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Carlos Mencia’s $8.7M Tax Case Has Fans Saying the Irony Is Writing Itself

Wed, 06/24/2026 - 9:55am

Comedian Carlos Mencia is facing a new legal battle after pleading not guilty to 12 felony charges accusing him of failing to report or pay taxes on more than $8 million in earnings — and fans online are already turning the headline into their own punchlines.

Mencia, 58, appeared behind glass during his arraignment in a Los Angeles County courtroom on Monday, where a judge reduced his bail from $250,000 to $50,000, the Associated Press reports. He had spent several days in custody following his arrest before posting bail, according to court records.

The charges include six felony counts of allegedly failing to file personal income tax returns with the intent to evade taxes from 2019 through 2024, along with six related corporate tax counts. Prosecutors allege Mencia earned approximately $8.7 million during that period and owes more than $300,000 in state taxes.

As news of the case spread, fans flooded social media with reactions — many pointing to what they viewed as a strange full-circle moment involving the comedian’s own career and the public scrutiny surrounding him.

"Everyone making the exact same joke about Carlos Mencia is the exact level of irony I love to see in comedy," someone remarked on Threads, with another adding, "But what if we touched on the joke theft thing? Had anyone approached it from that angle yet?"

Another commenter wrote, "Carlos Mencia got away with stealing jokes for so long he thought he could get away with stealing from the government."

Nearly 20 years ago, Mencia became the center of a comedy-world controversy after podcaster Joe Rogan accused him of stealing jokes — a moment that led to their infamous onstage confrontation at The Comedy Store.

Mencia denied the allegation, telling LatiNation in 2019: “At this point, when you took the road I took, you have to commit to it,” he said. “A really good friend of mine said I should call Joe and make up because he has got a really good podcast. And I said, ‘What am I supposed to say to someone who accused me of stealing jokes, but not his, and he’s the one who’s tried to ruin my career?’ I never tried to ruin his career. I don’t know how to address that.” 

Rogan later reflected on that incident during a conversation with the late comedian Bob Saget, sharing that he had moved beyond his anger toward Mencia. But he admitted, “I was angry,” he said via The Hollywood Reporter.  “I put all that time into that place, and that Mencia thing — I thought we were doing the right thing. I thought that was a real problem.”

Mencia faces 11 years in prison if convicted of all 12 counts.

1977 Country Album Made History With a Record No Woman Had Achieved Before

Wed, 06/24/2026 - 9:55am

In the summer of 1977, a country singer known for her floor-length hair quietly made music history.

When Crystal Gayle released We Must Believe in Magic on June 24, 1977, the album wasn't expected to become a landmark achievement. But over the next few years, it would accomplish something no female country artist had ever done before: earn platinum certification for selling more than one million copies.

The record became Gayle's, 75, biggest commercial success, reaching No. 2 on Billboard's Country Albums chart and crossing over to the mainstream by climbing to No. 12 on the Billboard 200.

Much of that success came from one song.

RELATED: The Surprising Truth Behind LeAnn Rimes’ ‘Blue’

The album featured "Don't It Make My Brown Eyes Blue," a smooth, pop-leaning ballad written by Richard Leigh that became Gayle's signature hit. The song topped the country charts, reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned Grammy recognition, helping introduce Gayle to audiences far beyond country radio.

While country music had produced plenty of female stars before 1977, few had broken through on the same commercial level as major pop acts.

We Must Believe in Magic changed that.

The album blended traditional country storytelling with polished production and crossover appeal, arriving at a time when artists like Gayle were helping expand the genre's reach. Songs such as "Ready for the Times to Get Better" and "River Road" further showcased her warm, understated vocal style.

Of course, Gayle was already part of country music royalty. Born Brenda Gail Webb in Kentucky, she was the younger sister of country legend Loretta Lynn. Early in her career, comparisons to Lynn were unavoidable, but Gayle eventually forged her own identity by embracing a smoother, more contemporary sound.

That decision paid off.

By becoming the first female country artist to earn a platinum album, Gayle opened doors for future generations of women in country music, proving they could compete on the same commercial stage as anyone else.

Nearly five decades later, We Must Believe in Magic remains one of country music's most important crossover albums.

RELATED: 69 Years Ago, Patsy Cline Performed the Song That Made Her a Star

Lionel Messi Turns 39 Amid Historic World Cup

Wed, 06/24/2026 - 9:50am

Lionel Messi turned 39 while standing atop World Cup history, becoming the all-time leading scorer in the tournament after a record-breaking performance for Argentina at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Argentina captain scored twice in a 2-0 victory over Austria in Dallas, raising his World Cup total to 18 goals and moving past Germany legend Miroslav Klose. The win also secured Argentina's place in the knockout stage.

Argentina's victory extended the team's winning streak in the World Cup to eight matches since its opening loss to Saudi Arabia in 2022. Messi has scored all five of Argentina's goals in the current tournament.

Born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina, Messi is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers ever.

He currently plays for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer and captains the Argentina national team.

Lionel Messi #10 of Argentina arrives before the FIFA World Cup 2026 match.

Photo by Maja Hitij - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

Over a professional career that began with Barcelona in 2004, Messi has collected eight Ballon d'Or awards, six European Golden Shoes and a record 46 team trophies. He helped Argentina win the 2022 FIFA World Cup and later added the 2024 Copa América title.

Despite the personal milestone, Messi kept the focus on Argentina's progress in the tournament.

"Beyond anything I'm so happy for the win," Messi said, according to ESPN. "It was huge, tough and difficult. It would allow us to be relaxed to what's ahead. All matches in this World Cup are very even, very intense. I'm enjoying this moment and craving to enjoy with my teammates."

Off the field, Messi remains focused on family life with wife Antonela Roccuzzo and their three sons, Thiago, Mateo and Ciro.

Roccuzzo and the children recently attended Argentina's World Cup match wearing the national team's No. 10 jersey as Messi continued his pursuit of more records.

Messi has often spoken about how fatherhood changed his outlook.

“You grow and you learn. You gather experience in all aspects of life, on and off the field,” Messi said. “But, as a human being, having three children changed my perspective on life, my way of thinking and it also helped me grow.”

At 39, Messi continues to lead his country while chasing another World Cup title. His latest record confirms that two decades after scoring his first World Cup goal in 2006, he is still rewriting football history.

Related: Lionel Messi Didn't Make It Alone—Meet the Family Behind His Success

Viewers 'Disgusted and Sickened' by Jimmy Fallon Over Controversial 'Tonight Show' Guest Conor McGregor: 'You Should Be Ashamed'

Wed, 06/24/2026 - 9:42am

Jimmy Fallon is undergoing some major scrutiny after inviting controversial MMA fighter Conor McGregor on a recent episode of The Tonight Show.

Formerly known as the UFC's biggest star in the mid to late 2010s, the 37-year-old McGregor has been embroiled in several serious controversies over the past few years.

Perhaps most seriously, the former UFC champion was found liable for the 2018 sexual assault of Nikita Hand, one of several prominent scandals involving the polarizing MMA veteran (via EPSN).

Despite these serious allegations and various legal battles over his behavior, McGregor was invited to appear on The Tonight Show to promote his upcoming return to the ring. At UFC 329 on July 11, the 37-year-old will compete in his first MMA match since 2021, brawling against fellow UFC veteran Max Holloway.

Though McGregor discussed a variety of topics on The Tonight Show with host Jimmy Fallon, much of viewers' scrutiny surrounded what went unsaid, with many calling out NBC, Fallon and the backstage crew of The Tonight Show for inviting McGregor onto the show in the first place.

"As an Irish person who has been watching Fallon for many years now and always loved him, I won't be watching him anymore," one irate fan wrote on YouTube. "I'm absolutely disgusted and sickened to the pit of my stomach that you would have this despicable monster on your show. I can't fathom how anyone thought having this vile, total embarrassment, to Ireland on the show was a good idea."

"So accusations ruin lives, but convictions get you a gig on a late night show?" said another fan. "This is gross."

"So this is the message we’re sending to young boys? That you can abuse women and still be welcomed as a guest on a major talk show? Great example, Jimmy," echoed a third.

Other prominent critics of Fallon's decision was '90s super star Christina Ricci, who reshared a post on her Instagram denouncing McGregor's interview on The Tonight Show.

"“Why the absolute f**k is this piece of human garbage being given a platform on Jimmy Fallon’s show?" the reshared post read. "Shame on you, Jimmy.” 

A rep for Fallon did not immediately respond to Parade's request for comment.

Taylor Swift Shocks Fans With Surprise Duet Alongside Chart-Topping Country Superstar

Wed, 06/24/2026 - 9:41am

Taylor Swift's appearance at Travis Kelce's latest event was already enough to excite fans. Then she took things a step further.

Amid the wedding buzz, the pop star, 36, joined her fiancé at Tight End University for the second year in a row, supporting Kelce, George Kittle, and Greg Olsen at the opening night of their annual three-day training camp in Nashville on Tuesday, June 23.

The evening also featured the Tight Ends & Friends Concert, presented by Sports Illustrated and Reese's, with surprise sets from Dan + Shay, Lainey Wilson, and Chase Rice rounding out the bill. However, the show-stopping moment of the night came when Swift performed "Love Story" and invited Wilson to join her for a special duet.

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With a smile, the singer told the crowd that a "very special tight end," Kittle, had specifically requested the song, making the moment even more meaningful.

The star-studded gathering brought together NFL tight ends, family members, and friends, but it also featured a milestone moment for Swift, who performed "Love Story" publicly for the first time since Kelce proposed last summer.

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The memorable night extended well beyond Swift's surprise performance. Speaking to PEOPLE on June 23, Kittle seemingly nodded to the couple's impending wedding while praising the singer. "She's just such an awesome person to give us her time this close to their wedding. So, we're just so thankful that they're here," he said.

Kittle also confirmed that he and his wife, Claire Kittle, scored an invite to the wedding, and he wasn't shy about trying to get details out of the groom-to-be.

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce

(Photo by XNY/Star Max/GC Images)

He revealed he asked Kelce point-blank about the rumors that the couple plans to tie the knot at Madison Square Garden. "I asked Travis last night," he told ET, adding that he and his wife still don't know the location. "And he laughed at me."

Gray-Haired Beauty Patricia Heaton, 68, Dances in a Bathing Suit After Clapping Back at the Haters

Wed, 06/24/2026 - 9:38am

Patricia Heaton is embracing summer in a bathing suit, and she's not taking anything from the haters!

Heaton starred in Everybody Loves Raymond, which ran for nine seasons from September 13, 1996, to May 16, 2005. The series, which won endless awards during its run, followed Ray Romano as sportswriter and family man, Ray Barone, as he lives on Long Island with his wife, Debra, played by Heaton. Ray’s meddling parents, Marie and Frank, played by Doris Roberts and Peter Boyle, live across the street with their older son, Robert, played by Brad Garrett.

These days, Heaton has made serious waves for her social media prowess. In a new Instagram Reel, the star steps into summer in a black bathing suit with her lush gray hair in soft waves.

"Here comes the sun," Heaton captioned the reel, which showed her ditching a hat, puffy coat, flannel pants, and boots for a black bathing suit and chunky espadrille sandals.

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Heaton Fought Back at Hair Haters

In her post-Raymond life, Heaton keeps getting better and better. The actress has ditched her brown hair to let her natural gray hair shine through, showing off a look that’s absolutely stunning and is being embraced by actresses across Hollywood. From Hilarie Burton to Lorraine Bracco, the gray-haired queens are taking over, and we love to see it. However, that doesn't mean Heaton hasn't fielded any comments from the peanut gallery.

In a recent Instagram Reel, Heaton fought back against the haters who had plenty of criticism about her decision to embrace her gray hair.

"Some of you seem very concerned about the silver in my hair," Heaton said. "But let me just say: there's some things that come along in life that I've just decided to embrace, and that doesn't include boxed hair dye."

Heaton continued, "The people in my life love me no matter what color my hair is, and maybe we could all use a little more of just accepting what is and being grateful."

Check out the reel below:

View this post on Instagram Heaton Loves Herself at Any Age

The TV star celebrated her 68th birthday back in March with a stunning photo featuring a caption that read, “might start acting my age this year. nah.” We love to see it!

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Related: Patricia Heaton Is a Gray-Haired Goddess in 68th Birthday Photo: ‘Might Start Acting My Age This Year'

‘Brady Bunch’ Star Reveals Why Her Sticker-Covered Childhood Door Became a Museum Piece 50 Years Later

Wed, 06/24/2026 - 9:36am

Eve Plumb spent most of her childhood as a booked and busy working actress, but she still found time to be a kid.

In a recent interview, the actress, best known as Jan Brady from The Brady Bunch, revealed that one of her favorite hobbies in the 1970s was collecting novelty stickers. And she even has a door to prove it.

Several years ago, Plumb, now 68, donated her sticker-adorned bedroom door to Tommy Gelinas of the non-profit Valley Relics Museum in Van Nuys, California. The museum features a plethora of pop culture memorabilia from the San Fernando Valley, and Plumb’s retro door fits right in with the theme.

In a recent interview with Spectrum 1 News host Alison Martino, Plumb explained why she decided to donate her door to the museum.

“My wonderful husband, when we were selling my parents' house, decided to save that door,” Plumb shared. “My parents let me put stickers on my door, they, you know, they just wanted me to be a kid. And then I found out about the Valley Relics Museum, and I thought this is perfect because I would wear surfer t-shirts and, you know, long blonde hair, and was pretty much one of the original Valley girls.”

Plumb shared a look at  the stickers on the door, including a scratch-and-sniff sticker from the ‘70s pop-rock band The Raspberries, Wacky Packages and Mad Magazine stickers, and a groovy message to “Hang Loose.”

As for what led to her adorned door, Plumb wrote in her memoir Happiness Included, “My parents allowed me to plaster my door with bumper stickers because my mother didn’t want them on the car.”

RELATED: Eve Plumb Opens Up About One of Her Saddest TV Roles

This wasn’t the first time Plumb talked about her childhood door. When she first donated the door years ago, she went to the museum with Martino to tape a segment for Vintage Los Angeles.

She explained, “This is the door from my childhood home in Van Nuys. My parents built houses in Toluca Lake and in Van Nuys, and I grew up in the Van Nuys house. And when we sold the house, we decided to hang on to this. My parents were very indulgent in letting me put stickers on my door when I was a teenager, while I was doing The Brady Bunch, my mother would save things.”

Plumb pointed to a name plate, most likely from a Brady Bunch wrap party, as well as a, eclectic mix of stickers she collected in the 1970s.

“Some of these are really old stickers that I would collect when the Brady kids were on tour, and I would do it as a memento,” Plumb shared. “I was a big comic book fan and Mad Magazine, Cracked magazine, so it was a hobby. I guess some girls have charm for bracelets, I had stickers.”

Related: Eve Plumb Reveals Real-Life Davy Jones Connection Behind Iconic ‘Brady Bunch’ Episode

'DWTS' Pros Val Chmerkovskiy and Jenna Johnson Announce Major Family Milestone: 'Been Hard to Keep This Secret'

Wed, 06/24/2026 - 9:27am

Dancing With the Stars husband-and-wife duo Val Chmerkovskiy and Jenna Johnsonare making moves off the dance floor.

On Tuesday, Johnson took to Instagram sharing that the couple, who have been married for seven years, just bought a house.

"Been hard to keep this secret but soooo excited for this next chapter," Johnson captioned a sweet video of the couple and their son Rome in their new backyard. "Can’t believe we move in less than a week!!!"

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And it immediately became clear that their DWTS peers were going to be their first house guests.

"Congratulations you guys!!!! Can’t wait to come over," fellow pro Emma Slater commented while former contestant and now major DWTS presence Danielle Fishel echoed, "Congratulations!! V v exciting. We can't wait to come over and swim!"

Maks Chmerkovskiy, brother to Val and former DWTS pro also commented, "Love you guys! Congratulations!"

Other dancers including Alan Bersten, Daniella Karagach, Hayley Erbert, and Pasha Pashkov also wished the couple well on their new chapter.

However, some fans took it a few steps further and were quick to start planning the couple's future.

"Congrats! You know what they say….New House New Baby….lol" while another similarly said, "Congratulations Parentals, I feel Bebe #2 in the near future."

Related: 'DWTS' Pro Jenna Johnson Talks Dream Celebrity Dance Partners and Her Viral Abs

Already parents to 3-year-old Rome, the couple regularly documents their time with him, which recently included taking him along for the DWTS live tour earlier this year.

“These past couple of months have been some of my favorite watching my little boy grow and learn from his surroundings,” Johnson captioned an Instagram gallery of photos in March. “There was concern that taking him on the road with us would hinder him and his routine/development but I can attest the exact opposite!!!...Yes it can be exhausting, yes his schedule looks different from when we are home, but what a once in a lifetime opportunity for him!”

As for what's next for what's next for the parents, and Rome, too, perhaps it's some interior decorating ahead of the dancers gearing up for Season 35 of the ballroom dance competition show.

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Rock Icon Behind One of Music's Biggest Bands Turns 79 Today

Wed, 06/24/2026 - 9:25am

In 1947, one of rock's most iconic drummers who would lead Fleetwood Mac was born.

Michael "Mick" John Kells Fleetwood was born in Redruth, Cornwall, but spent the majority of his childhood in Egypt and Norway. He became a self-taught drummer from an early age after his parents saw his potential as a musician. At only 15-years old, he decided to pursue his passion for music and ventured to London, where he would co-found Fleetwood Mac alongside Peter Green, Jeremy Spencer, and Bob Brunning.

At the start of the rock band's career, they released multiple albums, but it wasn't until Fleetwood and the others moved to America that they cemented themselves in the music scene. Soon after the inclusion of Lindsey Buckingham andStevie Nicks in 1974, after some of the original members left, the band reached a breakthrough.

Their tenth studio album, Fleetwood Mac, became a No. 1 album on the charts, with the co-founder serving as the band's steady rhythmic backbone. The band soon shifted gears to a more polished rock direction that set the stage for their landmark follow-up, Rumors, in 1977.

The album became a rock genre staple, releasing ballads and hit tracks that dominated the charts and became lasting anthems." "Dreams" became notoriously known for having been written during troubling times for the band, with multiple breakups and Fleetwood going through a divorce. The track became a No.1 show-stopper at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 charts. Fleetwood Mac would soon release other staple hits like "Go Your Own Way" and "The Chain" that cemented them as global superstars.

“Fleetwood Mac has been pretty truthful. Open about what we do. We’ve always done it from the inside out. Versus being pressured from the outside and changing the inside. And that’s our story," said Fleetwood, according to American Songwriter.

Behind the personal chaos among the band and creative tensions, Fleetwood remained a constant force that held them together. As their co-founder and leader, he was known for anchoring the sound through some of the most turbulent recording sessions and feuds. Over the decades, he became the only member to appear in every lineup of the band.

“Mick is the one who keeps us all together. Without him, there is no Fleetwood Mac," said Nicks.

Buckingham once said, "If Mick is playing well, the whole band is playing well. He sets the tone for everything.”

Amid the band's success, Fleetwood ventured into his own personal projects as a solo artist and would even play drums for many of his bandmates' own records. He even co-authored Fleetwood—My Life and Adventures with Fleetwood Mac about his interactions with other music icons, his affair with Nicks, his cocaine addiction, and even bankruptcy.

In 1998, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame alongside the band, and has been a member since 1967. The band ended their run in 2022 following the death of Christine McVie.

Related: 1974 Rock Ballad, Inspired by an Unconventional Love Story, Became a Soft Rock Anthem

‘Miami Vice’ Icon Don Johnson, 76, Is a Silver Fox on the Red Carpet 37 Years After the Show Ended

Wed, 06/24/2026 - 9:19am

Don Johnson is back on the red carpet, more than 37 years after his iconic role on Miami Vice ended.

The beloved actor, 76, is best known for his roles as Detective Sonny Crockett on the hit '80s NBC series Miami Vice. However, he also made waves in the '90s in the title role of the San Francisco cop series Nash Bridges. More recently, he appeared in the hit film Knives Out and the TV series Doctor Odyssey. The TV legend made a rare red carpet appearance this week at the Los Angeles premiere of the HBO Original series Life, Larry and The Pursuit of Unhappiness at the Hollywood Legion Theater. Look dapper and stylish with gray hair, the star supported his friend Larry David at the series premiere. He's looking good as a silver fox!

Photo by Leon Bennett on Getty Images

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Don Johnson Has 5 Children

While The Materialists star Dakota Johnson may be the most famous of his kids, Johnson has four others he's incredibly proud of. In 2024, Johnson shared a video of his sons all playing guitar together. He captioned the photo, "All of my Son's have guitar's in their hands…Thanksgiving's ho down!"

Check out the fun video of the harmonious crew singing "Blue Sky" by the Allman Brothers Band below.

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While 5 may be a handful, the actor has made it clear that he loves being surrounded by the activity.

"I love kids, so it's more good times, more joy and more fun. It's no less exciting this time than it was the first time," Johnson told OK! Magazine following the birth of his youngest son in 2006, PEOPLE reported.

Celebrating His Birthday

Last year, Johnson's wife, Kelley Johnson, took to Instagram to celebrate the star's 76th birthday. Smiling with a balloon in his hand that read "Holy Cow! Another birthday!" Johnson looked at the camera joyfully. But the best part was that his wife set the video to Johnson's 1986 hit, "Heartbeat." That's right: Johnson released an album!

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Related: Melanie Griffith, 68, Is More Stunning Than Ever on the Red Carpet 38 Years After ‘Working Girl'

HBO Max Adds Another Chapter to the 'Adventure Time' Saga With New Spin-Off

Wed, 06/24/2026 - 9:18am

A new Adventure Time spinoff is coming soon!

At the Warner Bros. Animation, Cartoon Network Studios, and Hanna-Barbera Studios Europe showcase at the Annecy Animation Festival on Wednesday, June 24, the news was announced.

"Adventure Time: Bubblegum and Marceline” will follow "Princess Bubblegum and Marceline the Vampire Queen journey across the farthest reaches of Ooo, encountering familiar faces and new dangers," according to a logline shared with Variety. The network plans to produce a 10-episode first season.

This news comes after the success of the other spinoffs, including Adventure Time: Fionna and Cake and Adventure Time: Distant Lands. Adam Muto will continue to serve as the showrunner and executive producer.

“Continuing in the spirit of ‘Fionna & Cake,’ I’m excited that the next ‘Adventure Time’ series will feature two more of my favorite characters: Bubblegum & Marceline,” Muto shared in a statement. “It’s been a fantastic opportunity to revisit old friends and build onto the world of ‘Adventure Time.’”

“We can’t wait to see where Adam’s boundless imagination takes us in this new series. It’s such a joy to go on another ‘Adventure Time’ journey with our friends and partners at Cartoon Network Studios,” Amy Gravitt, executive vice president at HBO & HBO Max Comedy Programming, added.

Sam Register, president of Warner Bros. Animation and Cartoon Network Studios, also expressed his excitement for the new project.

“’Adventure Time’ remains one of the most inventive and beloved worlds in animation," he shared. "Alongside our partners at HBO Max, we’re thrilled to continue expanding that universe with Adam and his incredibly talented team.”

According to Variety, the show was greenlit two months ago and is currently being written.

This news comes as Adventure Time: Side Quests is set to premiere on June 29, starring Sasha Knight and returning voice actors John DiMaggio, Olivia Olson, Hynden Walch, Niki Yang and Tom Kenny.

Adventure Time originally ran from 2010 to 2018 on Cartoon Network.

Amazon’s 'Lightweight' and 'Breathable' $19 Cotton-Linen Pants Are a Summer Lounging Staple

Wed, 06/24/2026 - 9:15am

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When it comes to getting dressed in the heat, linen is one of the few fabrics that consistently delivers. It’s lightweight, breathable, and has a flowy drape that makes even the hottest days feel a little more manageable. The catch is that linen tops, bottoms, and yes, even sheets, usually come at a higher price point, which can make it feel like more of a splurge than a staple.

That’s why this Amazon Prime Day deal stands out. The Puimentiua Cotton-Linen Drawstring Pants — which shoppers call a “summer essential” — are currently priced as low as $19, marked 37% off the usual $30 price. With a relaxed, jogger fit and an airy cotton-linen blend fabric, they’re designed to stay cool, wear easily, and work across everything from travel days to everyday errands.

Puimentiua Cotton-Linen Drawstring Pants, From $19 (was $30) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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Made from a breathable blend of 55% cotton and 45% linen, these pants feature a tapered silhouette that stays roomy through the hips and thighs before narrowing toward the ankle for a more tailored finish than traditional wide-leg linen styles. The waistband is thoughtfully designed with a smooth, flat front, an elasticized back panel, and an adjustable drawstring tie that lets you customize the fit without adding bulk. 

Two functional side pockets provide space for everyday essentials, while decorative back pockets add structure and visual interest. The fabric has a textured, naturally lived-in look, and the lighter hues of the seven color options include an added lining for extra coverage. These breezy pants are available in sizes X-small through XX-large.

You’re sure to reach for this pair all summer long, as they work in so many settings. Pair them with a fitted tank, striped tee, or button-down for everyday wear, then swap in a breezy blouse for dinner or vacation outings. 

The tapered shape of these pants also makes them easy to style with everything from flat sandals and sneakers to espadrilles, while the cropped ankle length helps show off your footwear. They're “great for travel” according to shoppers, with a “relaxed, easy fit that doesn’t feel restrictive at all” through hours of sitting on a plane, train, or in the car.

Shoppers loved these “easy-to-wear” pants right out of the package, saying they’re “very cool for hot summer days.”  One shopper wrote, “The fabric is lightweight and breathable [and] the elastic waistband with drawstring is nice because it lets you adjust the fit comfortably without digging in.”

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Related: Walmart's 'Soft' and 'Breathable' $12 Linen-Blend Pants Are 'Perfect for Summer'

For days when shorts aren’t the answer, the $19 Puimentiua Linen Drawstring Pants step up to the plate. Shop them at Amazon now while they’re 37% off for Prime Day!

Why It’s Already Time to Start Planning Your 2028 Bucket-List Polar Expedition

Wed, 06/24/2026 - 9:10am

For dedicated bucket-list travelers, there's a certain category of travel that requires a level of planning far beyond a standard Caribbean cruise or a quick European getaway. Polar expeditions to the ends of the earth—where ice conditions dictate the daily itinerary and wildlife encounters are completely wild—have traditionally required booking up to a year in advance.

Now, the luxury polar leader is smashing its own scheduling records to give travelers the ultimate head start. Quark Expeditions just officially launched its Arctic 2028 and Antarctic 2028/2029 seasons, marking the earliest booking window the company has ever opened in its 35-year history. Offering more than 70 departures across both poles, the massive drop is specifically designed to give discerning travelers ample time to secure highly coveted cabins and plan incredibly complex, multi-week itineraries.

"What makes the polar regions so powerful is that no two experiences are ever the same," says Sam Seward, President of Quark Expeditions. "This season gives travelers even more opportunities to engage with these destinations through exploration, learning, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences, while staying true to the spirit of adventure that has defined Quark Expeditions for more than 35 years."

Related: 6 Best Cruises for Active Travelers, According to Experts

Picture-Perfect Polar Photography

One of the most exciting additions to the newly unveiled season is the brand-new Guided Photography Program, designed specifically for travelers who want to return home with National Geographic-quality images rather than simple smartphone snapshots. Polar photography is notoriously challenging due to the blinding glare of glacial ice, rapidly shifting weather, and unpredictable wildlife movements. To solve this, Quark's new program limits excursions to just 16 participants per group, each led by a dedicated Lead Photo Guide who knows exactly how to shoot in extreme conditions.

The program is structured around a deliberate "learn-shoot-share" cadence throughout the voyage, featuring daily technical workshops and evening image reviews back on the ship. Best of all, guests on these dedicated photography tracks get priority Zodiac positioning when cruising past towering blue icebergs or lounging leopard seals, ensuring optimal field angles. The excursions are also intentionally slower-paced, allowing photographers to linger at a specific site to wait for the perfect light rather than feeling rushed to keep up with a standard hiking group.

Related: Princess Just Opened Bookings for Its Rare Antarctica 'Overnight' Cruises

Seamless Pre- and Post-Cruise Adventures

In another major first for the company, Quark is introducing an exclusive collection of Expedition Extensions. These curated, land-based itineraries are available before or after select voyages, allowing travelers to seamlessly maximize their time in the spectacular gateway regions that serve as the launching pads for polar travel. Instead of merely spending a night in a standard airport hotel before boarding, you can now add a fully guided luxury exploration of the dramatic granite peaks in Patagonia's Torres del Paine National Park, or stand before the thundering curtains of Iguazu Falls. For those heading north to the Arctic, the extensions offer everything from immersive wellness and thermal spa experiences in the remote forests of Finland to deep, privately guided journeys through Iceland's smoking volcanic landscapes.

Related: Whale Watchers Have a New Bucket-List Attraction Opening in Norway Next Summer

Untamed Passages and Indigenous Flavors

For seasoned polar alumni looking for entirely fresh territory, the Arctic 2028 season features a brand-new Canadian Arctic voyage that charts a course directly through the legendary, remote Northwest Passage. This ultra-exclusive itinerary expands traveler access to some of the least-visited waterways on earth, taking guests deep into Lancaster Sound and the tiny, historic hamlet of Arctic Bay to experience the vast, silent beauty of the True North.

The northern itineraries are also celebrating the highly anticipated return of Tundra to Table, a highly sought-after culinary and cultural storytelling experience available on select voyages aboard the technologically advanced ship, Ultramarine. Co-developed in a tight-knit partnership with the Greenlandic chef collective Igapall, the program invites guests to indulge in rare regional ingredients and ancestral dishes prepared by local Indigenous chefs, transforming dinner into an intimate exploration of Northern heritage.

Whether you're looking to helicopter out to the rarely visited Emperor Penguin colony at Snow Hill Island, participate in live whale-identification citizen science alongside marine biologists from UC San Diego, or sample local culinary traditions under the midnight sun, this record-breaking early launch ensures you won't have to compromise on your dream cabin or your perfect itinerary.

Related: The Arctic Is Topping Retirement Bucket Lists—And a New Way to Explore It Is Changing the Game

Reba McEntire's Signature Song Was First Recorded by Another Country Star

Wed, 06/24/2026 - 9:07am

For many country music fans, it's hard to imagine anyone other than Reba McEntire singing "Fancy."

The dramatic story song has become so closely associated with McEntire, 71, that it's often considered her signature hit, a staple of her live shows and one of the defining recordings of her career.

But long before McEntire turned "Fancy" into a country music classic, another artist recorded it first.

The song was written and originally released by Bobbie Gentry in 1969, nearly two decades before McEntire put her own stamp on it. Gentry, 83, best known for her crossover hit "Ode to Billie Joe," wrote "Fancy" as the story of a young woman who escapes poverty after her mother encourages her to seek a better life.

While the song earned attention upon its release, it never became one of Gentry's biggest commercial hits. It reached the country charts and developed a loyal following, but it wasn't until years later that the song would find its largest audience.

That happened in 1990 when McEntire recorded her version for the album Rumor Has It.

Unlike Gentry's more restrained recording, McEntire leaned fully into the song's theatrical storytelling. Accompanied by a dramatic music video and one of the most memorable vocal performances of her career, "Fancy" quickly became a fan favorite.

Interestingly, the song wasn't even the highest-charting single from the album. It peaked at No. 8 on Billboard's Hot Country Singles chart. Yet over time, its popularity only grew.

Today, "Fancy" is widely regarded as one of McEntire's signature songs, often closing her concerts and serving as one of the most requested tracks in her catalog.

McEntire herself has frequently acknowledged Gentry's role in the song's history, never claiming ownership of a story that began with another artist's pen.

Still, her version introduced "Fancy" to an entirely new generation of listeners and helped transform it from a respected album track into a country music institution.

Related: 69 Years Ago, Patsy Cline Performed the Song That Made Her a Star

Leslie Jones Says 'SNL' Typecast Her as 'Angry' and Violent

Wed, 06/24/2026 - 9:07am

Leslie Jones' time on Saturday Night Livewasn't always a laugh.

The comedian, who appeared on five seasons of the NBC sketch comedy show, admitted her tenure on the series was "bittersweet" and "frustrating," as she often felt typecast as "angry" and violent characters during a recent episode of KCRW's The Sam Sanders Show.

"It was kind of frustrating that they would always make me the girl that was angry and beating up people or in love with a white boy," Jones said during the June 12 episode. "They just always would make me angry, or I’m fighting somebody."

Asked how she felt about playing those characters at the time, Jones said that she didn't push back at first, as she "wanted to be on the show" and didn't think that she was being typecast initially, "until it kept happening."

"And then, like, every time I would get a sketch, I was like, 'OK, who am I beating up this week?'" she recalled. "I just started getting frustrated with [the writers]. I was like, ‘Stop writing me like that.’"

Jones said that even after she addressed the issue, she continued to be typecast as the same kind of characters.

"They’re like, ‘This is successful. When you leave here, you’ll be able to make...,’” Jones recalled. “No. I don’t want to be Chevy Chase. I don’t want to be whoever. I want to be Leslie. I want to do everything. And I wanted to go across the board with everything, you know?"

Jones continued that SNL is "the machine that it is," and is unlikely to change because of how "successful" it's been over the years.

The comedian added that while she "loved being" on SNL and had "fun" during her time on the cast, she certainly doesn't miss "the mental part" of the job.

Jones joined SNL in Season 39 and earned two Emmy nominations during her five seasons on the sketch show until she made her exit in 2019.

Target Shoppers Say These Gut-Friendly Drinks Are 'So Good' and 'Refreshing'

Wed, 06/24/2026 - 9:05am

If you are always on the hunt for a bubbly drink that satisfies a classic soda craving without giving you a stomachache, you know how frustrating the beverage aisle can be. Most healthy drinks end up tasting like medicine, or they leave a weird, artificial aftertaste that ruins the whole experience.

But Target just brought a brand called Wildwonder to its shelves nationwide, and it is finally giving shoppers a sparkling drink that hits the sweet spot between a wellness boost and a crisp, everyday refreshment. Instead of a heavy tonic, it drinks like a light, fruit-forward soda with a really clean finish.

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Because it relies on real fruit juices and organic agave instead of high-fructose corn syrup, it cuts out the heavy sugar coating while keeping the satisfying, bubbly bite of a canned drink.

Not Your Average Gut Drink View this post on Instagram

If you look past the colorful packaging, what you are drinking is a blend of ancient herbal medicine and modern gut science. The brand's founder began brewing these drinks using her grandmother's traditional Chinese tonic recipes, which relied heavily on healing herbs such as wild ginger and turmeric.

Each can is essentially a modern version of those heritage remedies, pairing brewed botanicals with real fruit purees to keep the taste authentic. It is the first sparkling beverage on the market to pack both prebiotics (the food) and live probiotics (the good bacteria) into a single can.

Because they use a highly resilient, spore-forming probiotic strain, the beneficial bacteria actually survive the trip to your stomach instead of dying off on the shelf, giving you a functional wellness boost that goes down like a crisp treat.

Related: 5 Best Produce Items To Buy at Trader Joe's (and 4 To Skip)

Flavors Worth Popping Open

Instead of giving you the same basic berry or plain lime flavors you see everywhere, these combinations feel a lot more creative.

Flavors like Strawberry Passion and Mango Gold taste closer to a high-end coffee shop refresher or a real juice blend than a diet drink. Because they use fruit purees and agave, you get a real sweetness without that flat, metallic artificial aftertaste.

The Raspberry Lychee is a massive favorite because it tastes a lot like a tart gummy candy without being a total sugar bomb. Target also has Wildwonder's newest one, Pink Pomelo Limeade, which mixes sharp, zesty citrus with a really subtle floral note from brewed chrysanthemum flowers.

They all have a bright, crisp tartness that works perfectly whether you want to pop the tab or pour it over ice for an easy afternoon mocktail.

What Do Shoppers Think? @liellewaldman17

Target run for a little gut-friendly refresh @wildwonder  🤍 Wildwonder is packed with prebiotics + probiotics and now available nationwide at @target. Find it cold in the refrigerated beverage section within produce. We picked up all the flavors and it’s on sale for $2.99 from June 14–20. #wildwonderpartner

♬ Honey in Transit - Silken Echo

On TikTok, creator @liellewaldman17 tried all flavors, stating that the Mango Gold was "so good," the Pink Pomelo was "delicious," and the Guava Rose was their favorite of the bunch.

Wildwonder's customer reviews on Target show mostly praise for these tasty little sparkling drinks. "Hands down the best probiotic drink I've ever tried," says one Target customer about the Raspberry Lychee flavor, with others saying it was "delicious" and that they "love the taste."

While some may find the drinks a bit on the pricey side, it's worth it if you want a great-tasting soda alternative that actually helps your stomach rather than bloating it.

Related: Costco Shoppers Say These Are the Best Crackers They've Ever Had

Christina Ricci Blasts Jimmy Fallon for Inviting 'Piece of Human Garbage' Conor McGregor onto 'Tonight Show': 'Shame on You, Jimmy'

Wed, 06/24/2026 - 9:02am

Jimmy Fallon has invited a fair degree of scrutiny and viewer outcry after hosting controversial MMA fighter Conor McGregor on The Tonight Show.

Among the more outspoken critics of Fallon's decision was none other than '90s icon Christina Ricci, who voiced her displeasure towards The Tonight Show host by resharing an Instagram post shedding light on McGregor's past scandals (via CBC).

The post, which was originally shared by entrepreneur Adam McRae, specifically shared a graphic account of a woman who was allegedly assaulted by McGregor, calling for Fallon and the Tonight Show staff to do better when vetting their guests.

“Why the absolute f**k is this piece of human garbage being given a platform on Jimmy Fallon’s show?" the reshared post read. "Shame on you, Jimmy.” 

Despite his past controversies and scandals, McGregor has once again entered the public spotlight for his upcoming comeback fight at UFC 329 on July 11. At said event, the 37-year-old McGregor will fight his first MMA match in five years, taking on former UFC Featherweight Champion, Max Holloway.

During the course of his Tonight Show interview, McGregor and Fallon discussed a variety of topics, ranging from rowdy bar stories, McGregor's four children as well as his well-known "Notorious" nickname.

However, nowhere in the interview did the topic of McGregor's tumultuous personal life come up, sparking outrage among longtime fans of Fallon and The Tonight Show.

"As an Irish person who has been watching Fallon for many years now and always loved him, I won't be watching him anymore," one fan wrote on a clip from the show shared on YouTube. "I'm absolutely disgusted and sickened to the pit of my stomach that you would have this despicable monster on your show. I can't fathom how anyone thought having this vile, total embarrassment, to Ireland on the show was a good idea."

A rep for Fallon did not immediately respond to Parade's request for comment.

How To Do a Soft Glam Makeup Look Over 40, According to Celebrity Makeup Artists

Wed, 06/24/2026 - 8:59am

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If you've ever watched a beauty tutorial and thought the end result was either too heavy or not polished enough, soft glam makeup may be worth trying. It's a happy medium between a no-makeup makeup look and full glam.

"Soft glam is polished makeup with softened edges," celebrity makeup artist Christian Briceno, who has worked with Laura Donnelly and Marval Rex, tells Parade. "The complexion looks refined but still believable, the eyes have definition without feeling heavy, and the color on the cheeks and lips appears blended into the face rather than sitting on top of it."

Celebrity makeup artist Renée Loiz describes it simply as "polished and elevated, but still looks like you."

For women over 40, that balance is particularly appealing. Heavy coverage, severe lines and very matte textures can work against mature skin. Soft glam takes a more subtle approach, highlighting the features while still showing natural texture and expressions. The result is that "the person is still the first thing you notice," Briceno says.

We asked both experts to walk us through how to achieve soft glam step by step—from skincare prep to the finishing mist.

Related: 7 Most Flattering Makeup Looks for Mature Skin, According to Celebrity Makeup Artists

What Is Soft Glam Makeup?

Soft glam uses many of the same techniques as full glam, but with more restraint. "Full glam relies on greater intensity: more coverage, stronger contour, sharper liner, heavier lashes and a clearer distinction between each feature," Briceno tells Parade. "Soft glam uses many of the same techniques, but the transitions are more seamless and the overall contrast is lower."

"The focus is on radiant skin, soft definition, blended eyeshadow and flattering color rather than dramatic contouring or heavy coverage," Loiz adds. "Full glam tends to be more sculpted and high impact, while soft glam is about enhancing your features in a way that feels effortless and timeless."

Related: 12 Best Waterproof Mascaras To Avoid Smudging and Running, Tested by Makeup Artists

What Makes Soft Glam Makeup Different for Women Over 40?

Both experts agree that soft glam is particularly well-suited to mature skin because as skin matures, "heavy makeup can sometimes emphasize texture and fine lines," Loiz says, adding, "Soft glam keeps the complexion fresh, luminous and lifted while still feeling polished."

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How To Do a Soft Glam Base for Mature Skin

Prep is where soft glam starts, and both experts emphasize that what goes on before foundation matters as much as the foundation itself.

"I focus on hydration first with skincare that plumps and smooths the skin," Loiz says. "Mature skin responds best when it's well moisturized because makeup sits more naturally and doesn't cling to dry patches or texture."

Briceno usually starts with a lightweight hydrating serum, then a moisturizer that he allows to absorb for a few minutes. "The skin should feel supple, not slippery," he says. "Too much skincare can cause foundation to separate or collect around pores and fine lines."

He also treats primer as a targeted product rather than a base coat, explaining, "A smoothing formula can help where pores are more visible, while a hydrating primer may benefit drier areas. Most faces do not need the same primer everywhere."

For foundation, both experts steer away from heavy, matte formulas. "I generally look for a lightweight liquid or serum foundation with a natural satin finish," Briceno says. "I prefer sheer-to-medium coverage placed where it is actually needed."

Loiz recommends MPH Beauty Le Skin Foundation for coverage that still looks natural, or MAKE Beauty Diffusion Dew Skin Tint for a more skin-like result. "The skin should still look like skin," she stresses.

Under-eye concealer requires the lightest touch. "Use less concealer than you think you need," Briceno says. He places it directly over the darkness—usually near the inner corner—rather than covering the entire area.

Related: 7 Foundation Tips for Mature Skin That Actually Work, According to a Celebrity Makeup Artist

The Best Eye Makeup for Soft Glam Over 40

For eyes, both experts favor soft definition over drama—with a few key placement techniques that make a real difference on mature lids.

"For shadow, I use matte or satin neutrals to shape the eye," Briceno says. "I keep the deepest tone near the lash line and place some color slightly above the natural crease so it remains visible when the eyes are open. Taupe, rose-brown, muted bronze, plum and soft brown create depth without looking severe."

Loiz likes to use an eyeshadow stick, explaining, "It gives effortless color and blends beautifully."

On liner, both experts recommend brown over black. "I prefer a pencil pressed into the roots of the lashes and gently diffused rather than a very crisp liquid line," Briceno says, adding that placement matters as much as product.

"I often map the shadow while the eyes are open," Briceno explains. "I avoid dragging a dark shadow downward at the outer corner—instead I direct the blend slightly outward and upward to give the eye a more open shape."

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How To Apply Blush and Bronzer for Soft Glam Over 40

Both experts use blush and bronzer to add warmth and lift rather than obvious contour. "Bronzer should never read as a stripe," Briceno says. "I place it lightly around the temples, across the upper cheek area, and along the outer perimeter of the face. Taking it too low beneath the cheekbone can make the face look hollow rather than sculpted."

Loiz uses the PUR Bronzer Stick for warmth and dimension "without looking muddy."

Both experts prefer creamy formulas for blush and bronzer. "Cream blush and bronzer are useful on mature complexions because they can be blended gradually and adjusted before they set," Briceno tells Parade. "They tend to create a more seamless transition between the complexion and the color."

Loiz agrees, explaining, "Cream formulas move with the skin, while powder can settle into fine lines and texture."

As far as blush placement, Briceno applies it slightly higher on the cheek and blends toward the temple. Loiz likes Rare Beauty Liquid Blush, sharing, "It blends beautifully into the skin and gives a natural flush."

Related: 58-Year-Old Beauty Creator Who’s Tried Over 20 Foundations in the Last Year Reveals Her 2 ‘Current Favorites’

The Best Lip Colors for Soft Glam Over 40

On lips, both experts favor hydrating finishes and colors that work with natural undertones. "Rose, pink-beige, caramel, warm nude, muted coral, berry and soft plum can all be flattering," Briceno says. "Undertone and natural lip color matter more than age."

He gravitates toward satin, balm-like and softly glossy finishes, sharing, "Very dry matte lipstick can emphasize lines, while a nude that is too pale may flatten the entire face."

Loiz's favorites include Fenty Beauty Lip Oil Gloss and NARS Cream Lipsticks. She recommends a lip pencil close to the natural lip tone, blended inward before adding color for definition without a hard border.

Related:The Best Lip Color for You—According to Your Undertone (It’s Simpler Than You Think)

The Most Common Soft Glam Mistakes Women Over 40 Make

The biggest mistake, both experts agree, is using too much product—particularly powder. "A common mistake is adding more makeup to hide texture. In reality, the extra layers often make that texture more visible," Briceno warns.

Loiz agrees too much powder will ruin the look, explaining, "Soft glam should feel fresh and luminous, so I always use powder strategically rather than all over the face."

Briceno says to be wary of foundation that is too matte and to avoid covering the entire under-eye area with concealer. Other common makeup mistakes include making brows or eyeliner excessively dark.

Briceno also notes that soft glam shouldn't mean colorless, explaining, "The face still needs contrast. The softness should come from the edges, finishes and transitions—not from removing all definition."

How To Make Soft Glam Last Longer on Mature Skin

"Longevity comes from controlled layering rather than applying more product," Briceno says. He powders only where makeup tends to break down—around the nose, through the center of the forehead and beneath the eyes—leaving other areas less powdered to keep the complexion from going flat.

He also recommends layering textures, explaining, "A small amount of powder blush over cream blush helps the color last. Pencil beneath eyeshadow strengthens liner, and lip pencil under lipstick or tint keeps the lip color more even."

He finishes with a fine setting mist.

Loiz's secret weapon is hydration throughout. "I love using the d'Alba White Truffle First Spray Serum during the makeup process to keep the skin looking fresh, then lock everything in with Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray," she says. "It helps makeup last without taking away the glow."

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UFC Fighter Josh Hokit Claims His Controversial Michelle Obama Comment Was Actually 'a Compliment' — Here's What He Said

Wed, 06/24/2026 - 8:54am

Heavyweight fighter Josh Hokit sparked a major backlash following his win over Derrick Lewis at the UFC Freedom 250 event. During a post-fight interview with Joe Rogan, Hokit fired off an unexpected insult, telling the audience, “Michelle Obama is a man, am I right, America?” 

While Rogan did not immediately address Hokit’s strange slur, UFC CEO Dana White did issue a statement after the incident, telling TIME, “I understand that the Obamas are public figures, but I’m completely against saying nasty and false things about people’s families.” He added, “Everyone knows my position on free speech, but I hate this kind of nonsense.” 

WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 14: Josh Hokit celebrates a win against Derrick Lewis in a heavyweight fight during the UFC Freedom 250 event on the South Lawn at the White House on June 14, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC) Getty Images

Hokit has kept quiet on the matter until recently. On Tuesday, the UFC fighter opened up on ‘The Ariel Helwani Show’ podcast, seemingly justifying the Michelle Obama comment, explaining, “I thought I was giving her a compliment.” As Helwani responded with, “I don’t think anyone viewed it…” Hokit cut in, adding, “Michelle Obama being a man that’s like she knows how to deal with adversity, you know, she knows how to work hard like a man. You know, when the times get tough, you know…”

Helwani then asks the fighter, “Why even go there?” Which is the question on everyone’s mind. Why bring up the former FLOTUS immediately after winning a UFC match on the White House lawn? Well, Hokit has an answer.

“I thought it was a perfect opportunity to, you know, show the world how great this country is with uh, the freedom of speech. You know, you go somewhere, and you say something like that, and you die, you know. And I’m not suicidal, by the way. Um, you know, I’m in good spirits.”

Hokit continued, reiterating his freedom of speech claims, “In other parts of the world, you say something like that, and you’re not here to speak to Ariel Helwani, you know. So um, yeah, I don’t know. There’s a few answers to that, you know, and there’s a certain side that pokes at another side; there’s no outrage there, and so I thought it was a perfect time to take a jab.” 

Even though he’s already flip-flopped from it being a compliment to wanting to put free speech in the spotlight to it being a jab in jest, Hokit isn’t apologizing for his statement. Helwani asks the fighter if he regrets saying it, and Josh responds, “Oh, never,” adding, “You’ll never hear me backtrack from what I say.” 

As to whether he cares about the backlash, Hokit told Helwani, “At the end of the day, I don’t care.” He goes on to explain that while he has no intention of angering people like Dana White, “You know, I’m here to make a splash and I’m here to back up my words as well, so if anybody feels some type of way, they know where to find me.” 

Country Star Announces New Album 20 Years After Beginning Career

Wed, 06/24/2026 - 8:54am

Country music star Carly Pearce is marking two decades since she began performing by announcing her fifth studio album, Honest Woman

The 16-track project arrives on Aug. 28 via BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville and finds the Grammy-winning artist returning to the classic country and bluegrass sounds that first inspired her musical journey.

The album announcement comes as Pearce reflects on her roots and the path that led her from performing bluegrass music as a teenager to becoming one of country music’s most celebrated modern voices. 

Alongside the album reveal, she released a new song titled “She Don’t,” giving fans another preview of what to expect from the upcoming record.

Carly Pearce performs during day three of 2026 CMA Fest at Nissan Stadium on June 06, 2026 in Nashville, Tennessee.

Photo by Terry Wyatt/WireImage

“When I started making Honest Woman, I found myself rediscovering who I am and why I wanted to be a country music singer in the first place,” says Pearce, according to Music Row. “This album takes me back to the beginning of my story, where the sounds of classic country and bluegrass music shaped who I am. I’m so proud of this body of work, and I truly feel like it’s my best yet.”

The new collection features collaborations with Riley Green, Dan Tyminski and Molly Tuttle. Produced by Ben West, the album combines traditional influences with the storytelling style that has become a signature part of Pearce’s career.

Pearce has long balanced contemporary country music with the bluegrass influences she grew up loving. According to the singer, Honest Woman serves as a return to the sounds that first made her want to pursue a career in country music.

The Kentucky native first gained widespread attention in 2017 with her breakthrough hit “Every Little Thing.” Since then, she has earned multiple major awards, including a Grammy Award, Country Music Association Awards and Academy of Country Music Awards. She also became a member of the Grand Ole Opry in 2021.

In a separate message shared about the album, Pearce described the project as deeply personal.

“Sometimes finding yourself means finding your way back home. For me, it meant coming home…to my truth, my story, and the woman I am at my core. These songs tell that story. They hold pieces of my heart, where I come from, and the journey that brought me here. I’m so proud of this album and I can’t wait to share it with you.”

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The album includes previously released songs “Dream Come True,” “Church Girl,” “You Can Have Him” and “If I Don’t Leave I’m Gonna Stay,” her collaboration with Riley Green that continues to climb country music charts.

Other tracks include “WWJD,” “Same Circus,” “Happy For Myself,” “He Don’t Like My Dogs,” “Who’s Lying Here” and “Why God Why Me.”

To celebrate the album launch, Pearce will embark on a series of special two-night residencies across North America under the banner Honest Woman: Up Close.

The intimate run begins Sept. 10 with two nights in Detroit before heading to Chicago, Minneapolis, Los Angeles, Toronto, Boston and New York City. Rising artist Belle Frantz will join as support throughout the tour.

Fans will get an opportunity to hear new material from the album in a live setting shortly after its release. Public ticket sales begin Friday following an early fan club presale.

The announcement follows a productive period for Pearce, who has continued building on the momentum of recent projects while embracing a more traditional country and bluegrass direction. 

As anticipation builds for the Aug. 28 release, Pearce’s latest project offers both a look back at her beginnings and a fresh collection of songs that reflect where she stands today.

Related: Country Star's Hit Song Reaches Major Milestone Despite Never Reaching No. 1

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