Parade

The second spinoff of The Rookie, titled The Rookie: North, which filmed its pilot in Vancouver, has been picked up to series by ABC. It stars Jay Ellis and Chris Sullivan.

The story is more similar to the original series than the first spinoff, Rookie: Feds, which starred Niecy Nash and only lasted one season. It was a step out of policing because rather than a cop, Nash’s Simone Clark was a rookie for the FBI. The new role of Alex Holland will be a member of a small-town police force.

“It’s a patrol show like Rookie, but it’s set in a very different world, which is the Pacific Northwest,” series creator Alexi Hawley told Parade. “Not just a big city cop show but more of a little bit of urban, little bit of rural, and little bit of meth labs in the woods, so it’ll be fun.”

Here’s everything we know about The Rookie North, including the cast.

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What is The Rookie North release date?

The Rookie North has been picked up for the 2026-2027 ABC broadcast season. No release date has been revealed as yet, but it is most likely that it will be held for midseason, as The Rookie is.

What is The Rookie North about?

The official description for the spinoff reads: “Alex Holland believed his mid-life wasn’t worthy of a crisis. But after a violent home invasion ignites a dormant purpose, Alex battles a lifetime of failed commitments by joining the Pierce County Police Department as its oldest rookie. Policing from the urban coast to the rural forest where backup isn’t just 5-minutes away, Alex must prove to his skeptical training officer, his fellow rookies, and himself, that he’s finally found something worthy of the fight.”

“I feel like the [basis to] our universe is re-invention in general, but specifically people making a choice to do something else with their life,” Hawley said.

Related: The Latest Update on The Rookie: North Spinoff (Exclusive)

Who is in the cast of The Rookie North? Jay Ellis as Alex Holland Jay Ellis

Photo by Jason Mendez/WireImage

Holland is the lead character and a middle-aged man who becomes the oldest rookie at the Pierce County Police Department. Alex believed his mid-life wasn’t worthy of a crisis until a violent home invasion ignites a dormant purpose.

Ellis posted: “Yes, I’m the newest officer. No, I still don’t know where my locker is. And also does anyone know where I can get bulk ice for my soon-to-be daily ice bath for my knees and back?”

View this post on Instagram Chris Sullivan as Sergeant Nix Chris Sullivan

Photo by Theo Wargo/WireImage

Per Deadline, Sullivan will play Sergeant Nix, who lands a big promotion to watch commander in the Pierce County Police Department in Washington. However, Nix struggles in the new job as his passion and heart remain on patrol and on the streets.

Related: This Is Us Fan Favorite Joins The Rookie Spin-Off

Janet Montgomery as Charlotte Dru Janet Montgomery

Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images

Per Deadline, Charlotte is Alex’s training officer. A former MP-turned-Pierce County Police Officer, Charlotte is precise, disciplined, and calm under pressure with a subversive sense of humor.

Mya Lowe as Elora Howe Mya Lowe

Photo by Steve Granitz/FilmMagic

Elora is a new rookie chasing a recently discovered purpose, like an oasis in the desert, hoping desperately that it’s not a mirage.

Malik Watson as Mark Lewis

Malik is Elora’s training officer. Mark is a cowboy, all sharp edges, but he’s the backup every cop hopes shows up when they’re in danger.

Froy Gutierrez as Odell Chance Froy Gutierrez

Photo by Frazer Harrison/WireImage

Froy is also a new rookie. Cool, athletic and confident, things have always come easy to him. He aced everything he’s tried in life, including the police academy. But he’s never been truly tested.

Karen Fukuhara as Leah Mizuno Karen Fukuhara

Photo by Paul Archuleta/Getty Images

Leah is Odell’s training officer. Leah comes from the high expectations of over achievers, where becoming a cop did not go over well. But unlike most youthful acts of rebellion, Leah loves what she does.

Curtis Lum as Officer Charley Furst Curtis Lum

Photo by Paul Archuleta/Getty Images

Lum will recur as Officer Charley Furst, a cheerful and relaxed officer who has a reputation for always finding the path of least resistance when it comes to the job, according to Deadline.

Related: The Rookie Season 9 Could Look Very Different With This Cast Exit

Is there a trailer for The Rookie North?

Since filming is just beginning in February, the answer is not yet but there is this Instagram post.

View this post on Instagram How many episodes are in Season 1 of The Rookie North?

Rumor is that its 10 episodes, but again, it’s too soon to know for certain.

How to watch The Rookie North

The Rookie North will air on ABC and stream on Hulu the next day.

Next, ABC Announces Historic Fall 2026-2027 Schedule, Including The Rookie: North Spinoff

Gut health is the gift the internet keeps on giving. Attention to it peaked in the 2010s and never faded. But what does “gut health” even mean?

“Gut health refers to how well the digestive system performs its many jobs, including digesting and absorbing nutrients, moving food through the intestines, maintaining a protective intestinal barrier and supporting a functioning community of gut microorganisms,” explains Johannah Katz, RD, a registered dietitian.

When you have “good gut health,” Katz says you’ll generally have comfortable digestion and reasonably regular poops. You won’t experience frequent pain, severe bloating, constipation or diarrhea. But achieving a healthy digestive system is a bit of a personalized endeavor.

“There is no single ‘perfect’ gut microbiome because microbiomes vary considerably among healthy people,” she explains.

So, while your feed is likely full of foods and supplements that reportedly support your digestive system, Katz notes that diet is not one-size-fits-all. Plus, in a world of supplements, understanding the effects of whole foods like bananas on your gut health is vital.

“What we eat can influence bowel regularity, digestive symptoms, the intestinal barrier and the activity of the microorganisms living in the gut,” she says. “Understanding these effects can help people identify foods that support comfortable digestion while recognizing that the same food may affect two people differently.”

With that in mind, you may wonder, “Do bananas belong in my gut-friendly diet?” It’s not too black-and-white (or green-and-yellow).

“One person may find bananas helpful for regularity, while someone with a sensitive digestive system may experience gas or bloating,” Katz says.

Katz and two other registered dietitians shared exactly what happens to your gut health when you eat bananas, and why it varies from person to person. Scroll on to learn whether you should go bananas with bananas for gut health.

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Are Bananas Good for Gut Health?

Three registered dietitians agree that bananas are a great addition to a gut-healthy diet for many people. But you’ll notice the most benefits if you eat bananas daily (or many times weekly) for several months or years.

“Dietary changes can alter the gut microbiome within days, although long-term eating patterns are more important than any single meal or food,” Katz explains.

Still, your digestive system may give you some near instant gratification after just one banana. Within hours of eating a banana, you may notice less heartburn. “Eating bananas
aids in mucus production, which can protect your stomach lining,” says Julia Zumpano, RD, a registered dietitian with Cleveland Clinic.

Also, you may quickly notice that your poop problems (constipation or loose stools) start to improve, but it depends on the ripeness.

“When unripe, resistant starch in bananas helps bind stools and slows their movement through the digestive tract,” says Malina Malkani, MS, RDN, CDN, LDN, a nutrition expert and the owner of Malina Malkani Nutrition and the author of Safe and Simple Food Allergy Prevention.

This benefit can make unripe bananas useful for diarrhea. On the other hand, Malkani explains that the soluble fiber in ripe bananas absorbs water, softening stools so they can move through the intestines, potentially soothing constipation.

Both unripe and ripe bananas contain a type of prebiotic fiber called pectin (green/unripe bananas have more). Your body actually cannot digest prebiotic fiber, so she says it fuels friendly bacteria in the gut and can promote feelings of fullness, so you may experience fewer cravings (in a day or a couple of weeks of consistently eating bananas) and weight loss or maintenance (over several weeks or more).

Related: ‘I’m a Gastroenterologist—This Is the First Thing I Ask When a Patient Tells Me They Have Bloating’

Over time, you may also notice you get sicker less often and your risk for chronic illness, including some cancers, can go down. You can thank the gut-friendly bacteria.

“When the resistant starch [in unripe bananas] reaches the large intestine, it is fermented by friendly bacteria to produce butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid that promotes gut health… such as helping to protect against disease,” Malkani says.

One of the diseases bananas may help protect against is diabetes, and they may even help improve IBD if you have it.

“Both the resistant starch and the pectin in green bananas support better blood sugar control, which in turn helps reduce inflammation,” she explains. “When it comes to treating and improving digestive conditions like Inflammatory Bowel Disease, lowering inflammation is key.”

If you do have IBD, unripe bananas are generally better tolerated. “When unripe, green bananas are considered a low-FODMAP food that can help diversify low-FODMAP diets,” Malkani explains. “As bananas ripen, the resistant starch is converted to FODMAP sugars.”

Generally, to see most of the above benefits, Zumpano says it’s sufficient to eat one banana per day.

Related: Here’s Exactly What Happens to Your Liver When You Eat Bananas

Why Do Some Doctors Say Not To Eat Bananas?

People with conditions like late-stage kidney disease or diabetes will want to be mindful of how many, if any, bananas they eat. That being said, Malkani tells Parade that eating a banana per day is safe for most people, but you’ll want to ensure your diet is balanced.

“However, diet diversity is a cornerstone of gut health,” she explains. “Friendly bacteria in the gut need a wide variety of fibers to thrive, and eating the same foods every day, (even generally health-promoting foods like bananas) can sometimes come at the expense of nutritional variety.”

Also, not everyone’s guts will enjoy the bananas.

“The fermentable carbohydrates and resistant starch in bananas may cause gas, bloating or abdominal discomfort in some people, particularly when several bananas or concentrated green-banana products are introduced quickly,” Katz explains.

Plus, research suggests people’s responses to the resistant starch in bananas can vary depending on how much they eat and their existing microbiome. However, you may be able to enjoy a banana at a different level of ripeness.

“When choosing bananas to consume, match the level of ripeness to your own digestive needs,” Malkani suggests. “If backed up, select bananas that are more ripe. If you are experiencing looser stools, head for the unripe, green bananas.”

Related: Here’s Exactly What Happens to Your Gut When You Eat Greek Yogurt Every Day

Expert-Backed Ways To Enjoy Bananas

Since bananas are best consumed as part of a healthy overall diet, we asked registered dietitians to dish their personal favorite ways to enjoy bananas. Here are three ideas they love:

• Banana with natural peanut butter. Zumpano is a big fan of this one. “I love the combo of sweet and salty, healthy fat with complex carb,” she raves. “It’s great for blood sugar control and an energy boost. It’s also a great source of potassium.”
• Greek yogurt with banana, chia seeds and walnuts. Katz is a fan of the protein in Greek yogurt, which also often contains gut-friendly live cultures. “The banana and chia seeds provide different types of fiber, while walnuts add unsaturated fats and texture,” she says.
• A smoothie with frozen banana, kefir, berries and spinach. Frozen banana adds sweetness and a creamy texture to a blend of protein and kefir with live cultures. “Berries and spinach add more fiber and plant compounds, making the smoothie more nutritionally diverse than one made only with banana and protein powder,” Katz reports.

BRB, going bananas with these recipes!

Up Next:

Related: You May Want To Stop Pairing This Popular Food With Your Morning Coffee, Dietitians Warn

Sources:

• Johannah Katz, RD, a registered dietitian
• Malina Malkani, MS, RDN, CDN, LDN, a nutrition expert and the owner of Malina Malkani Nutrition and the author of Safe and Simple Food Allergy Prevention
• Julia Zumpano, RD, a Cleveland Clinic registered dietitian
• What defines a healthy gut microbiome? BMJ Open Access.
• Dietary fiber, starch, and sugars in bananas at different stages of ripeness in the retail market. PLoS One.
• Potential of Pectins to Beneficially Modulate the Gut Microbiota Depends on Their Structural Properties. Frontiers in Microbiology.
• Resistant Starch: Promise for Improving Human Health. Advances in Nutrition.
• Baseline intestinal microbiota composition influences response to a real-world dietary fiber intervention. Nature.
• Effect of nutrient composition in a mixed meal on the postprandial glycemic response in healthy people. Nutrition Research and Practice.
• Don’t go bananas – but maybe eat one. American Heart Association.

Before you toss those alfalfa sprouts on your next salad, you might want to double-check where they came from.

Minnesota consumers are being warned to avoid certain alfalfa sprouts after two dangerous bacteria were linked to the same outbreak, according to a report from U.S. News. Wisconsin investigators have also identified 18 additional cases tied to the same sprouts, the outlet reported.

What Makes This E. Coli and Salmonella Outbreak Unusual?

Outbreaks like this typically involve a single pathogen, which is what makes this one stand out. “It’s very unusual to have two bugs,” Bill Marler, a Seattle lawyer who has spent decades working on food safety cases, told ABC News.

He added that alfalfa sprouts are a common culprit in outbreaks like this one, since the seeds are difficult to clean and easily harbor contaminants, especially when grown in warm water.

How Many People Have Gotten Sick?

Minnesota officials say 23 people have fallen ill so far, two of whom were hospitalized, per ABC News. Three cases involved salmonella, with one of those patients also testing positive for a strain of E. coli known as STEC O168:H8. Seven more people were sickened by a different E. coli strain, STEC O103:H25, while 13 others contracted a third strain, STEC O26:H11.

What Brands of Alfalfa Sprouts Are Involved?

The illnesses have been traced back to alfalfa sprouts grown by Everything Sprouts, a Minnesota-based producer, and sold under both the Calco and Everything Sprouts brand names to restaurants and grocery stores, according to CBS News. Minnesota is now working alongside Wisconsin and federal health officials to determine the full source and scope of the contamination.

What Are the Symptoms to Watch For?

According to the CDC, Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, or STEC, can cause stomach cramps and bloody diarrhea, and in severe cases, it can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome. This condition can trigger acute kidney failure. Salmonella infections typically bring diarrhea, fever, vomiting, dehydration, and stomach cramps.

In 1986, a rock-rap fusion song hit the airwaves and immediately made, well, waves. The powerful hit, Run-D.M.C.‘s “Walk This Way,” was a cover of Aerosmith‘s song of the same name, which was written by Steven Tyler and Joe Perry and first released in 1975 on the band’s album Toys in the Attic (peaking at No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100).

Recorded on March 9, 1986, by trailblazing rap/hip-hop legends Run-D.M.C., the band couldn’t have known at the time that acting as a featured artist on a cover of their own song in a completely different (and new at the time, at that) genre would actually revive their career, but that’s exactly what happened. Thanks to the hit, Aerosmith experienced a fresh wave of hype after somewhat taking a backseat to a newer generation of rockers and steadily declining sales since their ’70s heyday.

In fact, at the time, Aerosmith reportedly didn’t even know what “rap” was, according to The Guardian. The band’s then-manager Tim Collins was confused at the request to remake the single when he received a call from 22-year-old producer and entrepreneur behind the now-legendary record label Def Jam, Rick Rubin.

But Rubin had sold Aerosmith the idea as “a great crossover opportunity for both groups,” per the news outlet, and it paid off for both parties. The intense music video for the track, essentially a screaming match between the two groups, instantly took rap music and Run-D.M.C. into MTV mainstream, serving as a stepping stone to becoming a major part of pop culture history.

Related: 1967 Masterpiece by ‘King of the Electric Guitar’ Jimi Hendrix Ranked One of the ‘Most Important Classic Rock Albums of All Time’

The single broke barriers: it became the first rap single on Billboard’s Top 10, peaking at No. 4; its parent album, Raising Hell, became rap’s first platinum and multi-platinum LP, and Run-D.M.C.—comprising Joseph “Run” Simmons, Darryl “DMC” McDaniels, and Jason “Jam Master Jay” Mizell—became the first rap act on the cover of Rolling Stone.

As for the effect on Aerosmith, the collab made them appeal to a whole new audience. The smash earned them a spot on the contemporary hits radio format for the first time and achieved a different sort of crossover—one that couldn’t have come any other way than by bridging the gap between a trio of hip Black kids reinventing music to fit their lifestyles and a rock band whose time in the limelight seemed to be close to a curtain call. “It also made them a truly global band for the first time: Aerosmith, who had previously meant next to nothing in the UK, were suddenly household names,” The Guardian noted.

Forty years later, the hit remains a timeless party anthem for a diverse set of music lovers. On Spotify, “Walk This Way” by Run-D.M.C. has received nearly 320 million streams, while on YouTube, the video has been viewed over 146 million times.

Next, 1971 No. 1 Hit, Famously Performed on ‘Soul Train,’ Is Still a ‘Masterclass in Storytelling’ 55 Years Later

“Weird Al” Yankovic left the accordion at home.

He brought eight other musicians, and all nine of them wedged in behind NPR’s Tiny Desk for a four-song set that went up Thursday, Aug. 20, on NPR’s site and its YouTube channel. He closed on “The Saga Begins.”

That’s his 1999 retelling of Star Wars: Episode I, sung to the tune of Don McLean’s “American Pie”. Yankovic said he felt “naked” playing it without the band’s usual Star Wars costumes.

McLean gave him rare permission to rework the song. Then, in a 2025 Billboard cover story, he ranked the parody above his own record.

“When I heard his version, I thought it was better than the original,” McLean said.

Not every artist took it that way. Coolio feuded with him over “Amish Paradise” before the two made peace.

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He Played Only Originals in 2010

Yankovic had done this once before, in June 2010, when he focused on originals. Sixteen years went by.

“Apparently we did so great they invited us back 16 years later,” he joked.

The Set Opened on the Jungle Cruise

First up was “Skipper Dan,” a failed actor’s lament about the mind-numbing work of manning the Jungle Cruise. Yankovic crooned it over chunky guitar. The band clapped along.

Next came “eBay,” his rewrite of the Backstreet Boys’ “I Want It That Way.” He spends it running down his online finds: a used pink bathrobe, an ALF alarm clock, William Shatner’s old toupee.

Yankovic admitted the third song was not a fan favorite or even a hit people ask for. He played it anyway. “Now You Know,” the closing credits number from Weird: The Al Yankovic Story, came with multiple fake endings.

Jamie Lee Curtis weighed in. Curtis, who counts Yankovic as a friend, wrote on Threads that the song she and her daughter Ruby love best is “an original composition,” and that she was excited to see it in the set.

She didn’t say which one. The set had two: “Skipper Dan” and “Now You Know.”

For nearly two decades, Travis Barker couldn’t bring himself to step onto a plane.

After surviving a devastating 2008 plane crash that killed four people—including two of his close friends and two pilots—flying became nearly impossible for the Blink-182 drummer. Barker, 50, admitted during a conversation with Anderson Cooper that he “wouldn’t stay at hotels near airports,” hid when he saw planes overhead, and traveled by bus and boat whenever necessary.

But years after the crash, an unexpected conversation would set Barker on a path toward finally confronting his fear.

Speaking with Anderson Cooper on the Thursday, August 20, episode of All There Is, Barker recalled how the massage therapist encouraged him to try breathwork to help with his trauma.

“You should do breathwork because trauma, if it just lives inside your body, it turns into disease, and you need to try to figure it out,” he recalled the therapist saying.

He added, “I really went into it so guarded, sort of like I’m going to do the session, but I’m going to have my guard up the whole time. And 10 minutes into breathwork, I’m balling.”

Barker — who shares son Landon and daughter Alabama with ex Shanna Moakler, as well as son Rocky with wife Kourtney Kardashian — explained that through six sessions he was able to connect with his late mother, and friends Charles Still and Chris Baker, who both died in the plane crash, as well as DJ AM.

AM (real name: Adam Goldstein) was the only other survivor on the plane, but he tragically died less than a year later of a drug overdose.

“I told my wife who, we were in a really new relationship, but I had known my wife for years. We were best friends for a long time, and I said, ‘If there’s ever a place you want to take me and it involves flying, just tell me the night before, and I’m going to try to go,” he shared of his breakthrough.

Barker’s wife, Kourtney Kardashian, told him they would start with a “really small flight.”

“The flight was easier than I ever thought. Like, all these things that I had thought would be the baggage I’d carry with me on that flight didn’t exist. It just felt so good to face my fear and put it to rest,” he told Cooper, adding that he’s been on “close to 50 flights” in the years since.

A well-organized kitchen does not always mean hiding everything away in cabinets. Sometimes, the best pieces are the ones that keep everyday essentials within reach while making your countertops look more styled. A pretty canister can hold your most-consumed snacks or ingredients while adding warmth, color and texture to the room.

Storage is especially helpful when it has a purpose beyond simply containing clutter. A beautiful container can replace bulky packaging for cookies, tea bags, coffee pods, flour or dog treats, making your kitchen feel a little more coordinated without a full pantry makeover. It is one of the easiest ways to make everyday routines look more intentional.

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Hearth & Hand With Magnolia 53-Ounce Green Striped Stoneware Seasonal Canister, $24.99 at Target

Target

Shop It!

Target’s 53-ounce Stoneware Seasonal Canister in Green Striped from Hearth & Hand with Magnolia is a charming option for countertop storage. Priced at $24.99, the medium-to-large canister has a brown stoneware base with green stripes and a reactive glaze finish that gives it an earthy, handcrafted look.

The canister holds up to 53 fluid ounces, making it a useful size for cookies, crackers, snacks, coffee beans, loose tea, baking ingredients, or pet treats. It measures 6.7 inches high by 5.75 inches wide and deep, so it is roomy without taking over the counter.

Related: Sam’s Club’s Beautiful 3-Piece Set of Antique-Looking Iron Pumpkins Is Giving Core ‘Halloweentown’ Vibes

Its stoneware lid features a centered knob and a silicone seal to help keep food fresh and protect it from moisture. That airtight feature makes it more practical than a decorative jar, especially for items you use often and want to keep within easy reach.

The green-striped pattern pairs beautifully with warm wood, brass, cream ceramic, and other earthy kitchen colors. Place it beside a coffee maker with mugs and a small tray, use it as part of a baking station, or style it on open shelving with cookbooks and a cutting board. If you prefer a coordinated look, Target also offers a smaller 30-ounce version for $19.99.

One important note: the canister is hand-wash only. Since it has a reactive glaze finish, subtle variations in color and pattern can occur, making each one feel a little less mass-produced.

At $24.99, this canister is a small kitchen upgrade that can make a visible difference. It is practical enough for everyday use, stylish enough to keep on display, and versatile enough to work long after seasonal decor has changed.

Related: Anthropologie’s 4-Piece Set of Vibrant and Versatile Stoneware Bowls Is Only $20, and It’s Perfect for Just About Anything

Aerosmith founding member Tom Hamilton has shared his sadness following the death of ZZ Top drummer Frank Beard, calling attention to the rare talent the rock legend brought to the stage for more than five decades.

Hamilton, the longtime Aerosmith bassist and a founding member of the iconic 1970s rock band, posted a short but heartfelt message on X after news of Beard’s death became public.

“Sad to hear about Frank Beard’s passing. They’ll have to look far and wide to find somebody who can do what he did.”

Beard died at 77 while in hospice care at his ranch in Richmond, Texas, with his family by his side. His death came after years of health concerns that had already forced him to step away from ZZ Top’s touring schedule.

Drummer Frank Beard of ZZ Top performs onstage during Day 1 of the 2023 Stagecoach Festival on April 28, 2023 in Indio, California.

Photo by Scott Dudelson/Getty Images for Stagecoach

For Hamilton, Beard’s death marks the loss of another major figure from the classic rock era. Both musicians came from bands that helped define American rock and built careers that lasted for decades.

Sad to hear about Frank
Beard’s passing. They’ll have to look far and wide to find somebody who can do what he did.

— Tom Hamilton (@THaerosmith) August 19, 2026

Beard spent more than 50 years with ZZ Top and became one of the most recognizable drummers in rock music. Although he was not a founding member of the group, he joined ZZ Top in 1969 and helped form the classic lineup with guitarist Billy Gibbons and bassist Dusty Hill.

That lineup remained together for more than five decades.

Beard was born June 11, 1949, in Frankston, Texas, and was raised in Irving. Before joining ZZ Top, he played in several groups, including American Blues, the Warlocks, Hustlers and Cellar Dwellers. He also performed with Hill before both musicians became part of ZZ Top.

The band released its debut album, First Album, in 1971. It went on to become one of the most enduring rock groups in American music.

ZZ Top found major success with albums such as Tres Hombres in 1973 and Fandango! in 1975. Songs including “La Grange” and “Tush” helped establish the group’s blues-rock sound.

According to Variety, the band reached an even larger audience in the 1980s with Eliminator. Released in 1983, the album featured major hits such as “Gimme All Your Lovin’,” “Sharp Dressed Man” and “Legs.”

ZZ Top has decided to continue its The Big One! Tour despite Beard’s death. The group canceled upcoming shows in Salt Lake City and Colorado Springs before planning to return to the stage in Austin.

The band is scheduled to perform two shows at ACL Live at the Moody Theater. Austin held a special place for Beard, who considered the city a second home and regarded Austin City Limits as one of his favorite venues.

The group is expected to continue with Gibbons on guitar and vocals, Elwood Francis on bass and Michael Monahan on drums.

Beard had already been absent from much of ZZ Top’s recent touring. He stopped touring in March 2025 because of unspecified health issues. John Douglas initially filled in behind the drum kit, while Monahan later became the group’s substitute drummer.

His health problems also affected the band’s plans shortly before his death. ZZ Top canceled its Hollywood Bowl performance just one week before Beard died.

Beard’s passing also leaves Gibbons as the only surviving member of ZZ Top’s classic lineup. Hill died in July 2021 after decades with the group. Before his death, Hill had asked that Francis take over his bass duties, allowing ZZ Top to continue performing.

Hamilton’s tribute adds another voice from the classic rock community to the growing number of musicians recognizing Beard’s impact.

Related: Beloved Rock Band ZZ Top Announces Tour Update After Frank Beard’s Death

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Even though most of us haven’t exactly received an invitation to her house, here are plenty of reasons to believe Dolly Parton would be a wonderful hostess. Between her famously witty personality, her bakeware line, and her growing homeware collection, she’s given us a pretty good idea of the kind of entertainer she might be: Warm, welcoming, whimsical, and never afraid to put a little personality on the table.

While we wait for our invitation to Dolly’s place to come through, the Dolly Parton Acacia Reversible Cutting Board With Butterfly Print makes a pretty great stand-in. Walmart has it for just $11, and its pretty design can make even a simple spread of cheese, crackers, fruit, or appetizers look a little more special. It’s just as useful for serving biscuits and cornbread at a family brunch as it is for putting out snacks at a party, too.

Dolly Parton Acacia Reversible Cutting Board With Butterfly Print, $11 at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Pretty enough to leave propped against your backsplash between uses, this acacia cutting board turns a kitchen essential into a small piece of countertop decor. Scattered butterflies on the surface are rendered in jewel-toned blues, purples, pinks, and magentas, with larger butterflies accompanied by smaller ones for a more organic, fluttering arrangement. Look closely, and the wings have an almost mosaic or stained-glass quality, built from tiny fragment-like sections of color outlined with darker lines. The intricate patterning gives each wing dimension and makes the butterflies look pieced together from miniature shards of colored glass.

The decorative details are concentrated around the corners, leaving plenty of the natural acacia wood grain visible through the center. A lighter stripe running through the wood adds another organic detail, while Dolly’s signature and a tiny butterfly mark appear subtly near one edge. Flip the board over, and you get an entirely plain wood-grain surface, so you can keep the embellished side facing out when displaying it and use the undecorated reverse when you want a simpler prep surface. 

Shop More Deals

• Dolly Parton Bamboo Reversible Cutting Board With Pink Butterfly Print, $10 at Walmart
• Dolly Parton Plastic 4-Piece Cutting Mat Set, $9 at Walmart
• Dolly Parton 3-Piece Chef Knife Set With Rose Pattern Handles, $9 at Walmart

Beyond the decoration, acacia is a durable hardwood with a smooth surface that’s gentle on knife blades, making this functional enough for everyday slicing and chopping rather than purely decorative use. Its compact footprint is especially handy for quick prep jobs when pulling out an oversized cutting board feels unnecessary, and it can transition straight from prep to presentation for appetizers or snacks. To preserve both the wood and butterfly artwork, it should be hand-washed and dried promptly.

Related: Dolly Parton’s Stainless Steel Travel Mugs are ‘Perfect’ for ‘Coffee in the Morning,’ and Start at $20 on Amazon

There’s always room for Southern hospitality at the table. Shop the Dolly Parton Acacia Reversible Cutting Board With Butterfly Print for $11 at Walmart and give your next snack spread extra charm!

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Years before Joe Walsh wrote some of the most famous guitar riffs in rock history for the Eagles, like “Life in the Fast Lane,” the legendary musician was coming up with catchy tunes as a member of the James Gang…and one of those songs is still among the most popular of his career.

Released in 1970 as the first single from the James Gang’s second album, James Gang Rides Again, “Funk #49” helped to establish Walsh as a major player on the music scene. And as Walsh told Rolling Stone in 2016, it all started with a jam.

“Before we really started writing our own songs in the James Gang we’d play covers, and then in the middle of them we’d go for a jam for four or five minutes,” Walsh explained.

“At some point we had six or seven of those sections, and we didn’t need to cover other people’s songs anymore,” he continued. “We took those jams and wrote words to them, and that was really the first and second James Gang albums.”

“The ‘Funk #49’ jam was one we always happened to crush, so we recorded it for Rides Again,” Walsh added.

“How’d we get the name? We said, ‘Hey, this is that funk jam we have!’ And it seemed like we were counting how many times we ever played it. We thought it was right around 50. But we were in the studio with Bill Szymczyk, who was our engineer at the time, and he said, ‘It couldn’t have been 50.’ So we said, ‘OK, well, 49 then!'”

Related: Legendary Rock Star, 78, Surprises Fans With Performance of 1973 Chart-Topper

As Walsh explained in the book The Guitar Greats, he was responsible for “basic guitar lick,” while his bandmates made other contributions to the song.

“The words never really impressed me intellectually,” he admitted, “but they seemed to fit somehow. It was a real good example of how we put things together, bearing in mind that it was a three-piece group, and I don’t think that there was any overdubbing. The only thing we really added was the percussion middle part, which the three of us actually played, putting some parts on top of the drums, but that’s the three-piece James Gang, and that’s the energy and kind of the symmetry we were all about.”

That energy and symmetry still hit just as hard with listeners over 50 years later. “Funk #49” is still a regular fixture on classic rock radio, per Online Radio Box, not to mention a streaming hit: At the time of this writing, “Funk #49” has 80,122,260 plays on Spotify alone.

Related: The Eagles’ 1974 Classic Cover Was a Huge Disappointment to Original Songwriter: ‘As Exciting as Watching Paint Dry’

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If you’re a BookTok girly, or just love a good romance, then you’ve definitely stumbled upon the romantasy genre. Combining fantasy elements with romantic storylines—and usually a lot of spicy intimate scenes—these fantastical books have become a staple online in the bookish communities. When it comes to the most popular or best romantasy books around, titles like A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) by Sarah J. Maas, Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros and From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout come to mind. 

But readers who love romantasy don’t just love reading; you might also be an avid consumer of PerfumeTok content, too. Whether you’re all up in the latest fragrances trending over there or you just love fragrances, and you can’t get enough of these novels, then perfumes based on books might just be up your alley. And if so, then we have several romantasy book-inspired fragrances suggested by a fragrance aficionado who just so happens to be a massive fan of this genre of books as well: Kathleen Fuentes. 

Parade spoke with Fuentes, a popular beauty content creator who has a separate perfume-related TikTok account, @KathleenSmells, with over 150k followers. She’s been known as KathleenLights online for over a decade and has over 659k followers on TikTok and nearly 2 million followers on Instagram. She’s also talked about her love of the romance genre of books on her YouTube, which has over 4 million subscribers. 

“I’ve been a reader for a long time, but the book that really made me feel something was Anna and the French Kiss when I was in ninth grade. It was one of those stories that completely hooked me and made me chase that feeling ever since,” she tells Parade. “Since then, romance has stayed one of my favorite genres, and over time that naturally expanded into romantasy too. I’ve always loved stories with strong emotional payoff, tension and a big sweeping love story at the center.”

Fuentes’s company, Lights Lacquer—which just launched its first-ever hair and body mist, Amber Hour—even released a Dark Fantasy collection last year, which was inspired by dark fantasy romance books on BookTok. So you’re in great hands when it comes to discovering perfumes matching romantasy books, as well as fragrances that best match your favorite reading tropes. Read on to find out which perfume you need to try out next!

Related: If You Loved ‘Quicksilver,’ You Won’t Be Able To Put These 11 Books Down, Librarians Say

Quick Guide: Matching Romantasy Books to Signature Fragrances

Romantasy Book Title

The Recommended Perfume

Main Scent Notes

‘A Court of Thorns and Roses’ by Sarah J. Maas

KAYALI Eden Sparkling Lychee

Sparkling Lychee, Rose Damascena, Vanilla Absolute

‘Fourth Wing’ by Rebecca Yarros

Discothèque Next To Me or Nothing

Cold Milk, Star Jasmine, Sandalwood

‘From Blood and Ash’ by Jennifer L. Armentrout

5 SENS Catch Feelings

Damask Rose, Vetiver Roots, Lychee

‘Quicksilver’ by Callie Hart

Courrèges Hyper Musc

Musk, Peppermint, Vanilla

‘Throne of Glass’ by Sarah J. Maas

NEST Indigo

Moroccan Tea, Bergamot, Wild Fig

How We Paired Iconic Romantasy Vibes With Fragrance Profiles

As we stated above, Fuentes is a massive romance book lover and has talked about romantasy on her social media platforms often. So she knows these books and the themes and tropes within them very well. Not to mention, she has a strong knowledge of perfumes and the many notes that go into them. So when it came to pairing iconic romantasy books with fragrances that have different notes that make them fit right in with the story or vibes, Fuentes knows more than a thing or two. 

For instance, she tells Parade the fragrance notes that match romantasy as a genre.

“The notes that come to mind for romantasy are iris, rose, bergamot, musk and amber,” she shares. “To me, that mix captures what romantasy does so well: something luminous and romantic, but also soft, emotional and a little mysterious.”

She states that “bergamot gives that sparkling, almost magical opening; rose and iris bring elegance and romance; musk adds intimacy; and amber gives warmth and depth.”

Related: 27 Books Like ‘ACOTAR,’ According to Librarians

The 5 Best Perfumes Based on Your Favorite Fantasy Book, According to a Fragrance Expert ‘A Court of Thorns and Roses’ by Sarah J. Maas — KAYALI Eden Sparkling Lychee, $29-$150

Sephora

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ACOTAR is one of the most well-known romantasy books around. The 2015 novel is the first in the A Court of Thorns and Roses series by Maas and follows a hunter named Feyre who gets dragged off to a magical land as retribution for killing a wolf by a High Fae named Tamlin (who turns into a beast as well). Feyre’s feelings for Tamlin transform, and they face a threat to his land together. 

So for a perfume that pairs well with the ACOTAR story and themes, Fuentes chose KAYALI Eden Sparkling Lychee. 

“This works because it has a bright, juicy, addictive quality that feels romantic and fantasy-driven, but still playful,” she shares. “It fits the escapist, lush world of ACOTAR.”

‘Fourth Wing’ by Rebecca Yarros — Discothèque Next To Me or Nothing, $39-$175

Discothèque

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Yarros’ book, Fourth Wing, is another one that feels synonymous with the romantasy genre because of its popularity. It came out in 2023 and follows Violet Sorrengail, a small-in-stature young woman who loves books and was prepared to live a “quiet life” among them. That is, until her mother orders her to join the elite group of dragon riders at Basgiath War College, which is where our adventure begins. 

For a story like this, Fuentes suggests a perfume from luxury fragrance brand Discothèque: Next To Me or Nothing.

“This feels bold, electric and high-intensity, which matches the adrenaline and tension of Fourth Wing,” she states. “It gives main-character energy.”

‘From Blood and Ash’ by Jennifer L. Armentrout — 5 SENS Catch Feelings, $65

Sephora

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Like most of the books listed here and those within the romantasy genre, From Blood and Ash is part of a series, with this first one coming out in 2020. It takes place in a world where “the Maiden,” is meant to leave a life of isolation until her “Ascension.” But of course, Poppy (a Maiden) falls for Hawke, one of her guards who is supposed to make sure she makes it to her Ascension. With a kingdom hanging on by a thread, this obviously proves hazardous to everyone involved.  

Fuentes pairs 5 SENS’s perfume, Catch Feelings, with this story.

“This pairing fits because the book is emotional, intense and romantic in a way that feels immediate and consuming,” she shares. 

‘Quicksilver’ by Callie Hart — Courrèges Hyper Musc, $308

Courrèges

Shop it at Neiman Marcus

The first in the Fae & Alchemy series, Hart’s Quicksilver follows Saeris Fane, who has alchemical powers she uses to steal from the Undying Queen. When caught, she “accidentally reopens a dormant gateway between realms and is whisked away to a land of ice and snow,” per the book’s description. She finds the Fae there along with a centuries-long conflict. Saeris binds herself (accidentally) to a strong Fae warrior, Kingfisher, and gets caught up with him—personally and within this conflict.

When it comes to which perfume best matches the vibes of this book, Fuentes recommends Hyper Musc from French luxury fashion house Courrèges. 

“This makes sense for a story with tension and magnetism,” she tells Parade. “A musky fragrance feels intimate and close, which works well for that kind of chemistry.”

‘Throne of Glass’ by Sarah J. Maas — NEST Indigo, $32-$98

Sephora

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And lastly, another Maas book on this list is Throne of Glass, a 2012 book that started the series of the same name. The story follows Celaena Sardothien, an assassin summoned to a castle in a land with no magic, to defeat 23 people in a competition that will win her her freedom from prison. But there’s, of course, more to the story, including “something rotten” that is living within the castle. 

Fuentes believes this is a “strong” romantasy book to include on this list, and suggests the fragrance NEST Indigo. 

“It feels moody, rich and slightly mysterious, which suits the emotional depth and fantasy atmosphere,” she shares. 

Related: These Are the 9 Best-Smelling Perfumes for Women, According to a Fragrance Expert

How To Choose a Perfume Based on Your Favorite Reading Tropes

If you love romantasy books, then you definitely are a fan of reading tropes, especially (and maybe specifically) romantic ones. And there are fun ways to find scent profiles for different tropes, as Fuentes shares.

“A fun way to choose a perfume is to think less about the plot and more about the emotional atmosphere of the trope,” she notes. “Is it tense and slow-burn? Soft and comforting? Dark and dangerous? The best fragrance match should feel like the same energy as the relationship dynamic.”

Enemies-to-lovers: Le Monde Gourmand Bisous de Fleur, $30

Amazon

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For maybe the most famous romantic trope—enemies-to-lovers—Fuentes shares a perfume that also changes as you wear it. 

“You want something that transforms on the skin,” she says, sharing a recommendation for a collaboration she previously did with LMG. “A scent like Le Monde Gourmand Bisous de Fleur works well because it starts bright and citrusy, then dries down into something creamy and soft. That kind of evolution feels very enemies-to-lovers to me.”

Grumpy sunshine: House of Bō Acapulco76, $250-$370

House of Bō

The grumpy-sunshine trope sounds exactly as it sounds: it involves one character who is very bright, kind and lovely, and another who is the complete opposite (gruff, mean, depressed, etc.). It doesn’t just have to be a romantic trope, but there’s something about opposites attracting.

“I love this trope, and it reminds me of more natural-smelling perfumes like House of Bō Acapulco,” Fuentes shares. “It feels warm, breezy, easy and bright, but still grounded.”

Forbidden love: KAYALI Lovefest Burning Cherry, $105-$150

Sephora

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Another classic, forbidden love makes up a lot of iconic romance stories. And Fuentes states that KAYALI’s Lovefest Burning Cherry perfume is the perfect embodiment of that.

“Kayali Burning Cherry is perfect for this,” she says. “It’s rich, tempting and a little dangerous in the best way.”

Friends-to-lovers: Amber Hour from Lights Lacquer, $28

Courtesy Lights Lacquer

Friends-to-lovers is another transformative trope, yet this one is sweet and involves revelations about feelings and newfound appreciation for someone you’ve maybe known your whole life. Fuentes recommends something very familiar to her for this trope.

“I’d go for something soft, warm and familiar—a fragrance that feels comforting but still romantic,” she says. “Amber Hour from Lights Lacquer fits that perfectly. It has that cozy amber warmth that feels easy, intimate and lived-in, which is exactly how a great friends-to-lovers story unfolds.”

Related: 11 Vintage Fragrances That Deserve a Comeback

Top Indie & Niche Fragrance Brands Every Book Lover Should Know

When it comes to indie or niche fragrances or perfumes that book lovers should keep their eyes on, Fuentes shares Imaginary Authors. It is a brand that aims to “unlock memories you’ve long forgotten” through “innovative fragrances and creative storytelling.” On their “About” page, they say that they “view” their “fragrances like books,” meaning you shouldn’t just own one, but rather multiple to fit your mood, the season or your story in that moment.

Fuentes calls “this is an especially fun one for book lovers because the whole concept,” which to her “feels literary and story-driven.”

Imaginary Authors The Abandoned Mansion, $7-$115

Imaginary Authors

Shop it at Imaginary Authors

Each fragrance comes with a synopsis, on top of fragrance notes, and you can dig into the “memories [it] may conjure” on each perfume’s landing page, too. Plus, they come in packaging that looks like a book, which is a sweet touch.

Which perfumes smell like old paper and books?

And if you’re looking for fragrances that give off that smell of old paper or books—which can be so nostalgic for many—Fuentes shares Commodity’s two perfumes: Book and Paper. Commodity creates perfumes crafted by artisans and has names that give a hint of what’s inside. They also offer scent spaces on their site, where you can choose personal, expressive or bold versions of each perfume to customize how strong you want it to smell. 

Commodity Book, $155

Commodity

Shop it at Commodity Shop Book Personal at Sephora

Fragrance Family: Earthy, Woody
Scent Type: Warm Woods
Key Notes: Black Tea, Sandalwood and Cedarwood

Commodity Paper, $155

Commodity

Shop it at Commodity Shop Paper Personal at Sephora

Fragrance Family: Warm, Spicy
Scent Type: Warm, Sheer
Key Notes: Amber, Iso E Super and Sandalwood

Up Next:

Related: This Is the Most Expensive Perfume in the World (and Its $32 Affordable Dupe), According to a Fragrance Expert

Source:

• Kathleen Fuentes, AKA KathleenLights, is a beauty content creator and the founder of Lights Lacquer. She has over 659k followers on TikTok and nearly 2 million followers on Instagram. She also has a popular fragrance-focused TikTok account called @KathleenSmells, which has over 150k followers on its own.

Looks like some pop culture phenomena really do sparkle forever. Because the fans have spoken, and they are demanding a return to the rain-soaked timber town of Forks, the immortal soulmate saga of Bella Swan and Edward Cullen, and the forever-enduring Team Edward vs. Team Jacob debate.

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According to the media experts at Playfame, the No. 1 movie Americans want to see make a comeback is Twilight. And perhaps the timing isn’t a coincidence. Netflix is already taking another bite out of the vampire saga with a new series, but more on that later.

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By analyzing monthly search volume over 12 months, Playfame found that Twilight averaged 3,370 U.S. searches per month. That’s particularly surprising considering the company Twilight beat out. From nostalgic classics like Back to the Future, Jaws, and Ghostbusters, to newer films like Friday the 13th, Star Trek, and Kill Bill—all of which made the Top 10—Twilight was the definitive winner.

Top 10 Films Americans Want Back

Title

Year of latest release

US Search Volume

Twilight

2012

3370

Friday the 13th

2009

2170

Back to the Future

1990

1650

Star Trek

2016

1500

Jaws

1987

1020

Ghostbusters

1984

900

Kill Bill

2004

750

Matilda

1996

700

Forrest Gump

1994

660

The Mask

1994

630

“There’s something uniquely comforting about returning to a show or film we already know and love,” Playfame said in a press release. “Whether it’s the characters, storyline, or simply the memories attached to it, these familiar favorites can offer a sense of escapism and comfort.”

Released in November 2008, the first film in a five-film series became a pop culture obsession. Adapted from the wildly popular novels by Stephenie Meyer, the movie starred Kristen Stewart as protagonist and human Bella Swan and Robert Pattinson as her love interest and sparkly vampire Edward Cullen.

The movie was a smash, grossing more than $400 million worldwide on a modest $37 million budget. And despite hemming and hawing from critics, it still spawned several sequels, turned its leads into bona fide superstars, and set in motion an impact that continues today.

Just look at 2025’s Netflix charts. When Twilight became available to stream at home, the film debuted in the seventh spot on the domestic charts, per CBR, and entered the global charts in fifth place the following week. The sequels had similar showings.

Lucky for fans, there’s a new entry in the Twilight-verse in the works over at Netflix. According to the streamer, Midnight Sun is an animated retelling of Twilight from Edward’s perspective, with its source material coming straight from Meyer’s 2020 companion novel. Meyer will serve as an executive producer on the series.

“It’s not simply about looking back and hoping that their favorite shows and films pick up where they left off,” Playfame said, “audiences are actively engaging with the possibility of seeing their favorite franchises given a new lease of life.”

Nearly two decades after Bella turned the lip bite into a meme and Edward perfected the clenched jaw in a film that would become a 2000s time capsule, the franchise is proving it still has plenty of life left. And even more hunger from its fanbase.

Related: 1976 Hit, Featured in James Gunn’s Marvel Debut, Became One of Classic Rock’s Greatest Movie Moments

While it’s rare that a song with no vocals takes over music charts, it has happened, and in 1950, it was an unexpected movie theme that captivated listeners everywhere.

In late 1949, the film noir movie The Third Man starring Orson Welles came out in the U.K. and became super popular with audiences. Quickly, the song’s theme, written and performed by Anton Karas, dominated the airwaves, so much so that the song was released as a single alongside the movie’s February 1950 U.S. release.

“The Third Man Theme,” also known as “The Harry Lime Theme,” had no words or vocals, but it was still a hit nonetheless. A lot of the song’s charm came from the use of the unique zither instrument. It quickly sold over half a million copies within weeks of its release, and soon enough, it became a true bestseller.

Starting on the April 29 edition of Billboard‘s Best-Selling Pop Singles chart, “The Third Man Theme” took the top spot, beating hits like Teresa Brewer‘s song “(Put Another Nickel In) Music! Music! Music!” and Gene Autry‘s rendition of “Peter Cottontail.”

The movie instrumental held the top spot on the Best-Selling Pop Singles chart for 11 weeks. Its final week at No. 1 was the July 8 edition of the list, but it was still on the chart for weeks afterward. Along with its best-selling pop single status, the song’s sheet music was also a bestseller.

The theme for The Third Man was technically 15 years in the making. Director Carol Reed explained how the song came to be in an interview with Charles Thomas Samuels for the book Encountering Directors.

He said that Karas was working on the soundtrack when he played a new tune, or at least new to Reed, for him one night. It would go on to become “The Third Man Theme.”

Reed recounted their conversation that night: “‘Why haven’t you played that before?’ I said. ‘I haven’t played it for fifteen years,’ he answered, ‘because when you play in a cafe, nobody stops to listen; music is just background for talk and drinking and shouting.'”

Related: 1979 Rock Song, Written by Neil Young, Among “Greatest Rock Song Lyrics of All Time”

Karas explained that the tune was a challenge to play on the zither, so he usually played easier songs when performing at public venues. Reed added, “It turned out he’d composed the tune himself but had nearly forgotten it.”

Thankfully, the song came back to him, and it made it into the film. Reed admitted that the song was practically impossible for a zither player to perform on their own. He said that Karas “played the tune, then, with an earphone rerecorded it, adding thirds. In the ordinary way, no zither player could do it.”

It was certainly worth all the effort. Karas’ song became a huge hit and a part of one of the most iconic movies in film history.

Related: 1939 Hit Song, Featured in ‘Shawshank Redemption,’ Became One of the Best-Selling Singles of All Time

Music icon Billy Joel is starring in a new documentary, but he had nothing to do with the film. 1971: Billy Joel’s Lost Interview features an AI version of the then-22-year-old ‘Piano Man.’

While what you see on film is a recreation of the singer based on an AI reimagining of what Joel looked like in the early 1970’s, the lost 50-year-old audio is real. The 20-minute clip comes from a radio interview with Ed Mann, Joel, and Joel’s manager Irwin Mazur for C W. Post’s WCWP station’s ‘That’s Interesting’ show following the release of ‘Cold Spring Harbor.’ 

The film will premiere at the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF) Music Documentary Film Festival on September 25. Executive Director of the festival, Tom Needham, said of the AI doc, “We are entering a new era in filmmaking, where emerging technologies like artificial intelligence are creating new possibilities for preserving and sharing stories from the past.”

Billy Joel during the recording of his album The Bridge. Recorded at The Power Station recording studio on August 20, 1986 in New York, New York. (Photo By Larry Busacca/Getty Images)

Needham continued, “We recognize that AI in entertainment is a topic that will generate discussion and different viewpoints, but this film demonstrates how technology, when used thoughtfully, can help us reconnect with important moments in music history. 1971: Billy Joel’s Last Interview allows audiences to see a young Billy Joel before worldwide fame changed his life, and we hope people will experience it with curiosity and an open mind.”

Film director and producer Adam Ripp (the son of Joel’s music producer, Artie Ripp) shared, in a press statement, “It is a tremendous honor for 1971: Billy Joel’s Lost Interview to be selected as the opening night film of the LIMEHOF Music Documentary Film Festival.” 

He added, “Featuring the earliest known recorded interview with Billy Joel—predating his earliest known “Piano Man”-era interviews by approximately three years—the film captures him at the very beginning of his extraordinary journey, speaking candidly about his life, his struggles, and the music he was determined to create. I cannot imagine a more meaningful setting for the film’s world premiere than an institution dedicated to preserving and celebrating Long Island’s remarkable musical legacy.”

Mann, who was the interviewer on the tape, is also one of the film’s executive producers. “It’s like 50 years just disappeared. We were all good looking back then,” said Mann. “Adam brought to life something that was not possible. The recreation of the interview now allows an insight of Billy, which perhaps was not often seen in 1971.”

What do Billy Joel’s fans think of the AI documentary?

Joel’s fans aren’t thrilled about this AI interpretation. On the Billy Joel subreddit, one commenter posted, “I would argue that this is actually worse than remixing an album without Billy’s permission. This is just blatant AI,” and another added this blunt critique: “That looks awful.”

While the Grateful Dead‘s frontman was the late Jerry Garcia, the singer and guitarist rarely penned lyrics for the jam band’s songs. Instead, Robert Hunter, who died in 2019 at the age of 78, was largely in charge of coming up with the Grateful Dead’s lyrics.

However, Garcia penned the lyrics to the 1967 tune “Cream Puff War,” off the band’s first record, also called Grateful Dead, as reported by Far Out magazine. According to the publication, in a 1967 interview with KMPX DJ Larry Miller, Garcia discussed writing “Cream Puff War,” which is on the shorter side for a Grateful Dead song, coming in at 2 minutes and 31 seconds.

“The title came after the song. I already developed the idea – this is the only song that I claim totally – this is mine from beginning to end! I actually wrote it,” said Garcia, who died at the age of 53 in 1995. “We were down in LA, I was writing, I had the changes worked out and the bridge and the first verse.”

He then said that his bandmate the late Ron “Pigpen” McKernan suggested the song’s title, before Bob Weir injected that it was actually his idea.

“Or you did, somebody did,” said Garcia to Weir, who died in January 2026 when he was 78. “At any rate, the title doesn’t really mean anything particularly…it was a name that happened to be around, and then later on I happened to work it into the lyric as the last line.” 

Far Out magazine reported that the Grateful Dead, known for their live music, played “Cream Puff War” a mere 11 times in front of an audience. According to the publication, in 1986, Garcia explained why the band refrained from performing “Cream Puff War.”

“That’s one of those tunes that’s so old it’s totally embarrassing. I’d just as soon everybody forgot about it,” said Garcia.

Grateful Dead Fans Have Shared Their Thoughts About ‘Cream Puff War’

While Garcia didn’t seem to overly appreciate “Cream Puff War,” Grateful Dead fans still enjoy the psychedelic rock number. For instance, in a 2022 Reddit post uploaded on the Grateful Dead subreddit, a fan wrote, “Just a reminder…cream puff war is a solid song.”

Several Reddit users agreed in the comments section.

“Always wished they had kept cream puff war in the rotation for a couple more years at least,” wrote a commenter.

“Jamming tune, it rocks. The dead always kept my feet on the ground when my head was flying high. Pink Floyd however made things boil l,” shared another.

“I heard this on the wya to work the other day, first time I consciously heard it. It was a delightful surprise,” added a fan.

In a 2025 Reddit upload, also shared on the Grateful Dead subreddit, a listener asked other fans how they felt about the band’s first record. Quite a few commenters shared they appreciated the album as a whole and pointed to “Cream Puff War” as a favorite.

“I think it’s great, cream puff war is a ton of fun, though viola lee blues is the only one that remotely captures anything close to what they were doing live in 1967,” wrote a Grateful Dead fan.

“Dude it’s killer! Viola Lee Blues, Golden Road, Cream puff War, Cold rain and snow, beat it down the line. All amazing stuff,” added a commenter.

Diane Warren has a new friend.

The Grammy Award-winning songwriter has a new celebrity in her life. Warren adopted a pig that went viral last weekend after a video showed him running through the streets of West Hollywood, Calif.

“A lot of my friends were sending me footage of this poor little pig running through the streets of West Hollywood,” Warren told Variety.

Jamaal Harrison, who posted the video, follows the pig and yells, “There’s a pig in West Hollywood!” Adding, “We gotta catch the pig. … Come back, pig!”

The West L.A. Animal Services Shelter picked up the porker and waited for his owner to come forward. When no one claimed him, the shelter held a silent auction on Thursday, August 19. Marcia Zwilling, the managing director of the Diane Warren Foundation, won the pig with a winning bid.

“I called my friend Marcia Zwilling who runs my Animal Foundation,” Warren wrote in an email. “We agreed that we gotta save this pig!”

She added that “Marcia went this morning to the shelter where they were auctioning the pig, and as Marcia said, ‘Whatever it takes we gotta get this pig and give him a safe, wonderful home.’ So BY ANY MEANS we did! Wilbur is the cutest little thing, and he’s a celebrity now! We are all in love with him. Animals are precious sentient creatures. Welcome Wilbur!!!”

The pig was given the name Wilbur, referring to the children’s book Charlotte’s Web. He is estimated to be about 11 weeks old and could put on quite a few pounds as he gets older.

“This little pig can actually grow to be 50 pounds to 125 pounds,” Animal Services Public Information Officer, Agnes Sibal-von Debschitz told KTLA News, “You have to make sure you have enough space where you’re housing the pig, and then there are zoning and setback requirements.”

We are living through the Information Age, and we’re officially at the point where no children on Earth have ever lived in a world without social media. Soon, there will be no children who have ever existed without generative AI.

Though there are obvious benefits to technological advancements, there are also plenty of drawbacks—and Gen Z is one generation bearing the brunt of those disadvantages. In fact, there are some life skills that experts have observed to be challenging for Gen Z, aka those born between 1997 and 2012.

To learn more, we spoke with two career coaches: Nicole McDaniel, a board-certified coach specializing in career coaching, a licensed professional counselor and the founder of Nicole M. Coaching, and Dr. Bedford Palmer II, PhD, a licensed psychologist, professor, the counseling department chair at Saint Mary’s College of California and the founder of therapy practice Deeper Than Color.

McDaniel and Dr. Palmer each share an ability that they’ve observed Gen Z grads missing, and they both have something in common: they both stem from digital dependence. And if you are a parent or grandparent of Gen Z children struggling with these skills, it’s important not to criticize or condemn them; instead, you should help them.

“It is easy to judge young folks. We like to believe that if we were in their shoes, we would make better decisions,” Dr. Palmer tells Parade. “But in reality at that age we had different challenges. That said, we can be helpful by letting go of the judgment, and replacing it with our actual experiences.”

Keep reading for the skills most Gen Z grads are missing, according to McDaniel and Dr. Palmer.

Related: 3 Psychologists Agree This Is the Most ‘Underrated’ Positive Parenting Habit

Most Gen Z Grads Struggle With Being Present, According to a Career Coach

According to McDaniel, the #1 life skill Gen Z grads struggle with is “the ability to be present and live in the moment.”

“Gen Z is the first generation to grow up in a highly digital society where technology is always at their fingertips,” she explains.

And even though having constant access to information is valuable, it can also be a distraction that steals focus from being able to live in the moment.

One example of this often arises when sharing a meal with someone.

“How often do you or the other party receive a push notification or check for messages or emails?” she shares. “These types of digital distractions are completely normal for the society that Gen Z grew up in, but these digital distractions expose a life skill that is missing: the art of being present.”

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

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How To Encourage Your Gen Z Children To Be More Present 1. Model being present

“Parents and grandparents can use behavioral modeling techniques to non-verbally demonstrate how they hold presence and show attention,” says McDaniel.

“When conversing with your Gen Z child or grandchild, put down your phone, close your book, turn off the TV and connect with them, giving your undivided attention,” she adds. “Having a conversation that is intentional and present is an invaluable gift.”

Related: An Etiquette Expert Is Begging People To Stop This ‘Rude’ Habit in Social Settings

2. Introduce your kids to hobbies that take focus

McDaniel suggests introducing your kids and grandkids to hobbies you enjoy, “specifically those that require concentration and singular focus,” such as cooking, crafting or playing Mahjong.

Hobbies like these “are meditative in nature and naturally guide you to a greater level of presence and being in the here-and-now.” She adds that “the key here is reducing distractions and turning your attention to being in the present moment.”

3. Discuss boundaries

“With such a connected society, there’s often the unspoken expectation that we have to respond to texts, calls and emails immediately, even if the timing is inconvenient,” says McDaniel. However, “most inquiries are not emergent nor do they require an immediate response.”

Keeping this in mind, she recommends discussing boundaries with your kids, such as “how taking a pause prior to responding can be valuable not only in interpersonal relationships but also in the workplace.”

Related: 7 Phrases To Avoid When Emailing Gen Z Coworkers, According to an Etiquette Expert

Another Life Skill Many Gen Z Grads Are Missing Is Distinguishing Credible Information

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Dr. Palmer has observed many Gen Z students and grads facing challenges with media literacy, or “experiencing difficulties distinguishing between credible information and information that has been shared by unreliable sources.”

“From having a hard time finding appropriate sources for term papers, or labeling themselves based on ‘attachment’ style, to chasing curated lifestyles, media literacy has become a moving target where young people have been taught a lot about how to find sources, but seemingly little about how to determine credibility,” he explains. “Information being available online seems to be creating a wide-reaching halo effect, where visibility is equated with expertise, where ease of availability, especially when the information is confirmatory, overrides red flags around actual accuracy.”

With our society shaped by technology, social media and artificial intelligence, media literacy is becoming both more important and more challenging than ever.

“Young people will need to rise to challenges like learning to use AI as a tool instead of a substitute for their own voice, or being able to tell the difference between an authority and a loud mouthpiece, or being able to shield themselves from pressures to live unrealistically curated lives,” he says.

How To Encourage Better Media Literacy in Gen Z Kids 1. Lead with curiosity

“When your young person presents you with information that you doubt, lead with curiosity,” Dr. Palmer suggests. “Ask where they learned that and who first thought it up. Also ask about the context around the information. Model intellectual challenge without making it insulting.”

2. Practice what you preach

Before judging your child, take a look at the way you learn information and your sources.

“Then model making changes while normalizing the act of recalibration,” advises Dr. Palmer.

3. Pay for access to credible information

Teach your children the importance of getting information from credible sources. If you can afford to, Dr. Palmer recommends paying for your children’s subscriptions to reputable digital newspapers that are paywalled.

Up Next:

Related: We Asked 4 Psychologists What Usually Causes Adult Siblings To Drift Apart—They All Said the Same Thing

Sources:

• Nicole McDaniel is a Board-Certified Coach (BCC), licensed therapist (Licensed Professional Counselor/LPC) and the founder of Nicole M. Coaching.
• Dr. Bedford Palmer II, PhD, is a licensed psychologist, professor, counseling department chair at Saint Mary’s College of California and founder of therapy practice Deeper Than Color.

By 1983, Asia had already established itself as one of rock’s biggest supergroups, following the massive success of its 1982 self-titled debut, but the band continued that momentum, especially after the release of “Don’t Cry,” which quickly became one of their most memorable hits.

Composed of all-star members, including John Wetton from King Crimson and U.K., the supergroup also featured Steve Howe of Yes, Geoff Downes of The Buggles and Yes, and Carl Palmer of Emerson, Lake & Palmer, Asia released a number of standout tracks across its first two albums, among which is “Don’t Cry,” written by Downes and Wetton.

Released as the lead single from their second studio album, Alpha, the song marked the band’s transition from progressive rock toward a more arena-pop-rock sound.

Following the massive success of their self-titled debut album, the sophomore album was later described by members of the band as being “terribly finished off” and lacking the polish it could have had.

Asia members Steve Howe, John Wetton, Geoff Downes, Carl Palmer at Le Studio, Quebec, Canada, April 1983.

David Tan/Shinko Music/Getty Images

“Alpha was a record that I’m not saying is actually bad, but it was just terribly finished off. Mixed in completely a–-about-face values,” Howe mentioned in his 2016 book, Time and a Word: The Yes Story, as cited by Ultimate Classic Rock. Meanwhile, Palmer said, “The second album was a complete mistake and was put together, possibly, through greed, the ‘chasing the single’ syndrome. It was just full of pop tunes that just died miserably.”

As for “Don’t Cry,” it was the last song that the band included on the album, according to Songfacts.

“We actually wrote it in a bit of a hurry, because we felt we didn’t have the right track to kick the album off with,” Downes said in an interview, adding, “I had an idea, John [Wetton] had another idea, and we cemented them together.”

Despite the unexpected result, the song reached No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remained on the chart for 13 weeks.

In addition, “Don’t Cry” also made it to the UK Singles Chart, peaking at No. 33.

More than four decades after its release, the arena rock hit continues to make an impact, cementing its status as a timeless classic.

The song continues to receive praise from listeners in online discussions, with some Reddit users calling it one of the band’s standout tracks.

Related: ’80s Rock Band, Ranked Among Best Supergroups of All Time, Announces Exciting News

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Fall is right around the corner, which means comfy pants are about to start working their way back into the everyday rotation (if they haven’t already). If you’re looking for a new pair to add to the mix, the Gap Logo Fleece Joggers are currently as low as $20 on Amazon, down from $25, making them an easy way to ease into chillier weather without spending much. Prices vary by color and size and currently range from $20 to $53, with six colors to choose from and sizes run from extra small to XXL.

These classic Gap joggers are made from a 77% cotton and 23% polyester fleece blend that’s soft enough for lounging but not so relaxed that you can’t wear them out of the house. They feature a pull-on design with a drawstring at the elasticized waistband, plus elasticized cuffs that taper around the ankles. They also have pockets and are machine washable.

Gap Logo Fleece Joggers, $20 (were $25) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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The fleece design adds some warmth once mornings and evenings start getting cooler, but you can still throw them on with a T-shirt and sneakers on warmer afternoons. The relaxed sweatpant style also works for everything from a lazy Sunday at home to errands, road trips, or coffee runs. And with the lowest-priced colors at just $20, they’re an affordable closet refresh ahead of sweatshirt season.

Shoppers are especially impressed with how cozy they are. One reviewer said, “You could live in these pants,” while another described them as “buttery soft and so cozy.” A third added that they’re “perfect for fall or to lounge in.”

Related: Amazon’s ‘Very Soft’ and ‘Stretchy’ $6 Midi Knit Skirt Is Perfect for Early Fall Days

You could pair these with a white tee, denim jacket, and sneakers while the days are still warm, then swap in a sweatshirt once temperatures dip. Or for an easy weekend look, you could try them with a fitted tank, oversized button-down, and baseball cap for something that looks a little more put-together, even if you just rolled off the couch.

Shop More Deals

• Cozyfit Scrub Pants, $15 (were $24) at Amazon
• Campsnail 4-Pack Joggers Set, From $30 (was $46) at Amazon
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The Gap Logo Fleece Joggers start at just $20 on Amazon right now, and with fall getting closer, now is a great time to grab a pair before cozy pants become an everyday necessity again. Be sure to check your size in the navy uniform and ruby wine colors first if you want to snag the best price.

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Big Brother 28 is airing its Week 6 eviction tonight. Angela Murray, Haley Thogmartin, and Kamu Kirk sit on the block, after a topsy-turvy week that involved this season’s OTEV competition, an attempted bribe, and a game-changing use of the Diamond Power of Veto. But the nominees still have one more shot to avoid eviction and getting to have a candid conversation with Julie Chen Moonves. We’ll update this story throughout the night as the Block Buster and eviction results are revealed.

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Who was eliminated on Big Brother 28 tonight? Kamu Kirk Kamu Kirk on ‘Big Brother 28’

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Kamu Kirk became the sixth person evicted from Big Brother 28. Over the past month and a half, the MMA fighter established himself as the lead contender, one of the biggest competition threats and amassing allies all over the place. It all came crashing down, however, when Rick Devens commandeered the week’s plans by using the Diamond Power of Veto. When Kamu lost the Block Buster, the house near-unanimously came together to land a TKO.

Who won the Block Buster on Big Brother 28 tonight? Angela Murray Angela Murray on ‘Big Brother 28’

Evan Mulling/CBS

Angela Murray ruled victorious in the Block Buster this week. She was able to take advantage of the fact that she had seen this particular competition before. Her ball handling skills paid off in spades, giving her the win and removal from the block.

Related: Meet the ‘Big Brother’ Season 28 Cast — Including the Surprising Reality TV All-Stars!

Who’s left in the game on Big Brother 28? Angela Murray Barrett Pfeiffer Dee Valladares Drew Campbell Haley Thogmartin Jason De Puy LaTrice Verrett Mallory Aurichio Melody Morris Rick Devens Taylor Brown Yash Patel

The Week 7 Head of Household competition will determine who takes power next. Check back on Friday after the HoH competition to find out who won, who’s nominated, and who could be headed for the block next.

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