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Country music has no shortage of patriotic songs that honor those who served and sacrificed their lives for the country, and Toby Keith's "American Soldier" is one of the most poignant.

"American Soldier" was released in late 2003 as the second single from Keith's eighth studio album Shock'n. It came out in the wake of rising patriotism following the 9/11 terrorist attacks and the subsequent wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, a time when support for U.S. troops was at an extreme high.

The heartfelt ballad from Keith not only became a patriotic anthem with a poignant message for U.S. soldiers, but it also ended up being a major commercial success for the late country crooner. Following its release in late 2003, "American Soldier" reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in February 2004, and it stayed there for four consecutive weeks.

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"This is a tremendous honor to the troops," Keith said in 2004 about the meaning of the song, according to American Songwriter. "We get so desensitized seeing them on the news every night that we forget that under the helmets is a mind, under the camouflage is a heart. They put it all on the line for us, man."

Keith died in February 2024 at the age of 62 following a battle with stomach cancer, but his impact on country music still lives on, and so many of his patriotic anthems.

"American Soldier" isn't the only one of Keith's patriotic tracks to stand the test of time, as his initially-controversial 2002 hit "Courtesy Of The Red, White And Blue (The Angry American)" reached No. 1 on the country charts and is frequently ranked among the genre's best patriotic songs.

Related: Trace Adkins Shares Memorial Day Playlist of the Most Patriotic Country Songs

Other patriotic hits from Keith include "Made in America," which reached No. 1 in 2011, as well as "American Ride," which spent two weeks at the top of the country charts in 2009.

Related: Country Star's Memorial Day Performance Resurfaces as One of the 'Most Moving' Tributes of All Time

The 52nd American Music Awards, hosted by Queen Latifah, will air live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, the largest venue in the show’s history, tonight to honor the most influential artists and songs of today alongside unforgettable performances and special moments in a multi-genre, cross-generational celebration of music.

But before the awards are handed out and the performances begin, the stars will make their way down the red carpet—and Parade takes you there.

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Check out the 2026 red-carpet gallery to see who earns fashion honors.

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Photo by David Becker/Getty Images

View the 30 images of this gallery on the original article

The star-packed performance lineup for the night features Billy Idol, KAROL G, KATSEYE, Keith Urban, Maluma, New Kids on the Block, The Pussycat Dolls + Busta Rhymes, Riley Green, SOMBR, Teddy Swims, Teyana Taylor, and Twenty-One Pilots. Also, a special live appearance by BTS.

Presenters will include Alysa Liu, Anthony Ramos, EJAE, Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias, Hannah Berner, Hilary Duff, Jason Derulo, John Legend, Lisa Rinna, Ludacris, Mariah the Scientist, Matt Rife, Megan Stalter and Paul W. Downs, Melanie Martinez, Nikki Glaser, Paula Abdul, REI AMI, and Russell Dickerson.

Related: Lights! Cameras! Fashion! Check Out the Fab Styles From the 2025 American Music Awards Red Carpet

Also, Billy Idol will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his incomparable career and body of work, unparalleled contributions to music and continued influence on generations of artists and fans. The punk icon will deliver a medley of some of his biggest hits, marking his first time on the AMAs stage since presenting in 2004 and his first AMAs performance ever.

In addition, Darius Rucker, who will perform with Hootie & the Blowfish, will receive the Veterans Voice Award presented by USAA’s Honor Through Action for his longstanding personal commitment to organizations like Military Warriors Support Foundation, with which he helped provide 20+ mortgage-free homes to veterans. Throughout his career, Rucker has also performed on multiple overseas USO tours and at events in support of veterans such as the DoD Warrior Games.

Related: Keith Urban and Hootie & The Blowfish Set to Rock the 2026 AMAs

The 52nd American Music Awards airs tonight at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT PT on CBS Television and streaming on Paramount+.

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

If you’re working with a smaller space, there are plenty of ways to make it feel roomier without giving up style. Hidden storage is a game-changer, whether it’s in a couch, an ottoman, or even a coffee table you wouldn’t expect.

The Millwood Pines Sparta Lift-Top Storage Coffee Table is a great example. Its classic design fits seamlessly into any living room, while the lift-top feature turns it into the perfect height for eating or working. Right now, select styles are up to 55% off during Wayfair's Memorial Day sale, bringing the price as low as $75.

Millwood Pines Sparta Lift-Top Storage Coffee Table, From $75 (was $166) at Wayfair Shop at Wayfair

Choose from black, brown, gray, or white finishes to match your living room style. This lift-top coffee table features a wooden top that smoothly raises and lowers, thanks to a high-quality metal mechanism and spring. The steel and engineered wood frame ensures durability, while the four thick legs provide a sturdy foundation. Scratch-resistant and waterproof, the table is easy to clean and can support up to 200 pounds. Assembly is required, but all necessary tools are included.

Related: Wayfair's 'Beautiful' and 'Plush' Corduroy Cloud Couch Is Over 50% Off During Its Memorial Day Sale

The table offers ample storage with a lower split shelf for board games, blankets, or baskets, and a hidden upper compartment perfect for remotes, coasters, or other small items. Measuring 22.4 inches tall, 39 inches wide, and 19.7 inches deep, it combines practical functionality with sleek design for everyday living.

This coffee table has over 3,800 five-star reviews on Wayfair, with shoppers praising its design and construction. One reviewer called it “spacious,” adding, “It’s easy to assemble, beautiful quality, and sturdy. If I want to watch a movie and have dinner, this coffee table top rises to the occasion.” Another wrote, “It’s great for smaller rooms — I can store candles and other things inside.”

Shop More Deals

• Lark Manor Weddel Basilico Coffee Table, From $103 (was $261) at Wayfair
• Wade Logan Inniss Coffee Table, From $87 (was $303) at Wayfair
• Gracie Oaks Torron Lift-Top Coffee Table, From $150 (was $499) at Wayfair

Whether you’re tight on space, looking for extra storage, or in need of a gift just about anyone would love, the Millwood Pines Sparta Lift-Top Storage Coffee Table is a smart choice. Right now, with select styles up to 55% off, it’s an even better deal than usual.

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.

There has been a real shift in how people are approaching dining at home lately. Meals are no longer just something rushed between busy moments. They feel more intentional now, more comfort-driven, and more about the experience itself. Whether it is homemade pasta on a quiet night, slow-cooked soup during the week, or a laid-back movie night dinner on the couch, people are leaning into kitchenware that makes everyday food feel warmer and more inviting.

Comfort food culture has also taken off in a big way online. Social feeds are constantly filled with oversized bowls of ramen, baked mac and cheese, hearty chili and beautifully styled soup setups that look like they belong in a lifestyle magazine. The rise of cozy home living has shifted what people want from their dinnerware. Instead of ultra-minimal plates or sharp modern edges, shoppers are gravitating toward pieces that feel grounded and nostalgic. Things that look handmade feel lived-in and bring a sense of comfort to the table rather than just looking decorative.

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Pfaltzgraff Set of 6 Double Handle Bowls, $39.99 At Costco

Costco

That is exactly why the Pfaltzgraff Set of 6 Double Handle Bowls from Costco is getting so much attention right now. At $39.99 for a six-piece set, it fits perfectly into that cozy kitchen aesthetic people are leaning into more than ever. The rounded shape, paired with those double-sided handles, gives each bowl a cauldron-inspired feel that sits right between rustic charm and modern design.

The double handle detail is what really sets these apart from standard dinnerware. There is something naturally comforting about holding a warm bowl with both hands, especially when it is filled with soup, pasta, oatmeal or any slow-cooked comfort meal. On top of that, the handles make them genuinely practical for moving hot food from the kitchen to the table without worrying about spills or awkward balancing.

The stoneware finish is another reason this set is resonating with shoppers. Durable stoneware has become a go-to in modern kitchens because it offers that elevated look without feeling fragile or overly precious. The mix of navy teal and beige tones also adds to the appeal, giving the set a grounded, earthy look.

Related: Uniqlo's Lightweight Summer Essential Might Be the Easiest Warm-Weather Upgrade Yet

Microwave- and dishwasher-safe features matter more now than they ever have. People are not just buying dinnerware for looks anymore; they want pieces that actually fit into real daily routines. It is great when something looks beautiful on the table, but it becomes even better when you can reheat leftovers directly in the same bowl and then toss it straight into the dishwasher without thinking twice.

Another big reason oversized comfort bowls are trending is their versatility. These are not just soup bowls sitting in a cabinet waiting for winter meals. People are using them for ramen rice bowls, desserts, side dishes, baked dips, meal prep and even casual serving pieces when friends or family come over.

The cauldron-inspired shape also connects directly to the rise of cottagecore and rustic kitchen aesthetics. Rounded silhouettes, earthy tones and handcrafted-inspired textures are becoming more common in modern kitchens because they soften the space and make it feel more lived in.

At under forty bucks for a six-bowl set, this feels like one of those simple kitchen upgrades that quietly changes how everyday meals feel. It is not about overhauling everything; it is about small, intentional pieces that make eating at home feel a little more special and a lot more enjoyable.

Related: Old Navy's Affordable Canvas Jacket Is the Perfect Grab-and-Go Layer for Everyday Wear

As Beyond the Gates Season 2 has continued to unfold, viewers have watched as Dr. Carlton Fitzgearld (Robert Christopher Riley) has fought for the love of Dr. Nicole Richardson Dupree (Daphnée Duplaix), the ex-wife of his best friend and partner, Ted Richardson (Keith D. Robinson). Now, Fitzgearld is talking viewers through his character's motivation and why Carlton moves the way he does.

Reily was recently interviewed by TVSource Magazine’s journalist M. Skye about his first year on the soap, the character's journey and the direction he sees Carlton headed in.

During the conversation, Carlton’s relationship with Nicole came up. Riley admits Carlton wasn’t “waiting in the wings for Ted to mess up." He added that “it was such an egregious mistake that Ted made, and Carlton wasn’t going to let the opportunity pass him twice.”

During Season 1, it was revealed that Ted had an affair with Leslie “Dana” Thomas (Trisha Mann-Grant), resulting in the birth of their child Eva Thomas (Ambyr Michelle). Ted’s marriage immediately imploded, and now Nicole has begun dating Carlton and also Dr. Kial Rollins (Greg Vaughan).

Fans have joked online that Carlton’s actions have given off a sort of ‘stalker’ vibe. Reily addressed these concerns head-on, sharing, “For the record, Carlton does not have a shrine to Nicole hidden somewhere. No shrine.”  The actor also added, “No Ted voodoo doll either.”

In the show’s history, Carlton met Nicole at the same time as Ted, only Ted got to hang out with her first. Given Carlton’s eagerness to explore his connection with Nicole, viewers have questioned whether Carlton has simply been waiting in the wings for the day Nicole would be free.

Reilly addressed this by reminding viewers of how it all began. “If you remember in the very beginning, the first conversation that Carlton and Nicole had, Carlton said it was going to take someone very special for him to stop just being […] out in them streets.”

But the actor acknowledged that it might be Nicole's love that keeps him from sowing his wild oats and finally settling down.

Viewers will have to stay tuned to see if that occurs, but with Ted in Nicole’s romantic orbit once again, could it be over for Nicole and Carlton before it even truly began?

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Beyond the Gates airs weekdays on CBS with episodes streaming weeknights on Paramount+.

Viewers can catch up on all of the drama from Fairmount Crest from the beginning of the series on Paramount+ or for free on Pluto TV’s dedicated 24/7 Beyond the Gates FAST  channel.

Beloved '60s supergroup Cream, consisting of Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce, and Ginger Baker, produced its fair share of hits, like "Sunshine of Your Love" and "White Room." In 2025, Rolling Stone magazine recognized the band's 1969 hit, "Badge," off the album Goodbye, as one of the best tunes to play during a long car ride. According to the publication, it's the 49th "best road-trip song" ever recorded.

American Songwriter reported that Clapton's friend, former Beatle George Harrison, helped pen the tune. In an interview, Harrison explained how "Badge" was written.

"I helped Eric write 'Badge,' you know. Each of them had to come up with a song for that Goodbye Cream album, and Eric didn’t have his written. We were working across from each other and I was writing the lyrics down and we came to the middle part so I wrote Bridge. Eric read it upside down and cracked up laughing, ‘What’s BADGE?’" said Harrison, who died in 2001 at the age of 58, per American Songwriter.

Harrison then said that his Beatle bandmate, Ringo Starr, helped with the lyrics, while inebriated.

"After that, Ringo walked in drunk and gave us that line about the swans living in the park," said Harrison, as reported by American Songwriter.

Eric Clapton Was Present When George Harrison Wrote One of the Beatles' Most Beloved Songs

Far Out magazine reported that Clapton, now 81, was present when Harrison penned one of the Beatles' most enduring and beloved songs, 1969's "Here Comes the Sun." According to the publication, Clapton shared in the 2011 documentary George Harrison: Living in the Material World that Harrison created the tune, off Abbey Road, while sitting in his garden.

"He was just a magical guy, and he would show up, get out of the car with his guitar, and come in and start playing. I just watched this thing come to life. I felt very proud that it was my garden that was inspiring it," said Clapton, who was married to Harrison's ex-wife Pattie Boyd for 10 years until 1989. “It was a beautiful spring morning, and we were sitting at the top of a big field at the bottom of the garden. We had our guitars and were just strumming away when he started singing ‘it’s been a long cold lonely winter,’ and bit by bit, he fleshed it out.”

Move over ranch milkshake—Great Wolf Lodge has a new viral food moment.

Earlier this year, the resort’s limited-edition ranch milkshake took over TikTok, with ranch-lovers scrambling to try the creation before it disappeared. Now, just in time for summer, Great Wolf Lodge is back with another over-the-top seasonal menu.

Starting Memorial Day, the family resort teamed up with Nathan’s Famous to launch “Hot Dog Days of Summer,” a limited-time menu featuring five regional hot dogs inspired by flavors from around the United States.

I got to try the full lineup at Great Wolf Lodge in the Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania, and honestly? Some of these were way better than I expected.

Here’s my ranking of every hot dog on the new menu—plus, where you can find them before they disappear after Labor Day.

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What Is Great Wolf Lodge’s New Hot Dog Menu? I tried all five of Great Wolf Lodge's limited-time hot dog offerings.

Great Wolf Lodge partnered with Nathan’s Famous to create a limited-edition summer menu featuring five specialty hot dogs inspired by regional American flavors.

Each hot dog starts with a Nathan’s Famous all-beef frank and adds toppings inspired by different parts of the country—from a Chicago-style dog piled high with toppings to a lobster-topped New England version.

The menu was created to celebrate America’s upcoming 250th birthday and is available at select Great Wolf Lodge resorts for a limited time this summer.

Related: I Tried Great Wolf Lodge’s New Ranch Milkshake: Here’s My Honest Review

How Long Is the Great Wolf Lodge Hot Dog Menu Available?

The “Hot Dog Days of Summer” menu launches Memorial Day weekend and will be available through Labor Day 2026.

Where Is the Menu Available? Great Wolf Lodge partnered with Nathan’s Famous to create a limited-edition summer menu featuring five specialty hot dogs inspired by regional American flavors.

The limited-time menu is available at select Great Wolf Lodge locations, including:

• Anaheim, California
• Grapevine, Texas
• Gurnee, Illinois
• Manteca, California
• Mason, Ohio
• Perryville, Maryland
• Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania
• Scottsdale, Arizona
• Webster, Texas
• Williamsburg, Virginia

What Hot Dogs Are on the Menu? The New England Lobster Dog is beyond decadent!

New England Lobster Dog
This hot dog is served on a buttery, split-top potato roll and topped with lobster meat that's been mixed with celery, mayonnaise, fresh chives and tarragon. It’s finished with salt and pepper, giving it more of a lobster-roll-meets-hot-dog vibe.

Unlike the other menu items, the Lobster Dog is only available inside the full-service restaurants at all Great Wolf Lodge locations nationwide. It’s priced at $25.99 and comes with fries.

Carolina Dog
Inspired by “Carolina barbecue flavors,” this hot dog is topped with pulled pork, creamy coleslaw, chopped onion and a pickle spear, then finished with Carolina Gold BBQ sauce.

If you love smoky barbecue flavors, you don’t want to miss it.

Southwest Dog
The Southwest Dog leans into fresh toppings and texture. It comes loaded with pico de gallo, grilled jalapeños, avocado, Mexican cream and crunchy corn chips, plus a lime wedge.

Big Texas Dog
As expected, this one is messy in the best possible way.

The Big Texas Dog is topped with beef brisket chili, shredded cheddar cheese and optional diced onions.

Chicago Dog
The Chicago Dog stays pretty traditional, complete with neon green relish, sport peppers, chopped onions, tomato slices and yellow mustard on a poppy seed bun.

And true to its Chicago roots, no ketchup.

Related: Great Wolf Lodge is the Perfect Valentine’s Day Destination (Really!)

Great Wolf Lodge Hot Dog Menu, Ranked5. Chicago Dog The Chicago Dog was not my favorite.

I know Chicago dog fans may come for me here, but this one just wasn’t for me. Honestly, it was a little too spicy and vinegary for my taste (I blame the relish and sport peppers). If you love a traditional Chicago-style hot dog loaded with toppings, you’ll probably enjoy it way more than I did. But compared to the other options, this is the one I'd be least likely to go back for.

4. Carolina Dog  The Carolina Gold BBQ sauce was great, but the pickles were overwhelming.

The Carolina Dog tasted like summer barbecue in a hot dog. The pulled pork had a smoky flavor, while the coleslaw cooled everything down. The pickle and Carolina Gold BBQ sauce was flavorful, but the strong pickle flavor took over a little too much for me personally.

3. Big Texas Dog

This one felt the most like classic comfort food. The beef brisket chili was delicious and even had a hint of coffee in it that I tasted. Add in the cheddar cheese and onions, and I was going for more bites during the taste test. Definitely on the heavy side, but still very good.

2. Southwest Dog After a day inside the park, the Southwest Dog was so satisfying.

This one surprised me. The fresh avocado, pico de gallo and crunchy tortilla strips gave it a ton of texture, and it tasted fresh, flavorful and a little lighter than some of the heavier hot dogs on the menu. Overall, it just worked after a day of slides and the wave pool with three little kids.

1. New England Lobster Dog I'm still thinking about the New England Lobster Dog!

I genuinely did not expect this to be my favorite — especially because I’m not even a huge lobster roll person—but this was the only hot dog I completely finished.

The lobster mixture was creamy and buttery, and the chopped celery added the perfect crunch. I loved the little hint of lemon and herbs mixed into the mayo, and the toasted split-top bun made it feel way more fancy than a theme park hot dog. Mine was loaded with real knuckle meat, and the crushed saltines on top added the salty crunch.

Honestly, I’d order this again—even outside of a taste test.

How Much Are the New Hot Dogs at Great Wolf Lodge?

With the exception of the New England Lobster Dog, every specialty hot dog costs $16.99 and comes with chips and a fountain drink.

There’s also a kids option available for $9.99 that includes a hot dog, chips and a soda.

On the other hand, the New England Lobster Dog is priced separately at $25.99 and comes with french fries instead of chips. In the Poconos location, you can find it at the Fireside restaurant to the right of the lobby entrance.

Related: Make a Splash With the Kids Any Time of Year—Here Are the 16 Best Indoor Water Parks in the U.S.

How To Try the New Great Wolf Lodge Hot Dogs You can enjoy Great Wolf Lodge's new speciality hot dogs all summer long!

The “Hot Dog Days of Summer” menu is available now at participating Great Wolf Lodge resorts through Labor Day, while supplies last.

The specialty hot dogs are sold at locations inside participating resorts, while the Lobster Dog is available in the lodges’ full-service restaurants nationwide.

Related: Next Up:

After months of a bracket-style tournament, Survivor fans have finally crowned the greatest winner in the show’s history—but not everyone agrees with the final pick.

On Monday, May 25, Entertainment Weekly revealed that Todd Herzog, winner of Survivor: China, was voted as the best winner from all 50 seasons. In 2007, he defeated Courtney Yates and Amanda Kimmel in a 4-2-1 vote for the title of Sole Survivor.

"I started watching Survivor day one as a super fan myself. I studied the game. I went out there to represent the super fans. I took the title in China and I just wanted to make the fans proud," Herzog, 41, said in a thank-you video to fans.

"Anybody who loved Survivor: China and went out there and voted and represented it's truly an honor," he continued. "I thank you from the bottom of my heart. This is really exciting. It means an awful lot because it's been 19 years since I played, but I am super proud of my game."

RELATED: Rizo Velovic Reacts to Jeff Probst Spoiling His ‘Survivor 50’ Elimination: ‘This Is Awkward’

Though Herzog is one of the more dominant winners in the show's history, some fans felt the honor should go to a winner who's played the game multiple times—like "Boston" Rob Mariano, Parvati Shallow, Kim Spradlin or Tony Vlachos.

"Boston Rob all the way. Only player who played a perfect game, in season 22. He controlled his tribe like a cult leader/mob boss," one fan wrote on X. "lol no way. Kim [Spradlin] One World. Hands down the best winner. Challenge Beast. Strategy Beast. Social Beast."

"Yeah no. Tony [Vlachos] is the best winner and it’s not that close," added a third. "Todd was not the best winner ever. It's either Kim or Boston Rob. They both played perfect seasons! Both had total control of the game from Day 1."

RELATED: CBS Says All ‘Survivor’ Winners Were Invited to Season 50 Finale—But 1 Is Pushing Back

In the years following his Survivor win, Herzog publicly struggled with severe alcoholism which was documented on Dr. Phil from 2013 to 2016.

Thankfully, Herzog has been sober since 2017, and if he's willing—fans would like to see him join the ranks of two-time Survivor winners.

"Get this man back on Survivor. He’s ready," wrote one fan. "I hope Survivor sees this & realizes there’s passion, still almost 20 years later, for Todd and how we’d love to see him back. He should’ve been on Winners at War! He was sober for many years then, but if that was the concern, it’s been 6 more years since and he’s still sober. Put him on!" said another.

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There's nothing like a hit of nostalgia to get fans buzzing. Jennifer Lopezstunned fans when appearing in an Instagram video with Off Campus series star Mika Abdalla while wearing a throwback lace-up pair of jeans from the early 2000s.

Off Campus went viral on social media when Abdalla's character dressed up as Jennifer Lopez in her iconic green Versace dress for a party. She became the center of attention when dancing to Lopez's 2011 hit track with Pitbull, "On the Floor."

While the singer and actor previously commented on the track and dress going viral years later, she catered to fans by uniting with Abdalla to recreate the Off Campus scene. Besides Lopez's killer abs on display, fans also noticed a familiar pair of lace-up low-rise jeans. She's seen in the video wearing the jeans alongside a cropped white turtleneck and heeled boots.

The jeans in question appear to be the same pair she wore in the music video for her 2011 track "Ain't It Funny." One fan on X commented, "Those pants are INSANE" while posting a clip of the music video.

"They’re the same ones from that video," confirmed Lopez.

It’s a new Jeneration of party people…🎶 pic.twitter.com/LIC1c6o3GF

— jlo (@JLo) May 23, 2026

Fans quickly commented back saying, "Being able to wear the same pair of jeans from 20 years ago is such a flex. Mother behavior," and "only you can slay like that mother." Others even posted side-by-side comparisons of Lopez from 2001 to 2026 with the caption, "Same body, same girl."

"Ain't It Funny" was originally written by Lopez and Cory Rooney as a track for her romantic comedy drama The Wedding Planner. Director Adam Shankman felt the song had too much of a Latin influence to make sense for the film, and it was instead released on Lopez's second studio albumJ.Lo. The track was a commercial success in multiple countries, with the music video filmed in sepia tone where Lopex meets a gypsy who tells her her future.

Related: Meryl Streep's Estranged Husband Weighs in on Her Romance With Martin Short: 'Perspective Has Changed'

His soaring voice and emotionally charged lyrics helped define ’70s, ’80s, and even ’90s rock. And today, Klaus Meine is still bringing the thunder. So why not take five and celebrate the Soul of the Scorpions, as he turns 79.

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In a post published on the band’s official Instagram, the Scorpions frontman gets a birthday shout-out from his bandmates. 

View this post on Instagram

“Stay louder than ever for Peace, Love and Rock & Roll!!! Happy Birthday, dear Klaus!!! Best of health, love, happiness and always good times in the years to come… Your Gang: Rudolf, Matthias, Pawel and Mikkey,” the caption reads.

Fans are also showing their love, with one writing, "What a privilege to share a birthday with the same icon, just one day apart but in the same month! Happy birthday Klaus, you are the most beautiful, cutest, most beloved, strongest, and most incredible person in this world. May you have many more years of health and happiness!!!”

“Happy birthday, dear Klaus!!,” another commented. “May God bless you with good health and a long life!! And thank you so much for sharing your wonderful music with us and for making us happy all these years with your lovely presence on the stages of life!! Greetings from Brazil!!”

We, too, from the East Coast of the United States would like to wish Meine a relaxing and wonderful 79th birthday. After decades of defining hard rock and heavy metal, you deserve some R&R. Thank you for the arena anthems, soaring vocals, and shattering power ballads. 

From the global anthem “Wind of Change,” which topped the charts in 11 countries across Europe in 1991, including the band's native Germany, Austria, Switzerland, France, and the Netherlands, to the Scorpions’ only No. 1 single on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks, “No One Like You” from 1982, our classic rock playlists will be forever grateful. 

Now, excuse us while we rock this Memorial Day like a hurricane and go on “Still Loving You,” Klaus Meine, frontman of the award-winning and most famous German rock band of all time. Have a wonderful birthday.

Related: 1990 Rock Ballad That Fueled a Wild Conspiracy Theory Became One of the Best-Selling Songs Ever

There are three things guaranteed in the world today: Death, taxes, and Jeopardy! being on. Believe it or not, the iconic game show has been on the air for over 60 years (though the modern incarnation we know and love technically debuted in 1984). Under the watchful eye of Ken Jennings (who himself was a record-breaking champion), Jeopardy! puts three people's trivia skills and reflexes to the ultimate test. And so many of the greats to grace those podiums started by simply watching the show as it aired on weekdays, as millions have done for over half a century.

Here's a spoiler-filled recap of who won Jeopardy! today, plus the answer to Final Jeopardy.

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Who won Jeopardy today?Chris D'Angelo

Chris D'Angelo took home his fourth consecutive victory, for a running total of $83,600 as a four-day champion.

Who are the Jeopardy contestants today?Chris D'Angelo

Chris D'Angelo is a content manager from Washington, D.C.

Veronica Matthews

Veronica Matthews is an after-school science instructor originally from Martinez, California.

Jack Kelly

Jack Kelly is a PH.D. student from Cambridge, Massachusetts. 

Related: Sam Heughan Surprises ‘Jeopardy!’ Fans With an ‘Outlander’ Category — Can You Answer the Clues?

What was Final Jeopardy today?

Final Jeopardy today was in the category "SOUTHERN AFRICA"

The clue: "Called the "Calendar Lake" because it's about 365 miles long & 52 miles wide, it shares its name with a country."

The answer: "What is the Lake Malawi?"

Only two contestants got FJ right, which worked in D'Angelo's favor. The Memorial Day episode saw the three-day champ take his fourth victory, as he led with a massive lead following DJ at $25,200. Wagering $4,800, a correct answer added $30,000 to his overall prize pot. Kelly also got FJ correct, wagering $1,001 for a 2nd place total of $8,001.

Matthews did not get it right (What is Namibia), and with a conservative wager of $731, she ended in third place with $3,269.

D'Angelo will return on Tuesday for attempt number five!

Did you get the answer? Sound off in the comments!

Related: Where Jamie Ding Ranks Among ‘Jeopardy!’s Top 10 All-Time Winners

When is Jeopardy on next?

Jeopardy! will come back on Tuesday, May 26, with a new episode. Check your local listings to find out when to watch

Where is Jeopardy streaming?

Jeopardy! is available on both Hulu and Peacock. Subscribers can enjoy watching new episodes the next day, as well as access a vault of many classic episodes to enjoy at a moment's notice.

Related: Ken Jennings Reveals If 'Celebrity Jeopardy!' Questions Are Easier

Euphoria fans were a little caught off guard by Sydney Sweeney’s racy topless bedroom scene. But Cassie’s now-viral moment wasn’t even the biggest surprise. As it turns out, her amore was none other than A-list actor Richard Gere’s son!

American actor Richard Gere and his son, American actor Homer James Jigme Gere at the 81 Venice International Film Festival 2024. Filming Italy Venice Award Red Carpet. Venice (Italy), September 1st, 2024 (Photo by Rocco Spaziani/Archivio Spaziani/Mondadori Portfolio via Getty Images) Who Is Richard Gere’s Son In ‘Euphoria’?

The Pretty Woman 1980s and 1990s heartthrob has three sons: 26-year-old Homer Gere (with second wife, actress and model Carey Lowell), seven-year-old Alexander (with third wife, Alejandra Silva), and six-year-old James (also with Silva). 

Way back in 2002, Gere told The Guardian, Homer is “The joy of my life. Loves music, very fast runner, very smart. Very funny. Pretty quick he learned irony, which is a wonderful quality for any human being.” Along with these ‘wonderful qualities,’ now that he’s an adult, Homer is also a talented actor who is following in his famous father’s footsteps. 

The younger Gere (Homer, that is) plays fictional actor Dylan Reid on Euphoria. In a bid to put her OnlyFans days behind her, Sweeney’s character, Cassie, auditions for a small role on a TV show. That is, the TV show her sister Lexi (played by Maude Apatow) happens to work on. Like Gere, Apatow is also the child of two famous parents. Her mother is actress Leslie Mann, and her father is filmmaker Judd Apatow. 

Back to the fictional world of Euphoria, where Cassie beds Reid (in an extremely revealing scene) to further her career. After their romp, Dylan heads to the kitchen for a glass of water as Cassie posts a pic of the two of them from his phone (posing as him) with a more-than-suggestive caption. Whew! 

While Sunday’s recent episode wasn’t his only moment on the show, it certainly had the biggest impact. Of course, it’s very possible some fans didn’t really know (or care) that Gere was in the scene. Based on the reaction, he wasn’t exactly the star of the show. And while it would be nice to say that it was either his or Sweeney’s acting abilities that made the episode stand out, chances are it was the graphic nudity.

What Are Homer Gere’s Other Acting Roles?

Playing Dylan Reid in the third season of Euphoria is Homer Gere’s breakout, notice-me role. But it probably isn't the last time you’ll see him on the small screen. He’s set to star as Robert Mallory in the upcoming Ryan Murphy FX series, The Shards. And like Eurphoria, this series also stars another ‘nepo baby’ — Kaia Gerber, the daughter of Richard Gere’s ex (first wife), Cindy Crawford.

The Big Bang Theory spinoff, Stuart Fails To Save the Universe, is coming to HBO MAX on July 23. The series is about Stuart Bloom, a comic book store owner who is trying to restore reality after breaking a device that Sheldon and Leonard have built.

“Stuart is aided in this quest by his girlfriend Denise, geologist friend Bert, and quantum physicist/all-around pain in the ass Barry Kripke,” according to Deadline. However, eagle-eyed fans have spotted another familiar face in the most recent sizzle reel dropped on Sunday.

In the clip, Wil Wheaton appears at the thirty-second mark. He appears to be firing an energy blast at Stuart, Denise, Bert, and Kripke.

Wheaton was involved in 17 episodes of The Big Bang Theory, with his first appearance occurring in season 3. However, on his website, he revealed that he wasn’t originally sure whether he wanted to appear on the show.

“Bill Prady called me, and pitched me on playing a version of myself on his series, The Big Bang Theory,” he said. “Believe it or not, I didn’t instantly say yes. I felt like playing myself meant I would only get to do one episode, nobody would care, and the industry wouldn’t respect me for it because I wasn’t playing a role.”  

Related: 2012 ‘The Big Bang Theory’ Episode Ranked the Funniest in the Entire Series Had an Iconic Guest Star

However, he changed his mind after getting advice from his friend, John Rogers, and learning that the character had been altered. “A few days later, Bill called me back and carefully told me that the character had changed,” he said. “Now, the version of Wil Wheaton I would be playing was, and I quote, ‘Delightfully evil.' Now I said YES without hesitation. I was playing a character, just like I wanted to, but I was the only person in the world who could play him, because he was literally a version of me.”

He continued, “That week on the set was the best week of my life. I was already a huge fan of the show, but by the time I was wrapped, I was an even bigger fan of the cast and crew. Everyone treated me with kindness and respect. They made me feel so welcome, like I deserved to be there, like I was a valued member of the show. One of the producers told me, 'I hope you had a good time here, because we are definitely bringing you back for more episodes.'”

Kylie Minogue recently opened up her life and career for a three-part Netflix docuseries. In it, a range of talking heads from her four-decade career revealed what it was like working with the pop princess.

Kylie was especially thrilled to see Nick Cave, with whom she dueted on 1996's "Where The Wild Roses Grow," speak so fondly about her. "I just couldn't believe he nailed it and was so generous, so profound, so Nick," she said, per RNZ.

Kylie revealed that Nick had an "incredible" influence on her career, which is "beautifully portrayed in the documentary" as "someone that just saw something else in me that allowed me to have the kind of faith, I guess".

"To have someone that's there by your side … Knowing that he's there and knowing that I could call him for advice is amazing," the 57-year-old admitted.

Kylie Minogue and Nick Cave perform on the Pyramid stage on day five of Glastonbury Festival at Worthy Farm, Pilton on June 30, 2019 in Glastonbury, England. (Photo by Ian Gavan/Getty Images)

Another major influence on Kylie's life and career was her romance with the late INXS singer Michael Hutchence. "We all know what an amazing person he was," she explained. The singer passed away in 1997 at the age of just 37 years old.

"I'm sure he lights up everybody in a similar way. But for me, I was 21, 22 years old when we met and when we started dating. What an age, what a time." The pair dated from 1989 to 1991, during the height of INXS' fame.

The "Padam Padam" singer explained that the rocker introduced her to "the greater world" of art, literature and the rock star lifestyle.

"He taught me about being a person: about looking for and appreciating more in life and the finer things in life. He's quite epicurean, so well versed, he was like a Byron. He was that kind of type," she said, calling the singer "a good human."

"I talk in the documentary about him teaching me that it's OK to be still. I was doing cartwheels and all sorts. I had no [career] lessons. I basically learned like, 'You're on the stage. Go!' I still have a glow talking about him."

Related: ‘80s Pop Icon Reveals Secret 2021 Battle With Cancer

Maisie Peters has a very specific list of things she’s still waiting on from Taylor Swift.

"I've not received a sourdough loaf or a wedding invite," said Peters during a Friday, May 22 episode of the Zach Sang Show. "I think that's OK."

The singer made the comments while reflecting on her experience opening for Swift during the Eras Tour at Wembley Stadium in August 2024, a career moment that brought her even further into the global spotlight.

Peters explained that before taking the stage, she had actually gone out of her way to bring Swift a few small gifts. “I actually went [to the Brick Lane market] to buy Taylor some presents before I did the show. I got her some books and a little tote bag,” she said.

She also shared that she spent part of their interaction enthusiastically talking about her admiration for Hilary Duff, something she now jokes may have worked against her chances of receiving a wedding invite. “And after hearing my spiel on Hilary Duff, I don’t think it’s coming,” she said.

Peters added that she remains a longtime fan of Swift and is taking the situation in stride. “Obviously, I’m a huge fan and maybe one day I’ll get to try her sourdough. Lifelong goal. Good to have dreams,” she joked.

The comments come as Swift’s relationship with Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce continues to draw widespread attention, with speculation and curiosity surrounding their upcoming wedding plans. While details about the ceremony remain limited, fans and fellow musicians alike have occasionally commented on their lack of an invitation.

For now, Peters seems more amused than disappointed—happy to celebrate her time on tour and still holding out hope for that elusive sourdough loaf.

Shannon Elizabeth is sporting a swimsuit publicly for the first time in 25 years after making a pretty penny in her first week on OnlyFans.

Elizabeth, 52, who skyrocketed to stardom in 1999 as the foreign exchange student named Nadia who made Jason Biggs' dreams come true in American Pie, reprised her role in the film's sequels. While she continued to act in films like Scary Movie and Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back, the star pursued additional avenues, including a successful poker career and a life of philanthropy working with animals. However, that career took a bit of a pivot with her move to OnlyFans last month, which was a rousing success: According to Variety, the star's OnlyFans account earned $1.2 million during her first week on the platform.

Now, the actress is back on Instagram, sporting a bathing suit publicly for the first time since she appeared in Maxim magazine in 2001, the Daily Mail pointed out.

"Mauritius just raised the bar! ☀️," read Elizabeth's Instagram caption, which showed her in a brown one-piece bathing suit. "A day at Shangri-La Le Touessrok... pristine white sand beaches, a private island you reach by boat, and the most dreamy beachside lunch at Coco’s Beach House. This place is something else."

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Why Did Shannon Elizabeth Join OnlyFans?

Last month, Elizabeth opened up about why she decided to join the popular platform.

“I've spent my entire career working in Hollywood, where other people controlled the narrative and the outcome of my career. This new chapter is about changing that, showing off a more sexy side no one has seen, and being closer to my fans,” Elizabeth told PEOPLE. “I'm choosing OnlyFans because it allows me to connect directly with my audience, create on my own terms, and just be free. I really do think this is the future."

Clearly, the endeavor worked out for her: Creators Inc. CEO Andy Bachman revealed Elizabeth “grossed seven figures in her first week on the platform.”

Related: 'American Pie' Star Earned Nearly $1 Million in 1 Week After Major Career Shift: Report

Criminal Mindsstar Joe Mantegnahas co-hosted the National Memorial Day Concert on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., for nearly two decades and was scheduled to return this year. Unfortunately, he was unable to make it. Instead, Gary Sinise will be seen alongside West Wing actress Mary McCormack, who stepped in to fill the role at the last minute.

It was a stunning move that seemingly no one saw coming, and Mantegna's initial statement regarding the change in plans was vague.

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Initially, he shared in a statement, "I truly wish I could be there in person this year but due to unforeseen circumstances, I need to remain in Los Angeles. I’m looking forward to joining the millions of Americans watching this Sunday’s concert on PBS and continuing to do everything I can to support this important event for years to come."

On Memorial Day, Mantegna shared even more insight into his absence in a lengthy statement shared to Instagram. This time, a written message was posted with "America the Beautiful" playing in the background. He captioned it simply, "A note from Joe. 🇺🇸"

"For more than two decades, I've had the profound honor of hosting the National Memorial Day Concert, an experience that has meant more to me than words can properly express," Mantegna began. "Year after year, standing in our nation's capital and helping honor the courage, sacrifice, and service of our military heroes and their families has been one of the greatest privileges of my life."

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The 78-year-old actor went on to say that he had "hoped to close this chapter" with one more year of hosting duties but unfortunately, that did not happen. Instead, he explained, "I could never allow myself to give anything less than my whole heart to something that deserves nothing short of that. As hard as it was to step away, I knew it was time to pass the baton."

While Mantegna was not in attendance this year, he was watching and made sure to compliment the show, calling it a "beautiful and moving broadcast."

The National Memorial Day Concert began in 1989. Each year, on the Sunday before the national holiday, it honors the lives of those who chose military service and their families. This year, the live PBS broadcast included Noah Wyle, Andy Grammer,Alan Jackson, Laura Osnes, and Mickey Guyton.

In 1979, Little River Band released a soft rock anthem that would become one of the group's defining songs.

Four decades later, "Lonesome Loser" experienced an emotional resurgence when former frontman Glenn Shorrock revisited the classic on his 2019 solo album.

Originally written by band member David Briggs, "Lonesome Loser" blended sharp songwriting, soaring harmonies and emotional vulnerability into a song that resonated strongly with listeners during the late 1970s soft rock boom.

The track became one of Little River Band's biggest international hits and helped cement the Australian group's place on American radio alongside acts like Eagles and Fleetwood Mac. Its lyrics about disappointment, insecurity and emotional isolation gave the song a bittersweet depth beneath its polished production and catchy melodies.

Over time, "Lonesome Loser" evolved into one of the band's most recognizable songs and a staple of classic rock and soft rock playlists.

But the song took on added emotional weight in 2019 when Shorrock recorded a new version for his solo album, Glenn Shorrock Sings Little River Band. The project saw the singer revisiting many of the songs most closely tied to his career decades after Little River Band's original rise to fame.

"I basically tried to keep my voice in front rather than letting the harmonies drive the songs, like we did in the band," Shorrock told Billboard. "I left out a lot of the a cappella harmonies we did, like on 'Lonesome Loser.' I just wanted it to be a little more funky and modern sounding."

The revisit carried a particularly poignant undertone because of the complicated history surrounding the band's legacy and lineup changes over the years. Disputes over the Little River Band name and ownership had long created tension between former members and the touring version of the group that continued performing without several classic-era musicians.

"We're the only rock band in history where all of the originals are in one camp and the people that own the name, with no originals, are in the other," singer Graeham Goble told Ultimate Classic Rock.

For many longtime fans, hearing Shorrock return to "Lonesome Loser" felt both nostalgic and bittersweet, a reminder of the original chemistry that helped make the song timeless in the first place.

Even 40 years after its release, the track's themes of loneliness and perseverance continued to resonate.

Today, "Lonesome Loser" remains one of Little River Band’s most enduring classics, a soft rock anthem whose emotional honesty has only deepened with time.

Related: 1972 Rock Classic, Originally Written During Iconic World Tour, Became a Road Trip Anthem

For four seasons, Star Trek: Strange New Worlds has built a reputation for unique takes including a musical episode, an animated crossover with Lower Decks, a mock-documentary, a Clue-style holodeck murder mystery. But when producers revealed at San Diego Comic-Con 2025 that Season 4 would include a puppet episode featuring the crew of the USS Enterprise reimagined in felt by Jim Henson's Creature Shop, some fans stopped laughing and started worrying. Now, eight weeks before the July 23 premiere on Paramount+, the showrunners have finally answered the question fans have been debating since that first look at a puppet version of Captain Christopher Pike staring out from the captain's chair. Namely, how does this actually happen?

In a new interview with Polygon, executive producers Alex Kurtzman and Akiva Goldsman confirmed what many suspected; it starts with a transporter. Kurtzman described 'an unexpected and terrible transporter accident' as the mechanism that transforms Pike (played by Anson Mount) into a felt version of himself. Fans probably saw this coming, as transporter malfunctions have been a Star Trek staple since the original series, most famously splitting Captain Kirk into good and evil halves in 1966's 'The Enemy Within.' What Season 4 is doing, Kurtzman and Goldsman said, is taking that reliable device and using it for something the franchise has genuinely never attempted before.

The episode is directed by Jordan Canning, who previously helmed 'Spock Amok,' 'Charades,' and 'Wedding Bell Blues' across SNW's first three seasons, and all puppetwork was created by Jim Henson's Creature Shop, the same studio behind the Muppets and Fraggle Rock. Canning also directed 'Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock' for Apple TV+, which likely made her the natural fit for the project.

What Kurtzman and Goldsman made clear is that 'natural fit' did not mean 'easy'. According to the producers, the puppet episode turned out to be harder to make than any episode the show has produced, including the Season 2 animated crossover with Lower Decks, which required blending live-action performance with full animation. Goldsman and Kurtzman said what made it work was genuine enthusiasm from both the Strange New Worlds production crew and the Creature Shop puppeteers, who turned out to be devoted Star Trek fans themselves.

Related: The Scariest 'Star Trek' Episodes Ever Made, Ranked

Fan reaction to the original SDCC teaser was divided with some fans celebrating the gonzo ambition, and others pushing back on what they saw as the show prioritizing stunts over story in its final stretch. With Season 4's premiere now weeks away and a fifth and final six-episode season following in 2027, that debate isn't going away. The cast has only added fuel. At CCXP Mexico City in May, Celia Rose Gooding described the remaining seasons as having 'final boss energy,' a phrase that sent Trek fans immediately to their keyboards.

Whether the puppet episode is the gimmick that breaks the spell or the episode that proves Strange New Worlds may have gone too far, that question won't be answered until July 23. But fans finally know where it starts; somewhere between the transporter pad and a very bad day for Captain Pike.

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The Boys has come to an end after five wonderful seasons, and now you’re probably looking for something that will fill the void. Is there anything as wild and wacky as this Eric Kripke series?

Well, when it comes to TV shows, that can be debated. When it comes to books, there are some excellent ways to spend the time you have on your hands while waiting for Vought Rising.

Of course, the graphic novels the TV series was based on is one of the best places to start. A lot was adapted to create something unique, including the gender of characters and even the inclusion (or lack of inclusion) of some characters! You’ve likely read the set, though, because you wanted to get an idea of what to expect on the show.

So, I have five other great books to check out. Some of them are graphic novels, and some of them are literary prose that will become your next obsession.

‘Marshal Law’ by Pat Mills and Kevin O’Neill

If you need something as close to The Boys as possible, then you’ll want to check out the graphic novel Marshal Law by Pat Mills and Kevin O’Neill. It even includes superheroes!

Marshal Lawis set in a dystopian San Francisco called San Fruturo, which was rebuilt after a huge earthquake rocked the city. Of course, in this satirical graphic novel, genetic engineering has created a class of over-powered superheroes who are just as corrupt as you would expect. When someone gets power, they tend to be corrupted by it!

The titular character has been hired by the government in an attempt to police these superheroes. There is some extreme graphic violence and nudity just like you came to expect from The Boys.

‘Invincible’ by Robert Kirkman

The second graphic novel on the list has also been turned into a Prime Video series. This series has kept its graphic novel-type of animation to tell the story, but it’s often just as wild and as violent as The Boys. So, it makes sense to check out the comic series from Robert Kirkman as well.

Invincible follows Mark Grayson, who has grown up knowing that he would eventually come into his powers. However, those powers still haven’t formed, and his father, who happens to be one of the world’s most beloved heroes, Omni-Man, is disappointed. Once he does develop his powers, he ends up having to live up to high expectations.

This isn’t just a story of corrupt superheroes and trying to do the right thing. It’s also a story of growing up and trying to live up to parental expectations. While Mark may be a superhero, he struggles with issues that we can all relate to.

‘Steelheart’ by Brandon Sanderson

Once you start reading Steelheart, you’ll want to read the rest of the novels in Brandon Sanderson’sThe Reckoners YA series. The first book is just a great place to start in Sanderson’s long list of novels to his name.

This is another story set in the post-apocalyptic world where superheroes roam. This came from an event known as Calamity, where random people were given god-like powers, and they’ve since become known as “Epics.” Many of them have chosen the dark side, enslaving or preying on the rest of humanity, which led to the collapse of traditional governments.

When a young orphaned may decides that he can’t live in the world that has been created, he joins a group that is killing Epics. Like Hughie on The Boys, he will do anything to get revenge against the Epic called Steelheart for the death of his father years earlier.

‘The Future’ by Naomi Alderman

Do you want to step away from the superheroes for a little while? There are still ways to get these dystopian worlds that are full of corrupt and powerful people. The Future by Naomi Alderman is one of those worlds. 

In this world, billionaires have hoarded resources to the point that civilization is crumbling. Lai Zhen and Martha Einkorn have to figure out how to just live their lives in this dystopian landscape, while finding ways that they can make things better.

There’s an uncomfortably dark element to the story, as it feels a lot more real than other stories of corruption we’ve covered on this list so far. There’s a lot to consider when it comes to how the wealthy control the majority, despite being in the minority. I would urge you to be in the right mindset for this tale.

‘Dungeon Crawler Carl’ by Matt Dinniman

Are you ready for an absolutely wild series that will become your next obsession? As much as you think yes, I will tell you that you’re not ready for the LitRPG that is Dungeon Crawler Carl by Matt Dinniman. No matter how much you prepare, you will not be ready for just how much one man and his ex-girlfriend’s cat will take over your life.

Dungeon Crawler Carlis the first in a planned 10-book series. There are eight books out so far, and each book is just as epic as the last. You’re transported into a world where aliens have taken over and placed all the humans into a video game. There’s an AI that takes over, showrunners who are trying to control the reality series going on, and spectators who are voting, cheering, and wanting to see people die!

This is perfect for The Boys fans who just loved how wild the first season was. It’s also the best option for Ready Player One fans and anyone who loves video games and shows like Survivor. I don’t think there’s anyone who will hate the story, unless you hate wacky!