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Some books become bestsellers the moment they're published. Others simply wait for the right generation to discover them.

That's the story behind I Who Have Never Known Men, the haunting dystopian novel by Belgian author Jacqueline Harpman. Originally published in French in 1995 under the title Moi qui n’ai pas connu les hommes, the novel has surged back into the spotlight nearly three decades later, recently ranking among Goodreads most-read books of the year. Its remarkable resurgence follows an explosion in popularity across BookTok and other social media communities, where readers have embraced its unsettling story and philosophical themes.

The novel has taken an unusual path to modern success.

After its original French publication, Harpman's novel was translated into English by Ros Schwartz in 1997.

"In those days there was no internet," Schwartz told Musing. "I corresponded with Harpman by snail mail. I asked her a handful of questions to which she replied. I wouldn't call it guidance but rather clarification."

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The first English-language edition appeared in the United Kingdom under the title Mistress of Silence, while the U.S. edition was published the same year as I Who Have Never Known Men, the title that has remained attached to subsequent editions. A revised translation and a 2022 reissue introduced the novel to a new audience after years of relative obscurity.

The story follows a young girl imprisoned underground alongside 39 women, guarded by silent men for reasons none of them can explain. When the captives finally escape, they discover a vast, empty landscape and begin searching for answers about the mysterious world around them. Blending dystopian fiction with philosophical reflection, the novel explores identity, freedom, memory and what it means to be human.

For years, the book remained a hidden gem known primarily among readers of translated fiction. That changed dramatically after readers on TikTok and BookTok began recommending it as one of the most unforgettable novels they had ever read. The viral enthusiasm fueled a remarkable revival, with the reissued edition selling more than 100,000 copies in the United States during 2024 and earning widespread acclaim from a new generation of readers.

Its newfound popularity has also transformed Harpman's legacy. Although the Belgian novelist, who died in 2012, wrote numerous acclaimed works throughout her career, I Who Have Never Known Men has become her best-known novel internationally. What was once a quietly admired work of literary science fiction has evolved into one of the defining viral book success stories of the decade.

"There is something essentially uplifting in the women's quest for survival and ability to adapt in I Who Have Never Known Men," said Schwartz.

Nearly 30 years after it first appeared in French bookstores, I Who Have Never Known Men is reaching more readers than ever before. Its place among Goodreads' most-read books this year demonstrates how a powerful story can transcend languages, generations and even decades, proving that some literary classics simply need time to find the audience they deserve.

Related: Best-Selling Author’s Novel Ranked Among ‘Most Read Books’ in United States on Goodreads

One of the most anticipated movies of 2026 is set to open on July 17, and now movie-goers can get a sneak peek at a special limited-edition popcorn bucket that hits theaters just in time for The Odyssey’s premiere.

AMC Theatres recently gave fans a glimpse of one of the most intricate, amazing, and just plain awesome cinematic-themed swag of all time—the IMAX camera bucket. And if you’re thinking, “So what? It’s shaped like a camera. Big deal,”  look again. 

Sure, it holds popcorn. But that’s not all. AMC Theatres recently explained in an Instagram post featuring the collectible, “See The Odyssey and bring home an IMAX Camera popcorn bucket with a working viewfinder!”

Along with the explainer, the post also features a video of celebs such as Odysseus himself (Matt Damon), as well as other superstar cast members Zendaya, Lupito Nyong’o, Anne Hathaway, and Tom Holland, all oohing and ahhing over the buckets.

View this post on Instagram Why are AMC Theatres debuting IMAX popcorn buckets for ‘The Odyssey’?

Of course, AMC didn’t just randomly decide to tie this camera-shaped popcorn bucket to any movie. The theater has a real reason for choosing this as one of The Odyssey’s collectibles. 

Christopher Nolan’s epic is shot entirely on 70mm IMAX cameras. That makes it the first full-length feature blockbuster to be filmed using this type of technology. And while AMC Theatres already teased the kind of creepy, but still utterly well-received, Trojan Horse popcorn bucket (because, why not eat a salty snack from the belly of a horse?) a few weeks ago, the addition of the IMAX bucket is an unexpected option that fans are already kind of obsessed with.

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The announcement in AMC’s recent Instagram post got plenty of attention, with commenters sharing, “It’s gonna be sold out in 2 min”, “I need 40 of those,” and “Def need one of these. Looks awesome.”

How to get a collectible IMAX Popcorn Bucket for ‘The Odyssey’

According to AMC, the limited-edition buckets are available in theaters on July 16 and sell for $49.99 while supplies last. The battery-operated light-up LED screen shows images from the film, making it truly a treat for fans (and maybe even worth the almost-$50 price tag). 

Each of The Beatles would ultimately embark on their own side quests and solo ventures following the iconic band's success.

Most notably is Sir Paul McCartney, who is still keeping busy with making and performing music for his countless fans around the world.

Sunday, June 28 marks 46 years since one of his many hit singles topped the music charts, which is worth mentioning since "Coming Up" in focus is one of the few "live" recordings to reach No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

American disc jockeys reportedly preferred it to the studio version on the flip side of the record. The "Live At Glasgow" recording remained at the top of the Billboard survey for three weeks.

Listen to the chart-topping version by McCartney, 84, below.

Fans are still commenting on the YouTube upload to show their appreciation for "Coming Up," even into this last year. "Has a nice 70s vibe he is so cute I like it and get down get down so sweet just love it," wrote one user earlier in 2026, while another person commented, "God. I MISS THE 70s! 😢❤"

In other McCartney news, Saturday Night Livestar Sarah Sherman told People earlier this month the amusing yet hair-raising story of when she met the former Beatle.

Sherman, 33, had previously mentioned that her trademark mullet hairstyle reminded her of look McCartney sported in his youth. So when the music legend appeared on SNL May 16 with Will Ferrell, he made a comment to the comedian about her style.

“So, basically I was doing a bit talking about how I have his mullet from his Wings era,” she said during the 5th Annual Las Culturistas Culture Awards at the United Theater in Los Angeles on May 30. “And so he came up to me after the show and he pulled up my mullet and he was like, ‘Is it real or is it a wig?'" Find out the rest of the rest of the story here.

Long before it became one of Barbra Streisand's signature songs, "Evergreen" was written to tell a love story on the big screen.

Released in 1976 as the love theme from A Star Is Born, the sweeping ballad quickly took on a life of its own. Co-written by Streisand and songwriter Paul Williams, "Evergreen (Love Theme from A Star Is Born)" became a massive commercial success, topping the Billboard Hot 100 and earning its place among the defining love songs of the decade.

"They're magical things," Streisand told NPR of her songwriting instincts. "I can't describe it to you. It's why I could write 'Evergreen,' 'cause I hear it in my head. I hear it, and then I have to figure out how you do it. I had to learn to play the guitar to do it."

"She sat down and played on a guitar, the melody for 'Evergreen' that she'd written," recalled Williams in an interview with Songfacts. "It was just such a beautiful melody. I said, 'There's your love song. There's the big love song.' I asked her for the melody. She put it on tape for me, and I took it home."

It was history in the making. The song's success mirrored that of the film itself.

Streisand starred opposite Kris Kristofferson in the 1976 remake of A Star Is Born, portraying aspiring singer Esther Hoffman alongside Kristofferson's fading rock star John Norman Howard. At the emotional center of the film was "Evergreen," a heartfelt ballad that captured the enduring love shared by the two characters while showcasing Streisand's soaring vocal performance.

The recording became one of the biggest hits of Streisand's remarkable career. In addition to reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, "Evergreen" topped the Adult Contemporary chart and won both the Academy Award and the Golden Globe for Best Original Song. It also earned Streisand a Grammy Award for Song of the Year, making her the first woman to receive that honor as a songwriter.

The success further cemented Streisand's place as one of the era's most accomplished entertainers. Already an acclaimed actress and recording artist, she added another milestone to a career that would eventually span music, film, television and Broadway, with "Evergreen" standing as one of its defining achievements.

Over the decades, the ballad has remained a fixture on adult contemporary and easy listening radio. Its lush orchestration, timeless melody and universal message of enduring love have helped it connect with generations of listeners long after its chart run ended, while its association with A Star Is Born has introduced it to new audiences through the film's lasting legacy.

"I love when people write me and they say, 'I played you at my wedding.' 'That song helped me get through cancer,'" Streisand told CBS News. When I help people through my music or film, that's what makes me feel good, that I've earned my right to be born, you know, that I earned my right to be here, and to reap the success that has been lathered on me."

Nearly 50 years after its release, "Evergreen" continues to rank among Barbra Streisand’s most beloved recordings. What began as the emotional centerpiece of a Hollywood romance ultimately became one of the defining radio ballads of the 1970s, proving that some love songs never fade.

Related: 1970 Power Ballad, Reimagined 24 Years Later, Became a Soft Rock Anthem

Hospitals can be a place of celebration and new life as babies are brought into the world, but they're more often than not a place where people are hurting and healing. When you're sick and need medicine to recover, you visit your doctor's office or nearest urgent care, no matter how scary it may seem. The point is, without doctors and nurses—and the locations where they work—our world would be a much scarier place. And sometimes when people are going through something tough, they choose humor as a way to cope. Laughter can be the best medicine after all! And that's where doctor jokes come in handy.

Making a corny quip or laughing at seemingly inappropriate times can be equally as misplaced as it is hilarious. However, if you're around people you feel comfortable with or in a situation that you feel could use some comic relief, what's the harm? Going to the doc or being in a place where doctors work can be pretty serious business, yet no one should take life too seriously. Life is meant to be enjoyed and spent with those you love most. Why not spend that time laughing when you can?

Whether you're in serious need of some puns or just love a good laugh, these 87 doctor jokes, medical jokes and puns, lab jokes and hospital jokes are sure to be just what the doctor ordered!

Related: 75 Pickle Puns That Prove These Jokes Are Kind of a Big Dill

87 Best Doctor Jokes

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1. Patient: "Doctor! My son just swallowed a roll of film!"
   Doctor: "Let’s just hope nothing develops."
2. Patient: "Doctor, are the test results ready yet? I’m dying of curiosity!"
   Doctor: "Actually, not only from curiosity."
3. Doctor: "Bad news: Your white blood cells are elevated."
   Patient: "What does that mean?"
   Doctor: "Up."
4. Patient: "Doctor, my leg hurts. What should I do?"
   Doctor: "Limp."
5. Doctor: "Which do you want first, the good news or the bad news?"
   Patient: "Give me the good news."
   Doctor: "You’re about to have a disease named after you."
6. Patient: "Doctor, I have a ringing in my ear."
   Doctor: "Well, answer it."
7. Patient: "My child swallowed a pen. What should I do?"
   Doctor: "Use a pencil."
8. Doctor: "There’s good news and bad news. The bad news is, you have partial short-term memory loss."
   Patient: "Oh no. What’s the bad news?"
9. Patient: "Doctor, I broke my arm in two places."
   Doctor: "Stop going to those places."
10. Doctor: "I’m sorry, but you only have five minutes to live."
    Patient: "Five minutes? Is there anything I can do?"
    Doctor: "Boil an egg?"
11. Doctor: "You’re as healthy as a horse!"
    Patient: "That’s great."
    Doctor: "A horse with kidney stones."
12. Patient: "Doctor, I get heartburn every time I eat birthday cake."
    Doctor: "Next time, take off the candles."
13. Patient: "Doctor, I think I need glasses."
    Teller: "You certainly do! This is a bank."
14. Patient: "Doctor, every time I look in the mirror, I get sick to my stomach. What’s wrong with me?"
    Doctor: "I don’t know, but your eyesight is perfect."
15. Doctor: "You’re losing a lot of blood and need an infusion. What’s your blood type?!"
    Patient: "B positive."
    Doctor: "I’m trying, but you’ve lost a lot of blood."

Related: Got a Wicked Sense of Humor? These 185 Dark Humor Jokes Will Be Right Up Your Alley

Medical Jokes

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1. I went to the library to get a medical book on abdominal pain, but somebody had ripped the appendix out.
2. I heard a joke about amnesia, but I forgot how it goes.
3. The plague, the flu and the common cold walk into a doctor’s office. The doctor asks, "What is this? Some kind of sick joke?"
4. It takes guts to be an organ donor.
5. I’ve got this awful disease where I can’t stop telling airport puns. The doctor says it’s terminal.
6. I have a mysterious illness where I seem to get sick only during the work week. My doctor says it’s a weekend immune system.
7. Yesterday, the doctor told me I was colorblind. The diagnosis came completely out of the green.
8. You can hear the blood in your veins if you listen varicosely.
9. Why do medical students hate the test on kidney stones? It’s the hardest to pass.
10. Want to hear about that new do-it-yourself orthodontist? Brace yourself.
11. For years, I was against organ transplants. Then I had a change of heart.
12. Dogs can’t operate an MRI machine, but a CAT scan.

Medical Puns

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1. How is an ER like a hot nightclub? People are dying to get in.
2. Honestly, I prefer can’t-cer.
3. What do you call a pony with a cough?
   A little horse.
4. My doctor told me to watch my drinking, so now I drink in front of a mirror.
5. Doctors are like God. People put off seeing them until it’s time to die.
6. Why did the vampire go to the doctor?
   So much coffin!
7. A friend of mine made so many rash decisions. It's no wonder he became a dermatologist.
8. Why does the infectious diseases ward of the hospital have the best Wi-Fi? Because of all the hotspots.
9. Why did the shark call the doctor after eating a clownfish?
   It tasted funny.
10. PMS jokes aren’t funny, period.
11. Nurse: "Wow, that cut looks terrible. Do you want me to stitch it up?"
    Patient: "No, thanks."
    Nurse: "Fine, suture self."
12. My doctor said I only have 10 weeks to live. When I told him I couldn’t pay the bill, he gave me another six months.

Related: 175 Bad Jokes That Are So Cringeworthy, You Can’t Help but Crack Up

Medical Dad Jokes

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1. What did the balloon say to the doctor?
   "I feel light-headed."
2. An apple a day keeps the doctor away, but only if you have good aim.
3. Why did the banana go to the doctor?
   He wasn’t peeling well.
4. What’s the one procedure that has never ended in a patient’s death? An autopsy.
5. Why did the Dalmatian go to the eye doctor?
   He kept seeing spots.
6. Why did Santa’s helper see the doctor?
   He had low elf-esteem.
7. What do you never want to hear after you get a prostate exam? "The doctor will be in shortly."
8. What type of dogs deliver blood test results?
   Laboratory retrievers
9. A skeleton goes to the doctor. The doctor sizes up the skeleton, then says, "Aren’t you a little late?"
10. Why did the doctor tell the nurses to be quiet when walking past the medicine cabinet?
    So they don’t wake the sleeping pills.
11. Why didn’t Elsa see a doctor for her sore throat and cough?
    Because a cold never bothered her anyway.
12. I wasn't able to play piano after my surgery. Turns out they removed that organ.

Lab Jokes

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1. Genetic testing revealed that my DNA is backwards. I said, "AND?"
2. After a long conversation, my wife and I have decided that we won’t vaccinate our kids. We think a doctor would do a way better job.
3. Did you know that diarrhea is hereditary? It runs in your genes.
4. What’s the opposite of antibiotics? Unclebiotics.
5. Two blood cells met and fell in love. But alas, it was all in vein.
6. I used to work in the lab with an incredibly ambitious guy who was obsessed with collecting skulls. He would do anything to get a head.
7. When I went to the medical lab to have some blood drawn, I was greeted with a load of questions from the technician. "Has your address changed?" she asked. "No," I answered. "Your phone number?" "No." "What about your birthday?"
8. Turns out you have a bladder infection. Urine trouble.
9. They’ve found the gene that causes shyness. They would have found it earlier, but it was hiding behind a couple of other genes.
10. A new study finds that repeating false statistics is hereditary. At least that’s what my dad says.
11. People think diabetes jokes are too harsh, but it’s not like we can sugarcoat them.
12. A biologist grew human vocal cords from stem cells in the lab. The results speak for themselves.

Related: 305 Best Dad Jokes That Are So Bad They’re Funny

Hospital Jokes

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1. A patient is super nervous before their first surgery. So the anesthesiologist reassures them, "This is a very simple procedure." The patient relaxes until the anesthesiologist adds, "You have
a higher chance of dying from the anesthesia!"
2. As I was admitted to the hospital before a procedure, the clerk asked for my wrist, saying, "I’m going to give you a bracelet." "Has it got rubies and diamonds?" I asked. "No," he said, "But it costs just as much."
3. A man calls the mental hospital and asks the receptionist if he can talk to the patient in room 42. They go to check, then return to report that room 42 is empty. The man sighs and says, relieved, "So I really did escape!"
4. ER Nurse: "So, what brings you here?"
   Patient: "An ambulance."
5. Doctor: "Nurse, how’s the little girl who swallowed a handful of quarters?"
   Nurse: "No change yet."
6. I've never understood why so many hospitals are named after saints. If I needed a serious surgery, I would want to go somewhere named after a person who's famous for not dying.
7. What do you call frozen Ibuprofen?
   A chill pill.
8. What happens when you steal somebody’s heart?
   You get cardiac arrested.
9. Why should you never lie to an X-ray technician? They can see right through you.
10. Doing rounds, a new nurse kept overhearing a surgeon yelling, "Typhoid! Tetanus! Measles!" Confused, they asked a colleague, "Why does he keep doing that?" They explained, "He likes to call the shots around here."
11. A woman calls her mother.
    "Mom? Don’t freak out, but I’m in the hospital…"
    "Rachel, you’ve been a doctor for over eight years. Stop starting every phone conversation we have like that."
12. Hospitals would be a lot more popular if they rebranded themselves as really intense spas.

Funny Doctor Jokes

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1. Patient: "Doctor, I’m addicted to brake fluid!"
   Doctor: "Nonsense, you can stop anytime."
2. A harried man runs into an emergency room. "Nurse! My wife's in labor! But she keeps screaming, 'Shouldn't, couldn't, wouldn't, can't!'"
   "Oh, that’s okay,” says the nurse. "She's just having contractions."
3. Patient: "Doctor, you have to help me out!" 
   Doctor: "Certainly, which way did you come in?"
4. Why was the doctor so bad at telling chemistry jokes? He never got a reaction.
5. How did the doctor cure the invisible man? He took him to the ICU.
6. Patient: "Doctor, I keep getting pains in my eye when I drink coffee." 
   Doctor: "Have you tried taking the spoon out?"
7. What is it called when you can’t sleep but instead eat all night?
   Insomnomnomnia.
8. Why are pediatricians always agitated? Because they have little patients!
9. Patient: "Doctor, I'm shrinking!"
   Doctor: "I'm sorry sir, you'll have to be a little patient."
10. The doctor told his patient to stop using a Q-Tip, but it went in one ear and out the other.
11. Years of smoking finally caught up with my friend Alex one morning when he keeled over at work, clutching his heart. He was rushed to a hospital and peppered with questions.
    "Do you smoke?" asked a paramedic.
    "No," Alex whispered. "I quit."
    "That's good. When did you quit?"
    "About 30 minutes ago."
12. Patient: "Doctor, I’m afraid of hurdles."
    Doctor: "Don’t worry, you’ll get over it."

Up Next:

Related: 110 Hilarious Golf Jokes That Are 'Par'fect To Share

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Summer is here, which means warmer temperatures and more time spent outdoors. If you have a patio, backyard, or any outdoor space, now’s a great time to refresh it with a setup that helps you relax and enjoy the season. Having enough cozy, patio-friendly seating is especially important at this time of year, when many people host 4th of July barbecues and other summer gatherings.

If you want something budget-friendly that still looks great, the Costway 3-Piece Rattan Patio Bistro Set is a strong option. It’s currently on sale for 60% off at Target, bringing the price down from $410 to just $165.

Costway 3-Piece Rattan Patio Bistro Set, $165 (was $410) at Target

Courtesy of Target

Shop at Target

This set includes two rattan chairs and a square side table, creating a cozy spot for lounging or catching up with someone. The chairs measure 22 inches long, 24.5 inches wide, and 31 inches tall, with a 360-pound weight capacity. The table measures 19 inches on each side and stands 18 inches tall, with a 66-pound capacity.

The materials are designed to hold up outdoors over time. The hand-woven Polyethylene rattan is weather-resistant, water-resistant, and fade-resistant, making it a reliable choice for long-term use. The chairs are supported by a heavy-duty steel frame with a rust-proof coating and adjustable foot-pads for added stability.

The table features a tempered glass top that’s both durable and easy to maintain. It’s heat-resistant, wear-resistant, and simple to wipe clean after use. The glass is securely held in place with suction cups to keep it steady.

Comfort is a big highlight of this set. The chairs have wide seats, curved armrests, and supportive backrests. Each one comes with a thick, high-density sponge cushion that feels soft while still offering support. They’re made from wear-resistant, water-resistant fabric and feature a zippered design, so you can easily remove and wash the covers when needed.

Style-wise, the set leans into a modern boho look thanks to the rattan texture. It’s compact enough to work in smaller spaces like balconies, patios, or poolside areas. Assembly is required, but it comes with clear instructions and all the necessary hardware.

Shoppers praised the set in reviews. One reviewer, who noted they put the set together by themselves in under an hour, called the cushions “comfortable,” adding, “The set is very sturdy and looks great in my backyard. The ergonomic backrest and curved armrests can effectively support and relax your back, arms, and hands.” Another described it as “gorgeous,” writing, “This is the best purchase I’ve made. It’s easy to assemble and looks contemporary.”

Related: Target's New Table Lamp Will Turn Your Bedroom Into a Cottagecore Dream

If you’re looking to upgrade your outdoor space for spring and summer, the Costway 3-Piece Rattan Patio Bistro Set is a great choice. With Target’s 60% discount, you can save nearly $250 on this stylish set and get your backyard set for all your warm weather gatherings, from 4th of July to Labor Day.

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

Throughout the 1960s, the pop rock band Paul Revere & The Raiders produced several hits like "Just Like Me," "Kicks," and "Hungry." 60 years after its release, "Hungry" is being recognized for its impact among fans of '60s music.

The publication American Songwriter recently included the song on a list of "4 rock songs from 1966 that make me want to travel back in time." The list, published on June 25, also featured '60s hits like The Rolling Stones' “Paint It Black," Count Five's “Psychotic Reaction," and Johnny Rivers's “Poor Side Of Town."

The publication reported that songwriters Cynthia Weil, who died in 2023 at the age of 82, and Barry Mann were responsible for penning "Hungry." According to the husband and wife's official website, the pair co-wrote other hit songs like Dolly Parton's "Here You Come Again" (1977), Lionel Richie's "Love Will Conquer All" (1986), and Cass Elliot's "Make Your Own Kind of Music" (1969).

Billboard reported that "Hungry" secured the number six spot on the Hot 100 charts the year it was released.

Mark Lindsay Discussed the Popularity of Paul Revere & The Raiders in 1966

The lead singer of Paul Revere & The Raiders, Mark Lindsay, discussed the band's popularity in the 1960s during a 1966 interview with Dick Clark. He said that he and his bandmates had "to be a lot more careful about where [they] go" because of their fandom.

"It gets pretty tight walking around in crowds. You can't do it anymore," said the musician, now 84.

He also said he had been chased by fans.

"They, like, scream and chase you. It's a fun game, but when they catch you and grasp and tear and rip, then the game isn't fun anymore," said Lindsay during the interview.

Lindsay clarified that he appreciated that Paul Revere & The Raiders had fans who enjoyed their music.

"When we're performing for [the audience], they seem to, like, really get away from whatever they're worried about, really get into what we're trying to give them. In other words, if they're that caught up in it and enjoying it that much, then it must be a great thing," said Lindsay in the 1966 interview.

Collin Gosselin is sharing his side of the story when it comes to mom Kate Gosselin's relationship with boyfriend Steve Neild.

In November 2025, Kate made her relationship with Neild Instagram official, which reignited a decade-old rumor that she cheated on ex-husband Jon Gosselin with her current beau.

Neild was once the family's private security guard, beginning during their time on the HGTV series, Jon & Kate Plus 8.

"I told you all," Jon wrote via his Instagram Story following his ex's relationship announcement. "No one believed me—guess I was right!"

Now, Collin — who is set to release a tell-all memoir later this year — is sharing his side of the story.

"Even before any articles came out, I always had information pertaining to [her] relationship with him. However, I always believe that advocating for abuse and things that went on in the home, and just any bad things that come from reality TV, I always believe that those were higher on the list of priority versus talking about her relationship with him," Collin told Strange McKnights during a recent interview.

He added, "However, when it does pertain to it being cheating, I think that's a different story. That should be put out there. I do not condone cheating. I do not appreciate it. I'm just very disappointed in my mother."

According to Collin, the Gosselin family was close with Steve, his ex-wife Gina and their children growing up. While the 22-year-old would not be surprised if his mother twisted the truth of their relationship, he went on to claim to have proof of an affair.

"We also have his home address registered to her home in Wernersville, [Pennsylvania]. So even before she moved to North Carolina, his address was
registered to Wernersville," he explained. "And actually, my sister Hannah has spoken to me and my dad about him actually living in the home."

Collin explained that family vacations usually included Neild, whom Kate was "always very close with," often sharing hotel rooms.

"I do not believe it's been a year. They were always very close, and like the signs were there of romantic involvement or an affair because things were always very shady," he said. "So I don't buy the oh, it's been a year. I mean, maybe she's okay talking about it now, especially since Steve's divorce with his wife...I'm not here to slander Steve. I actually do want to put a good point in here that oftentimes when Steve would come on vacations with us, I actually felt very safe because he used to actually defend me against her."

Despite all the daytime TV shakeups as of late, JHud’s talk show is still going strong while headed toward a fifth season. Fans couldn't be happier, as she never disappoints when it comes to bringing the energy in upbeat interviews with amazing guests. 

Recently, she welcomed Ciara, and leave it to those two to turn an interview into a dance party. I mean, it's CiCi, so do we expect any less?

The Grammy-winning singer stopped by The Jennifer Hudson Show to talk about family, fashion and her children's growing personalities, but by the end of the conversation, the two stars were on their feet dancing together as the audience cheered them on.

"Ciara, don't make me get up and do it again now," Hudson joked before asking producers to turn on the music.

Within seconds, the pair were laughing, dancing and encouraging each other to keep going.

Related: Drew Barrymore Channels the '80s With Boombox Dance Party

Ciara Says Her Kids Were 'Little Rock Stars' on the Runway

Before the music started, Ciara reflected on watching her children—Future, Sienna and Win—walk the runway for her family's children's clothing line.

"Listen, they are little rock stars," she said. "They get on that runway and the personality gets even bigger."

She especially loved watching daughter Sienna prepare for her big moment.

"Sienna was so cute. She was like, 'Mom, should I do a split when I go out there?'" Ciara recalled.

Ciara admitted she encouraged her daughter to keep it simple, but after another child performed a split on the runway, Sienna immediately looked at her mom and said, "See, I should have did a split."

The singer said all three children embraced the experience with confidence.

"The kids were so excited and they were ready for their moment, and they really rocked it," she said. "We were so, so proud."

Asked whether she thinks any of her children might one day follow in her or husband Russell Wilson's footsteps, Ciara said each of them has a bright future.

"They're going to do some big things," she said. "They all have such big personalities. They're all just so fearless."

She even predicted that daughter Sienna could one day pursue an entirely different path.

"I think Sienna honestly could one day be a president."

Related: 'Dance Queen,' With Six No. 1 Hits, Turns 64

Jennifer Hudson Couldn't Resist Joining the Fun

The conversation took another playful turn when Hudson joked about showing off her own dance moves.

Laughing about getting older, Hudson quipped, "Wait, now I'm 44 now," prompting Ciara to laugh that the pair looked "like two aunties."

Still, neither seemed interested in sitting still.

After Hudson called for the music, the two stars danced together in front of the audience, cheering each other on as they showed off their moves.

"You know, we could drop it, too," Hudson joked before getting low alongside Ciara.

When the music finally stopped, Hudson couldn't help but laugh at herself.

"Oh, I tore that up," she said proudly.

The lighthearted moment perfectly captured the easy chemistry between the two performers, turning an interview about family into one of the show's most joyful moments.

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The B-52s were forced to cancel a scheduled performance at the Retro C Trop Music Festival in Tilloloy, France, after a tornado struck the festival grounds, creating what the band described as an "incredibly dangerous situation" and damaging equipment on site.

The legendary American rock band, formed in 1976 and known for hits including "Love Shack" and "Rock Lobster," was set to perform on Saturday when severe weather rapidly moved into the area. According to statements from both the band and festival organizers, safety concerns led to an evacuation before the group could take the stage.

In a message shared on Instagram following the incident, the B-52s addressed fans who had gathered for the performance.

The B-52's perform "Love Shack" on stage during the 2009 CMT Music Awards at the Sommet Center on June 16, 2009, in Nashville, Tennessee.

Photo by Frederick Breedon/FilmMagic

"We are so sorry to everyone who came out to Château de Tilloloy yesterday. The storm made it impossible to continue, and the safety of our fans and everyone on site had to come first.”

View this post on Instagram

Festival organizers later confirmed that a tornado struck the venue late Saturday evening, causing extensive damage and forcing the cancellation of the festival's final day on Sunday.

"It is with great regret that we have been forced to cancel the final day of the 2026 edition of the festival, scheduled for this Sunday, June 28, due to a tornado that struck late yesterday evening and destroyed all the public facilities," the festival announced.

Artists, including Joan Jett and the Blackhearts and Europe, had been scheduled to perform during the final day of the event. Although the B-52s never made it onto the stage, some of the band's equipment had already been moved into position before the storm intensified.

Frontman Fred Schneider later described the experience as a "total disaster" in a social media post, explaining that a brief delay before showtime may have prevented the band and crew from being caught directly in the worst weather conditions.

According to Schneider, lightning was already present near the venue before the storm escalated.

"First, there was lightning, but the promoter still had the crew set up the stage and told the band to get ready to perform," Schneider wrote.

He credited tour manager Alice Martin for advising the band to wait before heading to the stage.

"Luckily, our tour manager said to hold back 10 minutes because it’s not safe and we have to see what is going on with the storm."

The cancellation comes as The B-52s remain active on the touring circuit. The group recently announced additional dates for its 2026 Cosmic De-Evolution Tour alongside Devo, with performances scheduled across North America later this year.

While the France festival appearance was cut short before it began, the band said its priority remained the safety of fans, crew members and everyone at the venue during the severe weather emergency.

Related: ’80s Rock Band Announces 2026 Tour With Two Rock Legends

Summertime really is the perfect time to get your home in order, especially when it comes to your garage. After all, the warmer weather makes it more comfortable to clean, declutter and revamp your storage there. If you are looking for ways to make your garage feel more organized and easy to navigate, this four-tier shelf from Aldi is just what you need. Even better, it retails for just $24.99. This is a total bargain for what it is.

Aldi's Easy Home Resin Shelving is perfect for leveling up your garage storage. Featuring four sturdy shelves, this black resin shelving unit will help you keep everything neat and organized. Each shelf has a 150-pound weight capacity, for a total of 600 pounds. From storing power tools to sporting goods, this sleek shelf has you covered.

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Easy Home Resin Shelving, $24.99 at Aldi

Aldi

However, this is a versatile organizational solution that can be used beyond just your garage. For example, this would be great in a small kitchen, a pantry, a home office or even a bedroom. The options are truly endless.

Related: Aldi's Boho Patio Upgrade Is Perfect for Summer Lounging

While this unit offers open storage, you can opt for cute baskets or boxes to add a bit of closed storage, too. It is totally up to you how you want to use it.

You can find this four-tier shelving at select Aldi stores now as part of Aldi's current selection of weekly Aldi Finds, limited-edition product specials that come and go every single week on Wednesdays. Aldi Finds include everything from home improvement items, such as this shelving unit, to pet supplies and so much more. You never really know what you will stumble across when you take a walk down Aldi's center aisles, where you can shop for these items.

If you're interested in other Aldi Finds, be sure to check out these pretty purple frying pans that come in a versatile three-piece set, this $10 two-piece fluted bowl set that's giving major Pyrex vibes for so much less, this Owala water tumbler dupe that comes in the most fun summer colors or this clever summer staple that's a total pool party must-have.

Related: Aldi Finally Stocked This Cult-Favorite Cut of Meat Again—but Shoppers Will Want to Act Fast

Betty Gilpin has called The Parent Trap her favorite rom com of all time.

The Office Romance star told People that she prepared for the role in the Jennifer Lopez film by watching loads of romanticcomedies. While she was already familiar with the genre, she gained a new perspective when watching them with her kids.

"I mean, I've seen every rom-com that exists," she told the outlet. "I think it's funny watching now that I have a five-year-old and a two-year-old, all these movies that I watched when I was younger, I'm now rewatching and now I'm noticing the kind of adult love story B-stories underneath."

She opened up why The Parent Trap is the best out of all the rom coms the GLOW actress watched. The film follows identical twins separated at birth, who coincidentally meet at a summer camp and orchestrate a plan to swap identities and reunite their families.

"By the way, Lindsay Lohan should have gotten an Oscar nomination, but the Natasha Richardson and Dennis Quaid love story in that movie is so beautiful. That's my favorite rom-com — Parent Trap," she added.

The plot of The Parent Trap follows identical twin sisters, Annie and Hallie, separated at birth after their parents' divorce. Raised on different continents without knowing the other exists, the girls coincidentally meet at a summer camp, discover their relation, and orchestrate an identity swap to reunite their family.

Another favourite for the Widow's Bay star is The Sound of Music, because she loved Captain Von Trap and Maria's romance.

"It's so sexy and beautiful and it just went over my little childhood at the time and now so I'm now the weird mom in the corner being like, 'This children's movie is so sexy and funny,'" she jokes.

Gilpin is currently promoting new Netflix rom com Office Romance, written and directed by Ted Lasso's Brett Goldstein. She plays Lopez's character's friend Sydney, who is pregnant throughout the film until she suddenly gives birth at work.

"When I got to set, I realized, oh, I'll literally be holding the hand of one of our greatest working mothers in this nation, Jennifer Lopez," she teased about her graphic birth scene. But, being real-life mother to Mary, born in November 2020, and a second daughter born in May 2024.

"It just felt like this meta thing of what being a working parent sometimes feels like, where you feel fully exposed and like you're screaming at the sun and your guts are on the table whether you want them or not out there, but also it felt really empowering and silly and fun," she adds. "And then it was time to go put my real kids to bed. It's like, oh, I guess that's my legacy now on camera forever. Well, time to make some mac and cheese."

Collin Gosselin says one of his biggest public challenges to his mother,Kate Gosselin, has gone unanswered.

On Sunday, June 28, the former Jon & Kate Plus 8 star shared a clip from an interview that he said was from 2025 where he publicly invited his estranged mother to take a lie detector test alongside him. 

Sharing the video (which was posted by reporter Strange McKnights the day before) to his Instagram Stories, Collin added an update. "This was a year ago and I’ve been stood up by my mom… again."

A screenshot from Collin Gosselin's Instagram account on June 28.

The interview, originally published in 2025, came after the 22-year-old publicly challenged Kate to sit down with him while both were connected to polygraph equipment. "I did just say on social media that I would like to invite my mom to do a lie detector test," he explained. "I wanna get into everything."

“Mom, if you're listening to this, we would ask about the zip ties… I would also let her ask questions like, were you ever violent towards your siblings?” Collin stated. 

Collin said he envisioned both of them being connected to "lie detectors, heart monitors, everything," while either they—or an independent interviewer—asked questions about their years-long family conflict. "I want the truth to be told," he said. "I always say there's the truth and then there's the truth from Kate Gosselin's point of view. So, let's just put it all out there."

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Collin's latest comments come as he prepares to release his memoir, In the Shadow of Eight: Surviving the Reality of My Childhood. "For a long time, I wasn't sure I'd ever tell this story," he wrote while announcing the book earlier this month. “Growing up, millions of people watched my life on television. People felt like they knew me. They knew my family. They watched me grow up. But there was so much they never saw."

The memoir is expected to revisit his upbringing on reality television, including his relationship with Kate, 51, who sent him to a behavioral health institution in 2016, later citing what she described as "unpredictable and violent behavior."

In the Shadow of Eight is set to hit shelves on October 13 this year.

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With the Fourth of July coming up, now is the perfect time to get your outdoor space ready for cookouts, late-night drinks, and extra time on the patio. The Rirool Mosaic Solar Lantern Set is a super easy way to add a little glow without plugging anything in, and right now, the two-pack is on sale for just $16 at Walmart, down from $30.

The set comes with two blue-and-green mosaic glass lanterns that are waterproof and can live just about anywhere outside, from a backyard table to a garden area. Each one measures 5 inches by 3 inches by 6 inches and comes with a hanging hook, or you could set them down on a flat surface. Plus, since they’re solar-powered, they turn on automatically at dusk and off at dawn. They charge after six to eight hours in sunlight and offer up to 10 hours of warm white light.

Rirool Mosaic Solar Lantern Set, $16 (was $30) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

These are great if you’re trying to make your outdoor space feel more visitor-ready without spending much on new patio decor. The mosaic glass adds a fun splash of color to a table, porch, or garden during the day, and at night, the warm light makes the space feel cozier and more inviting. And as an added bonus, you won’t have to worry about extension cords running across the patio.

One reviewer said, “They are so pretty during the day” and “even prettier” at night, adding, “They look so cute hanging on our deck.” Another wrote, “They are very colorful and light up and look beautiful,” while a third described them as “very nice and bright.”

Related: Walmart's 'Pretty' $15 Solar Lantern Set Brings a 'Lovely Ambiance' to Decks and Patios

These would be especially cute if you’re hosting for the Fourth of July and thinking of colorful ways to dress up your space. You could hang these around a deck or in the middle of a red, white, and blue-themed table setup, or even place them near a few small planters to make everything look a little brighter and more summery. 

Shop More Deals

• Szrsth 4-Pack Solar Lantern Set, $23 (was $80) at Walmart
• Rirool 2-Pack Solar Lantern Set, $12 (was $26) at Walmart
• Rirool Metal Floral Hanging Solar Lantern, $14 (was $27) at Walmart

If your backyard, porch, or patio could use a little more light before July 4th, the Rirool Mosaic Solar Lantern Set is worth adding to your cart. Be sure to grab the two-pack while it’s still on sale for just $16 during Walmart’s Summer Deals event.

Musicians have a habit of meeting before they become famous. They try out different bands and genres until they find something that works for them. Neil Young and Rick James's paths crossed, and they made music in the '60s. Surprisingly, a racist encounter is what led to them becoming bandmates.

Neil Young and Rick James Were in The Mynah Birds Rick James

David Corio/Redferns/Getty Images

Young, 80, met James in Toronto in 1966. The "Super Freak" singer was the frontman of The Mynah Birds, and Young played guitar. Bruce Palmer later joined to play bass, then was in Buffalo Springfield. Keyboardist Goldy McJohn was also in the lesser-known group before Steppenwolf.

The Mynah Birds had a record deal with Motown. But James was arrested for being AWOL, and the band's journey was interrupted. Young spoke about this time in his life in 1965 with MOJO Magazine.

"Yeah, there are tapes of me and The Mynah Birds also," the songwriter said. "After I arrived in Toronto, I tried to keep my band going and then tried to work with several others. But it just never worked out for me there."

Related: Why Joni Mitchell Wrote ‘The Circle Game’ for Neil Young

He saw a trend with his musical attempts in the city. "I could never get anything going in Toronto, never even got one gig with a band," he continued. "I just couldn't break into that scene. So I moved instead towards acoustic music and immediately became very introspective and musically-inward. That's the beginning of that whole side of my music."

The rock band's music is on Spotify. Both artists went to different genres later since James is known for funk and disco. Young is known for folk rock.

How Rick James and Neil Young Met

Music journalist David Fritz said James had a different relationship with Toronto. He spoke about this time in his life in a Showtime documentary, B-tchin': The Sound and Fury of Rick James, according to Esquire.

"Rick found his people, found his tribe in the mid-60s," Fritz said. "He fit in with the Canadian musicians who were very inventive. Whatever this new music was, he could do it. It didn’t matter that he was a brother from Buffalo. He could adapt."

Related: The Rolling Stones and The Beatles Rivalry Rumor Is Finally Addressed by Lead Singer

James later realized he would still experience racism in Canada. He was called the n-word on the street and started a fight. Garth Hudson, Levon Helm, and a third white man jumped in to defend him. James, Hudson, and Helm became friends. They then introduced James to Joni Mitchelland Young.

The "Give It to Me Baby" singer once talked about Young's work during their time together. "Neil was playing really melodic, really pretty chords," he said. "I would write R&B lyrics over these chords. Really, it was an interesting combination."

James died in his Los Angeles home in 2004. Young released a 13-track album, As Time Explodes, from songs throughout his solo career in 2025.

Related: 1992 Debut Rock Single’s Guitar Riff Was Created Accidentally

Crossovers are nothing new. From Frank, Elvis, and Babs, to Ariana, Beyoncé, and Bowie, making the jump from the screen to the mic and vice versa is territory well covered. But the latest star to mosey over into another realm of the entertainment industry is making a lot of noise. 

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Tom Hardy, easily one of the most greatest and most celebrated actors of the 21st century, just announced that he’s resurrecting his hip-hop persona, Frankie Pulitzer, for a rap album in collaboration with Czarface that will feature Busta Rhymes and Method Man. Czarface Meets Frankie Pulitzer is slated for Aug. 28. 

The news was accompanied by the first single from the record, “Brothers Grimm.” Described by Stereogum as a “fun little head-knocker,” the track is actually one of several collaborations between Hardy, 48, and the underground supergroup consisting of InspectahDeck (Wu-Tang Clan), 7L, and Esoteric. Hardy also rapped on the group’s 2021 EP, Good Guys, Bad Guys, which was featured heavily in Hardy’s Marvel Comics film Venom: Let There Be Carnage.

Before Hardy lit up Hollywood, he dabbled in modeling, music, and more. According to Stereogum, he first rapped under the moniker Tommy No. 1, with a mixtape leaking several years ago. Later, he became involved with Czarface. As Frankie Pulitzer/FacePuller, he recorded a selection of tracks. Czarface Meets Frankie Pulitzer will be their first full-length project together.

In other headlines, Hardy’s future on the hit Paramount series MobLand has been in question lately, with some reports claiming the actor was fired from the production and others reporting that negotiations led to the misunderstanding. Despite dueling reports, cast members have come to his defense, with Helen Mirren showing her support publicly on social media.

Making his feature debut in Black Hawk Down (2001), Hardy then added Layer Cake, Marie Antoinette, and RocknRolla to his resume, which was then boosted by iconic roles in films including Bronson, Inception, Warrior, The Dark Knight Rises, Locke, and Mad Max: Fury Road. Thanks to extreme dedication to a role and chameleon-like intensity, Hardy has become notorious for elevating every film he’s in.

“There is no other movie star quite like Tom Hardy, who embraces masculinity just as vehemently as he rejects it," The Independent wrote, explaining why they chose the English actor as one of the best of our time. “His accents are pure witchcraft, sourced from unexpected places, and he finds ways to upend and weaponise his physique in ways few others would dare. … Hardy can do it all – but he will do it in his own way.”

It’s only a matter of weeks before fans will get to see what he can do with a 15-track album.

Related: 1961 Ballad, the Most-Played Jukebox Song Ever, Became a Cross-Generational Anthem

Adele looks like she was having more fun than anyone at the Bad Bunny concert.

The beloved British singer, 38, was spotted on social media dancing it out on Saturday night at Bad Bunny's show at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London. Joined by her fiancé, Rich Paul, Adele borrowed a pava hat, a traditional Puerto Rican straw hat commonly worn by agricultural workers, to dance it out in the stadium seating.

A fellow concert-goer documented the fun moment when Adele wore his hat to shake it out while Bad Bunny played in the distance.

Check out the sweet TikTok below:

@chrislloydart

Adele at Bad Bunny in my pava hat 🇵🇷😅😅😅 #adele #badbunny

♬ original sound - Chris Lloyd Art

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Rich Paul Opened Up About Living With Adele

Paul, who was publicly linked to Adele for the first time in 2021, recently opened up about living with the legendary singer.

In an appearance on the Glass Half Full with Craig Melvin podcast, Paul joked that he's "the best singer in the house," PEOPLE reported.

Paul also noted that he wasn't extremely knowledgeable about Adele's music until the couple got together.

"Obviously, you can't help but to hear the monster hits. But no, not exactly," he said. "But obviously, you know I'm pretty on the pulse of a lot of different things. And so you know, some of the big songs, but I didn't know all the joints that I know now."

What Is Rich Paul's Favorite Song By
Adele?

Paul shared that he has a favorite song of Adele's from her album 30.

"My favorite song off of Adele's new album, 30, was ‘Hold On.' I felt like that record was, at that time, I felt like the world needed healing," Paul continued, noting that the song had a special connection for him because his mother, Minerva Martin, struggled with drug addiction when he was a child. "And I also felt like that song was speaking to my mom because you know, she went through so much in her life."

To hear "Hold On," listen below:

Related: Adele's Fiancé Opens up About Their Slow Burn to Falling in Love

The Steve Miller Band is behind some of the biggest rock hits in music. Take, for example, “Jet Airliner,” “Fly Like an Eagle,” “The Joker,” and “Take the Money and Run.” But, it was “Abracadabra,” released in May of 1982, that almost didn’t make the band’s impressive catalog had it not been for a chance encounter with the one and only, Diana Ross. 

Before the band recorded the psychedelic song, Steve Miller, who wrote the “Abracadabra” lyrics by himself, experienced a bit of writer’s block, according to American Songwriter. The outlet, which sourced Vulture, shared that Miller described the original layout of the song as having a gypsy-blues style arrangement set to “bad lyrics.” 

However, all that changed when he ran into Ross on a ski slope in Sun Valley, Idaho, which sparked a memory for him. The moment found him recalling the time the Steve Miller Band performed on the once-popular variety show Hullabaloo, on the same night as Ross and her musical group,The Supremes. 

“Abracadabra” was this piece of music that I wrote on this classical guitar. It was just something I’d sit and pick up the guitar ....I wrote the worst lyrics in the world…,” Miller further explained during an interview with AXS TV. “I went home, and I said to myself, ‘How would The Supremes do this song?’ And, I wrote ‘Abracadabra’ in 12 minutes. I just sat down, and it just all came together. I was thinking about that old black magic, and I went ‘Abracadabra’ and [I thought about] how The Supremes would go,' I want to reach out and grab ya.’”

Though the song came out quickly after Idaho, Miller had trouble getting his record label on board to release the song as a single. 

“I put it together and took it to Capitol [Records] (Steve Miller Band’s record label), and they hated it. They said it was awful and that I was finished,” Miller said, according to American Songwriter. 

Instead, the song was released internationally through Mercury Records, where it topped the charts in seven countries. That overseas success convinced Capitol to issue the track as the lead single from the band’s album of the same name. “Abracadabra” went on to reach No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart, where it remained for two consecutive weeks. The track has also become the Steve Miller Band’s biggest hit, spending 24 weeks in the Top 40, on the chart.

Related: 1991 Soft Rock Classic, Originally Rejected After Being Written in Under an Hour, Became a No. 1 Hit

With the release of Toy Story 5 came Taylor Swift's first country song in over 10 years.

And on Saturday, June 27 — weeks after dropping "I Knew It, I Knew You" from the successful film's soundtrack — Swift, 36, appeared virtually during Alan Jackson's farewell concert in Nashville.

But as the billionaire pop star appeared on-screen during the landmark show, Swift was met with boos and cheers during her special video message, according to media outlets including E! News.

Throughout the night, heartfelt videos from different chapters of Jackson's career played on the screens by the Nissan Stadium stage, USA Today reports, along with messages from country singers Keith Urban, Zac Brown and Kenny Chesney plus NASCAR drivers Jeff Gordon and Dale Earnhardt Jr.

Then came the announcement of "one more video," and the "Life of a Showgirl" singer's face appeared. "It's Taylor," she reportedly said to kick off the clip.

"I appreciate you so much for the ways that you have just treated me and the other artists and writers with such support and encouragement over the years," Swift continued. "And I am so excited for your show."

E! News reports that Swift went on to applaud Jackson’s song “Drive,” which she covered in 2008 for an episode of CMT: Giants.

“In that song, you paint such a picture and let us into the details of your life,” she added in part. “I know that was an example that was so good for me to see at a young age, an artist who's really just letting fans into the details of his life.”

Meanwhile, we’re still at the point where Swift and Travis Kelce haven’t officially announced wedding plans, but in lieu of all the NYC speculation, we’re another step closer to putting the pieces of the puzzle together. According to a report from The New York Times, a permit was filed to close streets around Madison Square Garden from July 2-4, and several Kansas City Chiefs players have allegedly reserved hotel rooms in Times Square around the same time.

More than five decades after its release, Neil Young’s 1975 epic “Cortez the Killer” continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest rock songs ever recorded despite never appearing on the Billboard Hot 100.

Released on Young’s 1975 album Zuma with longtime backing band Crazy Horse, the seven-and-a-half-minute track has earned lasting praise from critics, fellow musicians and fans. While many of Young’s best-known singles, including “Heart of Gold,” “Old Man,” and “Cinnamon Girl,” reached the Billboard Hot 100, “Cortez the Killer” never entered the chart.

Billboard records show Young has scored 11 Hot 100 entries, including the No. 1 hit “Heart of Gold” in 1972. However, “Cortez the Killer” was never released as a charting Hot 100 single, making its enduring reputation even more remarkable.

Singer-songwriter Neil Young performs on stage in 1976.

Photo by Chris Walter/WireImage)

Today, the song is widely recognized as one of the defining recordings in Young’s extensive catalog and remains a favorite among musicians and guitar fans.

Despite its lack of chart history, “Cortez the Killer” has received major recognition over the years.

The song was ranked No. 329 on Rolling Stone's list of the "500 Greatest Songs of All Time."

Young has said during concerts that he first wrote the song after studying history while attending high school in Winnipeg.

The lyrics draw inspiration from Hernán Cortés’ conquest of the Aztec Empire during the 16th century. However, Young has acknowledged that the song was never intended to be a historically accurate account.

Musically, the song became known for its slow-building guitar work, repeating chord progression, and Young’s signature extended solos. It was recorded in his favored double drop D tuning (DADGBD).

The original recording also ended unexpectedly after a mixing console circuit reportedly failed during production, cutting off additional instrumental sections and one final verse.

Producer David Briggs informed the band about the technical problem, and Young replied, per Far Out Magazine:

“I never liked that verse anyway.”

That missing verse resurfaced nearly five decades later during Young’s 2024 tour with Crazy Horse, giving fans a rare glimpse of material left off the original recording.

Kim Gordon and fellow artists keep the song’s legacy alive. In 2020, Gordon, co-founder of Sonic Youth, selected “Cortez the Killer” as one of her favorite songs during an appearance on BBC 6 Music.

Gordon praised the track alongside selections from punk and alternative artists, highlighting Young’s willingness to experiment with different musical styles throughout his career.

Her admiration for Young eventually led to a professional connection. In 1990, Young invited Sonic Youth to join him on his Ragged Glory Tour.

Reflecting on that experience in her memoir Girl in a Band, Gordon wrote:

“Opening for Neil was an amazing, eye-opening experience. We were all big longtime fans of his, and it felt like our first real brush with the mainstream.”

She also recalled how the tour changed public perceptions of the band.

“Of course, this prompted every music journalist to ask us, ‘So what’s it like to finally be in the mainstream?’ In reply, I can say that Neil Young tour proved that Sonic Youth actually wasn’t in the mainstream, and if we were, the mainstream hated us!”

Gordon added:

“Neil was always incredibly supportive of us.”

The song also carried political weight. According to Young’s notes for his Decade album, “Cortez the Killer” was banned in Spain during the rule of Francisco Franco because of its portrayal of Spanish colonialism. When Zuma was later released in Spain after Franco’s death, the song reportedly appeared under the title “Cortez, Cortez.”

Young remains one of rock music’s most respected artists. A two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, he has built a career spanning more than six decades with landmark albums including After the Gold Rush, Harvest, On the Beach, Rust Never Sleeps and Zuma.

His influence continues today through new projects. Just days ago, Young released the surprise concert film Corduroy Plants, based on performances with The Chrome Hearts, while also confirming work on a new studio album, Second Song.

More than 50 years after its release, “Cortez the Killer” stands as proof that chart positions do not always measure a song’s legacy. Though it never appeared on the Billboard Hot 100, it continues to rank among Neil Young’s most admired recordings and remains a lasting fixture in classic rock history.

Related: 1987 Rock Song, Written in 10 Days, Remains a Radio Classic 39 Years Later