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Amazon's 'Magical' Solar Wind Chimes Start at Just $8 in This Last-Minute Prime Day Sale

Fri, 06/26/2026 - 1:41pm

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Now that spring is in full swing and summer isn't far off, refreshing your outdoor space can make a big difference in how it feels day to day. You don’t need to invest in all new furniture to create a cozy setup, either. Sometimes, smaller decorative touches can completely shift the vibe. Solar-powered light-up wind chimes are a great example, adding both soft lighting and a bit of movement to your space.

One especially charming option is the Winzwon Solar Light Outdoor Wind Chimes. Right now, this bestseller is on sale for between $8 and $13 depending on the style. It’s an easy and affordable way to elevate your patio, balcony, or garden without breaking the bank.

Winzwon Solar Light Outdoor Wind Chimes, From $8 at Amazon 

Courtesy of Amazon

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The chimes measure about 20 inches long and 5 inches wide, making them noticeable without feeling bulky. They come in 8 different designs, including butterflies, hummingbirds, leaves, dragonflies, and moon and stars, so you can pick one that fits your aesthetic. The cheapest option is currently the chic black wind chime.

They’re designed to be low maintenance and easy to use. Just switch them on once, and they’ll charge during the day using sunlight. At night, they automatically light up, creating a soft glow. Charging typically takes 6 to 8 hours, and they’ll stay illuminated for about the same amount of time after dark.

The materials include a mix of metal and durable plastic built to handle outdoor conditions. They’re waterproof and designed to withstand rain and wind, so you can leave them outside without worrying about damage. They also come with two hook styles, making it easy to hang them from trees or fences.

These wind chimes aren’t just decorative; they also make thoughtful gifts for birthdays, graduations, and any other special occasion. They come packaged in a gift-ready box, and there are even non-light-up versions available specifically geared toward gifting for moms or grandmothers.

Related: Amazon’s 'Soft' $11 Lounge Set Is 'Perfect for Travel,' and It Comes in 10 Colors

One shopper raved: “They make the yard feel cozy and inviting. The solar feature is a huge plus — no batteries or cords to worry about — and they’ve held up perfectly through rain and wind.” 

Another described the wind chimes as “beautiful,” “magical,” and “absolutely stunning,” writing, “The colors are vibrant and shift smoothly, creating a peaceful glow in my yard.”

Whether you’re updating your own outdoor setup or looking for a small but thoughtful gift, the Winzwon Solar Light Outdoor Wind Chimes are a fun and eye-catching choice. And with Amazon’s current discount bringing the price as low as $10, it’s a great time to pick one up or grab a few for loved ones.

Will Ferrell Credits Molly Shannon for 'Saving' 'SNL' in the 1990s: 'I Hadn't Heard Laughter Like This'

Fri, 06/26/2026 - 1:33pm

Will Ferrell might remain among the most famous cast members in SNL history, but the fan-favorite comedian isn't shying away from acknowledging the talent of fellow '90s castmate Molly Shannon.

Appearing during the dedication ceremony to Shannon's new star on the Walk of Fame, the 58-year-old Ferrell spoke about how important Shannon's comedic capabilities were in securing SNL's, essentially "saving" the show from potential cancelation (via People magazine).

Opening his speech, Ferrell transported audience attendees back to the mid 1990s.

"The date is October 28, 1995," Ferrell said. "It is the fourth episode of the 1995-96 season of SNL. We are a brand new cast. It's only our fourth show. No one knows us, or if we're any good, or if anyone even likes the show anymore."

"It's coming out of a low ebb. 'Saturday Night Dead' were some of the headlines. We kind of don't know," the Anchorman star continued. "We're just out there throwing things up to see what's going to happen. But that night, the host is Gabriel Byrne. And that's the first time we get to see Mary Katherine Gallagher."

As longtime viewers are sure to remember, Mary Katherine Gallagher was Shannon's infamously off-beat teenager: a shy, accident-prone, cringe-inducing young woman with dreams of becoming a "superstar" in spite of her socially awkward personality.

"As I was changing, I'm hearing Molly perform the character and I'm hearing, and I'm feeling the stands shake with laughter," Ferrell said. "To the point where I thought, 'Oh my God, I haven't heard laughter like this so far, in the three shows we've done.' And it hit me. It was such an emotional moment because I remember, thinking, 'Oh. We're going to be okay.' That Molly has saved us, like, at least we have one funny character that will drive."

"The character was funny, was real. It was dark in moments. It was an outsider who dreamed, which I think is what you bring to so much of your work," the actor continued, turning his attention to Shannon. "It was in that moment, I'll never forget, but it literally was a catalyst for us to continue on. And it was a catalyst for you, and you've gone on to have and continue to have the most amazing career and everything you do."

'70s Rock Icon Announces New Album 59 Years After Beginning Career

Fri, 06/26/2026 - 1:32pm

Nearly six decades after launching her career, Ann Wilson is still finding new musical ground to explore.

The legendary Heart vocalist has announcedConsecrated Ground, a new collaborative album with psych-rock outfit Tripsitter. The record arrives Aug. 14 and is led by the newly released single, "I Will Not Be Coming Back," marking Wilson's latest chapter as she continues creating new music 59 years after first stepping onto the stage as a teenager.

Consecrated Ground blends heavy rock, psychedelia, blues and deeply personal storytelling while pairing Wilson's unmistakable voice with Tripsitter's expansive musicianship.

"The band is small and tight, and fiery, and that’s the way I like it," Wilson said in a 2024 interview. "I like it to be not cluttered, so the voice can sit on top and you can hear the words and you can actually understand what’s being said."

In that fashion, the new single introduces themes of liberation, transformation and self-determination, signaling another stylistic evolution for one of rock's most celebrated singers.

The announcement comes during an especially active period for Wilson.

Earlier this year, she returned to the road with Heart's acclaimed Royal Flush Tour following her recovery from cancer. She has also expanded her creative output beyond music through her podcast After Dinner Thinks, while a new documentary, In My Voice, is also in the works.

"This film is my story in my own words, told the way I've always wanted to tell it," Wilson told Louder. "It's about finding my voice, keeping it alive, and sharing the journey with the people who've been part of it all along."

For the first time, the documentary gave fans the opportunity to dive deeper into Wilson's story outside of the band made her a household name.

"I believe that in my career and in my life, people have a really hard time separating me from Heart, and you know, you can’t blame them," Wilson told Rolling Stone. "It's been my life's work. But this is an opportunity for them to know me apart from Heart, apart from music, even — just the things that have happened to me and the journeys I've been through now as an older woman."

Wilson first began performing professionally in the late 1960s before rising to international fame with Heart in the 1970s. Alongside sister Nancy Wilson, she helped break barriers for women in hard rock with classics including "Magic Man," "Crazy on You," "Barracuda," "Alone" and "These Dreams." Over the decades, Heart has sold more than 35 million albums worldwide and earned induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2013.

While Heart remains her best-known project, Wilson has continued to pursue solo work throughout her career, embracing collaborations that allow her to explore new musical directions. Her partnership with Tripsitter has already produced multiple releases, with the band's chemistry giving Wilson a fresh creative outlet while showcasing the powerhouse voice that has defined generations of rock fans.

With Consecrated Ground, Wilson is proving that artistic curiosity has never been confined to one era. Nearly 60 years after beginning her career, the Rock & Roll Hall of Famer continues to push forward, demonstrating that one of rock’s most iconic voices is still writing the next chapter of an extraordinary legacy.

Related: 1975 Rock Classic Became a Timeless Love Song, Even Though the Band Disliked It

Michelle Pfeiffer Reveals Why She Felt 'Humiliated' After Her 'Grease 2' Audition 

Fri, 06/26/2026 - 1:29pm

Michelle Pfeiffer is looking back at how she got the role of Stephanie Zinone in Grease 2. She reveals that the auditioning process left her feeling less than ideal for the role and "really embarrassed."

Grease 2 was the standalone sequel to John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John's 1978 musical classic. Four decades after the film was released in June 1982, Pfeiffer reveals she didn't expect to get the role of Stephanie, and with no real dancing or singing experience, her audition wasn't smooth sailing.

In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, she said she had "zero expectations" and remembers her agent sending her to the audition just to get some experience. After all, Grease 2 became the actor's first leading role of her career after appearing in minor TV and film roles in the 1970s.

"It was such a cattle call — there were actors and dancers and singers everywhere hanging out, coming in and out auditioning, and there were very thin walls. All the other actors waiting to go in could hear your reading, could hear your singing," she explained. "I was not a singer. I was taking voice classes to really improve my stage voice at the recommendation of my acting coach. And I certainly was not a dancer."

With her singing capabilities not well-developed, Pfeiffer still had to prove she could dance the part. Sadly, Pfeiffer wasn't an expert in that department either and recalls how it was just like the movies. Actors would form lines, with each set dancing the part before moving on to the next group.

"I kept moving further to the back, so I ended up in the very last line and stumbled my way through because I couldn't remember the choreography," Pfeiffer said. "I left with my tail between my legs, feeling so humiliated."

Despite the blunders, Pfeiffer still made an impression and remembers Pat Birch's assistant running after her across the Paramount lot. While the actor was utterly embarrassed, she was informed to come back the next day. While Grease 2 wasn't a blockbuster hit like the original, Pfeiffer admits that it's a favorite among a "certain generation," with many recalling her standout performance in the song "Cool Rider."

Related: 1986 Classic, Created for One of the ‘Best Fantasy’ Movies of All Time, Became a Hard Rock Anthem

Bunnie Xo Compares Jelly Roll Divorce To Being Freed From Jail

Fri, 06/26/2026 - 1:15pm

Bunnie Xo has compared her marriage to estranged husband Jelly Roll to prison.

 In a new clip from her Dumb Blonde podcast, the 46-year-old bombshell joked that she had just left a "10-year bid."

Entertainment Weekly reports that singer Jelly Roll filed for divorce in Williamson County, Tenn., on May 18, citing irreconcilable differences. The split shocked many as the couple had appeared to be a close unit until the announcement.

Related: Something Happened at Jelly Roll’s House Amid Divorce News

On the recent podcast, Bunnie Xo explained that she has been receiving a lot of DMs since splitting from her husband. She read out one eye-catching proposal.

“Hey, pretty lady, I'm about to get out of prison on a 10-year bid next year," she read. "Please let me go out and have a time with you. That's all I ask. I promise it will be worth it. Hit me back.”

“So listen. I don't mind that the dude's in prison," Bunnie, whose real name is Alisa Andrea DeFord, quipped. “What I don't like is he said, 'let me go out and have a time with you.'"

She added: "So you're just expecting me to put out on this first date. Which…”

“I mean after 10 years he might need it," her co-host Meme Shahan joked.

"I just got out of a 10-year bid too b------, what are we talking about," she added.

Bunnie has also said that she is encouraging women to jump into her exes' DMs and stay out of her own. "First of all, shout-out to all the women. I told so many girls to go in J's DMs, which you know, have at it. Good luck with that," she said during Friday's episode of her podcast.

"And if they did message J, they copy and paste or screenshot the message that they sent him. And I'm just like, 'No, all of you girls are just so f--king sweet. Like, thank you so much. I love you guys.' But they're just like pouring into me and they're like just everybody's just like, 'Dude, I don't want to be in his DMs. I want to be in yours,'" she added.

Bunnie Xo and Jelly Roll met in 2015 backstage at a Las Vegas show and wed in August 2016.

Related: Jelly Roll Releases Uplifting New Song, His First Since Bunnie Xo Divorce

Disney Makes Major Update to Pirates of the Caribbean – But Fans Are Less Than Thrilled with Final Results: 'I Hate It'

Fri, 06/26/2026 - 1:13pm

Disney has always sporadically updated its rides to reflect the increasingly high demand of its guests, ensuring that no single attraction ever falls outdated when compared to newer rides being installed at the company's iconic theme parks.

More recently, Disney shared a first look at a new change it's currently installing inside its historic Pirates of the Caribbean, the legendary water-based ride that takes visitors on an adventure-filled journey to the Caribbean during the Golden Age of Piracy.

In particular, the company will officially be replacing a long-standing skeletal pirate seen in the beginning of the ride with a new Audio-Animatronic figure that relies on both mechanical movement and projection mapping facial expressions.

As seen from a first look at the new update, the figure in question is shown alternating back and forth between its iconic skeletal appearance and a fully-rendered digital face. Once the wide-eyed pirate picks up a piece of cursed Aztec treasure, he transforms into the frightening skeletal form, reminiscent of the transformation the villainous crew of the Black Pearl experience in 2001's Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl.

As imaginative as the new changes might be, many fans shared their disappointment at the update on social media, believing the change disrupted the overall progression of the ride's narrative.

"I fear this doesn't match the vibes of the scene nor the attraction as a whole," one user commented on Instagram. "It's a very neat effect, but it should not be on this ride."

"The static skeleton is timeless and really didn't need to be changed," another fan wrote. "This looks hammy and something out of the early 2000s."

Other fans were even more blunt in their assessment of the change, with one account writing, "You just crushed my soul, Disney, by ruining my favorite ride. Change it back."

1992 Classic Rock Hit, That Took Almost 10 Years To Create, Had a $1.5 Million Video

Fri, 06/26/2026 - 1:12pm

Hearing that a music video would cost $1.5 million back in 1991 was wild, and yet “November Rain” by Guns N’ Roses hit that amount.

The video, which would become Part 1 of an unofficial trilogy, became one of the most expensive music videos at the time. Yet, the record label, Geffen Records, didn’t bat an eyelid when it came to creating it.

By this point in time, Guns N’ Roses had made the record label millions. With more than 500,000 copies of the albums “Use Your Illusion I” and “Use Your Illusion II,” which were released simultaneously in 1991, in the first two hours of release, the idea of creating a million-dollar video wasn’t all that wild. In the end, those two albums would go on to sell more than 35 million copies worldwide, so of course, Geffen was going to back the band with any of Axl Rose’s wild ideas.

This was also at a time when music videos were still highlights of record releases. Creating cinematic experiences was a high priority for bands and record labels.

The budget for the video went toward building a custom, makeshift church. That was just for Slash’s iconic guitar solo, which is still considered one of the best guitar solos of all time. That build cost $150,000 on its own.

Then there was the full symphony orchestra, the theater, and 1,500 background extras, and the extra camera crew and helicopters to get the job done. It would go on to be the start of a trilogy of videos, although by the time of the third video, the plan had to shift a little due to a break-up, and so Rose ended up swimming with dolphins.

It took a long time to get to the point of the music video, though! Rose worked on “November Rain” for eight to nine years before he was ready to release it to the world. 

Guitarist Tracii Guns once shared that Rose had been working on the melody for the track from 1983, and Guns stated, “Way back then. It was the only thing he knew how to play, but it was his. He’d go, ‘Someday this song is gonna be really cool,’ and I’d go, ‘It’s cool now.’ ‘But it’s not done,’ you know, he used to say. And, like, anytime we’d be at a hotel or anywhere, there’d be a piano; he’d just kinda play that music. And I’d go, ‘When are you gonna finish that already’, you know? And he’d go, ‘I don’t know what to do with it. I need Moody’s help.’”

The demo itself clocked in at 18 minutes when it was first created, and Rose brought it to the band in 1986. However, he wouldn’t compromise on the full orchestra, so because of that and “Sweet Child O’ Mine” already being on the album for “Appetite for Destruction,” it wasn’t included. Rose wanted the perfect track, and so, it had to wait until 1991, when it was include on “Use Your Illusion I” and then released as a single in 1992.

Why C-Drama Fans Are Excited for Song Weilong's 'Love for You'

Fri, 06/26/2026 - 1:07pm

If you jumped on the Pursuit of Jade and Zhang Linghe bandwagon over the last few months and are looking for your next CDrama binge, look no further. Not only is there a new Zhang Linghe series set to premiere, but another series from an equally "It" CDrama hottie, Shine on Me's Song Weilong is rumored to premiere within days of Zhang's new series, Overdo. Both are period pieces set in different eras — Overdo is set in the Chinese Republic era of the 1920s and 30s while Song's Love for You is set in the more modern day era of the 1990s.

Let's take a look at what we know so far about Love for You.


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What is Love for You about?

Love for You is a romance that spans across a couple decades. Think of it as an Asian version of The Notebook. In Love for You, Chen Yi (Song Weilong) and Miao Jing (Zhang Jingyi) meet as kids. At first, it's a typical boy-girl, love-hate dynamic but after Chen Yi is injured and Miao Jing cares for him, things start to change. Unfortunately, tragedy strikes and both children are left without their main parent, leaving them to depend on one another for survival.

It's only during their college years that Miao Jing confesses her feelings for Chen Yi. After he becomes a key witness in an arson case, he sends her away in a bid to keep her safe. When they reunite years later, he now owns a billiards hall in town and she is now an auditor. Unfortunately, the company she works for is owned by a man who seems to have been involved in the arson case Chen Yi was a witness to years before.

Is Love for You based on other material?

Yes. Love for You is based on the novel, Ye Gou Gu Tou (野狗骨头) by the author Xiu Tu Cheng. The title translates to "Wild Dog Bones." In relation to the characters in the book, Chen Yi is the dog and Miao Jing is the bone.

Who stars in Love for You? Song Weilong in Love for You

Mango TV

Song Weilong

Song Weilong recently won the People's Choice Award in the Male Category for his lead role in Shine on Me. The awards show, which recognizes leaders in digital and streaming content, is held yearly in Busan, South Korea. Song melted the nation's heart when he accepted his award not only in Chinese, but also in Korean.

Zhang Jingyi in Love for You

Mango TV

Zhang Jingyi

Zhang is best known for her roles in Fall in Love, Blossoms in Adversity, and Lighter and the Princess, the latter role launching her to global recognition as the female lead in this coming-of-age romance opposite Arthur Chen.

When does Love for You premiere?

Love for You has a rumored international premiere date of Sunday, July 5, 2026, but check back here for updates.

How do I watch Love for You with English subtitles?

Love for You will be available to stream in the US on Rakuten Viki and Mango TV. English subtitles and other languages are also available on both platforms.

How many episodes are there in Love for You?

There are 32 episodes in the Love for You series.

Is there a trailer for Love for You?

Yes, check out the official trailer here or take a look below.

Check out images from Love for You

Take a look at some select images from Lover for You in the gallery below.

Love for YouMango TV Song Weilong in Love for You

Mango TV

Zhang Jingyi in Love for You

Mango TV

Song Weilong and Zhang Jingyi in Love for You

Mango TV

Song Weilong and Zhang Jingyi in Love for You

Mango TV

Song Weilong and Zhang Jingyi in Love for You

Mango TV

Song Weilong in Love for You

Mango TV

Zhang Jingyi and Song Weilong in Love for You

Mango TV

Song Weilong and Zhang Jingyi in Love for You

Mango TV

Song Weilong and Zhang Jingyi in Love for You

Mango TV

Alison Arngrim Reflects on Why 'Little House on the Prairie' Was 'Like Therapy' for Michael Landon

Fri, 06/26/2026 - 1:01pm

Alison Arngrim, who rose to stardom as Nellie Oleson on Little House on the Prairie, is opening up about why the show was so personal for Michael Landon.

Known for her snobby attitude and barrel curls, Nellie made life hard for our favorite girl, sweet Laura Ingalls. But behind the scenes, Arngrim got to see how the show was "like therapy" for Landon, who played Charles “Pa” Ingalls.

"This show was so personal for him. Little House on the Prairie, the show was personal for him," Arngrim, 64, said in a recent episode of Little House on the Prairie 50th Anniversary Pod. "There's endless episodes and endless moments where Michael is like, as I said, it was therapy. He'd find a way to get paid to go to therapy. He was working out endless personal issues and childhood conflicts."

"And he was just working them all out in front of all of America," Arngrim continued. "And it was brilliant. And it worked."

Check out Arngrim's interview below:

Arngrim also added that the show served as a reflection of what Landon was going through in adulthood, as well.

“Michael Landon himself, his home life was not happy,” Arngrim said, PEOPLE reported. “He had a miserable childhood, and he talked openly about how difficult his parents were. He was looking for the kind of real family, real love, and connection that the show exemplified.”

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What Does Arngrim Say About Michael Landon in Her Book?

Photo by Bettmann on Getty Images

In her fascinating book, Confessions of a Prairie Bitch: How I Survived Nellie Oleson and Learned to Love Being Hated, Arngrim opened up about working on the set of the beloved frontier show. She also discussed how Landon was both a respectful and stern boss to the many child actors who filled the set.

“He respected me,” Arngrim wrote. “Respect is something very hard to come by for child actors. They are often treated as dumb animals or props, objects to be moved about in service of the plot or the other actors.”

View this post on Instagram What is Alison Arngrim Up to These Days?

Arngrim has parlayed her experience into a one-woman show, appropriately titled Confessions of a Prairie Bitch. In a recent interview with the Chicago Sun-Times, she explained why people are so eager for her to resurrect the iconic character.

“It started because Nellie and Mrs. Oleson (her mom on the show) are high camp,” Arngrim said. “You cannot get campier than Mrs. Oleson.” Now that’s the truth!

For a delicious moment of that Little House campiness, here’s one of the show’s best moments:

When Does the New Little House on the Prairie Premiere?

The Little House on the Prairie reboot premieres on Netflix on July 9, 2026. The show stars Elvis actor Luke Bracey as Charles “Pa” Ingalls, Alice Halsey as Laura, and Skywalker Hughes as Mary.

“Part hopeful family drama, part epic survival tale, and part origin story of the American West, this fresh adaptation of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s iconic semi-autobiographical Little House books offers a kaleidoscopic view of the struggles and triumphs of those who shaped the frontier,” the Netflix synopsis reads.

Check out the official teaser trailer below:

'80s 'Queen of Funk' Set for One-Night-Only Show at America250

Fri, 06/26/2026 - 12:47pm

Chaka Khanis joining the celebrations for America's 250th.

The "Queen of Funk" will perform at the special one-night show at America’s Block Party Concert benefiting Giving 4th.

America250, the only national, nonpartisan organization charged by Congress to help lead the celebration and commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, announced that it is adding the iconic '80s legend to the lineup for the historic event.

Joining the 11-time Grammy-winning artist and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductee is Broadway sensation Anthony Ramos. In 2015, he originated the dual role of John Laurens and Philip Hamilton in Hamilton, which earned him a Grammy.

Taking place at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on July 4, it will be a star-studded evening, as Khan and Ramos will join the previously announced headliners, The Smashing Pumpkins and Chris Stapleton.

“America’s Block Party in Los Angeles is bringing together an extraordinary lineup of artists
whose music has shaped generations and continues to resonate with audiences today,” said
Rosie Rios, Chair of America250, in a press release. “We’re honored to have Chaka Khan and Anthony Ramos join this historic celebration as we commemorate America’s 250th anniversary through music, community, and a shared spirit of giving.”

Queen Latifah is serving as host for the event, exclusively speaking with Parade to reveal what fans can expect from the Fourth of July party.

“I think [America250 will be] a good time to be a good person, do good things, look out for each other [and] be good neighbors to each other on a huge holiday that we all celebrate,” she told us. “This is actually a place to not just party, but party for a good cause. Party for a good reason with people you want to dance with and hang with, and help out other people at the same time.”

And she promised that "there will be hip hop."

The pre-show will start at 6:00 p.m., with live performances kicking off at 6:30 p.m. EDT.

The Block Party Village will be open to ticket holders to enjoy before the concert, which will include interactive activations, food and beverages, live entertainment and more.

Giving 4th is “America250’s new national initiative calling on all Americans to add something new to their celebration: the act of giving back through pledges for charitable donations,” the press release notes.

Tickets are available for $17.76at Ticketmaster, with proceeds after fees supporting Feeding America.

'The Bear' Pays Tribute To Rob Reiner In Series Finale

Fri, 06/26/2026 - 12:46pm

The series finale of The Bear featured a simple but beautiful tribute to beloved filmmaker Rob Reiner.

In one of his final roles before his passing, Reiner appeared as a restaurant consultant, Albert, in The Bear season four. While he no longer appeared, his character was referenced often, specifically revolving around his mentorship of line cook Ebra, who was played by Edwin Lee Gibson.

In the finale, Ebra pitches his and Albert’s business plan to Carmy, who is played by Jeremy Allen White. He immediately goes all in because of his trust in Ebra.

“Albert, we are in business,” Ebra says in a phone call to Reiner’s character. “It’s perfect. I will have all the documents; email it to you immediately. Anything else I can do?”

Albert then starts talking, but it's not heard. Ebra then simply responds, "As you wish.”

It was a nod to one of Reiner's most famous films, The Princess Bridewith that being the iconic catchphrase of Westley.

In a past interview with USA Today, White reflected on getting to work with Reiner.

“We all got to spend a little bit of time with him,” the Shameless actor said. "And he was incredibly generous, incredibly kind. Like so, game and curious, committed. He was really happy to be there.

“I’ve been really lucky, I’ve met a lot of people I admire now. And sometimes, you meet those heroes, and it’s disappointing and you wish you hadn’t—and that’s just the opposite case with Rob.”

Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, were found murdered in their Brentwood home in December 2025. Their son, Nick Reiner, was arrested later that same day for their murders. He was charged with two counts of first-degree murder with a special circumstance of multiple murders and has pleaded not guilty.

Chase Stokes Details Outer Banks Season 5 Outlook Ahead of 2026 Premiere

Fri, 06/26/2026 - 12:34pm

Over the last six years, leading man Chase Stokes has portrayed the beloved John B. Routledge on Netflix's hit original series Outer Banks. As the cast gears up for the season 5 premiere on August 20, the actor spoke in an exclusive interview with Parade about what fans can expect from the closing chapter of the series.

John B. was Stokes's breakout role, catapulting him from small television appearances into undeniable mainstream success. Since wrapping up filming in December, the actor has had time to process his departure from the character—the glue holding the treasure-hunting Pogues together.

"I think every character kind of stays with you a little bit, so I don't know if you ever fully get the opportunity to say goodbye," Stokes reflected. "The way that we shoot the show, it's so fast, so it sort of just happens and you're done. I'm just super thankful to be a part of something that has been able to stick around as long as it has, and it's got such a near and dear place in my heart. I always say it's never a full 'goodbye' because he's still sort of deep-rooted within me."

Drew Starkey, Chase Stokes, Madison Bailey, Carlacia Grant, Austin North, Rudy Pankow, Madelyn Cline and Jonathan Daviss attend the 'Outer Banks' Season 4 Charleston World Premiere on October 08, 2024 in Charleston, South Carolina.

Jeff Hahne/Getty Images for Netflix

After the official teaser trailer for season 5 dropped last week, fans are more excited than ever to experience the conclusion of the Pogues' stories. Season 4 left off on a devastating note with the death of central character JJ Maybank. The newest clips share a brief look into the aftermath of the tragedy, featuring revenge, arrests and explosions.

Stokes revealed that many scenes he filmed for the season included help from his stunt double, Alexander Jennings. While it is typical Outer Banks fashion to include high-stakes action scenes, this might be the most action-heavy season yet. The actor admitted the new installment will be an escalation from Season 1's boat-driving stunts, preparing viewers for some pretty "epic shit."

"There's a lot of action sequences this year, and I have become very close with my stunt double over the course of this show—he's worked with me on other things as well," Stokes said. "We got to do some pretty epic shit. Being able to do more of that at a higher level, versus just driving boats in the first season, is pretty cool."

While the teaser looks a bit daunting, Stokes reassured fans that the end of the show will be a satisfying conclusion for longtime viewers.

"It's the ending that everybody is gonna want," Stokes said. "Anybody who's tuned into this show knows that there's a lot of chaos and a lot of high-heart-rate moments. So to land the plane in the ways that we did, I'm very proud of."

Captain Morgan Sliced's new Colada Style Variety Pack photographed for press release. Captain Morgan Sliced Partnership

Stokes recently partnered with Captain Morgan Sliced to spotlight their newest Piña Colada Style Variety Pack. This weekend, the actor will be sailing down to Daytona Beach to help host a launch event at the Coconut Retreat in Florida.

Fans 21+ are welcome to join Stokes for an immersive tropical experience, offering event-goers the chance to pair their relaxing summer getaways with the new flavors. The new launch expands consumer idea of what a colada drink can be, infusing the collection with classic summer flavors like Strawberry, Mango and Passionfruit.

"Summertime is arguably everybody's favorite time of the year. It's where school's out and the weather's good," Stokes said. "My mentality right now, especially after coming off a show that has been going on for so long, is that I'm really trying to relax and reset. Captain Morgan has encapsulated that so well with their brand. It will be a fun event in Daytona Beach, which is kind of in my own backyard, and helping them bring a new product to life is an awesome collaboration. It was a no-brainer."

Fans can RSVP for the June 27 event at this link. Additional information about the celebration and the new collection can be found on Captain Morgan's official Instagram.

Looking Ahead: Stokes's Upcoming Roles & Projects

Beyond the fifth season of Outer Banks, the star is looking ahead to upcoming projects. Stokes was recently cast as Ronnie Whitlock in the AMC NASCAR drama Thunder Road. The show begins filming this summer and is slated for release next year.

After being approached by showrunners Cliff Roberts and Taylor Elmore, Stokes knew this would be the perfect next step. Ronnie's character mirrors some of the qualities the actor looks for when taking on new roles—a conflicted individual on a road to self-discovery in the rapidly changing world of NASCAR.

"I wanted to do something that felt different. It felt like it was in a new world, but a world that people could find a connection and relation to," Stokes explained. "[Ronnie] is a character who's battling a lot of demons and trying to find his place in a huge family dynamic of this dynasty in the NASCAR world, and he's sort of on the sides of it. I always love the people who don't feel like they fit in and don't know where they fit in, watching them go on the journey of self-discovery and finding out what their purpose is."

Chase Stokes attends Netflix Tudum 2025 at The Kia Forum on May 31, 2025 in Inglewood, California.

Nicole/Getty Images for Netflix

As for non-acting endeavors, Stokes revealed he is actively working on his first directorial project. He began brainstorming for the film after moving to L.A. Since then, he has been working behind the scenes to bring the project to life, handling everything from development to financing.

"I'm gonna direct my first film next year. It kind of started as an idea in my brain when I first moved to LA. To go from that to hiring a writer and getting it fully financed, and to just be behind the camera and not acting in it, has always been a dream of mine," he shared. "I'm sort of dabbling in all these different areas of the industry, which feels really satisfying and gratifying to know that the ideas that I've been playing with are those that people are willing and interested in investing in."

It is clear Stokes's career in the film industry is only just beginning. The actor proclaims that his ultimate goal is to bring compelling stories to life from every area of Hollywood. Although his primary experience has been in front of the lens, his aspirations span past acting gigs into every facet of the filmmaking process.

"It's been kind of nice to not just jump into something immediately, especially after doing a show like Outer Banks where everyone is asking, 'What's he gonna do next?'" Stokes said. "I've just taken some time to really dip my toes into different areas of the entertainment industry, encapsulating the idea of being a storyteller—not just in front of the camera, but from every different angle."

Related: Where the 'Off Campus' Crew Would Spend Their Off-Season

Beloved 'Stranger Things' Duo Reuniting For New Show After Reports of On-Set Friction

Fri, 06/26/2026 - 12:34pm

After spending nearly a decade playing the found-father-daughter duo on Stranger Things, Millie Bobby Brown and David Harbour are officially teaming up again.

Netflix announced that the former co-stars will reunite in an untitled spy drama from Emmy-winning writer Jack Thorne, the creator behind Adolescence. The series comes from A24 and has already received a straight-to-series order.

Brown and Harbour will once again play daughter and father, though under very different circumstances than Eleven and Jim Hopper.

In the new series, Harbour stars as Matt Wolfe, a disgraced former FBI agent turned security expert whose estranged daughter Rebecca, played by Brown, disappears while working as an FBI agent herself. Forced back into a world he thought he'd left behind, Wolfe must navigate an intelligence landscape that has changed dramatically while racing to find his daughter.

"Jack Thorne's ability to find the deeply human story inside a thriller is unmatched," Netflix Head of Scripted Series Jinny Howe said in a statement. "Watching Millie Bobby Brown and David Harbour reunite, this time as estranged father and daughter on opposite sides of a crisis, is something audiences are going to love."

The project reunites two of Netflix's biggest stars. Brown became an international breakout as Eleven on Stranger Things, earning two Emmy nominations before going on to headline Netflix hits including Enola Holmes, Damsel and The Electric State. Harbour earned Emmy nominations for his portrayal of police chief Hopper and has since appeared in Marvel films including Black Widow and Thunderbolts.

The announcement also comes just weeks after Harbour publicly addressed reports about tension between the pair during production of the final season of Stranger Things.

Speaking to Variety, Harbour said the situation had been blown out of proportion.

"It was just a simple rupture-and-repair thing that, once we cleared everybody out of the way and talked to each other, we're fine. … We adore each other and always have," said the 51-year-old actor.

Harbour also hinted at future collaborations with Brown, telling the outlet, "You'll see more of me and Millie. Ten years wasn't enough. There is a special bond there. I love her. She loves me."

Brown echoed those sentiments, saying their relationship evolved over the years into a creative partnership and that working alongside Harbour throughout Stranger Things was an experience she will "always remember and value."

For fans who weren't ready to say goodbye to Hopper and Eleven, this reunion offers another chance to watch Brown and Harbour share the screen, this time trading supernatural monsters for an international spy thriller.

Related: 'Stranger Things' Star Is Headlining Netflix's Creepy New Horror Project

1972 One-Hit Wonder Took Under 30 Minutes to Write — and Is Still a Soft Rock Love Classic

Fri, 06/26/2026 - 12:32pm

Despite finding success in the early '70s, Gallery's 1972 soft-rock tune "Nice to Be With You" wasn't a long-time radio hit. According to American Songwriter, the song, off the band's self-titled album, secured the No. 4 Billboard Hot 100 spot the year it was released, making it Gallery's most commercially popular hit.

The publication recently denoted the song's initial popularity by including "Nice to Be With You" on a list of "3 niche songs from 1972 that every 70s teen seemed to know by heart," which also featured '70s classics like Gilbert O’Sullivan's “Alone Again (Naturally)” and Bill Withers' "Use Me." American Songwriter complimented "Nice to Be With You" for its tender lyrics evoking the feelings of young love.

Jim Gold Said He Doesn't Remember What Inspired Him to Write 'Nice To Be With You'

The vocalist of Gallery, Jim Gold, discussed writing "Nice to Be With You" during an interview with Classic Band.

"To tell you the truth, it was one of them things. It came to me during the day when I was working. My mind was always kind of wandering 'cause my job was really boring. I don't really remember if the melody came first. Maybe it did. Maybe the chorus. I can't say for sure. It was really so long ago," said the musician, now 79.

He clarified that he believes his wife "was probably the inspiration for a lot of things [he] did," including writing the hit.

Gold also told the publication that he penned the song in record speed.

"By the time I home [sic] it was already formulated in my head. I ran in the door, picked up my acoustic guitar, wrote it down and that was it. I'd say fifteen minutes, twenty minutes," said Gold.

In addition, Gold said that his bandmates weren't initially overly impressed with "It's Nice To Be With You."

"When I first played it for them guys, they thought well yeah, it's OK. They kind of brushed over it. When we actually got in to record it and when it was coming together and [producer Mike Theodore] put the bells and different things, we really didn't know what the Gallery sound was going to be," said the vocalist during the Classic Band interview.

Mickey Rourke Seen Toothless Three Months After being Evicted From his Los Angeles Home

Fri, 06/26/2026 - 12:31pm

Roughly three months after the highly publicized eviction from his Los Angeles residence, passer by caught a brief glimpse at Mickey Rourke walking his dogs in the streets of LA.

According to new photos shared by The New York Post, the 73-year-old actor looked slightly disheveled, dressed in a gray hoodie, faded jeans and a pair of mirrored sunglasses.

Even more noticeably, Rourke was seen missing several prominent teeth in the phots shared by The Post, as well as sporting dark stains around his mouth that has left online observers perplexed.

Per The Post, Rourke's striking physical transformation might largely stem from his earlier career as a boxer, contributing to significant facial trauma that likely has only worsened due to the continued challenges in Rourke's personal life.

“He has had some trauma to his face. And that trauma over the years has definitely affected the dental support structures,” Dr. Jason Auerbach told The Post.

Rourke has shared several stories over the years about his facial injuries and the subsequent surgeries he's been forced to undergo.

Evaluating the severity of Rourke's potential boxing injuries, Auerbach pointed to the lasting damage facial injuries could have years after a punch to the jaw.

“Oftentimes you fracture not just the area where the direct blow was, but you fracture … the other side,” the doctor explained. “You have significant damage to the support structures of the teeth, which of course then affect the teeth.”

Along with the physical wear and tear that comes from healing from such an injury, Auerbach also mentioned that stress might speed up the process known as "bone resorption," causing a decrease in calcium absorption, which in turn leads to bones weakening and potentially leading to teeth falling out.

Auerbach also mentioned, “The more you clench and grind the teeth, the more bone loss around those teeth that you have, the more wear and tear of the teeth you have. You could fracture teeth."

HGTV Fans Might Not Like What David Bromstad Said About Designing Again

Fri, 06/26/2026 - 12:27pm

HGTV designer David Bromstad just shared an unexpected update about his future that fans of his makeover shows won't want to hear.

Bromstad, who quickly became a fan favorite, recently revealed that his December 2025 special, My Lottery Dream Home: David's Happy Ending, is "probably the first and last time I'll be designing in front of America," he revealed to Barron Designs.

The special followed Bromstad as he transformed his Florida home into the fairytale retreat of his dreams after a four-year renovation. The project was creatively inspiring, but also exhausting.

"It's been so long since I've done any sort of design in front of America, right?" he shared. "And I'm an artist, you know? I love my job with Lottery but I am a creative through and through. So it was really nice to be able to flex my muscles a little bit."

View this post on Instagram

Unfortunately, a massive storm destroyed all of Bromstad's progress, putting him and his team back to square one. That's when he revealed in an Instagram Live with Ross Matthews that he turned to some "unhealthy behaviors" where he started "using substances."

“It was a difficult process,” Bromstad shared with Matthews (via People). “The house reflected what was really going on with me personally.” Eventually, he checked himself into a “trauma-based rehab” to “clean up my act.”

Since then, Bromstad says he's worked to create more balance in his life by setting healthier boundaries. “I’ve had to like suck back in and kind of put boundaries up. And so saying ‘no’ to people has been this really unique journey that I’ve taken since getting sober,” he said. “It’s been a necessary journey and it's been such an incredible thing to see people [when] I go, ‘I’m not doing pictures right now, but I would love to have a conversation with you.’ ”

Now, months later, Bromstad says he's focused on moving forward with a new perspective. "[After] working on my mental health, I was like, 'I have nothing to prove to anybody but myself,'" he said. "So, my design is a sneak peek into me as a human. Like, I'm unique. I'm different. I'm relatable, but also, like, completely strange, in the most weird and wonderful way, you know? And that's my house!"

Pro Wrestling Star Dead at 44

Fri, 06/26/2026 - 12:19pm

Wrestling star Joe Doering died at the age of 44 following a battle with brain cancer that spanned more than a decade.

The news was shared by Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling on social media.

"At 9:13 a.m. today, June 26, our brother Joe Doering passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family," the statement read. "Though his time on this earth lasted only 44 years, Joe packed a thousand years’ worth of living into every one of them."

"Joe is survived by his beloved wife, Lindsay, his family, and leaves behind countless friends and devoted fans around the world who will forever remember his strength, courage, and spirit," they concluded. "Rest in peace, Joe. You will never be forgotten."

On June 22, an update was posted on Doering's GoFundMe page, sharing the news that he was going into hospice. Then, just four days later, the news of his passing was also posted on the website.

Many paid tribute to Doering following the news.

"AEW and the wrestling world mourn the passing of Joe Doering. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family, friends and fans during this difficult time," the All Elite Wrestling page posted.

"We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of JoeDoering. A commanding in-ring performer and a wonderful person, he will never be forgotten. We offer our deepest condolences to his fans, his friends and his family," TNA Wrestling shared.

"Rest easy big man, love ya brother," wrestler Jake Doyle commented.

"Rest in peace, Joe Doering. A absolute monster in the ring 2x AJPW Triple Crown Champion, tag titles with legends like Muta & Suwama. Battled brain cancer for a decade like a true warrior and never stopped fighting. Gone way too soon at 44," a fan expressed.

Doering made his professional wrestling debut in 2004, going on to appear in All Japan Pro Wrestling, where he was a two-time Triple Crown Heavyweight Champion. From 2005 to 2022, he was also a part of Total Nonstop Action Wrestling. Doering was a two-time Impact World Tag Team Champion.

Iconic 1974 Hit Is Climbing the Charts Again Thanks to a Hit TV Finale

Fri, 06/26/2026 - 12:17pm

More than 50 years after introducing listeners to the "regular crowd" at a neighborhood bar, one of Billy Joel's most beloved songs is enjoying another chart moment.

"Piano Man" has climbed to No. 1 on Billboard's Top TV Songs chart (powered by Tunefin, a Songtradr company), after its memorable use in the series finale of Amazon Prime Video's The Boys. The song topped the May 2026 ranking after appearing in the eighth and final episode of the show's fifth season, earning 19.1 million official U.S. streams and 1,000 downloads during the month, according to Luminate.

The achievement is especially remarkable considering "Piano Man" never reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100 during its original chart run. Released as a single in 1974 from Joel's breakthrough album of the same name, it peaked at No. 25 before gradually becoming the signature song of his career.

Inspired by Joel's own experiences performing under the alias "Bill Martin" at a Los Angeles piano bar while trying to escape an unfavorable recording contract, the song tells the stories of the regular patrons who gathered each Saturday night. Joel has said the colorful characters, including bartender John, waitress Davy and "real estate novelist" Paul, were all based on real people he met during that period.

Over the decades, "Piano Man" has become one of the defining songs of the singer-songwriter era. It was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2013 and added to the Library of Congress' National Recording Registry in 2015 for its cultural, historic and artistic significance. Today, it has been certified eight-times platinum in the United States and has surpassed 1 billion streams on Spotify.

Billboard's monthly Top TV Songs chart blends music identification data with streaming, sales and other engagement metrics to highlight songs that resonate with viewers after appearing in television shows.

The series finale of The Boys, which concluded the superhero satire's five-season run, gave "Piano Man" a new audience while reminding longtime fans why it has remained a singalong favorite for more than five decades. On the May chart, the classic finished ahead of songs by The Weeknd, Bill Withers, Hozier, Bob Seger and Steely Dan.

Full Billboard Top TV Songs Chart for May 2026

1. "Piano Man" – Billy Joel (The Boys, Prime Video)
2. "Blinding Lights" – The Weeknd (For All Mankind, Apple TV+)
3. "Lovely Day" – Bill Withers (The Boroughs, Netflix)
4. "Take Me to Church" – Hozier (The Boys, Prime Video)
5. "Night Moves" – Bob Seger (The Boroughs, Netflix)
6. "Do It Again" – Steely Dan (Euphoria, HBO)
7. "See U in Hell" – Papa Roach & Hanumankind (Devil May Cry, Netflix)
8. "Starships" – Nicki Minaj (For All Mankind, Apple TV+)
9. "My Immortal" – Evanescence (Devil May Cry, Netflix)
10. "I Played the Fool" – Michael Stipe & Andrew Watt (Rooster, HBO)

Related: 'Stranger Things' Star Is Headlining Netflix's Creepy New Horror Project

Brennan Elliott Returns to Hallmark After Personal Tragedy—Watch an Exclusive Sneak Peek

Fri, 06/26/2026 - 12:16pm

It's been over a year since Brennan Elliott last appeared in a new Hallmark movie. After taking time away from acting following the death of his wife, Camilla Row, in March 2025 after an eight-year battle with gastric cancer, the beloved actor returns in A Castle of Our Own alongside Erica Cerra.

In his first film back, Elliott plays a divorcee who values enjoying life over work life. When he meets a divorced single mom who is stressed out over her unfulfilling job, he attempts to get her to see what he sees in this charming return to the small screen.

Read on for more about A Castle of Our Own don't forget to check out the Parade exclusive sneak peek!

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬

What is A Castle of Our Own about?

When an overworked architect takes an unexpected summer trip, a sandcastle contest and a contractor help her reconnect with her daughter, rediscover joy, and find love she never saw coming.

Related: Hallmark Star Diagnosed With Cancer at 44: ‘I Promise to Persevere’

Who's in the Cast ofA Castle of Our Own? Photo: Brennan Elliott, Erica Cerra. Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Courtesy Muse Entertainment

Hallmark Media

Erica Cerra as Marley

Cerra is best known for her role as Deputy Jo Lupo on SyFy’s Eureka, which also starred Hallmark alums, Colin Ferguson, Kavan Smith, and Niall Matter, who played her love interest on the series. She has since guest starred on several shows including Lucifer, Supernatural, and Nancy Drew. She previously starred in Mystery on Mistletoe Lane for Hallmark Media.

Related: The Whole Family Will Enjoy 'Mystery on Mistletoe Lane's Festive Whodunnit

Brennan Elliott as Adam

Elliott has starred in almost two dozen films for Hallmark Media including the Crossword Mysteries, His & Hers, and Christmas in Vienna opposite Sarah Drew. His other credits include Criminal Minds, UnREAL and The Catch.

Related: Hallmark Actor Brennan Elliott Announces Shocking Loss

When does A Castle of Our Own premiere on Hallmark Channel?

A Castle of Our Own premieres on Saturday, June 27 at 8 p.m.ET on Hallmark Channel and is available to stream the next day on Hallmark+.

Related: ‘The Way Home’ Series Finale Ending Leaves Fans Speechless

Does Parade have a sneak peek of A Castle of Our Own?

Yes! In this cute clip, Adam steals Marley's cell phone away from her. Check out this Parade exclusive sneak peek of A Castle of Our Own below:

PARADE Exclusive - A Castle of Our Own - Sneak Peek (1:54) Check out images from A Castle of Our Own

Take a look at some select images from A Castle of Our Own in the gallery below.

A Castle of Our OwnHallmark Media Photo: Sarah Sheehan, Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Courtesy Muse Entertainment

Hallmark Media

Emy Aneke, Brennan Elliott Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Courtesy Muse Entertainment

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Photo: Erica Cerra, Brennan Elliott, Sarah Sheehan, Sophie Thom Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Courtesy Muse Entertainment

Hallmark Media

Photo: Barbara Pollard, David James Lewis Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Courtesy Muse Entertainment

Hallmark Media

Photo: Erica Cerra, Sarah Sheehan Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Courtesy Muse Entertainment

Hallmark Media

Photo: Erica Cerra, Sophie Thom, Brennan Elliott Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Courtesy Muse Entertainment

Hallmark Media

Photo: Erica Cerra, Sarah Sheehan, Sophie Thom, Brennan Elliott Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Courtesy Muse Entertainment

Hallmark Media

Photo: Barbara Pollard Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Courtesy Muse Entertainment

Hallmark Media

Photo: Emy Aneke Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Courtesy Muse Entertainment

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Photo: Brennan Elliott, Erica Cerra, Sarah Sheehan, Sophie Thom Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Courtesy Muse Entertainment

Hallmark Media

Photo: Brennan Elliott, Erica Cerra Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Courtesy Muse Entertainment

Hallmark Media

Photo: Brennan Elliott Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Courtesy Muse Entertainment

Hallmark Media

Photo: Brennan Elliott, Sophie Thom, Erica Cerra, Sarah Sheehan Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Courtesy Muse Entertainment

Hallmark Media

Photo: Sarah Sheehan, Sophie Thom Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Courtesy Muse Entertainment

Hallmark Media

Photo: Barbara Pollard Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Courtesy Muse Entertainment

Hallmark Media

Photo: Brennan Elliott, Erica Cerra Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Courtesy Muse Entertainment

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Photo: Erica Cerra, Kendra Anderson, Brennan Elliott Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Courtesy Muse Entertainment

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Photo: Sarah Sheehan, Erica Cerra Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Courtesy Muse Entertainment

Hallmark Media

Photo: Brennan Elliott, Lindsay Gibson, Barbara Pollard Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Courtesy Muse Entertainment

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Photo: Erica Cerra Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Courtesy Muse Entertainment

Hallmark Media

1970 Folk Rock Classic, Inspired by an Iconic Music Festival, Became a Counterculture Anthem

Fri, 06/26/2026 - 12:07pm

Despite missing out on one of the biggest music festivals, Joni Mitchellstill released a popular folk-rock track titled "Woodstock." The 1970 song became an anthem of the 1960s counterculture era, and was later reimagined into a rock radio hit that same year.

By 1969, Mitchell had already made a name for herself when she was scheduled to appear at the Woodstock Music and Art Fair alongside the band Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. There was only one problem: she was also scheduled that same day to appear on The Dick Cavett Show. Reports from Woodstock revealed organizational chaos that led her manager, David Geffen, to make a decision.

“It was a catastrophe,” Mitchell told Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) show The National, "and it was Geffen that decided, ‘Oh, we can’t get Joni in, and we can’t get her out in time’. He took me back to where he lived. We watched it on TV."

In the end, Mitchell was told to prioritize her TV appearance over the music festival and ended up never attending. "Woodstock" was written as a result, with Mitchell having gotten first-hand account stories from her then-boyfriend Graham Nash. She once commented on how the "deprivation" of not going gave her an intense angle for the song, as well as being inspired by “a kind of born-again Christian trip” she was going through.

"Woodstock" was released as the B-side to her single "Big Yellow Taxi" and released on her Ladies of the Canyon album. It didn't enter the Billboard charts as a standalone single, and Mitchell even performed the track one month after Woodstock at the 1969 Bug Sur Folk Festival before it was released.

When it was released in 1970, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young released their own cover of the song, but reimagined with a rock arrangement. They learned about the track from Mitchell herself while dating Nash. Their version introduced major changes in tone and had Jimi Hendrix's involvement early on. Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young's "Woodstock" would become one of the more well-known versions of the track and a classic radio staple, which peaked at No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Matthews Southern Comfort also performed their own version of the song and was well-received. Frontman Ian Matthews worried Mitchell would disapprove of him changing the original melody, but she surprisingly preferred his version. Bassist Andy Leigh recalls taking the song apart and reassembling it, knowing they had "something special."

The band's record label agreed to release their cover as a single, only if Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young's version failed to chart in the U.K. When that proved to be the case, the label reluctantly released the track, but didn't make an effort to promote it. It wasn't until their manager hired a PR manager that the song got radio airplay. That same year, Assembled Multitude released their own version that also became a chart hit.

Related: 1977 Rock Classic, Inspired by One of the ‘Best Monster Movies’ of All Time, Became a Pop Culture Anthem

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