemble. The necklace comes complete with an 18-inch gold chain that closes securely with a spring ring clasp.

Related: This Dazzling Diamond Pendant Necklace Looks So Luxe, and It’s on Sale for 40% Off

As a bonus, the pendant is removable, so it can easily be swapped onto other chains for different styling options. Its small stature make it versatile to wear with a variety of looks and a staple for everyday wear. Pair it with a breezy sundress and sandals or a T-shirt and jeans for a casual spring and summer daytime look. Or, wear it at night, with a top and fitted trousers or a cocktail dress for a spring evening gala. It’s also perfect for gifts because of its romantic aesthetic and seamless versatility. 

Shop More Deals

• Toscana Italiana 18K Gold Plated Adjustable Beaded Necklace, $30 (was $185) at ShopHQ
• Invicta Women's 27mm Angel Quartz Crystal Halo Heart-Shaped Mini Watch Necklace, $70 (was $395) at ShopHQ
• TRYNDI Rhodium Plated "Love Knot" Swarovski Crystal Accented Necklace, $100 (was $130 at ShopHQ

This dazzling diamond-simulated heart chain is stunning, and it’s the perfect gift for yourself or for a loved one. Grab one while it's just $90! 

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When it comes to getting your outdoor space ready for spring and summer, the finishing touches often make the biggest difference. It’s easy to focus on larger pieces like patio furniture or planters, but smaller details are what actually make a backyard or balcony feel cozy and inviting. Ambient lighting is one of the simplest ways to completely change the mood of an outdoor setup, especially at night. 

One charming option worth checking out is the Tiokmc Solar-Powered Outdoor Hanging Lanterns. Right now, they’re on sale for 63% off at Walmart, bringing the price down from $30 to just $11 for a pack of two. 

Tiokmc Solar-Powered Outdoor Hanging Lanterns, $11 (was $30) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

The lanterns come in a two-pack and are available in either a warm white glow or a multicolored version for something more playful and whimsical. Each lantern measures 4.9 inches tall and 3.5 inches long and wide, making them compact enough to fit almost anywhere without overwhelming your space. Their small size also makes them easy to mix into existing outdoor decor.

These lanterns are designed for versatility, so you can hang them from hooks, fences, or tree branches, or simply place them on a tabletop for a softer glow. They work especially well on patios, pathways, balconies, and garden spaces where you want a little extra ambiance without adding bulky lighting fixtures. Since they automatically illuminate at night, they create a cozy atmosphere with almost no effort.

The solar-powered design is another major highlight. The lanterns charge throughout the day using direct sunlight and automatically turn on at dusk for about six to eight hours after a full charge. Charging typically takes around eight to 10 hours in sunlight. Because they run entirely on solar energy, there’s no wiring, batteries, or electricity costs involved, which makes them both eco-friendly and low-maintenance.

Related: Walmart’s 'Comfy' $116 Rattan Patio Sofa Is Ready for Outdoor Entertaining Season

The lanterns are made from sturdy ABS plastic that’s designed to resist rust and outdoor wear. They also feature an IP44 waterproof rating, which helps protect them against rain and light snow. That means they can stay outside through changing weather conditions without needing constant maintenance or protection.

Shoppers praised this bestselling product in reviews. One reviewer described them as “very pretty and sparkly” in a five-star review. Another shared, “With two large dogs in the yard, having anything with wires isn’t ideal. These small little fairy light lanterns screwed along my fence added just the right amount of ambiance and didn’t pose a danger to my dogs.”

Shop More Deals

• Daybetter Outdoor String Lights, From $16 (was $30) at Walmart
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If you’re looking for an easy and affordable way to refresh your outdoor space this season, the Tiokmc Solar-Powered Outdoor Hanging Lanterns are a great pick. With Walmart’s current 63% discount, you can save nearly $20 on this top-rated set right now.

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Earning the role of "Vivian Ward" in Pretty Woman was the opportunity of a lifetime for Oscar-winning actress Julia Roberts. The film solidified her status as "America's Sweetheart" in the early '90s, and also helped her obtain both a Best Actress Golden Globe award and her first Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.

Still, Roberts has the success of Pretty Woman to thank, along with a fellow household name as equally familiar with playing quintessential Hollywood characters— '80s Brat Pack icon Molly Ringwald.

During a Reddit AMA in 2012, the Pretty in Pink actress revealed that although she was up for the part of Vivian, it ultimately wasn't hers to take. "I think I saw an early draft, and it was called $3000. I don't specifically remember turning it down," admitted Ringwald. "The script was okay, but I gotta say, Julia Roberts is what makes the movie. It was her part. Every actor hopes for a part that lets them shine like that. Roberts made the part of Vivian, a sex worker, her own, opposite Richard Gere, who was known as wealthy corporate raider Edward Lewis in Pretty Woman."

Many years later, Ringwald further explained what turned her off from starring in the Garry Marshall rom-com. She admitted to The Guardian in 2023, "Julia Roberts was wonderful in it, but I didn't really like the story. Even then, I felt like there was something icky about it." In the same article, the When It Happens to You author went into detail about the heavy weight of being a teen idol while having an inescapable girl-next-door image. "I needed to get out from under all that scrutiny. I just wasn't cut out for it in a way that certain other people are. Some people are really good at it. Taylor Swift is amazing! But I didn't feel comfortable with that level of stardom," she stated.

Molly Ringwald at Family Equality's Night; Photo by Adela Loconte/Variety via Getty Images

"I didn't really feel like darker roles were available to me. The ones that I wanted to do, I didn't get. I was too young for certain roles. I was at this weird in-between stage." Ringwald was turned down for the lead in the 1988 romantic dramedy Working Girl and for the lead female role in the 1991 psychological horror thriller The Silence of the Lambs. Jodie Foster famously landed the part in the latter as "Clarice Starling."

Molly Ringwald and Julia Roberts have continued to carve their own successful paths in Hollywood since the release of Pretty Woman. In recent years, Ringwald has captivated audiences in TV shows including Riverdale, Feud, and Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story. And Roberts has kept her fans engaged with dazzling roles in movies such as After the Hunt, Leave the World Behind, Ticket to Paradise, and Wonder.

As for Pretty Woman, the movie hit its 35th anniversary in 2025.

British TV legend David Attenborough turned 100 years old on May 8, 2026, and celebrities worldwide took to social media to celebrate the most famous voice in nature documentaries' milestone moment.

Related: Sir David Attenborough’s 100th Birthday: How Britain’s Celebrating Its Most Famous Voice

Beyond online tributes from huge names like the British royal family, Leonardo DiCaprio, David Beckham, and Richard Branson, the BBC also immortalized Attenborough with some new programming, including a documentary called Making Life on Earth: Attenborough’s Greatest Adventure, a series titled Secret Garden, and a live event called David Attenborough’s 100 Years on Planet Earth.

“It’s impossible to overstate what Sir David Attenborough has given us,” said BBC exec Jack Bootle leading up to the big day. “His programmes have not only defined science and natural history broadcasting, but they have also changed how we see our planet and our place within it.”

Check out all of the most touching tributes from the Planet Earth star's famous friends:

Leonardo DiCaprio honors Attenborough

DiCaprio took to Instagram with a heartfelt message for Attenborough, writing, "Happy 100th birthday to Sir David Attenborough — a storyteller, naturalist, and one of the most enduring champions of our shared planet."

"For as long as I can remember, Sir David has opened windows into the natural world, bringing moments of wonder, beauty, and discovery into homes across the globe and inspiring generations to fall in love with life on Earth," he added. "At 100 years old, his legacy is extraordinary. He has reshaped global awareness of conservation and reminded us, time and again, that protecting nature is not optional — it is fundamental to our future... Thank you, Sir David, for a lifetime dedicated to protecting our planet."

David Beckham's tribute to Attenborough David Attenborough and David Beckham

Getty

Football legend Beckham shared a touching but simple tribute of his own on Instagram, writing, "Happy 100th Birthday to our National Treasure, with a red heart emoji. One loving fan corrected, "*International treasure" in the comments.

Richard Branson sends love to Attenborough

Branson sent a sweet birthday message to Attenborough on his Instagram page as well.

"Happy 100th birthday to Sir David Attenborough, an incredible, passionate naturalist who has brought the natural world into people's living rooms and changed the world for the better," he wrote beside a photo of them together. "He's an inspiration to us all."

Jo Frost's birthday message for Attenborough

Supernanny reality star Jo Frost shared an emotional message for Attenborough on his big day on social media.

"I grew up watching David Attenborough with my family and years later, STILL watching his documentaries with my grandson," she shared. "That’s the power of this man’s work, it has connected generations through wonder, curiosity, education and a love for the natural world."

"In a world that can sometimes feel loud, disconnected and uncertain, he has always been a force of good," she added, describing him as, "Gentle, wise, humble and deeply respectful of life in all its forms."

"Everything that is good about humanity shines through his work," she concluded. "We thank you. Happy 100th Birthday, Sir David Attenborough."

The Royal Family honors Sir David David Attenborough with Prince Harry, Prince William, and King Charles

Getty

The royal family shared a slew of photos with Attenborough through the years, including one of King Charles as a child smiling as the naturalist shows him a bird. "Wishing Sir David Attenborough a very happy 100th birthday. Enjoy your special celebration this evening!" they wrote, adding, "Tune in to ‘David Attenborough's 100 Years on Planet Earth’ at 8.30pm on BBC One and @bbciplayer." The evening will include many surprise guests, potentially including the royals themselves.

Throughout her career, Sally Field has played several iconic roles on the big and small screens. Decades since she debuted as an actor, Field reveals there's one type of role that she won't jump at the opportunity to play.

In an interview with People, Field looked back at her career and getting her start as Gidget in 1965 and playing a nun in one of her most recognizable sitcoms,The Flying Nun. She later starred in 1976’s Stay Hungry, followed by 1977’s Smokey and the Bandit with Burt Reynolds. It wasn't until 1979 that Field had her big Hollywood break with her Oscar-winning role in Norma Rae.

The actor decided her career would be based on emotionally driven roles. When it comes to the type of on-screen characters she will play and storylines, she admits, "I never take to stories about women that are trying to find a man."

“I didn’t like it then, and it doesn’t appeal to me now, because I think women are about so much more. Life is so much more complicated than that," she explained.

Related: Jamie-Lynn Sigler Reveals Truth Behind 2009 Split from ‘Entourage’ Star: ‘He Deserved More’

Looking at her filmography, there are a few outliers to the rule, like her 2015 role in Hello, My Name Is Doris. The coming-of-age romantic comedy stars Fields in the leading role as Doris Miller, a 60-something recluse who works in the city doing data entry. Doris's life was spent taking care of her mother before her death, and she's blind to social trends. When she meets a new, cute coworker, she becomes infatuated and decides to try to date him.

The film did well against tis $1 million budget, but it isn't the highlight of Field's stellar career. She won her second Oscar in 1984 for the film Places in the Heart, an American drama film set in Texas during the Great Depression. She would later be nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her standout role as First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln in the 2012 film Lincoln. Field has also won three Emmy Awards, two Golden Globes, a Tony, and a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Field admits that her complicated childhood with her abusive stepfather pushed her to be "filled with rage." With the help of an acting coach, she channeled that rage into her acting, which has developed into a successful career.

If you’re anything like me, you have an affinity for tasty treats that's just a little too hard to ignore. And while every trip to Trader Joe’s feels like a test of my willpower and a direct threat to my idea of moderation, I still manage to walk away with at least a couple of sweet snacks in my tote.

This week’s indulgence? A surprisingly out-of-season favorite you’d normally expect to see during the fall and winter months. If I’ve learned anything from years of shopping at Trader Joe’s, it’s that you don’t ask questions when an unexpected surprise lands in your lap.

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Here only for a limited time and perfect for anyone who loves a wholesome, sweet, nostalgic snack, the Trader Joe’s Teeny Tiny Apple Pies might just be your new obsession. And considering they may not be around for much longer, I figured why not grab a box and see if they still live up to my memory of the first time I tried them.

Teeny Tiny Apple Pies, $5.49 at Trader Joe's Teeny Tiny Apple Pies

Nathan Hutsenpiller

A true American staple that will never lose its charm, a good apple pie is simply not worth passing up. Warm, gooey, sweet, buttery and flaky are just a few of the words that describe an apple pie’s wealth of textures and flavors, and they're elements that these Trader Joe’s Teeny Tiny Apple Pies manage to capture effortlessly.

Sold in a 7.76-ounce, 4-count box for $5.49, this iconic Trader Joe’s creation is made in Canada using sweet-tart Northern Spy apples to create a cinnamon-spiced diced apple filling. Nestled in a flaky, buttery crust, these plump little pies are topped with a brown sugar crumble and baked until golden brown. From there, the finished pies are packed four to a box, each measuring roughly 3 inches in diameter and oozing with rich apple filling.

How to Eat the Trader Joe's Teeny Tiny Apple Pies Assortment of teeny tiny apple pies

Nathan Hutsenpiller

Designed to be eaten right out of the box with no fork or pie server required, these crumbly baked treats are basically apple pie cookies when you think about it. And while I have no qualms digging in immediately after opening the box, there’s something to be said about warming one up in the microwave or air fryer and enjoying it alongside a cup of coffee in the morning.

If you really want to up your presentation points, however, Trader Joe’s suggests going “full à la mode” by gilding one with a scoop of French vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce. That said, I wouldn’t mind taking things a step further with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.

Related: Trader Joe's Luxurious $6 Freezer Find Is a Delicate Fusion of Buttery French Flatbread Flavors

Final Thoughts Bite take from teeny tiny apple pie

Nathan Hutsenpiller

In the never-ending quest to satisfy my sweet tooth, it’s nice to know a familiar favorite hasn’t lost its spark. While these Trader Joe’s Teeny Tiny Apple Pies unfortunately aren’t a year-round offering, I can confirm their texture and flavor have stood the test of time. The popular seasonal snack may only be a few years old, but it already feels destined to become a staple on everyone’s shopping list.

Do yourself a favor and snag a box while they’re still on shelves, and if you’re looking for even more baked goods inspiration, be sure to check out our list of the 12 best baked goods to buy at Trader Joe’s.

Related: 24 Best Trader Joe's Frozen Food Under $5

Since the start of cinema, movie fans haven't had a shortage of incredible fantasy films. This seems especially true within the last few years.

Collider recently published a ranking of the "10 greatest fantasy movie masterpieces of the last 15 years." The list, released in March 2026, featured hit fantasy films like Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves from 2023, The Boy and the Heron, also released in 2023, 2011's Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2, and 2017's The Shape of Water.

The Green Knight, from 2021, was named as the top masterpiece from the fantasy genre since 2011. Collider noted that the film, which stars Dev Patel as Sir Gawain, is inspired by the long-beloved 1300s poem Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. According to the publication, the film, which has a score of 89 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, is full of spectacle and offers a compelling character arc.

Dev Patel Shared He Was Drawn to the Film's Script Upon Reading It

In a 2021 interview with Rotten Tomatoes, Patel revealed that he wanted to star in The Green Knight upon reading its script, by David Lowery, who also directed the film.

"I was handed David's script, and I was utterly enthralled. It put me in a spell for weeks after that. And I kind of became obsessed with it. The imagery was ingrained in my brain," said Patel in the 2021 interview.

Patel also said that while he enjoyed working on the film, it was quite exhausting to play Sir Gawain.

"It was a really physically kind of taxing shoot, in the sense that I was in it, and there were long shoot days and short turnovers. And it was cold and damp," said the actor.

Patel clarified that Lowery made sure that the set was "always positive" with his kind, supportive demeanor.

"So as dark or gloomy as the days got, he was this kind of constant source of energy and light," said the Lion star during the Rotten Tomatoes interview. "But we went through some extreme lengths to achieve some of this imagery."

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If you're looking for a last-minute Mother's Day present or feel like you just need one more small thing to add to your mom's Mother's Day gift basket, Target has you covered for any and all of the above with this darling new stoneware mug that will make every mom feel seen.

Target's Room Essentials' Chaos Coordinator Tall Can Mug is the perfect Mother's Day gift. Boasting a 14-ounce capacity, this mug is plenty big enough for your mom to fill (and refill) her coffee or tea as needed throughout her busy day. It's constructed out of sturdy stoneware and is microwave- and dishwasher-safe. Plus, it's great for both hot and cold beverages.

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Room Essentials Chaos Coordinator Tall Can Mug, $5 at Target

Target

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The best part of this mug has to be its cutesy dark blue "chaos coordinator" label on the front. And, honestly, what is a better way to describe a mom? After all, she's the glue of the family, always keeping everyone (and everything) in order, no matter how crazy life gets.

Related: Target's Fun $5 Mini Coolers Are Perfect for Day Trips

Shoppers are loving this mug, giving it an average rating of 4.8 stars on Target.com, with 100 percent of reviewers saying they would recommend it to others.

"Mug with perfect description of my mom!" said one fan in a five-star review on Target.com. "This mug was purchased as a gift for my always busy mom! It's tall so she can fill it with plenty of java to keep her going through her days with four kids. The larger size nice, but it can be be a little heavy. It's microwave-safe, even though she always uses it for iced coffee! It's ok for top rack dishwasher clean up."

"Okay, I love this mug! I'm a mom and elementary school counselor so I am often coordinating chaos so this mug makes me laugh. I really like the blue and white colors, the font of the text, and the miscellaneous shapes decorating the mug. It's a nice tall size to hold my much needed coffee. I love drinking out of it!" said another Target shopper in a five-star review on Target.com.

You can snag this mug at select Target stores by Mother's Day this Sunday. You can also order it online. It retails for just $5.

Related: Target's Latest 7-Piece Kitchen Find Is Equal Parts Functional and Beautiful

You know those travel bucket lists that always feature the same overrated destinations? Well, CNN just ranked Lake Superiorone of America's most underrated destinations—and honestly, it deserves way more attention. Lake Superior stretches across northern Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota as a vast expanse of water, trees, islands, and wildlife that rivals anything out west.

But here's the thing most people miss: this isn't just any lake. Lake Superior is the largest, cleanest, and wildest of all the Great Lakes, and the biggest lake in the world by surface area, earning it the nickname "The Freshwater Sea". So yes, tropical beaches and Caribbean islands are nice. But Lake Superior offers white sandy beaches, sand dunes, dense forests, ancient shipwrecks, and roaring waterfalls along crystal waters, no passport required.

Related: This Under‑the‑Radar Southern City Was Just Named a Top Travel Destination for Its Horse Farms, Bourbon Tours, and Rising Food Scene

More Than Just a Pretty View

What makes Lake Superior truly special goes beyond its lovely scenery. The water is extremely clear, with an average underwater visibility of 27 feet, indicating it is very clean, making beaches safe for swimming for most of the year. Another astounding fact: it holds approximately 10% of the entire world’s surface freshwater.

The real crown jewel, though? The Apostle Islands, known as the "crown jewels of Lake Superior," feature a pristine 12-mile stretch of mainland and 21 gorgeous islands with sea caves, lighthouses, and more. Devils Island has the best sea caves in the Apostles, with magnificent rock formations and intricate caves along its northern shore. You can kayak through these caves in the summer, or for the real adventure seeker, hike to frozen ice caves in winter.

And if shipwrecks intrigue you, you're in for a treat. Approximately 550 shipwrecks are thought to be in Lake Superior, with 350 identified, but many are still undiscovered, lending the lake its other nickname, “Graveyard of the Great Lakes”. Some 200 wrecks are known to rest off the Michigan shore on an 80-mile stretch known as Lake Superior's Shipwreck Coast. Kayakers can explore many coves and view shipwrecks in the crystal-clear waters, an excursion not soon to be forgotten.

Fresh Catch Worth the Trip

If you're a foodie, Lake Superior won't disappoint. The region is known for its incredible freshwater seafood—think lake whitefish, walleye, and lake trout caught straight from Superior's crystal clear waters. Local restaurants throughout the Duluth, Bayfield, and Marquette areas serve up the catch of the day prepared simply and deliciously, letting the quality of the fish shine. It's the kind of food experience you go home talking about and pairs perfectly with exploring the region's natural wonders.

Related: This Is the Midwest’s Coolest Weekend Getaway Right Now—and It’s Not Chicago

Why You Should Go Now

The Lake Superior region stretches across northern Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota, with Pictured Rocks and Apostle Islands national lakeshores, Isle Royale National Park with resident wolves and moose, and winter sports slopes. Whether you're a diver, kayaker, hiker, or someone who just wants to escape the typical vacation crowd, Lake Superior delivers.

The best part? Lake Superior has the longest undeveloped coastline of all the Great Lakes, with less than 5% of its shoreline developed. Not only is that largely pristine and untouched, but it’ll be quiet.  That means you won't be fighting crowds everywhere you go and can actually kick back and enjoy the spectacular view. 

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The Flying Nun may have been the role that made Sally Field famous, but the legendary actress has no problem admitting she didn't enjoy playing Sister Bertrille in the beloved 1960s sitcom.

Related: This Feel-Good Musical From 1952 Was Just Named the Greatest Film of All Time

"I hated doing The Flying Nun so much," the 79-year-old told journalist Willie Geist in the preview of his upcoming Sunday Sitdown. The reason why she didn't like working on the ABC hit show? Well, it just wasn't very sexy.

"I was 18, 19 years old. Who wanted to play a nun?" she laughed. "And it was the ‘60s by then! Everybody was, you know, eating granola and dropping out and marching and walking around naked!"

The fan-favorite show aired for three seasons from 1967 to 1970, and while viewers loved it, Field has been open about her distaste for the project, even admitting to Oprah in 2012 that she "didn't want to do it" from the second she heard the concept.

"I was trying to figure out who I was, but I knew who I wasn't: a flying nun," she teased. "I was almost 19, and my sexuality needed to be explored. My real father was Catholic, and I had issues with all religions. So I said no, which I thought was incredibly brave."

However, Field's stepfather, a stuntman who worked in the industry himself, pushed her to take the role after the cancellation of her prior show, Gidget.

Sally Field in 'The Flying Nun' in 1969

Getty

"My stepfather said, 'Don't get on your high horse. If you don't take this part, you may never work again,'" she recalled. Ultimately, the role was a success, but she later said that she only took it because "at the time, I wasn't old enough, strong enough, or sophisticated enough to tell him that he was wrong."

Related: Michael Jackson’s No. 1 Hit of All Time Didn’t Even Make It Into His New Movie

Of course, Field went on to have many more famous roles, including aunt May in Marc Webb's The Amazing Spider-Man films, Carrie in Smokey and the Bandit, Sybil Dorsett in Sybil, M’Lynn Eatenton in Steel Magnolias, Miranda Hillard in Mrs. Doubtfire, and Mrs. Gump in Forrest Gump.

How to Watch The Flying Nun

If you want to watch The Flying Nun yourself, you can stream the whole series on Roku or Tubi for free.

While everyone is busy talking about how the Social Security Administration (SSA) is about to run about of money, experts say that the account holding the funds that millions of Americans rely on each month is fully funded for now.

That means there is plenty of money in there for those looking to start collecting payments. However, many pros warn that it's best to delay applying for benefits until you reach age 70. So, does that mean you're out of luck if you're hoping to start collecting early, or at least looking for a little extra financial help? Not exactly. There are a few other qualifying events that could allow you to tap into your Social Security benefits earlier, or else earn a bigger payday. Find out what they are, and why you may want to try to apply for them this way instead.

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You Can Collect Based on Your Ex-Spouse's Retirement

If you are of retirement age, but your Social Security benefits won't quite pay the bills, you may want to see what you're entitled to thanks to your ex-husband or wife. That's right, Yahoo! Finance says that there are some instances when you can claim spousal benefits thanks to your ex. The only caveat is that you have to have been married for at least a decade, and you must've remained unmarried after the split (it doesn't matter if they remarried, though).

However, you can only collect this spousal benefit if it's more than what you would've earned on your own, if you have reached the age of 62, and if your ex is already claiming their benefits. Contact the SSA to start your application, and they will do the legwork to determine which benefit is larger and whether you qualify.

Related: The Secret To Boosting Your Social Security Check by 30 Percent

You Can Claim on Behalf of Your Children

Minor and disabled children are able to collect funds based on the earnings of their parents once the parent has begun claiming disability or retirement benefits, or if they have died.

There are a few things to keep in mind with this one, though. According to Yahoo! Finance:

• The benefits only continue until the age of 18 (or 19 if they are in full-time college)
• Disabled children can collect these benefits for the duration of their life as long as the disability began prior to the age of 22
• There are circumstances where grandchildren, step-children, adopted children, and more can be eligible

Parents Can Collect Benefits Based on Their Children's Work History

Similar to how certain children can collect benefits based on their parents' earnings, some parents can collect based on their children's earnings. Usually, this only applies to bereaved parents who were dependent on their child for support.

This one also has a few complicated qualifiers in order to be done, including proving that the child was financially responsible for more than half of the parents' care, that the parent isn't entitled to a bigger benefit if they filed on their own work record, and that the child had earned enough money to qualify for Social Security before their death.

Related: Why Your Social Security Benefits Might Be Taxed for the First Time Ever

Many People Are Delaying Retirement Until They Turn 70

People are looking for alternative ways to collect Social Security or boost their benefits because so many experts now advise them to delay their retirement until they reach age 70.

That's because the longer you pay into Social Security, the more money you'll earn in retirement. Not only that, but your benefits increase by 8 percent each year you delay retirement, up until you reach the age of 70.

With the rising cost of living, many people are looking for ways to maximize their benefits anyway they can. These three options may help you do that. Of course, whenever it comes to funding your retirement, it's always best to run any questions by a professional before making any decisions.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.

Heinz remains the go-to sauce for millions of shoppers across the globe for a few key reasons.

Quite possibly the most popular sauce company in the world today, Heinz manages to deliver quality-first flavors through any one of its extensive sauce options.

Whether you're looking for a sauce to dress your cheeseburger, hot dog or fried chicken strips, Heinz's wide selection of delicious products cater to every possible flavor experience you could hope to have during your meal.

Yet even then, the iconic company just found a way to give shoppers even more variety than ever before.

According to multiple food bloggers across social media, Heinz is officially rolling out six new never-before-seen sauces that are sure to please anyone looking for the perfect condiment for their backyard barbecue this summer season.

As per bloggers' post on Instagram, the new sauces from Heinz specifically include the following flavors:

• Buttermilk Ranch Mayonnaise Style Dip
• Lemon Pepper Parm Mayonnaise Style Dip 
• Steakhouse Garlic Mayonnaise Style Dip
• Greek-Inspired Garlic Herb
• Japanese-Inspired Ginger Sesame
• Hawaiian-Inspired Tropical Teriyaki

In addition to these six sauces, Heinz will also be rolling out its returning Heinz Mexican-Inspired Street Corn this season as well. Originally introduced last year, the returning sauce features the same zesty, tangy flavors associated with traditional Mexican Street Corn (albeit without all those annoying kernels getting stuck in your teeth).

As expected, the news of the six new sauces from Heinz has already met with an altogether positive response from shoppers, many of whom were quick to voice their enthusiasms for the upcoming products.

"I want them all," one fan commented on Instagram.

"Gimme them all," agreed another, similarly excited shopper.

As of yet, it's not clear whether these flavors are permanent additions to Heinz's lineup, or seasonal offerings that will only be around for a few months. Either way, it's advisable to get these new flavors sooner rather than later!

Vivian Tu, whose online persona is YourRichBFF, is somewhat of a financial genius and the Chief of Financial Empowerment at SoFi at the young age of 32. Her simple math problem can have you maximizing your investment portfolio at any age to grow and protect your funds.

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Tu has been doling out financial advice online to her 3.8 million followers since 2021, offering insight on investments, mortgages, inheritance, and more to help Americans make their money work for them. Her popular online videos complement the advice on her website with little digestible nuggets of financial information anyone can understand.

A Healthy Balance

In a recent video, Tu recommends reassessing your investment portfolio every 5 years to align with where you are in your financial journey. Her latest easy math problem gives you a quick layout for the balance you should strike between growth investments (equities) and protection investments (bonds). 

Equities are riskier but meant to help grow your nest egg, while bonds don’t yield as much of a return but protect the money you’ve already made. Her math problem states that your age should determine the percentage of your portfolio to allocate to protection investments.

Related: This 'Lazy' Habit Can Add a 20% Bonus to Your Retirement

One Easy Math Problem

According to Tu, you should take your age, subtract ten, and round up or down to the nearest number divisible by five. So if you’re 67, it should look like this:

67 - 10 = 57

The closest number divisible by 5 to 57 is 55

Therefore 55% of your portfolio should be in protection investments 

Tu notes that the younger you are, the larger percentage of your portfolio should be in growth funds because you have more time to recover in case of a market crash. Retirees or anyone close to retirement would benefit more from bonds and fixed income products to protect the money they’ve already made. 

Related: Redditor Asks What People's Most Life-Changing Money Decisions Were and Retirees Could Learn a Lot

She Knows Money

Tu became a millionaire at 27 after working as a trader at J.P. Morgan and making smart financial moves. She’s a podcaster and author. Her podcast, Networth and Chill, which has done live tapings at South by Southwest (SXSW), discusses common financial topics with guests. Her book, Well Endowed, is geared toward building generational wealth.

If you haven’t reevaluated your portfolio in the past five years, now is the perfect time. With Tu’s simple math problem, you can adjust your investments so your money is working the hardest to set you up for long-term comfort.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.

In the spring of 1976, one of America’s biggest hit songs came from an unlikely place: a television sitcom.

On May 8, 1976, John Sebastian’s song “Welcome Back,” the theme song for ABC’s hit comedy Welcome Back, Kotter, reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming one of the most memorable TV themes of the decade. It also topped the Hot Adult Contemporary Tracks chart and reached No. 93 on the Hot Country Singles chart.

The warm, nostalgic song was written and recorded by Sebastian, the former frontman of the Lovin’ Spoonful, after producers asked him to create the theme for a new sitcom originally titled Kotter. According to the History Channel, Sebastian initially struggled to write lyrics around the title before shifting toward a broader theme about returning to a familiar place and rediscovering purpose.

The song ultimately became so closely tied to the series that producers changed the show’s title to Welcome Back, Kotter.

The sitcom starred comedian Gabe Kaplan as wisecracking Brooklyn teacher Gabe Kotter, who returns to his former high school to teach a remedial class of troublemakers known as the Sweathogs. The cast included a young John Travolta in his breakout role as Vinnie Barbarino alongside Ron Palillo, Robert Hegyes and Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs.

Unlike many television themes of the era, “Welcome Back” quickly developed a life beyond the series itself. According to Fred Bronson’s "The Billboard Book of Number One Hits," Warner Bros. Records released the song as a single after public demand surged following the sitcom’s debut. Sebastian even wrote an additional verse for the full-length version because the original TV theme ran less than a minute.

Sebastian later admitted he was caught completely off guard by the song’s success. In an interview with Classic Bands, he recalled feeling “wildly out of style” by the mid-1970s after years of struggling to establish himself as a solo artist following his time with the Lovin’ Spoonful. But according to Sebastian, “Welcome Back” became what he called an “audience driven single,” fueled by viewers walking into record stores specifically asking for the Welcome Back, Kotter theme song by name.

While Sebastian’s gentle, wistful theme song gave the series an almost sentimental tone, the show itself became known for rapid-fire jokes, colorful catchphrases and the chaotic antics of the Sweathogs. Catchphrases like Barbarino’s “What? What?” and Horshack’s famous raised-hand “Oooh! Oooh! Oooh!” quickly became part of 1970s pop culture.

The success of Welcome Back, Kotter also sparked an enormous merchandising boom. The series inspired comic books, trading cards, dolls, lunchboxes and even a board game built around the show’s famous “Up your nose with a rubber hose” catchphrase.

“Welcome Back” remains one of the few television theme songs ever to become a genuine chart-topping pop hit. The song’s success came during a brief era when TV themes regularly crossed over into mainstream radio, alongside hits like “Theme From S.W.A.T.” and “The Rockford Files.”

Fifty years later, both the song and the sitcom still hold a special place in television nostalgia, helping define the quirky pop-culture spirit of the bicentennial era.

Fifty-one years ago, iconic '70s soft rocker Olivia Newton-John topped the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart with her heartbreaking cover of "Please Mr. Please."

Released in 1975 as the second single from her fifth studio album, Have You Never Been Mellow, "Please Mr. Please" was an massive success. Within the first few months of release, the track climbed up the Billboard charts, peaking at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, No. 5 on the Country Singles chart and at No. 1 on the Adult Contemporary chart for three consecutive weeks. "Please Mr. Please" marked Newton-John's fifth consecutive top-10 hit, further establishing her as an undeniable figure in the music industry.

Aside from its chart achievements, "Please Mr. Please" also experienced a significant amount of commercial success. In September 1975, the hit was certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for selling over 1 million copies in the U.S. alone.

John Travolta, Olivia Newton-John and Jeff Conaway on the set of the film 'Grease', directed by Randal Kleiser, in 1978.

Sunset Boulevard/Corbis via Getty Images

Produced by John Farrar via EMI label, Newton-John's "Please Mr. Please" wasn't actually the original version of the song. In 1974, the track was recorded by its co-writer Bruce Welch but failed to take off commercially. Newton-John's rendition reimagined the song, creating a more polished, radio-friendly version that resonated with wider-ranging audiences.

"Please Mr. Please" is a quintessential country-pop and soft-rock crossover song. The track is recognizable for its seamless blend of classic country elements, like acoustic instrumentation, and soft rock components, like driving rhythm and soft vocals, to masterfully combine genres.

Written by Welch and John Rostill—both members of the '60s rock band The Shadows—"Please Mr. Please" explores themes of emotional turmoil after a breakup. The lyrics tell the story of a heartbroken bar patron who is haunted by the memory of her old partner when a song plays on the jukebox that reminds her of him. The track's poignant lyricism and melancholic sound made it the perfect mix for a breakup anthem that would persevere for decades to come.

To this day, the cover is still pulling at listeners' heartstrings. On Spotify alone, the track has accumulated over 8.4 million streams, affirming its ability to touch newer generations of listeners in the streaming era.

Related: 1974 Soft Rock Classic, Originally Rejected by ’70s Legend, Became a No. 1 Hit